《Surviving in my Own Unpublished Failed Novel》 Chapter 1 Prologue: Emergence The existence of Towers, Dungeons, System, and Constetions¡­ one of the overused genres a person could read in modern world literature... where there were Towers that appeared suddenly one day, and everyone was granted a System from an unknown origin alongside the appearance of mysterious Towers and Dungeons that gives a person various rewards upon its raidpletion otherwise death, and the myths of humanity which are called Constetions or simply put, ''Gods and Demons'' that have absolute ''Authority'' within their holy or unholy domain became the reality as one might think that they were just a product of human imaginations through countless eons of adaptation and delusions and yet¡­ ... Date: July 19, 2022 - Ding! [Astronomical Event!] [Emergence of Races] [The Constetions of the Great Realms have decided to move the different races from different habitables across the Great Universe to 342! The Constetion, ''Earth''s Mirror Image'' had stretched the 342 or Earth like a dough! Newnds of various climates and bodies of water will begin to bloom in this world. Temporary Universal Warps have been set randomly in different coordinates to be opened across the world. The Constetion, ''Warper of Space'' had warped multitudes of different races on Earth! Races from other worlds have arrived, scattered randomly in their new world! The new races will now adapt to the Earth''s atmosphere and will cause the "Mana" to be consolidated in the said world.] ... The date when a cataclysmic event called "Emergence of Races" shocked humanity as thendscapes and bodies of water stretched in and out like dough through an unknown force. The Earth became seven times its original diameter, and unknownnds, mountains, forests, and bodies of water suddenly sprouted out of nowhere that caused an earthquake that broke the number of the seismic scale, thought to be an extinction event where the human poption had been stripped down to three billion people where almost 5 billion died with the incident dubbed as the "Forlorn of Humanity" where normal order instantly crumbled. This event caused the seven continents of the to bebined into one, destroying the normal climate, and turning everything into chaos. Great confusion and fear plunged the people''s minds that day. ... Date: July 21, 2022 Two days after the unknown disaster struck the human world. - Ding! [For the natural inhabitants of the said world called 342" or Earth, Status Window and System will be granted to adapt to the new conditions unknown to them, and Towers and Dungeons will open and be formed respectively! General information about the Status Window, the System, and many more will be announced seven days from now!] The message from the System informed the whole of humanity as the new species that was plunged onto a fantasy-like world all of a sudden. People who y games and read fantasy novels as a hobby at that time had at least a general idea of what the Status Window and the System were unlike the people who were not so engaged in the said game-like element and novel genres. ... Date: July 28, 2022 - Ding! [Announcement for the whole of humanity!] Here is the general information regarding the Status Window and System! PLAYER - You will be called a ''yer'' from this moment onwards. STATUS WINDOW - You can check your own "Status Window" by saying it verbally or through your mind. - Status Window provides you the information about yourself, here is an example of the Status Window: STATUS WINDOW Name: XXX YYY Race: H Title: ??? Health Points: XX Mana Points: YY Stamina Points: XY Age: XX Years Old (Earth Years) Sex: Male/Female Height: X Rank: ??? Profession/s: ??? Constetion: ??? ¨C STATS: Strength: ??? Dexterity: ??? Constitution: ??? Agility: ??? Vitality: ??? Perception: ??? Willpower: ??? Tenacity: ??? Charm: ??? Luck: ??? Magic Power: ??? Divine Power: [Can only be unlocked if the contracted Constetion is a Neutral or Divine Constetion] Evil Power: [Can only be unlocked if the contracted Constetion is an Evil Constetion] ¨C Unique Skill ??? ¨C Skills: ??? ¨C Trait: ??? ¨C Authority: ??? [There are three types of Status Window; first, the Simplified which only shows general information such as name, race, profession, and Constetion; second, the Standard which shows what''s written above, andstly, the third, the Detailed which shows the average Growth Rate of the ''yer'' as well as other information that might be helpful, depending on one''s circumstances.] SYSTEM The one that provides information regarding different circumstances. The functionality of the System sometimes depends on the person''s rank ranging from F- to SSS+ HUMAN REALM RANKING LIST ording to the SYSTEM: F-, F, F+ E-, E, E+ D-, D, D+ C-, C, C+ B-, B, B+ A-, A, A+ S-, S, S+ SS-, SS, SS+ SSS-, SSS, SSS+ F- being the lowest, and SSS+ being the highest. Some even theorize that there is beyond the SSS+, but no known human has ever achieved such a feat. CONSTELLATIONS: "Gods or Demons that we thought as Myth, and gods or demons never known by the human mind until they were mentioned in the System" There are good, evil, and neutral gods that oversee humanity and the other races that started to live with us during the Emergence of Races. Authority is given by a Constetion TOWERS: Gigantic Towers appeared out of nowhere during the Emergence of Races. There is no exact number of Towers known as the modern satellites during the Emergence were all destroyed due to Earth''s size, getting wider. DUNGEONS: It can be found inside the Towers where monsters of Chaos reside, but there are also dungeons outside the Tower, hence the existence of dungeon core, without it the dungeon outside will be automatically closed. CHAOS MIASMA No known information aside from the System telling a yer, "You have killed a monster with abundant Chaos miasma" when a yer kills a monster from a Dungeon. ... Date: May 07, 2062 An average-looking man with deep ck hair, deep blue eyes, a height of at least 170 cm, and a type of body that was not thin, but not thick either was lying on a single bed perpendicr to a gray,fortable, long couch that could at least fit five people in sitting position and a small yellow-brown study desk intersecting them. The man closed the book he was holding which was called, ''Encyclopedia of the Emergence'' that was written by a renowned someone called, ''Emmanuel Lyncoster'' ¡ª a schr and researcher, that was contracted with the Constetion [One Who Oversees the Past]. Due to his contracted Constetion, specifically the Authority that''s given to him which was called ''Backward irvoyance'', he could passively memorize all of the information that the System had shown him, especially major announcements that concerned humanity. For some reason, System messages that concern the world or the entirety of humanity cannot be browsed again after some time after its announcement, that''s when Emmanuel''s Authorityes in. It was the notion of most people who didn''t know Emmanuel Lyncoster personally, but the ''Backward irvoyance'' could let him sneak and observe the past of a person, vividly at that as if it was another reality, thanks to the divine authority that was granted to him. ... The man with deep ck hair and deep blue eyes put the book written by Emmanuel Lyncoster beside him, atop the study desk. Then after a few seconds, he muttered... "Status Window" Russell Moon Race: Human Title: None Health Points (HP): 200 Mana Points (MP): 90 Stamina Points (SP): 150 Age: 16 (Earth Years) Sex: Male Height: 170 cm Rank: F Profession: Summoner, Swordsman, and Reaper Constetion: None ¨C STATS: Strength: 15 Dexterity: 14 Constitution: 15 Agility: 12 (+4) Vitality: 15 (+5) Willpower: 11 Tenacity: 11 Charm: 7 Luck: 7 Magic Power: 9 ¨C Unique Skill: NONE ¨C Skills: Summon Creature (Lvl. 0) Rank: F- Cost: 10 MP - Summons a creature you have once defeated - The summoned creature will have an additional all stats + 1 Creatures that you can summon: 1. Slime Cost: 1 MP per minute to retain the summon - A fluid-like creature that is considered the weakest, it is very flexible. Basic Swordsmanship (Passive) (Lvl. 0) Rank: F- - You can perform the basics of swordsmanship which does not make you stronger, so never hope that you can survive a dungeon with only this. Basic Scythemanship (Passive) (Lvl. 0) Rank: F- - You can perform the basics of scythemanship which does not make you stronger, so never hope that it can defend you in grave danger, this can even kill you if you are careless by identally culling yourself. ¨C Trait: NONE ¨C Authority: NONE ... "Sigh¡­" A sigh escaped from Russell''s mouth as he read his Status Window because he was reminded of how trash he was based on his stats. Also, as if the System was mocking him with the description of his Basic Swordsmanship and Basic Scythemanship, causing him to let out a self-deprecating chuckle. Russell then stood up from his bed, stretching out his arms as he yawned, looking around the room where he was right now. A room where the living and bedroom werebined into one, a simple kitchen and bath. No food stocks were stored in the mini refrigerator and no notable pieces of furniture could be found aside from a 16-inch rectangr television with its four sides colored in ck and a wall clock sticking itself in the wall just above the television as if the two were partners in materialism. ''If I''m not used to this, I''d probablyin by now.'' After stretching for a few seconds, he took some clothes and a towel from a small cab, a meter away from the television''s left side before taking a bath. "At least I know many things that others probably don''t." Russell randomly mumbled, recalling again his trash stats as he walked into the bath with an expression of contemtion. ... After doing some grocery of ready-to-eat meals, he quickly shut the door and got back to his seat where twoputer monitors were brightly on that seemingly do not rest. "Yes! That''s 100k USD baby!" A heterochromatic man with deep ck hair and a thin build shouted in his bedroom inside his very own apartment, prompting him to stand up from where he was sitting just now. He just made a hundred thousand dors from shorting the stocks of S.S. Pharmaceuticalpany, though it may not be that big from the super-rich people''s perspective, as a hardworking person in regards to stocks or investing, it was a fine sum that would help him for a few months. Ding-! Ding-! An endless notification from one of the monitors stopped the man from celebrating what he just earned and prompted him to take a seat and look into it. Click-! Click-! JustYourReader: [Yo! When are you going to release your novel? I can''t wait to read it!] YouWannap?!: [Da hell! Why can''t you just wait?] [Message¡­] ... The heterochromatic man was a novel writer or at least aspiring to be one, and those messages were from a forum where different writers and readers gathered to publish and read novels respectively. Aside from doing stocks or investment, the man just got the urge to write a novel, though he was not confident in writing one as he considered this as a past time when waiting for stock results sometimes, in the span of three years, he managed to finish his first novel called [The Forgotten Swordsman of Ruined Star], but it seems like a twisted fate as he was on his way to go to the publishingpany that he had talks with prior, an unfortunate ident happened where he saved an old woman crossing the pedestrianne from an iing supercar at that and died at the age of 33 years old. ... Russel Moon was snapped out of his thoughts, sending his senses into reality as he looked in the mirror, seeing his reflection where he saw his wet, deep ck hair as he just finished taking a bath, deep blue eyes that seemed like they contained the deepness of an ocean and highness of the cloudless skies. Yes, he was reincarnated as an unknown character inside his novel that he didn''t manage to publish. That also means that he has the knowledge of the future, and easter egg-like scenarios that he can utilize that might hardly affect the main story. These easter egg-like scenarios were scenes in the novel he have written that did not have an borate exnation for it, but catches the main function or purpose of it; also some items, skills, unique skill and trait that can be acquired, and great authority that was forgotten in the novel¡­ that he can utilize. "Sweet¡­" Russell muttered,bing his wet, deep ck hair. +++ [Author''s Note] Thank you, Reader, if you started my "first" book. I hope you read the two reminders before reading Chapter 1. Enjoy the story along the way! Chapter 2 Preparation There were less than four weeks left remaining until the start of the academy sses and it''s been two weeks since he started residing in one of the dormitories provided by the Obelisk Academy. - After passing the exam, it is advisable to live in the dorms before the start of sses so that you can familiarize yourself with the academy, and maybe make friends in the early stage of being a student. ''Make friends huh¡­'' He muttered inwardly, remembering something poignantly. A sense of nostalgia enveloped his mind as he recalled the words of the Vice-Chancellor of the academy as he flipped the pages of the School Guidebook provided by the academy. Obelisk Academy ¨C An academy where renowned yers went, and the number one ''yer Academy'' in the human domain that guarantees the best education and facilities to help the students'' growth. ¨C It''s been 36 years since the foundation of the Obelisk Academy, just four years after the event [Emergence of Races] or dubbed as the "Emergence". ¨C The reason for its early foundation was to quickly adapt to the new lifestyle that has been forced upon everyone and establish a working government that crumbled 40 years ago. This one goal has already been achieved and one of the pieces of evidence was the Obelisk Academy itself. ... Russell put down the School Guidebook on the study desk bordering the long,fortable couch and his bed. Then, after he wore some clothes, he sat on the couch ¡ª his hands on the back of his head, looking at the white ceiling for some time. After deliberating for his next course of action for two to three minutes ¡ª letting his wet deep ck hair dry ¡ª he left the dormitory with the Room number, ''393''. He was wearing in ck pants, a blue t-shirt with the Obelisk Academy''s logo on its back that looked like exactly an ''Obelisk within a Massive Star'' that seemed to shine above all else, and his in gray-colored hooded jacket. He took what he needed for his quite a long journey such as a ''smartwatch'' ¡ª a multifunctional watch that was born within almost four decades of humanity''s desire to thrive. Because technology advanced so much with the help of various discoveries and research, many innovations were realized. Then he checked his pocket money given to him by his parents a few weeks ago beforeing to the academy. The currency in this world ¡ª after the world was reshaped that destroyed almost everything including countless cultures and economies ¡ª was now different and called Obel or short for O. The word Obel came from the word, ''Obelisk'' as humanity began to thrive more after falling into partial destruction. It let them remember that they could dream of reaching higher and greater heights even after being thrown into indescribable ruin, with the help of the System and Constetions, thus, Obel became the unified currency of humanity as per the Strongest yers decision that founded the Obelisk Organization, a central force of yers, where decisions that concerns the entirety of the human race were initially and confidentially discussed. ... "Oi, is it that weirdo?" "Huh? What are you talking about?" "Oh! That in-looking guy. Haha!" "Even some bullies avoid him. Hahaha!" Whisper¡­ Whisper... Russell stopped his train of thought as he heard some not-so-whispering students. As though been heard by other people, stares being directed at him multiplied, but he was used to it. He felt like he was the only one who hadn''t made friends in two weeks since he moved here, it was not like he was looking for friends though, and even the sses have not started yet. It seemed like he had been already tagged as a ''weirdo'', not that he cared about it. Although making friends orpanions or whatever one can call it was advantageous in the long run, he does not need it right now. ... He passed by the two A- rank guards standing at either side of the entrance of the dorm he was in, they were not strict with the students as long as one identified himself with his ID, but there was a dorm, where even meeting a student there requires an appointment, dorm where the bigshots or regarded as talented and the best of the first year resides: Rigel Building. A few minutes of walking from the entrance of the academy would be the Red Star Air Train Station which boasted a quick journey to one''s destination because it runs 500 miles per hour, a product of magic engineering as it runs using magic stones or monster cores that have been acquired from monster corpses yed by the yers. "I''m d I turned 16..." Russell muttered softly, walking on the sidewalk where numerous people doing their own business. A person must meet some requirements to be able to ride an Air Train, and one of them was that the person must be sixteen years old or older. ... ¨C Red Star Station, Obelisk City, Central Olympia Sitting on one of the passenger seats, he rested his right elbow by the Air Train''s window, thinking about various things. ''I need to utilize what I know... The future events, as well as hidden items that will barely affect the plotline...'' As Russell thought of that, he suddenly felt ashamed of how he wrote his novel in his previous life which he didn''t even manage to publish. || The seed of... can be found in Armageddon Mountain where he went on a journey during their school trip... || It was the lines from his unpublished novel, and the problem with it was that as an aspiring author, he never mentioned again what happened to the seed of... Which he considered in this life as ''Untouched Elements'' or something in his novel he didn''t get thoroughly into expounding. ''F*ck, when I think about it, it''s really a trash novel.'' Russellmpooned inwardly before a smile of excitement draws on his face as the sound of a woman reverberated in the Air Train, telling the passengers to buckle up. It snapped him out of his thoughts, sending him back to reality, and ending his little reverie. ''It''s been quite a few times since I''ve seen an Air Train, but it still mesmerized me. Whoo, the feeling of the first time sure hits differently.'' He admired the Air Train which technically lives up to its name as it was literally hovering in the air over its tracks. It was the product of Magic Neo-Mechanical Engineering which was powered by Magic Stones or Monster Core. ''But nothing more than traveling through Portal is more astonishing.'' Looking on the right side by the window, Russell saw the towering buildings of the Obelisk City, the more advanced, but not too futuristic setting he wrote in his unpublished novel was entering his deep blue eyes, seemingly sinking him into awe. "This is the reality I''ve written." Russell mumbled softly, continuing to admire the urban scenery while knowing deep down at the back of his mind that reincarnating in this world also meant that it was not the exact reality that he knew from his unpublished novel. ... ¡ª Starlight Station, Northern Olympia After leaving the Air Train from Red Star Station, Russell arrived at the Starlight Station of the Northern Olympia after an hour. Although the distance was almost at least a thousand meters, due to Air Trains'' engineering, it could traverse its tracks at high-speed, faster than the Bullet Train of Japan of the ''Old World'' that was buried in history after the Emergence. Russell''s intent ining to this ce was to purchase necessities he needed in his arduous journey to acquire a monstrous ''something'' that could be detrimental to the main plot of the unpublished novel he had written. ''It''s not like I care too much about it.'' He randomly thought as he took his pace to find the necessary store for his needs. Being reincarnated for 16 years with a 33-year-old mentality, maybe more if he added his age in this world, but it wasn''t quite right in his perspective for some reason, though it made his bearing appear more mature, and looked like someone heavily misunderstood for being aloof. Russell saw the borated world, unlike his unpublished novel which, he knew, had many unexplored and unexined elements. Due to this reason, he believed that this world, even though he might unintentionally make minor changes, wouldn''t ruin the main plot of the story. ''I won''t meddle too much... as long as my family isn''t harmed in any way.'' He stopped his train of thought after a few minutes of walking as he arrived at the front of the ssy door with a digital signboard that read: "yer General Store" The "yer General Store" sells a variety of necessities for yers that asionally raid Strayed Dungeons or Dungeon Towers avable for public use. Necessities like different kinds of potions, misceneous, extra weapons or armor, and so on, but when ites to Skillbooks, Artifacts, or High-Grade Weapon or Armor, one needed to go in specialized stores rather than the general ones. ... Clink-! Clink-! Clink-! As one of the yers opened the ssy door, it was apanied by the sound of chimes just hanging above it. Russell went inside along with the other yers who needed something for their journey. After scurrying for some time, he saw the section for potions and misceneous or general goods, he then went to these specific sections and picked up the following: Dimensional Water Bottle (30L) Portable Tent Ready-To-Eat Beef Jerky (with Lowest Mana) Lowest-Grade Health Potion (3) Lowest-Grade Mana Potion (3) Lowest-Grade Stamina Potion (2) Lowest-Grade Agility Potion (1) Lowest-Grade Invisibility Potion (1) ... "That will be 5,750 Obel, Sir." Russell looked at the holographic screen where the prices of the products he has to pay were shown. The Lowest-Grade Potion, regardless of its type was only at 300 Obel, making it a total of 3,000 O as he purchased 10 potions of various types, while the Portable Tent cost 750 O, the Dimensional Water Bottle (30L) cost 1,000, and a thousand O worth of food. After paying the payment, he heard the energetic voice of the salesclerk, a woman with auburn, waist-length hair if it''s not in a ponytail, monolid, sapphire eyes, button nose, voluptuous body with fair-colored skin, and a height of at least 170 cm. "Thank you for your purchase!" Russell nodded in response before he unintentionally nced at the salesclerk''s chest... then he saw a namete attached to her top left salesclerk attire, just below her corbone. ''Maya...?'' He inwardly thought as his senses seemed to be out of reality for a moment before he slightly flinched, a barely noticeable reaction. He then looked again at Maya''s fair-skinned, gorgeous face like a creep as he recalled one of the extra characters... that''s barely mentioned in his unpublished novel. ''...This woman will massacre an entire guild on her own in the future.'' ... || Blood spilled everywhere in the office of the Shadow Guild where several renowned individuals'' heads flew everywhere in the blink of an eye, with just a twinkling of a star, as Maya was sitting on the Shadow Guild''s Guild Master''s seat with her legs crossed up on the table with an indifferent look on her face || Russell thought of the lines in his unpublished novel if he didn''t remember incorrectly. ''...So, this is how she looks like in reality... beautiful, but dangerous, at least in the future.'' "Hello? Do you need anything more, Sir?" His thoughts were cut off by Maya''s words, who was seemingly not minding that he was staring at her face as though he was being reminded of a loved one''s face through her. "A-ah? Yes... I want to buy a sword." He replied casually afterposing himself, but he felt awkward inside through his actions. "...Sword? Do you have a yer License, Sir?" A "yer License" was given to those who passed the yer Examination that could be taken at the Obelisk yer Association under the authority of the Obelisk Organization. "...Uhmm, I don''t, but I am an Obelisk Student." Russell showed his Obelisk ID to Maya, who checked its authenticity. ... Obelisk ID DATE ISSUED: May 01, 2062 Name: Russell Moon STUDENT NUMBER: A11-033-2062 Age: 16 RANK: F Year: First Year ¨C A11 ... Aside from the yer License, being a student of the Obelisk Academy gives Russell the right to purchase a weapon. The Obelisk ID was an Orion-recognized identification and has multipurpose aside from identifying oneself. It could act as a yer License, but with restrictions, and also as a Bank ount through affiliated financial-rted departments of the Obelisk Organization. Although it acts as a yer License in a way, this didn''t mean that a yer from Obelisk Academy shouldn''t acquire a yer License after they graduated from the academy, it also didn''t mean that a yer License could only be acquired by Obelisk students, or graduates. "...Oh my, Sir Moon... Alright, may I ask the specifics of the sword you would be purchasing? Be minded that we only sell the lowest to low-grade weapons, and any higher quality must be purchased from specialized stores or cksmiths themselves." Maya exined in brief detail the avable weapons with a cheerful expression on her face. "I''ll take a shortsword with lightweight enchantment." Russell didn''t hesitate to say what he needed, prompting Maya to show him the list of the shortswords with lightweight enchantment. These weapons were stored inside the Dimensional Inventory of the Weapon Custodian of the yer General Store. Weapons weren''t on disy to avoid mishaps or any attempts of thievery. After an unknown period of time, Russell saw something affordable and told Maya that he would purchase it. Maya then went inside a room for authorized personnel and came out with a shortsword in her hand. "This will be 2,500 O, Sir Moon." Russell didn''t say anything as he paid for the sword. "...Thank you for your purchase, Sir!" He nodded in response to Maya''s diligence before he walked out of the line to give way to other customers, and inspected the shortsword he just purchased. ... [Crude Shortsword] ¨C A product made by a beginner cksmith. Rank: Normal ssification: Weapon Element Type: None Enchantment: ¨C Lowest-Grade Lightweight Effect: Reduces the weight of the sword by half of its original weight. Intrinsic Effect: None ... After leaving the yer General Store, he took his pace, with his slight mental breakdown due to the loss of finances, for the Red Star Air Train Station for his next destination which was the main focus of his journey: Armageddon Mountain. Chapter 3 Hidden Dungeon ¡ª Yellow Sun Station, Northernmost Olympia After at least an hour of sitting on the Red Star Air Train''sfortable seat that makes a person feel at home, Russell arrived from the Starlight Station of the Northern Olympia to the Yellow Sun Station of the Northernmost Olympia. Exiting the Air Train he had ridden, he looked around and saw the mountainous environment, not from afar. He was reminded of a certain, peaceful country in his previous life that he only saw through pictures on the inte. The only difference was the atmosphere this region gave off, although it''s rural, it possessed quite a futuristic-like vibes, but the mountain range seen from afar remains the same as nature should be ¡ª untouched or left by the human hands of ruin. His eyes darted around for some time, and after admiring the grandeur of the scenery of this region, he didn''t waste any more time as he started walking for his journey. As of this moment, although the afternoon Sun in the sky illuminated the surroundings as though there''s nothing that can be hidden, the cold winds of the region still permeate one''s skin. Russell opened the System''s Map as a holographic screen came into his view. ... [Map: Armageddon Mountain] ¨C A mountain range in the Northernmost Olympia, rich in pure Mana. ¨C Area: 787 kilometers across. ... "This is a very stretched-out mountain range..." He mumbled as he reached the foot of the mountain. He''s nowhere near the rural region of the Northernmost Olympia at this very moment, and after pondering for some time, recalling the direction where he could find ''that'' thing, he moved forward through the northwest of Armageddon Mountain while navigating the map with the System''s help. After walking from an unknown period of time, the darkness of night enveloped the afternoon as the world rotated, hiding the Sun in this particr region as it appeared in others while the bluish moon in the sky revealed itself along with the starry sky. Russell took out a disc-shaped metal from his Dimensional Inventory and press something like a button that was attached to its middle, he then threw it into the ground made of rich soil. After a few seconds, the disc-shaped metal transformed into a single-person tent, befitting his marital status. He recalled the System information of the Portable Tent, which has two illuminating magic circles of different structures engraved on two different sides, as hey downfortably while both his hands were on the back of his head, looking at the grandeur starry sky. ... [Portable Magic Tent] ¨C A magic tent that provides a little bit offort for an aspiring adventurer. Rank: F ssification: General Goods Enchantment: ¨C Lowest Light Magic Effect: Provides a bit of light just necessary for the night during an adventure. ¨C Lowest Heat Magic Effect: Provides a heat that was suitable enough to regte one''s body temperature. Intrinsic Effect: ¨C Portability Makes the tent portable for the adventurer''s convenience. ¨C Transparent Eye Makes the person inside the tent sees the outside as though the tent was transparent from the inside. ... Intrinsic Effect could be achieved for two reasons: What kind of ingredients were used to make something or how that something was made? While Enchantment was either provided by a certain profession, Enchanter, or a product of Magic Engineering. ... After some time, Russell sat on the ground, while he was still inside the Portable Tent, and took out the necessities he bought earlier; an opaque, blue, small bottle that contained an engraved small magic circle on its bottom, but it was not illuminating; and beef jerky which looked like normal food, but if one has a Mana sensitivity-rted skill, it would emit a miniscule amount of Mana through that person''s eyes. He then inspected it. ... [Dimensional Water Bottle] ¨C A product of magic engineering that provides convenience for one''s adventure. Rank: F ssification: General Goods Enchantment: ¨C Lowest Dimensional Storage Magic Effects: This makes the size of the bottle irrelevant as it could store up to 30L of water. Intrinsic Effect: None ... [Beef Jerky] ¨C Made for a quick way to satisfy one''s hunger. Rank: F- ssification: General Goods Enchantment: None Effects: None Intrinsic Effect: ¨C Lowest Mana It restores a bit of Mana Points upon consumption as this was cooked or processed by something rted to Mana. ... Russell ate some beef jerky, and gulped a mouthful of water, setting the indicator of the Dimensional Water Bottle''s volume to 15L. "What a world¡­" He muttered as he fell into a dazed with the night sky that seems to pierce his soul with its beauty, and unconsciously made him fall asleep after resting. ... Brrring-! Brrring-! The sound of the rm clock through his smartwatch invaded Russell''s ears for a few minutes before it managed to wake him up from his shut-eye. He stood up, stretched out his arms as a yawn escaped from his mouth, then he exercised before he ate his breakfast, the beef jerky. "It''s almost 8 hours..." He muttered as he checked the time when he woke up, andpared it to the time he fell asleep. After he finished the morning routine, he cleaned up the ce, organized his tent, and began to stride for his destination. "If I''m not wrong, it should be a few kilometers from here..." Russell muttered, continuing his stride in the northwest of Armageddon Mountain while asionally staring at the System''s Map. || The inconspicuous small trees that seem to be leaning against each other provide a mysterious view for the person who notices it. The trees formed an arc...|| It was the lines from his unpublished novel which referred to the entrance of the Hidden Dungeon where he''s going at this moment. Originally, the Hidden Dungeon was toe across by certain Obelisk students during exploration, but wouldn''t be able to discover it. That''s why Russell, the aspiring author of an unpublished novel, considered this as one of the "Untouched Elements". The more he delved into reality, the more he felt like he was being pped by the failed writing he did. "Should I be grateful that I got run over by a supercar and not manage to publish it?" Russell muttered along with a chuckle that turned into a smile as he recognized what he was looking for after an unknown period of walking had passed as the time reached twenty-eight to nine ¨C 28 minutes before 9 A.M. ... The System''s Map couldn''t provide the urate location of a Hidden Dungeon as it would cause imbnce among yers, finding themselves in a race to find one. Although that''s the case, Russell was pretty certain that he reached the right ce. He looked at the normal-looking, at least 15 meters small trees with a trunk width of a meter from the distance. If one looked closely, it would appear normal, but they were bent, facing each other, as though they were pulled together by a distorted gravitational force. A person could identally walk through it, but the tricky part that Russell provided in his unpublished novel was that it couldn''t be essed identally, which means that a person must either be aware of the Hidden Dungeon''s existence beforehand or noticed the peculiarity of the trees. "...Let''s check everything first." He muttered as he did a quick check of his Dimensional Inventory items, and though it''s a very far away location from the Northernmost region of Olympia, he still looked around to see if there were any stray people in the area, and he felt relieved when nothing checks out. Then, after taking two deep breaths, he walked through the space between the arching inconspicuous small trees. ... [You have discovered a Hidden Dungeon.] [The dungeon "Oldest Root of Yggdrasil" has been discovered.] The System messages appeared in front of Russell''s eyes after he stepped into the entrance and was warped in an unknown ce. Based on the dungeon''s name, it literally referred to the root of the World Tree, Yggdrasil of the Norse mythology, and with its age identifier, "Oldest", it only meant that this Hidden Dungeon existed prior to the creation of everything else in the world. Russell walked through the 7-meter hallway of the dungeon before he appeared in a 20-meter-in-diameter circr hall made of roots that were thicker than a gigantic tree branch, where a stone table altar was situated in the middle with nothing on it. The ceiling was also made of roots where strangely, a bit of moonlight, not sunlight passed through, providing him quite a vision. It''s nothing like a dungeon where monsters exist as silence seemed to ironically echo in his ears, but he didn''t let his guard down as he took out the Crude Shortsword (Normal) he bought in the yer General Store. He didn''t take out his weapon because he knew that there would be monsters or caretakers in this Hidden Dungeon, rather, he took it out because he wasn''t sure if there would be one. At this very moment, Russell has no knowledge of whatever''s inside of this ce aside from ''that'' thing that he needed to acquire. After a minute or two of observing everything, he began his search. ... Ding-! A notification sounded in Russell''s ears just a minute after he began his search, prompting him to stop scurrying around and quickly nce at the System message. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', observes your very being.] The unexpected System message caused his body to tremble in fear, his weapon left his left hand as a ng reverberated in the dungeon. It''s an instinctive reaction the moment the System message was cognitively registered. ''C-calm down... c-calm d-down...'' He repeatedly told himself, but he felt like he was going to faint at this moment. Russell knew exactly the identity of the Constetion that was observing him, he then tried topose himself, forgetting the weapon on the ground, he quickly search for the ''thing'' that he was aiming for with his trembling hands and knees. He needed ''that'' thing to provide him with great help to be stronger, to survive the future that he knew... If that future wouldn''t divert from the original story of his unpublished novel. If some things, by any chance, diverted from what he knew, it would either be for good or mostly for worst. ... ''F*ck... F*ck! Where is it?!'' [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' asks about your identity.] "Russell Moon." In a hurry and panic state, he replied without thinking after he skimmed through the System message. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', constricted "Her" cosmic eyes, while feeling shocked by your behavior.] [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', asks why and how you are here.] "What...?" As though a bucket of cold water from the Southernmost Orion was poured into his whole body, he realized what he just did, a certain kind of pressure was added to him. ''It''s do or die...'' Russell inwardly said, mustering up the courage as he felt that he could converse with the Constetion that was observing him right now. "...I-I apologize for my impertinent behavior. A-and I came looking for a seed..." He didn''t say how he got here as it would sound mental if he said that he came here because of a novel. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', looks at you suspiciously.] After reading the System message, he suddenly prostrated down, feeling goosebumps all over his body, and his heart thumps faster as though he has overdosed with caffeine. ''...A-ah, sh*t, sh*t! I-I''m going to die.'' Russell''s thoughts were already clouded by death. He never anticipated or ounted for the presence of the Constetion as he didn''t borate or had written thorough details about the Hidden Dungeon. If he dies at this moment, he didn''t know whether tough or cry or if he should me how failed he was in writing his unpublished novel. ''...F*ck Untouched Elements!'' He screamed in his mind, waiting for his life to be ceased or erased from existence, but at that moment, a few notifications sounded, prompting him to skim through them. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'',ughs at your sudden action.] [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', knows what you are looking for.] [The Constetion ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' wants to make a contract with you.] ... "S-spare me, p-please! I-I won''t disturb yo¨C,... "W-wh-what? A c-contract!?" ''T-think! Think! Think!'' Russell pped his cheeks with his both hands, seemingly to forget for a second his thoughts of death just a few seconds earlier. From prostrating himself to sitting down on the ground made of very sturdy roots, he rubbed his deep blue eyes repeatedly to check if he was dreaming, to the point that they would pop out as he profoundly stared at the System messages. ''What the hell?'' That''s all he could say in his mind after confirming that he was not dreaming, that he really left the Obelisk Academy, went to three different Air Train Stations, saw an Untouched Element in the yer General Store, bought items from there, and strode for a few kilometers to reach this ce. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', is patiently waiting for your answer.] "A-ah, w-what''s the condition?" After some time of disordered thoughts, he tried his best to calm himself down from the extremely unexpected, and sudden situation he was thrown into. He asked for the condition because making a contract with a Constetion could not and must not be done impulsively. This was where the Obelisk Academy, along with any other academies for yers exists. It serves as a learning and training ground for candidates or future champions of Constetions, which means that NOT everyone could have a contracted Constetion because of the sole reason that the moment the champion dies, it would deal a massive blow to the Constetion''s divine or evil power that could threaten ''His'' or ''Her'' existence. With his pathetic and weak self, along with his rank, it''s very suspicious why the Night of Primordial Chaos wanted to make a contract with him. - Ding-! Numerous sounds of notifications entered his ears, sending his thoughts back to the reality of the situation. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', is materializing.] [You have gained the Title: The One Who Witness the Impossible.] [You have gained the Title: The One Who Saw the Night up Close] [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', has used a cosmic skill you are not qualified to know.] [Your body will feel rxed, and you will not die in ''Her'' presence.] Russell''s deep blue eyes widened in shock at the extremely unexpected notifications he ever received since he was reincarnated into this world. Chapter 4 Contract The space was torn apart as a crack appeared near the center of the circr hall where the stone table altar was situated, then a godly figure walked out of it. "She" stride with soft steps like a noblewoman whose dignity couldn''t be tainted, but she''s exuding a dark blue aura that resembled the deepness of the night. Russell''s mouth was agape as if his jaw would be detached at the sight of the figure that walked out of the torn fabric of space, and before he knew it, he was already covered with a thick, dark blue barrier that depicts the sea of stars, a gxy, as though countless twinkles were swirling around through it. It''s the cosmic skill he''s not qualified to know that the above-heavenly figure had cast on him. Aside from giving him tranquility, calming his state of mind, to avoid fainting, one of the purposes of the skill that "She" used was to avoid identally killing him just by showing "Her" presence. He would instantly die the moment the thick, dark blue barrier was lifted, and even though he was covered with it at this very moment, a mouthful of blood still leaked out from his mouth. It''s not because there might be a w with "Her" cosmic skill, but rather the System only stated that he wouldn''t die, which means that he might still suffer the physical consequences of standing in front of "Her" presence. ... After a minute or two of "Her" materialization, "She" took out something from "Her" Dimensional Inventory. This ''something'' floated in the air, prompting Russell to follow it with his eyes, causing him to form a confused expression as he recognized the ''thing'' that was floating. ''...It''s an Egg.'' He mumbled in his mind before he retracted his gaze from it and looked at the ground made of thick roots. He only saw the feet of the majestic figure through his peripheral vision as he maintained his kneeling stance which was an instinctive reaction from him. "She" has many cosmic titles or nicknames ording to what Russell remembered in his unpublished novel, but she''s well known as the Goddess of Night. The Goddess of Night looked at him with a gentle expression, but he knew very well that a wrong move or words were tantamount to his death. Then, without directly looking at the eyes of the Goddess of Night, as he bowed his head, seemingly having a staring contest against the ground made of thick, sturdy roots, Russell heard the dignified, yet the gentle voice of "Her". "Don''t be afraid." The Goddess of Night said in a calming tone that causes Russell''s soul and heart to feel relieved inexplicably and strangely. ''Wh-what do you mean don''t be afraid...?'' Russell inwardly thought. Although he''s calmed down due to the mysterious, cosmic skill that the Goddess of Night had used on him, he still couldn''t think straight with the above-heavenly presence standing in front of the puny man like him. "It seems you are afraid of death. Heh heh." The Goddess of Night smirked at the small man, not in a literal sense, kneeling in front of "Her" before "She" said, maintaining "Her" dignified yet gentle tone. "As I said, I want to make a contract with you. "You asked about the conditions, in which I only have two." The Goddess of Night looked at the bowing Russell who was not daring to look at "Her". Russell only listened at this moment, waiting for the Goddess of Night to say the conditions or reasons for asking him to be "Her" champion. "Look at the Egg." This time, Russell felt like he lost control of his will as he directly looked at the Egg, which has the size of an ostrich. Mysterious symbols were engraved on its outer shell, and for some unknown reason, he was being drawn closer to it. "My condition is only for you to take care of this Egg until it hatches. "And while in your care, take this Egg around your world. "With this, the contract shall be made." ... The Goddess of Night stated the two conditions: (1) take care of the mysterious Egg until it hatches, and (2) take the mysterious Egg around his world. Russell''s expression had a mix of confusion and anxiety with the very peculiar conditions in exchange for a contract with the Constetion in front of him. "W-why me...?" With an inexplicable mix of anxiety, fear, and confusion as his heart raced, he mustered up the courage to ask "Her", putting his thoughts into words. ''I-I need to calm down.'' He repeatedly tried to convince himself, but his mind couldn''t process everything logically this time as he again looked at the ground of roots. "Don''t you want to?" The Goddess of Night asked as though something like refusing was possible, but Russell didn''t believe so. This was a lifetime-to-never encounter opportunity that was happening for stupid and rather mysterious reasons; stupid as he didn''t ount for "Her" eyes to be cast on this Hidden Dungeon, and mysterious as he couldn''t understand the thought process of the Goddess of Night, but upon thinking about such a thing, he realized how stupid he was for trying to understand, even slightly, the thought process of the Primordial Goddess. At this moment, with the help of "Her" cosmic skill''s tranquility effect, Russell mustered up everything he got, although he was still kneeling, he started to look up to clearly see the face of the Goddess of Night that he didn''t manage to scrutinized upon her arrival earlier due to his instinctive reaction to kneel and bow down. "She" looked straight into his eyes, and the moment their eyes met, Russell felt an indescribable thumping of his heart. It was the kind of beating that was forbidden and detrimental. He quicklyposed himself, brushing off the unnecessary feeling as he scrutinized the Goddess of Night''s physical features. "She" looked like she was in "Her" middle 20s with a slender body and fair skin that was beyond perfection, pitch ck, waist-length hair, thin almond, deep blue eyes which pierces Russell''s very soul as he looked at them. "Stand up, mortal. I don''t need such polite acts." Russell stood up from kneeling, feeling a slight pain in his knees as he didn''t know for how long he''s been doing it. With the words that came out of "Her" mouth just now, and with his calming state of mind, he gradually remembered the characteristics and details about the Goddess of Night based on his unpublished novel. || "She" didn''t need any praises or worship as some of the existing Constetions didn''t even know "Her" existence. || || The Goddess of Night was born out of Chaos itself and was the ruler of it for countless years. || || "She" barely to seldom took an interest in the business of the other Constetions, which "She" even considered as kids, so how much more in taking an interest in a human? || The moment Russell recalled some of the lines in his unpublished novel, he grew increasingly confused as the Goddess of Night took an interest in him. It could only mean a thing... that he''s f*cked up at this very moment. "I-I just want to know the reason, why me...?" He asked curiously while grasping the height of "Her" which was about at least 170 cm. "You seem to have calmed down, now, mortal. "If you are asking for the reason why I wanted to make a contract with you, making you my champion in the process... "It''s simply because... You are a strayed soul, and at the same time are not." The Goddess of Night said in a way that seemed to indicate something mysterious about Russell''s existence. He felt goosebumps all over his body as he realized the possible indication of "Her" words. ''D-does "She" know I''m a reincarnated person...?'' "W-what do you mean?" He asked with resolve, appearing to not have any guesses about "Her" previous words. "...You know very well what I mean, mortal." "Her" gentle voice vanished as a cold with a mix of arrogance and dignity reached his ears. He didn''t open up about his reincarnation, instead, he only assumed that the Goddess of Night might already know about it. Russell thought a ridiculous idea, somewhat feeling a sort ofedy that his reincarnation didn''t have the usual plot armor unlike some novels had read in his previous life where even an omnipotent god or an omniscient goddess didn''t know that the person was reincarnated, transmigrated, or regressed to the past. "Figure it out yourself, mortal." The Goddess of Night added, cutting Russell''s ridiculous, but somewhat very usible thoughts. "...What''s your answer then, mortal? Will you ept my offer or not?" After weighing everything down in his head, Russell responded firmly. "I ept... I ept the conditions." "A wise decision. "Here, take the Egg, take care of it, and travel with it around your world. "You will know the reason why it should be that way, eventually." The Goddess of Night said before the Egg floated up from its initial ce to Russell''s hands with a wave of "Her" hand. After observing the mysterious Egg for a bit, he asked if he could put it inside his Dimensional Inventory to which "She" replied with a nod. ... Just after Russell put the mysterious Egg in his Dimensional Inventory, "She" approached him who was standing at least two meters away from "Her", then closing the gap between them, "She" extended "Her" fair-skinned right hand, ced it on his chest, but it didn''t make physical contact with him due to the mysterious barrier that''s surrounding him. "The contract shall now be made, mortal." The moment the Goddess of Night spoke those words, a mix of purple and dark blue aura emanated from "Her" hands, which then pervaded his chest. ''T-this is not how a contract is done...'' Russell thought inwardly, and along with his thoughts, without any warning, he suddenly felt that his heart was being carved with something, prompting him to scream out loud. "You are right, this is not how a contract is done... if it''s a normal contract that is. "It''s a brand I engraved in your heart, mortal." As if the Goddess of Night had read his thoughts like a book. "W-wh¨C" The excruciating pain was unbearable as he couldn''t manage to let out a single word. ? "It''s a contract, but a stronger one. "So, sleep well, mortal." The Goddess of Night said with a casual, but a somewhat solemn expression. "Her" words didn''t register in his auricr sense as he felt like his heart was being poked by thousands of needles without anesthesia. "Aaarrrgggghhhhh!!!!!!" His scream reverberated throughout the Hidden Dungeon, "Oldest Root of Yggdrasil" before he passed out. ... After an unknown period of time, inside the "Oldest Root of Yggdrasil", the dungeon that seemed to co-exist with the Chaos Aura that exudes from the Goddess of Night. "She" looked at the face of the mortal, Russell Moon, whose head was sitting on "Her"p as "She" sat on the ground. A faint smile was painted on her beautiful lips. "...Russell Moon... "##########." "She" muttered his name, and said some words in anguage unknown to humanity, then "She" grabbed his left hand, took out a certain seed from "Her" Dimensional Inventory with "Her" right hand, then ced it on Russell''s palm before clenching it. "She" gently ced his head on the ground, then snapped "Her" fingers. After some time, "She" vanished from inside the Hidden Dungeon through the same, torn fabric of space, where "She" earlier came from, leaving the passed-out Russell on the ground. Silence then covered the entirety of the dungeon. Chapter 5 Unexpected Growth [1] Russell woke up with a lingering pain in his chest as he reflexively and repeatedly touched it, seemingly unaware of the environment he was in at the moment. ''...What happened??'' He looked around as he realized that he was lying on the sturdy ground of an ancient root, at least that''s what it was because it could be mistaken for a branch due to its size. After some time, as if a lightning strike hit his head and an imaginary bulb was born out of it, he started to recall what happened before he passed out. ''...So, "She" already left.'' He let out a sigh of relief as he thought that whatever happened had just passed, then he checked his functioning smartwatch that, for some reason, was protected by the mysterious barrier that the Goddess of Night had used on him. ''6:42 P.M.'' Russell remembered that he left for this journey in the morning just as the Sun showed itself through the horizon, and as of this moment, the Sun certainly burrowed itself, appearing on the other parts of the world. "Just for how long I was passed out?" He muttered, but his muttering seemed to reverberate inside this closed space. He took a few deep breaths until hisposure returned to normal, and without the presence of the Goddess of Night, he managed to clear his mind. "Ah sh*t, sh*t! The seed!?" His eyes widened as he reflexively took a lotus sitting position from being slumped down on the sturdy ground, and randomly reached out for the location of the seed. "...Did I¨C" He was just about to mutter if he got tricked by the Goddess of Night for some unknown reason when he noticed that something slipped down from his left hand. It''s an almond-shaped seed with a size of 1 inch in length and half an inch in width. It''s exuding a dark blue aura that represents the color of Chaos. Russell then crouched down to pick up the seed. Although the Chaos Aura was something extremely dangerous when it came in contact with any being not rted to Chaos, the seed on the ground was a different case based on his unpublished novel. The Chaos was within the seed itself, not on the outer shell, and when it''s consumed, it has a high probability to bepatible with any being. After heaving a sigh of relief, realizing that the Goddess of Night honored "Her" words and that he didn''t get tricked unlike what he thought. He sat on the ground, and then he scrutinized the seed with his deep blue eyes as he held it between his right index finger and thumb. A System notification entered his ears along with the holographic screen that appeared in front of him which contained the information about the seed he was currently holding. ... [Seed of Chaos] A seed that was swept by the power of Chaos in the ancient of ancient times to the Oldest Root of Yggdrasil, the foundation of the World Tree, which happened at the beginning of the creation of the world. Rank: Ancient ssification: Consumable Effects: ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] ... Ding-! Just as after he inspected the Seed of Chaos'', another notification, which he didn''t expect, sounded in his ears, prompting him to look and read it thoroughly. ... [You have met the requirements to consume the "Seed of Chaos".] ¨C Requirements to be eligible for its consumption: 1. Night of Primordial Chaos'' Champion 2. Symbol of Night 3. Profession: Summoner and Reaper ... It was at this moment that Russell was reminded again of how trash his unpublished novel was, and how it wasing to bite him, being reincarnated in that very same novel. The Seed of Chaos was an "Untouched Element" in which he wrote briefly but didn''t get into detail. "I didn''t even know that it has requirements in this world... "And what''s the ''Symbol of Night''?" He frowned in wonder, but he felt like he wanted to smack his head on the sturdy root of Yggdrasil. Ding-! The System, as if it knew what he wanted to know, sent another notification, which he read thoroughly just like the previous one. ... [Symbol of Night] It is the brand that has been carved into your heart by the Goddess of Night which contained underlying "mysteries". Effects: ¨C Growth Rate increases by 2.5 times ¨C Willpower increases by 7 ¨C Tenacity increased by 7 ¨C Mana Regeneration increases by 200% ¨C Health Regeneration increases by 200% ¨C Stamina Regeneration increases by 200% ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] ... "Holy cow!" He eximed as he reflexively stood up while realizing the great value, considering the effects, of the very unfamiliar "Symbol of Night". There were uncountable variables that were unounted for. "Whoo..." He felt grateful inside for something that he unexpectedly received. ''...That writer must be a genius. I wonder who he is.'' He instantly retracted his im about himself being a stupid writer who didn''t even manage to publish his novel, and thought about himself from a different point of view to the point that he almost cackled. "All that matters is I received more than what I hoped for." He mumbled as he organized in his mind what happened earlier. The appearance of a Primordial Goddess, the initiation of an unusual contract with unusual two conditions, and the mysterious Egg that''s been handed to him to take care of. He also didn''t anticipate that the Seed of Chaos would be in the Goddess of Night''s possession. "There''s no use in deeply thinking about it." He faintly said before he noticed the stream of System messages that he wasn''t able to check. "...Hmm, I probably received them when I passed out." He easily came to such a conclusion as he started to browse and thoroughly read the numerous System messages. ... [You have been branded by the Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos''.] [The Symbol of Night has been sessfully carved into your heart.] [The contract with the Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', has beenpletely formed.] [You have gained the Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX).] [You have gained the Trait: Nihility] [You have been granted the Authority: Void of Chaos.] [You have received the "Seed of Chaos".] ... Russell''s deep blue eyes almost popped out as he read through the System messages he received when he was unconscious. He felt like he was dreaming as he began to absorb the meaning of the messages he read, and thought that they were too good to be reality. But, as a writer of a certain unpublished novel, and being reincarnated inside of it, he knew very well that the rewards he unexpectedly received were very appropriate because they came from sessfully forming a contract with a Constetion, and in his case, with a Primordial one at that. Sessfully forming a contract with a Constetion yields numerous unimaginable rewards, tangible or intangible, and the only thing that greatly differs was with whom a yer has been contracted. When ites to Russell''s case, he became the champion of a Constetion that had no interest in meddling in worlds'' affairs, someone who even considered other Constetions as kids, and their war as children''s fight. "Sigh... I''m truly grateful." He let out a sigh before muttering his gratefulness, but he couldn''t help but thought that what had transpired on this day would certainly cause a great deviation from what he knew, the supposed-to-be original story. But, deep down at the back of his head, the moment he reincarnated in this world simr to his unpublished novel, he was certain that it would be different in some ways, but he was not paying attention to such a thing which he considered trivial as he considered his previous life as unproductive and must be left behind to go forward in this life, and to survive the future he knew. ... p-! p-! pping his left cheek with his left hand, he washed away his unnecessary thoughts, then he looked at the Seed of Chaos being held in his right hand. "I should probably consume this right now." There was no better timing to consume the Seed of Chaos than at this moment as he wasn''t sure what would happen if he consumed it outside of this ce. "Okay, here goes nothing..." By meeting the three requirements which he hadn''t anticipated, he put the Seed of Chaos in his right hand into his mouth and then gulped it down, which almost choked him. ... [You have consumed the "Seed of Chaos".] [The seed''s aura is starting to seep within your body and soul.] ... A dark blue aura started to emanate from his body as he remained standing. "Oh... it''s warm." He was surprised by the warmth that the Seed of Chaos provided in his body. ''I thought it''s gonna hurt like hell... again.'' He inwardly said, recalling the excruciating, unexpected pain he experienced through the carving of the mysterious Symbol of Night to his heart. Ding-! Ding-! Subsequent notifications sounded in his ears as he consumed the Seed of Chaos, snapping him out of his thoughts. ... [The "Sealed Effects" of the Seed of Chaos will be unlocked.] [Seed of Chaos] Effects: ¨C [All Variable Stats increases by 15.] ¨C [You have unlocked a new stat: Chaos Power.] ¨C [Chaos Power increases by 20.] ¨C [You have gained the Trait: Under the Night.] ¨C [Your Growth Rate increases by 1.5 times.] ... The "Sealed Effects" of the Seed of Chaos have been unlocked upon Russell''s consumption of it. Russell''s face wore a shocked expression as his deep blue eyes dted, no words escaped from his mouth that became agape as he stupidly stared at the stream of System messages. And at that very moment, the Seed of Chaos, which Russell considered monstrous in his unpublished novel, started to manifest its effects. He felt profound strength surging within him as he gradually digested the seed, raising his overall stats, except for Luck and Charm, all of a sudden. Ding-! "Okay, what''s this now?" ''There''s more!?'' He mumbled as he excitedly thought of another unexpected variable. With his excited emotions, he quickly, but thoroughly checked the System messages he received this time. ... [Upon theplete and sessful consumption of the Seed of Chaos, the two "Sealed Effects" of the Symbol of Night have been unlocked.] [Symbol of Night] Effects: ¨C Growth Rate increases by 2.5 times ¨C Willpower increases by 7 ¨C Tenacity increased by 7 ¨C Mana Regeneration increases by 200% ¨C Health Regeneration increases by 200% ¨C Stamina Regeneration increases by 200% ¨C Chaos Power Regeneration increases by 300% [previously sealed] ¨C You have gained the Skill: Chaos Consumption (EX) [previously sealed] ... Russell earlier wondered how he would unlock something he didn''t ount for or had no idea about, but it seemed as though he was being favored at this moment that it unlocked itself by meeting the condition through his consumption of the Seed of Chaos. Ding-! Ding-! And without giving him the time to breathe and process what he had just read, another stream of notifications resounded in his ears. ... [You have met the requirements for Profession Evolution!] ¨C Requirements 1. Complete and sessful digestion of the Seed of Chaos. 2. "Fully Unsealed" Symbol of Night. [Your professions: Summoner and Reaper are in total harmony.] [Your professions: Summoner and Reaper will be merged into one.] [You have be the "Mediator of Chaos"!] [Your profession: Swordsman has been removed.] [You have gained the Passive Skill: Weapon Mastery (S+)] [All Variable Stats increases by 5.] [Chaos Power increases by 10.] [Your Summoner Skill: Summon Creature has evolved to a new skill: Alien Call] ... With the numerous, unreal, dream-like content of the System messages, his mind turned nk, but when he read thest System message, he opened his mouth in astonishment. "W-wh¨C A-alien w-what...? What the f*ck!?" Chapter 6 Unexpected Growth [2] "Status Window" ... Name: Russell Moon Race: Human Title: [The One Who Witness the Impossible] [The One Who Saw the Night up Close] Health Points (HP): 510 Mana Points (MP): 290 Stamina Points (SP): 500 Chaos Mana (CM): 300 Age: 16 (Earth Years) Sex: Male Height: 170 cm Rank: E- Profession: Mediator of Chaos Constetion: Night of Primordial Chaos ¨C STATS: pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 Strength: 35 Dexterity: 34 Constitution: 50 Agility: 32 (+11) Vitality: 35 (+16) Perception: 40 Willpower: 18 Tenacity: 18 Charm: 7 Luck: 7 Magic Power: 29 Chaos Power: 30 ¨C Unique Skill: [Chaos Buff (Lvl. MAX)] Rank: EX Cost: 0 CM - Grants the "Trait: Chaos" to the designated target. ¨C Trait: Chaos Effects: - The target''s body and soul will bepatible with Chaos Aura or Miasma. - Permanently increases the overall stats of the yer, except for Charm and Luck. - The increase in overall stats of the yer is proportional to the Chaos Power of the Mediator of Chaos. - Limit number of targets: 0/11 - You cannot change the one you have granted the "Trait: Chaos" unless the target dies. ¨C Skill: [Alien Call (Lvl. 0)] Rank: EX Cost: 10 MP/10 CM - Summon a creature you have defeated once. - Summons an alien creature from the Chaos Realm. - The summoned creature or alien creature will have an increase in their overall stats by 10. Creatures that you can summon: 1. Slime Cost: 1 MP per minute to retain the summon - A fluid-like creature that is considered the weakest among the weak. It is a very flexible creature. - Alien Creatures that you can summon: 1. Alien Slime Cost: 5 CM per minute to retain the summon - Something that you would not want to see. [Chaos Consumption (Lvl. 0)] Rank: EX Cost: 0 MP/CM - Consumes the chaos miasma of the monster you killed. Effect: - Increases the Chaos Power by a certain amount depending on what monster was killed, and the level of the skill: Chaos Consumption itself. [Weapon Mastery (Passive) (Lvl. 0)] Rank: S+ - Allows you to wield any weapon of choice and learn them faster. - Weapon proficiency increased by 200% [Basic Swordsmanship (Passive) (Lvl. 0)] Rank: F- - You can perform the basics of swordsmanship, it does not make you stronger, so never hope that you can survive a dungeon with only this. [Basic Scythemanship (Passive) (Lvl. 0)] Rank: F- - You can perform the basics of scythemanship, but never hope that it can defend you in grave danger, this can even kill you if you are careless. ¨C Trait: [Nihility] Conceals oneself from the prying eyes as if to be nothing itself. Conceals the Chaos within the yer''s body and the yer''s items. Rank: EX Effect: 1. Manipte the Status Window to the user''s will 2. Gain the Skill: [Absolute Concealment ¨C Active and Passive.] - Allows the user to be invisible that cannot be detected by normal means - Hides the Chaos aura from prying eyes that even some Constetions wouldn''t be able to detect it. [Under the Night] The Night of Primordial Chaos loved the night so much that it sees the hidden nature of everyone under the night sky, though time wouldn''t matter to "Her". Rank: EX Effect: 1. Gain the variable stat "Perception" 2. Perception increased by 20 3. Gain the Skill: Eye of Night - Allows you to see the hidden nature of someone. - Increases vision by fivefold, and tenfold during the night. ¨C Authority: [Void of Chaos] The "Authority" granted by the Night of Primordial Chaos to the Mediator of Chaos. "She" resides in the "Nothingness" of the Great Universe that already existed before the First Light came to be. The holder of this Authority will be granted the following benefits: 1. The summon under the ''Alien'' category will be strengthened by 100% potency. 2. Skill: Chaos Collector (EX), which allows the Mediator of Chaos to just collect, instead of absorbing the Chaos Miasma in his body. The collected Chaos Miasma will be stored in the "Nothingness." 3. Skill: Reinforcing Chaos (EX), which allows the Mediator of Chaos to forcefully give Chaos Aura to the designated target. The effects will be different, depending on the target and how much Chaos Aura has been forcefully given. 4. Increases the resistance against the Dark Attribute by 1000%. 5. Increases the resistance against the Light Attribute by 100%. ... Russell Moon checked his "Status Window" as he muttered it softly. He still couldn''t believe his eyes at what he just read, causing his mouth to be slightly agape while browsing the holographic screen in front of him. It''s mainly because of the raise in his overall stats, except the Charm and Luck, the skills he received, the "Traits", and "Authority". Although he knew that seeding in forming a contract with a Constetion and bing a champion, would grant a yer massive rewards. "...Alien Call..." ''F*cking hell.'' He cursed in his mind just after he muttered the very unusual name of one of the skills he received. With the massive boost in his stats, that''s probably trivial in this worldpared to high-rank yers, he felt the change in his body even slightly. "I''m just a greenhorn." The start of the story of his unpublished novel hasn''t even started yet as the sses in the Obelisk Academy have yet to take ce, but Russell knew, considering the future of his unpublished novel, that the current him was less than an ant. From the second lowest of ranks, F rank, to bing E- rank, he was at least grateful. He also takes into ount the greatest or most important factors when ites to realbat; Skills, Unique Skills, Traits, and Authority. "...But with this, I might have a buddy to train with. "Alien Call, huh...? And the heck is that description?" He mumbled as he seemed to forget that he was still inside the Hidden Dungeon, full of unknowns to him. "Something I don''t want to see... This feels ominous and creepy." He read slowly the description of the Alien Slime, but he didn''t dare to summon one at this very moment as he knew very well that a description of something from the System itself should never be taken lightly. ... ''...Alright... hmm?'' Wondering what to do next, after Russell checked his "Status Window", he looked around the circr hall made of roots that were bigger than a branch of a normal tree, then his sight managed to catch a treasure chest, which exudes a dark blue aura, atop the stone table altar. He instinctively knew that the treasure chest with an intricate design carved on its exterior was something unordinary. "Did "She" leave it...?" He muttered before slowly approaching the treasure chest that was at least 36 inches in length, 24 inches in height, and 12 inches in width. After a few seconds, when he was near the treasure chest, he inspected its description through the System. ... [Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos] It was left by the Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Goddess'', which could only be opened by the Mediator of Chaos. ... It was a brief description that the System had shown him. Normally, a yer would be able to see the rank of a treasure chest as every treasure chest contained different rewards. It also depends on the luster of the treasure chest and its exterior feature. From what Russell remembered, treasure chest ranges from Wooden, Copper, Silver, Jade, and Golden. It''s a different kind of rankingpared to identifying a yer which ranges from F- to SSS+. ''It''s totally different...'' He muttered in his mind as he opened without hesitation the treasure chest. It''s not that he''s oblivious to the existence of a mimic treasure chest, but he knew that it wouldn''t be like that due to the System''s description which stated that it was dedicated to him as the Mediator of Chaos. Creak-! He slowly opened the treasure chest, then a dark blue aura started to rush out of it, prompting him to cover his eyes with his right forearm due to its intensity. Then, all its contents just seemed to have a life on their own as they started to be sucked into his Dimensional Inventory without giving him time to inspect anything. "...T-that''s... cool? I guess." He admired the irrelevant phenomenon that happened. What''smon for a yer was to physically pick up the item in the treasure chest, but Russell knew that there were exceptions to this such as what happened just now. Rumble-! Rumble-! ... Russell wanted to check what he acquired, the loot from the Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos, but without any warning, the dungeon started to shake which could only mean a thing. "It''s probably closing." He mumbled, recalling some information about dungeons, while he started to move out, but before he did, he never forgot the Crude Shortsword that he dropped as he picked it up before running to the Hidden Dungeon''s entrance. Every normal dungeon, whether it''s a Strayed or Tower, even if conquered, would only close if the yer destroyed the Dungeon Core. But, when ites to Hidden Dungeons, a Dungeon Core was something that didn''t exist as it only focused on a challenge and rewards, and if the yer manages to clear it, it would automatically shut itself down. Rumble-! Rumble-! As the intensity of the trembling turned heavy, he quickly sprinted towards the exit where he initially appeared the moment he entered through the gap between the two inconspicuous, normal-looking trees. Ding-! Ding-! With the loud rumbling, the System''s sounds of notifications were something that still could be heard, but as he ran against time, he chose to neglect it. Then, after a moment, he saw an arc-shaped passage, just like the shape of the gap that was formed when the two inconspicuous trees leaned against each other. [Exiting the Hidden Dungeon, ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil.] ... Russell looked around and found himself in the familiar yet unfamiliar forest, part of Armageddon Mountain. The illumination of the Sun didn''t enter his vision as he instinctively looked up while he surveyed the surroundings. What he saw was the grand scenery of the starry night, the bluish moon that seemed to exude serenity, and the twinkling of stars of unknown distances. He was reminded of the Goddess of Night. "...What time is it?" He mumbled before he checked his right wrist where a smartwatch was worn in. ''9:42 P.M.'' Upon realizing that it was almost veryte at night, he started to take his pace to find a ce to rest for the night. Before he started to walk, he looked at the entrance where he entered and didn''t see anymore the two trees that were leaning against each other. After walking for a few minutes through the deep forest with trees of various sizes, with the help of his new profound vision, strengthened tenfold under the effects of his Trait: Under the Night, he quickly found a suitable spot. He also made sure that there were no Wild Beasts or Monster Beasts, as well as any strayed person, by circling the area twice, that''s at least a hundred meters. "Ha... What a journey." He heaved a sigh of relief as he muttered, before setting up the Portable Tent, then he ate some beef jerky under the Light Enchantment of the Portable Tent. After some time, due to his physical and mental fatigue, he quickly fell asleep at least four to five minutes just after he was done eating histe dinner. With his deep blue eyes closed, weakly snoring while his hands were at the back of his head, the silence of the night permeated throughout Armageddon Mountain''s forest as a purple shooting star passed by. Chapter 7 Recollection After waking up early in the morning as his smartwatch sounded an rm, Russell did his morning routine, then started traversing the forest to go back to the only avable station in this region after tidying himself up. ¨C Yellow Sun Station After some time, with his strengthened body after receiving the benefits yesterday which he didn''t expect, he reached the only station of Northernmost Olympia where he came from. There were already civilians, who didn''t career being a yer for their own reasons, and adventurers, who didn''t mind the risk of being a yer, who asionally raided a Strayed or Tower Dungeon avable to the public. He noticed the time it took for him to get backpared to the time yesterday when he traversed the forest. ''It''s remarkably quicker.'' He told himself as he started to walk to ride an Air Train bound for the Red Star Station of Central Olympia or Obelisk City. There were four Air Trains stationed in the Yellow Sun Station, two of them were bound to the Central Olympia, while the other two were bound to a Northern major country in the Orion Continent. Although Portals exist that allow for instant travel, due to its high demand, some people preferred using an Air Train if they were not in a rush. ... After finding a seat on the Air Train, Russellfortably sat before recollecting everything that had happened yesterday. Starting from his journey, traversing a certain part of Armageddon Mountain, sleeping in the middle of nowhere which gave off a tranquil atmosphere that seemed to be a characteristic of nature itself, admiring the magnificent night sky and the bluish moon hanging above it, finding the Hidden Dungeon, meeting the Goddess of Night, and so on. But, aside from the unbelievable encounter he never anticipated, the particr words of the Goddess of Night keep lingering in his mind. - You are a strayed soul... and at the same time, are not. - You know very well what I mean. ''...What did "She" mean by that..?'' He muttered in his mind, avoiding himself to speak verbally due to some passengers who might hear him, which would probably make him look like a broken-hearted man if his words were taken out of context. He racked his brain, searching for the possible meanings regarding the enigmatic words that came out of the Goddess of Night''s mouth. Although he couldn''t easily arrive at an answer, he was certain of one thing... That it was about his reincarnation in this world. ''...Strayed soul... and at the same time... are not, huh...?'' As he admired the view he was seeing from the window of the Air Train, his deep blue eyes dted due to the sudden realization of the underlying meaning behind the Goddess of Night''s words, which contained underlying mysteries. ''...I am reincarnated in this world... a world that''s highly simr to the first novel I wrote which I didn''t manage to publish. I was born here more than 16 years ago if I include the months, and I wasn''t transferred to some other character''s body, but rather directly born in this world... ''Hmm... I guess being called a strayed soul would probably mean that I''m a reincarnated person, and I have the memories of my past life, especially the knowledge about my unpublished novel. ''...And at the same time, I''m not a strayed soul because I was born in this world, I''m originally a resident of this world... with my family.'' Russell hypothesized about the possible reason for the Goddess of Night''s words, but he couldn''te up with a conclusion just based on what he thought. He recalled the first notification that indicated the Goddess of Night''s presence when he entered the Hidden Dungeon. The System said that the Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' had observed his "very being". ''...I wonder if "She" knew that this world, at least not all of it, was designed by me." Living sixteen years of his life in this world, one thing that was pped to him was how trashy his unpublished novel was. He didn''t know if he shouldugh or cry upon recollecting everything that happened, but one thing was certain... that he was thankful for being reincarnated in this world. ''Thank you, supercar!'' He cackled in his mind with the thought of being grateful to the supercar who ran him over in his previous life. ... After an unknown period of time of enjoying the journey inside an Air Train, a product of Magic Engineering, Russell checked his "Status Window" again, to double-check the unbelievable fruit of his journey. He gained +20 for each Variable Stats: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Agility, Vitality, and Magic Power. On the one hand, these were the stats that were called Variable Stats due to various reasons such as these stats were heavily influenced by external factors such as yer equipment, from weapons, and armor, to consumables just like the Seed of Chaos that Russell consumed which gave him a raise of +15 in his every Variable Stat, and +5 after he underwent Profession Evolution. On the other hand, the stats such as Willpower, Tenacity, Charm, and Luck were called Invariable Stats, although it''s called Invariable Stats, these could be increased, but with more effort required. The Willpower and Tenacity stats were always the same in number, and could only be increased by either mental training or some unexpected factors, while the Charm stat basically referred to one''s physical appearance which was something that Russell didn''t even want to talk about, and the Luck stat, however, was something that could barely change. ''...I have no idea how can my new Perception stat be increased...'' He thought inwardly as he browsed the System information regarding the details of something called Power Stats. ... When ites to Divine Power, Evil Power, and in his case, Chaos Power, they were called the Power Stats. Although it could fall into the Variable Stats category as it was somewhat simr, there''s a difference that needed to be taken note of... that the Power Stats were something that was heavily influenced by the Constetions'' nature and power. One would need some conditions to increase a Power Stat, and in Russell''s case, it''s to either find something that could boost his or to use the Chaos Consumption (EX) skill to the Strayed Dungeon''s or Tower Dungeon''s monsters upon their deaths. Magic Power was something that was not considered a Power Stat as this was considered a general power that anyone could manifest, due to Mana being abundant in the world, and without the need to have a contract with a Constetion. Although Magic Power was something that anyone possessed, the difference in power, in how efficient and potent it could be used, was heavily dependent on one''s training, Mana-rted Passive Skills, and equipment that helps Mana Regtion. ''...Let''s just check everything.'' He thought inwardly before he proceeded to check the details of Variable and Invariable Stats in the System''s General Information section. It''s something he decided to do due to the few hours remaining that he''d be sitting inside the Air Train. ... [yer Stats borate Information] ¨C Variable Stats [Strength] - Deals with the physical body of the yer. - Each strength stat strengthens the physical body of the yer. - Strength acquisition: Training, Consumables, and Profession Evolution. [Dexterity] - Deals with the hands of the yer. - Each dexterity stat helps the yer handle weapons more skillfully. - Dexterity acquisition: Training, Consumables, and Profession Evolution. [Constitution] - Deals with the stamina of the yer. - Each constitution stat helps the yer not get tired easily. - Each constitution stat equals 10 stamina points (SP). - Constitution acquisition: Training, Consumables, and Profession Evolution. [Agility] - Deals with the movement of the yer. - Each agility stat helps the yer to be more agile. - Agility acquisition: Training, Consumables, Profession Evolution, and per 3 points of Dexterity stat, 1 Agility stat is added. [Vitality] - Deals with the health of the yer - Each vitality stat increases the life force of the yer. - Each vitality stat equals 10 health points (HP). - Vitality acquisition: Training, Consumables, Profession Evolution, and per 3 points of Constitution stat, 1 Vitality stat is added. [Perception] ¨C Acquirable Stat - Deals with the senses of the yer. - Each perception stat helps the yer to better sense the surroundings. - Perception acquisition: Training, Consumables, Profession Evolution, and discovering one''s hidden nature. [Magic Power] - Deals with the mana within the yer''s body or the atmosphere - Each magic power stat increases the Mana Points of the yer - Each magic power stat equals 10 mana points (MP) - Magic Power acquisition: Training, Consumables, and Profession Evolution. ... ¨C Invariable Stats [Willpower] - Deals with the mental fortitude of the yer. - Each willpower stat helps the yer block mental interference. - Willpower acquisition: Mental training. [Tenacity] - Deals with the mind and body of the yer. - Each tenacity stat enhances the yer''s willpower to a certain degree. - Tenacity acquisition: Mental training. [Charm] - Deals with the physical looks of the yer. - Each charm stat increases the attractiveness of the yer. - Charm acquisition: Training, Consumables, and Profession Evolution . [Luck] - Deals with the luck of the yer - The more luck the yer has, the luckier the yer will be in random events. - Luck acquisition: Trigger the yer''s luck. ... ¨C Power Stats [Divine Power] - Power that is different from Mana because its source is the Divine and Neutral Constetions. - It is the holy or light attribute. - Each divine power stat helps the yer to wield skills, traits, or authority more proficiently. - Each divine power stat equals 10 divine mana points (DM). - Divine Power acquisition: Sign a contract with a Divine Constetion, items with a holy or light attribute, and gain more favor with the contracted Constetion. [Evil Power] - Power that is different from Mana because its source is the Evil Constetions. - It is the unholy or dark attribute. - Each evil power stat helps the yer to wield skills, traits, or authority more proficiently. - Each evil power stat equals 10 evil mana points (EM). - Evil Power acquisition: Sign a contract with an Evil Constetion, Items with the unholy or dark attribute, and gain more favor with the contracted Constetion. [Chaos Power] ¨C Exclusive Stat - Power that existed before the beginning of time. - It is neither holy nor unholy. - Each chaos power stat helps the yer wield skills, traits, or authority more proficiently. - Each chaos power stat equals 10 chaos mana points (CM). - Chaos Power acquisition: Sign a contract with the Night of the Primordial Chaos, consumables with chaos attribute, and items with chaos attribute, through the use of Skill: Chaos Consumption (EX), and gain favor with the Night of the Primordial Chaos. ... Russell read through the description of each stat under the three categories: Variable, Invariable, and Power Stats. He caught the glimpse of his new stats, the Perception and Chaos Power, which was added to the System''s information. ''...Discovering one''s hidden nature...?'' He became confused with the somewhat peculiar condition of how to increase his Perception, but he recalled the Eye of Night (EX) skill that he received upon being the Goddess of Night''s champion. Although discovering or looking at one''s hidden nature was somewhat broad in his perspective, it was something he must do in the future. ''About Chaos Power... it''s quite challenging for now.'' Aside from consuming the Seed of Chaos, and having his heart carved with something, he didn''t have anything for the moment that could help him increase his Chaos Power. ''Dungeon is impossible, too... I''m still a student.'' After cross-marking in his mind the possibility of essing a Strayed Dungeon, he read back thest way to acquire Chaos Power... it''s to gain the favor of the Goddess of Night. ''...Hmm, when I think about it... ''...Ah, f*ck. I almost forgot...'' Due to being mentally upied, he couldn''t process everything that had happened, but this time, he recalled the mysterious Egg that was entrusted to him and the items he acquired from the Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos, which were sucked inside his Dimensional Inventory just before the Hidden Dungeon closes. He organized his thoughts, browsing the notifications he didn''t manage to check as he avoid being buried inside the dungeon that was closing. Then, after some time, his expression twitched as a grin formed on his face. "...This... holy hell..." Chapter 8 Additional Rewards Russell verbally muttered, causing some of the passengers to look at him with confused expressions, but that''s all about it as the passengers returned to their own businesses. Then,posing himself, he browsed the unread System messages that he received while leaving the Hidden Dungeon. ... [You have cleared the hidden dungeon: The Oldest Root of Yggdrasil.] [You have aplished a nigh-impossible achievement!] [You have received the ''Tainted Branch of Yggdrasil''.] [You have received the ''Seed of Yggdrasil''] [Due to your achievement, additional rewards will be given.] [You have received the ''Tainted Seed of Yggdrasil''] [You have received the ''Fruit of Chaos''.] ... The above-mentioned rewards were the rewards he got from clearing the Hidden Dungeon, which means, even if he hadn''t met the Goddess of Night, he would still receive them due to the achievement he aplished. Hidden Dungeon rewards aside, the items that helped themselves out by being sucked into his Dimensional Inventory were probably the items from the Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos. He then read the System messages about the acquisition of the treasures that the Goddess had left for him. ... [You have acquired the ''Key of Chaos''.] [You have acquired the ''Key of Abaddon''.] [You have acquired the ''Key of Tartarus''.] [You have acquired the ''Jar of Nothingness''.] [You have acquired Chaosdite (50x).] [You have acquired Chaostone (50x).] [You have acquired the Scythe of ''???''.] [You have acquired the Sword of ''???''.] [You have acquired the Armor of ''???''.] [You have acquired the Helmet of ''???''.] [You have acquired the Boots of ''???''.] [You have acquired the Gloves of ''???''.] [You have acquired the Mask of Night.] ... ''...T-this is madness.'' He inwardly said while a grin was still painted on his expression. Although he had no idea about what he just received, as the author of a certain unpublished novel, he was pretty certain that these items were extraordinary to their own degree. ''...Madness aside, it''s the best help I never expected.'' He didn''t know the possible underlying reasons why the Goddess of Night had made a contract with him, bing "Her" champion, aside from taking care of a mysterious Egg and traveling with it throughout the world, but he was grateful for the sudden leap, not in his overall power as he''s still below an antpared to the bigshots he knew about, rather, he''s grateful in acquiring these rewards due to the catastrophes and wars that would befall the world ording to what he knew, based on his unpublished novel. ''...T-this is what I needed the most right now! And five of them at that!?'' He felt ted in his mind upon reading the subsequent System messages after the above-mentioned ones. ... [You have acquired the Skillbook: Scythemanship of the Reaper (Passive).] [You have acquired the Skillbook: Swordsmanship of the Night (Passive).] [You have acquired the Skillbook: Mark of the Night.] [You have acquired the Skillbook: Chaos Mana Sense (Passive).] [You have acquired the Skillbook: Calm of the Shadows (Passive).] ... Skillbooks were something that was highly sought after in this world. These Skillbooks were used to make a yer learn skills instantly, although it''s highly sought after, the price of acquiring one, if not by dungeon raiding, was tens of millions to billions of Obel ¡ª the currency of the Orion Continent. Prices varied from the Skillbook itself such aspatibility and nature. Not every yer could just learn every Skillbook that exist, rather, it depends on one''s profession if such Skillbook was necessary to learn. It would be a waste of money and time if a Fighter-type profession learns a Support-type skill. pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m Compatibility and nature aside, the prices of a Skillbook also depend on its rank, ranging from F- to SSS+. These Skillbooks could be acquired from raiding Strayed Dungeons or Dungeon Towers or be received from the Constetion that a yer has a contract with. But, the Skillbooks that were given by the Constetions to their respective champion were exclusive ones, which means that there couldn''t be more than one person who could possess such a skill due to it being a ''Bound'' skill. Russell never doubted that he was not the only person possessing such ''Bound'' skill, but the difference between exclusive skills was extremely due to the Constetion that a yer has a contract with, the Constetion''s power and nature, as well as the Constetion''s standing. ... Honk~! Honk~! "Dear passengers, we have now arrived at the Red Star Station~" A voice of a woman, seemingly passionate about her job, repeatedly sounded in Russell''s ears, causing him to be snapped out of his thoughts. After a long journey, he finally arrived at the "Red Star Station" of Central Olympia or Obelisk City. He didn''t stop by the "Starlight Station" of the Northern Olympia, where the yer General Store, the store where he bought the necessities in his journey, was located, as there''s a one-way ticket from the "Yellow Sun Station" of the Northernmost Olympia to the Red Star Station. After tidying himself up, he stood up from his seat as the passengers started to exit the Air Train, while the next batch of passengers was eagerly waiting for their ride to be emptied. ''...I didn''t even manage to use the Crude Shortsword I bought.'' Hempooned inwardly, and although he managed to pick it up before the Hidden Dungeon closes, his reason was very simple for doing so. ''...It''s a waste of money if I left it there.'' ... "Sigh... wee back to me." As a person who was a shut-in in his previous life, although he nevercked exercise and never forgot to take his meals regrly as he took care of his physical health, he was used to talking to himself when he''s alone, especially verbally, but in the presence of people he knew, it was his mind that mostly do the talking, and he only speaks when he felt like it or when it''s necessary. ... The Obelisk Academy was only a few minutes away by foot from the Red Star Station. As he walked down the road, he admired the towering buildings of the Obelisk City as various thoughts surfaced in his mind. The Obelisk City, the capital of Olympia, was one of the major countries and was considered to be the center of the human domain. After the Emergence that happened ''almost'' 40 years ago, which caused the 7 Continents of the world to be merged into one, and after a few years of trying to restore order and develop the crumbled government, the "Obelisk Organization" was founded. The "Old Governmental System" copsed, and to keep the bnce of power that humanity possessed, humanity''s Strongest yers, the most powerful people in the human domain that''s contracted with respective powerful Constetions, came to an agreement and built their own respective country. The 7 Continents Pre-Emergence, though massive innd and sea area, after the Emergence befalls the human world, contrary to the Earth''s size of being 7 times its original diameter Post-Emergence, the human domain or the area where humans could "safely" live became iparably smaller. The Post-Emergence Continent''s size was roughly about the pressed" Pre-Emergence Western Continent, Middle East, Europe, and Asia, with the exception of thend area of the continents ¡ª Australia and Antarctica. These merged continents were presently called the "Orion Continent", and the Pre-Emergence world was now dubbed the "Old World." The Orion Continent was divided into 7 major countries: 1. Olympia ¨C Modern Korea (Land of the Stars ¨C Central Orion) 2. Cassiopeia ¨C Modern Ennd (Land of the Noble ¨C Northern Orion) 3. stor ¨C Modern America (Land of Diversity ¨C Westernmost Orion) 4. Etheria ¨C Modern Europe (Land of the Harvest ¨C Northernmost Orion) 5. Nereia ¨C Modern Pacific or Oceania (Land of the Seas ¨C Eastern to Easternmost Orion) 6. Arka ¨C Modern Antarctica (Ice Land ¨C Southernmost Orion) 7. Bhaskara ¨C Modern Middle East (Desert Land ¨C South Orion) Due to the impact of the Emergence, the Old World came to be, and the New World was born out of it. ''...It''s a messed up geography, though.'' Russell inwardly thought as the afternoon Sun seemed to scorch his slightly fair skin as he arrived at the gate of the Obelisk Academy. ... ''...I''m d it''s still okay to go out.'' He said while walking as he remembered the rules, that the moment the sses starts, no Obelisk student would be able to go out of the academy premises unless it was a special case like a family emergency, school trip, club activity, or ss activity. But considering the abundance of resources that the Obelisk Academy possessed, Russell was reluctant about ss activities being held outside the academy premises. After entering the Obelisk Academy after he passed the identity check, he took his pace to go back to the dormitory room assigned to him. ''...6:42 P.M...? Just how long did my journey take? It''s probably because of unnecessary stops.'' Clicked-! Creaked...! After arriving at the front of his dormitory room, aside from other students who were probably in different cafeterias at this hour, there were still a few walking through the hallway, but this time, they weren''t paying attention to him, who were wearing a gray-hooded jacket, ck pants, and blue t-shirt with Obelisk logo. ''...What a peaceful time.'' He muttered before entering his opened dormitory room. ... After tidying himself up for a few minutes just after he took a quick bath as he didn''t manage to take one of almost two days, he decided that it was time for dinner, so he quickly left his dormitory room as he felt that his stomach was boiling. Just after he closed the door of his dormitory room, he stopped moving as he heard a familiar voice behind his back. "Oppa! Where the hell have you been?!" It was Russell Moon''s younger sister, Freya Moon. She''s also a first-year in the Obelisk Academy, the same as him. Although he was roughly a year older than her, due to their family''s past financial situation, he gave way to Freya to study first, instead of him. In this world, the educational curriculum only consists of Kindergarten, which tackles the basics of reading and writing, basic arithmetic, and basics of System knowledge, as well as the good deeds of admirable people that''s renowned to this day to inspire the children, then during Elementary, what was being discussed was the advanced version of the above-mentioned basics, and the general overview of being a "yer" or adventurer, along with its opportunities and risks. By early discussing this path, the Elementary students, ranging from 7 Earth Years old to 13 Earth Years old, would be able to decide early for themselves with the guidance of teachers or their parents. "yer Career" aside, there was also "Civil Career". Although it was quite a harsh reality, it still stands true that there were students not talented enough to pursue the adventurer''s path due to its underlying dangers, but, with the existence of non-Fighting-type or non-Support-type professions, there were careers open for yers who didn''t want blood in their skin: Production-type professions. These Production-type professions consist of cksmiths, miners, farmers, herbalists, alchemists, and so on. In any case, a yer with a Fighting-type or Support-type profession, but didn''t want to risk his life, could take sses or training under the Production-type professions or be an office worker under somepanies, but learning something a yer wasn''t meant to be was arduous in itself. It''s only possible in Production-type professions because a Fighter-type profession wouldn''t be able to learn anything, even with great effort, what a Support-type profession does. Then, after graduating the Elementary studies at the average age of 13 Earth Years old, students would then be given a year to stop studying. It''s the rule that was set by the Obelisk Organization with the sole reason that it takes a long time to truly decide what path a person should take, but during this time, although not mandatory, one could attend training centers for the "Three Types of Professions". Andstly, what Russell hope he had experienced in his previous life... College Education was abolished due to the System''s existence which became an excellent help to the person''s learning, which helped people to determine their talents earlier. At the moment they turned 7 Earth Years old, the age at which children were already capable of thinking somewhat rationally, the System would be granted to them. Russell designed it that way when he wrote his unpublished novel since a child wouldn''t understand whatever the System says at a very early age. ... "...Oppa!?? What are you thinking about, huh...?" Russell was snapped out of his random thoughts upon hearing his approaching younger sister. When he thought about his current situation, he was given more than he could ever ask for; aplete family in this world that he didn''t have in his previous life. A great father, a caring mother, and a younger sister that takes after her caring mother. "O-ouch!" Russell ¡ª who seemed in a reverie, even at this evening ¡ª was jolted awake by a pinch from his younger sister to his right cheek. "...Nothing, nothing." He reflexively responded to her previous question as he leaned his head to the side, an instinctive reaction to the pinch that Freya did. "...I asked where the hell have you been?! I was looking for you yesterday, too." Without answering her question, he spoke nonchntly. "...Sigh... I''m hungry, let''s grab some dinner." He started to walk, in which Freya followed suit while looking at him with constricted eyes as fierce as a needle. While walking through the hallway of Russell''s dormitory block, he thought of some things that worry him about Freya, his younger sister. ''...She''s a ssmate of the main characters in the novel I''ve written.'' Freya belongs to the A-1 ss, while Russell belongs to the A-11 ss of the first years. And he knew, that where the main characters were flocking, troubles were their shadows, which always follow them. He was somewhat d that he was not their ssmate, but due to his younger sister, he told himself that he would only meddle in the plotline if the safety of his family, in this case, his younger sister was at stake. ''...Sigh... what a twisted fate.'' Chapter 9 Freya [1] It had been two weeks since she arrived at the Obelisk Academy with her older brother through one of the Portals connected from where they came from to Obelisk City. They admired the urban scenery of Obelisk City, and thend area, as well as the infrastructure of the entire academy. Although they couldn''t fathom it with their naked eyes, due to the provided School Guidebook with the Obelisk Academy''s map in it, they came to know the premises'' size. The entirety of the Obelisk Academy was as massive as the size of 8 standard-size football fields, and it has an octagonal shape based on the aerial view that the pictures had shown. Due to its massive size, it''s only right that not everything inside the Obelisk Academy was something that''s rted to academics. There were restricted areas or areas that were out of reach for students unless they received authorization with a valid purpose. These areas consist of facilities regarding the following: Monster Processing, Herbal Gardens, Alchemists Laboratories, cksmith Workshops, Artisan Workshops, Enchanter''s Keep, Obelisk Equipment Storage, and Obelisk Logistics. Monster Processing was about the facilities where dissecting the monster''s parts takes ce for misceneous or general uses except for Monster Core which could be used for weapons, armor, or artifact-making. Herbal Gardens were the area or facilities where any alchemical herbs used in Alchemists'' Laboratories, for potion-making, could be harvested. cksmith Workshops were the facilities where the weapons or armor for the Obelisk students were produced, while the Enchanter''s Keep was the area in which ''some'' of the weapons and armor that the cksmith Workshop made was passed through so that they could do the Enchantment process. Artisan Workshop was the area for making artifacts. Although the security of the Obelisk Academy wasn''tx, the Artisan Workshop contained tighter security. Then, the Obelisk Equipment Storage contained the weapons or armor that was not for students, and the Obelisk Logistics works in transferring and procuring the relevant materials depending on the higher-ups'' orders. ... Aside from the restricted facilities, Freya just admired everything in the Obelisk Academy, such as the worthy-to-be-mentioned 9 gigantic buildings, where the dormitories of the students could be found. The A-1 ss of the first years resides in a building called "Rigel Building", named after the brightest star known to mankind. It''s the building where famous individuals belong, as well as other students that were recognized by the Obelisk Academy, who deserved to be granted "yer Schrships". And Freya was one of those students. Then, the A-2 to A-7 sses of the first year reside in a building called "Cygnus Building", named after a Northern Constetion of the ne of the gxy of the Old World, when the physical manifestation of the existence of the godly beings was yet to be known by the human race. While the A-8 to A-12 sses of the first years reside in the "Andromeda Building", named after the neighboring gxy of the Milky Way. It''s the building where Freya''s older brother was stationed. The other dormitory buildings were called the "Hercules Building", for the A-1 ss of second years. It''s named after the Greek god of the Old World, Hercules, which signifies strength and heroism. Then, there''s the "Perseus Building" for the A-2 to A-7 sses, which was named after the son of one of the known gods known to the Old World that slew a certain gorgon and saved Andromeda. After that, there''s the "Draco Building" for the A-8 to A-12 sses of the second year. It simply means "Dragon", but there were few indications of the word, "Draco" such as serpent. When ites to the third-year dormitory buildings, there exists the "Gaia Building" for the A-1 ss of third years, named after the Primordial Earth Goddess of the Greek mythology of the Pre-Emergence world. Then, for A-2 to A-7 sses of the third years, it''s called "Diana Building", that''s named after the goddess of hunting in Roman mythology, Diana. Lastly, the ninth building was called "Astrape Building", named after the Greek goddess known in the Pre-Emergence world, Astrape, or the personification of lightning. Along with Bronte, her sister, they were the entourage or attendants of the god of lightning. ... "It''s not like I''ll memorize all of them, though." Freya ¡ª who was sitting in front of her study desk, inside her spacious, but luxurious-looking dormitory room ¡ª muttered softly as she re-read the parts of the School Guidebook that she didn''t manage to finish due to its thickness, which only means "many pages". "I wonder if Oppa has read all of them..." Waiting for the Sun to be swallowed through the horizon, she continued to flip the pages and read them thoroughly, like the new, excited student she was. The 9 gigantic, dormitory buildings were located at the Western part of the octagonal-shaped Obelisk Academy. They upied at least three parts of the octagon. Then, there''s the General Training Ground was located on the perimeters of the middle of the Obelisk Academy, where a towering, massive literal Obelisk infrastructure was situated, pointing itself to the sky. The Teachers'' Faculty Building, as well as the students'' ssrooms, were on the Northern part of the Obelisk Academy. This building upied the two parts of the octagon, while the remaining three parts, which referred to the facilities that were restricted to the students were located on the Eastern and Southern parts of the Obelisk Academy. "...There are also 3 entrances, huh..." She muttered as she read about the entrances of the Obelisk Academy that''s situated in the North, where the Teachers'' Faculty Building was located; West: where the 9 dormitory buildings were located, and East, where the restricted areas were located. ... While reading the School Guidebook, and at the same time, admiring the Obelisk Academy''s infrastructures and its architecture, the Sun started to set. Freya looked at her smartwatch that she was wearing on her right wrist before closing the School Guidebook, she then stood up from where she sat, walked slowly to her bed, then started to lie on it. After a few seconds, with her fair-skinned hands at the back of her head, she muttered softly. "Status Window." ... Name: Freya Moon Race: Human Title: [Blessed by the System] Health Points (HP): 710 Mana Points (MP): 500 Stamina Points (SP): 630 Age: 15 (Earth Years) Sex: Female Height: 167cm Rank: E Profession: Magic Swordsman, Mage Constetion: None ¨C STATS: Strength: 42 Dexterity: 33 Constitution: 63 Agility: 40 (+11) Vitality: 50 (+21) Willpower: 25 Tenacity: 25 Charm: 14 Luck: 12 Magic Power: 50 pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m ¨C Unique Skill: None ¨C Skill: Wind Cutter (Lvl. 2) Rank: E- Cost: 15 MP - Imbues your sword with wind element and makes it sharper. - The sharpness and magnitude of the wind element that envelops the sword increases as the level of the skill increases. Short Blink (Lvl. 1) Rank: C Cost: 25 MP - Teleports a short distance of 10 meters from your original location. - The ce of teleport can be designated by the user. - As the level of the skill increases, the distance for teleportation bes farther and the mana cost bes lower. Basic Swordsmanship (Lvl. 3) Rank: F- - You can perform the basics of swordsmanship like a true beginner. Mana Sense (Passive) (Lvl. 1) Rank: S+ Cost: None - Sharp your senses to be more sensitive to mana. - The higher the level of the skill, the more you be sensitive to mana. - Helps the efficiency of other mana-rted skills by 100%. Mana Breathing (Passive) (Lvl. 1) Rank: S+ Cost: None - Breathes mana in the atmosphere more efficiently. - Mana Regeneration increased by 100%. Mana Control (Passive) (Lvl. 1) Rank: S+ Cost: None - Allows the user to control mana more efficiently. - Skill executions can be performed more efficiently. ¨C Trait: [Blessed One] You have been blessed by the System due to your dedication to grow stronger for some reason. Effect: - Gain the skills: Mana Sense, Mana Breathing, and Mana Control ¨C Authority: None ... Based on what Freya knew, the reason why she was granted a "yer Schrship" by the Obelisk Academy was probably due to her Profession: Magic Swordsman, which simply means thebination of a Mage and Swordsman, the so-called general professions that were considered widespread professions. Professions were divided into three categories: General, Rare, and Unique. "General Professions" were the kind of professions that were widespread, and one of the easiest ways to distinguish them was that it''s literally "One Word Professions" such as Swordsman, Mage, Summoner, Reaper, cksmith, Enchanter, Alchemist, and so on. The "Rare Professions" could easily be distinguished as they consisted of "Two Words", or "Two-Word Professions" such as Magic Swordsman, Enchant cksmith, Reaper Summoner, and so on. But, when ites to "Unique Profession", the number of words wouldn''t matter. It could mostly be achieved through Profession Evolution after seeding in forming a contract with Constetion. The best example of these professions was the kind of professions that the renowned Guild Masters of the TOP 10 Guilds have. ... These professions, especially the "Rare", have a great advantage when enrolling in the Obelisk Academy. For an aspiring yer to be qualified for enrollment in the Obelisk Academy, the yer would need to take an entrance exam, which was divided into two parts: Written and Rank Evaluation. As the "Status Window" was something very personal, considered to be one of the best assets of a yer, the Rank Evaluation was rather done through a simple yet anxiety-inducing process. By cing the hand atop the Legendary-rank artifact, "Orb of Truth", the yer or enrolling student would then answer the necessary questions given by the employee or Obelisk staff. These questions were about the Rank, ranging from F- to SSS+, Professions, and the number of Magic Power stat. Any lie of the aspiring student would be detected through the Orb of Truth, whiches with a heavy penalty. Although it was somewhat "easy" to enter the Obelisk Academy as long as the aspiring student passed the simple examinations and have the finances for the enrollment fee if the individual in question wasn''t under the "yer Schrship" program, it''s better to belong to the A-1 ss as much as possible due to its unreal privileges, especially after they graduated. Freya then recalled the process that was exined to them, on how the sses were assigned, while she was waiting for the time to pass. ... ¨C Written Exam final score + Magic Power Stat = Assigned ss. Freya''s Written Exam score: 97 Freya''s Magic Power stat: 50 If the total of the Written Exam''s final score and an individual''s Magic Power stat reached or exceeded 135 points, that individual would be assigned to the A-1 ss, even if the profession was a general one. But, from Freya''s perspective, she felt that having a Rare Profession was more advantageous. ''...Oppa''s at A-11, sigh...'' She inwardly thought, although she knew that her older brother have three general professions, she felt like the Obelisk Academy was somewhat biased, though she didn''t have anything to prove it. But, she also thought that, even though the students in A-2 to A-12 sses were randomly assigned, they must have maintained proper bnce. "...Although he''s weaker than me, Oppa''s great at giving advice. I wonder¨C..." Brrnnngggg-! Buzz-! She mumbled, but her words were quickly cut off by the vibration on her right wrist, caused by the smartwatch that she was wearing. "6:30 P.M." "Where the hell was he... Sigh... "...I should go see, Oppa." She continued to mumble before she sat on her bed, then stood up to quickly tidy herself up. After grooming herself, she left her dormitory room. Chapter 10 Freya [2] Freya walked down the aisle of the silent dormitory block. There were only 40 A-1 students in the Rigel Building, making it very spacious, but somewhat unnecessarypared to A-2 to A-7 and A-8 to A-12 sses that were packed. She rode a High-Speed Elevator that was a product of Magic Engineering as humanity''s technology advanced due to the great changes that happened ever since the Emergence. After exiting the High-Speed Elevator, she walked for at least 10 minutes from the Rigel Building to Andromeda Building due to the distance of more than a hundred meters based on the detailed School Guidebook that had geometry in it if she''s not remembering it incorrectly. She reached the entrance of the Andromeda Building, causing her to be stared at by numerous pairs of eyes, but she didn''t care about it at all. ''...Oppa''s room should be Room 393 on the 5th floor.'' She muttered inwardly as she continued to take her strides ¡ª after she quickly passed the identity check by showing her Obelisk I.D ¡ª from the Andromeda Building''s entrance to one of the High-Speed Elevators on the ground floor. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 Ding-! Within 5 seconds, due to the High-Speed Elevators that were powered by Magic Stones, she arrived at her older brother''s dormitory block, then the sound of the elevator rang in her ears as its door opened, then she slowly walked out of it. ''...There are not many people... probably because it''s dinner.'' She thought as she walked through the hallway of her older brother''s dormitory block, although there were a few students, there were stares still being directed at her, which she brushed off. "Oi oi, isn''t she from the Rigel Building?" "Right, why is sheing to a ce like this? She''s an A-1 student though." "Don''t you two really know? I think she''s a sibling of that weirdo." For some reason, students from the lower sections had that tendency of looking up to the A-1 students in exchange for unintentionally looking down on themselves. She''s been recognized since every student who became an A-1 student, especially for the first years, was posted on the Obelisk Website with their faces, and the reason that Freya could think of when she was recognized as a sibling of her older brother was that during the days that were given to them, before the sses start, she''s usually seen with him, and it''s also because of their simr facial features. ... Freya ¡ª who was walking with slow steps ¡ª stopped upon hearing the words of one of the students who may be unintentionally raised his voice. She then turned her head to look at the three students, it was because of the word "weirdo" that made her do so. Apparently, her older brother''s already dubbed as a weirdo in this dormitory block. She stared fiercely at the three students, who reflexively flinched and then turned their heads away, avoiding her gaze under her deep blue eyes as though they were going to drown if they stared longer. ''...Oppa, just what the hell are you doing!?'' She shouted in her mind, wondering why her older brother''s been dubbed as "weirdo" even though the sses haven''t even started yet. Though it''s not like it''s alright for her, for her older brother to be called something like that after the sses started. After a few seconds, when the three students left, she continued walking until she saw the back of someone she certainly recognized. "Oppa! Where the hell have you been?!" Freya shouted at a controlled volume, it was like a shout but in a whispering way, but it was enough to be heard by Russell and the other students, who somewhat formed a bewildering look on their faces. She then slowly ran to her older brother, who seemed lost in his thoughts. ... "...Oppa!?? What are you thinking about, huh...?" When Freya didn''t answer receive a response, she looked from the side, then began to pinch his right cheek. "O-ouch!" He was jolted awake from his little reverie as though the pain receptors in his right cheek had electrocuted him. "...Nothing, nothing." ''...Nothing, really!? It looks like you''re dreaming while awake!'' Freyampooned inwardly, not voicing her thoughts, instead, she repeated her previous question. "...I asked where the hell have you been?! I was looking for you yesterday, too." Without answering her question, her older brother spoke nonchntly. "...Sigh... I''m hungry, let''s grab some dinner." ''...Tsk. Sometimes, he''s like this. Sigh... But, I should let him slide. He did worry me, but I''m happy that he''s here.'' She started to match his pace while walking beside him until they entered a High-Speed Elevator. Then, after less than 5 seconds, from the 5th floor, where Russell''s dormitory room was located, they reached the ground floor of the Andromeda Building. ''...He''s quiet again.'' She pouted as she retracted her gaze before looking around the Obelisk Public Grounds while walking to reach the cafeteria they usually visit for lunch and dinner. ''...Although Oppa''s behavior seems peculiar to other people''s eyes, it''s normal to me.'' As Freya had observed, even when they were still kids, Russell acts like an adult, and barely talks in front of unfamiliar people. ''...Even though we''re only less than a year apart... But it''s that mature behavior of his that makes me feel safer around him. ''And though I''m stronger than him, he''s really great at giving pieces of advice.'' She muttered in her mind as she and her older brother saw from afar the cafeteria they usually went to, and after walking for a minute or two, they finally reached the cafeteria, named "Obelisk Cafeteria One." It was packed with students that already formed their circles. ... A few minutes "before" they reached the Obelisk Cafeteria One. Russell and Freya exited the building where the former''s dormitory room was located. As they took their pace, the former noticed the stares of some of the students passing by while thetter was either oblivious or didn''t mind it at all. Russell knew that these stares, although directed in his direction, were actually directed at his younger sister''s physical appearance. ''Well, what can I say...? My younger sister has beautiful features.'' Freya has monolid, deep blue eyes as though they contained the depths of the unexplored seas; a button nose that entuated her other facial features; mid-back length, deep ck hair as though it depicts a starless night sky, and then a fine, fair-colored body. ''...That aside... I won''t be telling her what I''ve been through... not yet.'' He muttered poignantly. Because of what he experienced, meeting a Primordial Goddess, as well as the subsequent circumstances, he hasn''t decided yet about his next steps for the future, and all he nned in doing for now... was to simply observe the flow of the story. ... "The usual, right...?" Freya heard her older brother, asking her about what meal to order as they waited in line at the cafeteria. "Yup! Set A it is! Heh heh." She replied before giggling, prompting her older brother to frown, which caused her to chuckle. "Why are you giggling? It''s creepy." Her older brother''s words felt like a pen that became a sword, then struck her heart. From chuckling to pouting at his remarks, Freya didn''t take what her older brother said to heart, rather, she felt happy that they were bonding again, although it mostly happened almost every day since they arrived at the Obelisk Academy. "Here''s your order. "Thank you for ordering." A woman, wearing an obviously forced smile as though she didn''t want to work at the cafeteria, interjected, cutting off the siblings'' thoughts. Russell then nodded at the cashier before taking the tray for two, where the Set A they ordered was on. ... Due to the Obelisk Cafeteria One''s area and the number of floors, which was 3, although many students were eating, chatting, or passing time, not every seat was upied. Russell and Freya took their seats by the thick window of the ground floor of the cafeteria. The view of some parts of the academy could be seen from the inside. There were parking lots and other department buildings, as the Obelisk Cafeteria One, as well as other cafeterias, was situated on the Northwest of the Obelisk Academy, bordering the Teachers'' Faculty Building in the Northern part of the academy premises, and the 9 gigantic building or dormitories for the students that''s located on the Western part of the academy premises. "Thank you for the food!" Both of them said at the same time before taking at least a heavy breath before munching the dinner they ordered. The Set A meal that they ordered consisted of Nereian Tempura, made of either Nereian Shrimps and Cuttlefishes enveloped in breadcrumbs, and then Etherian Green Rice, along with the Cassiopeian Beverage called Cas-soda, short of Cassiopeian Soda. It''s a meal set that was thebination of the specialty of the three countries: Nereia for sea foods; Etheria for crops, and Cassiopeia for beverages. The two of them, during eating a meal, weren''t opening their mouths to talk as though they were absorbed at this very moment. ... "...Hah... that''s a good one." Freya took a heavy breath after finishing her meal as she put down the ss of Cas-soda atop the square table for two and then admired the vorful Set A that she and her older brother usually bought. She didn''t have any concern about her mid-back length, deep ck hair that might distract her from eating as she always tied it in a ponytail when she''s leaving her dormitory room. Then, after a minute or two, she nced at her older brother and saw him finished his meal. "Oppa, let''s rest first." She casually said as various thoughts surfaced in her mind as she stared at her older brother, while her right elbow was atop the table and her right hand below her chin, supporting her head. - It is okay to get the interest of a Constetion, but do not just make a contract with one. The words of her older brother resounded in her head while waiting for the time to pass. ... Getting the interests of the Constetions was something that was not rare, especially when a yer was a student in the Obelisk Academy or any other yer academy. Although it''s not necessary to be a graduate of a yer academy, it would still be of great advantage to the yer''s side because the founders of the Obelisk Academy were contracted with strong and renowned Constetions. The Olympia was considered the Land of the Stars for a sole reason... Because the eyes of "most" Constetions were collectively focused on the yers or students that were being groomed by the yer academies, and due to the agreement of the founding members of the Obelisk Organization... that yer academies should only be built in Olympia. Kindergarten and Elementary schools, as well as Training Centers that were avable after graduating from Elementary, were the only education avable in other major countries. Then, due to the prestigiousness of the Obelisk Academy, there were many Constetions eyeing the yers or students enrolled in it, though, most of the yers were unaware of it, aside from the Strongest yers, as well as other extraordinary people. Due to the backsh caused by the death of the Constetion''s champion, not every yer received the opportunity to make a contract with one. Most Constetions initiate contracts with the students of yer academies when they were in their third year or graduating phase, just after the students were already polished. At least that were themon circumstances. The only concerning thing about this situation was that humanity had no answer even though Evil Constetions eyed some yers inside the yer academies, but even Evil Constetions weren''t impulsive in making a contract. ... "...Wait here, I''ll take out something." Freya ¡ª who was silent for some time ¡ª snapped out of her thoughts as she heard her older brother, who stood up to buy something, probably for histe-night snacks. - Do not just make friends with the "famous people" in your ss. This time, another piece of advice surfaced in her mind as she looked at the back of her older brother. Speaking of the "famous people" in the A-1 ss of first years, it was probably only the truly oblivious ones who didn''t know about them. They were either the daughters or sons of the TOP 5 Guilds'' Guild Masters or the TOP 5 heads of the Obelisk Organization. Freya knew that messing with these people was undoubtedly one of the most stupid decisions she could make. After two to three minutes, her thoughts were cut off as she saw her older brother approaching their seats. As Russell sat, Freya asked out of curiosity. "...Oppa, how''s your allowance given by Mom...?" She asked while looking at him, and this time both of her sped hands were below her chin as her elbows atop the square table for two. Crunch-! "...Hmm, yum yum... It''s still an allowance." What Freya thought to be an untouched take-out snack became rather touched as her older brother grabbed something from a paper bag. It was an Olympia Bacon Sandwich. "You...! Did you already spend almost all of it!?" Freya spoke firmly as her eyes dted, and her eyebrows pricked up. "...Don''t worry, I still have like 2,000 O...? or probably about 1,900 O." Russell said casually before putting back the remaining third of the Olympian Bacon Sandwich. "...Sigh... what did you do?" Russell didn''t answer, rather, he stood up, cueing Freya that resting was finished and it was time to go back to their respective dormitory room. ''...I got ignored... again.'' The first time she got ignored was when she asked where Russell had been, but somehow, Freya understood in a way, recalling something that her older brother had told her before. - It is better to just "NOT" answer a question thanmit a lie to someone. "Tsk... you better not have done something useless again, or I''ll kill you." She replied firmly as she stood up, then both of them took their pace. Before, Russell wasted some of his money that was given by their parents on mere arcades, especially in Virtual Reality (VR) games. ''...I don''t know why, but he looked like someone who saw a VR for the first time.'' It was still vivid to her, the expression of her older brother when they first went to a certain mall after their parents made their first profit in their respective job. ... After an unknown period of time, the two were nearing the Rigel Building''s entrance as her older brother apanied her. - Do not just make friends with the "famous people" in your ss. For some inexplicable reason, she recalled again his words, and the basics of the basic profile of the "famous people" in the A-1 ss surfaced in her mind. Samantha Hall ¨C Daughter of the Rank 1 Guild: StarStream Guild. Elizabeth von Etherion ¨C Daughter of the Queen of Etheria, the Guild Master of the Rank 2 Guild: Ethereal Guild. Anya Amasawa ¨C Daughter of one of the renowned conglomerates, the Guild Master of the Rank 3 Guild: Olympus Guild. Rumia Flora ¨C Daughter of the Queen of Nereia, the Guild Master of the Rank 4 Guild: Chaos Hunter Guild. Leon von Obreyon ¨C Son of the Guild Master of the Rank 5 Guild: Phantasmal Guild. ''...Hmm,e to think of it... Leon von Obreyon...'' While walking slowly, Freya''s pacing became slower as she looked at her older brother, who was walking beside her, while drinking another Cas-soda. "Oppa... you are ssmates with Mira von Obreyon, right...?" Upon hearing her words, Russell involuntarily spat out the soda from his mouth. Chapter 11 Untouched Elements As though a cold bucket that came from the Ice Land, Arka, was poured out of nowhere atop his head, Russell ¡ª who was drinking a Cas-soda ¡ª spat the mouthful of drink from his mouth upon hearing his younger sister, Freya''s words, prompting him to stop walking that caused her to do the same as she looked at him with a bewildered expression, seemingly confused with what seemed like an overreaction from her older brother. Cough! Cough! "...What''s wrong, Oppa? Are you okay?" Freya asked with a concerned tone as she perplexedly looked at her older brother. ''...Did she just say... von Obreyon?'' "...Cough-! Y-yeah, I''m okay, uhmm... who are you referring to again...?" Russell asked her again, acting like he hadn''t heard her earlier, but he just wanted to make sure he really haven''t heard her wrong. While waiting for Freya''s answer, his mind thought of some things that seemed random. The sses would start in less than four weeks, and just like what the Vice-Chancellor of the Obelisk Academy had told Russell during the interview, that''s probably the same case with other students, he could start making a circle of friends orpanions, but he didn''t bother in forming so as he considered almost every student in the Obelisk Academy to be too youngpared to his mental state. Although Russell was young in the physical aspect, he''s a 33-year-old man, without adding the 16 to almost 17 years of his life since his reincarnation. He couldn''t be med for taking his distance away from the students in the Obelisk Academy aside from his younger sister, unless there were activities that required him to cooperate with his ssmates... who, even at this moment, he didn''t know anything about. Aside from his mental age, there''s an issue that he seemed to avoid. It''s the dramas of some of the students about being envious of other students'' ranks and skills ¡ª not from the System, but rather about one''s talent. - Can I be like that, too? - Wow, as expected of the daughter of the number 1 yer! - They are really bigshots! - I can''t believe he isn''t known! Who is he?! There was nothing wrong in adoring people or the talent itself that some yers possessed or the yers that made a name for themselves without relying on connections, but some people should just stop adoring or being envious, rather they should try to exert more effort so that maybe one day, they might reach something they didn''t expect to reach, especially when they did it not only for themselves but for their respective families. Since Russell was reincarnated in this world, the importance of familial bond was something he gradually understood. ? "...Oppa, I said Mira von Obreyon, she''s the sister of Leon, my ssmate, and the son of the TOP 5 yer. "Well, I''m just curious if you know her... I saw them together one time, but it looked like a heated-up conversation based on Leon''s tone, and the downward look of her sister. "Tsk...Oppa, you didn''t check the list of the names of your ssmates, did you...? Freya said casually, seemingly teasing her older brother, especially when she said thest sentence. Some of the students who finished or were just about to start their respective businesses saw the siblings, who were standing, and not walking, but the stares didn''tst long. ''Right... the lists of students for each ss were already posted on the Obelisk Website. ''Though I couldn''t even care less about it...'' He paused his train of thought as his expression turned serious due to the unexpected and sudden information that came out of his younger sister''s mouth. ''...Untouched Elements! F*cki¨C'' "...Oppa, let''s go! You better start checking your ssmates, you know. Heh heh." Freya said as she chuckled before grabbing her older brother''s right wrist, who was left in a dazed. Russell just let his younger sister grab him until the nearing entrance of the Rigel Building, while his mind turned into a mess. ''...It''s a f*cking Untouched Element... again.'' It was the only thing that he could think of because, in his unpublished novel, he didn''t write anything about Leon von Obreyon''s sister, named Mira von Obreyon ording to Freya''s words, which he absolutely trusts. Although he knew very well that this world was not a novel as he was pretty certain that this was a "reality", it would only mean one thing... That Mira would then cease to exist in the story along the way, if and only if the main story of his unpublished novel naturally y out "even" with the existence of the Untouched Elements. ''...I don''t know how that will happen, but she will probably die in the future for some reason.'' Based on his writing about Leon''s character or personality, he would go in a bad route after envying the TOP 5, which would then be the TOP 1 in the future, who appeared out of nowhere but showed tremendous talent. This individual toppled him in rank, kicking him to Rank 6 in the A-1 ss. As if the daughters of the TOP 1 to TOP 4 yers were not more than enoughpetition, that individual unexpectedly joined the fray. And that person was the Main Character of the unpublished novel that Russell had written. Leon would be a thorn on that person''s side, especially, after Leon sessfully became the champion of the powerful Evil Constetion, ''ck Dragon of Undying Star''. "...O-ouch!" "...Tsk, what are you thinking deeply again, Oppa!? We''re here, so... you''re going back now?" Freya pulled her older brother''s short, deep ck hair that broke him from his thoughts as he reflexively touched his hair due to slight pain. "...Yes, I''ll be going back. Sleep early, okay? Good night." Russell replied with a genuine smile, even though his mind was experiencing an unexpected storm. "...Heh, sleep early? You''re the one to talk, huh? Whatever. Good night, Oppa." She waved her hands to her older brother before presenting her identification to the security guards guarding the entrance of the Rigel Building. Russell waited for her to go inside before he turned his back, and took his strides to go back to his dormitory room that was at least a hundred meters away from the Rigel Building. ... After a few minutes, Russell managed to go back to his dormitory room without much noise as it was gettingte at night. He sat on his single bed before letting out a heavy sigh. "I don''t know some future circumstances, but this is certainly bad news because it would involve me to a certain extent. "But, when I think about it, I would probably get involved even without Mira''s unexpected existence because of Freya." This time, being alone in his dormitory room, he did the usual by verbally mumbling his thoughts, not just collecting them inside his head. "Sigh... it''s no use to think about it right now." He heaved a sigh of resignation as he realized that he couldn''t do a thing about it at this moment, instead, he recalled the uninspected additional rewards that he received upon clearing the "Oldest Root of Yggdrasil", as well as acquiring the contents of the "Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos". "I totally forgot about them. Hah." He muttered as he chuckled as he prioritized his boiling stomach after he came back to the academy premises. ... One of the System''s functions that are avable for low-rank yers like him was to browse the existing records of where he went, as well as what he acquired, aside from the System''s Map that''s avable for everyone regardless of rank. Russell ¡ª who was still sitting on his bed ¡ª started to inspect the uninspected items he acquired. ... [Tainted Branch of Yggdrasil] A branch that falls off of the sacred tree of Yggdrasil, but was consumed by Chaos. Rank: Ancient ssification: ??? Effect: ??? [Seed of Yggdrasil] A divine seed of Yggdrasil, the World Tree. This seed can be nted, but as the Yggdrasil is already existing, it would only sprout some branches. Rank: Ancient ssification: ??? Effect: ??? [Tainted Seed of Yggdrasil] A divine seed of Yggdrasil, the World Tree, but consumed by Chaos. nting this seed is almost impossible as it would cause great destruction, and the anger of the race: Elves. Rank: Ancient ssification: ??? Effect: ??? [Fruit of Chaos] A fruit from a tree born of chaos that is only known to the [Night of Primordial Chaos]. Rank: Ancient ssification: Consumable Effects: ??? ... There were four rewards that Russell acquired from clearing the Hidden Dungeon. "I don''t know if I''d be happy with this or what..." He frowned in confusion after he read about the Tainted Branch and Tainted Seed of the World Tree, Yggdrasil. "How am I supposed to know where to use this...?" Although he''s frowning, he''s d inside about the other two additional rewards, which were the untainted "Seed of Yggdrasil", as well as the "Fruit of Chaos". ''...But their description was mostly nk... the hell.'' Upon realizing the unknowns of the rewards he acquired upon clearing the Hidden Dungeon, his dness turned into disappointment. "...Hmmm...? Hahaha...! Hahahahahaha!" After some time, as though he became crazy due to the sudden shift of mood, his controlled, not-so-loudughter reverberated inside his dormitory room as he was reminded of the information about what he acquired from the "Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos". Although he only saw that it was Skillbooks while he was on Air Train bound for Red Star Station, he knew that it was a great harvest beyond his imagination. He then inspected the Skillbooks after calming himself down, but a smile wasn''t leaving his expression. ... [Scythemanship of the Reaper (Passive)] Learn the ways how the [Harbinger of Death] cut down the flesh and soul of the target. Rank: True Unholy ssification: Skillbook Effects: - Learns the scythemanship of the Reaper - Increases in efficiency by 200% in learning any scythe-rted "art" or "technique". - Gain the Skill: Soul Execution [Swordsmanship of the Night (Passive)] The [Night of Primordial Chaos] was so bored that "She" practiced "Her" swordsmanship for countless eons. Rank: Zenith ssification: Skillbook Effects: - Learns the swordsmanship of the Constetion, [Night of Primordial Chaos]. - Increases in efficiency by 400% while learning any sword-rted "art" or "technique", and when wielding a sword weapon. - Gain the Skill: Abyssal Cut [Mark of the Night] One cannot escape the "cosmic eyes" of the [Night of Primordial Chaos] as "She" always takes care of those relevant to "Her". Rank: EX ssification: Skillbook Effects: - Using the Skill: Mark of the Night to someone, you can track the location of the marked target, and teleports to the target whenever the yer desires. It could rm the yer when the marked target is in a dangerous situation. - Activation Condition: Pat''s the head of the target. - Teleporting Condition: Through the yer''s thought. ... "...Mark of the Night... It''s a very convenient skill for me. I should probably use it for Freya and my parents when I get the chance to meet them." Due to the strict rule of "not leaving" the academy premises, even during weekends, once the sses start, it would take at least months, after a major exam ends, and vacation started until Russell and Freya would be able to meet their parents again. The skill''s rank was under the EX category, above the SSS+, but Russell recalled that there were simr skills that could rm the yer who used such a skill of the marked target''s situation. Though it''s somewhat different in characteristics, nature, or origin. After he muttered, he continued inspecting the remaining two Skillbooks. ... [Chaos Mana Sense (Passive)] Chaos is everywhere even in the presence of Mana. Rank: SS+ Effects: - Learns to "sense" Mana with 200% efficiency. - Learns to "sense" Chaos Miasma, Unholy Power, and Holy Power even if the amount was miniscule in the surroundings. [Calm of the Shadows (Passive)] As the Mediator of Chaos, one must learn not to just breathe and control mana, but also the Chaos itself. Rank: SSS+ Effects: - Learns to "control" Mana with 300% efficiency. - Learns how to be able to naturally absorb more "Mana" in the surroundings with 300% efficiency. - Learns how to be able to absorb Chaos Miasma naturally in the surroundings to increase the Chaos Power by a miniscule amount. - Increases Chaos Mana Regeneration by 300% ... "That''s what I''m talking about!" He felt ted as he quickly decided to learn the Skillbooks that he acquired from the "Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos" that was left by the Goddess of Night for him. cing his right hand atop the Skillbook he was holding in his left hand, a System message appeared in his vision. [Would you like to learn the Skill: Chaos Mana Sense (Passive)?] "Yes!" He answered without hesitation as the Skillbook gradually vanished from his left hand. It turned into dark blue smoke that was made of indescribable, unreadable letters. Then, these letters were absorbed in his body, along with theplete vanishing of the Skillbook. A huge amount of information surged in Russell''s head as though the knowledge was being forcefully injected into his brain, but after just a few seconds, he felt calm andpletely digested everything about the Chaos Mana Sense skill. He then did the same for the remaining four Skillbooks. [You have learned the Skill: Calm of the Shadows (Passive)] [You have learned the Skill: ¡­] [You have learned the Skill: ¡­] [You have learned the Skill: ¡­] ... After the disappearance of the Skillbooks and the surge of information inside his head. He tried to inspect the set of items he acquired, from the weapons to armor, but he was flooded with the System''s message that repeatedly said the following: [You have not met the requirements to inspect the ....] Although that was the case, Russell didn''t feel any negative feelings as he was already ted through learning the Skillbooks. On the other hand, he could at least three items, which he read thoroughly. ... [Jar of Nothingness] A nigh-indestructible jar from the Chaos Realm which was molded by the Constetion, [Night of Primordial Chaos]. Rank: Ancient ssification: Artifact Effects: - The Jar of Nothingness can be used tobine two or more items with Chaos origins. - [Locked] ... Aside front the "Jar of Nothingness", the other two items he acquired, which he could inspect the information, were the Chaosdite, or an enhancement material, and Chaostone, or a crafting material. ... After a few minutes of sorting out the items he acquired through the use of the System''s "Sorting Items" function in his Dimensional Inventory, he took out something in it. It was the center of everything that happened in the Hidden Dungeon. [Egg???] ??? Rank: ??? ssification: ??? Chapter 12 Jar Of Nothingness [1] The night reached its peak as the bluish moonlight, that came from the massive bluish moon that was hanging above the starry sky, intensified and became more dazzling than how it was as though it epassed the entirety of humanity''s serenity. Russell ¡ª who was sitting on the side of his bed as his feet touched the floor ¡ª held the ostrich-sized mysterious Egg with his hands; the center of everything that had transpired inside the Hidden Dungeon a few days ago. The ostrich-sized mysterious Egg that was entrusted to him by the Goddess of Night contained enigmatic external features as though it was the embodiment of "night" and "mysteries". Its outer shell was dyed in dark purple with a mix of dark blue; there were also indescribable characters that Russell couldn''t understand, but upon thoroughly taking a closer look at it, all he could read, at least based on what he''s seeing were a few lines that resembled the following characters in the English Alphabet that still exists to this day: [####E### D#######] Among the scattered, carved symbols on the outer shell of the mysterious Egg; Russell, who at least tried to find some familiar symbols, heaved a sigh of resignation as he tends to quickly get irritated upon staring at something he was not able to "quickly" understand. "...I''m probably the only being in this world that knows "Her" existence..." Russell mumbled while hugging the mysterious Egg as he started to contemte some things. Some Constetions aside, he believed that he was the only being on this who knew the existence of the Goddess of Night. ording to his unpublished novel, "She" barely made an appearance as "She" barely to never cared about the business of some of the Constetions. She''s also the Primordial Goddess of Night who never took an interest in a human or any other race. "...It still feels like a dream." Everything that transpired just before the beginning of the main storyline, based on his unpublished novel, came as a shock to him. His decision to acquire something that he wasn''t supposed to might have already ruined the causality of the story. "...But, when I think about it, it''s not like it really matters... because I really need to get stronger." Believing that his decisions ¡ª although would somewhat affect what he knew ¡ª would barely affect the original story, he brushed off the negativity of the possible consequences of his actions. Knowing the future events, especially the post-academy years; getting the Seed of Chaos, and unexpectedly falling under a contract with the Primordial Goddess was something he absolutely needed. It would allow him to grow quicker than others; although it would only matter in the early development due to a certain Tower that would give someone a chance to increase their Growth Rate, it was still better to have something than nothing at all. "...Getting stronger is an absolute must. "...I needbat experience." When ites tobat experience, his younger sister, Freya Moon, was above him; even when ites to their current "Stats". Russell grew up witnessing the efforts of his younger sister under the guidance of his mother and father, along with the pieces of advice that Freya absorbed. This includes the one that he recently told her, just a few days after they started living in their respective dormitory rooms in the Obelisk Academy. "...Although she will probably avoid, to some extent, interacting with ''them'', it will only be temporary. Russell mumbled while unconsciously caressing the top of the shell of the mysterious Egg that was sitting on hisp. He also thought previously that fate was ying pranks on him as he checked the ss where he was assigned, and mistakenly saw it as A-1, but after confirming, it was A-11. Then, when he saw for the first time where was the assigned ss of his younger sister, his mind froze. "It''s still ridiculous when I thought about it." It''s only a matter of time before Russell surpassed his younger sister when ites to overall "Stats". He knew it NOT because he used the Skill: Eye of Night (EX) that he received, rather, he remembered it when their parents asked someone to get their children''s Status Window information. As Status Appraisal Skills ¡ª the general ones that only see up to Standard Status Window ¡ª were very expensive to learn through purchasing Skillbooks, they were freely avable through Obelisk yer Association branches. The Obelisk yer Association, especially when the yer was about to enroll in a yer academy, freely conducts Status Window Appraisals. This process was done for the sole reason of giving pieces of advice to the parents of the child, although it''s still up to the parents and the child or yer that''s capable of thinking at that age. "It''s like a free check-up." Russell mumbled as random thoughts surfaced in his mind. "...Hmm... what''s next then..." He fell into deep thought as he muttered to himself; being used to talking to himself when he was alone. A personality that he seemed to inherit from his previous life as he was previously a shut-in stock trader, and at the same time, considered a pseudo-author because he didn''t get to publish his novel. "...Nothing more, butbat experience. That''s what I really need for now." Other than one''s "Rank" and "Stats", when ites to real-life battles, it was one''s experiences and execution of the skills that were two of the deciding factors to survive. But, it was only applied when the rank gap was not excessive, specifically, a "two" rank gap would suffice. Though when ites between S- rank or above, the gap was something like heaven and earth because ranks S- to SSS+ would certainly have more than enough life and death experiences. "Sigh... There''s nothing I can do for now." Letting out a sigh, Russell put the mysterious Egg ¡ª which he could not make out of meaning ¡ª inside his Dimensional Inventory, and then he took out an ominous-looking jar. ... The jar that he took out has its entire body dyed in dark blue and has an exterior design that''s very exquisite, along with intricately carved symbols on it just like the mysterious Egg. Its height was around 10 inches and has a mouth-like hole that was around 6 inches in diameter. Then, aside from some of the esoteric symbols, there''s one that Russell recognized that''s ced in the middle of the jar. It''s an "X" tilted by 45 degrees to the right; this symbol was quite deeply carvedpared to others as though it represented the "Abyss", and it emanated a more intense dark blue aura that resembled "Chaos". ''Is the Goddess of Night so bored that "She" made this...?'' He thought as he recalled the description that it was a jar that was personally made by the Goddess of Night while he admired the exterior design. "Hmm..." With his curiosity, Russell tried to cast his gaze inside the abyss-like mouth of the jar. Then, in just a few seconds, System messages appeared in front of him. ... [You have gazed in the "Nothingness"!] [Warning! You do not have enough Chaos in your body!] ... Although he didn''t know what exactly the System messages meant, he retracted his gaze from the hole of the jar as he felt like he would be consumed any seconds longer. But, the next System messages caused him to wear a surprised look as he read through them. ... [Items with Chaos origin that can bebined:] 1. Tainted Branch of Yggdrasil 2. Tainted Seed of Yggdrasil 3. Fruit of Chaos [Choose the items that you want tobine.] [After thebination, a random item will be generated.] ... Just after a few seconds, his surprised look suddenly shifted into a sour look because he remembered that his Luck was only a whopping "7", which somewhat signifies that he has more than enough chance of dying than winning a lottery. Being under the category of "Invariable Stats"; to increase the Luck that he has, Russell needed to at least sessfully trigger the desired oue he wanted when ites to something that concerned probability, but it does not apply to irrelevant probability such as ying a probability-based arcade forever wouldn''t increase his Luck stat. "Fruit of Chaos..." He mumbled as he read the items eligible forbination. The "Fruit of Chaos", though consumable, was something that Russell had no idea about. It seemed like the fruit that came out of the tree that presumably would bear out of the "Seed of Chaos", but he dismissed such a dangerous idea. It''s the instinct of trusting the "Fear of the Unknown" that would give him the chance to avoid the unexpected. "It''s not like it worked out previously, though." One of the reasons ¡ª apart from being an "Unknown Element" or something that would be impossible to cross his mind to exist in this world ¡ª he didn''t know about the Fruit of Chaos was since he didn''t expound in his unpublished novel the details about the Chaos Realm. ... ''Should I alsobine the Fruit of Chaos with the other two? ''Or should Ibine the tainted seed and branch first, and thenbine the result with the fruit...? ''What if the oue of the firstbination cannot be used in the jar?'' Numerous questions formed in his mind. "I''m grateful for these items, but my Luck..." He didn''t finish his words as he scratched his head in frustration. ... [The Night of Primordial Chaosughs at you, and says to try your luck!] "...Oh, hello, it''s been a while." He timidly muttered. It''s the first time, since he left the Hidden Dungeon, that he received a System''s message with the Goddess of Night in concern. For some reason, Russell feltfortable upon reading the System message that said that the Goddess of Night have been watching over him, a very unlike emotionpared to his previous encounter that almost left him dead in anxiety. ''...Is it because of the Symbol of Night...?'' He wondered as he randomly recalled something as he finished reading the System''s message. The Constetions that were eyeing this world, although the Emergence had happened, couldn''t fully interact with the people due to their "low" influence as Close Mystery Towers have yet to open. "...This is an ultimate gamble!" He firmly said at this deep in the night before he chose the items he intended tobine after some thinking. ... [You have chosen the following tobine:] 1. Tainted Branch of Yggdrasil 2. Tainted Seed of Yggdrasil 3. Fruit of Chaos [Combine?] [Yes or No?] Russell clicked "Yes" which appeared on the holographic screen. After that, the specific items that were mentioned above were released from his Dimensional Inventory and were consumed by the "Jar of Nothingness", which released itself on his hand as it started to float mid-air. [You havebined the following items: Tainted Branch of Yggdrasil, Tainted Seed of Yggdrasil, and the Fruit of Chaos.] [Your Trait: Nihility has taken effect!] [The Chaos Aura in the surroundings emanated by the items with Chaos Origins has beenpletely concealed!] [Your Luck unexpectedly strikes!] [You have acquired the "Dice of Chaos"!] [Your Luck increases by 1!] After thebination process, the Jar of Nothingness spat out three dice which he easily caught with his hands. These dice were dyed in dark blue, emanating an aura that resembled Chaos, and then, the jar floated inside his Dimensional Inventory as though it has a will on its own. [The Night of Primordial Chaos is deeply amazed by the result!] "...Is that... sarcasm...?" [The Night of Primordial Chaos giggles.] "...That was sarcasm!" He slightly grumbled, at the same time, he inspected what he acquired from thebination of the three specific items. ... [Dice of Chaos] The three dice that the [Night of Primordial Chaos] created out of boredom. The materials used in its creation are unknown. Rank: Ancient ssification: Misceneous Conditions of Use: - Profession: Mediator of Chaos. - Once every 15 days. Throwing Effects: 1. Throwing the Dice of Chaos in the ground will give the yer random items depending on the yer''s Luck. 2. The rank of the item will also be random. 3. Throwing "three dice" at the same time will give the yer a random weapon, armor, or crafting material. 4. Throwing "two dice" at the same time will give the yer a random Skillbook or Consumable item. 5. Throwing "a die" will give the yer a random Misceneous item. ... ''Is the Goddess trying to raise my Luck or what...?'' He inwardly thought as a chuckle escaped from his mouth before fiddling with the "Dice of Chaos" with his hands by throwing and catching them repeatedly until one of the dice slipped off his left hand, and fell to the floor. Ding-! [You have thrown the Dice of Chaos!] A notification from the System stopped him from reaching the fallen die on his dormitory''s floor as he looked at the System''s message he was suddenly notified of. "What!? That was counted!? [The Night of Primordial Chaos snickers at your idiocy!] "..." Russell''s mouth was agape as he read another System''s message with an exmation mark, which pointed to his behavior just now. Then, in his stupor, subsequent notifications followed with the System messages screened in front of his deep blue eyes. [A die was thrown! [A Misceneous item will be randomly given!] [Your Luck unexpectedly strikes!] [Your Luck increases by 1!] ... "Oh!" Russell reflexively gasped as he read the System messages, then, after a few seconds, the die on the ground rumbled as the air surrounding it vibrated, along with the dark blue aura that was released from it, forming something like a key. [You have acquired a ''Crystal Key''] And without intentionally inspecting the so-called "Crystal Key", its information appeared in front of him, along with other unexpected System messages. [Crystal Key] A crystal-colored key with unknown use. Rank: Ancient ssification: Misceneous [The "Jar of Nothingness" is reacting!] [The Key of Chaos, the Key of Tartarus, and the Key of Abaddon can bebined with the Crystal Key.] Forgetting the die on the floor, his deep blue eyes dted as he repeatedly rubbed them with his hands, processing what he just read. "W-what...?" Chapter 13 Jar Of Nothingness [2] [The Night of Primordial Chaos bes highly suspicious of your supposed-to-be-rotten Luck.] [The Night of Primordial Chaos advises you tobine the four keys.] ... "Suspicious...? I smell something here." Russell thought that the Goddess of Night became suspicious, but at the same time, advised him tobine the four keys. ''I won''t be surprised if the Goddess knew I would get a key. ''It''s not impossible... after all, these items came from "Her".'' ... [The Night of Primordial Chaos smiles mischievously.] ''Ha... I knew it.'' Without wasting any more time, he proceeded to take out the "Jar of Nothingness", as well as the "three" keys in his Dimensional Inventory which he acquired through the Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos. His Trait: Nihility was reminding him of the "concealment" of Chaos as any Chaos Miasma or expelled Chaos Aura was very problematic when it''s detected in the academy premises; unless it was from Monster Processing Facility or Laboratories, it wouldn''t be suspicious. Even without the order tobine the four keys, they already floated mid-air along with the Jar of Nothingness. Russell quickly scrutinized the physical features of the four keys. The so-called "Crystal Key" that he just acquired was a in-looking key that was transparent; the Key of Chaos contained a symbol that looked like a small moon; the Key of Tartarus was literally on fire, but it doesn''t damage anything physical, andstly, the Key of Abaddon has a dark physical feature, which exuded dark aura. After some time, he turned his attention to the holographic screen. [Would you like tobine the following items?] [Yes or No?] He pressed the "Yes" holographic button, and just like earlier, although the items were different this time, they were sucked by the "Jar of Nothingness" that began to wriggle mid-air. ... [The Crystal Key, Key of Chaos, Key of Tartarus, and Key of Abaddon will bebined!] [Thebination of materials is in harmony with each other!] [A specific item will be given!] As though Russell unknowingly met certain untold requirements, a specific item will be granted to him. ... [You have acquired the "True Key of Chaos"!] [True Key of Chaos] One of the keys of the [Night of Primordial Chaos] that holds mysterious power as it precedes the beginning of time, though this key is now considered ''useless'' by the [Night of Primordial Chaos]. Rank: ??? ssification: Misceneous Different usage: 1. ess to the ce called "Chaos Dungeons". 2. Opens the door of a specific "Close Mystery Tower". 3. ess to the ce: "Chaos Training Grounds". 4. Opens the entrance to the Tartarus and Abaddon''s Keep. 5. Unlocks any normal door or locked treasures. ... [You have acquired something that is extremely coveted by some gods and demons!] [The presence of the "True Key of Chaos" has beenpletely concealed from the prying eyes of some Constetions with your Trait: Nihility!] [You have acquired the Title: Holder of a True Key of Chaos!] [The Title: The One Who Witness the Impossible, The One Who Saw the Night up Close, and Holder of a True Key of Chaos are in harmony!] [The effects of the titles have been unlocked.] [You have acquired the Title: Resident of Chaos.] ... Russell''s mouth was agape as he stared at the numerous System messages that he received after he just decided tobine the four keys with the help of the Jar of Nothingness. He felt like he would pass out, at the same time, he felt like a jolt of lightning hit his head. He didn''t remember the previous two titles that he received upon the Goddess of Night''s materialization due to being extremely anxious and his thoughts were clouded by death at that time. With the bountiful rewards that he received; the Skillbooks, Equipment Set, Skills, Traits, and Authority, although he checked his Status Window, he didn''t take note of the titles he acquired, instead, he paid attention to the leap of his overall stats except for Luck and Charm, as well as the Traits, Skills, and Authority. He felt incredibly oblivious to the Title in his Status Window that was ced just below his name. He let out a self-deprecatingugh as he recalled the System''s message earlier about his idiocy. But after some time, heposed himself, forgetting the frivolous matters, and he read thoroughly the System messages that he received. ... [Resident of Chaos] The [Night of Primordial Chaos] considers you to be a resident of Chaos. Rank: Forbidden Effects: - All Variable Stat increases by 20 - Chaos Power increases by 100 - Enhanced proficiency of Chaos-rted "passive" skills by 100% - Amplifies the power of Chaos-rted "active" skills by 100% ... "F*cking hell." His mind couldn''t catch up to process what he just read, or even scream the curse of disbelief with a mix of exhration that escaped from his mouth. "This..." Russell looked at the changes that were happening in his body as a dark blue aura emanated from his body, along with the System''s message about his Trait: Nihility that''s concealing the emanating Chaos. Even though he hasn''t read yet the other three titles, he already felt their impact on his body as though he was on steroids at this very moment. After a few seconds of sessfully manifesting the effects in his body, he then read the descriptions of the other three titles he didn''t manage to read as he leaned his back to the wall of his dormitory room, seemingly getting tired of just sitting on the bed with his feet on the floor. ... [The One Who Witness the Impossible] You have witnessed the materialization of the Primordial Goddess, an event that is not seen since the creation of the world. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - All Variable Stat increases by 20 - Willpower and Tenacity increase by 30 - Chaos Power increased by 100 - Gain the Skill: Gaze of the Abyss [The One Who Saw the Night up Close] You have seen the Primordial Goddess of Night personally that even some Constetions are not aware of such an existence. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 20 - Willpower and Tenacity increased by 30 - Chaos Power increased by 150 - Amplifies the power of Authority: Void of Chaos [Holder of a True Key of Chaos] You have be a holder of a true key that is very limited in number in the Great Universe. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - Chaos Power increased by 20 - Agility increased by 10 ... "...Sorry, Freya." He muttered poignantly as he was reminded by his younger sister, that, at this very moment, have overall stats that are lower than his. Though he acknowledged that when ites tobat, she was more experienced. "Sigh..." After taking a deep breath, he stood up from his bed, and picked up the die of Chaos that slipped off his leftnd earlier, then, as he''s feeling like doing it, he bowed down to whatever direction he was facing as he genuinely thanked the Goddess of Night with everything that had transpired even though the clear reasons "why" were something that''s still enigmatic to him. Ding-! As he did that, a notification sounded in his ears, prompting him to look at the holographic screen as he slowly raised his bowing head. [The Night of Primordial Chaos is greatly embarrassed by what you are doing and tells you to stop!] A chuckle has been painted on his expression before he went to bed to rest his exhausted mind. ... May 16, 2062 Over a week had passed since Russell''s dungeon adventure. The Goddess of Night barely talks through the System for some reason, maybe because "She" was deeply embarrassed by Russell''s action of showing reverence even though he knew that "She" despised such behavior. The dinner had just passed as he and Freya went their separate ways. Russell ¡ª who was sitting on his bed at this moment ¡ª checked every item in his Dimensional Inventory as he''s preparing to venture or visit for the first time the "Chaos Training Grounds" that''s essible to him through the True Key of Chaos. He also confirmed that he couldn''t go yet to a Chaos Dungeon as he was pretty certain that he would get killed easily ¡ª "Fear of the Unknown" was better than "Curiosity". In this world that he somewhat designed, Russell knew that venturing into some ce without prior knowledge and preparation was tantamount to suicide. It''s one of the dumb ways to die in the world where Constetions, System, Strayed and Tower Dungeons exist. Apart from being oblivious to the Chaos Dungeons, their ranks were high... That even if it''s notbeled as "Chaos", Russell wouldn''t dare to raid one with himself. ... [Chaos Dungeons] Dungeons that were created by the [Night of Primordial Chaos] on a whim a very, very long time ago. [Choose the Chaos Dungeon to be essed:] 1. Lair of the Rabids (C) 2. Fog of the Willow Tree (C+) 3. Desert of Wandering Stars (B+) 4. Tomb of the Lost (A) 5. Forest of Nothingness (A+) 6. ¡­ 7. ... 8. ... ... There were countless Chaos Dungeons that the Goddess of Night created. Russell didn''t bother to check everything as he instinctively knew that the more he browsed down, the rank of the Chaos Dungeon seemed to increase. With the increased Growth Rate, Russell calcted, that he would be able to go to the Chaos Dungeon: Lair of the Rabids (C) in a few months, if and only if everything goes smoothly. But he was reluctant he would reach at least C- rank in a few months due to one reason; his very own unpublished "failed" novel. Although his increase in Growth Rate was a blessing, it would still certainly take arduous effort to increase his stats through training... even with the good news included, which was the existence of the Chaos Training Grounds that he could ess anytime, same with the Chaos Dungeons, with the True Key of Chaos. ... Sitting on his bed after sorting everything out in his Dimensional Inventory, he took out the True Key of Chaos as the System reminded him again of his Trait: Nihility. In the holographic screen in front of him, he checked the information about the Chaos Training Grounds as he held with his right hand the True Key of Chaos ¡ª a majestic key that depicts the sea of stars. [Chaos Training Grounds] pAn,Da-n0v e1,c It was a ce that had been used by the [Night of Primordial Chaos] during "Her" boredom or if "She" wanted to train "Her" swordsmanship. ¨C When using the Chaos Training Grounds, the yer will benefit from the following: 1. Stamina Regeneration increases by 500%. 2. Mana Regeneration increases by 400%. 3. Chaos Power regeneration increases by 300%. 4. Growth speed increases by 200% (2 times). 5. You can set the time difference between your world and the Chaos Training Grounds: Minimum Time Difference: 1 is to 3 Maximum Time Difference: 1 is to 31 6. You cannot die in this ce. ... After reading the Chaos Training Grounds information, he recalled what he asked about with the Goddess of Night... If he could bring more people to the Chaos Training Grounds, and he received a positive reply, though he needed to use to the person he wanted to bring the Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX) he received. It would grant them the Trait: Chaos, making thempatible with Chaos Miasma, or else, without it, they would suffocate or be something unimaginable and die. "10 P.M...., I guess it''s still alright to try it." Checking the time in his smartwatch, he muttered softly. Although it''s been a week since he acquired the True Key of Chaos, it''s only at this time that he would attempt to enter the Chaos Training Grounds. "This is it! Whoo..." He stood up from his bed as he felt a myriad of emotions; ted, anxious, and excited. Prepared with some cheap meals he bought earlier, along with Dimensional Water Bottle (30L) he bought at yer General Store ¡ª Russell thrust the True Key of Chaos through space, then a crack appeared as though the space was made of fragile ss. He looked at the dark blue Portal that appeared before him which depicted the deepness of the night, as well as the starry sky. Then, he slowly walked through it as the dark blue Portal which resembled a gxy of stars, sucked his entire being as though he became formless. [You have essed the Chaos Training Grounds.] Chapter 14 Chaos Training Grounds [1] With the sound of the tearing of space, in a lonely, unknown, cold, and yet an ethereal ce where the night was eternal, Russell Moon arrived at the Chaos Training Grounds, recognizing the different scenery that screened in his profound vision, thanks to his Trait: Under the Night. While in his stupor, notifications sounded in his ears, which jolted him awake. ... [You have arrived at Chaos Training Grounds.] [Your Stamina Regeneration increases by 500%.] [Mana Regeneration increases by 400%.] [Chaos Power regeneration increases by 300%.] [Growth speed increased by 200%.] [You have set the Time Difference ratio as 1 to 3.] [You cannot die in this ce.] ... Russell didn''t use the 1:31 Time Difference, at least not this time because he didn''t want to look older quickly the moment he returned to Earth. "...It''s fine for now. 1 Earth day, 3 Chaos Training Grounds days. "...I don''t even know where in the Chaos Realm is this ce... or if it''s even in the Chaos Realm. "...Salute to me, I guess." His voice, although he only muttered whilempooning himself, reverberated throughout the Chaos Training Grounds. He felt cold, but for some inexplicable reason, he also felt warm as though it would create an unknown storm. Ding-! "...Huh...?" He wondered at the seeminglyte notification from the System before he checked it. [The mysterious power of the "Symbol of Night" has given you the Trait: Chaos.] "W-what...?" He didn''t know how to react as he btedly realized that he didn''t have the Trait: Chaos even after his sessful contract making, as well as Profession Evolution, and even though he has a Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX). "That''s ironic... "But, what''s the use of it though...?" Due to his Title: Resident of Chaos, as well as the mysterious "Symbol of Night", he thought that he wouldn''t need such a trait anymore. [Due to the existence of the "Symbol of Night", the Mediator of Chaos'' Trait: Chaos will be strengthened.] [Apart from thepatibility with Chaos, the Mediator of Chaos'' ability to absorb the Chaos Miasma will slightly be strengthened.] ording to what Russell knew, Chaos Miasma was the Chaos in the surroundings, while Chaos Aura was the Chaos that''s circting inside one''s body. The moment the Chaos in one''s body escaped or leaked, it would be considered Chaos Miasma from that moment onwards. That''s why ording to Emmanuel Lyncoster''s Encyclopedia of the Emergence, the definition of Chaos Miasma ¡ª though not thoroughly exined as humanity presently didn''t have much knowledge about it ¡ª only says that "You have killed a monster with abundant Chaos Miasma". But, it means that the Chaos Aura inside the monster escaped upon its death, turning into Chaos Miasma. Although it''s dangerous to some extent ¡ª even if it''s not forcefully injected into one''s body ¡ª it was manageable due to the existence of the Support-type Healer Professions. "System... how much it was strengthened...?" Russell asked curiously the System. [1%.] His deep blue eyes constricted at the sinct answer of the System before his expression turned into a frown. ''...Is the Goddess of Night ying pranks with me...?'' He almost face-palmed at the thought as he recalled what kind of skill was about the absorption of Chaos Miasma; Calm of the Shadows (Passive) (EX). "...Whatever." He grumbled before looking around the ce he arrived at. It''s a wide and massive square-shaped arena that''s around 50 square meters, which was situated in the middle of nowhere in a literal sense. It''s a roofless training ground where the dark sky, along with resplendent stars could be seen. Surprisingly, there were walls on the four corners outside of the arena ¡ª where normal-looking benches and weapons could be seen ¡ª but these corners looked like thick curtains made of small gxies. ''It looks like the entire ce is hovering above a void.'' Russell thought inwardly as he admired the scenery as though he was seeing something that could only be seen with LSD drugs in his previous life. As his gaze darted around, he felt shivers down his spine as he looked again at the dark sky. He suddenly felt like he was being watched by the dazzling stars. ''...But that''s impossible though.'' He firmly convinced himself that the stars above weren''t some Constetions due to one reason: The Goddess of Night''s existence was veiled in utter mystery. ... "I should start training." Removing his top, he was only left with shorts and underwear. He didn''t mind the coldness of the atmosphere, which was somehow fine, like a normal cold night. "I need to master the Basic Swordsmanship and Scythemanship first before I start with the swordsmanship and scythemanship that "She" gave me." He mumbled before he did some stretching before he went from inside of the arena to the weapon section outside, where the wooden swords, along with different kinds of weapons were hanging undisturbed. After some time, he inspected the training sword that he picked. ... [Elderwood Training Sword] A wooden sword crafted by a subordinate of the [Night of Primordial Chaos]. It is not easily broken even with 1 million swings as it is made from ancient material: Elderwood. Rank: Mythic ssification: Weapon Enchantment: ¨C Weight Adjustment Effect: The weight of the sword can be heavier the more mana you inject into it. ¨C Bound of Origin Effect: This sword only belongs to Chaos Training Grounds and cannot be taken to any world. ... "The heck...? A Mythical wooden training sword...?" Russell became curious about the identity of the one who made such a monstrous thing, but somehow, he has an idea about its maker. "It''s such a shame, though. I can''t take it back with me. "...Well, I''d certainly go to some interrogation if I bring a wooden sword that''s a Mythic in rank." He mumbled before he tried a few swings of the Mythical wooden sword just to get the hang of it. Then, after some time, he proceeded to approach one of the training dummies that were situated on the four corners of the arena. "W-what...? Again...?" He wore a bbergasted look as he inspected the dummy that looked like a stickman that has four wooden supporting legs, and two wooden hands. ... [Refined Elderwood Training Dummy] A training dummy once used by the [Night of Primordial Chaos]. It can withstand a million shes unless you''re the Goddess of Night that can break this in one swing without even touching it. Rank: Mythic ssification: ??? Enchantment: ¨C Infinite Regeneration Effect: The training dummy will infinitely regenerate unless it breaks from one swing. ¨C Counterattack Effect: The training dummy is an inanimate object with a consciousness that will counterattack the moment you attack it. Be careful! Intrinsic Effect: ¨C Defense Mechanism Effect: As the Elderwood''s Mana Conductivity is one of the highest, it can absorb attacks with Mana. ... ''What overpowered enchantments! ''...and it can counterattack, too...? I wonder if it can move from its position...? But based on its physical features, it''s like a body of wood with four legs that are stuck on the ground with two wooden hands.'' He thought in admiration as he scrutinized the dummy''s features. "Well, let''s remember what I previously learned first." After a few seconds, he spoke casually as he took his distance from the Elderwood Training Dummy. ... Apart from the few swings he did earlier to get the feel of the wooden sword, Russell started to perform the basic movements of swordsmanship just like simple directional shes; diagonal, horizontal, and vertical shes. Then, he performed the basic stances,bined with directional shes. He put his left foot forward, held the sword in an "inside right" stance, and thrust it into the Elderwood Training Dummy. Whoosh-! Stab-! Bam-! The wind that''s existing in this ce seemed to give a path to his wooden sword that he thrust. He repeated the process in different stances as he noticed something. The Elderwood Training Dummy''s Enchantment: Counterattack wasn''t activating for reasons unknown to him. ''Is it because I didn''t inject Mana in the wooden sword...?'' He wondered before proceeding to attack, but this time, he injected a miniscule amount of Mana, not Chaos Aura, in the Elderwood Training Sword. ... After an unknown period of time, with his increased proficiency thanks to the Passive Skill: Swordsmanship of the Night (Zenith), and Weapon Mastery (S+), along with the Title: Resident of Chaos (Forbidden) that enhanced his Chaos-rted Passive Skills, giving him a total of staggering 1200% sword weapon proficiency. With this amount of proficiency, along with his efforts, and due to the Chaos Training Grounds benefits, his training was surely paying off as sounds of notifications rang in his head as he took some time to check them even though he was currently training, dodging some Mana st that came out of the Elderwood Training Dummy. ... [You have been training for 4 Earth hours.] [You have been training for 12 Chaos Training Grounds hours.] [Your Basic Swordsmanship (F-) has leveled up.] [Your ''Basic Swordsmanship (F-) has leveled up....] [Your Basic Swordsmanship (F-) has reached level 10!] [You have acquired the ''Intermediate Swordsmanship'' (E+).] ... [Your Intermediate Swordsmanship (E+) has leveled up.] [Your Intermediate Swordsmanship (E+) has leveled up.] ¡­ With the specific benefit of the Chaos Training Grounds, the Stamina Regeneration; Russell could recover quickly just after a few minutes of rest without even using the Lowest-Grade Stamina Potions that he didn''t manage to use during his previous excursion. During his training, he''s bncing his learning by changing weapons; from a wooden sword to a wooden scythe alternatively. He kept hacking and hacking the Elderwood Training Dummy while he saw an opening due to its rain of Mana st that wasing at him at an insane speed. He barely dodged them to the point that if he didn''t have a weapon to block the attack, he would certainly be hit. ... [You have been training for 8 Earth hours.] [You have been training for 24 Chaos Training Grounds hours.] [Your Basic Scythemanship (F-) has leveled up.] [Your Basic Scythemanship (F-) has leveled up....] [Your Basic Scythemanship (F-) has reached level 10!] [You have acquired ''Intermediate Scythemanship'' (E+).] ... [Your Intermediate Scythemanship (E+) has leveled up.] [Your Intermediate Scythemanship (E+) has leveled up.] [Your Agility has increased by 2.] [Your Dexterity increases by 1.] [Your Intermediate Swordsmanship (E+) has leveled up.] [Your Intermediate Scythemanship (E+) has leveled up.] ... "...Sh*t! It''s already morning." Bam-! He muttered as a Mana st that never stops charging. Although the Stamina Regeneration of 500% greatly helped him, his mental exhaustion was something else as his mind seemed to turn clouded due to sleep deprivation. As if a ridiculous idea surfaced in his mind, a grin formed in his mouth before augh escaped from it. "...Hahaha!" What he thought about was sleeping in the Chaos Training Grounds with the Time Difference of 1:3. For some reason, he couldn''t change the Time Difference when he was at the Chaos Training Grounds. ''1 to 3 is still oka¨C'' Bam-! "Argh!" Hisugh and thoughts were broken by the Mana st that hit his abdomen, causing him to lose consciousness as though the Elderwood Training Dummy had told him to sleep. ... After an unknown period of time, Russell woke up with slightly throbbing pain in his abdomen. "...W-what just happened...?" Lying on the solid ground outside of the arena as he was sent flying by an unbelievable power of the Mana st, he looked around as seemingly endless notifications rang in his ears. [Your HP has dropped by significant value!] [Warning! Warning! The Enchantment: Counterattack of the Elderwood Training Dummy you previously attacked with Mana-imbued Elderwood Training Sword will be triggered in 5 seconds due to the attacker being awake!] [5... 4...] He was jolted awake as he read the System messages. "F*ck! I''ll die if I get hit in the head!" He grumbled as he started to run even though he was outside of the arena. He had no idea how to stop the barrage of Mana st from the Elderwood Training Dummy ¡ª which was firing multidirectional. As he ran for his life with his low HP that was slowly regenerating, he took out a Lowest-Grade Health Potion which he also didn''t manage to use on his previous excursion, and quickly drank it. [You have consumed a Lowest-Grade Health Potion.] [Health Points will be regenerated by 10% in 10 seconds.] ... After recovering after a few seconds, along with the Mana st that''s acting like it''s aiming for his life, he skimmed some System messages he didn''t manage to read. [You have been training for 10 Earth hours.] [You have been training for 30 Chaos Training Grounds hours.] As he skimmed and quickly process the information, he quickly concludes that even though he was not doing physicalbat training, it was still counted as training just like when he was sleeping or rather was knocked out to sleep. ... Bam-! "F*ck! How do I stop this!?" His shout reverberated throughout the training grounds. Then, he attempted to cleave it down as hard as possible. He ran into the arena, quickly reaching the wooden training dummy that was endlessly firing Mana st, which he skillfully dodged, then he raised the wooden training sword and cleaved it down as he jumped mid-air. Bam-! But, to no avail, it didn''t stop its assault, causing Russell to frown before he drank all of his remaining Lowest-Grade Health Potions, which made his Health Points almost full. Russell did every possible way to dodge the iing attacks, such as rolling to the ground, sliding with his butt, or even backflipping that almost broke his spine, and parrying the Mana st with the use of a Mythical wooden training sword that seemed like infinite durability. ... "Help-!!! "Goddess... Help-!!!" He shouted for help as he never had room to take out the True Key of Chaos to attempt to go back. "My Goddess... Help-! F*ck-" Bam-! He didn''t finish his words as he dodged another Mana st, but then, a sound of hope entered Russell''s ears as he instantly check the System''s message and quickly read it. Ding-! [The Night of Primordial Chaos says to simply drop your weapon.] "...Is it that simple!? Anyway, thank you so much!" Without understanding the hidden mechanism behind the "Her" words, Russell dropped the weapon on the arena as he was about 3 meters away from the aggressive Elderwood Training Dummy that he had some skirmish. Hngggg-! Hngggg-! But, then, he heard the continuous charging of numerous Mana st from the distance. "FUCCKKK-!" He cursed out loud as he realized what just happened as the first charge of Mana st started to fly towards him. He even attempted to pick up the wooden training sword on the ground to parry the iing projectile because its speed, without the help of a weapon, was something he could barely dodge. Bam-! Just before he was about to lean down, it hits his Sr Plexus, sending him flying before he passed out. ... Somewhere in the void of the Chaos Training Grounds. A small, burly man which resembles a dwarf that has long silver hair, a long silver beard, and deep red-orange eyes face-palmed as he saw the man in the arena get struck by a Mana st from the training dummy that "He" made. "The Goddess hasn''t changed at all." "He" muttered before the luster of "His" red-orange eyes intensified. [Activating Skill: Eyes That Melts the Hidden.] Chapter 15 Chaos Training Grounds [2] "Argh...! F*ck!" Ding-! Ding-! Russell woke up from the second incident if he could call it that. He was bombarded by numerous sounds of notifications, but due to the mild throbbing pain in his sr plexus, he repeatedly rubbed it, not minding the series of System messages that were waiting to be read. After some time, he noticed that the Elderwood Training Dummy hasn''t been firing anymore even though he''s been awake for more than 5 seconds. "W-what happened...?" He wondered before he looked from outside of the arena as he mustered up his strength that fully recovered due to high Stamina Regeneration; only the pain in his sr plexus that was hit by the Mana st was lingering. "...It''s quiet. How did it stop...? Did "She" help me?" He was extremely reluctant about such help as he was a victim of a very dangerous prank that just happened. "...Sigh..." Nheless, he heaved up a sigh of relief. ... [You have been training for 16 Earth hours.] [You have been training for 48 Chaos Training Grounds hours.] [The Constetion, ''One Who Eats Fire for Breakfast'' has used a cosmic Skill: Eyes That Melts the Hidden (??)] [The Chaos Treasures that had been bestowed to you by the Constetion, Night of Primordial Chaos'' has been partially unlocked!] [The artifact of Chaos Origin: Mask of Night (EX) has fully unlocked its functions!] ... [Mask of Night] One of the treasures hidden in the Chaos Realm that symbolizes the power of night. It was made from unknown, universal materials. Rank: Mythical ssification: Artifact Enchantment: ¨C Shadow Disguise Effect: The user can change his/her face and voice along with his/her whole physique. It is the perfect item for disguise as it can only be seen through the use of Skill or Artifact with the rank of SSS+ or above. ¨C Shadow Encroachment Effect: Allows the user to move into shadows, and move faster due to the bonus increase in Agility by 100, and 300 when it''s nighttime. The bonus Agility only takes effect when the user blends in the shadows. ¨C Night Vision Effect: The user will see better through the dark. ¨C Two-in-One. The user has the choice to just wear the mask as it is, or use it with the Shadow Disguise. Intrinsic Effect: ¨C Twinkling Stardust Upon wearing, Agility increases by 50, and Charm either increases or decreases depending on the face of the disguise the user will put on. ... Russell ¡ª who was now sitting on one of the benches that were spread on the corners of the training ground ¡ª read the notifications with his deep blue eyes that alternatively dted and constricted as though there was a mosquito distracting his vision. Apart from the unexpected notifications, his heart thumped as he read that he''s been in the Chaos Training Grounds for two days, 16 Earth hours. "It''s currently evening there. F*ck!" He quickly recovered from his stupor due to unexpected System messages as he took out the True Key of Chaos in his Dimensional Inventory, and then thrust it into space. "Eh...? Why the hell it''s not working?!" Ding-! As though the System has beenmanded to answer him, he received a notification, prompting him to look at it as he stopped what he was doing. [Would you like to go back to Earth?] [Yes or No?] The veins on his forehead bulged as he read the System''s message. "F*CK!" ''Are you f*cking telling me that going back to Earth is possible without the key!?'' "Yes!" But, amidst his thoughts, while feeling mad due to the seemingly unfair treatment he''s receiving, hemanded the System to send him back. [You are now returning to Earth.] At that moment, without thrusting the True Key of Chaos into space, a Portal simr to before he went to the Chaos Training Grounds opened and sucked him inside without walking through it. ... [You have arrived on Earth.] His vision warped as though the previous scenery was just a painting, and the dormitory room he was in came into his view. He slowly walked by the window and saw the bluish moon hanging above the sky, along with the starry night sky. "8:42 P.M... Ah sh*t! Freya!" He was concerned about Freya looking for him again as he checked the text messages on his smartwatch. ... Received: 8:32 A.M. - "Oppa, I won''t be able to have lunch with you today. I''ll be bonding with the friend I made. You should make one, too, you know! Stop being alone most of the time. Anyway, eat your breakfast, or else I''ll kill you myself! (Knife emoji) Received: 1:12 P.M - "Oppa, I hope you have eaten your lunch. By the way, I introduced my newly made friend to the SET A we''re always having. Guess what? She likes it, too! Received: 6:07 P.M. - "Oppa! You seemed busy or maybe still asleep? That''s why you are not replying even just by saying ''okay''? Just what the hell did you do again, huh!? Anyway, I won''t be able to have dinner with you. Guess what, I''m pretty close with someone now, don''t be jealous, Oppa, okay? Hahaha! (Bleh emoji) ... Russell smiled upon reading the messages of his younger sister, but at the same time, he couldn''t help but feel some innocence in her actions. He also felt worried that maybe his younger sister looked for him after her dinner as herst text message was sent at 6:07 P.M. Apart from that, he was reminded that he never ate or drink water for two days straight due to the endless bombardment of the training dummy, but it was thanks to the Stamina Regeneration and Lowest-Grade Health Potion that he still felt energized. "But nothing beats food." He muttered before tidying himself up for a few minutes, then he left to grab some meal on the Obelisk Cafeteria One. ... As he left his dormitory room, he heard some murmurs about him just like usual, especially when he was not around his younger sister. But, having a 33-year-old mentality with the exception of his age in this world, he knew that there was nothing good in fighting back against some immature kids on the academy premises. After riding the High-Speed Elevator, he arrived at the ground floor of the Andromeda Building in less than 5 seconds, then as he walked to its entrance, he saw in his profound vision his younger sister, talking and walking with a very cheerful girl. ''Is she Freya''s ssmate?'' He inwardly thought before smiling and then avoiding going in their direction, not wanting to disturb his younger sister. ... After a few minutes, he''s done eating his meal, aside from what he previously bought, and then brought in the Chaos Training Grounds that became stuck in his Dimensional Inventory. Sitting on his bed at this moment, without opening the lights of his dormitory room, he thoroughly inspected the items that have their functions either partially or fully unlocked. "What a great artifact!" Apart from the stats that could be hardly acquired from arduous training and easily acquired from the rare-to-find Consumable Treasures just like the Seed of Chaos, one of the easiest ways, especially if a person has unimaginable riches was to buy artifacts, weapons, or armor with high rarity. These artifacts, weapons, or armor could make up for the lost statspared to others to instantly boosts their ranks. An artifact that acts like equipment always has bonus stats, while weapons and armor only possessed bonus stats when their rarity ranges from Rare and above. It''s like Pay-To-Win for rich people that take them extra mile in bing strong due to their capacity to purchase high rarity equipment. But, there''s a downside to it... It''s the real-lifebat experience and mental fortitude. The bonus stats of artifacts, weapons, or armor only epasses the Variable Stats category, which means that increasing Invariable Stats such as Willpower and Tenacity required arduous training or effort to increase. That''s also the reason why even rich people who seemed to hoard high-rarity artifacts, weapons, or armor were in great danger if they have less to no real-lifebat experiences. Because a naturally strong yer who had an intimidating aura could mess with the mind and will of the opponent that only became strong from equipment. The kind of yers that should be truly feared were the ones who reached their rank through efforts and by going through a series of life-and-death situations, especially when they only possessed a few resources. "...But there are perfect resources I have right now." Russell spoke, cutting off his own thoughts. What he referred to were the resources that "follow" the yer''s growth. They were the Equipment Set that he acquired from the Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos. He then inspected the items he previously couldn''t inspect. ... [Sword of ''???''] A sword that will follow its user to the ends of time. It''s made from "Nothingness". The sword has been ''bound'' to the yer: Russell Moon. Rank: Normal (Growth) ssification: Weapon Element Type: Chaos Enchantment: ¨C Eater of Power It consumes the Mana, Unholy Power, Holy Power, and Chaos Miasma of the beings that are killed with this sword. Synchronized with the Scythe of ''???''. - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] Intrinsic Effect: - Upon wielding, all Variable Stats increases by 50. - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] ... Russell also checked the Scythe of ''???'', which surprised him somehow as it has the same description as the Sword of ''???''. It also has the same Enchantment and Intrinsic Effect. The only difference was that he couldn''t use both weapons at the same time. "Are these connected like twins...?", He mumbled as he read the "Synchronized" in the description of Enchantment: "Eater of Power". It would divide the consumed Mana, Holy or Divine Power, Unholy Power, and Chaos Miasma into two. It means that no matter what weapon between the two he used tost hit something, these weapons wound rank up at the same time. Apart from the weapons that had their names still nk, the Equipment Set, from Armor of ''???'' to Boots of ''???'' were also Growth items that were bound to him. And to rank them up, he needed Monster Cores or Magic Stones. "I wonder how strong these would be if I rank them up to their end rarity. "Hmm... System, can you tell me their end rarity?" [You are not qualified to know such information.] "Knew it." A chuckle escaped from his mouth as various thoughts surfaced in his mind after he browsed the partially unlocked equipment. ... The Growth Equipment or items that ranks up were the ideal items that a yer could have. This follows the journey of the yer as the said individual grows stronger. These kinds of equipment were highly sought, especially if the indicated growth limit was S- rank or above, which costs hundreds of billions of Obel. "...Sigh, I guess it''s time to rest." Although various thoughts were flowing in his mind about the System itself, the Goddess of Night, the end rarity of the Growth Equipment he acquired, and so on. "...Hmm, if I''m not wrong, it''s the God of Fire and Forge that partially unlocked my Equipment''s information." He softly muttered while he slumped on his bed with both his hands at the back of his head as he gradually fell asleep. ... The next day, Russell did his morning routine; exercised, and ate his breakfast. Although he was quite thin in his previous life, he loves working out. Tap. Tap. As he sat on the couch of his dormitory room, he texted his younger sister. ... Sent: 6:25 A.M. - "Freya, I''ll be out for some time. So... enjoy your lunch and dinner with your new friend. I''ll be enjoying my time alone before the sses start, and don''t worry, I still have some spare money." ... Russell only told her half the truth. Although he''s going out, which was true in some sense, he''s not going outside the academy premises, but rather to the Chaos Training Grounds. Surprisingly, he received a Freya this early in the morning just after a few minutes he sent the message. ... pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m Received: 6:34 A.M - "I just woke up, Oppa. Good morning. Anyway, okay, just take care. I was nning to introduce my new friend to you, but she''s shy so... probably next time." ... Russell and Freya were very close siblings, but what the former was d about when ites to his younger sister''s personality was that... she was not the super clingy type of sister that wanted to be always with her brother. He didn''t reply as he took out the True Key of Chaos after doing a quick check of his Dimensional Inventory''s contents. Then, just like yesterday, a torn fabric of space as though it was a broken ss appeared in his dormitory room. ... [You have arrived at the Chaos Training Grounds.] [The Time Difference ratio is 1:3.] Russell didn''t set the ratio any higher because he thought that he might experience again being knocked out for some time. Then, he looked around in search of a possible individual that partially unlocked his equipment except for the Mask of Night (Mythical) which was fully unlocked. Without seeing anyone, he walked towards the certain training dummy. "I''llbel you as ETD 1." He mumbled as he reached the Elderwood Training Dummy that almost killed him. He was just about to take the Sword of ''???'' in his Dimensional Inventory, but he received a prompt from the System. [It is not rmended to use the Sword of ''???'' against the Elderwood Training Dummy due to its current low rank.] "...Is that so... Alright, wooden sword it is!" After walking for a few seconds to pick up an Elderwood Training Sword, he quickly proceeded to cleave down ETD 1 or the Elderwood Training Dummy 1. Without imbuing Mana to the wooden sword, due to his pettiness, Russell beat the crap out of ETD 1 which has its Enchantment: Counterattack disabled. Bam-! Bam-! "...Hah..." After some time, he stopped his little revenge as various thoughts surfaced in his mind. ''I will needpanions in the future.'' He knew that the future that awaits this world was something that couldn''t be shoulder by a man alone. The names of the characters that barely appeared in his unpublished novel or the characters under the "Untouched Elements" category surfaced in his mind. "...But for now, this will be mypanion." As he learned a summoning skill, he instinctively knew what actions needed to proceed. He took out the Scythe of ''???'' as he activated the skill he received after his Profession Evolution. [Activating the Skill: Alien Call (EX).] Chapter 16 Chaos Slime [1] Upon Russell''s activation of his summoning skill, as he held the Scythe of ''???'' with his two hands, aplicated blue magic circle with unknown symbols written on them appeared on the floor of the training ground, at least a meter away from where he was standing. It''s a fluid-like creature with a light blue circr body. It has no eyes, no nose, no mouth, and no limbs. Then, a core (not a Monster Core or Magic Stone), acting as its source of life was hidden in its body as the body was opaque in nature. One could only know about it when they studied the creature''s biology or they previously encountered such a creature. Russell then inspected the summoned creature. ... [Blue Slime] The considered weakest creature known in existence. It possesses the water element attribute and is a very flexible creature. Rank: F+ ssification: Slime of Water Family ¨C STATS: HP: 220 SP: 220 MP: 240 STR: 2 (+20) DEX: 2 (+20) CON: 2 (+20) AGI: 2 (+20) VIT: 2 (+20) MANA: 4 (+20) Skills: Water st (Lvl. 0) A skillmonly possessed by slimes that belongs to the Water Family. Rank: F- Cost: 10MP Effect: Fires a circr water st made from mana ... Russell looked at the blue slime that was bouncing with its body on the ground as though it has a trait of buoyancy. It looked at him with its nonexistent eyes, awaiting the order of its master. As he inspected it, he admired the stats of the summoned creature as it was something that one could barely see with his current rank. If he summoned the blue slime with its current stats while he''s in the Obelisk Academy, it would undoubtedly cause an uproar due to the stereotype that exists against the yers with Summoner professions. Summoners weren''t highly regarded in this world with multiple and seemingly countless professions. They were like Beast Tamers in general, but the only difference was that Beast Tamers were only limited in controlling Monster Beasts. There were various reasons for such a stereotype; first, raising a Summoner was a very costly thing to do as the summoned creatures needed a Monster Core or Magic Stones as their food for their growth, and second, although it''s a profession that''s called Summoner, the summoned creatures, if they died in battle or any other possible reasons, would not be able to be summoned again. The difference between the Monster Cores and Magic Stones was that Monster Cores could only be acquired upon defeating a "Boss Monster", while the Magic Stones could either be acquired from defeating Normal monsters or discovering a mining site inside the Strayed Dungeon ¡ª which only happens with a very low chance. The two above-mentioned reasons were the causes why even most Guilds barely to never recruit a Summoner. The only way a Summoner somehow gets inside a Guild was when the yer has another profession just like how Russell was previously a triple-profession yer. ... After almost a minute of being lost in thoughts, Russell ordered the blue slime to fire a Water st to the Elderwood Training Dummy which hebeled as ETD 1. Due to the increase in stats of the blue slime, its Water st power was unordinarypared to other normal slimes in general. Bam-! Preparing for the reaction of ETD 1, Russell raised his wooden sword, but his deep blue eyes constricted as the training dummy didn''t react in any way. He then checked its information to see if there were any changes happened just like how some of his acquired equipment has been unlocked due to a certain Constetion. ... [Refined Elder Wood Training Dummy] A training dummy once used by the [Night of Primordial Chaos]. It can withstand a million shes unless you''re the Goddess of Night that can break this in one swing without even touching it. Rank: Mythical Enchantment: ¨C Infinite Regeneration Effect: The training dummy will infinitely regenerate unless it breaks from one swing. ¨C Counterattack Effect: The dummy is an inanimate object with a consciousness that will counterattack the moment you attack it. Be careful! Intrinsic Effect: ¨C Defense Mechanism Effect: As the elder wood''s mana conductivity is one of the highest, it can absorb attacks with mana. ... "The hell...? Nothing changed..." Russell didn''t let his guard down, assuming that he''d get attacked if he let his guard down. He then ordered again the blue slime until its Mana waspletely depleted, but still, even with the Water st that''s been used with the help of Mana, the Enchantment: Counterattack of ETD 1 didn''t trigger. "Recall." He quickly recalled the exhausted blue smile with a frown on his face before taking out the Crude Shortsword (Normal) that he bought from the yer General Store, and brought to the Hidden Dungeon, but didn''t manage to use. He wasn''t notified by the System about whether or not it''s rmended to use the Crude Shortsword. Russell thought that it was maybe because the sword was a trash item that was only meant to be discarded. This time, with the help of his Mana Control with his Skill: Calm of the Shadows (EX), which increases his proficiency of controlling Mana by 300% (+300% due to his Title: Resident of Chaos), he imbued Mana in his Crude Shortsword. Taking a proper sword stance, along with his 1200% sword proficiency, he cleaved down the sword towards the ETD 1. Bam-! Bam-! He jumped back up after he hit it several times, waiting for its reaction as he posed in a defensive stance. But, after a few seconds... that became a minute... then a minute and thirty seconds... nothing happened. "The f*ck is happening?!" He strongly muttered in confusion as he felt like getting pissed off. ''...This-'' Ding-! A System message appeared in front of him, cutting off his thoughts. ... [The Elderwood equipment is in total harmony that was designated by the ''Night of Primordial Chaos''.] "What''s that supposed to mean?" He spoke firmly and in confusion as he hadn''t had any idea about the indication of harmony that was designated by the Goddess of Night. "Whatever. If you are not going to react, I''m going to beat out of you." He spoke at the inanimate object, a seemingly introverted personality that he inherited from his previous life. "Hup-!" Bam-! Bam-! After just a minute or two, a System sent him a message. [The Crude Shortsword (Normal) has been destroyed.] The sword that he was holding started to crumble and turned into pieces like broken ss. ... "Sigh... I guess it''s time to try it." He realized that nothing would happen or he won''t be able to move forward when he didn''t try the unknown that''s meant to be tried, a very different scenario that a total unknown that''s not meant to be touched. With the broken trash weapon on the ground, he took out the Scythe of ''???'', a prerequisite to use a summoning skill. ''Alien Call.'' He then muttered in his mind ¨C another way of activating a skill aside from verbal. Russell designed it this way in his unpublished novel because if the person needed to mutter the skill name, it could be counterattacked by the opponent who heard and knew the said skill. This time, as if the System wanted him to rethink his decision, it sent him a message. [Proceed to summon a Chaos Slime?] [Yes or No?] ''Alien or Chaos... it''s probably the same.'' Russell thought as he chuckled before he nodded in agreement. ... [Activating Skill: Alien Call (EX)] Suddenly, as though the cold atmosphere of the Chaos Training Grounds turned colder, a dark blue magic circle with intricate symbols appeared in front of him. ''That''s freaking ominous.'' He thought as he watched what was happening in front of him. The dark blue magic circle emanated dark blue smoke that resembled the Chaos Miasma, covering the magic circle itself that blocked Russell''s vision. After some time, the dark blue smoke dissipated and revealed the creature that came out of it. ... [You have sessfully summoned a Chaos Slime.] [Warning! You have not subjugated a Chaos Slime yet, so the creature will not be tamed.] [Please, subjugate the Chaos Slime to bring it under your control.] ... Russell remembered one of the problems for Summoner professions aside from being costly and being not permanent summons when they died. A Summoner would need to first subjugate a creature at least once before they could be tame, then summon or recall. But, when a Summoner has riches unimaginable, they could request or hire a high-rank yer to first injure the creature to be tamed. Many idents took ce from this method because, even though the rich kid Summoner has sessfully brought the creature under control, once it was summoned by the Summoner himself, there was a high chance that the Summoner would be attacked because the one who brought the creature to the brink of death wasn''t the Summoner himself, but rather the hired high-rank yer. ... Whoosh-! The cold wind that seemed to get colder brought Russell back to reality from his stupor as he looked at the creature in front of him. He got chills running down his spine as he scrutinized the appearance of the Chaos Slime that he needed to subjugate. The Chaos Slime has a dark blue round body, that''s "not" fluid-like, and this time, unlike the blue slime, it contained dark blue, sharp, and pupil-less eyes as though they''re a starless night sky. It has no nose and limbs, but it contained a half-moon-shaped big mouth as dark blue smoke was leaking out of it. The Chaos Slime opened its mouth, seemingly smiling at its puny master. ''What the f*ck!? Ugh-'' Russell retches at the sight of the Chaos Slime, but he didn''t let his guard down. When the Chaos Slime opened its mouth, it revealed long, shark-like teeth along with its excessive dark blue saliva as though it was hungry. The information about the creature then appeared in front of him. ... [Chaos Slime] A slime that is tainted by "Pure" Chaos that lives in a certain dungeon in the Chaos Realm made by the [Night of Primordial Chaos]. Rank: F+ ssification: Chaos Slime of ??? ¨C STATS: HP: 550 SP: 550 MP: 550 STR: 35 (+20) DEX: 35 (+20) CON: 35 (+20) AGI: 35 (+20) VIT: 35 (+20) MANA: 35 (+20) Chaos Power (CP): 35 (+20) ¨C Unique Skill: [Predation] Effect: The beings it eats can either grant the Chaos Slime a skill or randomly distributed stats with 1% and 99% probability respectively. ¨C Skills: [Elemental st (Lvl. 7)] Create a circr st of any desired element using Mana. Rank: A+ Cost: 5 MP/5 CM [Short Blink (Lvl. 4)] Teleports to the desired location with a maximum range of 40 meters. Rank: A+ Cost: 5 MP/5CM [Slime Bite (Lvl. 6)] Jumps to the target and bites them severely. The wound caused by the skill would not heal easily. Rank: E+ Cost: None ... He was just about to curse at the seemingly unbnced Chaos Slime''s information when it just disappeared from its location, appearing behind him at least two meters away from his spot as it used the Skill: Short Blink (A-). As though it couldn''t wait to take a bite from its master''s to be burned flesh, it used the Skill: Elemental st (A+) using the Fire Element as its set attribute. Chapter 17 Chaos Slime [2] Bam-! Without waiting for Russell to finish his thoughts, a Fire st that came from Skill: Elemental st (A+) was fired at him from behind, which he managed to dodge due to his alertness. He judged that the speed of the Mana st from ETD 1 was steps ahead fasterpared to the Elemental st of the Chaos Slime. As he calmly dodged the Elemental st that was fired, he recalled that it was one of the highly sought skills of a yer that has a Mage-rted profession. Just as the name of the Elemental st implied itself; it means that the yer that possessed such a skill could switch off the element that was necessary to fire. If the yer with Elemental st was fighting a Water-type monster, it was necessary to use Earth st via Elemental st; in the same way, if the yer was fighting a Fire-type monster, it''s always better to kill it using Water st. Elemental st (A+) could switch off to the Basic Elements such as Water, Earth, Fire, and Wind, but if its level was high enough, a yer could use the skill to fire it with its set Elemental Attribute like Darkness, Light, Lightning, Ice, and so on. ''...Just what the hell did the Goddess do...?'' As he inwardly thought about it, various thoughts followed, but he didn''t have time to think about anything as the Chaos Slime started a different kind of attack pattern. The Chaos Slime lunged at him with its mouth opened wide, causing Russell to feel nauseous at the sight. Whoosh-! Chomp-! It used the Skill: Slime Bite (E+), aimed at one of his legs, but Russell dodged it again by sidestepping as the air seemed to vibrate with the strength of the bite it did. Then, holding the wooden training sword in his hand, he started to go offensive. He decided to use the wooden sword, although it''s Mythical, it wasn''t sharp. Because he thought that if he used the Growth-type sword or scythe that he has, he might have identally killed the Chaos Slime. He jumped to cleave down the wooden sword towards the Chaos Slime. "Hup-!" Whoosh-! It disappeared as it used its Skill: Short Blink (A-), dodging Russell''s strike. A chuckle escaped from his mouth due to it being more agile than he thought. The problem with Blink-rted skills was that they didn''t have a "cooldown". It''s one of the things that Russell designed in his unpublished novel. In actuality, it''s not just the Blink skill, but rather most of the general ones. The bnce he made when writing about it was that it could deplete one''s Mana faster. That''s why, even though most normal skills didn''t have a cooldown, a smart or experienced yer wouldn''t waste their Mana by spamming them. ... A few minutes had passed since the battle of subjugation started. During that time, Russell felt like whenever he encountered something he didn''t expect, he was reminded of how trash his unpublished novel was. He was thrown into many elements in reality that he didn''t have any idea about; however, considering that he read some web novels in his previous life aside from writing his own when he was waiting for stock results, he was able to quicklyposed himself with the unknowns except when he encountered the Goddess of Night. "Hup-!" Whoosh-! It happened again. When Russell''s going offensive, the Chaos Slime just always blinked out of his reach. ''Should I make an opening for it?'' He thought, nning to catch it off-guard. Then, just a momentter, he pretended to slip up or be out of bnce as he slide his feet on the ground while he firmly held the wooden sword in his right hand. ''Where...?'' He was predicting the next move of the Chaos Slime, whether it would blink on either side of his or it would blink mid-air. Whoosh-! Then, just a second or two, it blinked mid-air. As Russell slipped up, it opened its mouth wide, attempting to dive into Russell''s neck with Skill: Slime Bite. But, at the moment, Russell swung his wooden sword upward, fully utilizing his arm strength. Bam-! He sessfullynded a clean strike on its body as it flew in the air before it was mmed into the ground. As though the Chaos Slime felt dizzy as it started to shake its body, Russell didn''t give it time to recover as he began to run after it. "Hup-!" Bam-! Bam-! "Kyuu... Kyuu..." ''That''s a cute noisepared to your appearance.'' Hempooned inwardly as the Chaos Slime became lethargic, unable to move. ... Ding-! [You have sessfully subjugated the Chaos Slime.] [The Chaos Slime''s HP is about 10% remaining.] [The Chaos Slime acknowledges your strength.] [Give the Chaos Slime a "Name".] ... "A name...? Hmm..." He looked at the weakened Chaos Slime that seemed to sulk with its eyes. After pondering for some time, he came up with a name that he thought was suitable. "Ceru." Ding-! [Do you want to name the Chaos Slime, "Ceru"?] [Yes or No?] "Yes." [The Chaos Slime''s name has been set to "Ceru"] [Ceru likes the name it has been given by its Master!] ... After a few minutes, when Ceru became his first "Alien Creature" summon, it started to be affected by the Chaos Training Grounds'' benefits as it quickly recovered. For some unknown reason, although the Chaos Training Grounds didn''t have a Health Regeneration benefit, due to Ceru''s identity as a creature from Chaos, it instantly recovered when it acknowledged Russell as its master. Then, after some resting, Russell continued training as he ordered Ceru, his new summon to attack the Elderwood Training Dummy 1 or ETD 1, but with the use of Elemental st because he thought that if Ceru bites the training dummy, its teeth might break. "What''s the problem with this...?" He couldn''t think of anything as the ETD 1 wasn''t reacting even with Ceru''s attack with Mana. With his patience that seemed to reach rock bottom, he imbued Mana to the wooden training sword that was increasing its weight because of one of its Enchantments: Weight Adjustment, and threw it to the training dummy. Hnnggg-! Hnnggg-! As soon as he heard the sounds from where ETD 1 was ced, Russell felt like he just had Post-Traumatic Stressed Disorder (PTSD) as he quickly jumped outside the arena with Ceru and picked up another wooden training sword. Ding-! [The harmony between the Elderwood equipment has been broken.] Russell nced at the System''s message as he and Ceru dodged the iing Mana st. Although he didn''t understand the meaning of the System''s message, he felt like a sudden idea from his mind, but he didn''t have time to think it over as he and Ceru started their first teamwork to chip down the Elderwood Training Dummy. ... Hours passed as the two started running, dodging, and attacking. And as though the System pitied him, it sent him the message necessary to stop the Mana st barrage. [Put the Elderwood Training Swords to their initial location.] Russell did what the System said as he picked up what he previously threw and put it in its original location. It''s the same with the second wooden training sword that he picked up after he threw the first one. [The harmony between the Elderwood equipment has been restored.] Based on what Russell observed, he guessed that for some reason, the Elderwood material was somewhat following what the Goddess of Night had arranged for it, which means that if he used an Elderwood Training Sword imbued with Mana to attack the ETD 1, it would be detected that it was out of position. It''s like the Elderwood was one in body, and any out-of-ce or position set by the Goddess of Night would trigger a defense mechanism through the Enchantment: Counterattack that would endlessly fire Mana st until the Elderwood was in the designated position again. It was also considered one of the highest in Mana Conductivity, which also pertained to its sensitiveness when it was hit by a training sword made from the same material. ''That''s freaking weird. It''s like it doesn''t care it if was hit by anything but Elderwood material.'' He thought as he recalled Ceru. ... [You have been training for 5 Earth hours.] [You have been training for 15 Chaos Training Grounds hours.] [Your Skill: Alien Call (EX) has leveled up!] [Ceru has increased understanding of its Master.] Russell ¡ª who was exhausted ¡ª slumped on the ground after he recalled Ceru to rest. He sorted out his thoughts one by one to assess everything that happened this time. His first thought was that he wondered if he didn''t need to personally encounter a Chaos monster due to Ceru''s case. He thought that the Skill: Alien Call (EX) had its counterpart summon acting like a mirror, meaning that the blue slime he subjugated a few years back and brought under his control made the Chaos Slime appear on his summon''s list. ''I wonder if I subjugate a Goblin, I''ll be able to summon a Chaos Goblin...?'' "System... If I subjugate an ordinary Goblin, will I be able to summon a Chaos Goblin...? Then defeat it just like with Ceru?" [No.] A sinct answer caused his mind to temporarily turned nk. "Eh...? Okay." He answered in a stupor before recovering from his stupefaction shortly. Apart from his previous thoughts, he realized that he should never underestimate the Chaos Dungeons that had ranks higher than him at this moment. ''Maybe I''ll get Elderwood material through those dungeons I have no idea about.'' He thought before hemanded the System. "...Anyway, System, show me my ''Detailed Status Window.'' The "Detailed Status Window" shows everything about the yer''s information. ... ''Reading this is f*cking harder than fighting Ceru earlier.'' Hempooned inwardly as he face-palmed as he couldn''t process everything he just read, but due to his Title: Resident of Chaos, his Chaos-rted "passive" and "active" skills were "enhanced" and "amplified" respectively. Then, there was information that he paid more attention to. ... [Scythemanship of the Reaper (Passive - Lvl. 0 - Enhanced)] These contain the ways how the [Harbinger of Death] cut down the flesh and soul of the target. Rank: EX Effect: - You can grasp the 13 movements of Reaper''s Scythemanship. - Increases in efficiency by 200%(+200%) while wielding or learning any scythe-rted technique. - Gain the Skill: Soul Execution ¨C [Soul Execution (Lvl. MAX - Cannot be Amplified)] Using the prerequisite weapon and meeting certain conditions, the user can cut down the soul of the target and grant them ''True Death''. Warning! Using this skill will put you in grave danger as many Constetions forbid any skill that grants ''True Death''. Rank: Forbidden Condition of Use: 1. Wield the Scythe ''???'' 2. The target is hostile to the user 3. The target is on the verge of losing or death. 4. The target is contracted to a Constetion True Death. - A state where the Constetion cannot contain or revive the person''s soul unless the Constetion reins over death or it''s the Primordial Goddess of Night. [Swordsmanship of the Night (Passive - Lvl. 0 - Enhanced)] The [Night of Primordial Chaos] was so bored that "She" practiced "Her" swordsmanship for countless eons. This has originally 342 movements in harmony but toned down to 33 movements to match the human physique up to rank SSS+. Rank: Zenith Effects: - You can grasp the 33 movements of Constetion [Night of Primordial Chaos]''s swordsmanship. - Increases in efficiency by 400%(+400%) while wielding or learning any sword-rted technique. Gain the Skill: Abyssal Cut [Abyssal Cut (Lvl. MAX - Cannot be Amplified)] A simple multidirectional sh with unimaginable destructive power. This skill can be used while performing even one of the 33 movements of [Night of Primordial Chaos]''s swordsmanship. Rank: Zenith Cost: 50% of the current Chaos Power. ... ''A True Death...'' He muttered in his mind as he recalled that it was one of the preludes to certain disasters in the future. Then, he noticed the Abyssal Cut''s cost to use. It referred to his Chaos Power stat and not Chaos Mana. Then, the Weapon Mastery (S+) was also enhanced... it lead Russell to believe that, for some reason, it''s a Chaos-rted skill. "Hmm..." After some time, he checked the Additional yer Stats or information. This information only appeared when one would check the "Detailed" Status Window. ... [Additional yer''s Stats] Health Regeneration: 1 (+2) p/sec Stamina Regeneration: 1 (+2) p/sec Mana Regeneration: 1 (+2) p/sec Chaos Mana Regeneration: 1 (+6) p/sec Dark Attribute Resistance: 100 (MAX) Light Attribute Resistance: 20 yer''s Growth Rate: 1 (+4) times Weapon Mastery (Enhanced): 200%(+200%) Swordsmanship Proficiency (Enhanced): 400%(+400%) Scythemanship Proficiency (Enhanced): 200(+200%) Mana Sense Proficiency: 300%(+300%) Mana Control Proficiency: 300%(+300%) Mana Breathing or Absorption Proficiency: 300%(+300%) ... The average Growth Rate of a yer was only 1, then with the Symbol of Night and Seed of Chaos, and if Russell was on the Chaos Training Grounds, he''d have a Growth Rate of 7 times. For unknown reasons, the benefits of the Chaos Training Grounds were not reflected on Additional yer Stats. "...I am at the same level with the main character and other major characters when ites to Growth Rate without this ce''s benefits." Growth Rate could be increased with the consumption of something called Treasure Herb and Elixir. But, due to their rarity, they couldn''t easily be found even by resourceful people, and the same Treasure Herb or Elixir couldn''t be consumed twice. "Well, this is only temporary... until the Tower of Growth appears in a few months." He muttered as he was still lying on the arena grounds "I guess I''m going back to high school days." He added while chuckling as it''s only less than three weeks since the Obelisk Academy sses starts. After some time, hemanded the System to send him back to Earth. [Exiting the Chaos Training Grounds.] Chapter 18 First Day Of The Academy [1] June 05, 2062, Monday, 6:30 A.M Brrnnngggg-! Brrnnngggg-! Russell woke up from his sleep and quickly did his morning routine; he took a quick shower; prepared and eat his own breakfast. He almost didn''t have time even for a little exercise aside from stretching his body. It''s almost been a month since he went to the Hidden Dungeon: The Oldest Root of Yggdrasil. With everything he experienced, before even the sses started, made him realize how failed his unpublished novel was and he felt like it was for the best that he didn''t manage to publish it. His unpublished novel, [The Forgotten Swordsman of Ruined Star], started on this very day, but with underlying mysteries that he didn''t want to delve into, he never cared about solving what was behind his reincarnation as he enjoyed this life more than his previous one. He didn''t want to think about anything when "it" started, but rather, he wanted to survive the future, along with his family that he didn''t have in his previous life, even if the story he knew changes as it progresses. "Money can buy happiness, but it cannot buy longsting genuine emotions." He muttered after reminiscing about something. With how poor their family was until just a few years ago, all he did at his young age excluding his mental age was to ovee his "Social Anxiety" ¡ª the thief of self-confidence whether from this world or the world before the Emergence. "I don''t want to remember that." He mumbled while he was standing in front of a square mirror attached to the wall inside his dormitory room,bing his slightly wet short deep ck hair. What he nned this time was to observe if the story he knew would still unfold despite the existence of the Untouched and Unknown Elements he encountered or learned respectively. ''Even if I wanted to see it unfold, it''ll be hard... and I can''t just ask Freya about whatever happened between those people.'' He thought inwardly. Being an A-11 student, he''s very far from even attempting to observe the daily academic life of the characters he had written about. After some time, he then checked everything in his quite spacious dormitory room that was not evenparable to the A-1 dormitory rooms before he left. ... Ding-! As the High-Speed Elevator opened, Russell heard some students talking about their impressions or how they feel being a student in the prestigious academy. "Whoo... I''m f*cking nervous, man." "Don''t take everything with you bro, do you think you''re the only one?" "Hahaha! Me, too. We''re just first-year, you know!" "By the way, have you seen what they look like in person?" "You mean...?" "Yes! It''s an honor to see them in person even from afar!" "But... have you heard some rumors?" Chatters- Chatters- Russell listened to numerous students chattering as he guessed some of what they were talking about. Most of them were about how nervous they were on their first day even though they reside in the Obelisk Academy for a few weeks already. Ding-! Just less than 5 seconds, they reached the ground floor of the Andromeda Building. ''It''s a mix of nervousness and excitement.'' He thought as he walked out of the spacious High-Speed Elevator. The Obelisk Academy''s reputation came from the seemingly wless teachings of the professors, as well as the resourcefulness that never seemedcking. But, the most important thing about the Obelisk Academy was the safety of students that was guaranteed unless an unexpected factor urs. The security guards in the Obelisk Academy range from A- to A+ rank. ''But it''s not the security guards that are really dangerous.'' He cackled at the thought of how he had written about the Obelisk staff or personnel. "Oppa!" His little reverie has been broken by Freya''s joyful voice, his younger sister. She''s sitting on one of the lobby seats in the waiting area section. He looked at her who waved her right hand with an excited smile on her face, he then smiled back and nodded in response as he approached her. "Why didn''t you go first?" Freya''s deep blue eyes constricted before she pouted at her older brother''s question. "Tsk. What do you mean by ''why''? Of course, I''m waiting for you. Also, there''s still plenty of time before it starts, you know!" He scoff at his younger sister who seemed serious. "Right... let''s go, poker-face sister." He said with a straight face, trying to contain hisughter. "What did you say?!" She pricked up her ears upon hearing her older brother''s words in a serious tone; however, knowing him, she knew that he was joking. "Ouch! Ouch!" His hair got pulled abruptly for a second or two before they started to walk towards the Obelisk Auditorium. ... ording to the Obelisk Website ¡ª where necessary announcements were being updated ¡ª the Student Weing Ceremony was scheduled at 7 A.M. ''It''s 15 minutes left.'' Russell nced at his smartwatch that every student in the Obelisk Academy has. From Andromeda Dormitory to Obelisk Auditorium, it would be at least 10 minutes of walking. "Oppa, how do you feel? Are you excited? And... have you eaten breakfast yet?" ''I''m surprised she made a friend.'' He thought, because Freya''s personality was quite talkative when it came to him, but rather fierce when it came to "most" but not all people. Based on her question, specifically about the one being excited, he fell into thought. ''It would be a lie if I say I''m not feeling that way.'' He''s somewhat excited since it would be the first time he would see the handsomeness or gorgeousness of the main character, as well as the major characters or the soon-to-bepanions or thorn of the main character in his unpublished novel. ''I wonder what they look like personally.'' Although they were either the daughters or sons of the TOP 5 yers, they barely appeared in public as they deemed it irrelevant. "Hmm... I''ve eaten my breakfast, and yes, I''m quite excited." He smiled at his younger sister. It''s not a smile that''s necessary just to show some face, but rather it''s a genuine one. "Heh heh! Me, too! I''m excited!" He nced at her expression and felt like his younger sister''s deep blue eyes shined brightly while she clenched both her fist and formed an uppercut gesture. "It doesn''t look like it, though?" He followed up with a sarcastic tone. As a person who had to ovee his "Social Anxiety" previously, he was aid-back person when it came tomunicating with others; however, it was a different case when it was about interacting with his younger sister and parents. Whoosh-! He received a weak punch on his left shoulder just a second after he said those words, but it only somehow grazed him. ... "Good luck, Freya!" Arriving at the Obelisk Auditorium, the two of the separated and took their respective seats based on the ss they belonged to. And not strange enough, the gazes of most of the studentsnded on the leftmost front of the rows of seats where Russell''s younger sister was sitting with other A-1 students, but some of their seats were empty, and yet to be filled. Even though the sses haven''t started yet, belonging to the A-1 ss could already gain someone poprity, just like how Freya was somehow recognized by some of the students when she was visiting him in his dormitory block. If Russell was not wrong, there were at least 480 first-year students at this very moment with 40 students in each section from A-1 ss to A-12 ss. He excluded some of the seniors and security that''s on the entrance, as well as the Obelisk staff that''s on different assigned work. Russell looked through the massive Obelisk Auditorium. With the 480 first-year students sitting in their respective seats, at least 1/6 of the whole interior area has only been upied. The interior of the auditorium was about 60 meters in height, 180 meters in length, and 120 meters wide. It was designed like an arc as there''s a wide stage on the other end, against the entrance, of the auditorium. There were three gigantic chandeliers hanging acutely above the ceiling that was probably powered by Magic Stones. Russell ¡ª who was sitting on the leftmost back of the seat arrangements with his ssmates he didn''t know ¡ª grasped the Obelisk Auditorium structure. .. After a few minutes, the time hit exactly 7:00 A.M., then, a woman with a waist length tinum hair, purple eyes that seemed to be perfect in shape, and a voluptuous body under a white blouse seemed to take the breath away of most male students, and quite several female students as she walked towards the middle of the stage where a podium with three high-quality microphones was situated. "Wee new first-year students! "I am here to announce that the Student Weing Ceremony will nowmence!" A captivating voice reverberated within the entirety of the Obelisk Auditorium; a voice that soothes the emotional and mental condition of those who head it. Russell''s jaw dropped as he saw the physical features of the woman standing on the stage. She was one of the characters in his unpublished novel. ''What the f*ck is this...?'' Seeing her personally caused Russell''s mind to be a mess, an opposite effect of her soothing voice that rang in everyone''s ears. ? ''She is d*mn gorgeous!'' He had no idea that it was the kind of gorgeousness he would witness personally. ''She befits a model.'' She was one of the professors in the Obelisk Academy that Russell wouldn''t be able to mostly meet or see as she only handled the A-1 to A-3 ss of first years. She was also an SS+ rank yer that''s contracted with the Constetion [Witch of Dreams] which specializes in Mental Attacks. Although that''s the case, she didn''tck in physicalbat prowess unlike the contrary popr belief that a "Witch" uses a staff weapon which could mistake her for having a Mage-rted profession, she''s actually the owner of a very ominous scythe weapon named "Fog of Nightmare Scythe" (Legendary), with a high-grade Scythemanship "art" called "Swings of the yful Witch" (S+). ''if she''s not concealing her aura... almost everyone here even me would have either fainted or died already.'' Russell thought about the terrifying power of the yers in the realm of S- rank and above. Contrary to her captivating voice, she was a very strict woman in the field of teaching; knowing full well the difference between the seriousness and triviality of the situation. ''She''s the youngest SS+ rank in the human domain.'' He thought as he organized what he knew about her in his mind, then her still captivating voice resounded in everyone''s ears. "I''m Ayleen Mayfield." Chapter 19 First Day Of The Academy [2] Ayleen Mayfield''s ¡ª one of the renowned professors that would handle the first year A-1 to A-3 sses ¡ª voice resounded in everyone''s ears, causing them to somewhat fell into a little reverie. "Today, we genuinely wee the new first-year students of our academy! "We hope for everyone to achieve the career they have set their eyes on. "Whether you are a Fighter-type or Support-type yer, it doesn''t matter. "In our academy, you will learn everything you need before bing a full-pledge yer..." Ayleen Mayfield continue to speak without stuttering or using filters as though she''d done this many times already. ... "I request all of you to check the First-Year Handbook you have received at the entrance of the auditorium before entering..." Russell listened to Ayleen Mayfield as he flipped the front to the third page of the First-Year Handbook that was handed to him, and the other 479 students including his younger sister, by some security guards whose strength was no joke. "As first-year students, we would like to emphasize the very important rules that all of you need to diligently abide by. "But, before I proceed, I want to remind everyone that you have taken a step out of yourfort zone, and a step forward toward the career you are pursuing." The students, even Russell, were affected by Ayleen''s voice in some ways. They felt like their emotions seemed to move as though they were silently following an order from a queen. While Ayleen continued speaking, Russell read some of the important rules written exclusively for first-year students. ... 1. Unauthorized use of any kind of Skills in public. 2. Unauthorized use of Mana in public (Mana Control and Mana Sense). 3. Do NOT bring out a "Personal Weapon" in public without authorization from any Obelisk Personnel. 4. Do NOT cheat in any kind of exam (Written and Practical). 5. ... 6. ... ... ''Personal Weapon, huh.'' Personal Weapons were equipment that didn''te from any weapon facilities or storage from the Obelisk Academy. He was reminded of the Sword and Scythe of ''???'' that he acquired from the Ancient Treasure Chest from Chaos. Every student knew the great cost or punishment if any of the above-mentioned rules were disobeyed. Although the severity of punishment depends on the degree of themitted sin, it would still affect the yer''s future career. Expulsion from the Obelisk Academy would render a yer the right to take the yer License Exam (PLE). Apart from that, even some of the Guilds below the TOP 10 would certainly refrain from recruiting a rule-breaker Obelisk student. "That would be all for the important reminders. "Now... we will introduce to everyone the personally handpicked by the Vice-Chancellor, Sir Dexter Rainfall; the students among the first years who will be a part of the Student Council." Ayleen Mayfield enthusiastically said, causing murmurs of wonder about the identity of the students that would be the representatives of the first year in the Student Council. "The Vice-Chancellor himself!? No way!" "I''m freaking jealous man! But, we know it''s hard to be on their level." "Yeah, it''s probably them right?" "Whoo... I''m excited! I only saw them sometimes on T.V., you know?" Numerous reactions from numerous students near Russell''s seat could be seen. Some of the students couldn''t help gasping. Some had either a look of jealousy or admiration in their eyes. Though some had solemn expressions, but with a mix of anticipation just like how Russell was feeling at this moment. ''...It will be the first time I''ll see them.'' Although they were famous, they barely ever appeared on the inte and television for security purposes, considering their identities. Also, with Russell''s past in this world, inte ess was impossible. That''s how poor they were previously until an opportunity came by, giving his parents a very stable ie with a good work environment. ... After excusing herself, Ayleen left the stage, went backstage, and then, just as she left, some students that were not first years appeared; one of them rece Ayleen as this student went to the podium. Russell could tell that these students were either in their second or third year because of the "Student Uniform" where the year level could be distinguished. For the boys, the Obelisk Academy''s Student Uniform consisted of a 5-button red-maroon polo, which almost dyed the entirety of the uniform, navy blue pants, ck or white socks, and formal ck shoes. For the girls, the Obelisk Academy''s Student Uniform consisted of a 5-button red-maroon blouse that was tucked into the below-the-knee ck skirt. The above-mentioned formal Student Uniforms were applied to first to third-year students, but what sets them apart was the difference in a very simple design. On the top left of the red-maroon polo or blouse, there''s an ''O'' depicting a rayless Sun that''s intricately sewn on them. Then, from the bottom of an ''O'' symbol, there''s an Obelisk piercing it. This Obelisk was the indicator of someone''s year level because the number of the Obelisk increased as the year level of the student increased. What the Obelisk Logo means was very simple: the ''O'' depicts an illusory dome that seemed to limit humanity from thriving, then the Obelisk piercing it from the bottom indicated the effort of humanity to break their limit and grow stronger than ever. ... After some time, Russell checked with his profound vision the number of Obelisks pierced on the rayless Sun on the top left of the uniform of the student that reced Ayleen on the podium. "Good morning everyone! "I am Victoria, the Secretary of the Student Council. "Today, I will introduce to everyone the personally handpicked first-year students by Vice-Chancellor Sir Dexter Rainfall." Russell''s deep blue eyes seemed to pop out as he scratched them a few times after hearing the introduction of the second-year woman in front. She has shoulder-length, blonde hair, deep blue eyes, a fine body, and was at least 170 cm in height. She''s of Russian lineage if Russellpared it to the Old World''s ethnicity. ''...I guess the reality of my unpublished novel is too much.'' He was in awe at her physical appearance and bearing. Then, after some time, he recalled the details about the Russian-looking woman in his unpublished novel. Victoria Angelica Rasputin, was the woman who would be granted the Unique Skill: Certain Peek (SSS+) after seeding in forming a contract and bing a champion of the Constetion [One Who Peeks on Clock Movement] just "before" her second year ends. "Rasputin" in Russian means "Crossroads"; which Russell used, intending to make a corrtion between Victoria and her future Constetion. "Everyone, let us wee all of them!" Victoria, with a soothing voice, spoke as some students came out from backstage, which broke Russell''s thoughts. Most of the students, including Russell, had shocked expressions on their faces, together with the swirling myriad of emotions. Although not everyone saw them personally, they already appeared on the Obelisk Website just like how his younger sister, Freya, did; so it''s only ordinary for everyone to know them. Apart from that, during the written and evaluation exams, some of the students already saw them personally. There were only expressions of admiration, shock, reverence, and confusion, but some boys felt like had their switch turned on as a feeling of infatuation had risen within them. The expression of reverence wasn''t directed to the students who just appeared on stage, but rather, their appearance had reminded almost everyone of the good deeds of their parents; while the expression of confusion was directed at the person they didn''t recognize by name, but his looks were enough for some girls to look at him with shyness. After all of them lined up, Victoria started to introduce the new representatives of the Student Council. From Victoria''s left, Russell, who was sitting from almost the back of the seats, scrutinized them with his profound vision through the Enhanced Eye of Night (EX). ... pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m ¨C Samantha Hall ¨C Elizabeth von Etherion ¨C Anya Amasawa ¨C Rumia Flora ¨C Leon von Obreyon ¨C Han Jiho ... They were the new representatives of the Student Council from the A-1 of first-year. Apart from one of them, they were the famous daughters or sons of the TOP 5 Guilds. These renowned people bowed to the crowd of students as their respective names were each called by Victoria. "Hey, man, who''s thest one?" "Huh? Who are you talking about?" "Tsk, you ain''t listening, man. That Han something..." "Oh! him! I remembered he ced 5th on the rankings." " What?! He surpassed Leon?" "I''m not sure how, but based on what I''ve heard, the rankings of students are not only based on the results of the entrance exam." Russell heard the chattering of two people in front of him. Han Jiho ¡ª the Main Character of the story he had written in his previous life. He came out of nowhere, then ced 5th in the student rankings due to exam results and some unspoken criteria. But, this time, although he was in 5th ce in the A-1 ss, he was probably the 2nd strongest first-year student when it came to "Combat Ability", a rank below Samantha Hall. ''If he''s not too ignorant about society, he''d probably know some theories and might get a higher rank cingpared to what his rank is right now. ''Well, can''t me him, though. With Untouched or Unknown Elements, we''re probably in the same boat at this point.'' Russell poignantly thought as he recalled some background about Han Jiho. Han Jiho got admitted to the Obelisk Academy due to his talent, and through the personal rmendation of the Chancellor of the Obelisk Academy, which was almost at the pinnacle of "yer Status" with his "SSS" rank; the Chancellor was one of the s Strongest yers in the human domain. ... Due to the reactions that seemed out of control, Victoria raised her right hand, prompting the crowd to stop for a moment. Leon ¡ª who was standing beside Han Jiho from the left, and Rumia Flora from the right ¡ª had a hardened expression, but somehow forced himself to wear a normal or casual gesture. People who didn''t know him enough would certainly think that he was a magnanimous, and humble person. ''But he won''t escape my eyes even without using the Eye of Night to peek into his hidden nature.'' Russell thought as he scrutinized their physical features. ''I feel like I betrayed myself by respectively giving them Charm stat that ranges from 17¨C19.'' Humanity and some other beings only had a maximum of 20 Charm stat, and could only be bypassed if the yer has been contracted with a Constetion that specialized in utilizing Charm. After some time, he recalled some of the basic details he knew about them while Victoria was speaking about something in the front. ... ¡ª Samantha Hall The 16-year-old daughter of the Guild Master of the Rank 1 Guild: Star Stream. She has almond brown eyes that depicted a scorching desert under her gold-rimmed eyesses, mid-back length, auburn hair which she usually did in a ponytail, and a very fine body. Her height was about 167 cm. Her personality was of confusing because she was mostly quiet, but when she started talking, it almost felt like the listener would want her to stop. ¡ª Elizabeth von Etherion The 16-year-old daughter of the Guild Master of the Rank 2 Guild: Ethereal Guild. Her mother''s a queen of the country, "Etheria", which could be located on the Northernmost Orion. She has almond light-green eyes as though they depicted the serenity of nature itself, waist-length, blonde hair which she mostly straightened, and a very fine body. Her height was about 168 cm. She has a good personality but was mostly cheeky, and she''s the bestfriend of Rumia Flora. ¡ª Anya Amasawa The daughter of the Guild Master of the Rank 3 Guild: Olympus. Her father was "secretly" the second richest yer in the Orion Continent. She has monolid ruby eyes which depicted underlying bloodlust, mid-length red hair that she asionally styled between the bun, ponytail, and twin-tail hairstyle, and a fine, fitted body. Her height was about 166 cm. Her personality was that of a very quiet person. Although she''s approachable, even with her facial features, everyone barely approached her. And the funny thing about it was that she didn''t know why she was being avoided aside from her status in the "yer Industry" thanks to her father. ¡ª Rumia Flora The daughter of the Guild Master of the Rank 4 Guild: Chaos Hunter Guild. She''s the princess of the country, Nereia. She has monolid sapphire eyes like the depiction of the cloudless sky, mid-length blonde hair that''s mostly in pig-tail, but sometimes ponytail, and a fine body. Her height was about 165 cm. Her personality was amiable, approachable, as well as talkative even with themon people. It''s that her status as a princess seemed to put the ordinary people away from her, which was the same with Elizabeth''s case, her best, and childhood friend. ¡ª Leon von Obreyon The son of the Guild Master of the Rank 5 Guild: Phantasmal Guild. He has deep blue eyes that exuded deep emotions, short blonde hair, and a very fitted body. His height was about 173 cm. His personality was that of an envious man, but, he was rather rational. Although he''s open to epting defeat, he tends to be obsessed with oveing that obstacle. ¡ª Han Jiho The main character of the unpublished novel, [The Forgotten Swordsman of Ruined Star]. He has slightly deep ck eyes, befitting his ignorance in society, ck short hair, and a fitted body. His height was about 170 cm. His personality was that of very adaptive when he''s thrown into unknown situations; he''s also calm and collected, but easily annoyed by super clingy women. ... "Let us wee the Student Council President." Victoria said before she left the podium, and then a man walked in, recing her. Russell''s thoughts broke as he frowned at the sight of the man. [The Night of Primordial Chaos, says that the man stinks.] Chapter 20 Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam [1] Russell ¡ª who skimmed through the System''s message ¡ª chuckled; with his enhanced vision and alertness, he saw the Student Council President slightly flinch; if one has a great perception, they would somehow notice that mild reaction. ''That''s a fitting reaction.'' It probably meant that the System had notified the Student Council President of the Goddess of Night''s observation; and with "Her" status, "Her" Cosmic Title: [Night of Primordial Chaos], certainly wouldn''t appear through the man''s eyes standing in the podium with his smiling expression. "Good morning everyone! For those who don''t know me yet; I am Arthur Wolfson, and I am the President of the Student Council, currently your senior. "Without further ado, I have some announcements to make..." Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President, spoke gently, causing Russell from behind the arranged seats to constrict his deep blue eyes before discreetly frowning. He scrutinized the Student Council President from his seat; Arthur Wolfson has short blonde hair, deep blue eyes, and a fitted body that one might tell that he didn''t neglect physical training. Some of the first-year girls felt like their hearts thumped faster upon seeing the Student Council President. Russell even heard someone say excitedly that there were many handsome men in the Obelisk Academy. But he knew, as the writer of the unpublished novel, that the man speaking in front was a double-faced person. ''He has a very good reputation in the academy, but he''s a prideful bastard.'' Russell recalled some of what he knew, not registering in his auricr sense everything that was being said by the Student Council President. Arthur Wolfson was someone who did dirty work, not from the inside of the Obelisk Academy, but rather the opposite. He liked working from behind the scenes, utilizing his connections to do the work for him unless it was necessary for him to step up. Due to his pride, he envied the Student Council Secretary, Victoria Angelica Rasputin, for one reason; she became a champion even though she was not even in her third year. || When he came to know that Victoria became a champion, he devised a n to manipte her... || ''...He''s the kind of person I want to punch the most.'' Russell inwardly thought as he broke from his little reverie. ... "I hope that I would see some of you participate in the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam. "The entry will be limited, so, if you are determined enough, you might have the chance to be a member of the Disciplinary Committee. "Take note that the schedule and additional information regarding the trial exam will be posted on the Obelisk Website during lunch break, along with the information about Clubs, and Electives that you are required to take. "That will be all." ... The Student Weing Ceremony ended as the people on the stage bowed, signifying their will to be of service. "Oppa!" Russell heard his younger sister from some distance away, approaching him as she waved one of her hands. "Where''s your friend?" He asked curiously; during the time of the Student Weing Ceremony, he asionally nced at his younger sister''s seat, and saw her talking with someone; the friend Freya made. "About that... she''s super shy... like the previous you, Oppa. Heh heh." He scoffed at Freya''s words, who mentioned something rted when they were just kids. "By the way, even though it''s 8:15 A.M. now, we were told to attend our respective ss, but... do you want to grab something first?" Freya smiled before she nodded, then the two of them walked for the Obelisk Cafeteria One. ... "Oppa, he''s my ssmate. I''m surprised that he toppled Leon, you know." Freya whispered when she saw Han Jiho from the other line of the cafeteria. Russell, with his curiosity, activated his Status Appraisal Skill. He didn''t do so earlier when they were in the Obelisk Auditorium due to two reasons: He felt betrayed by himself by giving the major characters he had written about that amount of Charm, and he was distracted by Arthur Wolfson''s punchable face. [Activating Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX)] [Checking the Standard Status Window of the target.] ... [Status Window] Name: Han Jiho Race: Human Title: ¨C yer of Green ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] ¨C [Sealed] Health Points (HP): 2,250 Mana Points (MP): 2,200 Stamina Points (SP): 1,950 Divine Mana (DM): [Sealed] Age: 16 (Earth Years) Sex: Male Height: 170 cm Rank: D Profession: Swordsman, [Sealed] Constetion: ??? ¨C STATS: Strength: 160 Dexterity: 149 Constitution: 1,950 Agility: 140 (+49) Vitality: 160 (+65) pAn,Da-n0v e1,c Willpower: 99 Tenacity: 99 Charm: 16 Luck: 14 Magic Power: 220 Divine Power: [Sealed] ¨C Unique Skill: [Swordsman''s Adaptation (Passive - Lvl. MAX)] Description: ??? Rank: SSS Effects: - Gain the Trait: Will of the Sword - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] - [Sealed] ¨C Skills: [Glorious Body (Passive - Lvl. MAX)] Description: ??? Rank: SSS Effects: - Increases the Growth Rate of the yer by "3" times. - ??? - ??? - ??? - ??? [Mental Barrier (Passive - Lvl. 10) Description: Battles that should be fought do not always happen "physically". Rank: S+ Effects: - Blocks any mental interference offensive skills aimed at the yer. - The skill''s capacity to block a mental interference skill is proportional to the yer''s Willpower and Tenacity stats. [Light Steps (Lvl. 5)] Description: The more agile one can be, the more chances one will have to survive a disadvantageous battle. Rank: A- Cost: 50 Mana Cooldown: 11 minutes Effect: - Increases the "movement speed" of the yer in proportion to the Agility stat for 10 minutes. [Advanced Swordsmanship (Passive - Lvl. 4)] Description: This is the kind of swordsmanship that can be achieved through arduous effort, enough to be able to participate in an easy Strayed Dungeon raid. Rank: D- [Sword Mastery (Passive. Lvl. MAX)] Description: Lover of swords will only mean one thing: stealing the light of many. Rank: SS+ Effect: - Increases the yer''s proficiency by 300% when learning or wielding sword-type weapons. [Swordsmanship of (Sealed) (Passive - Lvl. ???) Description: It is lost. Rank: ??? Effects: - You can grasp the "3" out of 77" movements of this swordsmanship. - The yer will be able to unlock the remaining movements if certain conditions have been met. [Tri-Mana Possessor (Passive - Max)] Description: Something that will be coveted by many. Rank: SS+ Effects: - The yer will be able to Sense, Control, and Absorb Mana with 200% efficiency. - The yer will still be able to learn separate Mana Skills rted to Sense, Control, and Absorption. ¨C Trait: [Will of the Sword] Description: Contains the will of the dimming light. Rank: SSS+ Effects: - The longer the battle is fought, the faster you can adapt to the situation. - "Battle Adaptation" is quickened if your opponent is using a melee-type weapon. - Stamina Regeneration increases by 300%. [Blinding the Prying Eyes] Description: The flickering dim yet so bright light. Rank: SSS+ - Allows you to block Status Appraisal Skills automatically. - Only Status Appraisal Skills higher than the trait''s rank, can only be the yer''s Status Window to be seen. - ??? - ??? - ??? ¨C Authority: [Fragment of the Lost Lights] Description: This is the authority granted by the Constetion "???", and the possessor of this authority will be granted its following benefits: Effects: 1. Dark Attribute Resistance increases by 500%. 2. Light Attribute Weapons will be amplified by 200% upon wielding. 3. Gain the both Active or Passive Skill: Collector of the "???". Description: It is something that "must" be done. - Collected Shards: 0/10000 - Collected Fragment: 0/100 4. [Sealed]... ¡ª 13. [Sealed]... ... ''What overpowered stats... But, at least it stayed like that... Also, it really showed the word ''description''...'' Russell didn''t know whether tough or cry; he felt like it was out of ce, though he brushed off his seemed unnecessary overthinking. Upon racking up his memories of his previous life, about his unpublished novel, Russell concluded that nothing was amiss with Han Jiho''s Status Window. Although Han Jiho has many skills and some traits in the realm of S rank, it only meant their rarity itself, on how unique their existence was, because, even though a yer possessed many high-rank skills, if the yer''s stats were only equivalent to D rank, it would only mean death inbat against a high-rank yer, especially from C and above; considering that a D rank yer like Han Jiho and the C rank variable yer has the same amount ofbat experience. "Oppa, see youter!" His thoughts were cut off due to Freya''s voice, who was done ordering some sandwiches. After a few minutes, Russell and Freya separated, going to their respective ssroom for their respective first ss. ... As he walked towards the A-11 ssroom, he browsed his smartwatch to check his schedule by essing the Obelisk Website. ss Subjects wereposed of 7, divided into two categories: General and Elective. General subjects were considered minor subjects, while Elective subjects, were the subjects that the students had the right to choose from ording to their professions. For the first years, General Subjects consist of: 1. Emergence History and Widely known Constetions (EHWC) 2. Monster Anatomy and Evolution (MAE) 3. Dungeon Geographical System (DGS) 4. Basic Mana Theory (BMT) 5. yers'' Physical Education (PPE) The morning break urs from 9:45 A.M. to 10:00 A.M., while the lunch break was from 12:00 N.N to 1:30 P.M., and the sses end either at 4:00 P.M. or 4:30 P.M., depending on what day. Then, the Elective subjects that each student could attend were only two, which were only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. ''I feel like bing a real high-school student again... Well, it''s not like I''m a fake one either way.'' He thought as he arrived at his assigned ssroom already filled with people ¡ª his ssmates. ... Russell sat near the back of the ssroom, with seats forming an arc with its arrangement, as he nced around. He then saw a somewhat familiar face, not because he personally knew the individual in question, but rather because he knew the sibling of this person. ''Mira...'' Using the Skill: Eye of Night (EX), he wanted to know if Mira has a hidden nature that he should be wary of, especially since she''s an Unknown Element. [Activating the Skill: Eye of Night (EX)] [The Hidden Nature, as well as the Current Emotional State of the target, will be shown.] [Target''s Name: Mira von Obreyon.] [Current Emotional State: Cheerful, Worried, Anxious.] [Hidden Nature: Determined.] ''Worried and Anxious...? Then determined...?'' Russell pondered as he felt like he instantly realized what kind of person Mira was. ''She''s probably the kind of person who wants to follow his brother''s footsteps... what a clich¨¦.'' He muttered in his mind before a professor he didn''t knowe in, breaking the students'' own world of gossip. ... The man was in his thirties, with deep ck eyes under eyesses, short ck hair, and a fitted body. Russell used the Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX) to do a quick check about the rank of the professor he knew just now. ''...An S rank... He''s surely an experienced man based on his demeanor like a noble.'' "Good morning ss, I will be your professor in Monster Anatomy and Evolution. "And I am Galliard Everguard. "Before we proceed, I''ll do a quick roll call alphabetically, and by gender. Gallian Everguard spoke monotonously. ... ¨C Boys: 1. Evan Ardeen... "Present Sir!" 2. Rein Bereca... "Present Sir!" 3. ... ... 14. Russell Moon... "Present Sir!" 15. Cedric Paragon... "Present Sir!" ... ¨C Girls: 6. Anna Elesa... "Present Sir!" 7. Lyn Reya... "Present Sir!" ... 21. Mira von Obreyon... "Present Sir!" Russell looked from his side, and from a few seats apart, Mira was sitting. "Obreyon? By any chance, are you rted to Leon in the A-1 ss? His ears pricked up with Professor Galliard''s monotonous voice; it''s the same with students who didn''t know Mira. Murmurs echoed in the ssroom as though the existence of the professor in the front was forgotten. "...Yes, Sir." "Is that so..." Professor Galliard replied nonchntly to Mira''s answer, but Russell felt like Mira was somehow being mocked. ''...I guess this one is a prick, bastard, too. Russe inwardly spoke as he listened to the next words of the professor, waiting for the time to pass. ... Just like that, the lunch break came after the two professors'' orientations; one from Professor Galliard Everguard, and one from Olivia von Callipea, a noble of some sort that handles the Dungeon Geographical System. Then, during this time, the announcement regarding the details of the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam was posted on the Obelisk Website. Russell and Freya were eating the SET A meal they usually ordered for a heavy meal at the Obelisk Cafeteria One, then after a few minutes, Freya broke the silence between her and her older brother. "Oppa..." Russell ¡ª who was just a Nereian Tempura away from finishing his meal ¡ª waited for Freya''s words, which he had an idea about. "I want to apply for the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam." ''I knew it.'' He inwardly chuckled before a crunch was heard as he munched thest bit of his meal as though he was on death row. Chapter 21 Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam [2] "I''m not against it, but why?" Russell asked his younger sister even though he already has an idea about her possible answer. "...Hmm, well... Oppa, I want to fight strong people, you know. And... it will be my first time since I''ll fight someone other than Mom, Dad, or you." Although Freya has a fierce personality when it came to most people, she''s not the kind of person who wanted to fight someone out of nowhere; rather, she''s deciding on something when there''s a purpose, not with triviality. Russell knew that the participants who wanted to be part of the Disciplinary Committee would have the skills and talent, but it''s not his concern, but rather, Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President. If Freya became a part of the Disciplinary Committee at any chance, interaction with the Student Council President was something unavoidable, even though there were the major characters flocking in the Student Council. ''I don''t want to use my younger sister just to make slight connections or interfere with those bunch, and I also don''t want to restrict her to do what she wants...'' "Well, about that, you can just fight your older brother, you know." He smiled and spoke nonchntly ¡ª referring to himself in a third-person point of view ¡ª after they finished their meal. With his nonchnt, somewhat carefree way of speaking, Freyaughed softly, with obvious pre-existing reasons. "Hahaha! Oppa..." He''s weaker than her, but due to the very unexpected circumstances that had transpired; from the existence of the Chaos Training Grounds; it would be a great shock if Freya came to know that his older brother became rather strong than he usually was with a very short amount of time. "Haha, I''m just kidding! Anyway, go for it. I''ll watch over you." Russell spoke casually before the two of them checked the "two" of the announcements posted on the Obelisk Website. ... ¨C Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam Registration: This day, 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. only. Limit of Entry: 40 students. Rank Qualification for Entry: F- to C+ Venue: Obelisk Public Training Grounds. Where to Register: Student Council Office Event Schedule: June 06, after the lunch break. ¨C Electives and Clubs Registration: June 06, 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M Where to Register: For Electives, Obelisk of Virtual Technology Building; For Clubs, Obelisk Auditorium. Reminders: ¡ª Only two Electives per student. [Mandatory] ¨C Only two Clubs per student. [Optional] ... 1:15 P.M., At the door of the Student Council Office. "Uhmm... hello? Miss...? May I ask where''s the exact section to register for the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam?" After some rest and quite a distance of walking, Freya and Russell arrived at the front door of the Student Council Office where a woman with mid-length green hair, and light yellow eyes under semi-rimless eyesses was sitting on a chair just beside the Student Council Office''s door; this caused Russell and Freya to ask the woman in question, rather than knocking on the door. "Ah! Yes, yes! Good afternoon! What can I help you with?" As if the woman was shocked by their presence due to her tapping on herptop, seemingly unaware of the surroundings. ''What a hardworking kid...'' Russell thought before the woman continued to speak. "If you are going to register; state your name and which ss and year you are from. "Fortunately, there are at least 3 slots left, 1 if the two of you participate." ''That''s quite fast, it''s only been 15 minutes since the registration opened... ''Well, I guess there is the kind of several students who wanted to be a Disciplinary Officer... for an obvious reason." In the unpublished novel he had written, power was the most important basis of one''s standing in society, and with this little bit of power that being a Disciplinary Officer provides, abuse of authority was something that was not out of the question. "Freya Moon, A-1 ss, first year." Tap. Tap "Freya Moon, A-1 ss, first year." The woman, who''s one of the representatives of the second year, typed on herptop. She then looked at Russell, waiting for his response. "No, no, I''m not participating." Russell replied, while Freya just looked at him, not questioning why. "Alright then. Freya, right... so, the rules will be exined to you tomorrow before the trial exam starts. Good luck!" The woman said with a faint smile as though she was fed up with her job. ... The next day, Russell and Freya were walking around the Obelisk Public Training Grounds. It''s a massive training ground that''s avable to every student, and mostly used when the subject was about physical training like the yer Physical Education (PPE). There were five arenas inside that were made of solid material; four of which had the same dimensions and were situated on the four corners of the training ground, while the remaining one was more massive than the other four and it''s situated in the middle; this one was mostly used for mock battles. "Oppa, it''s 10 minutes remaining." Freya seemed restless that she kept tracking the time with her smartwatch. "Don''t be nervous, okay? Just do your best." Russell cheered her up genuinely. "By the way, Freya,e closer." His next words confused Freya''s face as she cocked her head to the side, regardless, she did what she had just told. Russell''s action caused his younger sister to feel bewildered; he gently patted Freya''s head three times. ... [Activating Skill: Mark of the Night (EX)] [Your Trait: Nihility haspletely concealed the Chaos Aura.] [You have sessfully used the Skill: Mark of the Night (EX) to the designated target.] [You can now track the target''s location.] [You can now feel the target''s situation if the target is in danger.] [You can now teleport to wherever the target goes.] ... [Mark of the Night] One cannot escape the "cosmic eyes" of the [Night of Primordial Chaos] as "She" always takes care of those relevant to "Her". Rank: EX ssification: Skillbook Effects: - Using the Skill: Mark of the Night to someone, you can track the location of the marked target, and teleports to the target whenever the yer desires. It could rm the yer when the marked target is in a dangerous situation. pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m - Activation Condition: Pat''s the head of the target. - Teleporting Condition: Through the yer''s thought. ... ''That''s one.'' Russell remembered to use the Skill: Mark of Night to his younger sister and parents soon, but this opportunity was given to him to do such a thing. With his Trait: Nihility, his Chaos Aura was concealed before it even seeped out of his body, and he felt like the Nihility was more than just concealment. ''If there''s a dy in concealment, the academy would surely think that there''s a monster inside the premises. Those figurative monsters would have surely detected it.'' He thought of the yers that were in the realm of S rank, working in the Obelisk Academy. ... "O-Oppa...?" She didn''t know how much time had passed, although she was aware that it''s been less than a minute. Freya wore a shocked expression at her older brother''s action. When they were kids, Russell asionally patted her head unlike when they were in their early teens just like this moment. "Good luck." Russell said as he looked at her, and smiled. ... A few minutes had passed and the time for the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam started. There were four Rank Brackets: F- to F+ ranks or the F Rank Bracket; E- to E+ ranks or the E Rank Bracket; then there were the D and C Rank Brackets. With 40 participants in total, there were 10 students for each Rank Bracket, and the trial exam would simultaneously ur in the four arenas of the four corners of the training ground. Then, with a holographic screen that''s ced on a bulletin board, the match-ups were announced. ¨C Participant Freya Moon (E) vs. Participant Karl Cromwell (E+). ... "Oppa... I thought it''s only us first years... why are there higher brackets?" ''...That bastard... Was he trying to find a possible matchup between a first and second year?'' He thought of the Student Council President, as he scrutinized the match-ups of other participants in different Rank Brackets; there were 20 students for first years and 20 students for second years. ''I see... it''s somewhat bnced, even the Rank Brackets.'' "Hmm... Look, from D and C Rank Brackets, all of them are in the second year, so don''t worry." He pointed to the holographic screen, prompting Freya to thoroughly look at it because all she did was find her matchup, not minding the others. "Okay! Let''s go Oppa, the first match will begin soon." They found two seats in the benches for the E Rank Bracket arena. ... "Good afternoon participants. I know that the rules haven''t been exined to you before, so I''ll start exining them first, and please, listen carefully. I will not repeat it the second time." Spoke by the man in his mid-forties; with short ck hair, golden eyes, a well-built body, and around 180 cm in height ¡ª the referee that''s designated to handle the E Rank Bracket matches. Based on his words, there would be 8 new Disciplinary Officers, 2 for each Rank Bracket; the battle would be divided into two categories, 1 against 1 or the individual battle, then a battle royale for the remaining students, in which thest two standing participants would be a member of the Disciplinary Committee. The participant could either surrender if he or she was losing. Then, to win, the participant needed to subjugate or knocked the enemy out of the arena. Apart from that, the participants were restricted from consuming potions of any kind. "That will be all, now... the first pair of participants, please step inside the arena if I call your name." ... Two girls were facing each other at least 10 meters apart. On the one side of the arena, the girl, waiting for the referee''s cue, has mid-back length ponytail blonde hair, slightly round, deep blue eyes, and quite a slim fair-skinned body. Her height was around 167 cm. On the other side of the arena, the other girl has a mid-length ponytail deep ck hair, hooded deep ck eyes as though it''s devoid of emotion, and a fitted, slightly fair body. Her height was around the same as the other girl. The former was holding a Training Shortsword, while thetter was holding a Training Broadsword. "Ready...! Begin!" The signal of the start of the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam went off as the first two participants shed with each other. Chapter 22 Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam (3) ''I will do my best!'' Freya thought as she remembered how her older brother had acted quite unusual by patting her head three times. ''I don''t know why Oppa did that, but I''ll take it as his support.'' She nced around on her side and saw her older brother eagerly watching the fight that was going on in the arena for the E Rank Bracket. "They''re pretty good, Oppa." Freya softly said as she retracted her gaze from her older brother, then started to watch the fight that was happening in front of them. ... After a few minutes, the referee assigned to the E Rank Bracket announced the winner of the first matchup. "Amery wins!" It was the girl with a mid-length, ponytail deep ck hair; hooded, deep ck eyes that resembled coldness, and a fitted, slightly fair body. Russell scrutinized the girl who won before he looked around and saw some of the battles going on in the other arenas through his profound vision. "Oppa, what do you think about her swordsmanship?" Freya pouted as she asked curiously. One thing about raising the level of swordsmanship or any weapon-rted fundamental skill was that it''s a very difficult thing to do. Although the Basic Swordsmanship (Lvl. 1) was trash ording to the System''s description, it didn''t mean that it''d be totally useless when performed against another person with the same rank bracket. "I don''t know. She was quite good, but she seemed to be on edge when fighting; like she wanted to skip the fight and do what she needed. Basically, she can be easily provoked if her opponent drags out the fight." ''I don''t even know that this Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam happened in detail in my unpublished novel.'' Hempooned inwardly. After he nced around, it was only normal that he didn''t see any of the major characters he had written about. The Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam was of no importance to them, and they were either dealing with some important business even on the smartwatch acting like a phone, or training inside the Training Room that every A-1 student has. "Next participants... "Begin!" Russell''s thoughts were cut off as the referee signaled the beginning of the exam for the next matchup. There were two men in the arena; one was holding a training axe, while the other was holding a pair of daggers. The former has a brute-like body, he has brown slightly round eyes, and short brown hair. His height was about 170 cm. Thetter has a good build, with slightly wide blue eyes, and short grayish hair. His height was about 169 cm. ''Axe, huh? He might be like a berserker, and the one wielding a pair of daggers is probably an Assassin.'' Russell guessed, he didn''t bother to check the Status Window of every person through his Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX), especially when he didn''t know any of them. ... After the signal from the referee, one of the custodians of the Obelisk Public Training Grounds went off; the grayish-haired man, holding a pair of daggers, rushed from his initial position towards the man on the other end, wielding an axe. Although the speed was fast, it was not something that couldn''t be seen. ''An Assassin-rted profession that does a frontal attack... Interesting.'' There were many types of Assassin professions to the point that Russell couldn''t remember every single one. ''It''s not like I''d written that many detailed professions... But it''s the first one for an Assassin-rted one to do a frontal assault against a presumably Berserker-rted profession.'' "Oppa...? You are watching with interest." His younger sister''s words broke his thoughts; he only responded with a smile. ... ''Hmm¡­ does Oppa thinks how he shouldpare to them?'' Freya thought as she looked at her older brother wearing an interesting expression. Bang-! A loud bang reverberated in the arena of the W Rank Bracket, though it should be heard throughout the whole training ground if not for the unannounced erected barrier that enveloped the four arenas where the trial exam was simultaneously happening. Apart from its purpose to contain the sound, it would help the participants to cushion the impact if they got knocked off the arena, instead of being subjugated. The brown-haired man''s training axe smashed the arena''s ground as dust lightly block off the audience''s vision, but at that moment, it seemed the decision to smash the ground and create a smoke of dust was a mistake. The grayish-haired man had taken advantage of the smoke of dust as though he was baited the brown-haired man; it''s the reason why he rushed off towards him the moment the signal went off. With the Skill: Short Blink, simr to the one that Russell''s summon, Ceru, has; the gray-haired man blinked behind the brown-haired man, and then thrust his pair of daggers provided by the Obelisk Public Training Grounds. Then, a barrier that each training suit contained has been triggered, which means that it umted the total damage capacity for its activation. It was announced by the referee just a few seconds before the battle between the first matchup started; that each training suit that every participant was wearing has a barrier, and if it was triggered, it would be considered as being subjugated. "Ken wins!" The fight didn''t evenst a minute due to the losing side being caught off-guard from behind. A thrust aimed at his chest from behind would certainly trigger the barrier to protect him. The brown-haired man stood in a stupor, unable to believe the situation that just happened, his desire to join the Disciplinary Committee, and be a Disciplinary Officer has been down the drain that fast. "W-what...?" ... ''Is this the usual clich¨¦?'' Russell thought as he couldn''t help but chuckle in his mind upon predicting what was about to happen. As the verdict was given, the brown-haired man seemed in dazed, then after a few seconds, the veins in his forehead bulged; he then looked at the grayish-haired man who was leaving the arena. Overcame with emotions, without hesitation, he leaped from his spot, and held his axe in a cleaving position, ready to cut down the back of the man who just instantly subjugated him. The grayish-haired man, the one with an Assassin-rted profession felt that something was wrong due to some intense bloodlust that was directed at him. Turning his head around, his blue eyes widened due to the nearing training axe that was about to strike him. Although the weapons used in the Obelisk Public Training Grounds were considered "training weapons", they would still be able to kill someone by any chance. The training axe was just about to hit the winner of the matchup, at least their distance was less than a meter at this moment when a bluish chain had coiled around the brown-haired man, pinning him to the ground. ''Mana Chain...?!'' Russell looked at the referee with a somewhat serious expression as he recognized the Skill: Mana Chain (A-) that costs tens of millions of O in today''s Market Value. "Take it easy, young man." Said the referee who pinned down the brown-haired man, before he nodded to the grayish-haired man as if telling him to go and he''ll take care of this situation. The brown-haired man''s mouth was even wrapped in a bluish chain and tried to struggle as though he was out of his mind. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I guess we will have a shortmercial break for a while. Haha." The referee took the aggressor coiled in bluish chains to the Disciplinary Committee Office. "Berserker bastards are really hot-headed, aren''t they?" ... Freya ¡ª who was looking at the back of the referee that''s dragging the rule-breaker of the trial exam ¡ª pricked up her ears as she heard the whisper of her older brother. Berserker was the type of Rare Profession that''s quite known for its characteristic; that the more wounds they sustained, the more powerful their strength and speed became. If the fight from earlier didn''t provide the participants a protective barrier, the gray-haired man would be at disadvantage in a prolonged fight due to the Berserker''s nature of having a great amount of Stamina. These professions were like a cat and a dog; the only way for the Berserker to lose in realbat, where life was at stake, against an Assassin-rted profession was to get instantly killed by a surprise attack. Surely, if this fight has no protective barrier, the Assassin would be at a disadvantage if the fight were prolonged, as the Berserker has great stamina. These two professions are like cat and dog, the only way for the Berserker to lose in realbat against an Assassin would be to get instantly killed by the Assassin. ... "Hmm... Oppa..." Russell looked at his younger sister from the side. "...Why...?" He asked, waiting for his younger sister to answer. At that moment, the custodian or the referee for the E Rank Bracket came into their sights. Without further ado, the referee called the names for the next matchup. "Wish me luck, Oppa." Freya stood up from her seat and then started to walk to the arena. "Good luck." He said with a smile, causing Freya to suddenly stop for a moment, and have a smile carved on her lips before she proceeded on taking her pace. After some time, Freya and her opponent were standing at least 10 meters away from each other from the two sides of the arena. ''Karl Cromwell, a swordsman, too.'' Freya thought as she scrutinized the man. He has an upright stature, with short blonde hair and blue eyes. His height was about 169. "Ready?" The referee''s voice cut off her thoughts as she looked at the referee and nodded in response, it''s the same for her opponent. With confirmation from both of them, the referee signaled the start of the fight. "Begin-!" ... "Hey!" Freya observed Karl Cromwell as she heard his voice, but she didn''t bother to answer someone that contained unfounded arrogance. "Why don''t you just surrender? I don''t want to hurt a pretty girl like you." "What?" Freya reflexively replied as she pricked up her ears upon hearing her opponent''s mumbling. "Are you deaf or ¨C " "I don''t want to. Especially with a liar like you." "What?" ''This is the kind of bastard that Oppa told me about before.'' Freya recalled her older brother''s words when they were having basic training with their parents before they went to the Obelisk Academy. ¨C There are people who will directly ask you to surrender while showing an arrogant attitude. If you can directly gauge his or her strength, and thought that you can win, just brush off their words... ''and attack them to destroy their momentum.'' She admired her older brother when it came tobat judgment. It''s something that she''s not good at. She took a nce from the seats for a second without letting her guard down to see her older brother. For some reason, Russell had a grin painted on his lips as though he knew what was up. "Hey, I''m not lying when I say you are pretty." She heard again the man, Karl Cromwell mumbled something. "I know. But you are a liar when you said that you are ready." Without waiting for her opponent to process what she had just said, she disappeared from her spot with a Blink-type skill she possesses as a Magic Swordsman. Chapter 23 Battle Royale [1] "Freya wins!" The battle ended almost instantly. It was just less than ten seconds excluding the pointless conversation between Freya and her opponent, Karl Cromwell. ''I won!'' Freya felt an overwhelming joy rushing within her. It was her first time; fighting someone other than her parents, and sometimes Russell. After some time, the participants went back to their seats as the referee called the next matchup. She looked at her previous opponent who was gritting his teeth and clenching his fists at the moment, sitting on the far right side of the benches. Freya recalled what had happened. She instantly used her Short Blink (Lvl. 1) two times to bridge the at least 10 meters distance between them. Karl Cromwell ¡ª who didn''t manage to quickly process thest words that Freya said before she strike ¡ª was left open, giving Freya the perfect opening to aim for a vital part to be struck. At that moment, Freya used the Skill: Wind Cutter (Lvl. 2), making the training sword sharper and granting it the Wind Element. Normally, Freya nned to go for an arcing sh, but it might not trigger the barrier that''s protecting her opponent, and it''s a wide attack that might have blocked or cushioned some of the impacts of the training sword. Then, trying something out, instead of an arcing sh, Freya utilized the Wind Element to propel her weapon, going for a thrust instead of an arc. This caused a destructive force through the added speed to the thrust. Apart from that, she went for Karl Cromwell''s Sr Plexus, and shockingly, even though the barrier was triggered, her opponent was still somewhat sent flying for a couple of meters, and got knocked out with his face on the arena ground. It was due to the shockwave that her stab or thrust had caused. With a Low-Grade Health and Stamina Potion that''s provided by the referee; Karl Cromwell, who became unconscious, quickly woke up. ... ''As expected of my younger sister.'' Russell had watched his younger sister just a few minutes ago. ''It seemed like she recalled something I had said before we moved into the academy premises...'' It was about the arrogant people who flocked to the Obelisk Academy. ''I know that she will grow stronger in the future, and I don''t n to keep everything from her.'' Exining such stuff about the Chaos Training Grounds, which provided him a "temporary" help to grow, and Chaos Dungeons, which seemed very ominous. ''Though exining everything will be a problem... I''ll just find my way around it.'' After some time, Russell, with his younger sister, watched the 4th matchup. Two mages were holding their own respective training staff, and respectively shooting Fireball and Ice st. ''Two opposing elements... It''s clear who has the advantage when ites to Elemental Attribute... but that''s only when referring to Element itself.'' One of the deciding factors that was not only applicable to Mage-rted professions was the "Mana Capacity" a yer has. ... ''That was interesting to watch.'' After some time, the 4th match ended, and the one who won was the Mage that was using the Skill: Fireball. Due to repeatedly blinking and firing Magic Spells, the Mage that used the Skill: Ice st became exhausted first, which could only mean one thing: her Mana Capacity was lower than her opponent, who did the same movement of blinking and firing. Russell thought about again regarding the Blink-rted skills. Although the Blink-type skills had no cooldown, a weakness to counter it exists; Tele-Interference-type skills render the use of any kind of Blink skill, as well as Teleport skill. The difference between the Blink and Teleport was simple; the former only covered short distances, while thetter was used to travel long distances. ''But, Tele-Interference-type skills are at least in the realm of A rank or above, and there''s a required profession to use such a skill...'' Russell recalled that it''s the Profession: ck Mage; this didn''t mean that it''s an evil profession, but rather, ck Mages were prone to get the interests of Evil Constetions. ... After the referee used the Mana Chain skill, Russell used the Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX) earlier. He thought as he watched the referee at this moment, presiding over the ongoing battle of the 4th matchup. ''I guess it''s a fruit of the setting I''ve written in my unpublished novel.'' He recalled what he had written about when it came to describing the Obelisk Staff or Personnel such as the custodian or referee at this moment. || They were unrivaled academy staff that no students would be able to match up, so that order could be maintained at all times. || Meaning, all of the academy staff, regardless of their positions were all powerful people in their own respective ways; whether they were Cafeteria Staff, cksmith Workshop Staff, Monster Processing Facility Staff, Herbal Garden Staff, and so on. Though some of them had no superb fighting capabilities, Russell designed them to have their own way of fighting style. ''It''s aughable setting when I thought about it.'' He cackled in his mind as he looked to his side where Freya was, watching the ongoing battle with earnest eyes. Bam-! Shing-! The exchanges of shes also prompted Russell to focus on the fight that was unfolding in front of his deep blue eyes. Both participants were holding a broadsword of their own. "Mana de." Muttered by a boy whose height was about 168 cm, with a slightly good build. A stream of Mana flowed through his training sword. Russell heard shocked reactions from some of the audience. Freya, who was shocked, too, whispered to her older brother. "Oppa... isn''t that an expensive and hard-to-find skill?" Russell chuckled before he answered without looking at his younger sister. "Hmm... I think that''s not a Mana de, he''s bluffing." "...What...?" The stupefied younger sister asked in a seemingly reflexive way. "He just coated his training sword with Mana, and pretended for it to be a Mana de." Russell was refraining himself to burst outughing due to the trick the boy had used. "That trickster bastard..." Freya reacted somewhat strongly, while he analyzed what one of the participants did. The boy who muttered Mana de just coated his training sword with Mana through Mana Control, which could be done by any yer with Mana Control skill. The Mana de was entirely different because it would cause the Mana to be like a tangible de and could easily be seen through the naked eye. While coating the weapon with Mana wouldn''t make the Mana tangible, rather, it would be swept and dance with the air as though it''s flowing water. ''Oho, that works, huh.'' The trick of the fake-Mana de user worked, considering the psychological condition of his opponent who announced his surrender upon seeing a fake-Mana de. ... "Alright,dies and gentlemen, there will be a break of 1 hour, so do whatever you want from now ande back here by 2:30 P.M. "And the basic information about your opponents will be posted in a while. That will be all, Dismiss!" The referee or one of the custodians of the Obelisk Public Training Grounds that''s been assigned to the E Rank Bracket made a short announcement. ... Some of the arena Rank Brackets ended quicker such as the F Rank Bracket, as well as the E Rank Bracket where Freya was participating. "Do you want to watch the other arenas...?" Russell asked as there were ongoing battles for the D and E Rank Brackets. "Can we?" Freya asked with anticipation, but Russell was just about to reply when he noticed with his profound vision that the other two remaining Rank Brackets simultaneously ended. "I guess we won''t be able to see others fight." He said to his dejected younger sister who wanted to watch the fight between the students with a higher rank than them. ... After the first round of matches, and after a few minutes since the short break was given; the basic information of the remaining participants was posted through a holographic screen of one of the bulletin boards in the training ground. ... Battle Royale per Rank Bracket list: F Rank Bracket 1. Mira von Obreyon (F+) ¨C A-11 2. ire Bachiler (F+) ¨C A-7 3. Kevin Hue (F+) ¨C A-9 4. Rnd Hesse (F+) ¨C A-12 5. Violet Loredan (F) ¨C A-12 E Rank Bracket 1. Amery Blight (E+) ¨C A-1 2. Ken Raven (E+) ¨C A-3 3. Freya Moon (E) ¨C A-1 4. Roxie Luvile (E) ¨C A-6 5. Rekker Wolf (E) ¨C A-6 ... Russell checked the participants for the lower-ranked brackets and didn''t bother to check the second year''s list that might have presumably joined the trial exam without informing the first year due to what the Student Council President wanted. ''There''s Mira, too...'' After checking the list, he analyzed what he recalled based on previous matchups. ''Amery Blight is the Swordsman who wields a broadsword, while Ken Raven must be the one with an Assassin-rted profession that was almost mmed by a training axe... ''Hmm... Roxie Luvile? She''s probably the Mage with who uses Fireball, and Rekker Wolf... the Swordsman who tricked his opponent. Russell guessed using the process of elimination by recalling the names that the referee shouted, as well as their respective weapons. ''I don''t know anything about Mira''s opponents, though.'' "Hey, Oppa! What are you thinking about?" He was snapped back from his lost thoughts as he heard his younger sister''s voice. "I just thought of Mira, she''s participating, too" He replied casually, but it seemed that his younger sister took it differently. "Why, do you like her?" She asked as she slightly strongly elbowed Russell from his side; at that moment, her deep blue eyes constricted as if her previous question has been totally forgotten. "Whaaat...? Oppa, your body¡­" Freya seemed in a stupor, but she didn''t manage to finish her words as Russell interjected. "What are you talking about? Let''s grab something first." Russell held her wrist and gently dragged her to the nearest cafeteria, a few minutes away from the Obelisk Public Training Grounds. ''She''s probably going to ask about my body which is sturdier than before due to my Constitution stat. ''Although she sometimes pinches my cheek or pushes my shoulder, the change in my Constitution was barely to not noticeable. ''Sigh... I don''t know what she''s thinking right now, but now is not the time for this.'' He thought as he silently admired his younger sister''s instinct that something was amiss with his body during that short moment. ... The two of them arrived at the cafeteria named, Obelisk Cafeteria Two. Russell inwardly let out a self-deprecating smile as he was reminded of how bad his naming sense was... That he couldn''te up with a name for cafeterias and just named them one by one using consecutive numbers. "We should order light meals, what do you want?" "Uhmm¡­ That yogurt from Etheria... Etherian Yogurt Cheesecake." His younger sister replied, but he knew that she was somewhat lost in thoughts because of earlier. After a few minutes, the waitress came with their order. "Hey." "Yaaaay. That hits the spot." Enjoying her desserts, Freya rubbed her belly under the training uniform that the participants wore during the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam. "Uhmm, sorry Oppa." She dejectedly replied without looking at him. "I''ll tell you, but now is not the right time, okay? Focus on your battle first." Russell reminded her not to lose focus, then as if she understood what he said, her normal expression came back as if nothing happened. ''She understands that I know what she is about to ask... and I''m not the kind who will keep a secret remain as a secret, unlike some main characters I''ve read in my previous life.'' He thought before he said casually to the enthusiastic Freya. "You should go easy on Battle Royale." As if she understood what he told her, she just put on a wicked smile on her face as she continued consuming her remaining desserts. Chapter 24 Battle Royale [2] After a few minutes of sitting in the Obelisk Cafeteria Two, Russell and Freya went back to the Obelisk Public Training Grounds. There were roughly 15 minutes left until the beginning of the ''Battle Royale'' for every Rank Bracket. Walking for some time, the two of them found their usual seats and sat there, while waiting for the remaining time to pass as they watched other students that were not participants of the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam temporarily using the four arenas. ''Are those third years?'' Russell inwardly thought as he saw with his profound vision the middle of the training ground that was reserved for mock battles. Then, some first-years and second-years were not using the arena, but rather the training dummies from the perimeter. Although there were many students with different professions in Russell''s sights, he didn''t bother to check every one of them because aside from the Status Appraisal Skills like his Gaze of the Abyss (EX), one of the ways to guess one''s profession was to check the weapon they were holding or how they behaved. ''Though it''s hard to guess, at least the yer will have a rough idea about the possible skills or fighting style of the other party.'' Russell thought as he was sitting with his younger sister, who was chewing at the moment as she bought something like gum before they went back. "Oppa, oppa. What do you think about the difference between Profession and ss? I wonder why such a trivial thing exists." Freya asked out of nowhere, causing Russell to feel pangs of needles that seemingly poked themselves in his chest. ''I''m sorry Freya, your brother was a foolish author.'' Hempooned inwardly before he pondered about his younger sister''s question. "Well, I guess it''s just for formality and informality, you know. ''Profession'' is used in a formal setting, while ''ss'' is for informal setting or situation like when talking to a peer or having real-lifebat." Russell expressed what he recalled in his unpublished novel. "I know what it means, it just seems unnecessary... Though I''m d we are not using it in the academy, it''s confusing. Haha." Freya cackled before the ticking of time passed by quickly. ... Without doing anything purposeful at the moment, and with just a few minutes left since the start of the Battle Royale per Rank Bracket ¡ª the decider match on who would be a part of the Disciplinary Committee; Russell ¨C who felt bored guessing the professions of some of the students ¨C scanned the surroundings and tried to repeatedly use the Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX), though he''s not interested in reading everything in other students'' Status Windows, he took a peek to their Professions. ''There''s quite a few Rare professions and no unique... I guess there''s no one here that is contracted with a Constetion.'' Having a contract with a Constetion, causing something like Profession Evolution was a private thing, and must not be divulged easily by the contractee. A yer could decline a Constetion''s offer, and the Constetion couldn''t force the yer to sign a contract with the prospected contractee. Though, there were some ways in which a Constetion could threaten the yer of interest in signing a contract; it''s up to the yer of interest if the threats were just a bluff or could be taken seriously. ''I wonder what would have happened when I rejected the Goddess of Night''s offer... But I feel like refusing wasn''t an option.'' "Oppa... what are you thinking about..?" Russell''s little reverie ended upon hearing his younger sister''s words. After pondering a little, Russell answered by asking a question to Freya. "Freya... do you know Amery Blight? I saw she''s your ssmate." Not everyone in the A-1 ss had been written in detail in his unpublished novel, just like Freya''s existence. Russell didn''t know everyone that was currently in the A-1 ss aside from his younger sister and quite a number of people including the major characters. ''It''s the same case with Freya''s friend that she made... I didn''t know that cheerful person.'' Russell looked at his younger sister, who was pondering for some time. "I remember her yesterday after the Student Weing Ceremony, and even though it''s just the second day since the sses started, she''s already getting bullied by some hoodlums in the ss. Apart from that, I think she''s a loner." ''Hoodlums...'' Russell pondered a little about the word that Freya used when she spoke nonchntly. He asked because when he scanned some of the students'' Status Windows randomly, he did the same with Amery Blight, who was sitting alone while waiting for the match to start. With that, he noticed something on her Status Window. ... Profession: Swordsman, [Sealed] Unique Skill: [Sealed] ... As he racked his brain for the possible indication of the Sealed Profession and Unique Skill of Amery, the Goddess of Night sent him a message through the System. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', asks you to keep an eye on the individual named Amery Blight.] [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', goes back to "Her" sleep after smiling mischievously at "Her" champion.] ... ''Hmm... I feel like I get the gist of the Goddess of Night''s intention. ''I''ll include her in the list in "making" that, including Maya, in the future.'' Maya''s one of the salesclerks in the yer General Store where Russell bought some necessities before encountering the Goddess of Night in the Hidden Dungeon. "Ladies and Gentlemen, the Battle Royale for the E Rank Bracket will nowmence. For our remaining five participants, please proceed to the arena." The words of the referee or the custodian assigned for the E Rank Bracket cut off Russell''s thoughts. "Oppa, it''s my cue...!" Freya stood up, looked at her older brother, and revealed a faint smile before proceeding to the arena. Russell responded with the same smile as he nodded his head, silently bidding her good luck. "Whoo-!" Shouted reverberated in the soundproof barrier that''s covering the arena for the E Rank Bracket. Students flocked everywhere to the Battle Royale they wanted to watch. ... In the arena, the five remaining participants of the E Rank Bracket formed a circle by maintaining their distance of at least 10 meters apart. They were grasping their respective weapons while observing each other with cautiousness in their eyes. Two of the five participants; Rekker Wolf, the one who tricked his opponent in the fifth match of the first round, and Roxia Luvile, the Mage with Skill: Fireball seemed uneasy. Amery Blight and Ken Raven were eyeing each other, although it was mostly Amery that did the intense re as if she found Ken Raven worthy of being cut down first, which caused him to be on guard against her even though the start signal has yet to go off. ''Oppa didn''t give me any advice... I wonder how should I proceed with this... Well, I''ll have to aim for that bastard first.'' "Are all of you ready?" The referee asked, cutting off Freya''s train of thought. "The same rules are applied; your training suit has been enchanted to withstand a maximum amount of damage before it will trigger a barrier, and if the barrier was triggered, it means you are out. "It is the same if you get knocked out of the arena or rendered unconscious, and..." Even though the referee said that the same rules were applied, he still repeated them, but this time, he followed up with a warning due to the case with someone earlier who couldn''t control his emotions. "No questions?" The five participants fell silent before they nodded, and at that time, the referee raised his right hand, and then said the start signal. "Begin!" ... Russell didn''t give a few pieces of advice to his younger sister on purpose, but it was alright because Freya knew herself that she didn''t need to be always dependent on her older brother. ''I knew it...'' Russell thought about the pettiness that he, and his younger sister, Freya has. Freya rushed towards the man, Rekker Wolf ¡ª the one who tricked his opponent by making him surrender by faking a Mana de. At that moment, something that Freya didn''t expect tingled her senses as she quickly dodge from the side, unable to cut down Rekker whose eyes widened with the very unexpected attack as soon as the battle started. Boom-! A Fireball hit the ground of the arena that was originally targeted at Freya. Her momentum slightly faltered during the unexpected attack behind her back as she looked with her constricted deep blue eyes to Roxia Luvile, who fired the Skill: Fireball against her. "So this is how it''s gonna be, huh...?" An intimidating blue aura due to her Mana-rted skills that came from her Trait: Blessed One emanated from her body. The two participants; Rekker Wolf and Roxia Luvile, who talked about teaming up before the start of the Battle Royale looked at Freya with a somewhat nervous look, but after a few seconds, theyposed themselves and did a coordinated assault against Freya. Rekker Wolf, a Swordsman, did a frontal assault, while Roxia Luvile, a Mage, did support from the rear by aiming for an opening, causing Freya to split her focus. It''s a well-done, simple strategy, but very far-off coordination whenpared to High-Rank yers in a party. "Is dodging all you can do? I guess your luck of getting me off-guard ran out!" Bam-! But, Freya ¡ª who learned about her older brother''s advice ¡ª just proceeded to sh with Rekker as she didn''t reply because she''s someone who adhered to the saying "Less Talk, Less Mistake". ... After a few exchanges of strikes, while maintaining her alertness from Roxia''s possible surprised attack, Freya vanished from her spot. "W-what?" Rekker, who didn''t expect such a development, muttered in disbelief; there''s one thing he didn''t ount for, which was Freya''s specific profession, although he had no way of knowing without Status Appraisal Skills, it was better to presume such a case. At that moment, Rekker saw Freya, who vanished with Skill: Short Blink, behind Roxia, wielding the training sword prepared to cleave Roxia down through her neck. Bam-! Then, he was about to make a response when Roxia vanished from where she was standing, causing Freya to hit the ground. ... "I knew you''d do that." Freya''s cold voice sounded behind Roxia''s ears after she just used the Skill: Short Blink Roxia attempted to use the Skill: Short Blink as a Mage, but, it failed due to the nervousness she felt and the short time it needed for the skill to be triggered. Bang-! A diagonal sh reached Roxia''s neck, but before it made contact, the Barrier Enchantment has been triggered, stopping Freya''s training sword in midair. "Participant: Roxia Luvile, out!" The referee''s voice reverberated in the arena, temporarily stopping the two; Amery Blight and Ken Raven from battling each other. Chapter 25 Battle Royale [3] "H-how?! Your rank is about the same as us... "Ha-!" After a few seconds, just after the referee announced Roxia Luvile''s loss, Rekker Wolf rushed toward Freya with admirable speed. Pak-! Pak-! The dull training sword that was made of solid materials; not all wooden, but not mostly metal shed against each other through the hands of the two participants. After a minute or two of exchanging strikes, Rekker took a distance away from Freya while guarding himself against the possible usage of the Skill: Short Blink. "I guess I need to use this... Mana -" "Shut your f*cking lying mouth." Freya cut off his words, and she then instantly disappeared from her spot before appearing less than a meter away in front of Rekker. Being on guard, he quickly close off his mouth and anticipated Freya''s attack. With the training sword in his right hand, he made a diagonal sh so that Freya won''t be able to dodge easily. But, at that moment, as the sh was cleaving down on her, she leaned back, twisted her body to the side, and made an upward sh aiming at Rekker''s chin; it was like an uppercut, but involving a training sword. Bam-! Freya''s training sword struck Rekker''s chin, but before it made physical contact, a barrier was erected, ending the fight between Freya and Rekker. If the Barrier Enchantment don''t exist, Rekker''s head would be flying upward because of a mere "Obelisk-made" training sword. "Rekker Wolf, out!" The referee spoke firmly. "Whoo-!" Shouted reverberated in the E Rank Bracket arena. ... The other remaining two participants looked at Freya with different expressions; she then stared back at them. There''s only one left to be eliminated so that the Battle Royale would end. The other two; Amery Blight, and Ken Raven, without having any intention of cooperating with thetter, the former continued to attack, resuming where they left off. Freya sat on the ground, but far from the edge of the arena while keeping her distance from the remaining participants and staying cautious for the unexpected. Although she''s somewhat exhausted, she''s still good at continuing the fight. She lovedbat, but she was not the kind of person who would just jump in on every opportunity to fight others; apart from her Trait: Blessed One due to the Title: Blessed by the System, another reason she''s in A-1 ss was that she''s an intelligent person who could make rationalized decisions. The fight between the two heated up. Ken Raven''s expression seemed to tell something to Amery, but her expression seemed to be out of any logic. ... A woman wielding a training broadsword, and a man wielding a pair of training daggers shed, exchanging the skills they possessed as the fierce battle going on. Ken Raven, who utilized the predictablebat style of a Berserker, was having a hard time against his opponent, who seemed to possess a cold-blooded nature. "Why won''t you listen to my suggestion, huh...? She''s exhausted! We can-" "Shut the fuck up!" Ken Raven suggested that they should team up and should go against Freya, who was somewhat exhausted. To no avail, Amery Blight''s voice cut off his words as she jumped in the air, then her training broadsword drew an arc of Wind Element ¡ª something that Freya was very familiar with; Skill: Wind Cutter. Unable to dodge on time, Ken Raven tried to block the iing strike, though he blocked it, it wasn''t a full one; without giving him the time to regain his momentum, a follow-up attack aimed at his neck almostnded if not for the Barrier Enchantment which caused Amery''s training broadsword to stop midair as a transparent shield enveloped Ken''s body. ''This one is a monster, too... I guess I just need to be stronger next time.'' He thought as he humbly epted his loss. "Ken Raven, out!" "Participants Amery Blight and Freya Moon win! "Congrattions on bing the Disciplinary Officer of the Disciplinary Committee! "Take note of the further announcement regarding the meeting between the Student Council and Disciplinary Committee. That will be all." "Whoa-!!!" The shout of praises reverberated across the entire E Rank Bracket arena. ... "As expected of A-1 students! They''re the best!" "Right?! I didn''t know they are in A-1 ss before the Battle Royale!" "I guess they didn''t make it there half-heartedly, you know!" ps and whispers continued to resound in the E Rank Bracket. There were also words of envy aside from praises that could be heard from some of the audience. Russell looked at his younger sister, striding towards his seat with a joyful smile on her face. Without missing the other winner, Russell noticed Amery Blight looking at Freya. Amery then retracted her gaze but saw someone looking at her, prompting her to have a curious expression for a second as Freya reached Russell''s seat. "Oppa! I did it!" Russell smiled at his younger sister who reached his seat. "Congrattions! I guess you should pay for dinnerter, right?" He said with a sarcastic tone, but he would probably agree if Freya would pay for their dinner. Freya intensely red at him, prompting him to retract what he just said. "I''m kidding, the dinner is on me, okay!" He followed up quickly, causing Freya''s mood to return to being joyful after winning the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam. "...Yey!" Unlike the fierce demeanor she had in the arena just a moment ago, Freya''s cheerful voice and gentle expression prompted the other remaining students, who were still in the vicinity to look at her with stupefied expressions. After a minute or two, just as they walked around the Obelisk Public Training Grounds, Freya looked at her smartwatch. "By the way, Oppa! I have to go first, I received a message from my ssmate; she said that we''re being called for the Mana Theory ss. Tsk. It''s almost 3 P.M., I should have stalled for a time earlier." She frowned, but Russell chuckled at her words. ''That''s A-1 ss for you... busy even after just the trial exam.'' He thought as they left the training grounds where there were still ongoing trial exams for the second years. ... The Obelisk Academy had nevercked in personnel or faculty... To the point that even though the schedule was very same for everyone, from A-1 to A-12 sses, there were almost different instructors for every subject, especially from A-4 to A-12. Freya, who took a few minutes of walking, arrived at the A-1 ssroom situated in the Teacher''s Faculty Building. As he entered the ssroom, she saw the first friend she made since arriving at the Obelisk Academy. "Amelie!" Freya called out to Amelie, the name of the girl she made friends with. Amelie Rose Merveil, her full name; has mid-back length pink hair that she either does in a ponytail or twin-tail, depending on her mood; she has roundish-almond ruby eyes and a fine body. Her height was about 167 cm. "Hey, Freya! Congrats! You were so good earlier! I was there, you know, though I was a bitte. Heh heh. "...I''m about to approach you after yourst match, but yeah... I can''t, I saw you with someone." Amelie said with a cheerful smile on her face, causing Freya to respond with a smile before she said casually. "He''s my older brother, by the way." "...What...?! Older brother ?! Why didn''t you say so before? You only told me that you''ll introduce me to someone without rifying your rtionship. You know, I thought he was your boyfriend!" Amelie spoke in a somewhat confused yet expressive manner; Freya was prompted to stand up from her seat as she mildly shouted, reflexively reacting to Amelie''s words. "What!?" "Tss. Stop being flustered, Freya. You''re the one who didn''t make it clear to me. I''m embarrassed to approach him because I thought I''ll be an extra, but thanks for saying that just now. "By the way, what ss is he in...?" Amelie was feeling relieved, she was not the type of person who wanted to ruin a person''s life or rtionship, especially unintentionally. "Hmm... He''s in A-11 ss." Freya answered casually, while ncing around the A-1 ssroom that''s wide, but onlyposed of 40 students seats. "A-11? That''s quite a big gap between you and him." She asked in confusion, then Freya responded with a faint smile. "Yeah, he''s azy one, but it doesn''t matter. Haha." "You''re probably right, as long as a yer graduates here, it''ll be a great advantage for the future, right." As Freya and Amelie ¡ª who was seated behind the ssroom ¡ª continued their chattering, a girl with deep ck hair and deep ck eyes which seemed devoid of emotions were standing in front of them, causing the both of them to stop talking. Freya tilted her head as she looked at the girl in front of her; she then asked in confusion. "Amery... Why?" "Let''s meet together in the hallway near the right stairs for the next floor." As if she was a boss, Amery just left after saying what she wanted. "W-what? Hey!" Freya raises her voice slightly; she was about to attempt to reach behind her when everyone in the ss heard a creaking sound. ... Everyone''s own world seemed to stop upon the presence who entered the A-1 ssroom. A woman with waist-length tinum hair, purple eyes that seemed to be perfect in shape, and a voluptuous body that seemed to befit a model; was standing at the front of the ssroom. She''s wearing a white blouse that''s entuating her chest, ck jeans that seemed to be a perfect partner for her clothes, and standard formal ck shoes for women. Freya and her ssmates stared in dazed at the woman in front as if they were bewitched by some kind of unknown power; and after a few seconds, as if nothing happened, Professor Ayleen or Ms. Ayleen Mayfield spoke in a charming voice as though opposing her was something impossible. "Hello, I''m sure that all of you know who I am already. "I''ll be teaching you the Basic Mana Theory, but fret not, formal sses will start next week. "Again, I''m here to remind you of the rules and regtions of the academy, especially since you are in this ss. "Apart from that, I called you here, just after the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam for first years because of an announcement. "Normally, it should be posted on the Obelisk Website, but I decided to make time to meet you here right now. The whole ss silently listened to Ms. Ayleen without any interruptions. "Alright, announcement! Everyone''s Obelisk Personal ount''s full function will now be unlocked. Before, all of you only sees your ss schedules without the instructors'' names. "But now, each one of your instructors will have a separate section where future lessons will be posted. Then... ... After some time of exining, Ms. Ayleen Mayfield left the ss. Freya recalled every important detail. ¨C Obelisk Personal ount (OPA) A multifunctional ount that each student has. It''s proof that the yer was a student of the Obelisk Academy. A student could see their schedules, and personal test results, and a virtual private room with each subject where students and designated instructors could interact virtually ¨C like a social media exclusive for Obelisk students. Apart from that, the Obelisk Personal ount could also be used as a Bank ount through the Obelisk I.D. as proof of identity; every A-1 student received an advance incentive worth 15,000 Obel just by bing an A-1 student. ''What a luxurious privilege, but I bet this money won''t be worth a thing when ites to those people.'' Freya thought inwardly before she and Amelie left the ssroom to meet Amery to find out what she wanted. Chapter 26 Electives And Clubs After a few minutes of walking, they arrived at the right stairs leading to the next floor of the building; currently, they were on the first floor of the Student Public Grounds within the Teachers'' Faculty Building. Freya saw Amery Blight leaning on the wall near the right stairs, lost in her own world as few students walked by. She then called out to her. "Hey!" Amery was snapped out of her stupor upon hearing a familiar voice, prompting her to look at Freya; but as soon as she saw Amelie Rose, a frown formed on her face. "She''s with me." Amery understood what Freya said, and without beating around the bush, Amery spoke seriously, causing Freya to constrict her deep blue eyes. "Fight with me." ... ''What the hell is this?'' Freya thought upon hearing Amery''s words. She remembered what Russell, her older brother had said before. - Some individuals cannot just ept others being equal to them without proof, you know. If you encounter someone like that, you would have no choice but to agree to a fight because if you ignore them, they''ll just keeping. "Fine... I ept." She replied after just a few seconds of silence as though hesitation wasn''t an option for her. "But... let it be a formal fight, like in the future practical exams. I''m pretty sure that there will be mock battles in the future, so... yeah. "By the way, don''t think anything absurd like I epted your offer quickly because I believe I''m stronger than you, and somehow belittling you or whatsoever, it''s nothing like that. "It''s just... I don''t pick fights without a purpose. That''s all." Amery''s face formed a wondrous expression with a mix of disbelief due to the almost instant eptance of her offer to fight her, even though there was a condition that it should be in a formal event. "Okay..." Amery replied, though, with aloofness, her eyes seemed to waver for some reason only known to her. ... "Hmm. Do you want toe with us...? You know, Electives and Clubs." Amelie Rose, as if waiting to chime in in the conversation invited Amery to join them; Freya didn''t mind it, and it''s better to have another person she could talked with. Without waiting for Amery''s answer, Amelie Rose dragged her wrist with a cheerful smile on her face. The confused Amery responded as she staggered for a moment. "H-hey stop. Don''t drag me, I''lle anyway." With that, Amelie Rose let go of her wrist and continued their pace to check the list of Electives and Clubs. After walking for some time, Freya texted her older brother. ... Sent: 4:09 P.M. - "Oppa, I''m with my friend, where are you? We''ll go to where you are. ... Freya slowed down walking before she said to Amelie and Amery; the two people who seemed to have a very opposite personality. "Let''s go to the Registration Center for Electives first." ... "Oppa!" Russell heard his younger sister''s voice as she called out to him as he was walking just outside of the Obelisk of Virtual Technology Building, where the Obelisk Registration Center for Electives could be found. It''s also the ce where every freshmen this academic year took their written entrance exam. A student could register or enroll for 2 Elective subjects on the Obelisk Registration Center. Russell decided for this ce first because he knew that even though there was about 4 hours of window given to registration, most students would flock to the Obelisk Auditorium to register to Clubs first. ''Some of them still had doubts on what they''ll take.'' The students or yers with more than one profession that seemed unrted might have a hard time choosing the Electives rted to their professions unless they had already decided on it before even getting admitted to the Obelisk Academy. ''...That...?'' ... "Oppa, hello! This is my friend, Amelie, then this one is Amery, you know... the one in the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam." Freya introduced Amelie, the cheerful friend she made, and Amery, who was dragged by Amelie. ''I don''t know them in the original story... Also, Amery has an aloof atmosphere or cold personality... Is she perhaps a tsundere?'' Russell thought, but he quickly dismissed the possibility because he felt that Amery was the kind of woman who would never prioritize something like romance. "Hello, nice to meet you, Amelie... and Amery... I''m Russell, Freya''s older brother." ''What''s with this almost rhymed names. It''s quite yfulbination of names. If one isn''t attentive enough, this two women can be mistaken with each other.'' He greeted them while slightly scratching his head, acting the usual shy guy he was. Though he has a 33-year-old mentality excluding his years in this world, he was instinctive with making such a reaction when meeting people he didn''t know for the first time. With his family, his Social Anxiety was nonexistent, but when it came to other people even today, sometimes he felt like suffering from PTSD that had chased him to this world. "Hi Russell, you''re the one I saw in the Obelisk Public Training Ground after Freya won. You know, I thought you were his boyfriend. Haha, my bad!" Said the girl with a mid-length pink hair in twintail while her hands at her back, and slightly leaning her body. Her ruby eyes then scrutinized him with a cheerful smile on her face. ''This one is a talkative type. It''s a weirdbination if this girl is lump with Amery.'' He thought as he respond with a smile before telling Freya to proceed with registration. ... Inside the Obelisk of Virtual Technology (OVT) Building, at Obelisk Registration Center (ORC), just a few minutes away by walk from the Obelisk Auditorium. Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery nced around after they entered the building where they took the written exam. Its interior was intricate, and somehow made of gaudy white walls and ceilings. "Oppa, there are several students already." Freya muttered, seemingly feeling dejected with the thought that they wouldn''t be able to register quickly. "Hmm. it''s fine, they probably have no time to amodate students personally. "Look at that holographic screens." Russell pointed towards a few white bulletin boards with his right index finger from a distance; he saw it from afar with his profound vision, thanks to his Trait: Under the Night. These white bulletin boards were projecting the Elective subjects that a first year student could choose from. Electives, in a sense, were the permanent subjects a yer or student could take throughout their academy years, then the difficulty of these subjects increased when the yer or student advanced to their next year; from first until up to third. A best example of this was if the yer or student chose to take the Elective: Swordsmanship; from first to third year, the lessons would only be about it. From first year, it would cover the Basic to Mid-level; second year, the Intermediate level, and third year, the Advanced and Expert level. The third year was more focused on practical than theoretical, and must possessed a "Sword Technique" already, but with the help of Obelisk Academy, third year students would receive a "Free" Sword Technique with limited options to choose from, depending on one''s profession. Russell pondered on what Electives he would register or choose, considering that he already had a Sword and then Scythe Technique. "Oppa, have you decided yet on what you''ll take?" His younger sister cut off his various thoughts as she, Amelie, and Amery was staring at the bulletin white boards where''s the projection of holographic screens could be seen. ... "Hmm... Introduction to Melee Weapons." He muttered, though there''s quite a noise due to numerous other students, his voice could still be heard by Freya and the other two women. "W-what?!" Freya looked at him in disbelief and with bewildered expression. It was not just her, but also Amelie and Amery; they looked at him with the same expression that Freya had. ''It''s an understandable reaction, though.'' The Elective: Introduction to Melee Weapons wasn''t focused on just a sword, but rather themonly used melee weapons such as spear, mace, rod, shield, gauntlet and so on. It would mean the division of learning, not having the depth in knowledge on how to wield just one weapon skillfully. This Elective was only appropriate to be taken if the yer or student has a Skill: Weapon Mastery, this was a rare skill; not rare in rank, but rather rare to find. "Hey, what''s with that reaction...? I just want to learn other weapons, you know." "B-but that''s basically useless right, Oppa?" ''Well, she''s technically right.'' Russell thought inwardly as he browsed with his deep blue eyes the other Elective subjects. Learning to wield other weapons that were not aligned with the yer''s profession was basically useless, though, it would only let a yer to learn up to Intermediate level, but a Swordsman profession wouldn''t be able to learn a Spear-rted Technique even if the yer learned up to Intermediate Spearmanship. "Yeah, you have a point, but who knows, maybe it maye in handy someday." "Sigh... alright, Oppa. How about the other Elective?" Russell slightly scratched his head with Freya''s question. ''I''d rather not tell her that at the moment, it''s f*cking embarrassing when I thought about it; and that guy will also be there for sure.'' "That..." Russell kept his mouth shut, and as if his younger sister understood that he somehow couldn''t tell at the moment, she just shrugged it off. "Fine, anyway, I''ll take Magic Utilization and Introduction to Sword Technique, though I don''t have a Sword Technique yet, I heard that we''ll be given Basic Technique Skill depends on our profession after the first semester as first years." Apart from the "technique" that would be given when they became third year, a "technique" or Skillbook regarding one''s profession would be provided after the first semester during their first year; along the way, the "technique" that they would learn must be honed so that it wouldplement well to the "technique" they might acquire when they reached third year. "...How about you Amery?" Amelie interjected as she asked the aloof woman who seemed to never smile. ... "Sigh... why they didn''t just post it in the Obelisk Website?" Freyampooned inwardly after they came to learn the instructions on how to register their respective Electives. ... ''Upon choosing the appropriate electives, please follow the instructions: 1. Log in to your Obelisk Personal ount 2. Go to ''Elective Registration'' section 3. Choose two electives, and; 4. Click ''Submit'' NOTE: - The Electives cannot be changed as per Obelisk Rules, please refer to your profession before choosing. - There are no maximum student amodation for an elective. - Wait for the notification of your schedule update on your Obelisk Personal ount. ... Russell recalled the instruction posted on one of the bulletin white boards as he pondered for some time before he answered his younger sister''s question. "It''s probably about testing our discipline." If the students couldn''t learn how to discipline themselves with the simplest of things, they would easily die when raiding a Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Tower with worst environmental condition and behavior. "Anyway, let''s go to the Obelisk Auditorium for Club Registration." He casually added, which somewhat improved his younger sister''s mood before they strode towards the Obelisk Auditorium. Chapter 27 First Formal Classes [1] Russell, Freya, and the two other women, after grabbing a quick bite from the nearest cafeteria, arrived at the Obelisk Auditorium where the Student Weing Ceremony was held for the freshmen of this academic year. There were many sections ¡ª simr to how a simple booth was set up ¡ª that were lined up across the Obelisk Auditorium, but even so, there was still a huge space that remained unupied due to its massive size. A few seniors ¡ª either from the second year or the third year ¡ª lined up in their respective Clubs, handling the registration of the first-year students; though there were some second-year and third-year students who were registering since they didn''t manage when they were on the first year; probably because they didn''t feel like joining when they were new students in the academy, and through time, their minds changed. "Oppa... what''s that Club?" Freya pointed to one of the lined-up sections near the middle end of the Obelisk Auditorium. Russell''s deep blue eyes constricted upon reading the banner of the Club. It''s one of the elements he knew in his unpublished novel, but it''s not something to be worried about at this moment. "FOH Club? What''s that...? Future of Humanity? Hahaha! That''s cringe as hell!" Amelie answered Freya''s question and cackled as she read the banner or poster that introduced the Club''s name, as well as its motto. Surprisingly, though its name was something that one could mostly read in a dystopian-themed story, many students were flocking to their section to register. ''These students either were infatuated or wanted to leech off them by hoping to be a part of their Guild.'' As Russell recalled, there were 5 main heads of the FOH Club, but at this moment, only 2 were present and amodating the students who wanted to be a part of their Club. Future of Humanity ¨C led by the arrogant two-faced aristocrats that were not different from their parents, but that''s not the problem with them, but rather the connection that these people had. Though their Guild wasn''t in the TOP 10, it''s considerable in strength and resources. ''They are boot lickers of their respective parents, who are envious of the TOP 5 Guilds. It''s the reason that they bear secret animosity against the major characters I''ve written about.'' Russell thought as he started to walk towards the Club he wanted to register to, prompting Freya and the duo to subconsciously follow him. Hierarchy exists with the 5 seniors or main heads of the FOH Club; the two who were amodating the students probably belong to fifth and fourth in their hierarchy. ¨C Este Lionfield (fifth) ¨C Ron Adler (fourth) ¨C Hayes von Deguis (third) ¨C Summer von Aere (second) ¨C Edward von Fulminare (first) "Oppa, do you think we should check out the FOH Club? It might be an enjoyable club, you know... since many students are flocking there. Russell''s thoughts were cut off by his younger sister''s words; she might have thought that they would check it out since the section of the Club that Russell wanted to register to was only a few sections away from it. "Freya, enjoyable you say? You might as well join a cult. That''s suspicious as hell." Amelie scoffed as she interjected, to which Russell agreed silently. Themon events that the FOH Club held were mostly parties; to gain the favor of the new students, secretly recruiting the promising ones while excluding the remaining ones they considered trash. "No, I also don''t want that Club... but this... is what I want." Russell stood in front of a certain section that had a few students lining up. "The Ryokou Club." ... A week had passed since the beginning of the sses, but this week onwards would be the start of "formal sses" sincest week was only about the introductions of the professors, an overview of the subjects they handled, as well as some reminders. Freya, Russell, and the two women had finished their registration for the mandatory Electives and voluntary Clubs. As this was her first time experiencing such a thing, the Club was exined to them in general upon joining one, but with the ignorance she had about it, she just followed her older brother and joined the club he had chosen to register to. ''Though I don''t know why those two also joined us.'' She thought inwardly as she walked, nearing the ssroom of A-1 ss; she then heard a voice and soft footsteps from behind. "Hey, Freya. Good morning! How''s the weekend?" Amelie, with an unrelenting smile that''s painted on her face, bumped into her as soon as they reached the door of the ssroom. "Good morning, too." She greeted in response, then a few minutester, they saw Amery Blight enter the ssroom through the front door; the door near the front of the ssroom where a stage for teaching was situated. Freya and Amelie had greeted her from their respective seats while Amery''s seat was in the front, but they just received a cold shoulder. "This girl, really..." Amelie Rose murmured, quite stupefied, though one could judge the personality of Amery based on her demeanor, she hung out with themst time, but when Freya thought about it, it was more like she got dragged by Amelie. "Leave her. Hmm... About your Electives, what did you choose? You didn''t tell us when we went sightseeing." Freya asked Amelie, to change the subject regarding Amery. "It''s the same as you, you know... Magic Utilization." She responded casually, sending Freya to ponder a little before she spoke her thoughts. "That''s a relief, I hope we are going to be ssmates when taking Electives because I don''t know how the sses will be divided due to the absence of maximum students to be amodated on one Elective." "You''re right, but I think we will be lumped with each other, along with other A-1 students." Amelie replied as she supported her chin with one of her hands as she nced at Freya. "Then, about the other Elective, I''ve registered on Introduction to Support Technique." "W-what? You''re a Support-type ss? I mean profession." Freya asked with wonder and confusion. "Hahaha, hey, we are close enough to address each other''s profession as ''ss'', so don''t mind it." Amelie said before she nodded in response to Freya''s question. Support-type Professions were not something that was unexpected, but these professions were kind of rare and held great value in raiding either Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Tower, that''s why they were highly sought by Guilds. Though Support-type Profession didn''t mean that the yer would only cast buffs because there were yers in the same category that had great fighting capabilities. "...T-that''s actually great!" Freya didn''t ask her about the specific profession since it''s personal information. "Haha... Is that so... by the way, Freya, did you know what kind of Clubs did we join in? They exined what the Club was in general, but we didn''t get the information about the specific activities we would participate in sooner." ''Huh...? What''s with her dejected tone? Is it because her profession isn''t Rare?'' She thought but refrained to pry further, instead, she recounted what her older brother had told her during weekends about the Clubs they had joined in. "Based on my older brother, Ryokou Club focuses on travel or adventure while the Survival Club is something like extra survival lessons. "Then, the activity with the Ryokou Club only happens twice a year, at the end of the first semester and second semester. It''s weird but that''s the only time we will have a get-together with the other members of the Club unless we came to know them prior to the Club Activity." Freya exined the overview of the Ryokou Club that''s soon to be updated on the Obelisk Website, but somehow his older brother gave her an idea just based on the Japanese word "Ryokou", which means "travel, trip, or journey". "Wooaaahhhh!!!!! T-then what about the other one, the Survival Club?" Amelie''s ruby eyes gleamed in anticipation, but Freya answered her casually. "The other one¡­ Survival Club¡­ you see, it''s about studying the edibility of raw herbs, and monster beast meat, and how to cook them, something like that. Freya recalled how she got mad with her older brother as soon as he told her about the general idea of the Survival Club. - Who the hell wanted to cook a monster beast, that''s just straight-up gross, Oppa! - Well, maybe one day it woulde in handy, you know. In the end, she''s to me as he just followed her older brother, though she wasn''t sure why the other two; Amelie and Amery, joined them. She thought that it might be on a whim. "W-what are you doing?" Freya''s little nostalgia for what happened on weekends was cut off due to Amelie''s action. She asked Amelie whose face was almost touching hers as Amelie leaned her body forward, but her ruby eyes were like glistening stars. ''D-drooling?!'' She shouted inwardly as she saw Amelie, seemingly drooling. "That''s cool Freya! Yay! I''m d Russell chose that Club and I joined on a whim. You see, I love cooking!" To Freya''s surprise, Amelie loved cooking even though she heard the words ''monster beast meat'', the opposite of her older brother who didn''t like to cook, who also ironically chose a Club that had a cooking lesson on it. ... The time passed, then the front door of the A-1 ss opened and a nerdy-looking professor walked in. Every student had dted their eyes, knowing the identity of the professor who walked in. It''s the first time they saw him personally since he''s a very, very busy man. He didn''t manage to greet his student becausest week wasn''t the start of the formal sses. He''s a renowned yer but a widely known researcher and schr in the field of "Monster Origin Research (MOR-000)", being conducted in the Obelisk Organization department called the "Obelisk Institute of the Origin" ¨C Emmanuel Lyncoster The famous schr who was contracted with the Constetion, ''One Who Oversees the Past, and an author of the famous literary work called, ''Encyclopedia of Emergence'' ¡ª a book that Russell had. Everyone knew him because the Obelisk Institute of the Origin was thergest Research Center known to the human domain, and he was a core person of such an institution. "Good morning ss A-1, everyone, I''m Emmanuel Lyncoster¡­" He introduced himself in front of everyone as if the students didn''t know him from the start; his voice exuded a gentle aura, full of humbleness. After his introduction, he added some words worth to be taken note of. "I am not here to belittle the other professors who handle other sections, but as you may already know, every one of you as A-1 students is greatly privilegedpared to other students. "That''s also the reason why all the professors that are assigned in this ss would be the ''yers'' specializing in a different field who are not only known inside the academy but throughout the entirety of the human domain." Freya listened carefully as she contemte his words. ''Professor Emmanuel is right... the privileged we have is evident just by living in the Rigel Building.'' Each personal dormitory room for A-1 students contained a Personal Training Room with a fully provided set of training equipment; a daily supply of Low-Grade Stamina Potions that supported one''s growth, and there''s also the Personal Virtual Capsule for more fluid training due to a slight Time Difference. ''Sigh... the training room in the Andromeda Building is needed to be scheduled.'' ording to the School Guidebook, there were about 10 training rooms for public use in the Andromeda Building; these training rooms needed to be scheduled to be used for only a limited amount of time of two hours a day per student. ''I''m worried about Oppa''s growth...'' Her thoughts were cut off by her own thoughts as she recalled something; the voice of Professor Emmanuel who was speaking in front was passing through her right ear and leaving on the left ear as though she entered her little reverie. ''Come to think of it... I didn''t manage to ask Oppa about that time. ''That was not a body of an F rank yer... His body seemed sturdier than usual.'' Russell hadn''t told her anything yet, but she knew that his strength suddenly blossomed. ... "Alright ss, as this is our first meeting, I''ll do a roll call. "Please be reminded that I''ll call you along with your ss Rank, so pay attention. "This list was just updated for the faculty staff, andter will be reflected in your respective Obelisk Personal ounts." Freya was snapped out of her thoughts because every here didn''t know their ss Rank. "Freyaaaaaaaa! I''m nervous, whoo..." Amelie called out to her, and shake her whole body while wearing an expression like she was going to cry out of nervousness; not just her, since the atmosphere inside the ssroom became tense. Chapter 28 First Formal Classes [2] As the tense atmosphere seemed to be a literal bone-chilling feeling, Freya listened attentively as Professor Emmanuel Lyncoster started the roll call. ... "Rank 40, Dexter Orbelle" "Rank 39, Daven Belrose" "Rank 38, Bailey rkson" ... "Rank 31, Amelie Rose Merveil" ... "Rank 27, Amery Blight" ... "Rank 26, Freya Moon" Freya raised her right hand in response to the Professor''s call. ... ... ... "Rank 6, Leon von Obreyon" ... "Rank 5, Han Jiho" ... "Rank 4, Rumia Flora" ... "Rank 3, Anya Amasawa" ... "Rank 2, Elizabeth von Etherion" ... "Rank 1, Samantha Hall" "Present, Sir." Said the woman seated in the middle of the ssroom, causing most of the eyes tond on her. After the attendance, each student got to know their ranks, and confusion among some students started to circte through some murmurs. "Han Jiho? Who''s that?" "I don''t know, but he surpassed Leon?" "Is that for real?" Along with the spreading confusion, someone raised a hand and politely asked Professor Emmanuel. "Sir, I have a question." "Yes, speak." He said as he put something down on the teacher''s table. "What are the criteria used to determine our ss Ranks?" "Hmm... it''s normal that you will be curious, but I am not allowed to divulge any information regarding that criteria, but one piece of advice I can give you all ¡ª do your best on everything." Said Professor Emmanuel as he slightly pushed up the gold-rimmed eyesses he was wearing. ... The ss went on, and before he went out of the ssroom, Professor Emmanuel Lyncoster suddenly got curious about the individual named ''Han Jiho'', who surpassed ''Leon von Obreyon'', son of one of the TOP 5 Guilds: Phantasmal Guild. ''I don''t want to peek at other people''s Status Windows without a cause.'' He muttered inwardly, increasingly bing curious of the said individual. ... [You have failed to inspect the ''target''] [The rank of the Status Appraisal Skill is not high enough to ess the ''target''s'' information.] Not so bewildered, but quite amused, Professor Emmanuel Lyncoster who used a Status Appraisal Skill due to his seemed undying curiosity didn''t manage to take a peek at Han Jiho''s personal information. ''It would be different if I use the Authority given to me, but that would be a waste.'' He muttered within himself. His Authority: "Backward irvoyance", contrary to what most people spected it to be, it could prate other people''s Status Windows regardless of ''Mental Barrier'' or any ''mental protection'' skill, but its true power lies in peeking at the "target person''s past", though better to optimally used on critical situations or investigations. After some time, he left the A-1 ss, letting every student release a sigh of relief. ... "Wow! Although he''s gentle, his aura seems to have hidden fierceness on it! I''m excited about the other professors, since they''re famous, too you know. They must be super busy that it was only Ms. Ayleen and Sir Eric who met usst week." Amelie Rose Merveil heaved a sigh of relief as the back of Professor Emmanuel disappeared from every student''s sight. "It''s great. We''ll learn many things from them, though we basically have the same subjects and schedules as the other sections, the difference in our professors'' experiences will make a great difference in learning." Freya Moon ¡ª who was somewhat surprised to see personally a renowned yer ¡ª voiced her opinion, but was soonter distracted by the gaze of one of the girls that were sitting in front of the ss, Amery Blight. ''What is she thinking about now...? If her gaze could devour me, I''d probably be dead already! Perhaps...? Tsk. This girl... she''s probably thinking about the ss Rank that was earlier announced?!'' Freya responded to her gaze, but then she saw three men who started to bully Amery since the start of the ssst week due to her aloof personality, prompting Amery to look away from her, and focus her attention on the approaching men. ¡­ "Hey! Why are you on Rank 27?" Said the man with a bulky build, short ck hair, and ck eyes; an expression of irritation could be seen on his face. "Oi, oi! Easy now, Dexter, she must have got some favors from someone, you know." Interjected by the man with a fitted build, short brown hair, and brown eyes; smiling like an idiot while putting one of his arms over Dexter''s shoulders. "Hey, Daven, what favors are you spouting just now? Ah! That kind of favor right?" As if understanding what the man with a simple body build, short ck hair and brown eyes had said, the three of themughed boisterously at the same time. "Hahahaha! Hahahahaha!" "Hahahahahahaha! That''s crazy shit man!" As they wereughing as if they were on drugs, a voice with a calm but piercing tone cut off their moment of ecstasy. "What''s funny about what you just said, you fucker?!" Freya Moon ¡ª who listened from her seat about what the man, ss Rank 38: Bailey rkson had said ¡ª asked him a question, prompting the trio to stop their moment and shot res at Freya. "What!? Who the fuck are you!?" Bailey rkson retorted, with a visibly angry expression on his face as if his moment was interrupted by nobody. "This girl is a chick, too! She must have gotten favors from someone, too, you think?" ss Rank 39: Daven Belrose, who spout the ''favors from someone'' to Amery said in a ridiculing tone, prompting the trio tough again as if they''re looking at an extra. "Is that what the weaklings good at? Laughing at who''s stronger than them who don''t even consider responding to their trivial ridicule. Right, Amery?" With Freya''s words, the trio''s expression hardened, but lost the words to retort with what she said, then before it esctes, the door of the ssroom opened, prompting everyone to look at the professor who came in, and every student suddenly organized themselves. "Good morning everyone, I''m sure we already knew each other fromst week¡­ let''s start the ss." ... Hours had passed, and its lunchtime already, and the first formal ss in Dungeon Geographical System (DGS) ended. "Sigh¡­ that''s tiring, I can''t even get what Sir Eric had taught us." Amelie Rose grumbled about the lesson that just ended. ''Eric Romer.'' A famous explorer who greatly contributed to discovering other Tower Dungeons that appeared apart from the conspicuous gigantic ones from the time of Emergence. The A-1 ss met himst week to inform everyone of the subject''s overview as well as introductions. "Hey, Freya, your rival''s approaching." Freya''s thoughts were cut off by Amelie''s voice, prompting her to look in the direction she was pointing at as they were preparing to leave for the lunch break, and then Freya saw Amery approaching them. "Rival, you say? She''s your bestfriend right?" Freya sarcastically asked Amelie, which caused her to pout. "What do you need?" Freya asked. "Nothing, lunch¡­ can I join?" Amery asked embarrassingly. "Wow! Our so-cold Amery can say such a thing? The world must be ending!" Amelie ¡ª who''s in high spirits all the time ¡ª interjected with a remark as her ruby eyes gleamed, causing Amery to shoot her a cold re, prompting her to shut her mouth off; Freya smiled as she saw this, and nodded to her before they exited their ssroom. "Let''s go." ... Arriving at the Obelisk Cafeteria One with the duo, and her older brother, they ordered the usual, but the duo Amelie and Amery ordered different meal sets. "Oppa, how''s your ss?" Freya started the conversation as they started to slowly gobble up their meals. "Just a normal, boring one." Russell replied as various thoughts surfaced in his mind. ''I couldn''t even understand a thing, f*cking hell!'' When he wrote the novel he didn''t manage to publish, he didn''t thoroughly exin the internal details of some things like Dungeon Geography, he just glossed over and wrote something like, ''Forested Dungeon''; but the reason why it''s forested was unknown to him in reality, and he could just assume that the monsters on such setting were nature-rted, but as the Dungeon Geography was concerned, the answer why it''s forested probably didn''t cause by monsters themselves. He knew of the general ideas, and knowledge as a writer, but the thorough orplicated exnations were out of his mental capacity. ''I''m like a pro gamer who didn''t read the Terms and Conditions.'' Hempooned inwardly, but a certain voice had cut his thoughts. "I didn''t need it." Amery Blight, out of nowhere voiced to Freya her thoughts. "What do you mean?" Freya asked, with a confused tone in her voice. "I didn''t need your help earlier." As Amery replied, they realized what she was talking about aside from Russell who listened attentively. "Why aren''t you fighting back then? Those trio idiots are clearly weaker than you." ''Though Oppa said that ranks were not the primal basis of strength.'' After pondering a little, Amery told a short, but ambiguous answer. "I didn''t need to." "What the hell do you mean, ''didn''t need to''? So you just gotta let those bastards bully you? "Suit yourself then, but that''s NOT the mindset of someone who wants to be stronger." Freya''s words reverberated in Amery''s ears which made her shut up for some reason. ... As the others just continued to finish their delicious meals after the little skirmish of words, Russell asked his younger sister, curious about the situation they were talking about. "What happened?" Surprisingly, or unsurprisingly, Amelie was the one who answered him. "Well, there are three bullies in the ss, and got tangled up with Freya earlier." "Bullies, you say?" He asked in a serious tone which caused Amelie to feel inexplicable chills. "Amelie, stop. "Oppa, it''s nothing, don''t worry about it, but I''ll tell you, okay?" Freya interjected as if to say that there''s nothing to worry about, but clearly in Russell''s eyes that it''s kind of serious because as a reader of some webnovels and writer of one in his previous life, he knew what kind of existence the bullies were. ... After some time of telling the matters to him, Russell''s expression turned into a frown. "Can you repeat what that ''Daven'' guy had said?" He asked, to make sure he didn''t hear it wrong. Knowing her big brother, Freya scratched her right cheek as she recounted what had transpired earlier, especially that part. "So, Amery is getting bullied by three guys, but she''s doing nothing to protect herself, and when you heard that the guy called Daven said something about favors, you interjected, and he ridiculed you, too with the same remark?" "Yes, that''s about it." "I see¡­" Russell was a petty man, but the thing about ''gaining favors of someone'' that clearly has ''that kind of meaning'', was not petty at all especially when it''s said to his younger sister. ''Those fuckers, let''s see what you have to say on the ''Ranking of Exchange'' in the future.'' Chapter 29 Student Council Meeting Second day of the second week since the beginning of sses. After the seemingly long ss hours ended, Freya tidied up her school materials and then bid goodbye to Amelie before she went together with Amery based on their agreement earlier during their lunch break ¡ª that they would go together in the Student Council Office. "Today''s the meeting between the Disciplinary Committee and Student Council. Whoo. I''m quite nervous and excited." The announcement regarding the meeting has been posted publicly on the Obelisk Website; this time, Freya would be able to meet the whole Student Council Body; the Student Council President; the Student Council Vice-President; the Student Council Secretary, and the representatives of the second and third year, along with the representatives of the first year, which were her ssmates. ording to the results of the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam, 8 examiners passed or won including her and Amery. "Hey, what are you thinking about?" Freya asked Amery who seemed to have been lost in her thoughts; though she has a cold demeanor, she was not exactly unapproachable. "I wonder how strong they are¡­" Amery said without the specifics on who she was referring to, causing Freya to frown slightly. ''I know that she couldn''t express her thoughts clearly, but at least speak with more clues. Will you?'' Being left with no choice, the confused Freya asked her. "Who?" "The TOP 5, no TOP 6 in our ss" Amery replied, referring to the famous people in ss; Samantha Hall, Elizabeth von Etherion, Anya Amasawa, Rumia Flora, and Leon von Obreyon, but out of nowhere, the one called Han Jiho just kicked out Leon of the TOP 5 in ss Ranks with the unknown criteria that students had no way of knowing since the Professor, Emmanuel Lyncoster wasn''t even allowed to divulge such information. "I have no idea, but you should know they have abundant resources even though they were still kids. Though I don''t know about the one who reced Leon who was the ''expected'' TOP 5 of almost everyone. Not that I care about such a fuss; ss Ranks or ranks, in general, aren''t the ultimate determining factor of the overall individual''s strength.'' Freya replied with her thoughts as they took their pace along the way to the Student Council Office. ... ¨C Student Council Office After taking their strides for a few minutes, Freya Moon and Amery Blight arrived at the front door of the Student Council Office; this time, the girl who worked in Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam Registration wasn''t sitting beside the door. Upon knocking a few times, they heard someone say "Come in", and without waiting any further, they entered the Student Council Office. The Student Council Office was a very spacious room; there were two separate arrangements of seats; one was from the left side where the students from the Disciplinary Committee were sitting, while the one from the right side was where the students from the Student Council were sitting. There was at least a two-meter desk in the front of the seats; Freya and Amery recognized one person who was sitting. It was the Student Council President, Arthur Wolfson, while Victoria Angelica Rasputin was standing diagonally behind him. Apart from them, three other people were sitting in front of that very same desk. Freya and Amery took a seat from the left side, waiting for the meeting to start. ''They aren''t here yet?'' Freya thought as she noticed that some of the famous people in her ss weren''t there yet, but after some time, everyone heard a knock and then the first-year representatives for the Student Council showed themselves as they entered and helped themselves by taking their seats. Freya silently counted the number of the students inside and determined that there were at least 48 of them including her and Amery. ''It''s more than the number of a regr ss!'' Unsurprisingly, the Student Council Office was spacious enough that it could even amodate more people if necessary. Apart from the above-mentioned arrangement of seats, there were bookshelves, as well as high-qualityputers lined up for multipurpose utilization. ''Who are the others, though?'' She asked in wonder while Amery was silently observing everyone with her usual aloofness. After the waiting was over, everyone tensed themselves ¡ªexcept for the four people in front and the two women standing diagonally behind them ¡ª upon hearing the noble, and gentle voice of the Student Council President. "Good afternoon everyone. Let me introduce myself again, I''m Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President, also I btedly congratte the new representatives of first years, as well as the new disciplinary officers of first years. "As you may not know, there''s a separate head and office for the Disciplinary Committee." After his introduction, Arthur looked to his right side; there, a woman with tinum, mid-length hair, ruby eyes, and wless skin formed a captivating smile as she looked at everyone in the office, then she let out her charming voice that reverberated to everyone''s ears. "Hi! I am Azalea Vermillion, and I''m 19 years old, your third-year senior, and the President of the Disciplinary Committee. "Nice to meet all of you, especially those who are new... and as the Student Council President had said... Congrattions." Azalea said with a genuinely cheerful smile; her voice strangely calmed the mind of those who heard it as though they were lying in a bed, full of thornless roses. Although it wasn''t as extremepared to Ms. Ayleen Mayfield''s voice that felt like it could turn a living person into a living doll. After Azalea spoke, subsequent introductions proceeded as well; from the Vice President to the Secretary of each department. ¨C Student Council Vice President John Vernifelon. ¨C Disciplinary Committee Vice-President Lyra Miha. ¨C Student Council Secretary Victoria Angelica Rasputin. ¨C Disciplinary Committee Secretary Aisha Whispercrest. ... The Student Council Vice President, John Vernifelon was sitting on the left side of Arthur Wolfson, while the Disciplinary Committee Vice President was sitting on the right side of Azalea Vermillion; the two secretaries were on either side, behind them. "Alright! I''m here to say that there will be a Group Chat for the Student Council and the Disciplinary Committee, and how to join it or the link for it will be posted on the Obelisk Websiteter evening, perhaps after dinner. "Don''t worry, it''s only essible to everyone here. "And I''d like to make it clear especially for the new first years; the Disciplinary Committee has more members than the Student Council." Freya scrutinized the number of students on the left side arrangement of seats andpared it to the right side arrangement of seats. There were about 24 representatives for the Disciplinary Committee; 12 for the third year; 8 for the second year, and 4 for the first year. Then, for the Student Council, there were around 18 representatives; 6 for each year level. With the heads of each department included, there would be a total of 27 students for the Disciplinary Committee, while only 21 students for the Student Council. Freya looked to her side and saw Amery with an expressionless face. ''It seems like she doesn''t care about such a thing. This battle maniac probably just gauging everyone''s strength.'' Before Freya could guess why the number of Disciplinary Members was greater than the Student Council Representatives, the Student Council President spoke... "If some of you are wondering why the Student Council has fewer members than the Disciplinary Committee, it''s simply because Disciplinary Committee Officers handle and regte the peace between students using limited physical means, while the Student Council handles the administrative works. "Victoria... you may." After the Student Council President, Arthur signaled Victoria for something, she went to one of the bookshelves and picked up some newly printed booklets, she then ced them on one of the tables before distributing them to each student including to the heads of the Student Council and Disciplinary Committee. Freya read the title of the newly printed booklet. "All about the Student Council and Disciplinary Committee" ... "I will discuss first the matters regarding the Student Council, then Azalea for the matters of Disciplinary Committee." Holding the booklet with her hands, Freya felt ufortable and her focus was being disrupted by the other two first-year students who won the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam, who seems to have their own world because they were eyeing the 6 students on the right side, at the front of seating arrangement for first years of Student Council representatives. They''re obviously the bigshots in the ss apart from Han Jiho, and as if being affected by their prying eyes, Freya shot a nce at the front, where the five bigshots were attentively listening, while she caught Han Jiho staring nkly at the Student Council President as if he had no idea what Arthur Wolfson was talking about. ''What''s with that expression?'' Freya thought but glossed over it as she listened to the words that were being spoken in front. ... After some time of discussion that ended with the words of Disciplinary Committee President, Azalea, the "room for questions" were given, and not long after it was told, a student from the first-year representatives, "Rumia Flora" was the first to ask a question. "Student Council President, could the information regarding the future academic or non-academic events for this semester be shared with others early on, so they can make preparations?" "That''s a good question... Rumia Flora isn''t it?" Student Council President said, scrutinizing Rumia Flora that made her feel ufortable. "To answer your question... It''s a ''NO''. Alright, listen, everyone; one of the advantages of being a Student Council Representative, and Disciplinary Committee Officer is that you would have ess to some information in advance. "Although there''s good intention behind informing the other students about future events, there are a few reasons why you shouldn''t. "One, let us be realistic, outside of the Obelisk Academy, no matter how rushed or pressuring the situation is, a ''yer'' must remainposed if he or she is thrown into an unexpected predicament; in the same way, the students of the Obelisk Academy must be prepared for any possible events unannounced. "Two, your advantages will dwindle... I''m not saying that you should be selfish by keeping the future information to yourself, rather, it''s up to your judgment. "Andstly, telling other students mighte to bite you." Confusion invaded Rumia Flora''s expression as she heard thest reason because as a Princess of the country ''Nereia'', she knew that there were people who could twist information, and spread damaging rumors through nder. Rumia pondered the words of the Student Council President. ''There are more than one indications about what he said, but other students might take it negatively if we tell them about the future events in advance; though we have the advantages here, it might taint the authority given to us if we are taken as being unfair by knowing some things first.'' "I understand, thank you. Student Council President." ... Freya frowned upon hearing the words of the Student Council President, while Amery, sitting on her side, remained unconcerned about whatever things Arthur had mumbled. The discussion went on, and as it went, Freya recalled the information that Azalea had informed them before the "room for questions" was given. She flipped the newly printed booklet and took note of the important ones, as well as those advantageous to her. ... 1. As a Disciplinary Committee Officer, you have the authority to bring appropriate judgment to students who broke the Obelisk Rules under your watch. 2. As a Disciplinary Committee Officer, you will be given the ''Protection Mark'' under the Obelisk Academy''s permission. ¨C This mark will be revoked and will undergo three weeks of suspension if the possessor is caught abusing his or her authority as a Disciplinary Committee Officer. Protection Mark ¨C any person who harms in any way the possessor of this "right" will be severely punished under the Obelisk Jurisdiction. ''Those bastards won''t be able to bully Amery anymore.'' Freya thought of the three bullies she quarreled with yesterday. She then continued skimming the booklet. 3. As a Disciplinary Committee Officer, you have the ess to the Disciplinary Committee''s technical resources. 4. As a Disciplinary Committee Officer, you will be given an allowance of 3,000 Obel per week and 5 Mid-Grade Potion of your choice per 2 weeks. This Can be imed on "Obelisk General Resources Building (OGR)". iming Method: - Present your Obelisk I.D. - Wait for Verification - Tell the person in charge about the specific "Potions" you wanted to im. - im the desired "Potions". ... A joyous expression formed on her face as she read again the beneficial parts of being a Disciplinary Committee Officer. ''I could treat Oppa with that allowance! ''And they''re generous enough by letting us choose a Mid-Grade Potion that cost about 30,000 Obel per bottle, regardless of its type. Freya thought as she continues flipping through the pages of the booklet while the "room for questions" for the Student Council was ongoing. ... Important Rules and Responsibilities to Remember: 1. A Disciplinary Officer can use Skills to subjugate a hostile student. 2. A Disciplinary Officer must report to Disciplinary Committee Office every weekend ¨C for attendance and possible inquiries. 3. A Disciplinary Officer must attend the mandatory training every weekend from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. in the Obelisk Public Training Grounds. 4. ... ... Then Freya reached the page of the future academic events avable only to them, and her face contorted as she read a certain event that would take ce after the Midterm Exam on the first to the second week of October. ''Ranking of Exchange...'' Chapter 30 Banquet Of Obelisk (1) After the ''room for questions'' between the Student Council Representatives, even not being part of it, Freya Moon silently listened to their conversation while reading the "Booklet" exclusively given to the students that were on Student Council Office, after some time, the ''room for questions'' between the Student Council Representatives came to finish, and Freya engraved on her mind the important questions, and answers she gathered. 1. Which has higher authority between the Student Council, and the Disciplinary Committee? Answer: Both has equal authority, just different responsibilities. 2. Who has the final say regarding the decision to-be made when ites to conflict between two or more students? Answer: Both the Student Council President, and Disciplinary Committee President, and if either one is absent due to various reason, Vice-President of the Department will take the decision of ruling after considerations. Freya only took note of the difference on authority between the two Departments, and mostly important questions had already been asked, that there''s no room for Disciplinary Committee to conduct a ''room for questions'' or Q&A. "Alright, I hope you remember everything, and took note of important factors discussed, and please open your ''Booklet'' on the future academic events section and check the ''Banquet of Obelisk'''' that will be held next week. I know that everyone here came on their respective dormitories almost a month earlier after passing the entrance examination, but not everyone has made a friend of sorts, that''s why the Obelisk Academy nned on conducting a banquet for first years. This will be announced on Friday, and based on the date on the Booklet, will be held next Tuesday. Any questions?" Azalea Vermillion said with a smile on her face that could attract men just by looking at it. A student from first year representative, Rumia Flora, raised her hand and asked, "Who will be the organizers of the banquet?" Azalea smiled, and replied, "That will be us your seniors, but only limited to the representatives of the Student Council and Disciplinary Committee, and the professors of first years." "Th-that''s too many¡­" As Rumia said, every section of first year from A-1 to A-12 has 40 students each which totalled of 480 students, though the number was quite numerous, it''s not unmanageable. Azelea, seeing her reaction cleared something out to every student listening. "Of course, everyone is going to be amodated, remember where you are right now, and it''s free of costs. By the way, it will be held on ''Obelisk Center Hall''." "What? Obelisk Center Hall? Where''s that?" One of the first year student disciplinary member asked reflexively, other students also wondered about the ce because it''s their first time they heard such a ce, even some seniors formed a confused expression, and shot a look of wonder about Azalea''s words. "Heh¡­ my bad, it''s a surprise, so just wait for the announcements on Friday. That would be all!" Azalea, finding the student''s reaction amusing replied mischievously, and closed the meeting with the permission of Arthur Wolfson. Freya Moon frowned at the sight as if she didn''t understand of the announcement dy. Murmurs reverberated across the Student Council Office especially on first years as they prepared to leave. Freya, tidying up her belongings, caught a glimpse of the first year student council representatives walked past her, and Amery. She felt an indescribable aura that sent chills to her bone. ''What was that?'' ... Early evening as the sses were over, in a room with a shabby interior, as if not caring to those who could see it, Russell Moon, slumped down on his bed thought about the sses that went today. ''I''m stupid as fuck.'' He realized his stupidity regarding to this world''s science, just like he thought of being a pro-gamer but didn''t read the game''s ''Terms and Conditions" As a previous author who didn''t manage to publish his novel thanks to a speed running supercar, he knew of the events that would unfold in the future. ''That''s like being a pro-gamer¡­'' he thought to himself, but the thorough details of such events were vague to him like the determining factors, and outside interference, ''that didn''t review the Terms and Conditions''. "When I thought about it, I know the details, but not thoroughly¡­ and when ites to ''Untouched Elements'' like on the Hidden Dungeon I explored¡­ Hahaha, What a mess! But it''s good¡­ at least for now." His words scattered in his dorm room. Russell Moon thought that his reincarnation in this world was not bad at all as he didn''t have important connections in his previous life; no parents, a shut in trader with hisputers as his friends. ''Though the reasons were unknown about my reincarnation, the Goddess of Night probably know, but it doesn''t matter.'' He has a family in this world; a father, mother and a younger sister, theplete opposite of his previous life. Russell pped his cheeks with both of his hands to wake up from his state of mind. ''That''s why it''s hard to be alone for long, negative thoughts suddenly appear like they''re wee.'' Having a diagnosed social anxiety on his previous life, it felt like thinking about random things became a habit of his as a loner. Aftering to his senses, Russell thought of the future academic events and th0ught of the first to-be held academic event this year. ''Banquet of Obelisk¡­ I''m not sure on the exact date, but it''s within this month for sure.'' When he thought about the details he wrote about the ''Banquet of Obelisk'', he frowned. ''Right, aside from knowing each other, it''s obvious for scouting potential ''yers'' among the first years, of course no one would dare to recruit those under the TOP 5 Guild, they''d be stupid as hell¡­ Hahahahahaha! Shit, that would happen soon¡­'' Heughed within his mind as he thought of the event that would take ce on the ''Banquet of Obelisk'' ... ~Knock knock~ As his thoughts kept flooding in, he heard long knocks on his door, and got up from his bed to open it. "Come in." After he opened the door, he saw his younger sister Freya Moon, and invited her inside the room. Freya sat on the couch ced near the bed of his older brother. "How was it?" Russell asked, probably pertaining about the Student Council and Disciplinary Meeting he''s told beforehand. "It was great, aside from knowing each other, we received perks from being a member of the Disciplinary Committee or Student Council." Russell who already knows of the perks, interestingly listened to her younger sister and asked. "Coffee or tea, or water? By the way, what perks did you get?" "Just water, we''re going to have dinner soon." After she got a ss of water from her older brother, and drank it, she told the perks she got as being a Disciplinary Member. "We got something called ''Protection Mark'', though we''re not marked physically, it''s more like we received certain rights, and it will be posted on the Obelisk Website soon¡­" As she recounted everything that''s happened, she asked her older brother if he had any idea about the "Obelisk Center Hall." "I don''t know where that is, but can''t you just make a guess based on its name?" Of course Russell knew where that ce is, but pretended not to know and rather gave a clue to Freya based on the name of the venue, and after some time, being an intelligent girl, she understood the meaning behind her younger brother''s word as her eyes widen in anticipation. "You don''t say!? Are you for real?" Freya blurted out her thoughts as if she couldn''t believe that she had just realized. ''Even I wouldn''t thought about it if I didn''t know it firsthand'', he thought. "Hey, easy, I don''t know okay, just wait for the announcement, on Friday right?" After the siblings chattering for quite a period of time as the Sun gone down, and the night sky permeated their vision, Freya Moon called her older brother with a serious tone. "Oppa¡­" "On your birthday. Just wait on your birthday." Russell Moon understood her younger sister''s thoughts, she''s probably going to pry about the increased on his overall strength, but he also understood that right now wasn''t the right time for it. "Okay¡­! Let''s grab a dinner!" Freya Moon smiled at her older brother, not because he would tell her on her birthday few months from now, but because he understood her even though she didn''t get to say everything on her mind. ... Along the way to the usual cafeteria, Russell Moon and Freya Moon chatted as they saw Amelie Rose Merveil, and Amery Blight together as if lost. Freya called them out, and a happy face formed on Amelie''s expression while the aloofness on Amery remained as if it''s the most natural thing in the world. "Hey! Freya, hmm. Russell right? We''re looking for you guys, we should eat together!" She happily said while Amery followed suit. Russell wondered about the student Amery Blight, with her out of ce aloofness, he also remembered the ''Goddess of Night'' to look out for her even he didn''t know the reason. ¡­ On the ''usual'' Cafeteria "By the way, Oppa, what''s your elective ss tomorrow?" Russell Moon stopped eating his meal as he formed an embarrassed expression, but epted that it couldn''t be hide anymore. ''I got a few days off of embarrassment'' he thought before telling her younger sister his second picked elective. "That¡­ G-O-S-T." "G-O-S-T?" Surprisingly, neither Freya nor Amelie muttered it in low voice, but the aloof Amery. "Ohhhhhhh! You can talk!" Amelie Rose sarcastically made a remark. "General Overall System Theories" Freya who saw itst time on the lists of electives said in a manner as if reading something, and an ''Eh!?" reaction was drawn on the face of Amelie Rose. Amelie whispered that the other three of them could hear¡­ "Isn''t that¡­" Before she could finished her sentence, Russell interjected on her behalf. "Yes, for stupid people." "Oppa!!" Freya who didn''t like her older brother ridiculing himself, shout at him in a way that could only be heard by them. "It''s okay, it''s kind of¡­ reality you know? Hahaha" ''Fucking hell. I wanna dug myself in the ground.'' Russell thought to himself as he felt the embarrassment for taking such elective. ''It''s basically the basic terms and conditions that he hadn''t review'' Chapter 31 First Formal Classes (3) After the four-people squad''s dinner, Russell Moon parted ways with them as he was the only one with the different Student Dormitory ¨C Andromeda unlike the other three; Freya Moon, Amelie Rose Merveil, and Amery Blight who were on Student Dormitory ¨C Rigel. After quite some time, in a quiet dorm, sitting on the couch beside his bed, he thought of the uing event ''Banquet of Obelisk'' where the first year students would be given a chance to form peers especially one that would be beneficial for their own futures. ''An event full of hypocrisy'' he thought. Though as an aspiring author before his reincarnation, Russell cannot feel whether he should me himself or not for the existence of some bastards that were aligned on his novel in this world. As far as he remembered, it would be managed by the Student Council, Disciplinary Committee, and the first year professors of each section numbering at least sixty people excluding the assigned professors for elective sses. Alone in his room, Russell took a nce on the window ced on the wall beside his bed, seeing the Moon which was emanating a bluish light, affected by consolidation of Mana on the ''world''. There were other moons that could only be seen on the other part of the world which size became seven times its original diameter. Lost in thought, while looking on the Moon that nketed the sky, Russell suddenly thought of tomorrow''s elective ss as he formed a self-deprecatingugh. ''General Overall System Theories'' As he knew full well the ''main character'' he wrote on his novel, he knew that Han Jiho would also take the elective ss he''s taking. ''Or should I say, someone rmended it to him?'' The ''General Overall System Theories'' discussed the basics of basics of everything necessary since the Emergence, it was an elective ss that was full of ''what''s, why''s and when''s, thoroughly aiming of the general knowledge since the changed of the world, but without the how''s. What is the ''System?'' Who are the first-known Constetions? When does a Tower open its doors to yers? Why did the ''Emergence'' happened? Han Jiho barely knew such things especially basic human etiquette as he lived on a ''mountain'' his whole life, on a vige secluded on the modern technology, but destroyed during the ''Emergence''. ''I guess I''ll see him tomorrow on ss.'' Russell thought to himself. ... Tuesday Morning ''Emergence History and Widely Known Constetion ss'' "Even today, there are knowledge still unknown to us, especially the exact number of other races that scattered and living throughout the world since the Emergence, and we do not know the other races intent nor know if we are really ready for excessive contact with them, and so far, the races that us, humanity have in contact with are ''Dwarves'', and ''Elves.'' Russell Moon, sitting on the far side of the ssroom listened to the professor in front of the ss, discussing the Emergence, and the races that so far made contact with human race. ''Professor Rey Smith'' He didn''t know someone like him on his novel, but as he checked on his ''Status Window'' at least he''s like a man whose loyalty was on humanity, and no hidden nature. ''He''s your typical super loyal soldier type of person'', aligned with the bulky build of his body that didn''t match the subject he''s teaching the students. Russell thought, as he listened to the interesting lesson being taught by the man with a conviction. "The existence of ''Towers'' are stillplete mystery to this day, and humanity just conformed to the System''s functionality. The number of Towers known to us are not fixed because as we know, the world became bigger, and the Satellites of the old world were destroyed during the ''Emergence''. There are ssifications of Towers to this day, which are called: Dungeon Towers that consists of five (5) floors, Higher Dungeon Towers that consists of ten (10) floors, Peak Dungeon Towers that consists of (15) floors, and the so-called Close Mystery Towers that no one knows about until this day. Now, what do you call the Dungeons that formed outside of a Tower?" A girl whom Russell Moon considered as ''Untouched Element'' raised her hand as soon as the question was thrown. "Yes, Mira." Professor Rey called Mira, Leon von Obreyon''s younger sister. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 "Sir, they''re called Strayed Dungeons!" Mira answered delightedly. "That''s right, the Dungeons that were not built as a Tower and have a maximum of two floors are called Strayed Dungeons." Russell listened to their exchange and found it interesting even though he knew what they''re discussing as he felt like bing a High School student again. As he remembered, any kind of Dungeon Towers, from lowest ssification to peak, had different challenges on them. For example, a Dungeon Tower with (5) floors could have Goblin-type Monsters, and on its first floor, consists only of unintelligent goblins, then on its second floor, consists of both unintelligent goblins, and goblins with coordination; while from third to fourth floors were goblins with different ranks like goblin warrior, goblin magician, goblin archer, etc. The floors three and four were the beginning of utilizing optimal strategies of the raid team leader as the monsters had a bit of intelligence, and good coordination while on thest floor of the Dungeon Tower, the Goblin Chief would appear, apletely intelligent one, with its aides such Goblin Knights and Goblin Reapers. Russell was snapped out of his thoughts as he heard Professor Rey continued with his lesson, and this time it''s about the ''Clearing Duration'' of raiding a tower based on the previous records set by the ''yers''. "These were the average ''clearing duration'' of Towers from Dungeon to Peak ssification." He shed a holographic screen through the opaque board on the front using a tablet he''s holding, and there, information regarding the average clearing duration were shown. Average ''Clearing Duration'' of Towers Dungeon Towers: 5 weeks Higher Dungeon Towers: 16 weeks Peak Dungeon Towers: 32 weeks The students'' different reactions were evident on their own faces as they looked to the informationid out before them, except for Russell as he knew the difficulty of Higher and Peak Dungeon Towers, though the rewards were extravagant, one wrong decision was tantamount to ''death.'' Professor Rey Smith spoke as chattering between some students continued on. "As you can see, the ''Clearing Duration'' were long, but don''t worry, the yers inside can teleport outside of the Tower to resupply, and rest with the given time every 4 weeks, considering the Towers were ssified as Higher and Peak because the Dungeon Tower, with the average clearing time of 5 weeks, yers wouldn''t have the chance to teleport out as per the System''s rules." Russell smiled inside as he thought of one of the ''main character'' he wrote aside from Han Jiho. ''That rule wouldn''t apply to that person!'' hempooned. ... Freya Moon, who had the same schedule as everyone else regardless of section, started to pack her things up for lunch break. "Hey, youing?" Freye asked Amelie Rose "That¡­" The hesitant Amelie Rose couldn''t instantly decide, and as if Freya knew what she''s thinking about, she said, "Don''t worry about it! It is okay, Oppa wouldn''t mind that." Freya was referringst night dinner about Oppa who took the elective General Overall System Theories, and Amelie who abruptly said that it''s for stupid people. Apparently, Amelie felt guilty with the situation. "Come on! Also tell Amery toe with us." "Alright, but¡­ I don''t think it''s necessary, look behind you." The confused Freya who was almost done tidying her belongings, while her back facing the front of the ssroom, reflexively looked behind, and saw Amery standing near them with the still aloof expression, but with approachable atmosphere. "Ah? Okay let''s go." The momentarily dazed Freya urged both Amelie Rose and Amery to OC1 (Obelisk Cafeteria One) where they usually took their lunch and dinner with her older brother. ... Obelisk Cafeteria One "Oppa, what do you think about the Close Mystery Towers?" Out of nowhere, as they''re eating their meals, Freya asked Russell a question, though he knew what they were, it''s not something he could just talk about casually. "Well, I don''t know? Maybe a blessing or a curse in disguise?" He replied, causing the interest of Amelie Rose, and Amery Blight to spike up, and looked at him with curious eyes. ''Hey don''t look at me like that!'' Russell silentlympooned. "What do you mean a blessing or a curse?" His younger sister asked, also emitting a ''curious'' kind of aura on her tone. "You know, Dungeon Towers are blessing due to various rewards if sessfully cleared, but at the same time curse if the raid failed, and failure inside the Tower means ''death'', I think that would be the same with Close Mystery Towers." Russell shared his idea that would be the truth for now¡­ not in a few years when Close Mystery Towers open one by one. Though the ''Tower of Growth'' that will open in few months time were also considered one, it''s a stepping stone for humanity, at least for those who were initially hopeless as ''yers'' due to various reasons such asck of connections and resources. He remembered the ''True Key of Chaos'' he got with one of its function as opening a ''certain tower''. It''s also one of the ''Untouched Elements'' he encountered as he had no idea what tower would the key was referring to. "Sounds about right! Also we wouldn''t know unless it one opened right?" Amelie Rose said as she chew on her meal, while Amery looked at Russell with wonder in her eyes. ''What are you looking at!?'' Russell screamed in his mind, getting embarrassed with her stare. ... With a few minutes of rest, Russell separated from the trio and went back to his respective ssroom, passing the time, waiting for the elective ss General Overall System Theories while a girl with friendly energy along with other of his ssmates approached him. "Hello, I''m Mira. You see, we saw you''re mostly alone, so maybe you could use apany?" She''s really a friendly one. Russell thought, as she''s apanied by three others, one boy with brown hair, ck eyes, with normal build, and two girls, one with ck hair, brown eyes, and fit stature, and the other with blonde hair, blue eyes, and fit stature respectively. "Hey Mira, let him be! Maybe you''re disturbing him!" Said the girl with ck hair, and brown eyes. ''You''re right! Thank you!'' Russellmpooned within his mind. "Is that so, alright, uhm¡­?" Mira as if wanting to ask something paused for a moment as she couldn''t mustered up the courage to ask. "Russell¡­ Russell Moon." Understanding her, Russell replied out of courtesy. "Okay, Russell¡­ Russell Moon, join us if you needpany! Let''s go Lyn!" With the embarrassment on her tone, she paced quickly away with the others. ''That''s weird.'' Russell thought. With his belongings, he reached the ssroom assigned for the General Overall System Theories, and saw the ''main character'' already sitting on one of the chairs. ''Han Jiho¡­'' he muttered to himself. Chapter 32 Han Jiho Eleven years ago, Monster Stampede Incident "Mom! Dad!" The voice of a man who matured on his early age reverberated throughout the forest where a secluded vige which estranged from modern society called "Sanctus Sris" were located. The man, holding the hands of his dead parents after the massive monster stampede hit the vige. Bodies after bodies, under the rubble of death scattered within the Sanctus Sris vige. Whether it was considered fortunate or unfortunate that the man was one of the few survivors in his vige, he was the only one who could tell. Having been trained various life skills on his early age, Han Jiho excelled in living alone within the forest far from the influence of other humans. Be it fate or not, a traveller passed by the Sanctus Vige and managed to save the remaining vigers; those who struggled to the death, constantly fending off the different kind of monsters. ... Two years of living on the remains of Sanctus Sris vige, procuring whatever left for renovation, and burying the bodies of the dead for the past year, Han Jiho and the other survivor of the viges became grateful with the help of the traveller who stayed with them. "I haven''t been able to ask you this before because of the vige renovation and burying the dead, but how did you manage to find this vige?" A seemingly mentally matured Han Jiho asked. "I was on a mission, to detect the abnormality of the ''Strayed Dungeon'' in a nearby city adjacent to this vige." The man answered back while both person were sitting on a wood, looking on the bonfire raging in front of them. "Strayed Dungeon? What''s that?" A clueless Han Jiho asked, and surprisingly, the traveller didn''t find it surprising, and answered his question delivered with innocence. "It''s where the monsters came from, because if the stampede of monsters were not prevented, it''ll move to the next city, luckily, I managed to get here on time that day. You''re six years old right? That''s why you don''t have the System yet." "Ohhhh! I heard about them from Mom and Dad before. They also shared stories with me, the start of Emergence, and their life on the modern society before they came to this vige, and when I wasn''t born yet." The traveller who was listening to Han Jiho seemed to have lost in thought, forming an expression of nostalgia while looking to the innocent-looking yet mentally matured Han Jiho. "Alexander... that''s my name." said the traveller. ... Eleven yearster, Obelisk City "I hope you remember everything I taught you." Alexander said to Han Jiho, as the two sitting facing each other inside the ostentatiously-looking office where a namete was ced on the table: Alexander Akalchet. Alexander, throughout the years, came back and forth from the Obelisk City to the Sanctus Sris when he had the time, teaching Han Jiho swordsmanship, basic human etiquette, and psychology. He also shared stories regarding the modern world, where the years of past pre-emergence were considered as ''old world'', and now were the years called ''Star Era''. "I will, don''t worry Chancellor Alexander." ... At present, Elective ss: General Overall System Theories "Good afternoon ss, I will be your instructor for this elective during this semester. My name''s Scarlet Netherdawn. I''m quite surprise that you are more than 20 here." Said Scarlet while looking throughout the ssroom, scrutinizing every faces of the student. Russell Moon, who''s also part of this ss with Han Jiho, knew who the professor in front of him was. ''I really shouldn''t have put much charm stat to them.'' Russellmpooned in his mind. With red long hair that reached her waist, crimson eyes, with a perfect stature, Scarlet Netherdawn took a nce at Han Jiho, and stopped her gaze for at least two seconds. If one didn''t know enough, they''d thought that nothing was amiss, but knowing the ''Story'', Russell knew those kind of stare. "Alright, based on the curriculum guide given by the Obelisk High Education, the following lessons will be discussed, please see the holographic screen." A holographic screen, after pressing some button on the tablet, appeared on everyone''s eyes. "General Overall System Theories" - Tackles the ''Foundation'' of the ''Emergence'', giving priority with the questions of what''s, who''s, and when''s. First lesson¡­ yer''s Data Second lesson¡­ What is ''Mana''? Third lesson¡­ Etc. "As you can see, our first lesson, would be the ''yer''s Data'' which pertains to the overall yer''s general information, what are they referring to, and so on¡­ for example ''Titles''. Titles can be acquired by meeting various conditions, such as themon title among ''yers'' which is ''Goblin yer'' which can be achieved my killing 500 Goblins, while ''Orc yer'' can be acquired by killing 500 Orcs, and by acquiring both titles, the ''yer'' will be notified of the System about ''Title Harmony'' which grants the ''yer'' a new title based on the previously acquired title, and as an example of that, the harmony title of Goblin yer and Orc yer is called ''yer of the Green''. Harmony title conditions are unknown even today as the System is the one that is deciding it, whether there are lists of Harmony Titles within the System¡­ we don''t know yet." The students listened attentively to the interesting lesson provided by Ms. Scarlet, and Russell Moon, who was listening kept ridiculing himself within his mind because¡­ ? ''I don''t know how the ''Harmony of Title'' works too!'' Russell knew the conditions to acquired extra title due to Harmony of Title phenomenon, what he didn''t know was the detail on how it triggers the System to give extra titles based on previously acquired titles. He remembered the titles he got by meeting the Goddess of Night, and witnessing the Materialization of a God, though he should be dead if not for the barrier that blocks the Goddess'' chaos aura that time, and the title about being ''Holder of a True Key of Chaos, that resulted in the Harmony of Title that gave him the new title of ''Resident of Chaos'', when he thought about it¡­ - Witnessing the Materialization of a God - Meeting the Goddess of Night herself - Acquiring a ''True Key of Chaos.'' By considering the conditions of his previously achieved titles, he didn''t know the System came up with being a ''Resident of Chaos'' but based on the description of the title he acquired, the Goddess of Night considered him as a resident of Chaos, though he didn''t know why, maybe it''s the influence of the Goddess of Night to the System, he wondered. "Remember¡­ the stat bonuses of title are not the most important, but its other effects. Please refer to this example titles¡­" Russell Moon''s thoughts were cut off by Ms. Scarlet words as he paid attention to the holographic screen shown in the front. ''Common Title Names its Effects.'' 1. Goblin yer ¨C acquisition condition; kill 500 Goblins of any kind. Effects: - All Variable Stats increased by 2 - The Goblin kind will start to ''fear'' you, and flee in your presence. 2. Orc yer ¨C acquisition condition; kill 500 Orcs of any kind. Effects: - All Variable Stats increased by 3 - The Orc kind will be cautious of you. Harmony Title: Goblin yer + Orc yer = yer of the Green ''yer of the Green'' ¨C acquisition condition; obtain the Goblin yer and Orc yer title. Effects: - All Variable Stats increased by 3 - The fear and cautiousness of the Goblin and Orc kind respectively will be amplified. - You will be recognized by ''beings'' under the ''True Green Family'', and have favorable impression towards you. ¡­ "Notice the other effects aside from the increased in variable stats... these are the effects that one should take note of¡­ alright, questions?" as Ms. Scarlet discussed about the titles and its benefits, Han Jiho pondered for a moment before asking, "Ma''am, what''s the ''Green Family''?" he asked. "That''s a good question¡­ during the Emergence, as races from other worlds were transported to Earth, aside from Dwarves and Elves that we had contact and somemunication with, it is proven that races such as Ents, Treants, and Fairies etc, residing in ''Forest of Evergreen'' near the borders of the country ''Nereia'' made contact with some ''Adventurers'' that were injured by Strayed Monsters, and one of them happened to have the ''yer of Green'' title and had asked for help with some ''Fairies'', which they received. Does that satisfy your question, Mr. Jiho?" "Yes Ms. Scarlet, thank you." Han Jiho replied. ''What a curious kid.'' Russell Moon thought. He, at least knew about such things, and the title he got from meeting the Goddess, acquiring a True Key, and bing a Chaos Resident, aside from stats, the skill enhancement and amplification were the most important effects he got. ¡­ After the Elective ss, Chancellor Alexander''s Office "How was it?" A man with golden blonde short hair, golden-colored eyes, with a stature that one wouldn''t think that the man was already 60 years old, asked Ms. Scarlet who just finished her ss where Han Jiho was in, as his back was facing her while looking outside the Chancellor''s Office through the window. "That¡­ it''s fine." Ms. Scarlet said as he voice felt like it''s going to crack. "You know very well, we can''t break the ruleid upon us." Chancellor Alexander said, and as if understanding what he said, Ms. Scarlet just nodded her head with a gloomy expression on her face. ¡­ Andromeda Dormitory, Room 393 ''It''s just right that I took this Elective, I learned many things quickly, at the same time, I was proven again on how messed up my novel was'', Russellmpooned. Russell Moon fortunately remembered the details such as the ''True Green Family'' they came from the world called Greneveir, literally forested where the residents were called Grens and ssified from Fairies, Ents, Trents, and Wood Elves. They''re showing favourable impression on people with ''yer of Green'' title because the ''Green'' on the title itself referred to the Goblins and Orcs, that upied some ces on their world, as well as killed many of their kind. The Goblins and Orcs on Greneveir had their own kingdoms and alliance, and were dubbed by the True Green Family as ''Green'', without True to its name, it''s considered by them as the ''False Kind''. ''Ms. Scarlet earlier was about to break her character in front of Han Jiho, though I know what it was about, I felt bad for writing such a thing. The only constion I kept telling myself was I didn''t expect to be reincarnated inside the novel I''ve written,'' he sighed. ''I should go see Freya for dinner.'' ¡­ Chaos Realm, where time does not flow. A figure of a shade that exuded an aura of ''death'', kneeling in front of a ''Goddess'' that was reading an ''unknown book'' while sitting on her throne, asked in a tone with pure reverence. "Goddess of Night, Overseer of Everything, what task shall I be given?" After closing the book she''s reading, the Constetion [Night of Primodial Chaos] or the Goddess of Night spoke in an authoritative manner with full of convictions. "Observe the younger sister of the one where I entrusted the ''Egg''." As if the shade figure understood what the Goddess of Night implied, a reply of obedience sounded, "Your Will is absolute." The shade figure vanished in front of the Goddess of Night, and as the silence took over her castle, she whispered in the air while throwing the book back to an unknown space. "What a pity, it''s unfinished." Chapter 33 Samantha Hall ''Miss., it''s time for your meal.'' ''Miss., should I prepare some potions for your training?'' ''Miss., Mr. Hall said, he won''t being home for at least a month.'' ''Miss., wake up, you''re going to bete.'' A woman with auburn long hair and brown eyes suddenly woke up from her dream as the night sky was filled with bright stars illuminating the world. ''Even in dreams, I am being haunted,'' the woman thought as she sat up on her bed, unable to sleep again. ''What time is it? 4 A.M? I guess it''s not too early, I should exercise on the field.'' She got up from her bed, and wear the attire from the ''yer''s Physical Education'' sses. ¡­ Obelisk Field Russell Moon, who routinely did physical training ever since encountering the Goddess of Night, suddenly stopped his running as she saw a woman with auburn long hair, and brown eyes, with body features seemed so ethereal. ''My 33 year-old mentality is going to break! Look away!'' Russellmpooned. As a person who reincarnated with inside his own unpublished novel, the only thing that kept him from looking to beautiful women within the Obelisk Academy was his mentality. He started to run again, ignoring the woman who just came to the Obelisk Field. ''I guess she hasn''t do her hair yet.'' It''s problematic for a woman with long hair to run without tying her hair, and as an act of ''kindness'', he decided to remind her as he stopped on his tracks. As the distance between them was not far, contrary to the Obelisk Field vastness, he came to the bench when she was seated, preparing before running. "Not tying your hair would be a hassle." Russell said in a monotonous voice. The woman who was tying her running shoes looked at him with an aloof expression, and came back to her business of tying her shoes, and as she started to run, she replied in a cold voice with her back facing him, "I know." ''This¡­ I''m acting in kindness here!'' There woulde a time where interacting with the ''Main Characters'' would be inevitable, so Russell thought of taking an initiative, at least considering the woman''s background. ''Samantha Hall'' he thought as he looked at the woman tying her hair from being a mess to ponytail while running as he remain seated on the that could amodate at least four people. He started to run again to vent his emotions of getting a cold treatment, though he knew the personality of the Samantha; being subjected to it personally still felt like a sting. ''Well, when I thought about it, antagonizing her would be the most stupid thing someone could do, so that''s out of the question, heck, she''s even stronger than Han Jiho! At least ''domain-wise'', but no use thinking about it right now.'' ¡­ "What are you doing?" A frown on Samantha Hall''s face was very evident as the man who is running right now seems like matching her pace intentionally, at least based on her perception. At first, she didn''t think about it, but as they''re running along the way, she felt something was amiss. "What do you mean? I''m running." The man, who''s running beside her with at least estimately 1 meter distance with each other, replied in an innocently sounding tone, prompting Samantha to quicken her pace. ''Of course, I can''t catch up to that!'' Russellmpooned, he tried earlier to match Samantha''s pace topare himself with her, and it looked like the running earlier was like a jog to her. With his amplified vision, he could clearly see her from afar, and with the curiosity filling his heart, he decided to do what he did to Han Jiho¡­ to check her ''Status Window.'' [Activating Skill: Gaze of the Abyss] Name: Samantha Hall Race: Human Title: [yer of Green] [Inheritor of a Stigma - Locked] Health Points: ¡­ Mana Points: ¡­ Stamina Points: ¡­ Age: 16 (Earth Years) Sex: Female Height: 169 cm Rank: C Profession: Swordsman, [Locked] Constetion: [Invalid] Stigma: Breaker of Impossibility [Locked] Russell Moon stopped on his tracks as soon as he saw the information showed in the System regarding Samantha Hall''s Status Window, and his thoughts came to a nk as he couldn''t think of anything because something was different from what he know. ''What in the world did just happen? That title [Inheritor of a Stigma], and the [Invalid]bel on Constetion, it only mean one thing! A restriction to make a contract with any Constetion! Hold on, hold on!'' He quickly run to a nearby bench, different from the one earlier to calm himself down to process the information he just saw. ''I''m familiar with the [Breaker of Impossibility], it would be her Unique Skill in the future, but why did it be a Stigma? What the hell happened to her supposed-to-be Constetion in the future!?'' STIGMA - Given to the ''yers'' that meet certain unknown requirements. - It is the power of an ''Extinguished Star'' or ''Dead Constetion''. - Raising its level to the MAXIMUM will grant the [Inheritor of a Stigma] aplete ownership of the ''Extinguished Star''s'' Authority. Russell Moon remembered the information about a Stigma, it''s the ''pre-mature'' power of a ''Dead Constetion'' during a ''certain war'' that happened in the distant past. Each Constetion, especially those who ''Ascended'' has something called ''Luminous Heart'', where their power and fleeting consciousness was stored, but due to some reason, the Luminous Hearts of some extinguished stars were scattered across the ''Great Universe'', and given to certain beings no matter the race by meeting the unknown criteria, and depending on whose ''Authority'' it was from. ''Did her supposed-to-be Constetion died? That can''t be. Something was amiss. Crap, I should thoroughly check the history of 40 years thoroughly since Emergence. I reincarnated 16 years earlier prior to the Main Story, but I was treated like a kid, though right in a sense, at the same time, wrong. I haven''t had the time to investigate such matters before due to limited resources, and family situation.'' ''It would be better to check the Status Windows of the characters I''ve written about, at least the main ones.'' He couldn''t help but sigh with the situation he''s thrown into, he thought it''s good that he only checked Han Jiho''s Status Window on Student Weing Ceremony as he wouldn''t know what reactions would he made if he checked everyone''s information, and discovered that things were more than 360 degrees in deviation,pletely out of ce. ¡­ ''What happened to him?'' ''He looked gloomy all of a sudden?'' ''That''s not my business though?'' ''Should I fetch him a water?'' ''Why would I do that?'' ''Is he okay?'' ''No, he''s a weirdo.'' Various thoughts flooded within Samantha''s mind as she sat from a bench, not so far away from the man who''s sitting on another bench looking in the air, probably the System notification. Though people approaching her with various purpose weremon as being a daughter of the number one ''yer'' in Human Domain, Artorious Hall, her father. She was used to the gazes of other people, whether in contained admiration or envy, she didn''t care, as her emotion were molded to coldness due to her environment; being alone most of the time, with only her butler, and two maids apanying her, treating her like some noble while her father, as the Head of the Obelisk Organization, were busy most of the time, only getting home twice or thrice a month. Samantha also became grateful for some reason about living in the ''dorm'', as she at least won''t thought of waiting for her father toe to such a ce. Though she wanted her butler and two maids to treat her casually, they were afraid that they''ll get punished if her father was made known of such acts, resulting from them disobeying that simple request from her. - p p ¨C She pped her cheeks gently to snap herself out of her thoughts as she grab a water-filled bottle inside her Dimensional Inventory as she approached the man sitting on the other bench. ''Maybe I just wanted my father for affection, but at least let me do what I want inside this Academy,'' she inwardly said. ¡­ After pondering for a long time, having a psychological war within himself, Russell looked at the water-filled bottle in front of him, holding by the fair skin-colored hand. "Water?" said Samantha Hall, as she offered her hand holding a water-filled bottle. "Thanks." said Russell Moon, as he epted her good gesture. ''I guess breaking the plot wouldn''t be a bad thing, after all.'' he jokingly thought. Chapter 34 Elizabeth Von Etherion ~ Knock knock knock¡­~ "Princess, Princess! Wake up, it''s almost 7 A.M now, you''re going to bete in ss!" The sound of knocking reverberated on one of the dorm room in the Rigel Building where the students from A-1 ss resides; a maid personally assigned to Elizabeth von Etherion, a Princess of the country ''Etheria'' on the Northernmost part of the Orion Continent, persistently calling to the sleeping Princess. "Arghhhh!" Opening her light green eyes that seems like to contain the depth of nature itself, she unconsciously checked the time beside her bed where a small clock were ce on a study desk. 6:45 A.M As Elizabeth saw the time when her ss'' start is 7 A.M, even though the ce where she''s sleeping in is within the Obelisk Academy itself, considering therge area and the room location for her ss, and preparing herself, she would still bete unless¡­ [Activating Skill: Body Purification] [The body of the target been cleanse] [Your body will continually be cleanse automatically for 5 minutes] A green light enveloped her body as the unwanted dirt were cleanse instantly before she even got up from her bed. "Elein, have you prepared a breakfast?" She asked while sitting on the bed in stupor, seemingly want to sleep more. Elein, her maid face palmed with the Princess'' question because there''s no time to think about such meal considering the time. "Princess, I''m sorry, but the food are almost cold right now." She replied with a worried tone as she''s standing in front of the closed door with the room number ''2''. "Don''t worry about it, you can go now. I''ll be out in 10." Elizabeth sighed a relief as she don''t want to trouble her maid. Though she''s a maid, she considers her as a nanny as Elein was there when she''s born, and took care of her until today. "Alright, Princess, good luck in your ss. If you need anythingter, just call me, I''ll be in the lodging!" Even though A-1 students reside on the ''Rigel Building'', one of the difference between the aristocratic, wealthy renowned individuals andmoners was the option to pick their own personal maids and butler to go guide and serve them while they''re in ''Rigel Building''. Considering the status of people like Samantha Hall, Princess Elizabeth, Anya Amasawa, Rumia Flora, and Leon von Obreyon, they have the privilege to choose their own attendants, while people who managed to be an A-11 student due to various reason such as potential talent were assigned their own attendants by the Obelisk Academy. One might think the unfairness of treatment, but the assigned attendants tomoner A-1 students were by no means incapable. Privilege like that were given to the tycoons'' daughters and son with the premise that they will lead the future of humanity after their parents. ¡­ Arriving inside the ssroom, Elizabeth looked around and started greeting some students. "Good morning Rumia!" "Good morning Samantha! The two people received her greetings, and nodded at her. ''Ah! I wanna sleep more,'' she inwardlymented. Contrary to her status as a Princess of the country ''Etheria'', she''s a free-spirited person that one might think she''s not a part of nobility at all. Her parents didn''t force their ideals to their child unlike some aristocrats, developing her free-spirited behavior causing her to be approachable, but she''s not na?ve that everyone who approach her would have a good intention, even though she''s like a bird that had let go of her mother, she''s a rational and powerful woman befitting of a Rank 2 position in the whole first year ss. ¡­ ''Monster and Anatomy Evolution ss'' "Chaos Miasma was felt with every monster whether alive or after its death in every Tower Dungeon Raid, but wild beasts outside the Tower Dungeons also exudes something called ''Chaos Miasma'' based on the System''s messages received by the yers who yed them. Question, does monster evolution achieved by consuming the Chaos Miasma of another monsters?" Professor Emmanuel Lyncoster, the schr and researcher of Monster Origin Research in the Obelisk Institute of the Origin, asked and called the student with blonde hair and light green eyes. "Ms. Elizabeth, what are your thoughts?" he asked. "Sir Lyncoster, based on researches on previous years until today, there''s not much known regarding the ''Chaos Miasma'', but if I''m going to have an opinion regarding such matters, I''d say that ''Chaos Miasma'' is like a ''Blood-Type'' that humans have. Experimentations showed that collecting Chaos Miasma on a specific monster, for example Goblins, using a special tool, then injecting it to another monster showed abnormal reactions, but surprisingly, injecting Goblin''s Chaos Miasma to Orcs seems to produce rtively good results." Elizabeth answered the question with a straight face as if she studied such things for a long period of time, other students who were listening to her exnation gawked at her as if imaginary smoke came out of their heads, even Freya Moon, didn''t understand a single thing about such process or experimentations like that. "I''m impress, Ms. Elizabeth. Everyone, listen. Based on Ms. Elizabeth''s answer, it was proven, until further research that ''Chaos Miasma'' acts like a Blood-Type with different signatures that affects different kind of monsters on various ways. It''s the same way that holy or divine mana cannot possibly co-exists with unholy or evil mana." "Now, if you''re wondering about the difference between ''Chaos Miasma'' and ''Chaos Aura'', it is that Chaos Miasma refers to the ''chaos power'' in the surroundings or environment like air, while Chaos Aura is within the body of a monster. Remember that no human could ever have ''Chaos Aura'' inside his or her own body." The curious Elizabeth raised her hand, taking the opportunity to ask a question back to the professor which is a schr and researcher. "Sir, based on what you said just now that no human ''ever'' have ''Chaos Aura'', does it mean it''s not possible for someone to possess it in the future? How could you im such conjectures? Does it mean there were human experimentations, forcefully injecting chaos inside their bodies thus making the inference of ''no human could ever have'' Chaos Aura?" Rumia Flora, who''s beside Elizabeth elbowed her, and whisper something with a tone of concern. "Hey, hey Elzabeth, what are you doing?" Looking at her side, Elizabeth replied to her with a monotonous tone. "I''m asking the right questions." Rumia face palmed with the stubbornness of Elizabeth, thinking of their difference and simrities. ''We''re both Princess, you know! Your tone of asking is condescending!'', she sighed looking at the other Princess beside her, continuing to tell her point to the professor who''s listening professionally. ¡­ ''This Princess will attract more danger in the future for a different reason than being a noble.'' Professor Lyncoster thought as she listened to the thorough questions that seems to pierce that missing puzzles of iplete unknown researches. "To answer one of your questions Ms. Elizabeth, yes, there were human experimentations that failed that tried to absorb chaos through their bodies. That''s all the answer I can give you because regarding the name of organization or group that did those kind of horrible things, it is not something I could divulge on my own discretion." Different reactions of students were painted on their own faces; gasps, shock, concern, daze, and unimaginable expressions seeped into their hearts, even Elizabeth who asked the questions agape with professor Lyncoster''s answer as she didn''t expect such information to be said. "I am telling you all such things because in the future, you will encounter far more dangerous and terrible things, so better to learn to be responsible of your own actions, not to regret itter." ~ Diriririring! ~ A bell sounded, signalling the end of the ss. Professor left the ssroom with an expression of professional as if nothing happened. ¡­ "Hey, Elizabeth! Want to grab a breakfast? I haven''t eat earlier, sigh¡­" Rumia Flora asked Elizabeth who''s writing something on her notebook while looking at it with a serious expression on her face. "Nevermind, hey Leon! Samantha? Apany me!" ''Why does no one wants to apany me? The mood became sour because ofst ss, it''s not even a Philosophy subject!'' shempooned. She looked around the ssroom, hoping for someone to apany her whilementing within herself, felt like an abandoned child, then she saw a girl, waiting for other two women tidying their belongings, and without a second thought, she approached them. ¡­ "Hi...? Can I join you guys?" A woman with a noble aura, pigtail blonde hair, and sapphire-like eyes, at least 165 cm in height asked Freya, Amery, and Amelie a sudden question, prompting the trio to be stupefied. ''What''s going on?'' ''What''s going on?'' ''What''s going on?'' As if the trio have a hivemind, thought of the same thing without speaking with each other. The five-second silence resulted to the awkwardness of the situation, and Rumia, who asked something out of ce said¡­ "Ahhh¡­ are you guys going to the cafeteria?" ''I asked them if I could join them without knowing first where they''ll go! What an embarrassment!'' "Yes, why?" Said Freya, the assumed leader of the trio. "That¡­ yes, ha ha haha." With an awkwardugh, Rumia felt like she lost her nobility. "No problem, you can go along, we''re going in the same ce, after all." Freya replied, showing consideration with the sudden predicament of a poor noble, while prompting Amery and Amelie to move. Rumia followed suit. ''What a weirdo.'' ''What a weirdo.'' ''What a weirdo.'' The trio respectively thought. Chapter 35 Some Ugly Reality ? "Oppa! I''m sorry!" A girl with slightly long blonde hair, sapphire-like eyes, at least 166 cm in height, and a fitted figure called to the man whose back was facing her, and walked away with heavy steps as other students stared at them with myriad expressions. "I told you don''t even bother in joining such exam!" Restraining himself to shout at the girl, the man with short blonde hair, and deep blue eyes said his thoughts in a slightly loud manner, prompting some students to look at them, and causing some whispers to regte among the prying students. "I''m sorry. Oppa¡­" With her head hung low, Mira von Obreyon, walking behind her brother, Leon von Obreyon said in a dejected tone. She didn''t win the Disciplinary Officer Trial Exam, and Leon, who values the family ''Obreyon'', felt ashamed at such a situation. ''Tsk¡­ why do I have such a weak sister!?'' He repressed his emotions as they were attracting the attention of students, and just said to his younger sister. "Get lost. Don''t make me repeat myself." "Oppa¡­" As if understanding the personality of her big brother, Mira didn''t push anymore and was left standing in the hallway with a teary eye as the other three students, which are her friends and ssmates approached her. "Hey, Mira, what the hell is wrong with your brother? He''s such a prick!" A girl with short brown hair, and brown eyes, at least 166 cm in height said; she was apanied by another girl and a man. "I''m fine, Lyn¡­" Mira replied with a hint of conviction, her personality was something that grows firmer every time she was considered like a worthless person. "Sigh¡­ let''s go to the cafeteria, and rx, alright." Lyn said, wanting tofort her friend, the other twopanions didn''t say anything asforting was something they were not suited or skilled for. ¡­ ''This¡­ what the hell is this crappy situation?'' Russell Moon who waited for her younger sister in the Obelisk Cafeteria One put on a frowning expression as he saw Rumia Flora together with the trio. ''Interaction with Samantha Hall was fine, considering her predicament, but this¡­ this is a total doom! Though Samantha is the daughter of the number 1 ''yer'' in the human domain, she''s someone who is distant from her father, at least freer whenpared to Rumia who has the status of a Princess in the country Nereia, though the Obelisk Academy didn''t take note of such ''status'' in a high degree, there were still shadows behind Rumia, and Elizabeth, in other words, whoever approaches her, and whoever she approaches will be investigated in the shadows. ''This fuc-'' "Hello, is she?" Russell Moon looked at her younger sister as he asked the question, having controlled himself to blurt out such profane words. ''Rumia didn''t know she has shadows behind her, at least not right now, so I can''t really me her.'' "Yes, you guess right. Hmm¡­ she wantedpany, so we let her get along." Freya said, anyone knows who''s Rumia, not just her, but the other four; Samantha Hall, Elizabeth von Etherion, Anya Amasawa, and Leon von Obreyon. ''Why isn''t she with Elizabeth right now?'' "Oh. Alright, Hello, I''m Russell, Freya''s older brother." I introduced myself out of formality, revealing a smile that felt like a fake while thinking about the eyes in the shadow scrutinizing me, my younger sister, as well as Amery and Amelie. "Hello, I''m Rumia Flora, I apologize for inconveniencing you." She replied with a hint of embarrassment as she scratched her right cheek lightly with her right hand while looking to her side. After the introductions and such, the five students enjoyed their meal during the few minutes of break. ¡­ Somewhere in the Obelisk Academy "You got anything?" asked a mysterious figure having long ck hair, and green eyes, at least 170cm in height, and in her mid-twenties. "Here." inly replied another figure with blonde short hair and blue eyes, at least 168cm in height, also in her mid-twenties. On a holographic screen seen on the smartwatch, the personal background of four people was thoroughly seen. "Brother and sister, aplete family¡­, one came from an orphanage, not abandoned, but has dead parents, while thest one has parents, but living separately?" "Nothing is certain for now, let''s continue to observe them for a while." Ordered the green-eyed woman as their figures vanished in the shadows as if they were swallowed by the ground. ¡­ "Oppa, see youter!" Russell bid his goodbye to his younger sister Freya, andpany after their meal, going back to their respective ssrooms, as soon as his back turned to them, his expression turned into a serious one. ''Fuck¡­'' he cursed inwardly as he knew something had transpired behind the scenes that were disrespectful to some extent, but understandable to the other party. Without many options to do something about it, Russell continued his pace toward his assigned ssroom for the next ss. ''There''s no elective ss today.'' ... ''Basic Mana Theory'' ss "There are basic theories of Mana that we will discuss during the whole semester before you advance to the ''Advanced Mana Theory''. Please refer to this one..." A woman who diligently taught the ss operated a tablet she was holding as the whiteboard used for holographic projection emitted a holographic screen where the following words were written. - Famous Basic Mana Theories 1. ording to the Law of Mana Indestructibility, mana cannot be created nor destroyed, but can be modified. 2. Mana is an all-purpose substance whether for harm or for a cure. 3. Mana does not repulse each other. Mana Repulsion only urred depending on where the mana is applied. Russell looked at the lessonid on his sight and put on a dumbstruck expression. ''I only know the number 1!'' hempooned. ''Though I have an idea about the meaning of numbers 2 and 3 based on the novel I''ve written. They''re self-exnatory, but I didn''t expect to have theories like that... I can''t even have such resources regarding such things a few years back.'' he sighed as a bit of nostalgia enveloped his emotions. "Like the ''Law of Conservation of Energy'' that the ''old world'' had, after the Emergence, and few years of thorough research and studies, it is highly suggested that any energy has Mana, we were not aware of it without the existence of the System before, and for the Theory number 2..., you..." The Professor looked to the far left of the ss and pointed at the student sitting there while Russell Moon, wondering about it, looked behind him, and when his eyes went back and forth from behind, and the professor, he heard the professor''s voice. "Mr. Russell Moon, I''m asking you." Clearing the misunderstanding, Russell pointed to himself, wondering if he heard wrong. "Yes, is there any Russell Moon here?" Sarcastically asked the professor. Laughs reverberated across the ssroom. ''This b-, this beautiful professor really...'' "Yes ma''am?" he asked, waiting for the question to be thrown. "What do you think Theory Number 2 means? Any idea Mr. Moon?" Looking at the holographic screen where Theory Number 2 was written, and remembering the novel he wrote, Russell answered the question thrown at him. "Ma''am, I think it is said that Mana is for harm or for cure based on the aftermath of the ''Emergence'', because of the consolidation of Mana, diseases that existed when Mana was not abundant vanished instantly after the Emergence, and all diseases that exist today were rted to ''Mana''. My point is Mana, depending on its use and nature could be used to harm or cure someone..." ''Did I get it right !?'' I''m the writer yet I''m not even sure myself!'' Russell inwardly ridiculed himself. "Correct." The professor straight up said, prompting some students to look at Russell with awe while some murmured themon tagged name of him. "That weirdo is smart." "Should we befriend him?" "Hahaha" ~Whispers...~ ''I heard you motherf-'' The voice of the professor cut off his inward cursing and the whispers of other students. "Mana cured old age, yet could be used to quickly kill someone, isn''t that right?..." Her tone turned serious and the atmosphere throughout the ss became gloomy. Besides from the abundance of mana that cured old age which causes the human''s average lifespan to be more than thrice from the ''old world'', and maintaining physical features befitting a 50-year-old even the real age might be older. Though Emergence happened at least 60 years ago, it''s already scientifically or magically proven that the human physique reach another realm in which one''s life expectancy increased. But the harm that could be done with the use of mana in various ways made it also very dangerous like Mana Poisoning or Corrupted Mana exposure. As the professor keep speaking while the whole ss is listening, Russell remembered one specific thing and a few lines in the novel he wrote which was one of the ugly realities he came up with that decreased one''s empathy, and caused one''s selfishness to be exercised to its maximum. ''The aftermath of the Emergence, though billions of people died, it was considered by other people as a blessing in disguise when they discovered that their love ones who had an incurable disease in the ''old world'' suddenly got cured after the Emergence due to ''Mana'' abundance, reinforcing their bodies, while it''s a pity for others who lost their love ones, it was a blessing for those who lived longer upon the others'' deaths.'' Chapter 36 Banquet Of Obelisk (2) A week had passed as the announcement regarding the event ''Banquet of Obelisk'' was announced that garnered different reactions from the students, and even some teachers, who didn''t have any idea about the existence of the ce called ''Obelisk Center Hall''. ¡­ Last Friday, the day of the announcement about the ''Banquet of Obelisk, inside a personal training room with the room number 3, a woman with a bob hairstyle, having red hair, with ruby eyes, and with a height of 166 cm. ~Swisssh¡­~ A training dummy was cut in half by a chained sickle that goes both ways, it was swung by the woman as if it were a normal toy that its weight didn''t even need to be considered. ~Ririririring¡­~ With the sound of a call from her smartwatch, prompting her to stop her ongoing training, she sat down on the ground of the training ground with a cross-legged pose and answered the call. "How''s my daughter?" A voice of a man came from the other end of the call, exuding a gentle tone yet one could tell that it possessed authority. "I''m fine, Dad! You''re disturbing my training." Though the sound of her tone was quite harsh for a daughter, it contained something like dness by having to talk to her father. "Hahaha, forgive me my daughter, I just want to tell you about the opening of Obelisk Center Hall." The man on the other endughed, amused by her daughter as if their rtionship is something like ofradery. "Dad, you know I don''t like my name to be in there! Just your name would suffice enough attraction." Her father was a doting one that provides everything she needs, the downside was that her father wants her name to spread like wildfire as if their family surname didn''t have enough reputation! "Alright, alright! See you on Wednesday, okay? I love you, Anya." Giving up on his daughter, he bid his goodbye and proceeded to end the call without waiting for her daughter''s answer. ¡­ Wednesday, the day of the ''Banquet of Obelisk'' sses were suspended for the preparation of the event, even for seniors who were not participants of the banquet with the exception of Student Council and Disciplinary Committee members. This gives them at least a day of rest. ... Room 26 of the Rigel Building Russell Moon visited her younger sister, Freya Moon who is residing in this extravagant dormitory. He made an appointment in advance as there''s a restriction on meeting students from A-1. ''My dorm is like stablespared to this five-star hotel-like building.'' ~Knock knock~ Knocking on the door, with a te signifying Room 26 above it, a ''click'' sound was heard from the inside as the creaking followed next. Soon after, Russell went inside and saw the other two; Amery and Amelie sitting on a couch beside the bed, watching something on the television provided also by the Obelisk Academy. "Good afternoon Russell!" Amelie Rose greeted me with her usual demeanor; a cheerful who always smile, while Amery just nodded at me as her greeting, maintaining her aloof atmosphere. I nodded at both of them, responding to their greetings. ''I don''t even have the will to open my mouth.'' Russellmpooned, almost prompting him to scratch his hair. Though it''s not evident in his expression, hecked of sleep for a few days thinking about the shadows lurking behind Rumia, observing them for quite some time. "Oppa, have you prepared a suit?" Freya asked, wondering if her big brother managed to buy suitable attire for the banquet. Unsurprisingly, one could buy an attire inside the Obelisk Academy, in one of its ''Clothing Stores''. "Yeah, I got one, how about you three?" He asked, also referring to Amelie and Amery. "We bought dresses together, do you want to see ''Oppa''?" Freya asked, expecting an answer from her big brother. "No," he replied inly, prompting Freya to pout unconsciously. "You two are really close siblings, you know?" Amelie interjected, saying what she thought about the interaction between the two. As they keep chattering about many things, a piece of news on television was heard, prompting the four of them to look at it, and listen attentively. "Crescent Weaponry Company will soon release various weapons and armor on the ''market''. These new types of equipment were scientifically, and magically proven by renowned scientists and magic engineers¡­" ¡­ "Tsk, I hope their types of equipment are affordable, or else, it''s always the rich who will get the opportunity." Freya voice her thoughts that simply resemble the gap between the rich and the poor. ''I guess it''s time for the first disaster outside the Obelisk Academy¡­'' Russell thought, remembering the details of the novel he wrote. ''This will be a kind of evil on my part, but I guess it''s time to make some money¡­ by buying shorts of their stocks in advance. Though I''m not stupid enough to walk through their doors and do such a thing.'' He said inwardly as he thought of the uing future. "Weapons¡­" Amery whispered, prompting Russell, Freya, and Amelie to look at her, with her eyes shining like a star. "This girl really¡­" Freya said in resignation. "By the way, Russell, what it''s like in your ss?" Amelie Rose asked out of nowhere, with a look of curiosity in her eyes wondering about the difference in treatment between A-1 ss and other sses. "Freer." He answered with a tone of mockery. "Ah¡­ is that so? Ours were strict as if there''s no tomorrow, everyone is serious¡­ right Freya?" Amelie said, with a tone of dejection. "What are you on about now?" Freya who was sitting on the bed took the ss with water ced on the desk and took a gulp of it. "They treat us as more special than others." Surprisingly, Amery voiced her opinion, and Russell agreed to it. "She''s right by the way, but that''s all there is to it." Based on the novel he wrote, A-1 ss were considered special among other sses, thus treating them with a more restricted approach when ites to teaching the students, while the other sses, from A-2 to A-12 were treated as extras, but at the same time, a challenge for A-1 students because being in A-2 to A-12 didn''t mean that they''re weaker especially if one would only consider the ''Entrance Exam'' criteria of assigning the student''s ss. "Oppa, I''m curious about your advice before..." Freya said, remembering one of this big brother''s advice. "Ohhhh¡­ what advice? Spill it!" Amelie, being more excited to hear what Russell has to say, while Amery also formed curious eyes. Thinking about it for a while, though not the exact reason, but also equivalent to the truth, Russell answered what the three of them are curious about. "I told my younger sister before we go to the Academy after the assignment of sses that she shouldn''t make friends with famous people in her ss." "Why? Isn''t it beneficial to have a connection with them?" Amelie didn''t bother to ask for their names as she knows who he was referring to. ''They''re the main characters in the novel I''ve written! Pure trouble!'' he repressed himself from saying such absurd things and gave an answer that is within an eptable range in perspective. "Many people will get jealous of people who manage to make connections with them. You will be a target of hate at some point." ''I can''t say that some of them have shadows who will investigate you!'' "But¡­ I think you could befriend one of them¡­" Thinking about it now, Russell''s early morning routine, when she encountered Samantha Hall, was repeated for a couple of days, though he couldn''t totally justify if he made the right decision of talking to her, but considering her predicament, it''s like he became a trigger for her to be more carefree rationally, at least inside the Academy. ''Though it was supposed to happen sooner, I just fast-forwarded it." ¡­ After more chattering, Russell bid his goodbye to her younger sister, and the duo who stayed in her dorm room. "Freya, isn''t your brother kind of weird?" Amelie asked, with a curious tone, wondering about Russell''s perspectives of things and his demeanor. "Yes, you could say that, but he''s right most of the time." Freya, who didn''t deny his big brother''s weirdness sometimes, praised him with her words. "He has many secrets." Freya and Amelie Rose looked at the most-of-the-time silent Amery, with a dumbfounded expression on their faces. "What do you mean?" "What do you mean!?" Freya and Amelie asked almost at the same time, also prompting Freya to look at the ceiling of her dorm room while lying on her bed, remembering the difference in her big brother''s usual stature. "No, she''s right, I just remember something¡­ but it''s okay, we shouldn''t talk about that." pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 The least I could do was to divert their attention away from my big brother. "Right, sorry, we shouldn''t pry about such things, everyone has a secret. Hehe" This time, it was Amery and Freya who looked at Amelie Rose with a suspicious gaze, prompting her to scratch her cheeks. ¡­ 7:50 P.M, Banquet of Obelisk, 10 minutes before the start of the event. ~Whoaaaa! It really is open! ~What in the hell? ~I can''t believe it''s a kind of building, too. Various opinions resounded inside the Obelisk Center Hall, the gigantic ''Obelisk'' architecture in the middle of the Obelisk Academy that many people thought was only a symbol, but tonight, it was proven to be an outstanding infrastructure that could amodate thousands of people. "Whoaaa! Freya, why does it feel like bigger inside than from its looks on the outside?" Amelie asked in amazement, and a voice of a man they''re familiar with answered her. "It''s a space magic." "Oppa! I thought you''d bete!" "Space magic? Isn''t that rare?" Amelie asked in wonder, thinking about the ''space magic'' that is a very powerful kind of skill considered among ''yers''. "I don''t have all the details, I just thought of Dimensional Inventory that we have." Russell said, though he knew that this space was caused by an Artifact called ''Dimensional Square", such detail was controversial, and blurting it out would have him arrested immediately. The Obelisk Scientists and Magic Engineers managed to utilize the Dimensional Inventory in a different way, thus creating the Dimensional Square artifact. As if understanding what he thought about, Freya interjected. "Right¡­ we could store objects regardless of weight and size inside the Dimensional Inventory¡­" "Hey, hey, is your brother a secret genius? Why is he in A-11?" Amelie made a cheeky remark, prompting Russell to put on a frowning expression. ''I know because I''ve written it!'' hempooned inwardly, remembering that he knew, but not how it was thoroughly made. ¡­ "What a beauty!" "Is that a goddess on earth?" "The goddesses have descended!" Different reactions from some students entered the ears of Russell, and the others as the famous figures entered the Obelisk Center Hall, a minute or two before the start of the event. ''Though they didn''t seem like close on the outside, due to their parents'' connections with each other, they formed at least a bond.'' Russell thought. ¡­ The inside of the Obelisk Center Hall is a spacious ground where the floor was thoroughly cleaned as if it became a mirror that one could see their reflection if they look on it. Numerous round tables were ced across the venue that could amodate at least eight seats each table, and on the side were different kinds of delicacies and drinks prepared by staff specialized in catering while on the other side were the technical staff responsible for music and lights that were not ordinary as Skills suit for rxation were mixed on it. "Good evening everyone! This marks the start of the ''Banquet of Obelisk!" As the clock ticked at 7 o''clock in the evening, the alluring voice that could make a person like a living puppet entered the ears of everyone present, prompting each pair of eyes to look on stage where a beautiful woman with tinum hair, purple eyes, and a body befitting a model was standing. Chapter 37 Another Storys Prologue The students sitting around each designated table listened to the words of Ms. Ayleen Mayfield, one of the professors assigned with teaching the ss A-1. Though the tables werebeled per ss, a student can leave his or her seat freely, respecting one''s choice. "As you may know, the purpose of this ''Banquet'' is for each one of you to make an acquaintance, but before we proceed to that, various events will be held ordingly. Please, refer to the booklet given to you on the day of the announcementst Friday." As Ms. Ayleen''s words were heard, the students who had a booklet each of their own opened it and read its contents, though it was given a few days earlier, the flow of events was not exined properly. Russell Moon who was sitting on one of the banquet chairs read the contents of the booklet, the same with Freya, Amery, and Amelie, even if they''re from ss A-1, and the event hasn''t officially started yet, it was encouraged to have apany before the event, thus rendering the official seat arrangement as useless. ''Banquet of Obelisk Booklet'' Event list: 1. Opening Ceremony - Obelisk Anthem 2. Performance Number - Recreational Club 3. Making Acquaintances 4. Dance Floor 5. Closing Ceremony Though the entirety of the event felt like a short one, the ''making of acquaintances'' including the ''dance floor'' has a long duration, making most of the time. As every student does their own business whether reading the booklet, talking with one another, confused about what to do, or preparing to approach their prospective target to be made friends or something else; Vice-Chancellor Dexter Rainfall entered the stage, prompting everyone to look on him as he exudes a gentle aura with a dignified atmosphere at the same time. "Good evening first-years! Please stand up for our Obelisk Anthem." Everyone stood up as his dignified voice, containing great respect for the Obelisk Academy, entered the ears of everyone in the hall as each individual whether students or staff straightened their backs and waited for the ''Obelisk Anthem''. ''Goddess, I hope you''re not listening right now!'' Russellmpooned, knowing the contents of the ''Obelisk Academy'' before he even went in as a student. "The Obelisk Academy, blessed by the System Looked upon by Constetions The proud soon-to-be Champions The Obelisk Academy, blessed by the System Opportunities are born yers we are, humans we are The Obelisk will reach the heavens" ~p p p~ Russell Moon frowned at the lyrics he wrote in his novel as he heard it personally for the first time as there was no such ceremony before sses unlike in his previous life, and thest line was almost a sphemy to the Constetions, especially against the most prideful ones. ''I''m d their influence wasn''t maximized yet.'' Constetions with the use of the System function can send messages to individuals they have an eye for, and events that need collective participation were the kind of System messages that are sent to everyone whether to humanity only or every race across the world. A Constetion influence, though almost 40 years had passed since the Emergence, was very limited, and it''s not possible for them to have a ''spawn of a Constetion''. ''The sessive openings of Close Mystery Towers will increase their influence in the future.'' ''Though I am training in the Chaos Training Grounds every night, it''s still not enough, nowhere near enough,'' he thought. "Please, let us wee the Recreational Club!" The voice of the Student Council President cut off Russell''s thoughts as he introduced the members of the Recreational Club with its duty to entertain everyone in the banquet with the use of dancing, and singing. ''Come to think of it¡­ whose voice sung the Obelisk Anthem? I didn''t know!'' It was a recorded voice by a woman, it has a soothing and dignified voice matching the anthem''s theme. Russell looked around from his seat, more specifically on ss A-1 tables where the main characters were sitting. He wants to be a spectator for now. ''That Han Jiho cannot talk at all, though he''s being approached by many girls due to his overpowered charm stat; the same with Leon, though his smile is fake as fuck, forming an expression that one might want to punch him to the ground.'' As he looked around, his gaze stopped at Elizabeth, Rumia, and Samantha, not just his gaze, but many pair of eyes were looking at them as if seeing a descent of a goddess. Elizabeth is wearing an evening dress, matching her long blonde hair which reaches her waist as she gives off the impression of being a royalty, while Rumia wore a mini dress with various light color that shows her knees and Samantha wore a white shirt dress that exposes her fair-colored legs. Those delusional would obviously thought that she''s garnering attention with her body, but knowing her personality¡­ ''She probably wore that so that she can move easily if a fight breaks out,'' Russell thought as he made a self-deprecatingugh inwardly. ¡­ After a few hours, the dances and songs were done, and on the stage, the Student Council President spoke¡­ "I hope you enjoyed what the Recreational Club had prepared, and now it will be your time!" The lights from the massive chandelier changed, along with the atmosphere signifying the ''making of acquaintances'' event which is originally the main focus of the banquet. ''Your time my ass, you probably going to scout some students with potential,'' Russell thought as he took a sip of a lemon juice served by one of the staff earlier. ¡­ On the ss A-1 table A flock of girls came to Han Jiho as he formed a flustered situation, remembering what the Chancellor Alexander told him. ''Just enjoy the night.'' ''I''d rather train in my personal training ground,'' he thought as he force a smile for the girls flocking into him, and asking various questions. "Hey, hey, what are you all doing? Can''t you see he''s being ufortable?" The flock of girls looked to the location of where the voice came, there, a blonde woman with light green eyes was sitting with her arms crossed. As soon as they saw the woman, their eyes immediately widened, and sweat formed on their foreheads. "Princess¡­" muttered by a girl with long ck hair, and grayish eyes. "Let''s go¡­" said by another girl with short hair, and brown eyes while holding one of the arms of the girl who muttered ''Princess.'' "Don''t call me that," Elizabeth said in a monotonous tone. "Sorry, sorry!" the girls bowed their heads and scurried away. "Are you okay? Must be nice being a handsome, right?" She said to Han Jiho in her normal tone. "Handsome?" The clueless Han Jiho replied in a confused manner. "You should probably look in the mirror at least once," Elizabeth replied as she reached for a ss full of wine free of alcohol, and took a sip of it. "By the way, thank you, I didn''t know what to do, and why didn''t mene to you when you''re beautiful?" He asked, with genuine confusion on his face. "Bleerrrghhhh, pfftttt! HAHAHA! Sorry, sorry!" Elizabeth spat out the drink she drank to the floor, unbefitting of a Princess. "Beautiful you say? HAHAHA, you may be right, but people are afraid of my ''Status'' as a Princess, same with Rumia, that woman¡­" She looked at Rumia who is currently talking with another woman on another table who is a redhead with a bob hairstyle and ruby eyes. Each table for the A-1 ss was almost empty as most of them were making friends or talking to the Student Council and Disciplinary Committee members. "Princess¡­ you don''t act like one." Han Jiho said as she looked to another table where Rumia and Anya were talking. "Yeah, I''m different from your usual fairy tale princess. Though I act like a free bird, I don''t do anything that will ruin my family''s name, well, even if I did, it will be resolved quickly just by having my surname. It''s a pity that I can''t socialize more freely with others aside from people with connections with my family." She said while thinking about her family''s reputation as a top-rank guild as well as the ruler of Etheria. Han Jiho remembered another advice of from Chancellor Alexander and asked Elizabeth for something. "Is that so¡­ uhmm¡­ you can tell me any stories, I''d listen." He said as he remembered what Chancellor Alexander said¡­ ''People here will consider you strange based on where you came from, that''s why you should talk to them in a manner where they''ll suspect that nothing is wrong.'' "Hahaha, you''re an amusing one, alright! I''m bored here anyway." This was the moment where the two of the main characters that have no formal connections formed a bond. ''Good, good¡­'' Russell thought as he watched the interactions between them from afar. ¡­ ''What is he doing right now?'' ''Isn''t he making a friend or apanion?'' ''Why though?'' ''Doesn''t he need such a person?'' ''Crap, crap! Why am I thinking about such a thing?'' ''It''s not my business!'' ''Isn''t he going to approach me here?'' ''Where is he seated by the way?'' ''So it''s only during -¡­'' A cry of thoughts of a woman sitting on one of the A-1 designated tables were rampaging on her mind as a sudden voice cut off her brewing thoughts. "Is this seat taken?" Chapter 38 Courting Death (1) Samantha Hall, whose thoughts were a mess, frowned as she looked behind her, destroying her slight expectation. Seeing her reaction, the man became flustered, forgetting what to say next. This prompted Samantha to say something first amidst the two or three seconds of silence. "Who are you?" Her words came out of her mouth with an assertive tone, causing the man to flinch slightly with the unexpected words he just heard. "Hahaha, you''re joking right?" As if the man''s pride were tainted by the three words he heard from Samantha, he couldn''t help but to remind himself to calm down. "No, I''m not," Samantha replied with a monotonous tone this time as if she couldn''t wait for a such boring situation to end. "I''m Reinhardt, mydy, from the Apollon family." The man with short blonde hair and reddish eyes said as he introduced himself, and bowed slightly while his right hand was on his chest. Samantha heard Reinhardt and remember his family, but that''s all there is to it, and she said with a careless tone. "Okay? What now?" This prompted the man to grit his teeth unconsciously as Samantha wasn''t even looking at him as she''s looking around looking for someone. "You¡­!" As Reinhardt''s patience was reaching its limit, he heard another woman''s voice which stopped him from saying anything that will offend Samantha, and looked at the person approaching him. "Rein! I''m looking for you, what are you doing here?" The woman with red hair that reaches her shoulders, and blood-colored eyes asked. "Ruina? Nothing, I''m just talking to an acquaintance." Reinhardt said to Ruina while he took nces at Samantha still looking for something or someone. "Liar." He heard Samantha''s low voice, obviously referring to him. His veins in his forehead bulged as if he cannot suppress his emotions anymore due to his patience reaching rock bottom. Ruina also heard Samantha''s voice and sensed that something was wrong, prompting her to quickly pull Reinhardt by his arm. pAn,Da-n0v e1,c "What are you doing!?" Shocked by the sudden action of Ruina; Reinhardt reflexively asked, but his thoughts quickly became nk and his emotions suddenly changed to fear instead of anger as he looked at Ruina, seeing the blood-colored eyes emanating a dangerous aura. "Found you!" Before their sights leave Samantha; Reinhardt and Ruina heard her words, prompting them to look in the direction where her eyes were looking, but they didn''t make out of anything, leaving them confused. ''Who is this woman looking for?'' Ruina asked inwardly as they got farther away from her. ¡­ Russell Moon was secretly watching the spectacle from afar with his enhanced vision due to his Skill: Eye of Night (EX) under his Trait: Under the Night with the effect of one of his Titles which is the ''Resident of Chaos'' that amplified it. ''These two would make a good couple, unfortunately, or fortunately, it won''t happen.'' He thought as he looked at Reinhardt and Ruina leaving together away from Samantha, and then his nce came back to Samantha resulting in one word to keep repeating in his mind¡­ ''No, no, no, no, no¡­'' He saw Samantha Hall looking back at him with an unknown expression. [Activating Skill: Eye of Night (EX)] [Examining the emotions and hidden nature of the target] [Warning! An unknown power within the target is reacting!] [Your Trait: Nihility haspletely concealed your Chaos Aura!] [Target''s Emotions: Bored, d] [Target''s Hidden Nature: Possessive] ¡­ Russell made a serious expression as he examined the result of using his Skill: Eye of Night. ''The unknown power must be her locked Stigma¡­ fucking hell, what is this situation? I know of her Possessiveness¡­ as her predicament in her home was quite rough, she''s prone to developing attachment quickly which is not limited to something like a romantic rtionship; at least also to people who she deemed genuine and has no ill intentions.'' As he looked at the System messages, he looked away from Samantha''s gaze and soon chatted with her younger sister Freya, Amery, and Amelie who were talking with Mira, Lyn, and another man and woman. ¡­ A man with blonde hair and deep blue eyes became tired of some girls who flocked to him while keeping his necessary image publicly. ''Fucking pests!'' Leon von Obreyon thought as the girls he entertained left, answering their questions as if he was in an interview. "Yo! Leon!" The approaching Elizabeth called Leon who was sitting cross-legged, drinking his alcohol-free wine. Leon looked at her with a serious expression, while Elizabeth who saw such an expression brushed it off. ''This one can''t even fucking act as a Princess!'' He cursed inwardly, but subconsciously envied her because she''s stronger than him, though Student Rank wasn''t the final deciding factor of prowess, a person with standing in society will think differently even if that person was just bearing his or her family''s name. "I''ve made a friend! Hahaha!" Leon''s thoughts were cut off as he saw a man on Elizabeth''s back with short hair and deep ck eyes, slightly shorter than him. A frowning expression was formed on his face, though the lights were dim for the event''s atmosphere, he could clearly see the man, prompting him to clench his right fist. "Hello, I''m Han Jiho, you are?" Han Jiho said in a friendly tone, but it was taken by Leon as rude based on his question. ''This fucker¡­'' Leon cursed, but he responded to Han Jiho''s question. "Leon von Obreyon, nice to meet you." He stood up and stretched out his right hand, asking for a handshake while Han Jiho responded to it, a grin formed on Leon''s expression. He gripped tightly, waiting for Han Jiho''s reaction, but contrary to his expectation, he was met with the same grip strength. ''This¡­'' He quickly ended the handshake and looked at Han Jiho with curious eyes, but what he saw was an expression as if nothing happened. ''This bastard is a fucking weirdo!'' He thought, and then he heard Elizabeth''s voice who saw what happened, causing her expression to form a smile. "It''s boring! I wanna dance already! Rumia! Anya! What are you doing there? Come here! You, too Samantha, you''re always alone!" With her words, she was met with gazes of the trio she called, but they responded and each took a seat, amodating six seats from the table. Their presence together garnered so much attention from others whether they are students, staff, or professors. ¡­ ''That''s my midwoman!'' Russell inwardly shouted forgetting his concern about a certain woman as he referred to Elizabeth and feeling rxed witnessing the correct development of the story of the main characters'' first get-together¡­ at least with the inclusion of Han Jiho. "Alright! First-years, it''s time for the dance floor!" Shouts everywhere were heard as Azalea Vermillion, the President of the Disciplinary Committee, announced the beginning of the long-awaited dance. "You could invite who you want to dance with! Enjoy!" The music and lights turned solemn, signaling the kind of tempo for the dance where his sights of the ''main characters'' first get-together moved away. ''Right, this is a high school life¡­'' Russell thought, feeling nostalgic about his ball experience in his previous life, looking at his younger sister, Amery, and Amelie enjoying their time of conversation as if the world came back from its ''old'' predicament where one''s Status Window, and Constetions does not exists. This caused him to put on a genuine smile unconsciously for a few seconds. ''This will also probably be thest party these people will experience on arge scale as students,'' he apologetically said inwardly, knowing the information of the future based on his novel, at least that''s what he believed, but considering the so-called ''Untouched Elements'', he could only hope that it would not stray too far from the original development of the story, and after he saw the first get-together of the ''main characters'' he wrote about, going the same route from the original, it caused quite a bit of relief. While Russell was thinking about some things, he became flustered, wondering why the gazes of people inside the Obelisk Academy Hall were gradually turning to his side whether they are from the first-year students, seniors from the Student Council and Disciplinary Committee who are recruiting a bunch of students, staff such as waiters and technical support assigned for tonight''s catering, as well as lights and rxing music respectively, and professors of the academy. At first, he thought that it was just his imagination ying with him, but upon hearing a voice from behind him when he had no idea when the person''s owner of the voice came from where he was seated; the reality slowly crept up into his mind, realizing the gravity of the situation on what he will be put into; his heart started to beat faster, not in a good way, and it sent shivers running down his spine, sensing an aura of death in the near future. "Can we dance?" The words of the owner of the voice reverberated throughout the Center Obelisk Hall. Chapter 39 Courting Death (2) "Can we dance?" Her gentle words with a tempting tone reverberated across the Obelisk Center Hall, if other people would be asked by the woman behind Russell, most would definitely agree without a second thought, but he''s different as he thought of possible circumstances that will befall himter. "Hey, who is that?" "He''s one of our ssmates on A-11, you know." "But why though? Did they know each other?" Different opinions resounded on different tables where other students sat, as well as different gazes were evident on them. Looks of stupefaction, confusion, envy, and so on were painted on their expressions, then Russell, who couldn''t understand his present predicament, took a look behind him to make sure he wasn''t dreaming¡­ there he saw the woman with auburn hair which she didn''t ponytail this time, revealing her long hair, brown eyes under her eyesses, and height of 169 cm. ''Samantha Hall¡­ when did she get behind me?'' he thought, though he swept away his sight from them for a minute, he didn''t think she''d approach him much less ask for a dance! "Are you going to make me wait?" ''F*ck!'' his gaze swept across the Center Obelisk Hall, he saw her younger sister, Amelie, and Amery had different reactions. Freya has a shocked expression, wondering how the two knew each other, Amelie is smiling as if she ships the duo that''s garnering the attention of everyone, while Amery has an unexinable expression. Russell Moon thought of the possible oues of this situation¡­ First, he has no choice as Samantha already approached him, making him a ''target'' of Reinhardt. Second, refusing to dance with Samantha would result in a more disadvantageous consequence as people will surely think that he is an arrogant bastard, who dared to refuse the daughter of the number 1 ''yer'' in the human domain. Third, if he epts the dance offered by her, some people will be wary of him having a connection with Samantha Hall, though there will still surely be people who are dumb enough to bully him after this. Andstly, he will be able to make use of this situation to gather the attention of Reinhardt, justifying himself to get rid of him earlier than nned for the future harassment of whatever he will encounter that will cause by him, or instigated by the b*tch Ruina Elen Avalon. As he decided, Russell stood up from his seat, face the expectant Samantha Hall who is wearing a white shirt dress that exposes her fair-colored legs, looked her in the eyes while his left hand ced on his lower back, and bowing in a gentlemanly manner while he extended his right hand, asking Samantha Hall for her permission¡­ "Shall we?" Samantha''s eyes produced a yellowish-brown luster as if it''s shining with the night atmosphere, a smile formed on her expression as she took the hand extended to her, then the two proceeded to walk to the ''floor'' specially made for dancing as the gazes, and whispers of people continued within this spacious hall. ¡­ "Hahahahaha! This night will surely be unforgettable!" Elizabeth von Etherionughed so much as one of her hands was touching her abdomen as she couldn''t control herughter. "Do you know who is he?" Han Jiho asked while they were at the round table with Leon, Rumia, and Anya who are also have different reactions on their faces. "I don''t know, hahaha! This is surely unexpected, well, I couldn''t me her, after all¡­" she paused, remembering Samantha''s predicament in her home which is not entirely a secret to them. ''She just needs someone who can look at her genuinely without hidden intentions or purpose of doing any business.'' She thought. While the two; Han Jiho and Anya Amasawa were looking at Russell Moon, whose name they don''t know, for now, thought of something as they spoke within their mind¡­ ''This guy is suspicious¡­'' ¡­ At a table where some seniors were sitting¡­ "Who is that bastard?" Repressing his myriad emotions, Rein asked Ruina such a question even though he knew that Ruina didn''t know him. ''You b*tch!!! Is he the one you''re looking for earlier when I approached you?'' His thoughts were getting messier as he heard Ruina''s voice from his side¡­ "What do you n on doing?" She asked, with a mischievous smile painted on her lips. "Nothing¡­ for now." Clenching his right fist, Reinhardt replied to her question while thinking something ominous¡­ ''You bastard¡­ I don''t know who you are, but it''s unfortunate¡­'' ¡­ While dancing with Samantha, his left hand was touching her waist, while his right hand was on her shoulder, he felt like he could sneeze forever from the whispers he was getting behind his back. ''Even though we''re running buddies during early mornings, some people still saw us, and even join us sometimes, but why did you ask me to dance?'' He couldn''t help but expressed a self-deprecatingugh inwardly. He looked at Samantha as he widen his eyes because he didn''t see her lips move¡­ "Telepathy?" ''How did you get such skill this early in the story!'' He wanted to protest but refrained from it as he remembered that she already has a Stigma which is at least a thousand times better than Telepathy skill. She inly answered while Russell extended his right hand, supporting her as she spun while dancing. ''I''m not sure if we''re on Opera or what!'' he couldn''t help but want to dig himself below the ground right now, though he had no choice from the beginning, and just made a justifying reason for epting to dance with her. ''Freya!!! Where are you!!!???" He screamed inside as he took nces from a specific round table; there he saw Freya sitting with Amelie, and Amery, looking at him with an unknown expression, different from her initial shocked expression, but as she understood his older brother''s gaze, she stood up from her seat and approach the dance floor where her older brother is. ¡­ "Hi, may I cut in?" Freya interjected between Samantha and Russell, and as soon Samantha saw her, a frown formed on her face, but she recognized the woman who asked, and asked her back something while still dancing¡­ "Do you two know each other?" "Yes, she''s my younger sister." "Yes, she''s my older brother." The siblings answered almost instantly, causing Samantha to have a nk expression, not knowing what to make with the sudden awkwardness. "Oh¡­ is that so? Okay¡­" She said with a smile as she let go of Russell, letting Freya to take over. "See you on the OTF," Samantha said as she went back to her seat. After a few seconds of silence in the siblings'' atmosphere, Freya started the conversation¡­ "Oppa, could exin what''s going on? Is she the one you talk about that we can befriend at least? She''s the daughter of the Number 1 Ranked ''yer''!" She repressed herself from shouting at her older brother while still feeling myriad emotions. "Well, you heard her¡­ we met on Obelisk Tracking Field (OTF) by chancest week while running there, so we get acquainted¡­ that''s all," he replied, telling his younger sister the truth. "I see¡­" she replied, thinking of something, and as if Russell knew what she was going to say, he decided to say it first¡­ "You coulde, too, you know, it''s just early mornings, like 4:00 A.M." Freya smiled at her older brother''s words while thinking she should also invite Amelie and Amery. "Okay¡­" she said, retaining her smile as the siblings continue to dance. ¡­ 10:30 P.M, one and a half hours passed since the start of the ''Dance Floor'' event. "We would like to thank the following people who contributed greatly to the construction of the great Obelisk Center Hall¡­" On the stage, Vice-Chancellor Dexter Rainfall said words of acknowledgment while the names of great contributors shed on a holographic screen, there names of the Guildmasters of the TOP 5 Guild, and other benefactors were seen. 1. Makoto Amasawa 2. Artorious Hall 3. Queen Eliana von Etherion 4. Queen Rosalin Flora 5. Albert von Obreyon 6. ¡­ 7. ¡­ 8. ¡­ ¡­ ¡­ "Whoa, Anya''s father is a number one contributor!" "They''re rich as hell, you know." ¡­ Various reactions and whispers entered Anya''s ears while sitting on one of the round tables designated for the A-1 ss¡­ "Tsk¡­ Dad¡­" she couldn''t help whether she should admire her Dad or scold him for using too much money on a mere building. "I hope every one of you at least made an acquaintance¡­" As the Vice-Chancellor said that, he looked to where Russell at with a gentle expression on his face, not showing what he was really thinking. ''Stop staring, Sir, I have no choice okay? Okay!? It''s like what I''ve read on different webnovels in my previous life, I''m courting death¡­ unintentionally¡­'' Russell couldn''t help butmpoon inwardly. "Tomorrow is a moment of rest! Thus, no sses will be held tomorrow. This marks the end of the ''Banquet of Obelisk'', thank you for everyone''s participation!" ¡­ Inside Russell Moon''s dorm, thirty minutes after the end of the banquet. Russell slumped down on his bed, seemingly rxed but alert as he thought of something about the novel he wrote in his previous life¡­ ''I know the characteristics of the viins I wrote about¡­'' His thoughts were cut off as he sensed some presence approaching him from the shadows. ''I see¡­ he sure is quick¡­ I wonder how many are there?'' Chapter 40 First Hurdle Most people thought that Obelisk Academy was a safe haven for the students, but that was only applicable when someone was against monsters and beasts who possessed ''Chaos Aura'' within their bodies as the Obelisk Academy possessed artifacts in their arsenals that would exactly pinpoint the location of an unknown intruder in real-time and would gradually weaken them due to various status debuffs, but when the intruder is a human or a race that does not have ''Chaos'' within their bodies, that would be apletely different story. Russell Moon remembered that even since he reincarnated into this world, he hadn''t killed a single person nor seen a person get killed in front of him, but knowing what kind of world this was; where power decides the fate of an individual, he knew he had to resolve himself as this is only the beginning¡­ With his enhanced vision due to the passive effect of one of his skills, ''Eye of Night (EX) which increased his vision by 5 times during the day, while 10 times at night, but it was amplified by one of his titles called ''Resident of Chaos'' which doubles the effect, plus with the perception stat he has, he sensed the iing shadows from afar, with the distance of at least 500 meters, slowly approaching his dorm as there are still people walking on Public Grounds¡­ ''Cautious huh, donning a disguise? They probably won''t kill me... but torture me as a warning¡­ like cutting a limb then heal me again, repeating the cycle¡­ well, the reason why they wouldn''t kill me is probably because of Sir Lyncoster''s Authority, they''d be found out quickly without a doubt.'' [You have equipped the artifact, ''Mask of Night''] Russell recalled the details of the artifact as he checked himself in the mirror without changing his appearance. ¡­ [Mask of Night] One of the treasures hidden in the Chaos Realm that symbolizes the power of night. It was made from unknown materials. Rank: Myth ssification: Artifact Enchantment: Shadow Disguise The user is able to change his/her face and voice along with his/her whole physique. It is the perfect item for disguise as it can only be seen through with the use of Skill or Artifact with the rank of SSS+ or Myth and above respectively. Shadow Encroachment Allows the user to move into shadows, and move faster The Agility increased by 100, and 300 when night time if the user moves through shadows Night Vision The user will see better through the dark, Two-in-One The user has the choice to just wear the mask as it is, or use it as a master disguise. Intrinsic Effect: Upon wearing, Agility increased by 50 Charm increased or decreased depends on the face of disguise the user will copy ¡­ ''This mask design is unique¡­'' He saw the Mask of Night as he wears it, its color was dirty white, with an X symbol that was tilted by 45 degrees in the forehead part. Due to the Enchantment called Shadow Encroachment of the artifact, his Agility increased by 100, and another 50 with its Intrinsic Effects. Intrinsic Effects were achieved depending on what material the artifacts, weapons, and armor were made of. ''200 meters'', he thought as he activated the Night Vision enchantment of the Mask'' He looked outside the window and inspected the Status Windows of the iing intruders with the Skill: Gaze of the Abyss. ''Two D-ranks, One C-rank, probably came from a shadow guild¡­'' One of the ugly settings he created in the novel was that important figures whether main characters or viins inside the Academy have the capacity to bring goons into their shadows, being allowed by the Obelisk Academy with the reason as they''re important figures in the ''yer'' industry, and so on. ''In Reinhardt''s case, he''s the son of one of the main ingredients'' distributors for weapons and armor production in the Obelisk Organization¡­'' ''I''m d they''re only D-ranks and C-rank¡­ I only broke the Stats difference from A-ranks and above¡­ haha,'' he couldn''t help but let out a self-deprecatingugh inwardly. [You have blended into the shadow due to Enchantment: Shadow Encroachment] With the enchantment, Russell Moon''s room seemed like an empty shell, left for a long period of time as if no one was there in the first ce¡­ [You have used the Skill: Absolute Concealment] [You have be invisible] [Your invisibility will be canceled the moment you attack] ''Invisibility and enchantment that let me blend in the shadow¡­ what a fittingbination for something like ''nothingness'' Russell keeps distracting himself as this would be the first time he would encounter such a hurdle¡­ ¡­ Three men with hooded jackets came in from the window of a dormitory Room 393, and one of them, who seemed like the leader signaled the other two to search for any relevant information that would be of use against their target. "Where is he? Rad, check the bathroom¡­" The leader of the goons asked, not feeling that something was amiss with the atmosphere, and without any words, the assassin name Rad went to the dorm''s bathroom only to see that no one was there¡­ "Boss, no one''s here..." said Rad, double-checking the surroundings with his back facing the leader he called ''Boss''. "Boss Reinhardt said we should send him a warning¡­ hey, you, Trash the -" The boss of the intruders didn''t manage to finish his words as he was about to order the other goon who''s looking for possible relevant information as he saw a headless body still standing while the blood was still gushing out from the neck, and an ominous Scythe holding by a man behind the headless body wearing a simple dirty white mask with its only peculiarity was the X titled by 45 degrees on its forehead. "Dan!" One of the goons who checked the bathroom shouted the name of the man whose head flew with a swing of the Scythe, he withdrew his pair of daggers and suddenly jumped on their target without asking for anything, and the one called ''Boss'' also did the same, but as they approached, the target melted in the shadows. ''Is he also a thief?'' The Boss thought as he and Rad also blends in the shadow, but before Rad could do so, his feet were cut off¡­ not by the Scythe that beheaded Dan, but a pair of teeth like a shark that described one of the features of the dark blue slime, emanating a dark blue aura. "AHHH!!!," he screamed as his feet left his body, as if it wasn''t there, while the ''Boss'' saw the abnormal slime, nking his thoughts, not knowing what to do¡­ ''I have to run! I have to report this¡­'' He thought, prioritizing his survival against the unexpected variable they encountered. [Activating Skill: Shadow Slide] Shadow Slide (Lvl. 3) An exclusive ''Thief'' skill that helps the ''yer'' to blend and move in the shadow for a short period of time. Rank: C Cost: 150 Mana Effect: Allows the ''yer'' to blend and move in the shadow for 30 minutes Boss'' whole body blended in the shadow, not having a single trace left, but as he was just about to leave the dorm where a mess happened, he heard the target say something, sending fear within his heart, not knowing what will happen. ¡­ A week before the ''Banquet of Obelisk'', in the Chaos Training Grounds. [You have trained for 120 hours] [Your Skill: Intermediate Scythemanship has reached level 10] [You have acquired the Skill: Advanced Scythemanship (D-)] [Your Skill: Intermediate Swordsmanship has reached level 10] [You have acquired the Skill: Advanced Swordsmanship (D-)] [You have met a ''hidden'' requirement'' as a Mediator of Chaos] [You could sacrifice the Skill: Advanced Swordsmanship and Skill; Advanced Scythemanship to evolve the Skill: Weapon Mastery] [Would you like to sacrifice them?] Russell Moon formed a baffled expression with the unexpected message¡­ ''This is an exclusive condition¡­ rted to my profession as the Mediator of Chaos¡­'' he thought for some time before making an answer. [You have not sacrificed the following skills. The change will not happen] Russell didn''t make a quick decision as he thought that maybe he could be given another chance if his advanced scythe and sword skills reached the ''expert'' level¡­ ''I also realized that skills, stat, and titles rted to my profession have dark blue hue in the System messages or my Status Windows, thus the Weapon Mastery I acquired from losing my swordsmanship profession isn''t a normal skill¡­'' Russell''s concern was his looks if he increases the training time from 1 is to 31 time difference from Earth to Chaos Training Grounds respectively; he''d get suspected by his younger sister if he grew his hair and got a beard all of a sudden that''s why he at most spent 5 hours on Earth, 120 hours on the Chaos Training Grounds; training at least once every two Earth days. He changed from the usual 1 is to 3 time difference to 1 is to 24, wanting to be stronger quicker with the growth rate of 7 times including the Chaos Training Grounds benefits. This includes his catching up to sleep using the benefits of time difference. "My Goddess, are you awake? I have a question to ask¡­" [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' says she is awake] "Great, I wonder if the maximum time difference of the Chaos Training Grounds can be increased?" [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' says to stop asking stupid questions.] [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' goes back to her slumber.] Russell frowned as he saw the System messages, ruminating why he got such a reply from the Goddess. ''I just want to increase the training time in the future!'' ¡­ Three days before the ''Banquet of Obelisk'', in the Chaos Training Grounds. [You have acquired the Skill: Expert Scythemanship] [You have acquired the Skill: Expert Swordsmanship] ¡­ [You have decided to sacrifice the Skill: Expert Scythemanship, and Skill: Expert Swordmanship] [The following skill will be lost] [You have met the ''hidden requirement'' as a Mediator of Chaos] [Your Skill: Weapon Mastery has evolved into another skill] [You have acquired the Skill: Cull and Cut (EX)] ¡­ Thanks to the growth rate increase with the consumption of ''Seed of Chaos'', ''Symbol of Night'', and the Chaos Training Ground benefits, he managed to reach the Expert level of scythemanship and swordsmanship in just a few Earth days, though it''s like a week in the Chaos Training Grounds, and with the seven times growth rate, he felt like he trained for at least two or more months. Russell checked the skill he acquired from sacrificing the expert level scythemanship and swordsmanship¡­ Cull and Cut (Passive) As a Mediator of Chaos, one of the responsibilities you have is to correct the bnce of power in the ''Great Universe''. Rank: EX Effects: - You could wield any weapon of choice, and learn them faster. - Increased efficiency in learning and wielding any weapons by 300% except for Scythes, and Swords which gives the Mediator of Chaos a 400% learning and wielding efficiency. Additional Effects: Cull - When using a Scythe weapon, your strength increased by five times (capped at 4,999 strength) - Culling is not limited to the physical realm. Cut - When using a Sword weapon, your agility increased by five times (capped at 4,999 agility) - Cutting is not limited to the physical realm. ¡­ Seeing the unbelievable description of the Skill: Cull and Cut, Russell couldn''t help but doubt his low Luck stat¡­ ''Is my low Luck a scam?'' Though he was grateful for the skill, he noticed something he was unfamiliar with in the description of the skill. pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m ''One of the Responsibilities I have?'' ¡­ Present Day, as the ''Boss'' was escaping through the shadow... "Cull." Russell Moon''s monotonous voice reverberated inside his dormitory as he muttered the additional effect of the Skill: Cull and Cut (EX), he swung the Scythe downward where ''Boss'' vanished from, and surprisingly, the Scythe that should touch the floor and break it passed through as if a glitch happened, and as soon as Russell took the Scythe out, a body was attached to it, prated by the Scythe from the invader''s chest with his eyes open, devoid of life, but with the look of horror. This night, in Russell Moon''s dormitory, the first hurdle was ovee. Chapter 41 The Best Part In Killing Someone? Twelve midnight, at Gaia Building where A-1 of third-year students reside. Inside an ostentatious room, a man was seating on adderback chair on the balcony, showing the privileges that A-1 students have from first to third year, as well as, daughters and sons of the tycoons in the ''yer'' industry. The man asked the woman, sitting across him while his feet were ced on the empty brown table. "Haven''t theye back yet? That matter should only take a while¡­" The woman with blood-colored eyes and red hair replied with a tone of amusement, "They''re dead." The man with blonde hair and reddish eyes who cannot process what he just heard, asked again the woman to make sure he hadn''t heard wrong. "What did you just say, Ruina?" Ruina, the woman with blood-colored eyes, frowned at the question, and just replied monotonously. "Your goons were dead, Rein." "Hahahahahahaha! HAHAHAHAHAHA!" The man, Reinhardtughed as if he found her words a joke, and told her his thoughts. "Didn''t you just say earlier that he''s an F rank? You know very well that he''s a trash among trashes." "Yes, based on what I saw on his Status Window, he''s merely an F rank. Why don''t you consider his rtionship with Samantha whatever it is? Maybe he got some shadows protecting him without his knowledge." She replied while a maidservant serving Reinhardt brought some Obel Wine; a wine famous for its origin which is the Oli fruit from the country ''Etheria''. Reinhardt who put down his feet from the table, took the ss of wine as the maidservant left knowing her ce, and drank a mouthful of it before looking at Ruina with a cold expression. "You better choose your words." Ruina just shrugged his words, and also took a sip of the Obel Wine, not minding whatever Reinhardt said. ''I need to entice Samantha¡­ or else my Father''s n will go awry¡­'' he thought as he remembered his father''s words. ''Rein, you must bring Samantha to our side¡­ and we will use her against her father.'' After a few seconds of silence, Ruina spoke, "Well, there''s always a next time¡­" After deliberating for some time, Reinhardt asked a question, "Was your skill also monitors the target''s vital status?" Before Reinhardtmanded the three goons, Ruina used a skill on them that will let her track their location, though, with her words about the goons'' deaths, Rein came up with the idea that it was more than just a tracking skill. "Yes, Red Thread (B+) is that kind of skill, aside from being considered as a tracking skill, it''s more like a psyche-type skill as I could feel their emotions, thus if it vanished, it could only mean two things, they''re either dead, or the skill was dispelled. The former was more like the case for your goons, if they have done their jobs, they should probably be here earlier than now." ''She has a point, but why would a mere F rank get the attention of Samantha?'' He questioned while he gritted his teeth, and unconsciously clenched his fists as he put down the ss with the Obel Wine then he looked at the starry night sky with a bluish moon emanating its light, covering thend. ¡­ Room 393, Russell Moon''s Dorm, Andromeda Building. Russell couldn''t help but felt nauseous at the sight of a headless body, a body that was thrust by a de of the Scythe weapon, and a man who bled to death with his feet mutted by Ceru, the Chaos Slime. "What a mess¡­" he muttered in the quiet dorm. Thankfully, the dorm was quite spacious regarding not being an A-1 student, though its looks right now was a bloody one, and a total mess, as he fought the three intruders, he heard various System notifications, but he didn''t have the leisure to check them that time as it would be considered detrimental to him, but now, with some leeway, and unconcerned Russell, he checked the stream of System messages. [Your Trait: Nihility haspletely concealed your Chaos Aura] Based on his understanding, the weapons and armor he acquired from the Ancient Treasure Chest that the Goddess of Night has given him exude ''Chaos Aura'' continuously, but as he checked the messages from the System, he found something new to his sight¡­ [Your Trait: Nihility haspletely concealed the sounds of your surroundings] ''This trait is a mysterious one, but I should probably study how it totally works'' he said inwardly, not knowing what he should make of it, but inside he was grateful that he hadn''t caused amotion. "Now, what should I do with this mess?" As he asked that question in the air, he looked at Ceru from the side where the man who bled to death was lying, and Russell almost puke as he saw Ceru looking at him as if awaiting for its master''s order. With that, he remembered the unique skill that Ceru have¡­ ''Predation!'' "Ceru, I don''t know about your Predation skill, but could you clean the mess?" Ceru, the Chaos Slime, who bounces slowly proceeded with the order as if it had been waiting for it for quite some time. [Your Summon: ''Ceru'' has used the Unique Skill: Predation] Contrary to Russell''s expectation of what Predation looked like, Ceru''s mouth became open wide revealing its shark-like teeth, and a ck hole-like throat that does not contain any light, then it sucked the three dead bodies, including the blood as if it became its beverage. ''I just it could only be used in the dead bodies¡­'' Russell thought, managing himself from throwing up from the bloody sight. [Due to the effects of the Skill: Predation, Ceru has gained 2 Strength stat] [Due to the effects of the Skill: Predation, Ceru has gained 3 Agility stat] [Due to the effects of the Skill: Predation, Ceru has gained 5 Agility stat] The System messages reminded Russell of one of the effects of the Unique Skill: Predation. "I guess the 1 percent chance to gain a skill was too much¡­" [The items belonging to the human named: Rad Collins have been transferred to your inventory.] [The items belonging to the human named: Dan Oliver have been transferred to your inventory.] [The items belonging to the human named: Murock Smith have been transferred to your inventory.] ''Oh, I forgot about this¡­ the System was designed in a way where the items inside the Dimensional Inventory would be transferred to the person who killed another¡­] As he checked the items he got from killing the three intruders named Rad, Dan, and Murock, which was called the ''Boss'' by the other two, a smile formed on his face as he thought¡­ ''The best part in killing someone¡­ is the loot!'' he said inwardly as he continued on his various thoughts after he organized the messy dorm that got cleaned up by an alien slime. ''At least in this kind of world.'' ¡­ Room 26, Freya Moon''s Dormitory, Rigel Building. Laying on her bed, Freya thought about what happened tonight, especially her ssmate who approached his older brother¡­ ''Not just any ssmate, but she''s the daughter of the number 1 ''yer'' in the human domain¡­ Also, the strange thing was that it happened this same day as Oppa told us earlier that we can at least befriend one of them¡­ Was it a coincidence? I''ll ask Oppa about that soon¡­'' As her thoughts gradually rxed, she proceeded to sleep, expecting something for tomorrow''s suspended ss. ¡­ Room 27, Amery Blight''s Dormitory, Rigel Building A room with almost no exquisite design, matching the atmosphere of the one who resides within, Amery Blight who was sitting on the side of her bed, looking outside the window thought to herself¡­ ''I need to be stronger¡­'' As she was thinking about various things, she took a ss of alcoholic wine that was ced on her desk beside the bed and took a sip of it. "Russell Moon¡­" she muttered the name of someone who was disrupting her thoughtstely though unintentional to the other party as she found him mysterious, and she felt that he was hiding many secrets. ¡­ Room 31, Amelie Rose Merveil''s Dormitory, Rigel Building A room with an exquisite design meant for a woman, matching the person''s personality and atmosphere¡­ at least on the outside¡­ Amelie Rose, who was sitting on a couch with her feet on it, has her face covered with her knees as she hugged them and a sob was heard inside the room with no one aside from her. As someone who was thrown away from her home for quite a long time ago, she lived alone and fed herself with the profit she got from her work. ''I don''t want to live like this anymore¡­'', she thought,menting about her situation that she found unfair even though she managed to pass and enrolled in the Obelisk Academy. Her tears flowed down from her face, sliding down from her thighs, reaching the ground, then for a few seconds¡­ her tears crystallized making teardrop shapes, but with ck color. [A certain Constetion is looking at you.] Chapter 42 Sudden Visit The next day, after the ''Banquet of Obelisk'', at the Obelisk Tracking Field The sunlight illuminated the surroundings that gave warmth to the students on the tracking field as every one of them do their own business. Although the sunlight provided warmth to every student, it was not scorching enough to burn one''s skin. A certain group met on the tracking field afterst night''s agreement; Russell, Freya, Amery, and Amelie came to do some exercises and train their bodies, especially under the heat of the scorching Sun. ''This heat is considered child''s y whenpared in Bhaskara¡­'' Russell thought as he remembered the ''Desert'' country on the southern part of the Orion Continent. ''Come to think of it¡­ Murock Smith¡­ the attackerst night came from Bhaskan origins based on his name. I am not sure about the other two, but it doesn''t matter right now,'' Russell thought, remembering the sight of Ceru using the Unique Skill: Predation as he felt like bing nauseous again. "Oppa, Samantha wasn''t here, didn''t you invite her?" Freya, who was sitting beside her older brother asked with a sarcastic tone. Russell put on a forced smile on his expression as he replied to his younger sister. "On one hand, I met her here for the first time coincidentally. On the other hand, I am not crazy enough to invite her." ''I knew she oftenes here sporadically, but I never expected to meet her here that time¡­'' Russellmpooned, as he remembered the first time she encountered Samantha, also the derivation of what he knew based on information he got on her Status Window. As Russell thought about such matters, the other two; Amery, and Amelie approached them as they just finished running for some time, and took a seat beside Freya while catching their own breathes as the bench was wide enough that it could amodate at least 10 people. "Amelie, what happened?" Freya asked as she was curious since earlier they met here on the Obelisk Tracking Field because Amelie''s eyes had signs of someone who just criedst night. While Freya asked the question, Amelie just smiled as she don''t know what she should reply at the moment, and Russell who looked at Amelie made a puzzled expression as he thought of some mundane guesses. ? ''Was it the usual afterparty emotion when a person will experience nostalgia as she separated from her friends?'' Russell remembered in his previous life before he became a shut-in stock trader that friend gatherings always produced euphoria, but after everyone went to their separate ways, they would be engulfed with poignant or mncholic emotion. As he thought about the reason, a gloomy look appeared on Amelie''s face, seemingly cannot hold herself to cry, but she looked away from them. ''She''s a soft-hearted person¡­'' Russell made a guess as he continue the flow of his thoughts¡­ ''But a soft-hearted person¡­ when forced into a corner would only take a step into somewhere she wouldn''t walk away from¡­'' "Hey, Amelie, if you can''t tell ask now, I hope you will be able to¡­ Okay." Freya said with an evident expression of concern on her face and tone, while Amery was just maintaining her usual aloof atmosphere while taking nces at Russell. ''Why are you always ring at me like that!'' He wanted to shout at her face but refrained from the rude act as her younger sister would probably elbow him, then he as thinking about Amery, and took a gulp of water from his water bottle; Amelie Rose asked a sudden, unexpected question that threw him off-guard. "Last night, a Constetion looked at me, but its name wasn''t on the System message." "Cough! Cough! Cough! Ehem ehem!" Russell almost choked with water with the sudden question, prompting Freya, Amery, and Amelie to look at him with a deadpan expression, as if the momentum just now be broken. "What''s wrong, Oppa? Are you okay?" Freya asked who became worried, thinking that his older brother might be sick, but she remembered that was impossible in these present times aside from mana-rted sickness. "Ehem¡­ Yes, I''m okay, haha¡­ hahahaha¡­" Russell replied with augh as he''s scratching his head. The trio''s initial expression turned into a suspicious gaze against him. "Do you know something about it, Russell?" Amelie asked with a pair of eyes full of expectation and curiosity, and as Russell was thinking of something, Freya voiced her thoughts. "Strange, isn''t the normal System message would mention the Constetion''s name?" "Right,st night while¡­" Amelie paused her words as she remembered herself crying then continued after sheposed her mind. "The System messagest night was only one¡­ after that nothing followed up." She recalled the strange System message as she couldn''t make a guess of it, while the usual quiet Amery Blight spoke with an aloof tone. "That just means the message or Constetion was not normal." Russell nearly face-palmed himself with her words¡­ ''Nice deduction! Why didn''t we think of that?'' He couldn''t help butmpoon inwardly. But her next words caused him to form a frowned expression¡­ "Right, Russell?" ''What the hell is wrong with this woman? Why asked me?'' Russell barely repressed himself from blurting such words to appearposed on the outside, then he made a reply with his honest thoughts. "Yes, it''s definitely not normal. Well, considering the lessons we always encountered during sses, we often heard professors saying the phrase, ''We were not exactly sure yet''." Russell subconsciously looked at the afternoon sky as he said his thoughts, though he couldn''t see the vastness of space. Suddenly, he heard a System notification, prompting him to look on his left side, under the scrutinizing gaze of the trio. [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', says that one of her subordinates took an interest in an individual named: Amelie Rose Merveil, and asked her for permission to groom the target ''yer''] He didn''t know what reactions he should make as he read the System message, but the trio sensed that he got a notification from the System just now, though the holographic screen was personal and cannot be seen in the air aside from the System''s message recipient, one could still guess if the person received a message with bodynguage. ''Goddess, this timing is too untimely.'' Russell frowned, but he became curious about the System message''s content as he looked to Amelie Rose while using the Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX) as he thought about what would garner the interest of one of the subordinates of the Goddess of Night. He remembered from his novel setting that only the Primordial Goddess of Night, daughter of Chaos itself could make such a System message appear where the Constetion''s ''Cosmic Title'' was hidden, meaning thatst night it was the Goddess of Night who checked Amelie Rose whom her subordinate took an interest in. [Activating Skill: Gaze of the Abyss] [You have chosen to inspect the ''Simplified Status Window'' of the ''Target''] AMELIE ROSE MERVEIL Title: NONE Health Points (HP): ¡­ Mana Points (MP): ¡­ Stamina Points (SP): ¡­ Age: 16 (Earth Years) Sex: Female Height: 167 cm Rank: E Profession: Dark Healer Constetion: NONE ¡­ Russell remembered the three kinds of Status Windows; Simplified which only focused on the personal profile, as well as Profession and Constetion name, while the Standard included the person''s stats, andstly, the Detailed where everything can be seen such as regeneration rate of the person. Five minutes passed as the trio continued to exchange opinions about the matter, letting Russell finished his business of looking at System messages as it was not an umon thing, but what made it suspicious from the trio''s perspective was the timing of the System message''s arrival. ''Goddess, your timing is really bad, I can''t interject in their conversation right now!'' Just as he thought about it, he also became curious about Amery Blight''s profession, this he used the same skill to check her Status Window in simplified form. ''Blood Swordsman?'' Russell almost lost hisposure as he was familiar with the ss¡­ because it was good at murdering others! It was like a Berserker ss, but moreposed, cold, calctive, and not hot-headed. But after some time, he organized his thoughts and just decided to ruminate about some things when he is alone. ''Nothing beats a shut-in in his past life when ites to thinking alone.'' Hempooned as he understood the interest of the Goddess of Night''s subordinate with Amelie Rose¡­ ''Dark Healer'' ¡­ "Right, Russell?" Amery asked him as she was sizing him up, but she heard an unexpected reply. "Yes, it''s definitely not normal. Well, considering the lessons we always encountered during sses, we often heard professors saying the phrase, ''We were not exactly sure yet''." ''He''s got a point, but my instincts are telling me that you are hiding something¡­'' Amery thought inwardly as she was bad at expressing her full thoughts about just every matter. ''I really suck at exining things with words!'' She thought as she saw Russell frowning slightly. She remembered her parents told her something¡­ "Do not force out a mystery, but if you ever felt prying with something based on your instincts¡­ be prepared with your life and regret as some things are not worth knowing for. "Alright, how about another story?" "Yes, Mother!" The younger Amery replied with a cheerful expression, aplete contrast with her current self. Her mood became gloomy as she remembered the past when her parents were still alive. ¡­ Room 26, Freya Moon''s Dormitory, Rigel Building The evening after their dinner, everyone separated ways, but it was more like Russell who alone just got separated as she, Amery, and Amelie Rose were residing in the same building. The woman with deep blue eyes and deep ck hair, Freya Moon sat on the couch beside her bed as she turn on the television and hugged a pillow of small size, but the words from the news do not register in her ears as she ruminated about the conversation they had in the Obelisk Tracking Field earlier afternoon because based on her older brother''s reaction with Amelie Rose''s words, she knew in her mind that her older brother knew something about the System message where a Constetion''s name wasn''t specified. Freya suddenly thought of them when they were younger¡­ ''Oppa, at first was a shy person like out of instinct¡­ he didn''t want to talk with other people, but with Mom and Dad''s persuasion, he managed to change¡­ ''Our family back then was so poor that we couldn''t eat three times a day, but in recent years, Mom and Dad got a stable job¡­ and Oppa liked reading newspapers, taking interest in daily news¡­ ''Although I find nothing strange with Oppa''s mature behavior as he showed his affection towards me, Mom, and Dad¡­ I just hope the secret he will tell me on my uing birthday in a few months is everything, and nothing to be left out.'' Freya turned mncholic as she hugged her knees, ignoring the television in front of her. ¡­ Room 31, Amelie Rose Merveil''s Dormitory, Rigel Building Amelie Rose who just got separated from Freya and Amery inside the Rigel Building slumped down on her bed as she found it tiring what happened today, both physically and mentally. "Should I tell them? "Will they avoid me if theye to know of my predicament? "It was just been a few weeks since the sses started¡­ can I really trust them? Various thoughts flooded out of her mouth as she looked at the white ceiling of her dormitory, admiring its cleanliness and design, making her fall asleep unconsciously. ¡­ 12:01 AM, in the same dorm room, Amelie Rose woke up as she heard a sound near hering from a mechanical object as if some news were being delivered. "Are you awake?" The voice entered her ears that cleared her trance-like state as if she became instantly sober, she reflexively took out from her Dimensional Inventory a ck staff with an ''eye'' design on its tip, but before she could cast a necessary defensive spell for the possible iing attack, she recognized the owner of the voice as she asked in wonder with a shocked expression on her face. "Russell!?" Chapter 43 Goddess Command Room 393, Russell Moon''s Dormitory, after dinner at Obelisk Cafeteria One He slumped down on his bed after some rest while thinking about what happened today, as well as Amery Blight''s behavior towards him¡­ ''She''s a Blood Swordsman, but I couldn''t sense extraordinary yet¡­ maybe because her Unique Skill is still locked¡­ I also remember thest time I inspected her was due to Goddess''mand to keep an eye on her, that time her profession was still just ''Swordsman'', how did it change quickly?'' Russell Moon ruminated about such circumstances as he made some guesses; first, it has to do with why the Goddess'' told me to keep an eye on her, second, she fulfilled some conditions like¡­ [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' invoked one of the hidden effects of the ''Symbol of Night''] With the sound of the System notification, Russell was prompted to look at it, forgetting what he thought just now. [Directmunication with her contractee is made possible with the Skill: Cosmic Telepathy] As soon as he read the System messages, Russell got goosebumps all over his body as he reflexively sat on his bed. Although he couldn''t see where she is, he clearly heard her gentle with a mix of overbearing voice in his head, and just as he was thinking of something to say, a thought struck him. ''I don''t know how to reply!'' His initial shocked reaction from the sudden System messages and Goddess'' voice vanished, turning into an embarrassment. As though the Goddess heard his thoughts, a chuckle entered his ears, then the Goddess said: Russell, who didn''t have any idea what the Goddess was talking about aside from the symbol he was given, just did what the Goddess said. Closing his eyes to focus, he felt the quietness of the night, then his own heartbeat was felt across his body as though he was palpitating, but with an inexplicable feeling, then with the System''s notification and message, he looked at the holographic screen presented to him: [Automatically Activating the Skill: Eye of Night (EX)] [You have discovered your ''Hidden Nature''] Russell didn''t know what reactions he should make as his eyes emanated a dark blue aura representing Chaos, but at the same time it was concealed by his Nihility trait, then he saw his own heart as he looked at his chest, it has a symbol of X tilted by 45 degrees from the right, representing ''Night'' itself. ''I felt like developing trust issues with the System¡­'' He thought because the skills he got bing a Mediator of Chaos were more than what the descriptions of the System show¡­ ''Or maybe I''m just stupid not to know... clearly the hidden nature of someone was not limited to hidden emotions...'' He inferred inwardly as he replied to the Goddess of Night with a more clear voice than speaking within his mind. ''This feeling is certainly strange, I felt like I''m also using the Cosmic Telepathy skill, and felt like my mind was split into two.'' When he heard the Goddess''mand, his thoughts became nk, not knowing how he should express his opinions or if he ever have the right to say something, but in the end, he heed hermand, replying to her with a servile tone. ¡­ Room 31 of the Rigel Building, Present "Russell!?" "What are you doing here? How did you get in here?" As Amelie Rose''s mind became flooded with various questions, she maintained her alertness with the sudden intrusion especially in the middle of the night, still holding her ck staff with an ''eye'' on its tip. ''Why is he here?'' ''How did he get in? There''s 24/7 security in every building and much tight in the Rigel Building.'' Her heart keeps beating and beating faster as she heard Russell say with an amiable tone as he raised his both hands, signaling that he meant no harm. "Calm down, can you sit?" "What do you want?" Amelie asked, remaining alert despite the amiable demeanor Russell showed, then she heard a sigh, then herplexion turned pale as his next words entered her ears, and registered on her mind. "How was your ''business''?" "Wh-what are you ta-talking about?" Her voice cracked instantly as numerous memories suddenly flooded her mind, remembering her predicament; how she got banished from her home, how she lived on the streets for some time, and how she got engaged with a certain business to provide for herself, then managing to enter the Obelisk Academy. Russell who was listening, not on her question itself, but on how she delivered her words with a crumbling voice made him feel pity towards her, and inexplicable guilt towards himself. He turned off the television, stood up from the couch where he was sitting, then suddenly looked her in the eyes as he made his reply. "Dark Tears." "H-how?" Amelie Rose who heard the two words that came out of Russell''s mouth instantly fell to her knees as the ck staff that she was holding left her grip, and suddenly she repeatedly mumble something in her weak tone. "I''m sorry¡­ I''m sorry¡­ I just did it to survive¡­" "I d-d-don''t meant for them to die¡­ N-no, maybe I do¡­ b-but, I have n-no choice¡­" As she released her inner thoughts, both of her hands covered her beautiful face as her tears that were colored ck flowed down from her reddish-colored eyes, and Russell who saw it from the side thought, ''What a f*cked up world'', as he was reminded again that reality was entirely different from the novel he wrote in his previous life. With the cold breeze entering from the window, Russell approached Amelie Rose whose ck tears that touched the ground crystallized, making teardrop shapes. He genuflected in front of her to level her with her fallen knees, then covered her with a nket he grabbed from the couch where he was seated. "Have you calmed down now?" Amelie Rose looked up and saw the pair of deep blue eyes that seemed to pierce the deepness of her soul as if they matched the mystery of the endless sky. Russell then stood up, extended his right hand, and helped her stand up as both of them sat on thefortable couch beside her bed. And when Russell felt like she calmed down now, he went straight to the point on what he came here for. "I want to talk about the System message you got." He said while looking at the crystallized ck tears on the floor. "D-do you know what th-that means?" She mustered the courage to ask as she felt relieved somehow in an inexplicable sense. "To be honest, that was my Constetion," Russell replied with honesty, not holding back information as per the Goddess''mand. Amelie Rose who heard it seemed to forget what happened just now as she processed what he just said. She knew that Constetions could pick their desired Champions even outside the Obelisk Academy, but most of them were among adventurers. Also, they took interest in ''yers'' within any academies including Obelisk as if they had an unwritten rule of selecting a Champion inside the academies where students or ''yers'' were nurtured properly. ''Although it''smon to gain an interest anytime as an academy student¡­ h-he clearly said, ''My Constetion'''' She cleared her thoughts as she asked with curious eyes, "But why his or her name wasn''t mentioned in the System message?" Russell, who was respecting her question replied with a rxed tone. "That''s not something I couldn''t tell you, at least not now. By the way, I was ordered by my Constetion regarding you." "Regarding me?" Amelie had an evident puzzled expression on her face. "Yes, a subordinate of hers wanted to groom you. It''s an opportunity it won''te even in a hundred years or more." He let out his thoughts that felt like an exaggeration, but in reality, it was not because Russell presumed that the Goddess'' subordinate was not someone trivial considering her ''Status''. "Hold on¡­ but why me?" Although, it''s a great thing to get contracted with a Constetion, especially with a good nature, and not evil, confusion still filled her heart as she said within herself, ''I''m a sinner.'' "It''s because you are a Dark Healer." Amelie Rose who experienced an initial shock with the words ''Dark Tears'' asked him as she manage to remainposed this time. "Do you have a ''Status'' Appraisal Skill?" "Yes, but that''s not what''s important. What''s important is your permission." Russell who answered her took a biscuit sold in the Obelisk One Cafeteria from his Dimensional Inventory, and took a bite of it, as he felt hungry while waiting for her reply. Amelie watched silently, and ruminated about what he said¡­ ''I was abandoned, treated like a trash¡­ ''I was on my own for some time¡­ ''I begged in the streets¡­ and¡­ ''I killed¡­ and still killing people at this moment¡­ ''I need a new path¡­ ''I need one who could guide me¡­ ''I don''t want to be truly evil¡­'' Amelie Rose Merveil resolved to take a new path for herself, though she couldn''t revive the people she already killed with ambiguous intent¡­ ''I am not a hypocrite¡­ I will still kill to survive if I get threatened. "Please, guide me, Russell." Russell heard her plea as he saw in her eyes her resolve, a smile carved on his lips as he remembered the orders from her Goddess. 1. Persuade her by any means. 2. Give her a ''Chaos Trait'' using your own power to make her yourpanion. 3. Bring her to the Chaos Training Grounds. 4. Wait for my subordinate''s arrival at that ce. When Russell first heard themand, his mind went nk, but when he thought about it, ''The Goddess wouldn''t be unreasonable'', he abandoned any unnecessary thoughts, and heed hermand. "Alright, I need your trust, and remember there is no going back.'' He reminded. "Okay¡­" Amelie replied without any idea what to expect next, but readied herself for whatever was gonna happen. Russell stood up from the couch and face her while maintaining a certain distance; both his right and left index fingers formed a tilted ''X'' of 45 degrees from the right, then a notification from the System entered their ears. [Activating Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX)] [Proceed in giving ''Chaos Trait'' with the designated ''Target''] [Yes or No] It was the messages received by Russell. [The Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX) has been used on you] [You are being given: ''Chaos Trait''] [ept or Decline] It was the messages received by Amelie. Amelie thought first about the name of the skill, as well as its ssification as ''unique'', but as she resolved herself, she epted it. Then at that moment, Chaos Aura seeped out from Russell''s body as his heart glowed with a dark blue hue that could be seen by both him and Amelie. The Chaos Aura then enveloped her whole being; body, and soul as she felt sleepy, but before she closed her eyes, she managed to read the messages the System sent. [Chaos Aura is seeping within your body and soul] [Body and soul reconstruction is requiring you to take a ''Slumber''] [Duration: 8 hours] ¡­ Russell Moon who used the Chaos Buff (EX) for the first time was filled with wonder as hey down Amelie on her bed, then he sat on the couch beside her, crunching the biscuits in his mouth silently. ''I guess I''d be absent tomorrow¡­ it''s not a problem for me, but for her as an A-1 student, she needed a reasonable excuse, and sickness is a big ''No'''' He felt tired with the process, then he looked at the gigantic illusory tilted ''X'' by 45 degrees on the right ovepping Amelie''s whole body. It''s like assimting with her. pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m ''I''d be a guard for the whole night.'' He thought, as he looked at the wall clock ced just above the television as he muttered the time as he slumped on the couch. "1:34 AM" Chapter 44 A Sign Of Great Change (1) 9:40 AM, in Room 31, Rigel Building Russell, who guarded Amelie Rose the whole night, prepared some breakfast such as bacon sandwiches while waiting for Amelie to wake up because even though it was more than 8 hours that passed, she hasn''t woken up yet from her short slumber. ''It''s too convenient to have a personal kitchen in your own dorm...'' Russellmpooned, but he felt grateful with the stocks of food on Amelie''s refrigerator where he got the bacon then cooked it on a dual stove beside the refrigerator. ''Although every dorm room has its personal kitchen, it''s really different when ites from A-1 dorm, they gave free stuff¡­'' Russell thought as he ced the bacon sandwiches on the ss rectangr table situated between thefortable couch, and bed where Amelie was still sleeping. Throughout the night, guarding her, Russell saw the ''Body and Soul Reconstruction'' process she undertook, it was his first time to see something like that personally sinceing into this world. Amelie''s body cracked as if they became puzzle pieces, though he didn''t see how her soul itself had undergone the process, he still felt an inexplicable sense of wonder. And exactly 9:34 AM, Russell got the notification that the ''Body and Soul Reconstruction'' was a sess¡­ ''I don''t want to imagine what it would look like if it got interrupted,'' he couldn''t help but let out a self-deprecating sigh as he remembered that he cannot take with him a person without ''Chaos Trait'' in the Chaos Training Grounds where it would be safer to do such process without any worries. Among the notifications he got was the unexpected message that told him the benefits upon thepletion process as he checked again the details of his Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX) Chaos Buff (Lvl. MAX)(Amplified) Rank: EX Cost: 0 CM Grants "Chaos" trait to the designated target. "Chaos" Effect: - Permanently increased all stat except for the charm and luck stat. - The stat increase is proportional to the Chaos Power of the user. - Limit number of targets: 0/11(+11) - You cannot change the one you have granted "Chaos" unless the target dies. But as he read through the skill details that were amplified by his ''Resident of Chaos'' title; his expression turned into an inexplicable one as he didn''t know whether he should be happy or not at the same time because apart from unexpectedly gaining stats; he was reminded that his Chaos-rted skills have hidden effects, and he thought that maybe it''s not because of having the Chaos Trait itself, but rather being a Mediator of Chaos. He browsed again through the pile of System messages as he took a bite of bacon sandwich from one of the tes he prepared. [The Body and Soul Reconstruction of the ''Target'' has beenpleted] [The ''Target''s'' overall stats aside from Charm and Luck increased by 50% with the proportion of your Chaos Power] [Your overall stats increased by 20% with the proportion of the 50% overall stats the ''Target'' gained] [Your overall stats increased by 30 with the exception of Charm, Luck, and Chaos Power] [Telepathic Communication can be done at the Mediator''s Will] [Remaining Limit of Targets: 1/22] [The list of ''Targets'' whom you have given the ''Chaos Trait'' can be browsed] ¡­ Russell was d about the increase in overall stats, but his Chaos Power stat wasn''t affected by the increasing effect, prompting him to feel slightly dejected. ''So, it was originally 25% stats given, but it was enhanced due to my ''Resident of Chaos'' title¡­ and Amelie has an overall stats increase of 150 based on the 30 overall stats I got which is the 20% of 150¡­ I wonder what will be her reaction¡­ hahaha¡­'' Russell silently let out a self-deprecatingugh inwardly which was cut off by a woman''s voice beside him. "Russell?" "Good morning, how do you feel?" Russell asked as he passed one of the tes on the ssy rectangr table near Amelie, silently telling her to take her breakfast. Amelie, who just woke up was bombarded by System notification, but she set aside it first to converse with the one who guarded her all night. "I''m fine¡­ to be honest, I feel light¡­ I can''t exin it." She replied as she grabbed the bacon sandwich from the te that Russell passed near her, then took a light bite of it. "Is that so, that''s good. By the way, quicklye up with an excuse." Russell said, not hinting to Amelie that they were absent from their own sses as she was in a state of stupor, forgetting it was Friday. "Excuse? What do you mean?" Amelie, who seemed not totally awake asked in a curious manner. "It is not a problem for me¡­ but for you, an A-1 student... it''s different." Russell said in a semi-serious tone, but inside he felt likeughing as the more serious he sounds, the more Amelie felt lost as she just woke up. Amelie, who realized that it was not weekend right now widened her eyes as she was prompted to look at the wall clock attached to the wall, hanging above the television at least 1.5 meters apart. "10:01 AM¡­" ''I missed a P.E ss!'' She screamed inwardly in a way that normal women do in terms of having a shocked expression. ''Very unlike of the one who criedst night,'' Russell thought. "Alright, I have to go¡­ By the way, can you tell me about it?" He asked while thinking about the ''Dark Tears'', and looked at the crystallized ck-colored tears on the ground that he didn''t touch. Amelie looked at him, then on the floor as she sat on her bed, and replied in aposed manner, "Okay¡­ but how will go bac-" She didn''t manage to finish her words as she saw Russell put on a simple dirty white mask with a tilted ''X'' by 45 degrees on the right on the mask''s forehead, then his figure vanished, blending into shadow. "Ah¡­" Amelie put on a nk expression with what she witnessed, but manage to arrange her thoughts. ''Okay, that''s how he got in here¡­'' She thought as she went to the bathroom, and washed herself while remembering the time of being absent and the possibility of beingte. ¡­ 10:10 AM, at A-11 ssroom of First-Years "He isn''t here, he''s absent." Said by a woman with long blonde hair, sapphire-like eyes, and a height of 166 cm. Freya Moon, who heard her answer formed an inexplicable expression as she thought, ''What? Oppa was absent? Why?'' "But maybe he will take the next ss, you know¡­" "Okay, Mira, thank you, by the way, will you go to the cafeteria?" Freya asked casually, but on the inside, her thoughts were clouded. ''Amelie was absent, too. Was it a coincidence? Did they sle-'' Before thepletion of a dangerous thought surfaced in her mind, a womanly voice entered her ears, prompting her to look at the owner of the voice. "Let''s go." The aloof Amery Blight said who came with Freya to check on her older brother as they went together with Mira along with Lyn, another woman, and a man. These people became acquainted during the ''Banquet of Obelisk.'' ¡­ Room 393, Russell Moon''s Dormitory, Andromeda Building Russell, who just got back from his mission that the Goddess gave him slumped down on his bed. ''Should I not go to the next ss? Yes, Freya will suspect something if I go to ss¡­ Perhaps she already suspects something, but if I go and Amelie Rose to ss at almost the same time, though different ssrooms, it will still be suspicious¡­'' ''Don''t worry younger sister¡­I just hope you won''t punch me because you weren''t the first one to know about my situation¡­'' Russellmpooned as he realized such things, but as he remembered something, he reflexively sat up on his bed and scream in his mind¡­ ''Dice of Chaos! I need a skill¡­ the necessary skill for that one event in the future¡­'' A wicked smile formed on his lips as he remembered the ''Ranking Exchange Battle''. This will be the third time that Russell will use it; First time was when a die slipped off his hands, giving him the Crystal Key which hebined with the other three Keys with the use of Jar of Nothingness; the second time was a day or two away from the start of the ss, giving him a ''certain sword'' that he decided to give to Freya, his younger sister on her uing birthday on October. ''I need a skill¡­'' he thought as he ced his hope on his rotten Luck which took a leap from 7 stat points to 9 stat points. Russell checked again the ''Dice of Chaos'' details: [Dice of Chaos] The three dice which the [Night of Primordial Chaos] created out of boredom. The materials used in its creation are unknown. Rank: Ancient ssification: Misceneous Condition of Use: - Mediator of Chaos profession - Once every 15 days Throwing Effects: 1. Throwing the dice in the ground will give the yer random items depending on the yer''s Luck 2. The rank of the item will also be random 3. Throwing three dice at the same time will give the yer a random weapon, armor, or crafting material 4. Throwing two dice at the same time will give the yer a random Skillbook and Consumable items 5. Throwing a die will give the yer a Misceneous item ¡­ "Okay, two dice¡­" Russell hold the two dice tightly as the remaining one was stored back on his Dimensional Inventory to prevent any mishap. "Here goes nothing¡­" He muttered as he threw the two dice on the floor. ''I wonder if the number of total points on top means something¡­ like a rank indicator of the item I will get? Because there''s no such description on the Dice of Chaos itself.'' Russell thought as he questioned his trust in the System messages regarding past events. The two dicended on the floor having a total points of 5 as he was reminded again of the System regarding his Nihility trait that concealed the Chaos Aura of surroundings, within him, and the objects he possessed. [You have thrown the ''Dice of Chaos''] [You have thrown two dice of the ''Dice of Chaos''] [You will be given a Consumable or Skillbook item] [An unexpected interruption urs!] [You have been blessed by the ''Egg???'' due to your achievement!] [The Mediator''s inner desire has been granted!] [You have received the Skillbook: Void Acupuncture] [The ''Egg???'' wriggles happily in the ''Nothingness''] [The ''Egg???'' hatch rate increased by 0.001%] ¡­ ¡­ ... The two dice wriggled and a dark blue aura coagted forming the Skillbook as the two dice went inside the Dimensional Inventory as if they were an animated item. But his thought turned nk as he read the notification, and felt the Egg???''s presence inside the Dimensional Inventory. He ruminated about the System messages, especially about the achievement, and after some time he made a guess as he muttered in the air his thoughts. "Is it because I granted Amelie the Chaos Trait?" [The ''Egg???'' nods] [The ''Egg???'' goes back to its slumber] Russell''s thoughts were jumbled, but he felt great horror with other System messages just now¡­ because it wasn''t only him that probably received it. He read the System message as his scalp drenched in a cold sweat. [World Announcement! Some True Ancient Constetions have sensed a mysterious presence in the Earth''] ... [World Announcement! Some True Ancient Constetions went back to their slumber as the mysterious presence instantly vanished, wondering if they were mistaken] With his emotions calming down from the unexpected announcement, and the barrage of notifications telling him about the triggered Nihility Trait Russell thought, ''This was not in the novel I''ve written in my previous life.'' ¡­ More than 3,000 KM away from the Orion Continent, Elnira Kingdom A beautiful young-looking woman with long yellowish hair that was like the color of the ''Sun'', green eyes that seemed like the ''Nature'' itself, fair skin that matches the ''Winter'', but has a pair of pointed ears that were not like ''Humans'', sat on her throne as "She" listened to a genuflecting ''kin'' speaking ''Elvish'', thenguage of the Elves. "My Queen¡­ @#$%^&*?" Chapter 45 A Sign Of Great Change (2) Thursday 11 AM, Obelisk Organization Headquarters, Meeting Room Twenty-one powerful individuals were sitting across each other as a long rectangr sturdy table sets them apart. Any other person who will mistakenly go to such kind of meeting will be crushed just by pressure exuded by a single individual, but in the presence of twenty-one ''yers'', if each of their aura was released, it will cause destruction not just in Obelisk City, but of the Country Olympia itself. "Alright, everybody is here, let us begin as this will not take long." Spoken by a man in histe 60s, but his feature was like in his forties due to the effects of ''Mana'' on human physique after the Emergence. He has brown hair, yellowish eyes, and a stature of 182 cm. He has a gentle demeanor, but if one didn''t know, his tone of speaking contains a condescending tone, but such use of tone didn''te from just arrogance, but from an arrogance backed by his ''status'' as every individual in the ''meeting room'' consists of the TOP 10 yers in the Human Domain, and their attendants for each of individual. Each ''yer'' here was ranked S and above, with the SSS+ as the highest. "Emmanuel, please brief us on the situation." Spoken by a man with a cheerful expression. He has short ck hair, light ck eyes, and a stature of 178 cm. A Japanese-borne lineage in histe 50s, but looked like in his early 30s, who is the father of Anya Amasawa; Makoto Amasawa. Although Emmanuel Lyncoster was a schr and a researcher, he was a S+ rank ''yer'', not just because of his ''Authority: Backward irvoryance''. After some greetings and pleasantries, Emmanuel Lyncoster spoke in a manner befitting a researcher who was presenting his findings. [Activating Skill: System''s World Memory (S+) [Conjuring the ''World Announcement'' messages to the ''Targeted yers''] With the use of one of his skills under the ''Authority: Backward irvoyance'', Emmanuel conjured the ''World Announcement'' messages as holographic screen projections appeared in front of all individuals in the meeting room which included each attendant of the TOP 10 ''yers''. It was consists of a total of eight holographic screens which were historically six, but the cause of this urgent meeting was due to the mysterious two ''World Announcement'' earlier that made it eight. The First holographic screen was about the catastrophe that struck the world out of nowhere which was the ''Emergence of Races'' that happened nearly 40 years ago. The Second holographic screen pertained to the Status Window information, as well as its instructions of use. It happened just a week after the ''Emergence'' also dubbed as ''Forlorn of Humanity'' where normal society and every kind of government instantly crumbled due to the cataclysmic earthquake that caused more than five billion deaths. The Third to Sixth holographic screen shows what happened within the almost 40 years after the new kind of lifestyle was forced on humanity. The Third World Announcement consists of unknown Trials that were given by various known Constetions under the Neutral System which prohibited the "direct" intervention of Constetions under the Good and Evil System which were prone to possible biases, but during the Trials, a ''yer'' could lean towards the Good System, or be under the corruption of Evil System unconsciously based on human nature itself. This World Announcement happened one month after the ''Emergence'' which caused humanity to have no rest, and experience continuous turmoil from the crumbled society. And with the information about Dungeon Towers and Strayed Dungeons given by the System, they served as Training Grounds apart from Close Mystery Towers that even after almost 40 years were still closed. With more than 3 billion people, millions were selected across the world and were given the Duration of 3 Earth Years to prepare. The Fourth World Announcement happened ten years after the ''Emergence'', and seven years after the unknown ''Trials'' which waster called ''Trials of the Stars''. This World Announcement consists of information about ''Races'' that were deemed friendly to humanity by the System for unknown reasons, this prompted the selected humans to venture on a long journey as the locations of other ''races'' were unknown. These races consisted of Elves and Dwarves. The Fifth World Announcement pertained to the ''creation'' of Warp Gates, which happened three years after the Fourth World Announcement. This World Announcement was mainly targeted at humanity because before the Constetion [Warper of Space] transferred the other races from across the ''Great Universe'', some of them already had or knew how to construct theplex ''Warp Gates.'' The System guided humanity under the Constetion [Warper of Space]''s authority for faster travel, especially after the first contact with Elves and Dwarves. The Sixth World Announcement was about the ''creation'' of Guilds or Factions. Before this announcement, humanity became one government throughout the years. This happened 20 years after the ''Emergence'' which caused other Countries, and other hidden factions to be born. With the creation of Guilds and Factions, opportunities were given to ''yers'' who were not chosen for the ''Trials of the Stars'' because when a yer who didn''t have a Constetion managed to join a Guild, that individual will be granted something called ''star blessing'' which gives various effects depending on the yer''s profession. And now¡­ [World Announcement! Some True Ancient Constetions have sensed a mysterious presence in the Earth''] ¡­ [World Announcement! Some True Ancient Constetions went back to their slumber as the mysterious presence instantly vanished, wondering if they were mistaken] Two ''World Announcements'' that happened within a span of minute were sent to everyone across the world. With Emmanuel Lyncoster''s help, under the ''Authority'' of the Constetion [One Who Oversees the Past], he could project System World Announcements and record them because these kinds of messages cannot be browsed again in the System after a very short period of time after the notification. "Based on the subsequent world announcements, we discovered three things; One, there are Constetions with higher power than we know so far; and Two, there is a mysterious presence here on our world; andstly, three, True Ancient Constetions based on the System''s message they are on a state of something called ''Slumber'', and with this, we can infer that ''one day'', they will wake up for some reason, we do not know when." Emmanuel delivered his assumptions as he stood in front of the twenty people inside the meeting room while remainingposed befitting of someone as a true schr and researcher who didn''t get fazed especially in front of TOP 10 ''yers''. After some contemtion, a question was raised. "So far, as per the prior System''s information, there are only three kinds of Constetions'' status which are the ''Half-Light Constetion, Lumen Constetion, and the Great Lumen Constetion¡­ and now, one is added which is called True Ancient Constetion, but based on the eighth ''world announcement'', when they wondered if they were mistaken about the presence of something mysterious, can we reallye to a conclusion that they were stronger than the other Constetions'' status, especially the Great Lumen one?" A beautiful, alluring woman with bluish eyes like sapphire, blonde hair, and a stature of 172 cm spoke her thoughts, prompting the other individuals in the meeting room to think about her question. After some time, almost every yer looked at the individual sitting at the end of the oval table as if they were expecting an answer. "Mr. Hall, what are your opinions? Did your Constetionmunicates with you earlier?" The woman asked the number 1 ''yer'' in the human domain, Artorious Hall who is the father of Samantha Hall! He has a fitted body ideal for a man, with a stature of 184 cm, grayish eyes that seemed like devoid of reality, and brownish short hair. Artorious, whose hands sped together under his chin as his shoulders were ced on the table spoke in an authoritarian manner. "Yes, True Ancient Constetions are above the Great Lumen ones ording to my Constetion, he vaguely told me that they do not interfere with ''worldly'' matters¡­ that we should not worry about them." They expected an answer from him because other Constetions that were contracted to each individual in the meeting room aside from him were at most on Lumen status, but Artorious Hall was contracted with a Great Lumen Constetion. And during the almost four decades, some humans realized that Constetions were not omniscient beings that know everything, though it didn''t mean they werecking knowledge and wisdom, some mysteries to humanity were known to them, and in the same way, some mysteries to humanity¡­ are also a mystery to them. Silence scattered inside the meeting room after hearing Artorious Hall''s words. Then without further ado, Emmanuel said, "As there arends and oceans not explored or discovered, we do not know if the mysterious existence based on the System World Announcements are rted to humanity or what exactly its nature. Any suggestions are wee to take necessary actions¡­" After some time of discussion, the Obelisk Organization''s main heads decided that they wouldmunicate with Elves, and Dwarves for more information. ¡­ Room 31, Amelie''s Dormitory, Rigel Building Amelie Rose went back to her dorm room after lunch as the sses ended at 12:00 noon. She managed to attend herst ss which was the ''Emergence History and Widely known Constetions'' (EHWC). She got questioned because of her absence during the P.E ss as she told Freya with a smiling expression and cheerful tone that she woke upte, and her sleep was more rxing than ever, though Freya still felt suspicious, she epted it at the moment. Then during lunch with Freya, as well as Amery, a voice rang in her head which prompted her to flinch slightly that was noticed by the duo, but ignored it. She recalled the familiar voice that entered her head¡­ ''Later at night, 11 PM, I''ll go there again¡­'' Although she understood that not everything was over based on what Russell Moon saidst night, she couldn''t believe it when she checked the messages from the System about the benefits of what she went through. ''I''ll tell him¡­ perhaps he already knows.'' She thought as her resolve was fixed at the moment of telling Russell about the ''Dark Tears'', No, her predicament. ¡­ Eleven in the evening, Room 31, Amelie''s Dormitory. Russell who wore the ''Mask of Night'' appeared from the shadows on the floor of Amelie''s dorm. Amelie who saw again for the second time with her pair of eyes felt a baffling sense of wonder as she thought that this man has many secrets¡­ but she has too. ''I got scolded by my younger sister¡­ I told her that I feltzy to attend sses. Haha'' Russell recalled her younger sister''s nagging with his half-truth answer as to why he was absent earlier in ss. After he was snapped out of his thoughts, he asked Amelie who was sitting on thefortable couch, eating a bacon sandwich at the moment. "Are you ready?" "What''s next?" She asked as she took a light bite on the bacon sandwich she was holding with her right hand, and Russell, who saw this sat beside her, maintaining a certain distance also grab a bite as she prepared for an extra. "Well¡­ how do I say it¡­" As Russell spoke, he remembered again the ''World Announcement'' earlier in the morning that made him drenched in cold sweat. ''I''ll ask my Goddess about that.'' He thought, and as he realized how he referred to the Goddess of Night, he almost face-palmed in front of Amelie. ''I''m subconsciously subservient!'' hempooned inwardly. After some time, he spoke to Amelie, saying the next step. When Amelie heard him, she doubted if her ears were in the right condition as she asked him again. "Training Grounds? What are we going to do at such a ce?" "Hmm¡­ Don''t mind it, you''ll know when we get there. Are you done?" He took a nce on his side as he saw her finish her midnight snack, and Amelie who saw his nce nodded at him as she chew thest bacon sandwich. ''You''re faster than me at eating...'' shempooned. "Okay, let''s go." Russell stood up and took out an ominous-looking ''key'' from his Dimensional Inventory, it has a symbol carved on its head part like the one on the ''mask'' he was wearing. Amelie who saw it also stood up, feeling a sense of apprehension because of the unknown. Then Russell, who was holding the ''True Key of Chaos'' thrust it in the air, prompting Amelie to look at her side, tilting her head in confusion, but after a second or two, a crack appeared on where Russell thrust the ''key''. ''What in the world¡­'' Amelie''s eyes felt like they consumed something mysterious as the scene in front of her reflected in her eyes. A dark blue aura gushes out in bare minimum as a space opened out of nowhere, then Russell held her shoulder; before she could say something, both of them were sucked into the torn fabric of space. Chapter 46 Amelies Growth (1) [You have arrived at Chaos Training Grounds] [Stamina Regeneration increased by 500%] [Mana Regeneration increased by 400%] [Chaos Power regeneration increased by 300%] [Growth speed increased by 200%] [The Time Difference set by the Mediator of Chaos: 1 is to 3] [1 day on Earth, 3 days on this ce] [You cannot die in this ce] ¡­ Amelie Rose read the stacks of System messagesid in front of her vision, and soon, her expression turned into a baffled one; she scratched her eyes with her both hands to check if she was dreaming or if this was another reality. She was standing in front of a rectangr arena that was the size of at least hundreds of meters in length and width. There were also different kinds of weapons, as well as training dummies on each corner of the arena. ''This ce is a treasure! But the message about Time Difference is something else¡­'' As she thought of that, Amelie took a nce to her side, then she saw Russell Moon who arrived with her, but his nce was directed above as if conversing with someone, prompting her to look as well; thus, she saw the sky filled with stars that illuminated the cosmos, and a sense of wonder entered her very soul with the serene sight of the night that reflected on her reddish eyes. "Let''s take a seat first¡­" Russell spoke beside her as she realized there were no benches or seats around. Both of them sat on the edge of the arena near the weapons and armor section, and a training dummy. After some time, Russell asked her an expected, and unexpected question which caused her to momentarily faze. "Were you selling ''Dark Tears'' in the ''ck Market''?" "Were you being pursued?" The ''expected question'' was about the ''Dark Tears'' she was selling on the ''ck Market'' before she came to Obelisk Academy, while thetter was the unexpected one. "I''m being pursued... but how did you know?" Although the man in front of her held many secrets, and those secrets were beingid upon her, she couldn''t help but ask. "Even ''Dark Healer'' is a ''Rare Profession or ss'', it doesn''t mean you''re the only one who possessed it, also almost everyone is either dead or held captive by some other faction. How did you discover it? About that ''drug''." When she heard Russell''sst word, a sharp pang of guilt suddenly jolted her heart as she remembered the effects of the ''Dark Tears'' she sold in the ''ck Market'' that caused deaths to some people which included some minors swept by their peers, and adults who do nothing but pursue pleasure or other desires. After some rumination, she spoke with an apologetic tone. "A few years ago, before I turned seven years old, and before the System was granted to me, the manifestation of my ''Profession'' was seen after an incident that caused me to ''cry'', and at that moment, my parents were shocked, felt terrified with the unknown. They didn''t know, the same as me about it, but when they consulted others from somewhere I have no idea from, they were told that it can bring bad luck; thus, my parents sold me to some broker, then I ended up in the streets after escaping after three years as a ve in an underground of some sorts. I tried to find what''s special about my ''dark tears'' that time as I was just a little kid, then another incident happened, it was when I was crying in a sewer, I forgot about my condition at that moment, then some rats approached me as if I was already dead, then with some lights that reached the sewer, I saw my ''dark tears'' that were crystallized, eaten by rats¡­ then¡­" "They went crazy." Russell ended what she was supposed to say as he listened to her story, and thought. ''What a tragic one¡­'' He remembered the ''discriminated professions'', but when he wrote his novel in his previous life, he didn''t specify the names and backgrounds of the ''main characters'' ssmates, instead he just vaguely wrote the ''Professions'' of the unnamed ssmates in his novel. What he wrote in his previous life was the professions'' names, as well as some professions that needed something to be acquired like Amery Blight''s ''Blood Swordsman'' ss that he saw a few days ago through his Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX). ''To think what I wrote turned into a tragedy story¡­'' Russell couldn''t help but felt a baffling sense of guilt¡­ ''Although I considered this new life a blessing to me¡­ I feel like it became a tragedy for others...'' ¡­ Dark Tears were a kind of drug that came from the tears of a person with a ''Dark Healer'' profession¡­ its effects were rxation at first, but addictive, and would turn the consumer crazy in the long run. Crazy, not in a way to bepletely mentally unstable, but it amplifies the subconscious desire of the consumer¡­ Those desires vary depending on one''s nature. Some murdered their loved ones, then kill themselves in the process. Some directlymitted suicide with amplified depression. Some became bold tomit thievery. Some became brain-dead, and all could do wasugh unendingly. "It has a cure which is Skill: Purification (S), but considering ''Dark Tears'' is illegal, it was impossible for people to approach a ''Priest'' for such treatment. Although there were ''Priest'' in the ''ck Market'', the costs of Purification were immense; thus unaffordable." Amelie spoke, as she remembered what she witnessed during her time in the ''ck Market'', and in the streets. She wore amented expression as if she was about to break into tears again. "It wasn''t your fault," Russell said sinctly. ¡­ After some time of talking, a notification entered their ears as they reflexively shut their words, and read the holographic screen in front of them. [Constetion ''Night of Primordial Goddess'', says one of her subordinates ising in a minute.] [Constetion ''Night of Primordial Goddess'' activated the Skill: Eternal Barrier (God)] [You will be protected against any ''pressure''] Russell, who saw the notification felt a sense of nostalgia as he read the messages and thought. ''Was this the barrier the Goddess used on me when "she" materialized in front of me?'' He let out a self-deprecating sigh as the feeling of wanting such skill surged within him. ¡­ As considered a ''Party'' under System''s rules, Amelie Rose also saw the System messages behind the ''notifications'', she silently thought of various questions in her mind. ''Constetion [Night of Primordial Chaos]?'' ''Eternal Barrier?'' ''Is she the contractor of Russell?'' After some thinking, she remembered what happened earlier in the morning, when a ''World Announcement'' were sent across the world via System. ''Based on the world announcement earlier, there''s something called True Ancient Constetions¡­'' as she wondered, she nced to her side, and curiously asked Russell. "Russell¡­" But before she could ask, she refrained from doing so¡­ ''I don''t know how to properly ask it! I might look rude to her contractor.'' Russell, who heard her voice spoke as if he knew what she was going to ask, and answered vaguely. "Higher." "What?" Amelie thought for some time before her eyes widened with the sudden realization that hit her. ''Higher than True Ancient Constetions!?'' She looked nkly at Russell as if she was lost, her mouth agape, then after some time, her thoughts were snapped out by the cracking sounds as space was torn in front of them. ''This is the second time I''d seen such phenomena¡­ it still amazes me.'' ¡­ [Constetion, ''Lady of the Shaded Spade'' is materializing.] Within the torn fabric of space, a woman in a deep ck gown appeared in front of Russell and Amelie, turning them agape with the sight. "Her" features wereposed of deep ck eyes, deep ck hair that was fluttering, a height of 169 cm, and wearing a ck veil hat that partly covered her eyes. Even though Russell already saw the Goddess of Night personally, he couldn''t control his emotions as his heart beats uncontrobly. He took a nce at Amelie beside him and saw her looking down, avoiding taking a gaze at such existence, her eyes felt looked like she lost her soul. ''I¡ª'', she couldn''t even make a thought. Due to the Eternal Barrier that Goddess of Night cast upon them, they didn''t die instantly under such presence, the pressure she exudes was lessened immensely in their perspective, but the moment the Eternal Barrier was retracted, they felt that they will vanish instantly. After a few seconds of silence¡­ "My dear, what a ruined child¡­" She maintained her bearing while looking at Amelie, while she took a short nce beside her, forming unknown thoughts, then retracted her gaze. "Dear, you came here because you have decided to make a new path for yourself." Amelie, who heard her words mustered up the courage to look at the presence in front of her and replied in an unsteady tone. "Y-y-ye-s¡­ h-how s-should I ad-address y-you?" ''I was like you when I first met my Goddess!'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he took a nce at Amelie as her eyes darted around. "My Lady will suffice." The Goddess said sinctly. ''I don''t know here¡­'' Russell thought, almost face-palming in front of another goddess. "My Lady, thank you for taking interest in me. I will fulfill your expectations." She mustered the courage as she felt like she could converse clearly. "My, my, that is what I like, my dear. Shall we proceed then?" The Goddess asked, prompting Amelie to close the distance as she approached the Goddess. ''I don''t dare to let her walk toe to me!'' She thought and felt like any dishonor would lead to her death without even knowing why. Russell watched the contract procedure happen in front of him. Amelie extended both her palm, then the hands of the Goddess were ced atop hers at a certain distance, not touching each other. After the contract procedure ended, the Goddess said to Russell as she took a nce at him. "You have now apanion, Mediator of Chaos." The Goddess vanished instantly as she walked again in the torn fabric of space, then a thought struck him. "Wai-!" he couldn''t finish his words. ''My Goddess said you will groom her! What the hell is this?'' [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos''ughs at her contractee.] [Constetion, ''Lady of Shaded Spade'' asks her Goddess'' contractee how could she does such a thing.] Russell frowned at the System messages as he realized he was tricked again by her Goddess'' words. ''Right, how can a Goddess train personally?'' hempooned as his hands covered his face from the realization and embarrassment. "My Goddess, I have a question about what happened earlier¡­" [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' says to interact more with the Egg??? and not let it engage the conversation first.] ''Is that so¡­ basically the ''Egg???'' was silently feeling gloomy because I don''t talk to it often?'' ''How does it rte to the True Ancient Constetions? But based on my Goddess'' answer, she indirectly confirmed that those world announcements were pertaining to the ''Egg???'' that was entrusted to me¡­'' ''I''ll just do what she says, also that time, I was bombarded with notifications regarding my Nihility Trait that restraining the True Ancient Constetions'' gazes¡­ maybe it will be more potent if I keep interacting with the ''Egg???'''' He made various conjectures as she forgot Amelie''s presence, then he heard a voice beside him. "Thank you, Russell." Chapter 47 Amelies Growth (2) AMELIE ROSE MERVEIL TITLE: [The One Who Witness the Impossible] - You have witnessed the materialization of the subordinate of the primordial goddess, an event that is not seen since the creation of the world. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 20 - Willpower and Tenacity increased by 30 - Chaos Power increased by 100 - Gain the Skill: Eye of the Darkest Spade (EX) [The One Who Saw the Shaded Spade Lady] - You have seen the Constetion, ''Lady of Shaded Spade'', a subordinate of the Primordial Goddess personally. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 20 - Willpower and Tenacity increased by 30 - Chaos Power increased by 100 [Secret Bearer of Chaos] - You have been chosen to be a panion'' of the Mediator of Chaos which will be beneficial to your growth. Rank: EX Effects: - Growth Rate increased by two times. - You are restricted to tell the secrets you have seen or will see without the Mediator of Chaos'' permission. Upon betrayal or hostility¡­ do not think about the consequences that will befall. Resident of the Spade Castle - Under the Authority of the Lady of Shaded Spade, you have been considered as her resident under her domain. Rank: Forbidden Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 10 - Chaos Power increased by 50 - All dark element-rted skills will be amplified by 100%. - All chaos element-rted skills will be amplified by 50% Health Points: 3,030 Mana Points: 1,950 Stamina Points: 2,500 Chaos Mana: 2500 Age: 16 (Earth Years) Sex: Female Height: 166 cm Rank: D+ Profession: Dark Shade Constetion: Lady of Shaded Spade STATS: Strength: 220 Dexterity: 220 Constitution: 235 Agility: 235 (+73) Vitality: 225 (+78) Willpower: 215 Tenacity: 215 Charm: 15 Luck: 13 Magic Power: 195 Chaos Power: 250 Unique Skill: Shade Transformation (MAX ¨C Amplified) - You can transform into a ''Shade'', an incorporeal being that is living within the Spade Castle Rank: Unholy Cost: 5 Chaos Mana per minute Effects: - Upon transformation, you can fly and pass through walls. You can only be seen by ''yers'' that possess ''special eyes'' or with artifacts against incorporeal beings. - You can possess someone with lower tenacity and willpower stats than you. Skills: Eye of the Darkest Spade (MAX - Amplified) Rank: Unholy Cost: 0 - You can peek at the ''Status Windows'' of others. - You can peek at the weaknesses of others ''during'' a fight. Shriek of the Shade (Max ¨C Amplified) Rank: Unholy Cost: 100 Mana - Let out a shriek that will cause faintness if the ''target yer'' has tenacity and willpower stat 50% lower than you; will cause ''disorientation'' if 25% lower than you. This condition is only applicable within 30 meters of the skill effect. - This skill can also be used during ''Shade Transformation'' - The farther the ''yer'' with the shriek, the lesser the impact. Spade Warp (Level 0 ¨C Amplified) Rank: Unholy Cost: 100 Mana - Open a spade-shaped portal that can allow you and yourpanions to traverse long distances at once; this will continually consume the mana of the ''yer'' by 100 per minute to retain the skill upon initial warp opening. - This has a range of 500 kilometers (+500) - This end-destination can only be determined if the location was somewhere the ''yer'' saw first personally. Heal (MAX ¨C Amplified) Rank: Unholy Cost: 100 Mana/50 Chaos Mana - Heal at least 15% (+15%) of the ''target yer'' health points. - If the target has a Chaos Trait, the skill will recover 25% (25%) health points - This skill has a cooldown of 5 minutes; 10 minutes if the target has Chaos Trait. Smoke Blink (Lvl 0 ¨C Amplified) Rank: Unholy Cost: 15 Mana - Blink ording to the yer''s will. - The blink distance is 5 to 10 meters. - Upon leaving the location, your initial ce will produce ck smoke. Trait: Chaos You have be apanion of the Mediator. Effects: - Chaos Aura or Chaos Miasma will bepatible in your body. - All Variable Stats except for Charm and Luck increased by 150. Nihility (Modified) - Conceals oneself from the prying eyes as if to be nothing itself. Effect: - Manipte the Status Window to the user''s will - Any weapons or armor with Chaos property will be automatically concealed. - Your body and soul with Chaos will be concealed. - Any skills with Chaos property will be concealed. - During a battle, the surroundings will be concealed from themotion. Blood of the Lamented One - Your blood will have dark property conditionally. Effects: - It is only applicable if you bleed, hence it will remain as ''Chaos property.'' - It will cause corrosion upon contact if the yer does not have the Chaos Trait. Authority: Wheel of the Dark This is the authority bestowed by Lady of Shaded Spade, the ruler of the Spade Castle in the Chaos Realm. The authority holder will be granted the following benefits: 1. Skill: Dark Resurrection (Forbidden) Cooldown: 60 (Earth Days) Effects: You have been given the authority to resurrect anyone ording to your will. The resurrected body will be granted a ''Puppet'' curse that cannot be dispelled. This ''Puppet'' curse cannot affect anyone with the Chaos Trait. Condition of Use: - The dead has a living soul and didn''t experience ''True Death'' - Physical body of the ''Target''. 2. All of your non-chaos property skills will automatically be ''dark property''. 3. Your Mana Control, Mana Regeneration, and Mana Breathing efficiency increased by 400%. 4. Increased Resistance to Dark Attribute by 1000% (MAX) 5. Increased Resistance to Light Attribute 100% ¡­ ''What kind of d*gsh*t in the world is this!?'' Russell Moon couldn''t help but silently let out profanity in his mind upon seeing Amelie Rose''s Status Window in a detailed form, though he didn''t bother to read the ''additional yer stats'' where something such as health and mana regeneration can be found, he thought of such changes as absurd. He looked at Amelie who, at the same time had a stupefied look on her face while looking nkly in the air, but in reality, she was also looking at her ''Status Window.'' ''Her stats and rank basically became higher than mine!'' He couldn''t help butmpoon due to the unfairness of the ''Unique Skill: Chaos Buff'' that he has, although he knew that it gave her overall stats in proportion of his Chaos Power, he didn''t expect her to gain additional titles except from meeting a Constetion personally. ''Does it mean every time my Chaos Stats rises, her overall stats will rise? Ah, sh*t! Also, her tenacity and willpower stats are higher than Han Jiho, the main character I wrote¡­ well, at least for now that is the case.'' As Russell was rained on curse thoughts of the somehow unfair treatment, a notification sound from the System entered his ears, prompting him to look at it with a disgruntled expression. [Your Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX) has been modified] [Your Unique Skill: Chaos Buff (EX) will now grant a constant 150 all variable stats aside from Charm and Luck] ''F*ck!'' Another curse entered his mind as various subsequent thoughts formed. ''Why only now?'' Why in the f*ck did I get notified just now? And not when the ''Body and Soul Reconstruction'' of Amelie finished?'' He felt as if the System wanted him to feel pissed off at first before notifying him of some changes. He looked in the starry night sky, conveying his thoughts to his Goddess of Night about what was happening, then he received a response via System. [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'' enters her slumber] [Constetion, "Lady of Shaded Spade'' chuckles, and enters her slumber] Russell stared nkly at the System messages while restraining himself to blurt out profanities in Amelie''s presence who seemed to absorb the changes in her. After some time, as if the System heard his plea, numerous holographic System messages appeared in his vision. [Your Skill: Reinforcing Chaos (EX) has been modified] [Your Skill: Reinforcing Chaos (EX) will act as a substitute in granting ''variable stats'' to yourpanion with Chaos Trait] Russell recalled one of the skills he has as he browsed his ''Status Window''. Reinforcing Chaos (Lvl 0 - Amplified) Rank: EX Cost: 0 MP/CM - Gives amount of chaos miasma to the designated target. - The effect depends on the target, and the amount of chaos miasma given. - If the target has Chaos Trait, it will grant them variable stats. - If the target does not have Chaos Trait, it will corrupt them. ''Sigh¡­'' he let out a sigh of relief inwardly with the information he read as he felt like the unfairness has been resolved. He also checked his rank, and he was still at D- but borderline D, one rank down in contrast with Amelie who''s a D+ rank right now¡­ ''I think the Chaos Buff also included the Tenacity and Willpower stats because of Body and Soul reconstruction¡­'' He consoled himself with the unbnced scene he just witnessed right now. [The Egg??? cheers you!] For some baffling reason, his irascible emotions calmed down as he nced at another System message. [The Egg??? blesses you!] [The Egg??? gifted you a ''Fruit of Chaos''!] A genuine smile that seemed to forget the earlier unfairness formed on his lips. ''Sigh¡­ thank you, my Goddess! Thank you, Egg??? I don''t know what to call you. Haha'' He thought, then another System message appeared in his sight. [The Egg??? goes back to its slumber] ''I cannot think properly right now, I guess I need to take a rest for a while¡­'' He nced at Amelie who was sitting on the edge of the arena with still wore an expression of disbelief. "What''s wrong?" Russell asked, sensing something was bothering her. "About some of my skills¡­ unholy rank¡­ does it mean I''m evil?" She asked with pure curiosity, but her question was appropriate for someone new who witnessed such skills. ''She wasn''t wrong to think like that, but that''s not exactly the case.'' "No, although others might think something like that, it''s not necessarily evil. It simply refers to the property of the skill¡­ just treat it as ''element'' that has its own strengths and weaknesses." Russell spoke, not to console her, but to give her some facts, and encourage her at the same time, he then thought inwardly¡­ ''It''s good of you¡­ that you are worried about being evil in this twisted world¡­'' Chapter 48 Reasonable Overthinking Russell Moon and Amelie Rose Merveil returned to Earth after some conversation. Russell, who felt some unfairness returned to hisposed self, while Amelie, who seemingly remained with a shocked expression, was very grateful for what had transpired. Although she was concerned at first even after resolving herself, she began to understand various things during her conversation with Russell; she didn''t ask how he knew such things, the most important to her was that she felt she was not alone anymore in a real sense where her past was exposed. ¡­ It was midnight as they returned from the Chaos Training Ground. The bluish moon illuminated the surroundings whether it was the world itself, dark corners of the human domain, Obelisk Academy itself, or a specific dormitory. It gives off a serene feeling as if the world has achieved a peaceful life where the natural order of things were at its optimal equilibrium. Russell Moon, for some time, as he looked outside the window, was slumped down on his bed reined in his thoughts. He recalled the details he wrote in his novel in his previous life before his reincarnation inside the said novel [The Forgotten Swordsman of Ruined Star]. ''Untouched Elements are some things that I didn''t exin thoroughly, or left vague throughout the novel like the ''Seed of Chaos'' where it was passed by some of the students, then left unchecked¡­ Also, Maya, the sales clerk from the yer General Store where she massacred a certain guild for some reason and then seldom made an appearance again in the novel¡­ And my younger sister, who became a ssmate of the main characters I''ve written¡­'' Russell realized the absurdity of the novel he didn''t manage to publish in his previous life. He silently let out a self-deprecatingugh as he reined in his thoughts toe up with ssifications of his experiences so far. ''Untouched Elements are something I know¡­ but vague¡­ which means some supplementary and corresponding details are unknown to me such as the presence of the Goddess of Night when I looked for the Seed of Chaos¡­ I didn''t expect her to be in that hidden dungeon¡­'' With such an encounter, the story he knew from the novel probably drifted away from the original story. ''Although, it is not evident right now¡­ I''m certain that is the case.'' He couldn''t help but remember Samantha Hall who asked her for a dance during the Banquet of Obelisk which resulted in Reinhardt sending some goons to warn him through torture.'' He let out a self-deprecating sigh as he remembered the mess where blood was sttered across the floor, where a head flew to the ground, and a pair of feet were mutted by Ceru, the Chaos Slime, through a sneak attack. ''Plus the System messages and modification of skills¡­ Although skills modification was not rare depending on the unknown conditions of the System, I felt like the System is sometimes b*llsh*tt*ng me, but at the same time it felt like it''s responding to one''s concrete thoughts¡­ does it mean if I don''t find something amiss, it won''t notify me?'' Russellmpooned, as the feeling of irascibility he experienced earlier felt like surging again. He continued on his train of thought under the gaze of the bluish moon prating his bedroom,paring the details in the novel he wrote, and what he encountered so far. ''Based on what I wrote in my novel¡­ the System has an unknown origin, and the System does help every yer such as skill modification for optimization¡­ at the same time I recall stating in my novel that the Goddess of Night does not take interest in anyone, and also I mentioned the existence of "unknown" gods and demons¡­'' As Russell''s thoughts kept swirling in his head, he took note of the System''s behavior towards him, wondering if there was an identity behind the System itself. He also realized that the Goddess of Night had just drifted slightly from the setting he wrote about her in his novel, though he got contracted with her, after that, she basically just watches sometimes, then mostly goes back to her slumber. After some time, Russell realized quite a problem. "The ''unknown existence'' of some gods and demons¡­ there is no exact number to them¡­" Russell curse himself inwardly as he muttered those words, though he didn''t even expect such reincarnation inside his own novel was possible, he couldn''t help but felt like paying a price for his trash writing. He remember the Constetion, ''Lady of Shaded Spade'', whom he didn''t know. After some time of rumination, he sighed, and muttered in a voice of resignation¡­ "I feel like this world drifted to some mystery genre¡­" Of course, almost everyone except him, and the Goddess of Night, or some other variable¡­ knew of some critical things that are aplete mystery to others. Russell thought of the untouched elements¡­ and before his eyes shut as he cannot bear the mental strain anymore, he thought of another ssification of the peculiarities he encountered. ''Unknown elements.'' ¡­ Saturday Morning, Room 393, Andromeda Building. Russell woke up from his sleep as he heard a knock on the door. As he opened his eyes, he felt the heaviness of his head as he unconsciously pressed it. The sight of the ceiling came into his view then he nce at the rm clock on his study desk where the time was 8:30 AM. "Knock! Knock!~" His half-trance state was purged with the persistent knocking as he stood up, wear some clothes, and reached out the door knob. There, he saw Freya whose hair was still slightly wet, looking at him with anxious eyes. "Come in." Russell let here in as Freya sat on the couch beside the bed as he prepared some breakfast. After some time, without beating around the bush, Russell spoke with a tone of curiosity. "What''s going on?" ''I want to sleep more!'' hempooned inwardly. Freya took the ss of water prepared by her brother, then sipped it lightly before she spoke. "I need advice ''Oppa''¡­" She said, feeling somewhat expectant, but also anxious. "Advice on what?" Russell looked at her with somewhat worried eyes, feeling like there is something serious going on¡­ "Mock battle,ter afternoon against a senior, you know¡­" After some time of thinking, Russell recalled that Disciplinary Committee Members have to train every weekend afternoon. "Hmm¡­ do you know your opponent''s profession?" he asked, so he coulde up with something. "High Pugilist." ''High Pugilist¡­ that''s someone who''s specialized with melee brawl, as well as kicks¡­'' "What about his or her rank?" Russell asked, to determine if there was a chance of winning, though his younger sister is a Magic Swordsman, if the High Pugilist came too close to the point where she cannot swing her sword, it would be troublesome. "He''s D rank" Freya said, causing Russell to frown slightly, but she didn''t catch his expression as her face was looking on the floor while her expression seemed dejected. ''My younger sister is E rank right now¡­ three ranks downpared to her opponent...'' After some time, Russell voiced his true opinions without sugarcoating his words for his younger sister. "If he is 3 ranks above you, you will not win because of the difference in stats gap, it would be somehow fine if he is two ranks above as experience can be an alternative, but he is a senior, so he probably has experience in mock battles, too." "What should I do then, Oppa?" Freya, who listened to her older brother''s words felt gloomy. ''What should you do? Hmm¡­ how about I let her lose?'' Although Freya was under some training with their parents, she didn''t experience losing before...and not losing could stagnate the growth of someone, especially in the mental aspect. Russell ruminated on how he should respond, then he spoke¡­ "Just do what you are good at, and ept it whether you win or lose." Freya stared silently at his older brother, sitting beside her, as she absorbed what he said, and contemted over it for some time before saying¡­ "Okay, Oppa¡­" ''It feels like some sh*t is going on, I guess I''ll watch themter.'' Russell recalled the difference in rank which is unreasonable to some extent. Then, he nced at his younger sister then spoke with an inquisitive tone. "Freya, can you tell me all the details about the mock battle?" ¡­ Rigel Building Exclusive Training Grounds Aside from the Personal Training Ground that each A-1 student from Rigel Building of first-years, as well as the other years in their corresponding dormitory building, ''exclusive training grounds'' was meant to develop interactions and develop social connections between A-1 students. ... A bunch of students was sparring, sizing up each other''sbat prowess. From strangers to at least acquaintances because of the Banquet of Obelisk¡­ or a certain blonde Princess with green eyes. ''So, this is what you were talking about¡­ Alexander.'' Han Jiho thought as he was watching a woman whose long blonde hair was tied, with green eyes sparring against another woman with also blonde hair but had pig-tail style and sapphire-like eyes. Then on the other side, there was a man with lofty stature, blonde hair, and deep blue eyes, sparring against a redhead woman whose hair was bob-style and has ruby-like eyes. ''Elizabeth, Rumia¡­ Leon, and Anya? If I remember right¡­'' Being bad at remembering names, Han Jiho tried his best to remember those he interacted with, then he took a nce at another side of the ''Exclusive Training Grounds'' where a woman was sitting cross-legged while her hands touched her knees, seemingly in thought as her eyes were close. ''Samantha¡­'' Han Jiho thought, and he felt an inexplicable sense of coldness with a such woman. ''She''s strong¡­ probably stronger than everyone here I won''t probably win if I sh swords with her right now.'' He instinctively felt the atmosphere around Samantha Hall, the daughter of the number 1 rank yer in the human domain. After some time, he stood up from the bench where he was sitting, then proceed to swing his sword at a nearby training dummy. ¡­ Obelisk Institute of the Origin, Research Center A man still in aboratory coat sat on a chair inside his personal office where a table with stacks of paper with a namete where the name: Emmanuel Lyncoster was written alongside with his rank as a yer. Emmanuel Lyncoster was holding a piece of paper that just came from the Obelisk Organization Headquarters. It was about the report about the response of the Elven country called the Elnira Kingdom, and Dwarven country called the Vulcan Kingdom regarding the two ''World announcements''st Thursday. He read the contents of the report; the Vulcan Kingdom does not have any idea. While he kept reading, Emmanuel felt an inexplicable sense of apprehension. He muttered the words on the report to check if he read it right at first nce. "After the ''world announcements'', one of the attendants of the Queen of Elnira, attempted to mutter something in front of the Queen, but suddenly died on the spot. Cause of death: Unknown" Chapter 49 Mock Battle Three in the afternoon, Obelisk Public Training Grounds Various students from different years flocked inside the Obelisk Public Training Grounds where numerous arenas were located while the members of the Disciplinary Committee took their designated seats, and others who happened to know about the ''Mock Battle'' came to watch such as Russell Moon, Amelie Rose, as well as Amery Blight who still maintained her aloof, cold atmosphere which unintentionally gives a misunderstanding for her as being unapproachable. Some students managed to find their seats, others were standing, and there were also students who doesn''t mind the ''Mock Battle'' and focused on their training. Russell Moon, one of the spectators who was standing not so far from one of the arenas where the battles would take ce, took a gaze around to check the other spectators as he spoke in his mind. ''Samantha isn''t here, Han Jiho, too¡­ as well as the others¡­ I think they''re on the Obelisk Exclusive Training Grounds¡­'' Russell let out a sigh of relief as he remembered that their circumstances were at least aligned in the novel he wrote despite the previous randomness or gaps where he got involved. As he thought with some tranquillity, he remembered what his younger sister, Freya told him earlier in the morning inside his dormitory where he asked the thorough details regarding the ''mock battle''. ''Ms. Azalea won''t be able to attend to oversee the mock battle because of other important business, so the authority to preside was passed to Student Council President. Then, the pairings were also done by him¡­'' When Russell heard that, his expression turned into a frown slightly which Freya didn''t catch as, then he recalled the identity of the Student Council President, the kind of person who he liked to punch the most. ''Arthur Wolfson¡­ a double-faced man with generous bearing in the public eye but conceited within his circle.'' ¡­ "Next match! Freya Moon against Kevin Springer! Please,e to the arena!" The one who was presiding over the match was also a student from the Disciplinary Committee, he was a senior whose expression had an obvious trace of being biased based on his expression towards the participants. Freya Moon and Kevin Springer positioned themselves inside the arena with at least 10 meters apart, then at the sound of the whistle held by the presiding student, the battle began. Freya, who was quite anxious, but somewhatposed, didn''t manage to ready herself with theunch of an attack. With the difference in the overall stats, her opponent reached her spot, causing her to be momentarily dazed as she didn''t manage to use ''Blink'' in that span of time. Although the Skill: Blink doesn''t have a cooldown, it has a casting time of at least milliseconds, and can also be interrupted by mental shock. ~Bang! A right fist reached Freya''s abdomen even though she at least managed to reflexively react by using the sturdy training sword to block the attack, but considering the difference in rank, overall stats, and possibly battle experience, she flew for a few meters. ~Cough! Cough! Cough! She held her abdomen where the fistnded and felt like her body got sted by a military tank. Some arena tiles got destroyed by the impact, causing a slight smoke screen. Without wasting his time, Kevin Springer jumped from his spot with an unimaginable speed in the eyes of lower-ranked students or yers to attack again the woman who slumped down on the ground with his punch. ''I just have to beat her up to join Sir Arthur''s faction¡­'' Kevin thought as he grinned at the situation. ¡­ Freya, who was still holding her abdomen, felt her a chill running down her back. ''An attack!'' She thought as she instinctively used the Skill: Blink, teleporting her at least a few meters away from the second attack location, but she heard a voice behind her¡­ "Where do you think you''re going?" It was Kevin, who managed to reach her in an instant she used ''Blink'' with the use of one of his exclusive High Pugilist skills, ''Battle Locking (D), where he could lock on a specific target with 30 minutes duration, and aside from locking, this gives Kevin additional advantage with the skill''s another effect called: Kick Blink, this effect was simr to ''Blink'', the only difference was that the moment Kevin use this skill, he would automatically, as if a robot,unched a kick ''behind'' the locked target. "Arghhh!" Freya''s painful scream resounded as she got kicked from the back and flew again for a few meters, but to Kevin, this sight wasn''t enough¡­ because his opponent, although with three differences in ranks, didn''t knock her out. ''This brat!'' Kevin angrily thought as he againunched an attack. ¡­ ''Just do what you can¡­'' Her Oppa''s voice resounded in her head as she was getting beat up at the moment. All she managed to do was to dodge, but with their differences, whether it was ranks or overall stats, she still received damage. Not even five minutes had passed! "I''m a generous man, why don''t you surrender huh?" Freya, though turned sluggish with four kicks, that even the pain from her back seemed unbearable that it turned numb, she managed topose her mind to think¡­ and with her intelligence, she notice something¡­ ''The Blink and his kicks were always targeted on my back¡­ is it an added condition?'' Then after some time of contemting, she grinned at her opponent in front of her, then extended her sturdy training sword, pointing to her opponent without saying anything. ¡­ ''This b*tch!'' Kevin didn''t say a word with the sight in front of his eyes, but it was evident on his forehead where a vein bulged that he was mad with the ambiguous expression his opponent did. ''You''re smiling ha¡­ let me put a bondage to that mouth of yours!'' he angrily thought as he used again the Kick Blink effect of the ''Battle Locked'' skill, but at that moment, with a half-turned head, his opponent smiled. ¡­ Freya, who was anticipating the attack, half-turned her head, and a grin formed on her expression in that second as she muttered the skill in her mind¡­ ''Wind Stab!'' During one of her fights in the ''Disciplinary Trial Exams'', she used the Skill: Wind Cutter, not to do an arced sh, but to thrust her opponent that time, resulting from the System, instead of modification, to give her additional skill. Freya didn''t fully turn her body, only her half-turned head, anticipating the attack. At that moment, her sturdy training sword, enveloped by wind elements, was thrust, passing by her armpit as she leaned down slightly to adjust her body. ~Bang! Her sturdy sword hit the foot of Kevin Springer, resulting in both parties being repelled against each other upon impact. ''I did it, Oppa, this is what I can do for now¡­'' her thoughts faded as she lost consciousness at that moment due to exhaustion. ¡­ By being hit on one of his feet, Kevin Springer had a shocked expression. Although it didn''t damage him that much, getting a clean hit with a low rank, especially with three rank differences was uneptable. He looked at his opponent, slumped down with her face first on the arena ground, and with clouded thoughts, he let out his thoughts as he said¡­ "You f*ck*ng b*tch!!!" With a few minutes that just passed since the start of the mock battle between the two, his Skill: Battle Locking was still active; thus, he used its additional effect, Kick Blink to instantly reached her unconscious opponent, then he arrived at her top with a downward kick¡­ but at that moment, he heard a voice, not of the presider of the battle who just watched with obvious biases on his expression, but a well-known calm, and gentle man¡­ "Stop, you win." Kevin Springer''s feet almost reached the back of unconscious Freya but managed to stop it halfway, prompting him to look at the owner of the voice. ''Student Council President!'' Kevin reflexively lowered his head as he approached the Student Council President, then he heard a whisper in his ears¡­ "Manage yourself well in public, or else¡­" Those words served as a warning as Kevin felt cold sweat form on his scalp instantly as he replied in a subservient manner with a low tone. "Yes, Sir Arthur¡­" ¡­ Obelisk Infirmary, Rigel Building Freya was lying on a hospital bed due to what happened, although she regained her consciousness already after consuming medium-grade health and stamina potions, she still needed some time to recover. A man with deep ck hair and deep blue eyes was holding her hand, then the man spoke with a proud tone. "You did well." "Yes, Oppa¡­" she smiled at her Oppa''s words, beside him were Amelie Rose and Amery who came with him to visit Freya. After that, they left Freya to sleep for her to take more rest. Russell only managed to visit her because he''s her brother and due to her condition, while Amelie and Amery were A-1 students, living in the same dormitory with her younger sister. "That bastard¡­" the usual cheerful Amelie Rose said, clearly expressing her displeasure with what happened, then she looked at Russell on her side. Russell said, using telepathy as a benefit of having a Chaospanion. Amelie''s voice rang in his head, and without much choice with her determined tone, Russell didn''t reply anymore as a sign of agreement. Amery, who was walking beside them ''did not'' feel that something was amiss especially with quiet Amelie because she also felt a myriad of emotions about what happened. ¡­ 2 AM, Gaia Building, Dormitories for the A-1 students of the third year. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 The bluish moon illuminated a room, matching the serenity of the night then, a brown-haired man with yellowish eyes, with a height of 172 cm was lying on his bed, sleeping soundly without any care in the world. It was none other than Kevin Springer! Beside the sleeping Kevin was a man with deep ck hair and deep blue eyes, and a woman with pinkish hair and reddish eyes, they were standing as their gaze locked on the sleeping man. At the same time, the sound of notifications appeared in front of the two individuals. [Your Trait: Nihility has concealed the surroundings!] [Your Trait: Nihility has concealed the surroundings!] Chapter 50 Petty Revenge Inside the certain dormitory room, standing beside the sleeping Kevin Springer was Russell Moon, and his firstpanion in regards to ''Chaos'', Amelie Rose who sessfully made a contract with the unknown Constetion with the Cosmic Title of ''Lady of Shaded Spade''; thus Amelie gained immense change. Russell Moon didn''t have a problem with sneaking to the dormitory with the ''Mask of Night'', but he didn''t use it to sneak into this man''s ce rather they came to an agreement; Russell, and Amelie to use one of her new skill: Spade Warp! But ording to the description of Spade Warp (Unholy), she needed to see first the location of the ''target end destination'' which referred to Kevin''s dorm room; thus she and Russell took a stroll around first near the Gaia Building like a stalker, but they maintained a certain distance, and with Russell Moon''s improved eyesight especially at night, he pointed out the location of Kevin''s dormitory room, prompting Amelie to look at it resulting for meeting the condition to travel inside with Spade Warp. ? Luckily, Kevin Springer''s dormitory room windows were not facing the outside of the Academy, but the other way around, or else they would resort to other means to intrude. ¡­ Russell Moon didn''t have a n for something like ''petty revenge'', but during the ''Mock Battle'', if Kevin Springer didn''t attempt to hit her younger sister in her unconscious state, he would just let it go as what happened prior to that was formal, and based on the rules set even with the biased referee. Although the ''Kick Blink'' effect of the High Pugilist Skill: Battle Locking (D) has an ''automatic'' kick upon activation, it could be stopped with good control. ''You better be d that you managed to control that¡­'' Russell almost face-palmed with some clich¨¦ characters he was familiar with as an author of his unpublished novel, and as a reader of webnovels in his previous life. But remembering the future characters as well as variables that didn''t originally exist, his mind was almost adrift. Russell spoke via telepathy, asking Amelie for their ''petty revenge'' to be put into ce. Beforeing here, they already thought of the n they are going to implement. Instinctive wicked smiles formed on their expressions as Russell almostugh out loud as he recalled the n. Then he felt slightly rmed with Amelie saying such a thing with a straight face and wicked smile. ''Maybe I got used to her cheerful attitude¡­'' Russell silently thought inwardly. ~ Pa! Pa! Pa! Pa! Pa! An acupuncture procedure sounded inside the absolute concealed dorm room. Russell Moon just used the skill he got from the Dice of Chaos, and with the blessing of the mysterious Egg, Void Acupuncture! Void Acupuncture (Passive) The acupuncture points serve an important role in a yer''s body as these points called meridians are synonymous with the cycle of one''s life. Rank: EX Cost: 0 Chaos Mana Effects: - Automatically learns the urate locations of one''s acupuncture points or meridians and their corresponding significance. - You can choose to directly press the meridians of one''s soul, or just the physical body. - Attacking one''s soul using this skill will result in the target being onatose for two weeks as the soul can recover on its own as long as it''s not corrupted. - You can infuse ''Chaos Aura'' in your fingers as you use this skill. Russell Moon recalled the information about the Skill: Void Acupuncture. He didn''t infuse chaos in his fingers because that would result in Kevin''s corruption, turning into an abomination. He nced at Amelie, and nodded at her, cueing her to do her part. ¡­ [Activating the Skill: Shade Transformation] This was her first time using the Unique Skill she acquired by signing a contract with the ''Lady of Shaded Spade. Suddenly, her body turned incorporeal which exudes an ethereal and serene dark blue aura as she started to float in the air. Her reddish eyes turned deep ck, as well as her pinkish hair, then she felt weightlessness as she moved in the air, wriggling around slightly. Russell''s mouth was agape with the sight as this was his first time seeing something like ''ghost'', ''wraith'' or shade, whatever that was ssified as. ¡­ Amelie Rose looked at Russell, then the two nodded with each other. With that tacit signal, Amelie headed inside Kevin Springer''s body. She used the ''Possession'' effect of her Unique Skill! After the both of them silently determined that Kevin''s Tenacity and Willpower stats were not that high with the use of ''Status Appraisal'' skill, thus meeting the condition for possession. It was Amelie in Kevin''s body who woke up, then walked to the summoned portal. Russell just nodded at her as they moved into the spade-shaped portal. Amelie in Kevin''s body stopped in her tracks and looked behind her when she saw Russell grab some things first. Then she almost broke out inughter with the sight reflected in her now deep ck eyes. ¡­ [Your Trait: Nihility has concealed the surroundings!] [Your Trait: Nihility has concealed the surroundings!] They arrived at ''some ce'', then Russell spoke through Telepathy after tidying up some things on the ground. After Amelie heard Russell''s voice, she did her part and then left Kevin Springer''s body as she appeared beside Russell with her Shade form. [Deactivating the Skill: Shade Transformation] After the skill deactivation, her pinkish hair and reddish eyes that turned deep ck regained their original color. Russell said, informing Amelie of thest step of the ''petty revenge''. Understanding what he meant, Amelie turned around as she looked at the bluish moon in the night sky that illuminates the surroundings which exudes a serene atmosphere. Russell spoke, turning around as he was prompted to look, too at the beautiful, bluish moon in the night sky as it gave him a vibe as if the world was at peace. [Activating Skill: Spade Warp] Russell Moon and Amelie Rose Merveil vanished from their spot. ¡­ Sunday, early in the morning, at the Obelisk Tracking Field Groups of students came to the Obelisk Tracking Field to do some morning exercises. They wereposed of first years, second years, and third years. It was their routine to exercise and train during weekends as they were aiming to be a part of a famous guild of their choice, or at least prospective guilds that were not so far behind whenpared to the ''famous guilds.'' "Hey, who is that?" A student in his first year, running with hispanion spoke. "Huh? What are you talking about?" Hispanion asked, wondering, and then his nce followed hispanion''s as he saw a man lying in the middle of the wide Obelisk Tracking Field¡­ "Is he sleeping?" "It seems so¡­" Spoke the student who noticed it first. After looking for a second and two, causing to be momentarily dazed at the sight... "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" "HAHAHAHAHAHA! What the hell man!? He brought pillows and a nket!" Laughter between the two students reverberated throughout the Obelisk Tracking Field, prompting other students who don''t have any idea what was funny to look at them with a myriad of emotions, but mostly confusion. Then one of the students who is near the two students whoughed out loud asked, "Hey, you two, what''s funny?" Theughing students, who held their abdomens as they stopped running because of the hrious situation, looked behind and said, "Look over there!" Spoke by the one who discovered the oddity in the middle of the Obelisk Tracking Field as he pointed his fingers at the location of the sleeping man. "What? Pffftttt!" Realizing what he saw, the student who asked the duo blurted out as it was followed by a restrainedugh. Other students who took notice of what they were talking about looked in the direction of their gazes as they began to discover the source of the sudden bursts ofughter. The third-year students also notice as one of them asked, "Hey, isn''t that Kevin?" ¡­ Third-year students who were familiar with Kevin surrounded him as he was lying on the ground with a pillow that cushioned his head, and a nket covering his whole body. "Hey! Wake up!" A brown-haired man with brown eyes, at least 172 cm sat in front of Kevin Springer, it was the one who presided over the ''Mock Battle'' yesterday named Ryan Cullen! "Hey! Wake up, you m*therf*cker!" ''What the hell is wrong with this bastard, inconveniencing other people!'' Ryan Cullen thought as his patience was about to hit rock bottom. "You f*cker!" After some time of waking Kevin up who was clearly alive and breathing, Ryan''s patience hit its end as he removed the nket covering Kevin, and then¡­ "Gasp!" "AGHHHH!" Various reactions of disgust were painted among the girls both familiar and unfamiliar with Kevin. The boys also had different reactions, but mostlyughter or contemtion aboutparison¡­ "THIS DISGUSTING F*CKERRRRRR!!!!" Ryan Cullen''s anger resounded as he looked at Kevin''s naked body. "WAKE THE F*CK UP!" ~ BANG! Ryan kicked him as the veins on his forehead bulged as if a cloud of smoke wasing out of his head. ''I can''t believe this bastard is the same as me, wanting to join Sir Arthur''s faction! I''d be doom with him!'' After that kick, Kevin slowly opened his eyes, dazed for a second or two, then he looked around as he asked inwardly. ''What kind of dream is this?'' "Kevin!" With a shout, he was jolted awake in his trance-like state as his eyes opened wide with the realization of what was happening. When he tried to move reflexively, he couldn''t move his legs and arms. Then, when he tried to say something, no voice came out of his mouth. ''Wh-what''s this!?'' ¡­ Some distance away from themotion in the Obelisk Tracking Field, Russell Moon, Amelie Rose Merveil, Amery Blight, and Freya Moon who recoveredte in the evening were watching what was transpiring, having different thoughts aside from the two who orchestrated the ''petty revenge.'' Chapter 51 Weaver Sunday Afternoon, Disciplinary Committee Weekly Training "Good afternoon, everyone. I''ve taken care of some personal things yesterday; thus, didn''t manage to attend the ''Mock Battle'', but I''ve received reports from the Student Council President and every participant will receive their corresponding report or feedback. These reports contained evaluations done by the Student Council President, as well as the Vice-President of the Disciplinary Committee. The reason I am only informing all of you about this right now is that I don''t want all or maybe some of you to be conscious that you were being evaluated..." It was spoken by the tinum-haired woman with ruby eyes, Azalea Vermillion while standing in front of every Disciplinary Committee member including Freya Moon, who recovered gradually and quickly with the help of a medium-grade health and stamina potion, as well as Amery Blight who was sitting beside her. Although the Disciplinary Committee was assigned of keeping other students in case of intractable emotions through provocation especially bullying between the aristocratic or people with high social standing or ''rank'' as a yer and themoners who were talented enough to be epted in the Obelisk Academy. ... "Here... Here..." Sounds of stacks of paper were being distributed by a woman in her seventeen or eighteen; she has grayish hair that seemingly stemmed from the gray ashes and light blue eyes that were almost synonymous with the cloudless morning sky. She has average stature as a woman. After a few seconds of distribution of "individual evaluation reports", Azalea''s voice thanked the woman who did her job as she wore a gentle, alluring smile. " Thank you, Aisha." Aisha nodded as a response as she ce a remaining ''paper report'' on the table in front of the Disciplinary Committee Office where Azalea was standing behind as her hands were on the table. ''Aisha Whispercrest'' Freya recalled the name of the woman who is the current Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee. As various thoughts started to wander her mind, she was snapped back to reality by Azalea''s voice, but this time, it has a curious tone. "What''s this?" Although it was a semi-whisper inquisitive tone, everyone inside heard her as she sent a gaze at Aisha Whispercrest who took her sit in the front. She nced at the ''paper report'' on the table, then she picked it up and took a look at it. "Who is ''Kevin Springer''?" "Pffffttt!" Augh almost erupted with the question Azalea had asked. Not just one, but some Disciplinary Committee Members who were present earlier in the morning at the Obelisk Tracking Field knew of the embarrassment or hrious circumstances that transpired. It felt like that particr ground of the prestigious Obelisk Academy had been tainted, extinguishing the ground''s pureness. Some avoided looking at the front reflexively. Some looked down as if they were the ones whomitted such acts. Some women who managed to take a nce at that moment of rity turned their expressions into a look of repulsion when they recalled the seemingly psychological attack. Some had a curious look at the reactions of some of their co-members as they were not there at that time. This was also the case for the Disciplinary Committee President as she temporarily ''left'' the Obelisk Academy under the permission of Vice-Chancellor Dexter Rainfall due to some personal matters. Azalea who noticed the odd reactions from the students asked with an inquisitive tone, "He is absent... What happened?" With her question, the students who knew hesitated to open their mouths, even Aisha who happened to be there at that time avoided Azalea''s gaze. Azalea, who saw Aisha''s odd behavior called her. "Aisha..." "Th-that..." Aisha almost broke a sweat even if she was not in dungeon raiding. ''This is harder than raiding strayed dungeons.'' Aishampooned. After some time, she recalled everything that had happened as Azalea''s face distorted. ... After the meeting with the Disciplinary Committee, Freya Moon and Amery Blight walked together as they went back to their respective dormitory rooms. With a question, Amery unexpectedly broke the silence between the two. "Have you read your evaluation?" Freya noticed for some time that Amery was not exactly an aloof, and unapproachable person. Although she was exuding a cold atmosphere from time to time for some reason; she could be approached and talked with normally, but one should expect that her response would have a monotonous tone as if it was ''robotic.'' After deliberating for some time, Freya answered her without looking at Amery walking beside her. "No,ter in my room. How about you? They took their own and match each other''s pace with slow, and slightly heavy steps as they passed by a Cafeteria where some students bought their afternoon meals. " Yes." Amery replied sinctly, recalling the contents of her ''evaluation report''. Freya fought second to thest in yesterday''s Mock Battle, but before that, she witnessed the fight of Amery first. With the difference in ranks and overall stats, as well as experiences, Amery was overwhelmed at first, but at some point, she managed to fight ''almost'' on equal footing with her opponent, but this still resulted in her loss. ''She seems stronger than before.'' Freya thought as she remembered their first meeting at the Disciplinary Trial Exam during the ''battle royale.'' "Freya... do you think it''s weird? After your fight with that bastard yesterday, he got humiliated in front of almost everyone..." Freya''s slow, and slightly heavy pace turned ''heavy'' as she almost stopped in her tracks. She recalled what happened ''after'' she passed out. Kevin Springer, a third-year, attempted to attack her even though she was unconscious. She recounted the details Amelie Rose and her older brother had told her after she woke up in the hospital bed within the Obelisk Infirmary. "If I think about it, it was weird, but from other students'' perspectives, especially those who weren''t involved with him would think otherwise." She spoke her opinion on the matter as she couldn''t just assume it was done because of her especially since she was lying on the hospital bed thatte night, and rested until early morning in her dormitory room. "You''re right..." Amery replied as her thoughts adrift. ... "See you tomorrow." Amery nodded at Freya''s words as they bid each other goodbye. Their dormitory room number corresponds to their student ranking. As Freya Moon''s rank was 26 and Amery''s rank was 27, they were basically neighbors as their dorm room doors were at least 10 meters apart. "Evaluation Report: "Student Name: Amery Blight "Section: A - 1 " Strengths: She has refined swordsmanship that can be considered exceptional in her year. She has a quick judgment of her opponent''s next moves; thus, grasping the next appropriate move. "Weaknesses: Her thoughts seemed to be adrift sometime during the fight causing her to leave some openings for her opponent." ... Amery Blight read again the ''Evaluation Report'' as her expression turned into a frown before she ced the ''paper report'' on her study desk beside her bed. She slumped down at her bed, feeling bored with the world as she browsed again the various System messages that notified her recently. Numerous holographic screens appeared in her sight. [This ''Target'' does NOT pose a danger to you!] [This ''Target'' does NOT pose a danger to you!] [This ''Target'' does pose a danger to you!] [This ''Target'' does NOT pose a danger to you!] ... Recalling the identities of the ''Targets'' the System was referring to... Amery''s expression turned solemn. The moment she became a ''Blood Swordsman'', she received a Unique Skill called ''Blood Instinct'' that was S+ rank. This skill allows her to determine if the ''targeted person'' was dangerous or not. And by doing so, she would receive subsequent messages about the possible actions she could enforce at that moment if the ''target'' was deemed dangerous, but this only works if the ''target'' was ranked higher than her with a maximum difference of three. As Amery became E+ rank after bing a Blood Swordsman, she almost managed to went toe-to-toe with her opponent during the Mock Battle whose rank was D. ''Russell Moon... Amelie Rose...'' She ingrained in her thoughts the ''yers'' to whom she used the ''Blood Instinct'' skill. The first System message was about Russell Moon; the ''Blood Instinct'' skill told her via System that he was not dangerous to her. ''Maybe it''s just his vibes... he seems mature for his age, making me feel on guard as if he''s hiding something... but I guess it was nothing.'' Amery instinctively felt before that Russell was a man of secrets... but after she received the Blood Instinct... ''Maybe I''m just overthinking...'' Amery thought as she nced at thest three System messages... It was all about Amelie Rose! Amery used ''Blood Instinct'' on her, deeming Amelie Rose as ''NOT'' dangerous... but one time just recently, another effect of ''Blood Instinct'' she didn''t expect to be triggered went haywire just. it was the automatic activation of the skill if she was near any random target that was deemed ''Highly Dangerous.'' ''Amelie Rose was deemed dangerous yesterday during the Mock Battle as she watched with Russell... but earlier in the morning, the System said she was NOT.'' One of the downsides of the ''Blood Instinct'' was that its criteria for deeming someone dangerous or NOT were unknown. "Strange..." Amery muttered in the lonely dorm room where the cold atmosphere was amplified by her presence as she decided to take a nap, waiting for dinner. ... Amelie Rose''s Dormitory Room "This is really amazing!" Amelie, almost shouted as if she was in the ecstasy of wonder while alone in her dorm room. Although it''s been a few days, she managed to explore her skills. "I can''t believe I could manipte my Status Window!" She browsed her Skills as she recalled manipting her Status Window before she went to the Obelisk Tracking Field earlier in the morning; it was a few hours after their ''petty revenge.'' ... Room 2, Gaia Building. Inside the spacious dormitory room where the privileges of being an A-1 student were evident. "You can''t join here anymore!" Shouted by a blonde man with blue eyes that seemed gentle in the public eye, but full of conceit within, just like right now. He was looking at the prostrating man on the ground as the man spoke... "Si-Sir Arthur! I don''t know what really happened... Please give me another chance..." It was Kevin Springer. There were other students with him, looking at him with disgust. "Another chance, you say?" Arthur Wolfson stood up from his seat and approached the prostrating Kevin Springer who didn''t dare to look ahead or eye to eye with the face of the approaching man. Kevin heard the footsteps and after a few seconds, he replied... "Ye-yes! Sir Arthur... please!" After three or four seconds of silence after his plea, he unconsciously tried to look up as he saw a pair of feet nearly in front of him. ~ Bang! A kick sent him off for a few meters as though his neck would fly off with the strength exerted. Arthur walked towards Kevin who he just kicked, then grabbed his hair as he sat in front of him. "I''m a generous man... you see... So, I''ll give you another chance. Find out who did that to you... and report it to me... "You''re a talented man... but I don''t want someone who couldn''t clean his mess. " If you failed, kiss your entry at my ''Weaver Faction'' goodbye." ~ Bang! Another kicknded on Kevin''s face before he passed out. ... At Chaos Realm, Night Castle where the Primordial Goddess of Night, Empress of Chaos resides. A ck, ominous, incorporeal ''Shade'' figure that exudes a ''Deathly'' aura genuflected in front of the Goddess. "My Goddess of Night, Empress of Chaos, I have done the task you hadmanded me to do. "It was deep in ''her'' soul, the qualification ''We'' are looking for. But it will take some time to manifest." Said the ''Shaded'' incorporeal figure in a manner of absolute reverence. "You mean ''You'' are looking for?" The Goddess of Night asked rhetorically. "Pardon my short-sightedness, my Goddess. I''m truly grateful for your rmendation." The genuflecting ''Shade'' incorporeal figure said, not daring to look at the Goddess. After a few seconds of silence, the Goddess replied... "You''re wee." Without saying anything, the ''Shade'' figure vanished as if it wasn''t there from the beginning. ... After some time when the Shade figure finished its business, the Goddess recalled something as she muttered... "What a ''poor Elf''." Chapter 52 Strange Dreams Two weeks had passed since the incident with Kevin Springer, it caused him so much embarrassment that he almost felt like going crazy at any moment. Although it was a loss for Arthur Wolfson to let go of a talented man like him, it won''t incur disadvantages to the Weaver Faction that much¡­ because Kevin was receable. "F*ck!" Kevin Springer blurted out while he was sitting on his bed, alone in his dorm room. His hands were touching, at the same time scratching his head as a sign of irritation. The bluish moon illuminated his dormitory room, adding a feeling of serenity to the atmosphere, contradicting what Kevin felt at the moment. After some time, he recalled his investigations for the past few days; he suspected that it had to do with the girl he fought and crushed during the Mock Bottle two weeks ago that was supervised by the Student Council President Arthur Wolfson but as he confirmed the condition of the girl, and the strength she showed that time, it was extremely impossible. ''How the f*ck can a find the culprit¡­ I don''t even have a suspect!'' For a few days, even though he didn''t fully recover yet from the seemingly eternal embarrassment, he observed the girl who he fought that time, and after that, herpanions, and came to a conclusion to rule them out. Although he witnessed one of herpanions fought toe-to-toe against a senior during the Mock Battle, it couldn''t exin the situation he experience such as appearing in the middle of the Obelisk Tracking Field, bypassing the guards that were at least A- rank. Although he wasn''t the kind of man who would just bully a person out of nowhere, the same thing cannot be said if he''d get benefits or something simr which means he couldn''t suspect anyone other than the girl whom he fought, and herpanions. Suddenly, the words of the Student Council President shed in his mind. ''Azalea won''t being in the Mock Battle, so I''ll be tasked to supervise it. If you have a conscience in trampling the weak, forget joining my faction¡­'' He remembered Sir Arthur Wolfson''s words, the Student Council President who assigned lower-ranked students against the seniors during the Mock Battle. ''Tsk¡­ I have to join no matter what.'' Being a member of the Weaver Faction grants a yer longsting benefits, especially after they leave the Obelisk Academy. Weaver Faction members were tasked across the Olympia to be scattered like ''threads'', joining different guilds in disguise, discovering their weaknesses then reporting them to the Faction itself. In other words, Weaver Faction specializes in spying! This Faction was under a particr guild that aims to absorb any other guilds at the moment of weakness! After absorbing the crumbling guilds, especially those whock power, the existing members will be forced into a ''contract'' ofbor of various kinds. After some thinking, a smile that shows desperation appeared on Kevin''s face. ¡­ ''Oppa, I dreamed about something for like 6 consecutive nights recently¡­ I was floating in the middle of a space of pure ckness that feels like resonating with me, then after that, the dream setting changed, I was holding a peculiar sword as bodies were kneeling on the ground in front of me¡­ some were like humans, but others were something I have no idea about. I couldn''t see their faces as they were covered by a ck fog, but their hands and feet were chained, and something tells me they were dangerous¡­ so I had the urge that I need to kill them.'' Russell Moon recalled in detail what his younger sister, Freya Moon had told her before they returned to their respective dormitories. Russell was standing by the window, looking at the night sky where the bluish moon illuminated the world and almost every part of it. His deep blue eyes contained a myriad of inexplicable emotions. After an unknown amount of time, a sigh escaped from his mouth as he remembered the details of the novel he wrote in his previous life. Every time something happened within his sights that were unexpected, he couldn''t help but have an existential crisis, it felt like his thoughts were experiencing dissociation even after his 16 years of existence as a reincarnator. Although he knew what that dream implied, he couldn''t believe that it was his younger sister who received it. With that dream, Russell realized that he didn''t need to grant the Chaos Trait anymore to her, but felt like he should still do it because of its benefits such as the Nihility trait. After some time, Russell muttered with an ambiguous expression as he looked towards the illuminating bluish moon, feeling captivated by it. "Death''s Executioner¡­" ¡­ "Baby! Baby! Come here!!!" Said a beautiful woman with auburn hair and brown eyes, looking at a young girl running up to her with the same hair and eye features. "Mommyyyyy!!!" The young girl at the age of 6 spread her hands to her mother who sat to match the level of her child as she wait for the affection of embrace. The mother received her child in her embrace as both of their warm bodies touched each other, sharing the love between the mother and the young girl. "Babyyyy!" She lifted up her child in the air with her two hands under each armpit of the young girl then kissed her child many times on her cheeks. She then looked at her child with a beautiful smile and said¡­ "Babyyyy¡­" The young girl who also smiles back looked at her mother who was holding her up and spoke¡­ "Yes, Mom???" After a few seconds, the expression of the mother turned into something that expresses the proudness of her child. "Please¡­" ¡­ In the middle of the night, Samantha Hall woke up as she suddenly felt emotional for some reason especially a feeling of nostalgia and longing. "How long has it been..?" She muttered as she sat on her bed reflexively, she then recalled the memories with her mother as she mumbled in a weak tone. "Where are you, mom¡­?" It was more or less than 10 years ago when her mother disappeared due to a mysterious cause, it was not only her mother but across the world, it randomly happened everywhere. It was not only the human race that experienced random disappearances but even other races such as Elves and Dwarves, although humanity was not sure about other races except the two friendly races whom humanity had contact with, some people assumed especially researchers that it urred to every race, known or unknown to humanity. She looked at the bluish moon in the night sky by the window as it exuded a serene atmosphere, matching what she was feeling right now and after an unknown period of time of contemtion, she couldn''t go back to sleep and decided to head to the ''Exclusive Training Grounds'' reserved for A-1 students of first years in the Rigel Building where connections with one another could be created. ¡­ At Exclusive Training Grounds, Rigel Building Samantha Hall arrived after a few minutes of preparing as she couldn''t go back to sleep. There, she saw a woman whose deep ck hair was ponytailed and has deep blue eyes that resembled the deepest waters like a sapphire. ''Freya¡­'' It was one of her ssmates, at the same time, the woman whose older brother was the one Samantha found genuine and had no hidden motives. Freya Moon, who saw her just nodded her head as she continued swinging a training sword. Samantha retracted her gaze as she looked at the wall clock attached to the side of the training ground¡­ ''1 A.M ¡­'' Samantha said inwardly¡­ After she woke up due to her dream, she forgot to check the time in her room as she hurriedly prepare to leave because she felt like the serene atmosphere in her room would just make her feel more sentimental the longer she stays there. No one was around this time of the night as most students were sleeping or just going to sleep even though there were ssester. Samantha picked up a lowest quality training sword and walked towards a training dummy near Freya. Training swords have different qualities, but even the lowest quality won''t easily break. She swung her training sword lightly towards the sturdy training dummy. ~ Bang! The sword broke with the swing as she throw its remains on the side, then picked up another. ~ Bang! The sword broke again with just the light swing, then she heard a voice on her side¡­ "You are really strong¡­ you could easily break that kind of training sword." Training Swords for A-1 students were ranging from lowest quality, low, mid, intermediate, and highest quality. These swords were made using different kinds of woods that also have different weights, durability, and mana conductivity. It was designed for A-1 students to check their progress in terms of physical strength and how proficient they were in controlling their strength. After a second or two of silence, Samantha said with a curious tone¡­ "Can''t sleep?" Freya replied casually, "Yeah¡­ I feel weak¡­ haha." Herugh contains sadness. After her loss in the Mock Battle, she shed tears for some time unknown to her older brother until it was her older brother who consoled her recently causing her to breakdown as she unconsciously put her face on her older brother''s chest. She felt helpless with the loss that she wants to be stronger even though she knew that it wasn''t an easy process, and losing was normal in this kind of world¡­ she just couldn''t bear it¡­ She also asked her older brother what he thought about her consecutive same dreams, but he only looked away, lost in thought. She remembered her benefit as a Disciplinary Committee member, the protection she received against other students, she pondered for some time recently and asked herself if she really needed that kind of protection. It caused the three bullies in her ss to avoid her and Amery, though they were looking at them sometimes with hostility, they couldn''t do or even say anything offensive. ¡­ Samantha, who listened to Freya''s words fell silent as various thoughts flowed in her mind¡­ ''Feeling weak¡­'' Although Samantha didn''t watch the Mock Battle as she had no interest in such events that don''t concern the whole Obelisk Academy, her emotions stirred with Freya''s words. ''I felt helpless, too¡­'' She recalled the disappearance of her mother for years and even today, the cause was unknown. She felt helpless that she couldn''t do anything, even thinking of possibilities was out of her scope because, after the Emergence that turned everything upside down, a person couldn''t just think about what''s possible or not anymore, especially about things that were too mysterious because just thinking about it would be a waste of time unless shreds of evidence wereid in front of one''s table. To forget what she was feeling, she casually asked Freya¡­ "Do you want to spar?" "Spar¡­" Freya muttered, and after a few seconds of thinking, she nodded. ¡­ After a few minutes of sparring, Samantha looked at Freya who slumped on the ground as she casually said¡­ "You will only feel weak if you are against the strong, and fighting a strong person does not mean you are truly weak. There are only three kinds of oue in real-life battle; first, Death, second, Survival, and third, Traumatize to the point of insanity¡­" Freya who heard Samantha''s words wore a nk look on her face as she said after some contemtion while still slumped on the ground. "You''re like my Oppa¡­" Samantha who heard that was momentarily lost at the moment as she said¡­ "I only talk when I feel talking¡­ by the way, how''s Russell? I rarely see him at the Obelisk Tracking Field recently." "He''s fine¡­" After a short pause, Freya suddenly asked, hoping to catch Samantha off-guard. "Are you interested in Oppa?" "I am." Samantha said sinctly, causing Freya to be momentarily dazed. "Wh-what? Why?" ''I was the one who was caught off-guard! How could say that with a straight face!? Your reply was quick, too!" Freyampooned inwardly. To clean up the misunderstanding, Samantha opened her thoughts to Freya as she spoke in a casual, but gentle tone¡­ "Don''t misunderstand. I''m sure you know my background, at least on the surface¡­ People whoe or came to me first have different motives¡­ but when I first encountered Russell, your older brother, at the Obelisk Tracking Field, he looks in¡­ super in especially during our first conversation, that instinctively tell me that he had no interest or hidden motives against me¡­ he didn''t approach me with a smile¡­ you know what that means, most people who approached me had different businesses, thus deliberately showing a first good impression." Freya who listened to Samantha got a gist of it¡­ ''She''s right, most of the time, Oppa wouldn''t even talk if you don''t talk to him first¡­ but sometimes, he rarely approaches or starts a conversation first¡­'' "You''re surprisingly talkative." Freya said with a smile, causing Samantha to frown slightly as she said¡­ "I said, I only talk when I feel like it." ¡­ After some time, their sparring or one-sided beating ended as Freya was in tatters due to Samantha''s shes as she sat on the ground with evident exhaustion, but thankfully, she had mid-grade potions as one of the benefits of being a Disciplinary Committee. [You have consumed a Mid-Grade Stamina Potion] [You have consumed a Mid-Grade Health Potion] After some rest, her energy was replenished as if she didn''t train and got beaten up by Samantha at all. [Your Stamina is full!] [Your Health is full!] "You''re not gonna go?" Freya asked as she looked at Samantha who was swinging her training sword. Samantha shook her head. "Okay, I''ll buy breakfast first! See ya!" Freya was relieved with her encounter with Samantha as she walked outside the Rigel Building. It was already 3:30 A.M, and Obelisk Cafeterias were open 24/7. ~Yawn¡­ She stretched her arms up as she was walking in an alleyway as a detour to reach the nearest Cafeteria. The night sky and the bluish moon were still illuminating the surroundings. The silent night that contained uncountable stars was still shining, giving a solemn atmosphere. As Freya was walking while looking at the sky, a hand with strength she couldn''t resist gripped her mouth as if to suffocate her, then a familiar voice entered her ears. "Do as I say or I''ll make your weakpanions'' life hell before I graduate or even after I graduate!" ''It was the voice of the one I fought!'' Freya remembered the mocking voice, asking her to surrender during the Mock Battle. Floods of thoughts flowed inside her mind as she heard again the voice behind her. "I''ll let go of your mouth, but if you scream¡­ prepare for the consequences..." Freya ruminated over his words as she inferred something¡­ ''He has backing in the academy¡­'' Only a fool would do such a thing inside the Obelisk Academy if they have no one backing them. Freya thought about the safety of Amelie, Amery, and her Oppa¡­ she understood what this was about, even though she wasn''t the one who did the thing that embarrassed him. After a few seconds, Freya nodded, then Kevin Springer released his grip on her mouth then he said¡­ "Don''t look back, I''ll maintain a meter or two distance away from you. Go to the Gaia building, and wait for me at the entrance." Kevin Springer said to wait for him because Freya won''t be able to go inside the Gaia Building which houses the third year without proper reason, thus waiting for him to apany her would be the logical thing to do. Freya obeyed him as she started to walk first maintaining a two-meter distance away from him¡­ Without even a second or two had passed, a figure at the end of the alleyway was standing, and under the illumination of the bluish moon, a man with deep ck hair, and deep blue eyes entered the sight of Freya and Kevin Springer. Kevin instantly recognized the figure as thepanion of the girl she fought as he said instinctively as he was keeping his distance from Freya¡­ "Stay there!" Freya stayed on her spot as she saw her older brother with inexplicable emotions in portrayed by his deep blue eyes; she felt worried. "Hey you, perhaps you don''t know what this is about¡­ but I need this girl toe with me right now." Kevin said to the man with an emotionless expression, then after a few seconds, the man replied with a cold tone. "I understand." Freya and Kevin felt different emotions causing them to wear different expressions upon hearing the man''s words. The former''s expression wore an inexplicable one as she couldn''t understand what she just heard, while thetter smiled at the words as he said¡­ "Good¡­ good¡­ haha! Even if you don''t understand, you won''t be able to do anything anyway, you can''t kill anyone in h-¡­" "But I can." A cold voice of a woman entered Kevin Springer''s ears as he couldn''t finish his words as a mouthful of blood gushed out of his mouth. He looked reflexively at his chest as a handle of a ''ck staff'' pierced him from behind. Then the woman pulled out the staff quickly, then pierce it into Kevin''s neck as the light on the man''s eyes dimmed and lost its life. Chapter 53 Opening Up "But I can." Freya Moon reflexively nced behind as she heard a voice she was familiar with, but at the same time unfamiliar as its coldness sent chills down her spine. There, she saw Kevin Springer, who she fought against in the Disciplinary Committee Mock Battle two weeks ago, pierced through his chest and neck by the handle of a ''ck staff'' that her ssmate was holding. "A-Amelie..?" Freya couldn''t believe her eyes as she felt myriads of emotions such as gratefulness for saving her from whatever she was supposed to go through, and she was shocked because of Amelie''s demeanor which was very different from what she was familiar with. In front of her was Amelie Rose, her ssmate, her seatmate, as well as a friend who was very cheerful and smiling most of the time, but right now, she killed a person in front of her without a shred of hesitation. Her eyes looked at the dead body of the man she fought with. The person who crushed her, and made her feel weak to the point of breakdown in front of her older brother. The person who attempted to hit her even though she was unconscious after herst struggle at that time. She knows what kind of world this was... but it was her first time seeing a dead person in front of her... No, ''how'' someone killed a person in front of her. She almost threw up with the sight, but she managed to resist it. She then heard a voice from behind as the footsteps entered her ears due to the man approaching her. She looked back, seeing her older brother in front of her. Although she couldn''t understand what happened just now, she just felt relieved by her older brother''s presence. "Are you okay?" Her older brother''s voice turned normal unlike the unfamiliar tone earlier before Amelie stabbed Kevin Springer from behind unexpectedly. "Oppa..." It would be a lie if she wasn''t curious about what just happened. How did Amelie, her friend do that? How did they know that this was going to happen? Howe she felt a different kind of closeness between her older brother and Amelie? Various thoughts flowed in her mind as her curiosity grew. Although she was an observant person and thought about her older brother and Amelie''s reaction during the Obelisk Tracking Field Incident a few weeks ago, causing her from making guesses inwardly because the timing of Kevin Springer''s circumstances that corresponded to Mock Battle was just too coincidental to believe. She reined her thoughts as she was momentarily at loss for words. Her gaze alternatelynded on her older brother and Amelie. She easily concluded that their arrival here was not a coincidence, and they didn''te here separately. Curious about what to do next, she heard her older brother say... "Let''s clean up, Ceru..." An alien-looking dark blue slime with shark-like teeth entered Freya''s sight. This time, she couldn''t bear it as she threw up, but almost nothing, but only liquid came out of her mouth, it was potion residue that she drank before she left for breakfast that turned into attempted kidnapping then someone getting killed. Suddenly, she felt her surroundings turn into a quiet atmosphere then after five seconds, she looked again, only to see that there was no more body on the ground, even the blood that gushed out from the man''s chest and neck were sucked out like some sort of vacuum walked by. "Freya..." It was Amelie... it was the first word she said to her ever since she came here. Amelie''s voice was kind of different, it contained anxiety and anticipation. "Let''s go to my dorm first..." Amelie said as they started to walk under the night sky where countless stars were shining, and a bluish moon that illuminated almost everywhere. Russell who knew what to do next just followed suit. The night sky, countless stars, and the bluish moon were the only witnesses of what transpired in this certain alleyway. ... Rigel Building "We''re with him." Amelie said to one of the guards at the entrance of the Rigel Building as any non-A-1 students were not allowed entry without an appointment unless the person was apanied by an A-1 student like herself. ... In Room 31, Amelie''s Dormitory Room The siblings sat on the couch while Amelie sat on her bed, then after a few seconds of awkward silence, Freya initiated the conversation. "What now? Can you exin it to me?" Freya said, looking alternately at the two; Russell and Amelie, as her tone contained a bit of sadness for some reason. Russell, as an older brother, knew why Freya spoke like that. It wasn''t that long before she opened up to him, and cried in front of him. ''Sigh... I was nning on telling her on her birthday, but I guess this situation calls for it.'' Russell sighed inwardly, but he understood that Freya would be able to understand whatever information she would learn. "Okay... we already agreed to tell you..." Russell was referring to everything except being a reincarnator inside his own unpublished trash novel; for him, it was about the Chaos Realm, his journey towards the hidden dungeon, how he met the Goddess of Night, and what he acquired. And for Amelie, it was about her past... how she had experienced the underground business and the ''ck market''... and how she was ostracized, then sold by her family to some unknown ve broker. At the same time, her resolve to change, and how the ''certain Constetion'' was rted to Russell. Russell and Amelie agreed for different reasons, but the only same reason was ''for Freya.'' Amelie experienced a genuine friendship she wanted to never end, and because of that, she inferred that not hiding something from one another would be the time when she could call their friendship genuine. Russell knew that keeping secrets, especially from his older sister would only bring division in the long run. ''Stacks of lies equalsplete ruin.'' "So... where should I start..." Russell then recounted everything that he experienced, though not thoroughly to the point of telling his younger sister the treasures acquired, and so on. He focused on how he encountered the Hidden Dungeon called ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil'', of course, he didn''t speak about his reincarnation, at least now wasn''t the right time for it. Also, he told her about Kevin, that they ''anticipated'' that he woulde for her based on the previous two weeks of Kevin''s observation of them. He got desperate and had no time so he wanted to just grabbed Freya and use her in front of the double-faced Student Council President. Freya, who listened attentively to her older brother showed different expressions; shocked at what her older brother experienced and the knowledge about his contracted Constetion; angry for not being careful in some instances; she shot him pierce res as spent his money on something he barely used like the Crude Shortsword! But, Freya''s thoughts and heart were relieved upon hearing ''everything.'' Then, after some time, it was Amelie''s share of stories. Upon listening, especially about what Amelie experienced as a kid, Freya teared up for some reason... then she grew expectant when she heard about Amelie''s Body and Soul Reconstruction due to her brother''s Constetion''smand, and the Chaos Training Ground that a person could ess with Chaos Trait. "So... in other words... I''m weaker than the two of you." Freya felt gloomy, then after five seconds, she remembered her older brother''s reaction of being lost in thought when she asked him about her six consecutive ''same'' dreams! "Oppa, do you know something about the dream right??" Freya asked, pressing for an answer as she leaned closer to his brother, prompting Russell to lean back. "Yes... all I could tell you is that it''s a good thing." Russell remembered the information in his novel regarding his younger sister''s dream, where a person was in the midst of pure ckness, but feltfortable for some unknown reason, then with the setting changed, where the person was standing in front of yers of various races covered in ck fog, having the urged to kill them as they felt dangerous. This dream was symbolic, but its meaning was profound. ''I feel like everyone alongside me became or destined to be strong for some reason!!!'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he nced at Amelie and his younger sister with a deadpan expression. "Why couldn''t you tell me now, Oppa?" Freya asked, somewhat feeling gloomy. "I don''t want to spoil you." Russell spoke casually, but in a slightly expectant tone. Freya fell silent, but her expectations grew with her older brother''s words as she spoke... "Okay, Oppa! I trust you." She didn''t press on the matter anymore as she asked an expected question... "Oppa, are you going to use your Unique Skill on me?" Freya asked with a tone of expectation, but her older brother seemed lost in thought... again. "Oppa? "Yes?" "You''re lost in thought again." Russell fell silent as he felt like he forgot something and after some time, he recalled that he didn''t tell his younger sister and Amelie Rose about the ''World Announcements'' more than two weeks ago! ''I should set aside it for now because even I don''t know about the Egg itself. I was just tasked with its adventure.'' Russell thought as he set kept the information about his Reincarnation in his novel, and the ''World Announcements'' ambiguous corrtion with the unknown Egg. "Hey, you two, eat first." For some time, Amelie prepared three bacon sandwiches and a drink. Russell and Freya thanked her, grabbing their bacon sandwich on each separate te. After a minute of the sound of crunching, Freya repeated her question... "Oppa, are you going to use your Unique Skill on me? That''s what I said earlier when you were lost in thought again." Freya said before she grabbed a ss full of water and sipped it. "Yes, but not right now." Russell replied after drinking a ss of water. Out of a sudden, Freya asked a ''realistic'' question. "Oppa... Amelie... aren''t we going to get caught... you know?" It was about Kevin''s body. Russell initially used the Mask of Night before he appeared in front of him earlier, while Amelie snuck on the back using her Unique Skill: Shade Transformation. Russell fell in contemtion for some time, then he said... "It''s alright. No one''s going to find him, and point us." The ''petty revenge'' they did on Kevin Springer was just the first step of theid-out n because Russell and Amelie surmised that by doing that, Kevin would surely go after Freya. And by knowing Arthur Wolfson''s character, and the Weaver Faction, he would probably ''im'' the me himself to scare the other members of the faction that if they failed, they''ll vanish for mysterious reasons. But that was only the facade for other members as he would secretly task his trusted aids in the faction to investigate Kevin''s disappearance. Russell informed Amelie about the n of baiting the faction by letting the Student Council President pursue them in secret and do some cleanup. And even though, Weaver Faction has backers in the Obelisk Academy, Kevin wouldn''t dare to kidnap Freya in ces with security cameras because no one would believe him even if he point fingers at the one who asked him to look for the culprit that caused his embarrassment to redeem himself if he got caught by unaffiliated students or staff. ''Although it will take longer than expected to avoid mishaps.'' Russell recalled that in the novel that he wrote in his previous life, Arthur Wolfson''s backers were some known professors in the academy; causing Han Jiho and Anya to fail to include him with forcedbor cases. ... Early Morning, an hour before sunrise. Arthur Wolfson was waiting for Kevin Springer as he said that he knew who''s the culprit and would bring that person to him this morning. But after a few hours, Arthur knew that something went wrong. "I guess it''s no use to wait for a trash." Chapter 54 Unwritten Obelisk Academy Mantra The time flew by and two weeks had passed since Kevin Springer''s death; a month since the Obelisk Tracking Field Scandal. A few days after Kevin''s death, the information rumored by some ''anonymous'' students was that he ''dropped out'' and left the Obelisk Academy for some reason. Students who didn''t know anything that happened during that time believed that the rumors were true. There were various reactions or guesses to Kevin''s dropout, but most students say that he left the academy because he couldn''t bear the humiliation he sufferedst month when he ''got caught'' sleeping in the middle of the Obelisk Tracking Field, with pillows and nket, at the same time naked. During that moment when the rumors about Kevin Springer spread, Freya Moon who heard it first felt myriads of emotions as numerous thoughts flowed in her mind. Although she knew that her older brother and Amelie Rose were behind the Obelisk Tracking Field Incident and Kevin''s Death, the way the Obelisk Academy handled the matter somewhat exceeded her expectations. She realized that her older brother was right... That no one would look for Kevin''s dead body. Freya almost views the Obelisk Academy in a bad light, but Russell Moon, her older brother told her that wasn''t a good thing to generalize the situation or her perception of others because not everyone inside the Academy has malicious intent or goals, and some were genuinely taking their path to be a ''License yer'' after they graduated in the Obelisk Academy. A graduated Obelisk Academy student was guaranteed an offer or offers from various guilds, especially for those who were unaffiliated. Be it a ''Profession'' specialized in melee and rangebat, or a support-type and production ss specialized and necessary for a Guild. Freya also realized the true nature of the Student Council President Arthur Wolfson based on his older brother''s words... At first, she felt apprehensive about interacting with the Student Council President in the future, but her older brother told her that she shouldn''t panic and just act the usual she was. Although Freya didn''t ask why; she feltfortable and relieved for some reason. On the one hand, her older brother wouldn''t say such a thing without a basis; on the other hand, her older brother told her such a thing because he has the ability to protect her at critical moments. And Freya believed in her older brother, especially when he told her about the Skill: Mark of Night (EX) with its activation condition of ''patting someone''s head'', she recalled how he patted her just before the Disciplinary Trial Exam. Her older brother exined the details of the skill or at least the most important one which he could detect her if she was in danger and teleport to her location instantly. That time, she also asked her older brother about another realistic question aside from if they were going to get caught. She asked about Kevin''s family outside the Obelisk Academy, she then heard his reply... ''He has no family.'' It was said in a serious manner, but at that moment, Freya managed to nce at her older brother''s eyes, there she saw a different, inexplicable emotion. After some thinking, she made inferences from that words... First, Kevin Springer was an orphan. Second, Kevin Springer''s faction only recruits people with no ties. Lastly, her older brother wouldn''t act that way if Kevin had a family! ... At the Obelisk of Virtual Technology Building "Line up!" "Hey, you! Focus or leave my ss right now!" "I''ll pluck your eyes out if you look at me like that one more time!" ''Scary...'' The only word to describe the person in front of them. ''Murak Hart'' The A-1 ss yer Physical Education (PPE) Professor of the first-year students. He has untidy brown hair that looked like he just woke up, and brownish eyes that were like sands from a vast desert. He has a bulky body that one might think that he was a ''tanker-type'' ss, but he was a famous Assassin-type ss who''s a SS- rank yer that was contracted with the Constetion whose Cosmic Title was [One Who Owns the Meteor Dagger]. He came from Southern Orion''s major country called ''Bhaskara'' and has Bhaskan origins. And he was publicly known as ''The Berserker'', for his fighting style wasn''t like that of the usual assassin. ... During a month and a half of his sses, all they were told was to polish their control over their weapons and develop their fighting style. And right now... "You will be divided into 8 groups with 5 members each..." Without being able to finish his words, Professor ''Murak Hart'' heard a whisper even though his distance from his students was at least 10 meters. "I wonder what group I am at." Whispered by one of the students at almost back line while everyone stood in their lines, a meter distance away from each other. "Hey, you! Come here right now!" Professor Murak''s gazended on the whispering student, prompting other students to follow his gaze. The student who whispered had a look of wonder as she pointed a finger at herself,pletely confused. The female student who has green hair, green eyes, and a height of at least 166 cm went in the front where Professor Murak was standing as everyone heard his voice. "What''s your name?" he asked in a serious manner. "C-Celine Cello-ana, Sir." Celine said in a hoarse voice, not knowing what was going on. "You are in group 6." Professor Murak said inly, but his voice felt like a shout to others'' ears. "H-huh?" Celine replied, while momentarily dazed. "I said you are in group 6!" "Y-yes!" She bowed reflexively before going back to her line. "Next time, please be reminded that future activities or groupings will be posted in advance in your Obelisk Personal ount. "Now, go to your groups!" ... After a minute or two, everyone''s group was formed because it was posted in advance in their Obelisk Personal ounts at their ''chat group'' with their professor. Group 1 Leader: Elizabeth von Etherion Group 2 Leader: Rumia Flora Group 3 Leader: Anya Amasawa Group 4 Leader: Leon von Obreyon Group 5 Leader: Han Jiho Group 6 Leader: Samantha Hall Group 7 Leader: Amelie Rose Merveil Group 8 Leader: Bailey rkson After some time of organizing and introducing each other, Professor Murak''s voice resounded, prompting everyone to stop their chatters as they looked at him. "I''m sure you''re wondering what activity you are going to do. For almost a month and a half, all you did was polish your fighting style, and your control over your weapon. How you did it was based on your judgment or instinct..." Freya listened to Professor Murak''s words as she thought... ''It''s the first time we''ll be using VR technology!'' She felt happy, remembering her older brother''s attitude towards VR games. She looked around to see the Virtual Reality Capsules from both left and right, numbering 40 from either side with a total of 80. She was snapped of her reverie as soon as she heard Professor Murak''s voice. "Now, this is the general information and rules regarding today''s activity!" After fidgeting with his tablet, the general information and rules written on the holographic screen appeared in front of everyone. Activity Name: Virtual Small War Aim: Promotes the importance of fighting style and weapon control. Virtual Battlegrounds: 1. Forest of the Dark Mist 2. ins of Unending Lava 3. Cemetery of Oblivion 4. Jellyfish Ind 5. neswalker Territory of ss 6. Desert of the Luminous Scorpion 7. Translucent Illusory Fishdom 8. Ice Walker White Land General Rules: 1. Groups will be divided into 8 with 5 members each. 2. Two groups will be assigned against each other. 3. Each leader of the group will be provided with an ''Obelisk Token''; this is a token with Obelisk Academy''s logo that should be protected. This item cannot be transferred to groupmates. 4. The leader''s death equals losing the activity, in the same way, if the Obelisk Token was stolen and held by enemies hands for 10 minutes. 5. If the group wins by stealing the enemies'' Obelisk Token, the opposing group will have a ''group grade'' deduction of 50. 6. The group leader''s death will guarantee a win, but the losing team will not receive the ''group grade'' deduction of 50. 7. Grading will be divided into ''Group Grade'' and ''Individual Grade'' which will be judged by the presiding Professor. 8. Group Grade for winning is 100 while 80 for losing. 9. Time Allotment in Virtual Battlegrounds is 1 and a half days which is equal to 1 hour and 30 minutes per matchup. Geographic Information: 1. Each Virtual Battleground has its own distinct theme and generated monsters that each group might encounter. These monsters will generate points that will be another basis to win if the groups failed to meet each other during the time allotment. 2. Each Virtual Battleground will have an area of at least 5 kilometers across. 3. Group participants will be at least 3 kilometers away from each other at the start of the match. 4. Group participants will be transferred to a random Virtual Battleground based on the list above. Strict Rule: 1. You cannot directly use Skills against the enemy group. Matchups: Group 1 vs. Group 2 Group 3 vs. Group 4 Group 5 vs. Group 6 Group 7 vs. Group 8 ... Upon reading the information regarding the Virtual Small War, the students cannot hide their obvious reactions to thest part which served as a bombshell. Expecting these kinds of reactions, Professor Murak spoke in his casual intimidating tone... "Remember what you did in a month and a half in my ss? "You polished your fighting style and control of your weapon. "Now, this is just the application of everything you did." The students couldn''t retort to what Professor Murak said. Freya, knowing that nothing would change even if someoneined about the situation began to absorb the rules and came up with various inferences. ''Killing directly the leader is almost impossible, especially stealing the Obelisk Token... but with Group Grade deduction... I''m certain that almost everyone would aim for Obelisk Token then run for 10 minutes...'' With unknown criteria of how students were ranked... Achieving the deduction of group grade for the opposing team would give the winning team the assumption that their ranks would be affected in the future. ''Using Skills against monsters is possible...'' After some time of thinking, Freya sighed as Professor Murak''s voice resounded in everyone''s ears. "Alright, Group 1 and Group 2! Please proceed to the VR Capsules. "For other spectating groups, you are encouraged to observe." ... The meeting started at 8 in the morning of Sunday ording to the agreed extra schedule for the particr activity between Professor Murak and A-1 students, or more like they couldn''tin about it. Freya looked at the two holographic screens projected in front of everyone. One was about the Matchup lineup. [Group 1 vs. Group 2] Win: Lose: [Group 3 vs. Group 4] Win: Lose: [Group 5 vs. Group 6] Win: Lose: [Group 7 vs. Group 8] Win: Lose: And two was about the Virtual Battleground where the first group of participants arrived. ... At Chancellor Alexander''s Office Scarlet Netherdawn, the General Overall System Theories Professor of Han Jiho and Russell Moon, was sitting on a single-person couch while looking at the back of Chancellor Alexander who was looking by the window. After a few seconds of silence, she asked in a casual tone with disregard for her position as a professor. "Do you want me to investigate Kevin Springer''s matter?" Heaving a sigh, Chancellor Alexander shook his head and said... "No, leave it be." Without waiting for Scarlet to say anything, he added... "Scarlet, do you remember the ''Unwritten Obelisk Academy Mantra'' that every staff here knows?" Scarlet nodded silently, waiting for Chancellor Alexander''s next words. "If you cannot protect yourself inside the Obelisk Academy, do not expect to survive longer outside. "That said if one is scared of pain... "The more likely one is prone to die." "The more likely one is prone to die." Chancellor Alexander and Scarlet Netherdawn said the samest sentence at almost the same time while tacitlying to an agreement of not pursuing the matter about the third year who faked dropping out. ... Meanwhile, both princesses of two Queendoms arrived at the Virtual Battleground. [You have arrived at Jellyfish Ind] [Warning: Pain Reduction is not applicable] [There will be no Pain Tolerance] Chapter 55 Jellyfish Island [Warning: Pain Reduction is NOT applicable] [There will be no Pain Tolerance] [Every stats, rank, and skill were retained in the Virtual World as per the Virtual Capsules settings] The first two groups of students who arrived at the ''Jellyfish Ind'' looked in disbelief at the Virtual System messages in front of them. Some of them clearly had fear and anxiety in their eyes. Some felt like having a mental breakdown, clearly fearing suffering and death. Because even though it was only a Virtual Reality, with no such thing as Pain Reduction, it meant that everything would feel real. One could only hope that if they would die, it must be instantly. But after some time, a woman, belonging to a certain group, with blonde pigtail-styled hair and sapphire-like eyes that resembles the seas spoke with her four group members who were somewhat managing themselves. "Don''t panic,pose your selves first, nothing will change if you are all going to stay like that." As she said that, she noticed a ne on her neck with a token depicting an Obelisk piercing the Sun. It was the Obelisk Token that each leader possessed. Then her voice which was gentle, and full of warmth resounded in the ears of the other four group members. Then, after ten seconds of calming themselves down, one student asked a question. "Princess Rumia, what should we do?" Upon saying that, Rumia asked them to browse to Virtual System messages, not minding the honorifics, and they found the most necessary instruction that greatly lessened their feeling of apprehension. [You can conjure your weapon and armor in this Virtual World] [The weapon and armor you can conjure can only be done once] [The weapon and armor, regardless of what you can conjure, have no bonus stats, but their intrinsic effects will be retained] The Virtual System messages that first came as a warning was now turned into a blessing, although additional stats were not given, they didn''t need to find equipment somewhere. Rumia Flora and her group conjured their own weapon and armor, and because the Virtual Capsules were connected to their subconscious, the equipment they conjured was something that they felt familiar with. Rumia Flora conjured a Whip with an intricate design based on ''nature'' as her specialty was focused on nature, especially the ''seas''. After organizing themselves, Rumia''s group looked around and realized that they were inside a small cave that served as their starting point. What they couldn''t perceive earlier due to initial shock now registered in their sight. The small cave that looked like its main purpose was to amodate people during the rain has luminescent grass fluttering due to the cold wind. These grasses sprouted on the wall of the small cave with different luster. Some were yellow glowing like a morning Sun, some were red like fresh blood, and some were light blue depicting the sunless sky. After some time of scrutinizing their surroundings, a collective notification sounded in their ears as they reflexively looked at the Virtual System''s message. [The Wall Jellyfish living in the dead Rock Turtle''s hide are awakening] Rumia and her group looked dumbfounded as they realized their situation, as the small cave started to quake, and cracks on the wall began to form. The fluttering grass seemed toe to life! "Run!" Rumia said, prompting the remaining group members to run outside the small cave. After a few seconds of running, they left the small cave, and when they looked back, they saw that it resembled a turtle''s back because of the imprinted patterns. The small cave was still quaking, meaning that the awakening of Wall Jellyfish didn''t end yet. "Rumia, are those luminescent grass the Wall Jellyfish?" An attractive woman with silver hair, grayish eyes, and a height of at least 167 cm said while holding a ''gray staff'' with a design depicting the waves of ciers. "I think so, too. Rika, please be on guard as I think of something." She said sinctly as she fell into thought and sat on the ground as they hide behind a gigantic tree, maintaining at least 15 meters away from the dead Rock Turtle hide. "Aren''t we going to run?" Rika asked while the other three members were silent, just waiting for the opinion of their leader because they instinctively knew that she knows best in this situation. "No¡­ I think we can take care of them if my guess is right." Rumia recalled the information about the Jellyfish Ind, it was one of the Strayed Dungeons found in her country ''Nereia'' which was famous for sea delicacies, and supplies of aquatic marine resources. The first time she saw the Jellyfish Ind in the list of Virtual Battlegrounds, she recognized it immediately and she inferred that every Virtual battleground was recreation and modification of a conquered Strayed Dungeons. "Rumia!" Rumia heard Rika''s voice and instantly understood what was happening, prompting her to follow the gaze of Rika, as well as the other three group members. There, they saw the Wall Jellyfish, floating in the air as if they were under the ocean. They were circling the entrance of the small cave, or the dead Rock Turtle''s hide as if to protect their habitat. Each Wall Jellyfish has 8 tentacles in the shape of a sharp grass. After thirty seconds of inspecting the ''behavior'' of the Wall Jellyfish, Rumia Flora used one of her important skills. pAn,Da-n0v e1,c [Activating the Skill: Insight of the Living Water] Insight of the Living Water (Lvl. 9) Water is one of the evidence of life, what more if the Water itself has life? Rank: S+ Cost: 200 Mana Duration: 90 minutes Cooldown: 100 minutes Effects: - Increases the user''s vision by two-fold onnd, and ten-fold underwater. - Instinctively determines the weaknesses of the marine-type monsters. - Damage against marine-type monsters increased by 300%. - Damage against marine-type monsters that walk onnd increased by 500%. - [Lock] - [Lock] Instantly, Rumia''s sapphire-like eyes became deep blue with a bluish luster that depicts blue crystals or gems. She inspected the details of the floating Wall Jellyfish. [Wall Jellyfish] Inhabitants of the Jellyfish Ind that likes to hide themselves on rocks, especially in the shell of the species called Rock Turtle. Health Points: 500 Mana Points: 500 Stamina Points: 500 Stats: Strength: 50 Dexterity: 50 Constitution: 50 Agility: 50 Vitality: 50 Perception: 50 Willpower: 50 Tenacity: 50 Charm: 5 Luck: 5 Magic Power: 50 Skills: Enhanced Tentacles (Passive) Be careful of tentacles! For it bes as sharp as a sharpened de! Rank: E Effects: - Their jelly-like tentacles harden like a de when they sensed an enemy. Tentacle Jump Due to the enhanced tentacles, they could use rocks as a cushion for their advantage tounch an attack. Rank: E- Effects: - This can be triggered if there are rocks within 10 meters of the Wall Jellyfish''s sight. ¡­ Dissimr to humans and other races, monsters or beasts don''t receive a bonus Agility and Vitality stats per 3 points of Dexterity and Constitution stats respectively. Rumia recalled the System Information regarding the thorough details of stats, then after checking the Wall Jellyfish information, she formte a n to finish them off and get some points. ''We have to make it quick.'' Rumia said inwardly while feeling an inexplicable sense of nervousness. After 5 minutes of preparing, Rumia, Rika, and the other three members of the group started to move. Their n was simple, after re-confirming the professions or sses of her teammates, they finalized for the five-star formation. The five-star formation was one of themon group formations used in dungeon raiding whether from Strayed Dungeons or Dungeon Towers. Just as the name of the form implies that every student or yer would form a star position where the following was assigned properly. Rumia reconfirmed the roles of her group members based on their professions before proceeding with the n. Murktan Khan ¨C Tanker (Brute Enforcer) Dessa Deya ¨C Damage Dealer (Rod Spinner) Rika Snow ¨C Damage Dealer and Support (Ice Mage) Henriad Frostine ¨C Damage Dealer (Winter Ranger) "Alright, Murktan, as a tanker, you are in the front while I''ll take the left nk and Dessa on the right nk. Then, you¡­ Rika and Henriad will take the rear." Upon hearing their group leader''s words, they nodded and readied their weapons, proceeding to engage inbat. [Activating Skill: Brute Provocation (E)] Then a cry of a taunt by Murktan resounded in the part of the Jellyfish Ind where the dead Rock Turtle hide was located. ... Before the cry of taunt that spans at least 10 meters were activated, Rumia''s group first scouted the surroundings to check if they were going to attract another group of monsters just in case. After confirming the quietness of the area, the n to attackmenced. [Wall Jellyfish have sensed your presence] [Wall Jellyfish bes irritated] Numerous Wall Jellyfishes numbering at least twenty collectively used the Skill: Tentacle Jump using the hide of the Rock Turtle as a cushion. Cracks appeared on the exterior of the sturdy Rock Turtle hide, then with a quick, but possible-to-be-seen kind of speed, the Wall Jellyfish jumped towards the one who provoked them. Their igloo-shaped heads mmed on the metallic shield called "Gray Slimy Shield" conjured by Murktan. It was a defensive weapon he was very familiar with because it was a gift from his parents. This shield was made from the slimes under the Metal Family, one of the elements possessed by a slime ording to their ssification. And aside from being sturdy under normal circumstances, the Gray Slimy Shield could produce sticky mucus that could be considered a trap because if the attacks hit the metallic shield, there''s a tendency that the means used to attack would stick to it. [The Intrinsic Effect of the Gray Slimy Shield has been activated!] ~ ng! ~ ng! The bodies of the Wall Jellyfishes that mmed on the metallic shield produced a loud sound of metal particrly because the Wall Jellyfishes'' constitution became metal-like. Although every Wall Jellyfish jumped at the same time, not every one of them arrived at the same time, giving the range damage dealers a chance to strike; Rika used consecutive Ice st while Henriad used arrows covered with unknown fur as he also used the Skill: Winter Arrow to take out the ones at the back; Rumia and Dessa finished off the ones that stick on the metallic shield of Murktan. ''It''s easy because of the Intrinsic effects of our weapons... Intrinsic effects are effects of weapons based on what they were made of... So, if we know high-grade weapons, even though the bonus stats are gone, it''s still good to go.'' Rumia thought as she stabbed thest one remaining that stick to Murktan''s shield. [You have gained 1 Point for killing a Wall Jellyfish] ... Rumia''s group leaned their backs on the shell of the Rock Turtle after the battle, nning their next move as they have more than a day. Rumia looked at the blue sky with numerous clouds. ''Everything inside the Virtual Reality seems so real, if not for the fact that we are aware that we are inside VR Capsules, we would probably believe that this is reality...'' Rumia thought while admiring the Virtual Technology inwardly. As she continued admiring the grandeur of the virtual sky, a shadow ovepped her sight at almost the same time she thought about the other princess. ''I wonder how Eliza-'' Before she could finish her thoughts, the hairs on her back stood on end with the foreboding danger. "Found you." Chapter 56 The Two Princess "Found you." Rumia''s thoughts instantly cut off as she saw the reason for the ovepping shadow. A woman figure with long blonde hair that was tied up, and light green eyes was looking down at her from the top of the Rock Turtle shell while grinning. It was the Princess of the Etheria, a woman that even some aristocratic families didn''t dare to recklessly approach. "Get on formation!!" Rumia shouted at Rika, Dessa, Henriad, and Murktan which left them to instinctively form a confused expression. ~ Boom-! Before the other four processed what was happening, a loud boom sounded in their ears, and smoke of dust formed with the impact where Rumia was leaning just now. Rumia jumped and rolled a few meters as she barely manage to avoid the impact. ''I barely dodge it, was that an attack without any skills?'' Rumia thought and was rather amused with the opponent''s firepower. The other group members saw Rumia a few meters away from the sudden impact and instinctively knew that what happened was an assault. They quickly gathered and instinctively formed the five-star formation while maintaining their proper role. It was thanks to Rumia''s skill, ''Insight of the Living Water'' that improved her vision by two times that she managed to perceive the presence above the Rock Turtle shell. "Any of you, cast a buf-" Before she could even finish her words while looking at the dissipating smoke produced by the impact, she heard a sound of a stab from the rear of their five-star formation. There, one of her group members had a sword protruding from his chest as blood gushed out from his mouth. "Henriad!" Rika shouted, but that was all there was to it because it was toote. They didn''t even manage to react in time as the sound of the Virtual System''s Notification entered their ears. [Your teammate, ''Henriad Frostine'' have died] Henriad''s figure instantly dissipated, turning into pixels of programs thanks to Virtual Technology. They saw the figure who stabbed Henriad vanished from ''her'' spot. Elizabeth von Etherion''s location was unknown at the moment as though she turned into nothing. ''Where are her teammates?'' "Rika, do you have a crowd control skill?" Rumia thought as she asked Rika while staying alert against Elizabeth''s assault. The five-star formation broke instantly due to Elizabeth''s surprise attack. The other group members aside from Rumia were all confused about some things like it''s not even 30 minutes yet in this Virtual World but Elizabeth found them already, and their starting point distance between each other was more than 2 kilometers. It was only Rumia who understood the situation. "Yes, I have, but isn''t it against the rules?" Rika said, staying alert for possible attacks. "Remember the Strict Rule, it just said that we cannot use skills ''directly'' against our opponents." Rumia spoke as she recalled the contents of the rules, especially the Strict Rule at thest part of the information provided by the holographic screen earlier. Rika, who heard her instantly understood what Rumia meant, it was the same for Dessa and Murktan who were at their fighting and defensive stance respectively while anticipating an ambush. ... At Elizabeth''s side, a minute or two after they arrived at Jellyfish Ind. Elizabeth and her group members conjured their personal weapons and armor from their subconscious. After some time of tidying themselves up, one of her group members asked what to do next. Elizabeth beckoned them over, and with an ominous smile on her face... [Activating Skill: Macro-Teleportation] They vanished from their spot without even the time to react. ~ Hummm- With the sound of a vacuum tearing into space that dissipates quickly, they arrived at an unknown part of Jellyfish Ind; and without consideration for others regarding the side effects of Teleportation, Elizabeth used it again instantaneously like five or six times until they arrived at the top of the Rock Turtle''s shell. They encountered some hurdles in some ces where theynded such asirs of Jellyfish with various physical characteristics but after a few attempts, Elizabeth''s group reached their right destination. Looking at her group members who were slumped down, feeling dizziness due to mana vibration in their body because of Teleporting simultaneously, which drained their energy to even stand up, Elizabeth thought to herself... ''I should leave them be for now...'' She looked down from her spot and saw Rumia Flora looking up at the sky with an expression of admiration. A grin appeared on her face as she said softly as if whispering into the air. "Found you." ... At Present, with Rumia''s question earlier, Rika activated one of her crowd control skills that doesn''t directly hit the designated opponent. [Activating Skill: Ice Mist] Upon the skill''s activation, a mild mist that was made of snow surrounded the surroundings, then to reduce the cold effects on her teammates, she cast another skill which was a support type. [Activating Skill: Ice Barrier] Snow formed a circle that started circling each of their body. During this process, Rumia had some guesses regarding the whereabouts of Elizabeth''s teammates. ''It''s not a normal kind of Teleportation, her teammates must have suffered some side effects.'' As she thought of that, she instinctively nced at the top of the Rock Turtle''s shell, then she asked Rika... "Rika, what''s the range of your skill?" She was referring to Ice Mist, although she didn''t know its detailed effects, based on how it looked, it would probably cause slowness and could freeze the opponent with low cold resistance if exposed for some time. "Ah... actually, the Ice Mist follows my movement as long as it''s active." Rumia, Dessa, and Murktan looked dumbfounded by Rika''s words. ... Elizabeth was looking at the alert group of Rumia from a few meters away as she sat on one of the gigantic trees and saw the Ice Mist and the Ice Barrier skill. ''That''s troublesome... with that skill, it is not a direct attack because it''s up to me if I should walk into it.'' She thought inwardly, although all she needed to do was to grab the Obelisk Token at Rumia''s neck, she couldn''t be careless because if she got caught by the Whip that Rumia''s holding, she wouldn''t be able to Teleport away. This was also a gesture of respect to the other Princess because Elizabeth knew that she had considerable strength. ''Samantha...'' Her thoughts flew randomly for a few seconds as she muttered inwardly the name of the person who she considered as having ''her'' own league. Her thoughts cut off as she saw Rumia''s group moving towards the top of the Rock Turtle shell. Then she nced at the top of the Rock Turtle shell where her group members were barely moving. She didn''t know whether tough or cry because of their present state. ... At Obelisk of Virtual Technology Building. Freya Moon, Amelie Rose Merveil, Amery Blight, and their other ssmates, as well as Professor Murak, were watching the unfolding battle through the holographic screen. Rumia''s group currently have 20 points for eliminating 20 Wall Jellyfish while Elizabeth''s group have 5 points for eliminating some different kind of Jellyfish that hindered their Teleportation at that moment. These points were only necessary to the group with higher points umted if the Virtual War ended without losing the Obelisk Token or the loss of their leader. Various murmurs resounded in one of the rooms where A-1 students were watching. "She''s crazy bro." "Is she right in the head?" "Princess..." Some talked about Rumia and her group, but most of them referred to Elizabeth being dubbed as a ''Crazy Princess''. Even Freya didn''t manage to hide her shock when she saw the Instantaneous Teleportation that seemed draining enough to be used simultaneously. Amery maintained her aloof and cold atmosphere as she watched thoroughly what was happening in front of them. While Amelie seemed to think about something, not minding the fight projected in front of her, she took notes of some important details. "It seems like you realize it by now." Professor Murak said while standing at the back as their left and right were surrounded by Virtual Capsules. The students heard his remarks, prompting them to nce at him for a few seconds without saying anything before their attention went back to the holographic screen where it shows Rumia and her group going up to the top of the Rock Turtle shell. The A-1 students made some inferences based on what they watched so far such as using skills to ''indirectly'' affect your opponents were valid. They were not in A-1 ss for nothing because each of them has talent, especially in observation. ... It was just ten minutes had passed since Elizabeth''s surprise attack that killed Henriad Frostine. Due to the steepness of the Rock Turtle''s shell, it was not easy to just jump around to reach its top. ''Her teammates must be suffering with Mana Vibration.'' Rumia thought as she jumped from one rock to another. Mana Vibration was a state where the mana inside the body vibrates that caused dizziness. It''s a side effect of Teleportation that could only be ovee by getting used to it or raising one''s rank. As a Princess of the Nereia, she was educated in her younger years about necessary stuff, especially the negative effects or diseases caused by mana; thus, she thought of Elizabeth''s group members to be at the top of the Rock Turtle''s shell, barely recovering for now. After a minute or two of jumping, they arrived at the top where Rumia and her group members saw the other four students belonging to Elizabeth''s group while Elizabeth was standing at the rear, keenly sizing them up with a smile on her face. "Attack!" Rumiamanded Rika, Dessa, and Murktan as she lead the way. The Rock Turtle''s shell was 50 meters long, but its mid to top structure was normally curved, but right now, Rumia and her group members noticed that they were running straight which means that the top part of its shell was cut horizontally. The other four students who were recovering as they barely kept their stance already saw Rumia and the other three running towards them with considerable speed as the Ice Mist was following them, changing the climate of a few meters of surroundings. One was holding a shield; the other one was wielding a pair of daggers; one was holding a spear, and the other one was holding a staff. ''I''ll see what they can do.'' Elizabeth thought as she stood at the rear. ... [Activating Skill: Elemental Dispel] A woman with long silvery hair and grayish eyes cast one of her skills as she stood near Elizabeth. Suddenly, a beam of ice that has a white luster fired from her staff. Its target was the Ice Mist which was following the other group. ''Ho... Ba... She''s from Arka based on what I remember.'' Arka was one of the major countries located at the Southernmost of the Orion Continent and Bhaskara was located on its Northern Border. The Arka''s inhabitants''mon physical characteristics were having silvery, white, dirty white, or grayish hair, as well as grayish or silvery eyes. Elizabeth thought as she watched the spectacle with an excited expression on her face. The Ice Mist was resisting as if it were a sentient being, it was slowing down, getting left behind by Rika and the others. ~ ng-! The two tankers collided with their metallic shields while the one holding a pair of daggers on Elizabeth''s side jumped up and does a frontal assault at Dessa, the Rod Spinner. Her main weapon was a rod, it''s like a spear but without a pointy tip. "Arghhh!" A spear suddenly struck Murktan''s side and he started to bleed. They were advantageous with numbers! Rumia, who saw thatshes her three-meter-long whip at the spear, catching it then threw it away. Then the long whip coiled around the neck of the student whose spear was caught, leaving him barehanded. He grasped the whip tightening his neck as seconds passed by. Then without hesitation, Rumia pulled the tightened whip, decapitating the neck of the man who was a spear user. Chapter 57 Intense Battle Everyone who was watching the Virtual War between Group 1 that was led by Elizabeth von Etherion, Princess of Etheria, and Group 2 that was led by Rumia Flora, Princess of Nereia, had their mouths agape at the sight of the head being decapitated via a three-meter-long whip. Most students who were watching the spectacle on the holographic screen had a look of disbelief. Who would have thought that the cheerful Princess who could get along well with almost everyone if not for her noble status that made most people cautious of her to some extent, do such a thing? Some students thought about an absurd thing that... It might not be surprising if it was Elizabeth who did it! Freya, Amelie, and Amery also had their expressions wavered slightly, especially Amery''s, whose cold and aloof atmosphere turned into a more serious one, observing the battle reflecting in her ck-colored eyes. ... The confrontation between Rumia, and Elizabeth''s group didn''t stop with the sight of the student whose main weapon was a spear getting decapitated. Murktan held his ground against the other tanker. Besides from the metallic shield that each of their right hands was holding, their left hand was equipped with a shortsword. Murktan and the other tanker hacked each other while also taking a defensive stance. After a few seconds, the tanker on Elizabeth''s group shouted the name of his rival. "Murktan!!!" The pushing force of the metallic shield intensified against Murktan as his opponent recovered from the Mana Vibration caused by Elizabeth''s simultaneous Teleportation. Murktan was losing his ground. ''F*ck!'' He cursed inwardly while feeling the spirit ofpetition towards his opponent. The pain on his left side below the ribs that was struck by the spear wasn''t subsiding and it continued to bleed, reducing his stamina, as well as his health. Forgetting his current state, and hoping for an adrenaline rush, he responded to the scream of his name by the other tanker. "Marokh!!!" Murktan screamed the name of his opponent, the tanker under Elizabeth''s group as he felt the urge to crash this man in front of him. ... Both Murktan and Marokh came from the country Bhaskara. One of the indicators of their origins was the name they were called. Most of their first names ended with the ''k'' sound, and their physical characteristics were mostly having brown hair and yellowish or brownish eyes. They were the kind of people who were mostly brute... But they could maintain their rationality. Elizabeth who was just watching from the rear instinctively felt that each individual who was engaged in battle wanted something to prove to themselves. Rika, the Ice Mage on Rumia''s side was battling Ba from Elizabeth''s side. Thebination of their features looked like they were twins as both of them came from the country of Arka, the Land of Ice. Their silvery hair was fluttering and their grayish eyes contained silver luster. Although using skills to ''directly'' hit your opponent was prohibited and considered a strict rule resulting in disqualification, the two of them, as Mages didn''t mean that theyck the means to fight because during the one and a half months of Professor Murak''s ss, and even before they went to the Obelisk Academy, they practiced meleebat using ''staff'' as a weapon. There would be situations in the future where one would not be able to rely on using ''Mana'' to activate a skill. The Virtual War initially felt out of ce with the absurd condition of not using Skills directly, but it was certain that most of them, if not everyone, those who were on the battlefield, and the ones watching on the holographic screen realized the underlying purpose of the activity. ... pAn,Da-n0v e1,c The intense battle intensified between the two groups that were led by the two Princesses. Dessa, the Rod Spinner, who was facing someone whose main weapon was a pair of daggers, retreated to the side of Murktan as she judged that he needed help as he was being pushed back. His clothes were in tatters, and different cuts appeared on his shoulder. It was not without resistance as he injured Marokh to some extent, but as both of them were tankers, even though they fought head-on, using shortswords to cleave down, and smashing their shields against each other, their stamina didn''t drain by half. Taking the chance of their focused battle, Dessa, who ran from the Assassin-type opponent, called Murktan, prompting him to look at Dessa. Murktan who understood his body''s condition more than anyone else nodded at Dessa''s look which was hinting something. ~ Hup! Dessa jumped using one of Murktan''s shoulders as a cushion, and while in mid-air, she formed a swinging position, ready to cleave down at Marokh, who had a look of surprise with the unexpectedbined assault. But, at that moment, in a second or two of being mid-air, a womanly blonde figure with light green eyes appeared in front of Dessa. It was Elizabeth! She stopped being a spectator of the battle at that moment and teleported into the air where Dessa''s figure was located. ... Dessa who swung her rod midway cannot possibly change her stance to defend herself quickly. ''I''m gonna die!'' She thought, feeling the sense of approaching death. Although this was a virtual world, without Pain Reduction, one could only hope to get killed instantly. She saw the intricate broadsword swung by Elizabeth upying her line of sight as her rod was cleaving downwards against Marokh. But at that moment a whip caught the sword as well as the body of Elizabeth who was holding her weapon firmly! ~ Bang! ~ Bang! Two loud bangs reverberated almost at the same time! The first sound of a bang was about Dessa, who couldn''t stop her attack in mid-air, she sessfully hit one of the shoulders near the neck of Marokh! The sound of bones cracking was slightly heard, and with fatigue, he passed out from the impact he didn''t get to defend. Then, the second sound of a bang was about Elizabeth, who was thrown on the ground made of a Rock Turtle''s shell as she was dragged by Rumia with a whip! At that moment, the Assassin-type group member of Elizabeth who didn''t manage to catch up on Dessa sneaked behind Rumia, attempting to stab her in the back. Dessa, who caused Marokh to faint, half-turned her head to look at Rumia and saw the sneaking Assassin, she then threw her rod at the sneaking Assassin. Rumia saw Dessa, and she instantly realized what Dessa''s action meant. ~ Bang! The Assassin from Elizabeth''s group flew a few meters away with his body bent as the rod hit his abdomen, then Rumia who was given an opportunity grabbed the feet of the Assassin, lifted him in the air, then thrashed him on the ground. ~ Bang! She then used the whip to pierce the chest of the Assassin on the ground. [You have killed, ''Brynn Drake'' of the enemy group] After two seconds, the Assassin''s figure named Brynn turned into pixels that dissipated in the air. Then, a Virtual System notification entered Rumia''s ears, she then took a nce at it, then another two sounds of notifications followed suit after a second or two. [Your teammate, Murktan Khan has killed, ''Murokh Lhan'' of the opposing group] [Your teammate, ''Murktan Khan'' have died] [Your teammate, ''Dessa Deya'' have died] ''What?'' She turned her body and saw a sword pierced from behind the chest of the weaponless Dessa with a looked of disbelief and shock. And near her was the body of Murktan, kneeling... But without a head. The two figures turned into pixels that reminds them that this world was virtual, dissipating quickly. Rumia''s eyes constricted as she looked at Elizabeth whose blood flowed from her head as she was thrown earlier. Elizabeth responded to Rumia''s gaze as she formed an innocent smile on her face, she then spoke with a casual tone. "Aren''t you brutal for a Princess?" She sarcastically asked, trying to provoke Rumia. Rumia replied with aposed tone, without a sign of wavering. "We were taught that in war, mercy is one''s choice." ~ Bang! Without looking at Rika and Ba who were fighting on their own on the sidelines, Elizabeth, just smiled at Rumia''s words because as a Princess, she understood what Rumia meant. The two Princesses felt the end of the battle between their remaining teammates. Then after two minutes, two notifications entered their ears at the same time, telling the death and killing of another. Elizabeth and Rumia didn''t hide their curiosity about what had transpired as they both looked at the side of the Rock Turtle shell, there Rika and Ba had their own staffs piercing each other''s chests with a smile on their face as if something had been fulfilled within them. Their figures soon vanished, returning to the program of Virtual Technology. "I guess it''s just the two of us." Elizabeth said as her smile didn''t vanish on her lips. She pointed her broadsword in Rumia''s direction, preparing to attack. Rumia didn''t back down as she did the same, pointing her whip at Elizabeth who was at least ten meters away from her. "Shall we go all out then?" Rumia asked as a smile began to form on her face. The two of them realized that in this virtual world, they could go all out without repercussions to affect the real world. Elizabeth didn''t respond, it was a sign of tacit agreement. As the strict rule was not to directly attack your opponents, it indirectly means that one could use buffs to one''s advantage. Rumia activated her buffs on her arsenal aside from the Insight of the Living Water that was still in effect. [Activating Skill: Blessing of the Mermaid (S)] [Activating Skill: Guidance of the Deep Sea (S+)] [Activating Skill: Weapon Flow (S+)] The Blessing of the Mermaid gives Rumia an additional overall stat of 100. The Guidance of the Deep Sea caused her blonde hair to turn blue like the water of the ocean, and her eyes to see and predict the trajectory of an iing attack, but it depends on one''s opponent. And the Weapon Flow (S+) grants her weapon, the whip an intrinsic effect called ''Free Flow''. Free Flow made her whip weapon to felt like an animated object. It would make her whip feel like a coiling serpent, chasing her target. ... Elizabeth who saw Rumia''s activation of buff skills did the same, taking this opportunity to test her whole power without affecting the surroundings. [Activating Skill: Bacterium of the Vacuum (SS+)] [Activation of the Skill has failed]... ''Eh?'' Elizabeth nkly looked at the Virtual System message. Chapter 58 Rumia Vs. Elizabeth Sunday Morning, Room 393, Andromeda Building Russell Moon who just woke up from his short sleep sat on his bed, and looked at the wall clock hanging on the wall above the television, then after a minute or two, he stood up and went to the bath to brush off his teeth before making a quick breakfast. As he sat on thefortable couch near his bed, he remembered something before opening the television. "At the age of ten, Princess Rumia Flora of Nereia, and Princess Elizabeth von Etherion of Etheria had been trained with their lives on the line. "Criminals from their respective country''s prisons that were ranked from F- to E, and proven guilty of their crimes were lined up for death row punishment. "And in order to wake up Rumia and Elizabeth''s perception of another side of reality, the Queen of Nereia, and the Queen of Etheria decided on their own that the frail and less dangerous criminals'' death punishment must be used as training for each of their own daughter. "Although Rumia and Elizabeth were given a choice and not forced to do such a thing, the two princesses epted it under the premise that the criminals were proven guilty. "And under the watchful gaze and authority of the Queen of their respective country, every criminal that received punishment within eptable ranks and proven guilty served as a temporary training partner for the two princesses with their deaths as the end." Russell recalled the details from his unpublished novel in his previous life and let out a sigh inwardly before muttering in the air. "I wonder what would be Freya and her ssmates'' reaction..." ''That the Princess they view as cheerful and friendly could kill without hesitation if the situation calls for it.'' After some time of nostalgia in regard to his unpublished novel, he snapped off his thoughts and remembered what would happen a few weeks from now. ''Ah right! I should ask Amelieter about the ck Market, time to reap some money.'' ... [Activating Skill: Bacterium of the Vacuum] [Activation of Skill has failed] [The nature of the Skill: Bacterium of the Vacuum is not recorded in the Virtual System Data] Elizabeth stared nkly for a few seconds at the holographic screen produced by the Virtual System beforeposing herself. She had a rough guess why her Skill didn''t manage to activate, but with the situation right now, she couldn''t afford to think about it; thus, she activated the other buff skills. [Activating Skill: Blessing of the Space Overseer (SS)] [Activating Skill: White Perception (SS+) [Activating Skill: Weapon Space Coating (SSS)] The Blessing of the Space Overseer (SS) provides the user a bonus overall stat of 150 and lets the user floats in the air freely during the skill''s duration. The White Perception (SS+) affects Elizabeth''s view as her light green eyes became tinum white with white luster. It helps her to discern the right ce where and how to cut something. And the Weapon Space Coating (SSS) grants Elizabeth''s weapon a ''Spatial'' attribute which could make her weapon cut through space. Outside of Virtual Reality, this skill was extremely dangerous because ''cutting through space'' unknowingly and without a proper understanding of it could cause it to connect to other worlds, inviting unknown disasters. But this skill was in perfect harmony with her Skill: White Perception (SS+) which helped her discern the right ces to cut and how short or long a cut must be. ... It was only have been a minute or two that had passed during the activation of their buff skills. Rumia and Elizabeth stared at it other for a few seconds as various thoughts flowed through their mind. ''I need to ovee you before I could even consider fighting Samantha...'' Rumia thought as a self-deprecating smile formed on her lips. ''I know what you''re thinking. It''s useless.'' Elizabeth thought as a smile, close toughing formed on her lips. ~ Whoosh-! ~ Whoosh-! Without any words left to be said, Rumia and Elizabeth vanished from where they were standing. ... At Obelisk Virtual Technology Building, A-1 designated room. ''These two will truly be monsters in the future.'' Professor Murak thought as she instinctively nced at Samantha Hall before letting out a self-deprecating sigh. He then calmly observed his other students who were going to participate after the first two groups. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 ... The spectacley in everyone''s eyes including the students who were part of Rumia and Elizabeth''s group that were eliminated watching the unfolding battle between Rumia and Elizabeth with awe. The Virtual Capsule has automatic psychological cation for the students who died in the Virtual World without Pain Reduction. It would help them to rationality thought for the improvement of themselves, especially themoners who knew that there were worst things than what happened in the Virtual World when it came to reality, outside of Obelisk Academy. The information regarding the zero percent Pain Reduction was gossiped about by the first few participants, but those who were watching from Group 3 to 8 perhaps already realized based on the realistic graphics of blood they saw when someone was killed. It was originally in the program or settings of the Virtual Technology, that if Pain Reduction exists, the sight of blood would be pixels instead. Freya, Amelie, and Amery were watching closely, scrutinizing the fighting style of Rumia and Elizabeth. Although the two were not using ''attack skills'', the impact of Rumia''s thrashing using her whip, and Elizabeth''s cleaving using her broadsword exceeded what''s normal as what a first-year student could do. ''It seems like they have buffs that increase overall stat...'' Freya thought as she looked at the holographic screen and saw Rumia''s whip, which was maintaining a meter distance from Elizabeth, turned into water, but this whip of water seemed solid as it grabbed Elizabeth''s broadsword. At that moment, Elizabeth thrust her broadsword into a certain space as it was wrapped by the water whip, then a space torn beside Rumia where the part of broadsword came out, piercing Rumia''s hand slightly causing her to retract the water whip instinctively. With her Skill: Guidance of the Deep, she could predict the iing attack, but using space to attack was something very challenging and difficult to predict, thus she received a slight wound from the back of her right hand that held the water whip. ''Not good.'' Rumia thought calmly as she saw Elizabeth approaching her. She''s keeping her distance, taking advantage of her three-meter-long whip that was transformed into water that was condensed like ice. But with Elizabeth''s nature of the attack, the distance was not something to be considered an advantage at this point. ... ''Should I force her hand?'' Elizabeth thought as she cleave downward against Rumia, but with the serpent-like whip, her sh was weakened. ''This whip is annoying. Really.'' As she thought of it, a smile of amusement formed on her lips, silently admiring the kind of power Rumia has. Both of them have a Unique Skill, but they don''t know if the opposition has a targeted-type Unique Skill or a buff unique skill. Although they were friends since childhood, and even partnered up whenying punishment to some criminals, the matters regarding their detailed status windows were agreed to be kept secret for some reason as per the Queens'' agreement. Therefore, even if they knew the nature or specialization of each other by training together, they still were both kept in the dark in some matters such as training their Unique Skill on their own. ... A man with blonde hair and deep blue eyes was gritting his teeth and clenching his fists as he watched Rumia and Elizabeth fighting each other. ''I need to surpass them! No, I will do it!'' He resolved himself as he looked at Han Jiho from the other side of the seats, and slightly felt irritated. ''This guy gets in my way, too.'' Leon von Obreyon thought before he continued watching the spectacle of the battle of the Princesses. ... "Won''t you use it?" Elizabeth asked as blood from her head due to earlier''s situation of being thrown off guard flowed down to her right cheek. "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Rumia said in a calm tone as she thrashed her water whip, hitting Elizabeth''s left shoulder. Fatigue was evident in both of them, but they kept going and going, giving what they could at the moment. ~ Bang! With a diagonal cleave, a tree fell on the ground as their fight from the top of Rock Turtle ended, they reached the ground as they jumped, and continued to jump from one ce to another. ~ Argh! Rumia groaned from the kick she received as she was tightening Elizabeth''s arm, causing her to loosen her grip. Elizabeth then teleported behind Rumia, but the serpent-like whip detected it and move on its own, coiling itself on Elizabeth''s body before throwing her again! ~ Bang! ~ Argh! Elizabeth let out a groan as her back hit one of the trees. She flew at least 10 meters due to the water whip''s power. ''Haha hahahaha'' She let out a self-deprecatingugh inwardly before jumping through space again teleporting in front of Rumia, maintaining at least 2 meters away. Both of them didn''t care anymore about the Obelisk Token hanging on their necks as they preferred battling each other to death... at least virtually. ''Should I snatch her Obelisk Token and run away, forcing her to use her Unique Skill?'' Although it was a dirty move, it was viable. But after some time, Elizabeth didn''t consider it anymore as she thought of another n. She looked at Rumia, No, at the spaces where should and shouldn''t cut behind Rumia. She raised her hand holding the broadsword, prompting Rumia who was breathing incessantly due to fatigue to be ready for the iing attack as she held the water whip in her right hand. ~ Shing-! A vertical cut of at least two meters long was drawn in the air. Elizabeth aims for something that she shouldn''t cut! Then, a space connected to somewhere appeared behind Rumia causing chills to run down her spine. ''An attack!'' The Guidance of the Deep Sea triggered, but a gigantic scythe resembling a mantis'' de cleaved down at her. She attempted to dodge from the right side, but with the size of the scythe and the time of predictability of the iing attack, she didn''t manage to fully dodge it as her left arm got cut off! The water whip didn''t manage to block the attack because of the strength of the monster''s hand that came out of nowhere. ''You got me... Heh.'' Rumia thought, acknowledging Elizabeth''s rational thinking of using other means. Elizabeth didn''t vite the strict rule to directly attack using a skill, she just opened a space connected to somewhere and let whatever came from there attack Rumia from behind. Rumia realized what attacked her as she bled after losing her left arm. It was the Hidden Boss Monster that ttened the top of the Rock Turtle shell! Chapter 59 The Cheeky Princess [The hidden Boss Monster, ''Kuri'' has appeared!] With Elizabeth cutting a wrong designated space coordinate based on her vision given by her Skill: White Perception, a scythe came out of the 2-meter-long portal that cut off Rumia''s left arm, causing her to bleed tremendously that continually draining her Stamina and Health. ''It''s painful...'' Rumia couldn''t even scream with the pain as the warmth of her body turned cold, then the coldness became numbness. She rolled a few meters away from the portal instinctively after sensing the iing, yet unexpected attack. After ten seconds, she leaned on one of the gigantic trees, looking at Elizabeth who was breathing heavily due to expended mana. She was looking at her from a few meters away with a smile on her face, then after a few seconds, Rumia said with a tone of an acknowledgment as she smiled back at Elizabeth, someone she was very close to. "End this..." The hidden Boss Monster named ''Kuri'' seemed tearing the space with its might, but considering the rank of the Jellyfish Ind, it couldn''t pass through it as itcked the power against space or it didn''t have the corresponding skills or traits that would let it defy the space itself. After a minute or two, the portal created by Elizabeth by cutting a coordinate that she shouldn''t cut closed off, leaving her and Rumia alone near the shell of the Rock Turtle as the quiet atmosphere disys a feeling of peace. Elizabeth approached Rumia who was leaning on a tree as she sat down. Blood sttered all over her body, a sight that was very difficult to believe under the strangers'' gazes, but Elizabeth and Rumia were not unfamiliar with it as they killed criminals who were guilty and sentenced to capital punishment before as a form of their real-lifebat training. Even though the ''Old World'', an era pre-Emergence ceased to exist, there was one thing that didn''t change... Laws governing everyone. But the method of proving the crime of someone was done in a whole different mannerpared to the ''Old World'' because of the existence of Skills that could affect the suspect, to tell the truth without resistance. Some people or ''yers'' abused their power granted by the System. Some people killed others as cold-blooded murderers. Some people incited others tomit heinous acts. Some people sold things that were extremely detrimental to society. These were some kind of people that deserved capital punishment or death which Rumia and Elizabeth executed under the form of training. As Elizabeth reached Rumia''s spot, she sat down while maintaining a meter away from facing Rumia. She smiled at Rumia before she spoke with a cheeky tone. "Okay, then. Hehe." Rumia, who saw Elizabeth''s smile felt something ominous. ... Rika Snow, the Ice Mage; Dessa Deya, the Rod Spinner; Murktan Khan, the Brute Enforcer, and Henriad Frostine, the Winter Ranger under Rumia''s group heaved a sigh of relief as they thought of securing at least 80 points of ''Group Grade'', but soon, their expressions stiffened at the same time as if they witnessed the evilest act in the world. "W-what?" Rika''s mouth was slightly agape at the sight in front of her, as well as everyone else, except for a woman who has auburn hair and brown eyes under eyesses, and a woman who has deep ck hair and deep ck eyes, who was watching the spectacle in the holographic screen. "We''re doomed." Murktan whispered in a tone as if his soul left his body, his expression turned pale. Henriad who was watching what was happening in front of them shut his mouth, but his expression turned poignant. "Pffttt-" Dessa, even though losing was inevitable, found the spectacle happening in the Virtual World between Elizabeth and Rumia funny. ... "E-Elizabeth?? Aren''t you going to finish me off?" Rumia asked, feeling something ominous, while Elizabeth sat in front of her, their faces at least 30 cm away. Elizabeth took out two potions from her Virtual Dimensional Inventory. One potion has crimson liquid, while the other has purple liquid. It was a Health and Stamina potion! "W-what are you doing?? And where''d you get that??" Rumia asked in wonder while Elizabeth casually answered her. "I picked it up, don''t tell me you expect us to y cat and mouse for a day and a half here without obtaining some resources?" Elizabeth spoke,mpooning Rumia. She didn''t answer what she was doing, instead, she opened the lid of the Health and Stamina potion, then poured it into Rumia''s severed arm. As soon as it was poured, pixels that reminded them that it was a virtual world, coalesced, forming Rumia''s arm. She got healed in an instant! Rumia''s expression turned nk before she asked with curiosity. "Why??" Elizabeth smiled at her before she spoke in a gentle manner. "I can''t kill you, you know. Even though this is just a virtual world... We''re bestfriends. After a few seconds of pause, she stood up from where she sat, looking down at Rumia before saying... "Okay, see you." Rumia reflexively reached out her hands, but Elizabeth vanished from her spot. "H-hey!" She was going to ask about what they should do from now on, whether they should kill the hidden Boss Monster called ''Kuri''. After a minute or two of leaning on a gigantic tree while looking at the blue sky, Rumia felt something was amiss. Realizing what was wrong, Rumia''s expression turned gloomy. ... ~ Whoosh-! A Virtual Capsule from each side opened at the same time where Elizabeth and Rumia came out. Rumia Flora''s expression was so gloomy that her eyes were getting wet, forming some tears. She looked at the other side where Elizabeth came out. Elizabeth grinned at her, finding the situation amusing. Their group members approached them, with different expressions. On the one hand, Elizabeth''s group members thanked her for winning. On the other hand, Rumia''s group members consoled her, saying it was okay, but deep inside their hearts felt like being stabbed by countless needles, and their minds were only saying one thing... ''My grades...'' ... After ten minutes before the start of the next group participants led by Leon von Obreyon, and Anya Amasawa. The holographic scoreboard got updated: [Group 1 vs. Group 2] Win: Elizabeth von Etherion''s Group Group Grade: 100 Individual Grade: Elizabeth von Etherion ¡ª 95 Remark: She was a powerful leader, capable of making judgments, and cunning, but she didn''t consider the opinions of herpanions at the start of the activity. Ba Palesnow ¡ª 90 Remark: She was a good support, capable of making judgments on her own that wouldn''t be detrimental to her teammates... Marokh Lhan ¡ª 85 Remark: As a tanker, it''s normal to be in the front, but it''s not good to focus only on what''s in your front. Brynn Drake ¡ª 90 Remark: As an assassin, this individual has good judgment when to change his targets if the situation was unfavorable. Lance Blinzel ¡ª 90 Remark: As a spear user, utilizing the tank in the front was a good move tond an attack while hiding behind the tanker. Lose: Rumia Flora''s Group Group Grade: 30 Individual Grade: Rumia Flora ¡ª 80 Remark: She was a good leader as she could unite her group in a very short amount of time, but she was somewhat ''gullible'' in the end. This act would be extremely detrimental in the future. Rika Snow ¡ª 90 Remark: She has good coordination with her teammates, and she understood easily what her leader implies. Dessa Deya ¡ª 90 Remark: As someone specializing in using a rod-type weapon, she utilizes a speed that capable of outrunning an assassin. She also knows when to help her teammates. Murktan Khan ¡ª 85 Remark: Aside from good coordination, a surge of emotions due to a sense of rivalry affected this individual''s role. Henriad Frostine ¡ª 85 Remark: Being a yer utilizing a bow and arrow, it''s not every time this individual should stay in the rear. Utilization of the environment was a great advantage, but being an obedient member was good in itself. ... Freya Moon who was watching from her seat unconsciously smiled at Elizabeth and Rumia who was throwing a tantrum at her bestfriend. ''I didn''t expect Elizabeth to heal her just to run away for ten minutes with Rumia''s Obelisk Token.'' It was a cheeky act, but somehow proved their genuine friendship to the core. "Let''s take a break! 30 minutes! If you are not here by 29 minutes, and 59 seconds, you are out. Go!" Professor Murak''s authoritative voice snapped off Freya''s thoughts. The match between Rumia and Elizabeth''s group ended in less than 20 minutes in real-time because of the unexpected, quick movement via Teleportation that helped her to find Rumia''s group in that short amount of time. "Freya, have you eaten yet?" Amelie Rose asked, sitting in the middle between her and Amery. "Yes, sigh-..." Freya replied as she nced at Amery who was looking at Amelie with an inexplicable expression. ''This girl''s matching the cold atmosphere of this cold room.'' Freyampooned,paring Amery''s cold personality to the cold room for virtual activities. "Hello, is this seat taken?" Freya, Amelie, and Amery looked up at the woman with auburn hair and brown eyes wearing eyesses. There were eighty seats in the room, matching the number of virtual capsules. Basically, a student could sit anywhere he or she wanted. "Yes..." Freya replied as she smiled at Samantha Hall. ''I wonder why she''s wearing eyesses?'' Freya thought, looking at Samantha who sat beside her. After the Emergence, with the consolidation of Earth''s Mana, physical disabilities vanished as quickly as popping bubbles, thus, the deterioration of eyesight was healed. But some still wear eyesses for fashion but considering Samantha''s personality that she had observed for almost two months, it was highly unlikely that she wore something like that just to look good from another''s point of view. ... "Congrats..." Han Jiho said to Elizabeth, sitting beside him while Rumia was one seat apart from him. Rumia''s eyes were still teary while casting piercing res at Elizabeth who seemed to ignore hermenting bestfriend. "Thanks..." Elizabeth said before she munched on a cookie she brought. After ten seconds, Han Jiho asked out of nowhere... "What do you guys think of Samantha?" Elizabeth, Rumia, as well as Anya, and Leon who were behind them pricked up their ears. "Samantha... where''s that woman, by the way?" Elizabeth looked around, seeing Samantha talking with three women sitting five seats behind. Upon seeing the scene, Elizabeth smiled with a genuine expression before answering Han Jiho''s question. "Hmm... To be honest, I don''t know." Elizabeth said as she pinched her lower lip slightly with her right thumb and right index finger. Elizabeth''s answer came as strange from Han Jiho''s perspective, but for her, Rumia, Anya, and Leon who interacted with Samantha, especially because of family rtions knew what Elizabeth meant by ''I don''t know''. The four of them just simply do not know. "Is that so... how about her strength?" Han Jiho asked, recalling that she was the Rank 1 in the whole first year. He had wanted to fight her, but he didn''t get the chance even during training at Exclusive Training Grounds for A-1 students because he couldn''t just approach her out of nowhere with her indescribable bearing. "Ohhhh, you''ll attempt to fight herter, right?" Elizabeth asked casually while knowing that Han Jiho''s group was against Samantha''s group. Han Jiho noticed something peculiar with Elizabeth''s wording as he thought inwardly... ''attempt...?'' ... Before the end of the given 29 minutes and 59 seconds, everyone who got out of Obelisk of Virtual Technology already came back. Some were holding snacks and drinks, while others were already munching the food they bought. After a minute, Anya and Leon, as well as their respective group membersy down inside their designated Virtual Capsules. [Checking the user''s Retina Imprint] [Checking the user''s Brain Waves] [essing the user''s Subconscious] [Loading... 1%] [Loading... 99%] [Loading... 100%] At the same time, being 3 kilometers between each other, Leon, and Anya''s group entered the Virtual World. [You have arrived at the Desert of the Luminous Scorpion] Chapter 60 Desert Of The Luminous Scorpion [You have arrived at the ''Desert of the Luminous Scorpion''] [Warning: Pain Reduction is NOT avable] [There will be NO Pain Tolerance] [Every stat, rank, and skill was retained in the Virtual World as per the Virtual Capsules settings] ... A redhead woman with a bob hairstyle and ruby-colored eyes took a nce at the Virtual System Messages before scanning her surroundings. There were another four students in her group who were ncing around, observing the same environment they were thrown into. They saw a vast desert where a portion of sand was traversing in the air. There were also ruins that were at least 50 meters tall from their line of sight, as well as oases from a hundred meters away. As they nced around, they took note of what they''d seen before and during Elizabeth and Rumia''s match. Elizabeth who used Teleportation along with her teammates managed to find various resources in that amount of time before finding Rumia''s group, leaning on Rock Turtle''s shell. "Everyone, conjure your weapon and armor first." The redhead woman said, prompting the other four students that consists of two women and two men. "... Alright, Anya, what''s the n?" It was difficult toe up with a n before the battle without knowing the location of the Virtual Dungeon that would serve as their Virtual Battleground. Anya Amasawa, the redhead woman that has ruby-colored eyes looked at one of the men who asked her before saying... "Let''s find resources first. Anything that could help." The two women and two men nodded their heads before following behind Anya who looked at one of the oases a hundred meters ahead. Before the start of their match, each of them said what they were specialized at, not their actual professions as it was a personal matter. Although simrities could be seen with one''s role, professions could still be different in many ways. Anya Amasawa''s group members and Anya herself could make some guesses based on the weapon they conjured. Anya conjured a ''Chained Double-Sickle'' weapon with an ominous aura as if it was hungry for death. The strange thing whenparing it to other conjured weapons of her teammates, it looked very ordinary that one might think that Anya''s poor in resources. There were only numerous lines scattered across the two Sickles attached to a long chain that separates them. One of the two women conjured a ''White Staff with an attached Blue Crystal Ball on its end, as well as two White Feathers protruding on both sides just a few centimeters below the Crystal Ball. While the other woman conjured two ''ck Gloves'' which were automatically attached to her hands. It was in ck gloves that didn''t have anything to stand out. On the other hand, one of the two men''s weapons was a ''tinum Bow'' that looked like it was made from various gems due to the luster it''s giving, and the remaining member was holding a ''Metallic Shield'', unintentionally implying that he was a ''Tanker'', but at the same time, he was holding a ''Spear'' that looked like a Trident based on its tip. As Anya''s group traverses the vast desert, they felt cautious with the unfamiliar virtual world because there might be traps under the uncountable sand, at the same time, monsters of desert-kind. Just fifty meters away from an oasis, Anya''s senses were triggered causing her to stop in her tracks. Just as one of the members would ask her, monsters jumped out from the sand, five meters away from them. Not waiting for them to be observed by the intruders on their territory, the monsters leaped from their position, lunging to Anya''s group. But before itnded on them, a metallic arrow was shot, piercing the abdomen of the monster. [Your Group Member, ''Arash Hood'' has killed a Topaz-Tailed Scorpion] After twenty or thirty seconds, subsequent Virtual System messages appeared on the side of Anya''s vision. [Your Group Member, ''Arist Stallion'' has killed a Topaz-Tailed Scorpion] [Your Group Member, ''Celiya von Elydine'' has killed a Ruby-Tailed Scorpion] [Your Group Member, ''Erina von Elydine'' has killed an Emerald-Tailed Scorpion] Even though they didn''t tell each other about their professions, Anya Amasawa already knew as she pried into their Status Windows using a Status Appraisal Skill. Arash Hood has ck hair and grayish eyes that wields a tinum Bow with his profession''s name as ''Metal Archer''. Arist Stallion has ck hair and brownish eyes that wields the Metallic Shield, as well as a Spear that looked like a Trident. Celiya and Erina were sisters and nobles from the major country, Cassiopeia. Celiya has slightly long blonde hair and yellowish eyes, her weapon was the ''White Staff'' with Blue Crystal Ball on its tip, and strange White Feathers that felt like it''s alive attached just below the tip. Based on Anya''s memory, not wanting to trigger her Skill again just to check, Celiya''s profession was Battle Priestess, while Erina, who was wearing a pair of ck Gloves that has the same hair color as Celiya that was ponytailed, but has red eyes has the profession of Weaver Master. Just as Anya was recalling the details of her group members as each of them was inspecting the dead Scorpions, she frowned as she remember something randomly. ''That Russell Moon from Banquet... Tsk.'' She used the Status Appraisal Skill on the student named Russell Moon who was invited by Samantha Hall to dance during the Banquet of Obeliskst month. She couldn''t find any reason why someone like him was close to Samantha, or at least superficially. That''s why she found that man ''suspicious'' for some reason. Or maybe she just couldn''t understand the train of thought of the number 1 Rank in the first year of Obelisk Academy. ... After a minute or two, as they checked the bodies of Scorpions that had peculiar names based on its tail, they found some loot aside from points that they received from killing them. Specifically, they acquired two Health Potions, three Stamina Potions, and one Mana Potion. "It''s strange..." Celiya, who heard Anya''s muttering asked her what she was thinking about. "The bodies of the monsters didn''t dissipate." Anya pointed out what she was thinking, pricking the eyebrows of her group members as they came to realization before Erina asked with a bit of hesitation. "...Should we collect their bodies?" "That might be the right thing to do." Celiya answered her ''younger'' sister, looking at Anya, Arash, and Arist. The three of them just nodded before they proceeded in collecting the corpses, stuffing them inside each of their own Dimensional Inventory. After five minutes of processing and collecting the dead Scorpions, Anya spoke to Arash, the Metal Archer. "...Arash, do you have trap detection and scouting skills? I suggest you observe first from a distance the oasis up ahead." Arash nodded and agreed to advance first upon hearing Anya''s suggestion. As the wind that contained some sand was swirling in the air, the visibility of the oasis, even though it was less than a hundred meters, was quite terrible. [Activating Skill: Light Walk (D-)] [Activating Skill: Dual-Eye Enhancement (D-)] The Light Walk skill helps him to be nimbler in rough terrains as well as giving him a bonus of 30 Agility for 20 minutes, while the Dual-Eye Enhancement helps him to not be obstructed by objects in his vision such as sand or snow, it also enhances his vision by two-fold, and allowed him to ''detect traps'' with the minimum distance of two meters up to five meters, depending on what kind of traps. After five minutes of arriving at the perimeter of the oasis, Arash scanned the surroundings with his enhanced vision and found some burrows, circling a smallke in the middle. ''...There are no traps... I guess they''re the trap itself...'' Upon inspecting for another time as he circled the whole oasis'' perimeter, he managed to confirm that no traps were lying ahead. ... After another five minutes, Anya, Arist, Celiya, and Erina saw a figure running toward them. It was Arash who went ahead earlier. ~ Hup-... Slight breathing was heard from him, prompting Anya to ask... "Do you need Stamina Potion?" "...No, I''m good... By the way, I''ve confirmed..." Arash Hood recounted everything he saw at the oasis up ahead. ''No traps, some burrows circling a smallke... ''Is there something in theke?'' Anya was making deductions as she saw Celiya and Erina were thinking deeply, too. ''They are not on Rank 8 and 9 for nothing...'' After ten seconds, Anya spoke the n she had in mind. ... ~ Ploing-! After stretching his right arm, and pulling the bowstring, Arash released a magic arrow, drilling into one of the burrows surrounding the smallke. This ''magic arrow'' has an invisible, magical string attached to it. This could also be used for grappling. [You have killed, ''Sand Beetle''] [You have gained 0 points] Anya was also notified about his teammate that killed a Sand Beetle hiding under the burrow. ''...Being a leader is really troublesome, getting notified for your member''s achievement or whatever.'' Anyampooned inwardly as she checked the other burrows that didn''t have any reaction. One of their ns was to try if they could lure out what was hiding beneath the burrows. Then, they would check if whatever''s beneath the other burrows would be alerted by a sneak attack. "One more..." Anya said to Arash, prompting him to nod before she shot again a magical arrow with an invisible thread. She noticed the zero points they gained as a group. [You have killed, ''Sand Beetle''] [You have gained 0 points] Anya looked again at Arash, then he understood what that look meant so he didn''t question her. ~ Ploing-! With the stretch and release of his bowstring, the same magical arrow was fired inside the ''same'' burrow. This was the third shot. ~ Shriekkk-! [You have killed, ''Topaz-Tailed Scorpion''] [You have gained 1 point] Anya, who received a different Virtual System message, but signified the same thing as having her teammate kill a monster and gain a point, thought... ''I see... It looks like those Sand Beetles were acting like a shield... but why without points?? Hmm...'' ~ Ding! As she pondered, a group notification sounded in their ears. Anya, as well as the others, looked at the holographic screen from the Virtual System, wearing various expressions. [Group Notification! Quest Title: Liberation of the Sand Beetles Type: Sub-Quest Description: Free the ''Sand Beetles'' from the grasp of the Scorpion Leader. Rewards: Mount the ''Sand Beetles'' to traverse the desert. Failure: umted points will be reduced to 0. Time Limit: 12 hours] ... Anya didn''t know what expression she should make as her expression turned deadpan, but somehow she found the situation ''cute''. ''...Normally, quests in real life are only applicable to yers with contracted Constetions...'' She recalled what her father told her... To further strengthen the ''Authority'' given by the Constetion, or to receive ''New Authority'', the yer mustplete the given quests of the contracted Constetion. ''I remember father took at least 7 years to finish his given quests...'' Anya recalled as she looked at her group members with the looks of what they should do. ''I guess they made it like this for some fun...'' Anya thought as she felt like she was in a game, soon, a yful smile formed on her lips. She looked around again at the environment, seeing some trees on the perimeter of the oblong-shaped oasis, a smallke in the middle, and tens if not hundredths of burrows on the ground. "Let''s take a detour first..." Anya said casually because, in the 12 virtual world hours duration, they could find more resources before attempting to finish the quest. Arash, Arist, and the Elydine sisters nodded their heads as they followed Anya, going West of the desert. ... At Leon von Obreyon''s side. Leon and his group which consists of all men arrived at towering Ruins due East of the desert. [You have entered an unknown Ruins] Chapter 61 Bizarre Scorpions "All of you may have been wondering about the Quests that were given to Groups 3 and 4 because, during the match between Groups 1 and 2, no quests were given to them. The reasons are that the two Groups made contact earlier than expected, and due to the Virtual System''s detection of a different kind of ''Teleportation'' skill in Elizabeth''s subconscious, the Virtual System extended the time before triggering the Quests meant for them. Also, if you are concerned about the Virtual System recording your Status Windows, please rest assured... Because the Status Window data of a student is going to be erased ''automatically'' each time the student finished using the Virtual Capsule. It is to protect the privacy of every Obelisk student." Professor Murak''s voice resounded within the Room where A-1 students were sitting, watching the spectacle that seemed like another reality inside the holographic screen. The Quests that appeared for Anya and Leon''s group also alerted the spectators outside the virtual world because they could hear whatever was happening through the gigantic holographic screen showing the point of view of both groups at the same time, thus alerting everyone of the existence of quests. Professor Murak who saw some students'' curious looks and murmurs informed everyone, he also included the ''data gathering'' of the Virtual System that might soon be a cause of concern if it was not rified. Elizabeth von Etherion, who heard what Professor Murak said slightly scratched her head, looking at Rumia beside her with a poignant expression. ''I shouldn''t have Teleported right away... I want to have fun with a quest, too!'' As a Princess of the country ''Etheria'', she knew about the existence of Quests that were given by Constetions at some point. Her mother also received it, took her 5 years toplete it. "Who could have known that they modified the Virtual World here?" Elizabeth muttered, causing Rumia to slightly scoffed at her words before saying... "You''re one to talk! If you did just wait a little longer, you know!" Rumia said with a poignant tone, remembering what happened earlier that ced her grades on this particr subject in the ''red borderline''. ''I want to y, too! Argh!'' Rumia screamed inside, feeling like she wanted to smack her bestfriend''s head. Although both of them was Princess of their respective country and had killed numerous criminals at a young age under the form of training, opening their view to the ugly side of reality, they still retained their spirits and longed for simple leisure as they own Virtual Capsules in their dormitory room, as well as in their homes. ... [Group Notification! Quest Title: Ruins Investigation Type: Sub-Quest Description: Investigate the Ruins of an unknown name. Free the unknown prisoners inside the Ruins. Rewards: Favor of the Prisoners. Failure: umted points will be reduced to 0. Duration: 12 hours] As soon as Leon and his group members stepped inside the unknown ruins, a group notification entered their ears at the same time. Leon frowned upon reading the description as he thought inwardly... ''F*ck*ng... are they considering this as a child''s y or a game?'' Being the son of the Guildmaster of the Top 5, Phantasmal Guild, expectations were cast on him during his youth which caused him to take things seriously most of the time, especially when it was about something that involves his family name, ''Obreyon''. Although it didn''t make his sense of humor disappear, he just felt that sometimes things were out of ce, just like right now. Leon looked behind to check his group members as they stopped their steps for now because of the unexpected notification, causing them to wear different expressions. After five seconds, other group members were waiting for whatever Leon was going to say as they reorganized their thoughts. Leon scrutinizes the inside of the ruins, ording to what his vision sees. The unknown ruins were at least a height of a hundred meters and a hundred meters in length with a dim atmosphere. There were minor cracks above, causing the virtual sunlight to pass through, illuminating some of the surrounding areas. This provided Leon and his group members to at least efficiently check the dimmed areas. There were towering pirs, serving as the foundation of the ruins. There were also circr doors from the right and left sides of the ruins. It was a simple one-way ruin with mysterious doors, but its danger was that it might only have a single exit, where they entered from. As Leon pondered about the design of the surroundings and its possible indications, he saw a gigantic circr door under the dim area at the end of the ruins, he managed to do so because of his strengthened vision. ''Prisoners... It means there is a prison here, but the problem is the location whether it''s from aboveground or a secret underground. And I''m certain there''s no such thing as freebies as traps and monsters might be lying somewhere.'' As he thought inwardly, he looked at some circr doors, smaller in size than what he saw at the end of the wall before looking back at his group members, he then spoke... "Hey, Tyrion, you have a trap detection skill, right?" A blonde man with ckish eyes, and has a rectangr body type looked at Leon before saying... "...Yes, Sir Leon." pAn,Da-n0v e1,c The politeness of Tyrion to Leon was something not surprising for the other three group members because, for some string of fate, their families were all vassals of the ''Obreyon Family'', under the Phantasmal Guild. ''It''s better that I was grouped up with people under me.'' Leon thought as he felt that it was a hassle to have group members he wasn''t close with. He and the other three group members followed behind Tyrion as he took the lead to check for possible traps ahead. Although monsters cannot set a trap for themselves unless they were intelligent beings, some ruins have traps on their own for some inexplicable reasons. After a few minutes of walking, Tyrion spoke... "There are traps ahead, on the ground and some are on the walls..." He pointed out the ground with traps that would be triggered if someone step on it, as well as traps on the wall that would be triggered if someone passed through its line of sight. "Wait here, I''ll take care of it..." Aside from being able to detect traps, Tyrion also has the ability to disarm them, though it depends on the trap formation because some were tooplicated which led to various effects such as curses and random location transportation. For now, Tyrion''s ability was to disable traps that were physical in nature. Normally, to disarm traps, most of the time, it needs to be in close proximity to the one who would disarm them, but with his skills, it could be done at least ten meters away. [Activating Skill: Threads of Disarming] Upon the activation of his skill, numerous yellowish threads that were connected in his hands came out, moving on their own as if they were chasing something. Soon, sounds of trap activation resounded in everyone''s ears. A few meters ahead, the grounds with traps copsed, revealing spikes beneath that could deal serious injury or death if a person wasn''t a high ranked. These spikes contained brown luster as if it was possessed by spirits wandering the desert. Then, traps on the wall that were touched by the yellowish threads from Tyrion''s hands fired numerous arrows... Leon, who saw the scene felt that something was amiss... Because the arrows that were fired from triggering the hidden traps didn''t hit the ground. ''It hit the circr doors on the walls!'' ~ Rumble-!!! Just as Leon thought of that, their group heard rumbling sounds almost everywhere in front of them, following it were Virtual System group notifications that contained the same messages that says... [You have triggered unknown traps.] [The doors of the slumbering ''Scorpion Guards will be opened.] [Defeat the Scorpion Guards to proceed to the next area.] "...Ah sh*t!" Leon cursed in thin air. It was heard by Tyrion who wore a terrified expression, not because of the monsters, but of his mistake. Just as he was about to apologize, Leon raised his right hand, indicating that it was not a time for such a thing. "It''s okay, just focus right now." Leon wouldn''t be mad at such trivial thing, especially in a virtual world, but it was a different matter if it was outside. Also, they didn''t expect that the traps on the walls were triggers for other traps. It was like a trap ovepped with traps. ... [Topaz-Tailed Scorpion Guard] Guards of the Desert who were lost in time. They had witnessed something thousands of years ago which gave them negligible intelligence. Health Points: 1,000 Mana Points: 1,000 Stamina Points: 1,000 Stats: Strength: 100 Dexterity: 100 Constitution: 100 Agility: 100 Vitality: 100 Perception: 100 Willpower: 100 Tenacity: 100 Charm: 3 Luck: 6 Magic Power: 100 Skills: Crude Weapon Mastery Upon watching something thousands of years ago, it tried to mimic what it saw, resulting from achieving a crude weapon mastery. Rank: F- Effects: It was able to wield weapons of its choice, but ording to its experience, it was very likely to wield a weapon it witnessed firsthand. Desert Slumber A sleep for eternity until someone wakes it up. Rank: ??? Effects: A Scorpion Guard who used this skill would enter a deep slumber that would make it immortal against the passage of time. Its negative effect was that it won''t be able to wake up on its own unless various conditions were triggered. Leon, Tyrion, and the other three group members checked the information about the monsters that came out of the circr doors from their right and left sides. Some were holding rusty spears on their pincers; some were holding rusty swords; some were holding chained sickles, and some were holding scythes... These Scorpions were holding various kind of weapons that signifies a yer''s profession. It was a very bizarre sight even for Leon who read documents from Phantasmal Guild''s Strayed, and Tower Dungeon raids. ... An inexplicable smile appeared on Professor Murak''s mouth as he watched the spectacle on the holographic screen at the back of the Room designated for Virtual Activity. He was very familiar with the sight of what Leon''s group encountered. It was a Strayed Dungeon from his country ''Bhaskara'', the desert country situated at Northern Arka which was the Southernmost part of the Orion Continent. Strayed Dungeons do not vanish upon theirpletion, it was the same for Dungeon Towers of all levels aside from the ''Close Mystery Towers'', rather, they closed for a period of time. What happened to Strayed Dungeons and Dungeon Towers after it was cleared was the restoration of its environment and inhabitants, then it would be avable again to be raided by ''yers''. But for some reason, Professor Murak who participated in the investigation of the Strayed Dungeon named Desert of the Luminous Scorpion via System''s information discovered the oddity with the ''Desert Slumber'' skill because it raises the question... ''Why would the Scorpion Guards have such skill, if they would only resurrect after being raided by yers?'' The information was forwarded to the renowned Researcher and Schr, Emmanuel Lyncoster of the Obelisk Institute of the Origin. It waster decided to intentionally spread, but not mention this oddity to students. Although Professor Emmanuel Lyncoster was a very intelligent individual, he acknowledges that by some random words of spection of the students, he might realize something he hadn''t thought of yet. "Ahhh! I want to fight that!" Professor Murak''s thoughts were cut off by Rumia''s slightly loud voice, prompting other students to look in her direction. This caused Elizabeth tough before smacking her in the head. Although it was not prohibited to talk and exchange ideas as they observed what was happening in front of them, it was better not to cause inconvenience for others. ''You''ll see more interesting things, soon.'' Professor Murak thought inwardly as he recalled that every piece of information in the holographic screen before the start of Virtual War wasn''t everything there was. ... At Anya Amasawa''s group side. Upon collecting some resources, they managed to make a camp made of desert woods and tree leaves near the target oasis as they prepared for thepletion of their quest. Anya browse again the quest given to them as she thought inwardly... ''It''s just a sub-quest...'' Chapter 62 Sub-Quest Completion ''It''s just a sub-quest...'' Anya Amasawa thought again inwardly as if a bulb of light appeared inside her mind as she came to a realization. ''It means there is a ''Main Quest''...'' Anya looked around towards the small-size camp situated at least 15 to 20 meters away from the oasis. The behavior of the desert weather was unpredictable from the start. Sometimes the sand was abundant in the air, reducing the visibility to at least 4 to 5 meters, but sometimes it was crystal clear as if some kind of power swept the sand away. During that time, they managed to set up a camp, thanks to the calm of the weather. As it was only afternoon right now, a bonfire wasn''t needed that might alert other monsters other than from what''s within the oasis with a smallke with sapphire-colored water in the middle. [Quest Duration: 6 hours, 42 minutes, 3 seconds] It''s been more than five hours since they scattered and explored the periphery of the oasis with caution. For some reason, there were scorpions on the periphery that appeared randomly which they got rid of, but it didn''t alert whatever kind of monsters were hiding beneath those burrows circling the smallke. They discovered resources such as cloaks that were specifically made for desert exploration inside some treasure chests that were dpidated and might crumble with a slight touch. "Anya, what''s the n??" A blonde woman of noble blood asked. It was Celiya von Elydine who was also wearing a brownish hood that helped her against the sand, she was acting like a second-inmand, delivering the concerns of thepany. Anya pondered for a moment, looking at the Virtual System where the duration of the quest could be seen before she spoke. "We''ll set out in 40 minutes, prepare everything you can." By everything they can, Anya referred to what they gathered, it included low-grade potions of various kinds such as themon necessities which were Health, Mana, and Stamina potions, but there were some rare, costly potions when ites in real life which was called Durability Potion. The purpose of Durability Potion was to repair slightly, mending the condition of weapons and armor because there were cases of equipment corrosion during the raid depending on the geographic information of the Dungeon that likely determined what kind of monsters were inhabiting it, especially when raiding a Dungeon Tower at Peak level which takes a month before the yers could replenish their resources. It was extremely detrimental for yers, not to be able to repair their weapons or armor during Dungeon Raids. Thus, Durability Potions were invented by yers with the Alchemist profession in general. ... Before the forty minutes of preparation ended, Anya called Celiya and Erina who were chatting about some things of trivial matters as they organized what they collected, but a hint of joy was painted across their faces, perhaps finding the situation regarding the ''quest'' as fun, as well as Arist, who organized some potions including the Durability Potion because as a ''tanker'' that would lead the front, his weapons were prone to destruction, and Arash who just came back from exploring the surroundings due East, the opposite direction from their temporary camp and the target oasis. "Before we proceed, is there any concern?" Anya asked casually while looking at everyone with her ruby-colored eyes. It caused thepany to be momentarily dazed as if another being was looking at them. After two or three seconds, Celiya spoke, asking again what she had asked earlier. "Anya... hmm, about the n?" As if she expected such a question to be asked again, she said with a genuine curious tone. "About that, if any of you have any idea, open your suggestions because it might be better than what I''m thinking, but first, Arash, have you detected any traps?" As a Metal Archer, Arash wasn''tcking a trap detection skill, he spoke, wondering why Anya asked. "No, there are no traps within the oasis itself." "I see..." After pausing for a second or two, Anya spoke casually, but her next words caused confusion among her group members as their eyes started darting around, looking at each other''s eyes. "That''s good then. we should just barge in the front." Anya was someone who didn''t want to n outplicated things if she grasped that the matter or difficulty was within a reasonable degree, but for others, especially for a student like Celiya, who was not a pure battle-type yer despite being a Battle Mage, and like to n things to increase the chance of sess, she found Anya''s words as confusing, but for some reason, she also felt that it was alright to do just that. ''...I thought you were thinking earlier about different kinds of ns when you were so quiet in the corner.'' Celiyampooned inwardly before she looked at Arist Stallion, she then spoke the crux of the n of just barging in. "Arist, how about it?" Celiya asked him, prompting thepany to look at him. It was because he was a ''tanker'' that barging in front was something he needed to agree with before proceeding. "Alright, let''s do this!" He said energetically as he held the top of his shield with his hands as it touched the sand on the ground. ''As if we have a choice...'' Celiya sighed inwardly as she thought that even if Anya asked for their suggestions, it was highly unlikely someone would go against what she said. ... After walking for a minute, Anya and her group members arrived at what seemed to be the only entrance of the oasis, it spanned at least three meters. The oasis has a single erected wall, circling the entire ce, spanning 50 meters, but the wall''s height was just four or five meters, which made a yer able to jump on it. The trees beside the circr wall were taller which helped Arash in scouting the area, thus gaining general information inside. Arist Stallion, a tanker of some kind stepped in front of thepany he then unleashed a taunting skill. [Activating Skill: Howl of Provocation (Lvl. 1)] Upon skill activation, Arist''s back seemed to contain an illusory image of a lion. Its howl reverberated in the entire oasis. This skill was highly effective with monsters of low Tenacity and Willpower stat. Monsters around 30 meters would lose their reason for 10 seconds with the duration increased per level, and attack the yer who cast the skill as if they were blind, not minding the surroundings. It could be heard by other monsters outside the effective range, but it would cause them to stagger, making themte in response. ~ Rumble-! The entire oasis quake, prompting everyone to take a defensive stance. [You have disturbed the ''Slumber'' of the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Guard] This Virtual System message appeared in everyone''s sight. Soon, numerous scorpions leaped out of those burrows that didn''t match their size, causing the ground of sand to erupt, scattering in the air which reduced Anya andpany''s visibility slightly, but it caused their sight to be blocked, alerting them more of possible sudden attacks. Then, after five seconds, the sand that blocked their sight was swept away by the wind causing the women''s hair to flutter, then it restored their sight, allowing them to see what kind of monsters they were facing at the moment. These brownish scorpions were at least three to four meters in height and five meters in length including the pincers'' length that were twice the size of the arm of an average human. They were a bit bigger than scorpions roaming the periphery of the oasis, and one of the noticeable differences was that these scorpions didn''t have gems at the end of their ''tails'' unlike the Topaz-Tailed, Sapphire-Tailed, Ruby-Tailed, and other kinds of them that Anya''s group encountered. There were also some beetles of considerable size that have bodies that were colored like the sand, attached to the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Guards pincers, presumably the ''Sand Beetles''. Their conditions were critical while some were already dead. ''Based on the quest details, we can mount them, I think they are friendly creatures... enemies of these scorpions.'' Anya made a simple, but urate deduction. The others probably thought the same, seeing the sight in front of them. Without waiting for their fellow scorpions to leave the burrows, some of them already lunged at Arist because of the Howl Provocation effect. But before the first scorpion reached his Metallic Shield, a Sickle with contorted lines attached to a chain cut the scorpion in half. [You have killed a Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Guard] Numerous scorpions lunged at Arist, but it was quickly fended off by Anya andpany. Arash Hood shot out heavy metallic arrows, different from the magic arrow he used earlier in poking a burrow, pinching some scorpions on the ground as they were hit in their abdomens. Scorpion Guards that were still breathing after that were finished off by Celiya who used long-range attacks such as the Skill: Light st (D). A ball of light would be formed upon skill activation, firing out of her White Staff with a Blue Crystal Ball and peculiar White Feathers resembling a pair of wings together. The ball of light explodes upon contact and burns the target monster. The group formation of Anya''s group was excellent, especially because of the sturdy tanker in the front. ... With Anya taking care of the scorpions punching the metallic shield of Arist, and Arash, shooting the approaching others. "Erina!" Celiya called out to her younger sister. And as if Erina understood what her older sister meant... [Activating Skill: Hands of Thread] With skill activation, two Illusory hands appeared on each hand of Erina, releasing their own threads on each finger, and binding the rushing scorpions from afar. Having a profession of Weaver Master, her skills were focused on thread maniption. It was best for crowd control, but she also possessed attack skills that supplement her crowd control skills. "Older sister!!" Due to the sound of continuous rumbling, even though they were at most, two meters apart from each other, Erina shouted as a cue for her older sister''s next action. During this moment, Erina controlled her hands, as well as the four Illusory hands, making the tied Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Guards clump together. "Alright..." Celiya muttered before she cast a skill exclusive for a Battle Mage. [Activating Skill: Whirl of Feathers] A slightly big magic circle appeared atop the clump of scorpions, producing white feathers that spun around them. Soon, these scorpions were swept inside the whirl of feathers, cutting them to pieces! Then, with Erina''s Hands of Thread, these pieces were thrown in the smallke in the middle! With the assumption they talked about earlier during the engagement of Arist using Howl of Provocation, Anya and Celiya surmised something about the smallke. ~ Thud-! At this moment, the Scorpions Guards that came out from burrows were almost eliminated with at least ten remaining, rushing to Anya''s group as they survived the Whirl of Feathers from the sidelines. ~ Rumble-!! The smallke shook, but this didn''t stop the remaining approaching Scorpion Guards without a gem in their tails, at the same time, the Virtual System notified each of them of the same message. [The Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Warden has been awakened!] Without any further warning, a ten-meter in height gigantic scorpion jumped off the smallke, then its water spread in the air as if rain has urred. ~ Bang-! One of its pincers punched Arist Stallion''s Metallic Shield, causing the ground of sand to seemingly explode. It was as if a shotgun was shot in close proximity from above, causing his feet to lower leg to be buried in the ground! With the impact, Anya, Celiya, Erina, and Arash who were a meter or two away from Arist''s spot were sent flying with the unexpected attack. ~ Argh! They heard their own groans, but immediately snapped off their stupor as they remembered Arist who took a massive hit even with the Metallic Shield! As soon as they stood up to go to Arist''s side, they heard a loud shriek within the smoke of sand! ~ Shrieeeekkk-! ~ Bang-! ~ Shing-! ~ Shrieeeekkk-! ~ Thud-! ~ Thud-! With a loud thud, silence prevailed across the oasis. It was just a minute or two that had passed, then the smoke of sand dissipated. Celiya, Erina, Arash, and Arist whose feet and lower leg were buried in the ground saw Anya standing atop a dead gigantic scorpion with a streak of red blood smeared on a side of her face, probably from the unexpected impact of the gigantic scorpion. Although they were initially caught off guard, based on the impact they received, they knew that taking care of the Scorpion Warden was within their capabilities. What they saw just now left them dazed, but with feelings of admiration. Then Anya, who was in a moment of stupor, looked down from where she was standing, seeing her group members, as she held the two Sickles on both ends with her hands before saying... "Let''s clean up." As she said that, they heard a stomping sound from afar, approaching their direction. With a nce, they confirmed the identity of the source of those stomps, followed by a notification that entered their ears. "Sand Beetles..." ... At Leon''s group side. ~ Hahh... Hahh... Leon, Tyrion, and the other group members slumped down on the ground, gasping for air. ''F*ck!'' Leon cursed inwardly as one of his group members died while the others has a mutted leg or arm being healed at this moment. He then looked at the pile of dead bodies of bizarre-looking scorpions. They just finished killing the Scorpion Warden, then they saw numerous cages with scorpions, but without gems attached at the end of their tails. As they freed the scorpions named Gemless-Tailed Scorpions without the word ''Guard'' attached to them, a notification resounded in their ears. [Group Notification Quest Title: War of the Species Type: Main Quest Description: With the Gem-Species Scorpions running rampant across the desert, it caused them to be cautious and started hiding as the Luminous Scorpion, King of the desert ordered his men to capture the other species to be made ves! Due to this, the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions had no choice but to secure food by killing the Sand Beetles. Clear Conditions: Aid the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions against the Sand Beetles from the West! Rewards: Data Copy of the Virtual Battleground, ''Desert of the Luminous Scorpion.'' Failure: umted points will be reduced to 0. Duration: 12 hours Virtual System''s Note: There is another way to clear this quest!] Chapter 63 Start Of The Main Quest [Group Notification Quest Title: War of the Species Type: Main Quest Description: With the Gem-Species Scorpions running rampant across the desert, it caused them to be cautious and started hiding as the Luminous Scorpion, King of the desert ordered his men to capture the other species to be made ves! Due to this, the ''Sand Beetles'' had no choice, but to do any means to survive! Clear Conditions: Aid the Sand Beetles against the Gem-Tailed Scorpions from the East! Rewards: Data Copy of the Virtual Battleground, ''Desert of the Luminous Scorpion.'' Failure: umted points will be reduced to 0. Duration: 12 hours Virtual System''s Note: There is another way to clear this quest!] ... Anya Amasawa andpany looked at the Group Notification in front of them. Although they had long guessed that there was a Main Quest, they didn''t expect that it was a War between the Sand Beetle species against the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion species. What''s more, were the rewards for clearing the quest. "Anya, do you have any idea about what''s a ''Data Copy''?" It was Arash Hood, the Metal Archer, who asked the question. Anya, Celiya, and Erina had vague ideas regarding the reward while Arist Stallion, the tanker of some kind was waiting in puzzlement for Anya''s answer. After two to three seconds, Anya spoke casually, but somehow, her tone contained more motivation. "Data Copy means that the Obelisk Academy will transfer the data of the map, as well as monsters in our personal Virtual Capsule inside our dormitories... In this case, it''s this map where we are right now..." Celiya and Erina nodded at Anya''s words, confirming their guess while Arash and Arist widened their eyes in shock, before asking with a tone of disbelief. "T-that means we can use this map to personally train, right??" Anya nodded at his words. Virtual Capsule that was provided to every A-1 student only has data of a ''Virtual Training Ground''. It''s like a square enclosed space, but it was a wide one based on the real Obelisk Public Training Ground arena. Its only downside was that it didn''t have monsters to fight with. Virtual Capsule, especially personal ones was often used for mental training due to the fixed time difference of 1 is to 3, or an hour in real life, three hours inside the Virtual Capsule. It was a different kind of Virtual Capsulepared to what they''re using right now where its time difference depends on what the Professor requested it to be. ''This is very rewarding, does the Obelisk Academy want us to fight to the death?'' Anya thought as she looked at her group members, she then saw Arash and Arist who were fired up with the reward as their eyes glimmered. After five seconds, she looked at the Sand Beetles circling them with a look of reverence. They arrived at the oasis after the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Warden died whichpleted the quest. "Thank you for saving our imprisoned kind." The biggest one of the Sand Beetles which was eight meters in height and eight meters in length, spoke in a deep voice, prompting Anya andpany to flinch. They were momentarily at a loss for words as they looked with different expressions at the Sand Beetle that resembled a rhino beetle because of its protruding horns from its left and right, as well as in the middle. ''An intelligent monster...'' Anya reined in her thoughts as she inspected the monster''s details. [Sand Beetle King] One of the Three Kings of the Desert of the Luminous Scorpion! After avoiding the tyrannical rule of the Luminous Scorpion, the Strongest King of the Desert, food became scarce for the Sand Beetle Species that they resolved to eat another species which were the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions, thus it caused deep animosity between the two species. Health Points: 2000 Stamina Points: 2000 Mana Points: 2000 Stats: Strength: 200 Dexterity: 200 Constitution: 200 Agility: 200 Vitality: 200 Perception: 200 Willpower: 200 Tenacity: 200 Charm: 5 Luck: 5 Magic Power: 200 Unique Skill: Gigantification (Passive) By using another species as food, Sand Beetles would grow in size. This unique skill was inherent, and will always be present in their kind. Rank: D+ Size limit: 8 meters Skills: Sand Walk and Burrow (Passive) This is a characteristic of the Species of the Sand! Rank: D Effects: - Allows the Sand Beetles to run faster in the desert. (Sand Walk) - Allows them to hide beneath the sand. (Sand Burrow) Horn Charge Using its speed in the desert and its horns that could pierce even metal, the Sand Beetle King would run to its enemies with its might! Rank: D+ Cost: 250 Mana per charge Cooldown: None Effects: By using Mana, the Sand Beetle King''s whole body will be strengthened, as well as its horns, having the courage to stomp on its enemies. But if the Sand Beetle King hit an enemy stronger than him, it would momentarily stagger. ... ''I see... So that''s what they are for.'' After inspecting the Sand Beetle King, Anya came to the realization that they could use the bodies of the Gem-Species, as well as the Gemless-Tailed ones that they killed. "No problem, we''re here to aid you." ~ Click click click-! The sounds of gratefulness resounded in the oasis. It came from the Sand Beetles of various sizes who couldn''t speak but instinctively followed their King. "By the way, could you help us clean this mess?" Anya looked around where the bodies of Gemless-Tailed Scorpions, as well as the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion Warden, were lying down, devoid of virtual life. She also took out the bodies of the Gem-Species they killed on the periphery of the oasis. Their sizes only range from a meter or two. Seeing what Anya did, Celiya andpany also did the same as each of them had stuffed some scorpions inside their Virtual Dimensional Inventory. After some signal between the Sand Beetles and their King, they proceeded to munch on the corpses of the scorpions on the ground while the Sand Beetle King looked at Anya''s group as if it was waiting to be asked. Anya, who saw the Sand Beetle King''s attitude silently obliged as she asked various questions such as the difference between the Gem-Species and the Gemless-Tailed. The Luminous Scorpion, the Strongest of the Three Kings in the desert began to oppress the other species. Anya andpany encountered them first, any scorpion that have colorful gems attached to its tail was a subordinate of the Luminous Scorpion King. And the reason for the oasis'' existence was that it served as one of the bases of the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions against the Luminous Scorpion King. "Where''s the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King right now?" Anya asked, prompting Celiya andpany to look up at the Sand Beetle King that seemed like a three-story building with its towering height, expecting an answer. "It was sealed in the ruins in the East, but we felt that it broke free for some reason." The Sand Beetle King that seemed fluent in speaking told them the reason. After a few seconds, they guessed what happened. "It''s Leon''s group, for sure." It was Celiya who spoke, she didn''t receive any objections to her guess as everyone tacitly agreed to it. After pondering for a moment, Anya asked a simple question. "How did you know we are here?" ~ Click click click- With soft clicking sounds produced by its mouth, the Sand Beetle King spoke. "After you raided this ce, some of my imprisoned kind escaped and told us the situation. We also felt it from afar as we are connected species." Anya nodded in satisfaction as she looked around at some small Sand Beetles that were a meter in height, but grew bigger by eating the scorpions. ''Although this is just a Virtual World, I''m certain that this Strayed Dungeon in real life has also this kind of situation... but the two kings, Sand Beetle King and the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King were mini-bosses before reaching the Final Boss.'' Thoughts surged in Anya''s mind as he looked at everyone, then her sights ended at the Sand Beetle King before she spoke. "What''s the n now?" ... At the Obelisk of Virtual Technology, Room for A-1 of First Years. The Main Quest shed on the side of one of the holographic screens for everyone to see. Various reactions and expressions instantly formed, especially because of the rewards, specifically the Data Copy of the Desert of the Luminous Scorpion. Freya Moon was texting her older brother, Russell Moon, through her smartwatch as she typed in the mini-holographic screen ''that could be seen'' by other people, but appeared blurry in their vision. "Oppa, I''m excited about my first group battle, but I''m a little anxious because there is no Pain Reduction. By the way Oppa, I''m in Group 6, Samantha Hall''s group. She is asking for you, you know! I heard from her that you were training together at the Obelisk Tracking Field almost every early morning recently. Well, I trained with her sometimes, so it''s only fair. Unfortunately, I can''t always join you because I can''t always wake up that early! Oppa, it is Anya Amasawa and Leon von Obreyon''s battle right now... There''s also the Main Quest or something... I took a picture of it. I hope I could get the reward, too with Samantha! I''m d to whoever thought of such rewards! Wish us luck, Oppa. |Photo Attached|" After sending the message to her older brother who maybe was sleeping still at this moment, Freya cast her gaze at the holographic screen where Anya and Leon''s group who rode each mount of their own headed for the middle of the desert. It''s the signal for the approaching war. ... Room 393, Andromeda Building ~ Ting-! Russell Moon who barely woke up heard the sound of his smartwatch on his right wrist as he was stirring a high-quality ck coffee in a ss. ''This smartwatch has barely any use.'' Russellmpooned inwardly before opening the message that came from Freya. As he read the message, he didn''t know whether tough or cry especially on the part, ''I''m d to whoever thought of such rewards!'' Russell restrained himself to reply that ''It was me'' in a serious manner. ''So far, there are no anomalies or unexpected elements.'' He heaved a sigh of relief before his expression turned into a frown because he was reminded that the original stats of Elizabeth von Etherion, Anya Amasawa, Rumia Flora, and Leon von Obreyon were slightly strongerpared to the novel. This caused him that time to almost be thrown into mental disarray. He checked them one by one during the Banquet of Obelisk after he learned that Samantha''s stats, specifically her acquired Stigma, was extremely different from the original. ''Even though Han Jiho''s stats didn''t divert from the original, he still pped Leon in the rankings. Haha'' Heughed inwardly as he recalled before replying to his younger sister, Freya. "Okay, Good luck to all of you! I hope your group wins! By the way, can you pass a message to Amelie privately? Just tell her that I need her ''ck Market'' information. Thank you!" As Freya learned about Chaos or almost everything about him except his reincarnation and that this world was simr to his unpublished novel, she also learned about Amelie''s predicament, thus she was not unfamiliar with ck Market. With the approaching attack against the Crescent Weaponry Company in two weeks time, their stocks would reach an all-time low, sending them to near bankruptcy. ''It''s time for money harvest.'' Chapter 64 War Of The Species "Freya, what''s your older brother''s hobby when he was a kid?" Out of nowhere, Samantha Hall asked Freya as she was sitting beside her. This came as an unexpected question from Samantha, causing Freya to be momentarily at a loss for words, she then pondered for a moment as her right index finger repeatedly tapped her right cheek unconsciously, remembering her older brother''s childhood. After ten seconds, Freya spoke casually, but her tone seemed as if she remembered something she wanted to forget. "Oppa... he likes to read books and newspapers when he was a kid, especially when he reached 7 years old, but..." Freya pondered for a moment and proceeded to ask Samantha first. "Uhmm... Samantha, do you perhaps... investigated our family?" Without a moment of hesitation, Samantha replied. "Yes. It might look weird from your perspective, but I was just curious... I apologize, that wasn''t good on my part." Freya unconsciously clenched her left fist, but she recalled that her older brother said it was of no concern to be friends with Samantha, and with their family status outside or the whole human domain, they were like antspared to the Hall family. So, it''s better to know about it openly than to be investigated secretly. In a world where power was something in the yer industry most valued, they even have no choice or no way to avoid investigations from people with high status. ''I remember Oppa''s facial expression when Rumia unexpectedly came with us in the Cafeteria before... as if he wanted to avoid her at all cost.'' As she sighed, Freya then spoke... "It''s alright... By the way, I don''t know how deep the information you acquired, but wecked financial resources and managed to just make out for it at least 3 years ago... Back then, we couldn''t even afford to buy a training weapon. Perhaps, you already know where we lived before. As she said thatst line, Freya scratched her head with a hint of ''instinctive'' embarrassment. After five seconds, she continued telling Samantha about her older brother. "During that time, all Oppa and I did was enjoy our childhood normally. And Oppa only managed to hold a sword when he was 13, I was 12 at that time. To be honest, he was very weak at that time, you know. Maybe it was because he just keep on reading books and newspapers almost every day. He was very timid in holding a weapon as if he wasn''t up for it, but when ites to reading, he was like pursuing knowledge... He''s more suited to be a librarian or schr if you''re going to ask me. Hahaha." Samantha, who listened to Freya''s words as she smiled, had a moment of contemtion as she absorbed the information about Russell... and one thing caught her attention the most... ''Enjoy childhood normally...'' "WOAHHHH!!!" "What the heck is that!?" Samantha Hall and Freya Moon suddenly snapped off their thoughts as they heard other students eximing because of the spectacle being shown on the holographic screen. They were reminded that they were still at the Obelisk of Virtual Technology Building, and they were the next group to participate after this. ... At Leon''s group side, Eastern Desert. They started to traverse the vast desert as they came from the East. Using the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions as their mount, their speed increased drastically. Each of them was riding a five to six meters scorpion except for Leon who was on the back of an intelligent monster called ''Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King''. Leon and his group members were informed about the situation regarding the tyrannical rule of the Luminous Scorpion King, the Strongest King of the Desert out of the Three Kings. Leon also assumed that Anya''s group probably encountered the other King which was the Sand Beetle King. He also asked the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King a question about why they needed to go to war against the Sand Beetle Species. Aside from theck of resources that were stolen by the Gem-Species Scorpions under the Luminous Scorpion King, the reply he received was very simple, ''We can''t beat him.'' Leon remembered the details of the Main Quest... ''There''s another way to clear the quest...'' As he thought about it, he asked again the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King as he sat on its back. "You sure there''s no other reason why you are at war with the Sand Beetles?" After a moment of silence, the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King let out a sigh that was like of human''s before it spoke. "There is no use hiding it from you. Alright... The other reason is that our species will be amodated by the Luminous Scorpion King if we kill the Sand Beetles." Leon, who heard what the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King said, frowned as he felt something ominous. He also felt like he grasps the another way to clear the quest. ... At Anya''s group side, Western Desert. After more conversations with the Sand Beetle King, Anya realized what the other clear condition was. ''It''s to kill the Luminous Scorpion King that will appear during the war.'' It''s not very difficult to predict considering the predicament of the Gemless-Species, and the Sand Beetles. But for some reason, Anya felt something was amiss as she reined in her thoughts, making some deductions. First, they might need to cooperate with Leon''s group which might result in getting stabbed in the back. Especially, with the strict rule of not using an attack skill ''directly'' against the opposing group, it would be troublesome that during the uing war, they jumped in the skill that was meant for scorpions,mitting suicide in the process, thus resulting in our disqualification. ''Although we could do the same. I''m not low enough to sacrifice someone for my gain, I''m not sure about him though.'' Second, due to theck of resources and plundering, the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions and Sand Beetles already had animosity with each other. Third, the Luminous Scorpion King that has a high chance of appearing was probably lying about amodating the winner between the two Species, and there''s a certain reason why ''he'' or ''it'' wanted the extermination of the other two Species. "Miss Anya, we are seeing the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions. It also has humans on top of some of them." The Sand Beetle King who referred to Anya politely spoke. pAn,Da-n0v e1,c She then reined in her thoughts, looking ahead to the vast, in desert that was devoid of life from nature. About 150 meters away, she saw Leon and his group members staying in their positions as if waiting for an order. The Sand Beetles also came to a stop after seeing the enemies. "I guess this is it, huh..." Erina spoke with a tone of anticipation. Although it was only in the virtual world, participating in a virtual reality war that didn''t have a Pain Reduction would feel so real. After a few seconds, the ground quaked from the Northern part of the desert as they saw scorpions with colorful gems on their tails. Some had red, representing ruby. Some had yellow, representing topaz. Some had blue, representing sapphire. One stands out among them, it was a 15-meter-tall Scorpion that had various colorful gems on its tail, unlike other Gem-Species that only had one. And it was holding a gigantic sword! "Oh, humans, humans! I didn''t expect to see you here. What a great sight to behold! Now, puny humans, I see that you also have something to settle with each other. Do what you want! The species that will win this war will be part of my army! Hahahaha! We will watch what you can show us! The tyrannicalugh of the Luminous Scorpion King sent shivers to every other creature including Anya and Leon''s group. Although it was bearable for them, it was different from the Sand Beetles and Gemless-Tailed Scorpions as some of them have evidence of fear in their eyes. Anya looked at Leon''s side as she estimated the numbers of their enemies to be at least 600 to 700. ''What?... There are only four of them... I see, one of them died.'' It''s almost the same with the Sand Beetles, but when she looked at the Luminous Scorpion King''s side, ''it'' has at least an army of 1,000 to 1,100 strong. After five seconds, she swept a nce at the Luminous Scorpion King to check its stats. [Luminous Scorpion King] The Strongest of the Three Kings of the Desert. As he witnessed something incredible thousands of years ago, he developed, exceeding the limit of his species by gaining intelligence. After he became drunk with power, he ruled over the Gemless-Species and the Sand Beetle Species. He plundered both species to raise his army as others were not deemed worthy in his sight! Health Points: 5000 Stamina Points: 5000 Mana Points: 5000 Stats: Strength: 500 Dexterity: 500 Constitution: 500 Agility: 500 Vitality: 500 Perception: 500 Willpower: 500 Tenacity: 500 Charm: 6 Luck: 6 Magic Power: 500 Unique Skill: Gem Utilization (Passive) Upon its activation based on the Luminous Scorpion King''s will, ''his'' next attack will have the corresponding element based on the degree of luster of a gem on its back. Rank: D+ Effects: The five colorful gems attached to ''his'' back have different kinds of power, representing elements. - Red represents fire element attack. - Yellow represents sand element attack. - Blue represents water element attack. - Green represents nt element attack. - White represents a non-elemental attack. Skills: Intermediate Weapon Mastery Upon witnessing a mystery from before, it has attained a level of intelligence, resulting from the System granting it such skill. Rank: D+ Effects: Grants the Luminous Scorpion King the ability to wield any weapons, but for some reason, ''he'' chose a sword. Wave sh With the utilization of ''his'' Unique Skill, the Luminous Scorpion King has the ability to send wave shes with different elements. Rank: D+ Cost: 200 Mana per sh Cooldown: 0 seconds Effects: - A wave of elements that has a length of 10 meters will be sent at the targeted distance. It has a range of 20 meters. ... Anya''s eyes constricted as she inspected the information of the Luminous Scorpion King, standing in front of its army, 150 meters away from them due North of the desert. It''s like watching a y from a theatre as it''s spectating from the audience seat. ''It has stats equivalent to C+ rank, I mean he has...'' Anya thought as she recalled that the Virtual System referred to the Luminous Scorpion King as a ''he'', not ''it''. As Anya reined in her thoughts, she heard the sounds of stomps from afar. Leon started to attack! It has only been five minutes since they got into position. "Hahahaha! Great! Great! What bravery that is!" The deep, tyrannical voice of the Luminous Scorpion King reverberated across the desert. After one to two seconds, Anya decided to attack as her voice echoed in everyone''s ears on her side. "ATTACK!!!" She stood up on the back of the Sand Beetle King as their army marched towards Leon''s army. Then, on her deration to attack, the Virtual System notified them of another message. Anya and Leon''s group instinctively knew what it meant. The other way to clear the main quest! [Main Quest update!] [The another way to clear this quest is to unite the two Species to rebel against the tyranny of the Luminous Scorpion King! Upon deciding so, the Data Copy reward will be lost as the unification of the two species, together with your ''groups'' will ''certainly'' bring victory! Hence, both groups will receive different unknown rewards uponpletion! Virtual System Note: The original clear condition of killing the opposing leader or stealing the Obelisk Token and running for ten minutes will still be applied in this situation!] ... Leon von Obreyon, who quickly read the Virtual System messages about the main quest update, couldn''t help but curse inwardly at the situation as he felt a sense of urgency, causing him not to be able to think properly. ''F*ck, f*ck!!!'' "ATTACK!!!" He shouted again towards his army as the distance between both armies was reducing fast. 50 meters... 35 meters... 15 meters... 5 meters... ~ Bang-!!! ~ Hup-! The Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King and the Sand Beetle King crash against each other, as well as other species who proceed in their own battles! As both of them crashed, Leon and Anya jumped off them, they then swung their weapons mid-air! ~ ng-! ~ Shing-! ... Anya''s thoughts flowed with numerous deductions and questions as she keep exchanging attacks with Leon. ''Does the Luminous Scorpion King knows that if one of us died, this will end?'' ''Or the Obelisk Academy has decided on another way to nurture students after this?'' ''Unite... Unknown rewards... Against tyranny...'' As her thoughts raced, she felt like lightning struck her head as she came to a realization... ''If Leon died, they will lose... but it won''t end yet for my group! There''s a loophole to this! If we unite and directly attack the Luminous Scorpion King, we won''t receive the Data Copy as a reward... but if one of us died, and the remaining one unites the two species to rebel against ''him''... it might be a different case.'' Anya decided to finish Leon off and then take his army of Gemless-Tailed Scorpions to fight against the Luminous Scorpion King. If her guess was correct, it wouldn''t end yet through Leon''s death. It was like a bonus challenge. "Ha!!!" After flipping in the air, Anya swung one of her two Sickles, pushing back Leon on the ground as he defended with his sword that has a design depicting a ''Dragon''s Tail''. ... After ten minutes in the virtual world... The difference between Rank 6 and Rank 3 in the A-1 of the First Year was very clear as the blood from a blonde man and deep blue eyes gushes out of his neck. ... The students who were watching the holographic screen where a great spectacle was happening saw Leon''s head fly off as a quick slice from the back hit him. Something he didn''t expect as he forgot to ount for the other sickle on Anya''s weapon. It was a two-end Sickle with a chain binding them. ''What a weapon control...'' Amery Blight, who was watching silently with her aloof and cold atmosphere thought. Chapter 65 Knowing Ones Limits [You have sessfully killed the leader of the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions.] [The Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King and ''its'' subordinates have submitted to your rule.] Anya and Leon tacitly became the leader of the Species they led. After Leon''s termination, his surviving group mates also turned into pixels, leaving the Virtual World of the ''Desert of the Luminous Scorpion''. After that, a group notification appeared in Anya and herpany''s vision. The virtual world seemed to freeze, stopping the time inside. The army of the Luminous Scorpion King, as well as the Sand Beetle King and the Gemless-Tailed Scorpion King, stopped their movements as no sound echoed in the ears of Anya''s group anymore. [You have won the ''Virtual War''] [Your group has received the qualification to continue the frozen virtual reality as a bonus challenge.] [You have been given a choice! 1. War of the Species - Part 2 - An attempt to continue to fight the Luminous Scorpion King and his army with the given duration of 15 minutes virtual time. - During this time, you will have full control over themand of the Gemless-Tailed Scorpions and Sand Beetles. Rewards: - Data Copy of this virtual dungeon. - ??? 1. Virtual War Recognition. - Choose to end the ''Virtual War'' as a winner. Additional Rewards: These rewards, aside from Group Grade and Individual Grade, were given for participating in the Main Quest. - ??? - ??? Virtual System Note: Pain Reduction remains at zero percent] ... Anya looked at the Virtual System messages that appeared in front of her, and her group members. She then took a nce at them to observe their conditions. Celiya and Erina, the Elydine sisters had a look of exhaustion, but they were just looking at Anya, their leader while waiting for her decision. It was the same for Arash Hood who was slumped down on the back of one of the Sand Beetles he was riding that was frozen in time, the perfect ce to shoot from using his metallic arrows. It was the case for Arist Stallion as well, he squatted down as one of his hands was touching the top of his metallic shield. [Please make your decision] [War of the Species - Part 2] [Virtual War Recognition] Anya heard another Virtual System notification and checked the messages it sent. This time, it was only avable in her vision. After pondering for some time, she didn''t hesitate to click what was ''necessary.'' ... [You have chosen ''Virtual War Recognition''] [You have won against the opposing group] [Your group will receive the ''Group Grade'' of 100 Points] [Logging out of the Virtual World] ... ~ Whoosh-! The lid of the Virtual Capsules opened at the same time, where Anya''s group was lying down, causing some cold air or fog to be released. After ten seconds, Anya and her group members stood up in front of the Virtual Capsules as various gazesnded on them. Some pped, some had words of praise, while some had a look of wonder because of Anya''s decision. It was the same for Leon as his fists clenched uncontrobly as he sat from the distance, near Elizabeth, Rumia, and Han Jiho''s seats. ''Why...!?'' He asked himself silently as he couldn''t believe why Anya made such a decision. Although Leon acknowledged Anya as stronger than him, he was someone who would not give up to do anything to surpass them. It was not an excuse for his loss toin about the restriction of using ''attack skills'' directly against the enemies because it could tell one thing, one way or another. If someone who has quite a good weapon control fight against someone who was great at it. Even using attack skills would make no difference, especially if the rank of each other didn''t have a huge gap. ... "Anya... why?" It was Celiya who asked as they walked from the Virtual Capsules to their seats. The others also had a look of wonder, but after a few seconds, Anya replied sinctly. "We wouldn''t win." These words left Celiya, Erina, Arash, and Arist''s mouths slightly agape as if they couldn''t believe it came from someone like Anya who was the daughter of the 3rd Rank yer, Guild Leader of Olympus Guild. But after some time, Celiya reined in her thoughts as she said inwardly... ''Maybe it''s because she''s the daughter of the 3rd Rank yer that she could make such a decision.'' Although each of them wanted the Data Copy of the Virtual dungeon map of the Desert of the Luminous Scorpion, they realized their limits, especially when their leader made an unexpected decision. ''Come to think of it, what are our additional rewards?'' Celiya was just about to tap Anya''s shoulder when she received a ''mail'' notification from her smartwatch. It was the same for Anya and thepany. [From Obelisk Academy yer Management] [Due to reaching ''almost'' the end of the Main Quest, and winning the ''Virtual War'' arranged by Professor Murak ahead of time... You have been given the following rewards: 1. 15,000 Obel 2. A Rare-ranked weapon of your choice. - To im your rewards, please visit the Obelisk Weaponry Building and just present your Obelisk I.D. Thank you for participating! I hope you will continue to grow for the sake of humanity!] ... Anya''s group members didn''t have enough time to process what have they just read as Professor Murak''s voice resounded in their ears. "I''m sure you''ve received the emails just now, it''s my personal gift for all participants for your efforts. And you, Rumia, and Elizabeth''s group will receive something, too. Even if your fight earlier was nd enough!" Although whatever Professor Murak would give themter, it would be nothing of value to Elizabeth and Rumia as Princesses of their respective countries, but to their group members, it might be of great help at some point. The other students who have yet to participate seemed confused about what Professor Murak was talking about. Professor Murak who saw others'' expressions said... "Anyone who will participate in this Virtual War will receive something from me personally. It depends on your participation, as well as what you achieved during the activity. The reason I just announced this right now and not earlier is simply that I wanted to see the first groups of participants on how serious they would take this activity..." Elizabeth and Rumia who heard that felt embarrassed, especially Elizabeth who was yful during her match against Rumia. "The rewards are unknown, but the important matter is whether you will fight to gain something... or just to survive." Thosest words reverberated across the Room of Virtual Technology designated for A-1 students. ... Anya''s group members, especially Arash and Arist who were not from an aristocratic family thanked Anya because of the rewards they received. The money amounting to 15,000 O, as well as gaining a Rare Weapon had equal value in their perspective. The weapons they conjured during the Virtual War inside the virtual world were also Rare, but having a spare one wouldn''t be, too bad for them. ... ~ Whoosh-! The lid of Virtual Capsules opened at the same time from left and right as Samantha Hall, and her group members, and Han Jiho, and his group members lined up in front of the Virtual Capsules. It was now their turn for Virtual War. "I''m d we just need to wear our P.E uniforms." Freya Moon said randomly. Samantha who heard her just nodded slightly because, on other yer Academies, students needed to wear an ufortable suit beforeying down inside a Virtual Capsule. "Good luck, Freya!" Amelie said as she waved her hands in Freya''s direction, prompting Freya to look at her, she then also saw Amery who just nodded slightly as her way of saying ''you can do it.'' After twenty to thirty seconds, every participant from groups 5 and 6y down inside their respective Virtual Capsules. It, then closed as fog emitted outside, indicating the coldness of the atmosphere. Freya entered the void of the program as a blue holographic screen appeared in front of her, and a woman''s voice of unknown origin entered her ears. [Checking the user''s Retina Imprint] [Checking the user''s Brain Waves] [essing the user''s Subconscious] [Loading... 1%] [Loading... 99%] [Loading... 100%] [Perfect Avatar representing the student''s physique and skill information has been created.] After a few seconds, her view changed. She saw her group members from her side. It was Samantha Hall, their leader, with a look of aloofness as if she considered this situation as something that needed to end quickly. Celine Cello-ana, the student who Professor Murak called in the front during the assembly before the Virtual War information was given to them. Her slightly long green hair was fluttering around before she took something out of her Dimensional Inventory, it was something to tie her hair. After that, she was darting a nce with her green eyes at her surroundings with a look of apprehension. It was the kind of person who didn''t know what to do next. The other two group members were named Ethera Crimson, and Markin Harbor. Ethera Crimson has ck hair and red eyes with a height of 167 cm, and her ss was called ck Mage, while Markin Harbor, who came from Country of Desert, Bhaskara has brownish hair and brown eyes, and his ss was called Sand Tanker. After reorganizing themselves, they proceeded to read the notifications in front of them. [You have arrived at the ''Cemetery of Oblivion''] [Warning: Pain Reduction is NOT avable] [There will be NO Pain Tolerance] [Every stat, rank, and skill was retained in the Virtual World as per the Virtual Capsules settings] [Due to the Fog of Oblivion emanating in the virtual dungeon, you must remain close together with a distance of at least 5 meters maximum, or else, if you get far away from one another, you will vanish in 5 seconds, resulting in death.] ... On Han Jiho''s group side. [You have arrived at the ''Cemetery of Oblivion''] [Warning: Pain Reduction is NOT avable] [There will be NO Pain Tolerance] [Every stat, rank, and skill was retained in the Virtual World as per the Virtual Capsules settings] [Due to the Fog of Oblivion emanating in the virtual dungeon...] Each of them read the subsequent Virtual System Messages. They looked at the surroundings where the night was evident, there were numerous graves scattered almost everywhere, as well as ten to fifteen meters of trees. "Hey, these gravestones wereid in front of some trees..." One of Han Jiho''s group members said. He has silvery hair and grayish eyes with a height of at least 170 cm. An inhabitant from the Country of Ice, Arka. While maintaining a distance to avoid vanishing which was equivalent to instant death, some of them approached some gravestones to take a look. Then, a woman with red hair and yellowish eyes wrapped her arms around Han Jiho''s, causing him to frown slightly as he said inwardly. ''This woman is annoying.'' "I''m scared..." With a cheeky smile, she said with a fearful tone, but Han Jiho knew that she was faking it. "Wait, let go. I''ll check that..." Han Jiho pointed to a nearby gravestone, but he felt something ominous towards it. The woman followed him before she said... "What''s that...?" The woman read the lines written on the gravestone as her voice reverberated to the forest enveloped with fog, prompting other group members to look at her. "Moon of Oblivion "Vanquisher of Souls "The White of the Sky "Its Eyes Opens Wide..." Suddenly, shivers run down their spines as if a mighty existence was looking at them from above. The woman''s figure turned Illusory as it vanished instantly. [Your teammate, Nicole Summer, has died due to an unknown existence.] Chapter 66 Cemetery Of Oblivion "Anya, my lovely daughter... You should remember that when ites to additional gains or one''s life, it is always the right decision to choose thetter. The yer Industry is such a terrifying ce that sometimes you could get stabbed in the back by someone you are close to. But, at the same time, if you correctly judge the character of the people you are with, and make them yourpanion, that would be priceless on your journey as a yer in the future. "You are strong, perhaps will be stronger than me within the next few years. Treat your prospectpanions as friends, and consider their conditions during or after raiding a dungeon... Do you know what''s the bestpanion for you? "It is someone who will NOT always obey you just because of your name, and just because I am your father. "Why is ''his''st name like that?? You should not be curious about such a thing for now, haha! But that''s a great observation. You''re really my daughter! "Anya, my dear... do you know one of the most terrifying things about raiding a dungeon?? "Haha, you''re so cute, that''s probably why you''re my daughter! The Boss Monster is given to be a terrifying thing... "But, it is the behavior of the environment that is closest to it." Anya, who was sitting near Elizabeth, Rumia, and seats away from Leon, as well as her group members from her early battle, recalled his father, Makoto Amasawa''s words randomly from a few months ago before the start of her Obelisk Academy journey. ''To think that I''d apply some of those pieces of advice during an activity, virtual reality at that...'' But, one thing she quickly understood from what was shown on the holographic screen just now was the environmental behavior that was closest or as terrifying as the Boss Monster. A woman with red hair and yellowish eyes from Han Jiho''s group suddenly turned Illusory, and death came after. ''If my eyes don''t deceive me, it seems like Han Jiho baited her into reading what was on that gravestone.'' The man named Han Jiho that aroused Anya''s curiosity was a very weird individual from her perspective as he seemed tock somemon sense or humor in this society. ''It is his looks that garnered the attention of other women, what a troublesome thing. And that behavior... It was like that ''man''...'' Although Anya''s facial features were considered one of the top beauty, ordinary people, even aristocratic ones hesitate to approach her because of herst name, as well as her ''obvious'' doting father. Just as Anya thought of that, she heard the sound of a capsule lid opening where the woman with red hair and yellowish eyes came out with a crystal clear disgruntled expression on her face. After that, Anya heard another woman''s voice near her which containedughter and words such as ''what a b*tch''. ... For some inexplicable reason, the atmosphere turned colder, and the night seemed to be more haunting as the Fog representing Oblivion slightly dissipated, causing the whole group to be more exposed to the unknowns as if a pair of eyes were watching them somewhere. This caused shivers on everyone''s back as if the fear of being forgotten was plucked out of their subconscious to resurface. "Don''t look up." Samantha Hall said sinctly, but her tone contained an atmosphere that made one unconsciouslyply with her words, washing away the instinct and curiosity to look up at the night sky where moonlight illuminated the ground. It was just a few minutes since they arrived in the virtual world and with their leader''s words, they instinctively understood that something must have happened. Although they didn''t know what exactly. "Conjure your weapons and armor if you desire so." Due to Samantha''s previous words, her group members seemed to enter a state of stupor that made them forget to conjure their weapons and armor. Upon hearing those words, they felt embarrassed as if they couldn''t do anything without their leader''smand at the moment. One by one, Freya, Celine, Ethera, and Markin conjured their weapons and armor from their subconscious. Freya conjured a weapon she was most familiar with. It was the first Rare Weapon she held a few years ago after the financial situation of their family, as well as their living environment, has been resolved. It was a shortsword with a simple half-moon design engraved on its cross-guard. Ethera conjured an antique-looking book that has ck color and strange patterns, it contained a Closed-Eye on its cover. One of its notable characteristics was that it was floating beside her as if it has a life on its own. The weapons and armor they conjured in the virtual world were a product of their subconscious, something that left a very deep impression on them that it would be the first thing toe into their minds. Freya, who saw it, as well as the other group members except for Samantha, had a curious look on their faces. ''Where in the world have you seen such a bizarre thing?'' Freyampooned as she saw the floating ck notebook beside Ethera. Markin didn''t conjure any weapon, just a simple-looking brown temail without a helmet. It was for two reasons, on the one hand, as a Sand Tanker, the focus of his skills was sand maniption where he could create a shield made from sand, or any kind of soil as long as it didn''t have something on them that would make him unable to do so. On the other hand, though it was possible to conjure a shield, it needs to possess the Earth element, but he didn''t do so to practice his skills of manipting sand because a weapon could be taken away at any time, but the skills were deep within one''s soul. After a minute of tidying themselves up, Freya looked at Celine wearing an embarrassed expression. "Why haven''t you conjured a weapon yet?" Freya asked in wonder, Samantha who heard her answered in Celine''s stead. "She has a production ss. Alchemist, right?" Celine, who heard Samantha''s words nodded her head before she looked at the ground, not daring to make eye contact with her teammates. Virtual sweat seemed to appear on her forehead due to anxiousness. "Maybe you can try to conjure potions so we won''t need to find them anymore." Ethera from the side of the group said, prompting others to slightly nod their heads. "Ye-yes!" Celine said timidly. ''Are all alchemists timid at the start of their career as a yer?'' Freyampooned inwardly. After ten seconds to fifteen seconds, Celine looked at Samantha before saying with an invigorated voice. "I-it says I c-can''t conjure potions t-that have recovery effects..." She looked at the Virtual System Message in front of her, then she heard her leader''s voice. "What potions you can conjure, then?" "Ah... Uhmm... Agility, S-strength, D-dexterity! It also says I-i can only conjure eight potions..." Celine said as she scratched her right cheek. ''You''re like my Oppa when he was younger.'' Freya restrained herself from saying as she heard the stuttering Celine that resembled her older brother a few years ago as if interacting with others was a disease. Without a sliver of doubt, Samantha spoke as if she knew what was needed in the uing situation. "Conjure four Agility potions, two Strength potions, and two Dexterity potions. I will take one Agility potion, and give one to Freya here along with a Dexterity potion and a Strength potion. Then, one Agility potion for Ethera with another Dexterity potion, and you use the remaining Agility potion. And thest one will be a Strength potion for Markin." Celine who heard that quickly conjured the potions ording to Samantha''s instruction. After twenty to thirty seconds, round-bottom sks floated in the air. Four of them have whitish liquid as if the wind was whirling in them. It was the Agility potions, while the Strength has yellowish liquid that has a yellow luster simr to glitters shimmering in one''s hand, and Dexterity has a mix of colors like a rainbow. The floating sksnded on everyone''s hands ording to Samantha''s instruction. Celine roughly understood why she was asked to take an Agility potion. It''s to aid her in running faster! "Should we consume them now? Orter?" It was Markin who asked as he was holding a Strength potion with his right hand. "It''s better to consume them now, we might not be able to have a chance to do itter." Without any objections, all of them proceeded to consume the potions given to them. [You have consumed, ''Low-Grade Agility Potion in its Pure Form''.] [You have consumed, ''Low-Grade Strength Potion in its Pure Form''.] [You have consumed, ''Low-Grade Dexterity Potion in its Pure Form''.] [You have received an additional 100 Agility.] [You have received an additional 100 Strength.] [You have received an additional 100 Dexterity.] Freya who consumed the potions given to her had her expression turned into shock. As she looked around, she notice that it wasn''t just her, even Samantha has a slight change in her expression while Celine was looking into the ground, showcasing her timid personality. Just as Samantha would point something out regarding the Virtual System message about the potion, they heard a subsequent sound, indicating another message from the Virtual System. [Group Notification Due to the death of someone in this Cemetery of Oblivion, the main quest was forwarded ahead of time!] [Group Notification Quest Title: Moon''s Embrace Type: Main Quest Description: The Strayed Dungeon called Cemetery of Oblivion had erased the existence of countless yers due to ignorance and recklessness from its early days. With thousands of graves buried under the trees of this forest, the Fog of Oblivion was born. And with the death of someone due to one of the reasons mentioned above, the underlying mystery in this virtual world has been triggered, causing the Sleeping Moon to awaken. Clear Condition: 1. Among the scattered gravestones 1000 meters across from your spot, find the one that wouldplete the Poem of Remembrance. After finding it, have someone recite it without vanishing. Warning: Reciting the Poem of Remembrance when the Eyes of the Moon above the sky were opened would result in oblivion. Oblivion means death. 2. Find and kill the one who controls the moon. Warning: This being is in a state of slumber, and has a rank equivalent to A-. Rewards: pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 1. Data Copy of the Dungeon Map, ''Cemetery of Oblivion''. 2. ??? 3. ??? Failure: - The opposing team would automatically win. Virtual System Note: 1. There are two gravestones that have the same poem, each meant for your group and the opposing one. 2. The original clear condition of killing the opposing leader or stealing the Obelisk Token and running for ten minutes will still be applied in this situation! But by choosing this route, the winner wouldn''t receive the Data Copy of this Dungeon Map.] Chapter 67 The Moons Embrace "The Strayed Dungeon, Cemetery of Oblivion only has one floorpared to others who had two floors at most. This dungeon was discovered a few years ago when a group of adventurers was venturing outside the Orion Continent..." Amelie, Amery, and the other students were listening to what seemed like a piece of history that Professor Murak was saying as though he was a tour guide working for a foreignnd or a famous museum. Their gazes were focused on what was in front of them right now as Samantha Hall and Han Jiho''s group continued their pacing to find a certain gravestone that contained the Poem of Remembrance. It looked like it was inevitable for someone to die inside the Cemetery of Oblivion because as per the Main Quest warning, a student shouldn''t read the texts from various gravestones only when the Moon hanging in the sky has its Eyes opened, so as long as its Eyes were closed, one could read as many texts as possible in the scattered gravestones that seemed contained years of history. The problem stemmed from there because they didn''t know if the Moon''s Eyes were open as they couldn''t risk taking a look above to check it. "As you have read the Main Quest details, there''s something that is considered a Boss Monster somewhere, but its rank far exceeded the monsters lurking in the fog. Back then, it caused countless disappearance of yers who attempted to explore and clear it whilecking information..." One of the students raised her hand and asked what happened to the Strayed Dungeon. Professor Murak pondered for a moment as if he remembered something that left a baffling sense of impression in him before answering. "It was firstly cleared by someone you know very well, Ms. Ayleen." The professor who seemed to transform from yer Physical Education instructor to History instructor said with a casual tone. Although it evoked different reactions from the students who were watching the spectacle in the front, there were no further words that followed as everyone cast their gazes on the holographic screen to focus on watching. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 ... A few hourster, inside the virtual world. [You have killed a Monkey Fog] [You have killed a Monkey Fog] [You have gained 1 point] [You have gained 1 point] Han Jiho pulled out his sword from a body that seemed Illusory but somewhat physical in nature. It was a monkey that was made from fog, at least 1.5 meters tall. It has pure white eyes as if it was a representation of a soulless being. Although it could be attacked physically, it contained no blood as it dissipates quickly after death, returning to the Fog of Oblivion. "Jiho, how about I sacrifice myself to take a look above?" Asked a man with ck hair and grayish eyes, who has a height of at least 170 cm. After a few hours of venturing into the forest with countless graves that seemed to tell untold stories, monitoring the scope of their location based on a 1,000-meter radius, Han Jiho came up with deductions ording to their current predicament. First, the haunting feeling that the Moon gave when Tanya read the lines in the gravestone didn''t dissipate even now, giving them the impression as if the Moon wasn''t closing its Eyes while looking down on them, preparing to erase them from the virtual world. Due to this haunting feeling, they couldn''t risk reading the lines in various gravestones they encountered, as well as looking above the sky. ''If I''m the one who read that lines earlier, I''d be dead and my group would have lost in an instant...'' He couldn''t help but thank Tanya half-heartedly for her sacrifice. ''That woman''s so annoying. Is this what Chancellor Alex told me about... the malice of society... I should probablyin to him.'' Han Jiho thought before replying to the man who voluntarily wanted to look above. "No, don''t do it." The man just nodded at his leader''s words. The problem with this action was that they didn''t know how long the Moon above was opening its Eyes, and how long it closes them before opening them again. His second deduction regarding their situation was that their group wouldn''t be able to have a head-on fight against Samantha''s group because there were two gravestones with the same text containing the Poem of Remembrance. ''Should we just hunt them?'' Han Jiho thought as he didn''t want to risk his teammates by allowing them to look above. Although they have good cooperation, and would probably get good ''individual grades'', something that requires sacrifice if there might be a hidden solution would only affect his individual grade as a leader. He remembered the remark of Professor Murak to Rumia''s performance, it was great, but before it ended, she was deceived by the cheeky Princess, Elizabeth. As they kept their pacing, circling around the 1,000-meter area where graves under the trees were situated, a glimmer of hope suddenly came to mind. It was just at this moment that Han Jiho thought of something usible. He looked at his teammates, with Tanya eliminated before saying... "What if we read the texts engraved on the gravestones ''silently''?" His teammates showed the light of hope in their eyes. ~ Ding! Just as Han Jiho would say his next words, their group was interrupted by a Virtual System Notification. All of them proceed to read it silently, turning the light in their eyes into gloom. "H-how..?" Han Jiho muttered as he felt inexplicable emotions surge within him. ... At Samantha''s group side. After repeating the cycle of walking, fighting, and running for a few hours. Samantha''s voice recited the words inwardly as they were walking in the forest where countless graves were lying under numerous trees. "Moon of Oblivion "Vanquisher of Souls "The White of the Sky "Its Eyes Opens Wide... These were the words that were recited by Tanya, a group member of Han Jiho who turned Illusory and died as though she was buried in the river of this virtual world''s history. These words were sent to every one of them by the Virtual System, so they knew where to begin when finding the Poem of Remembrance. Then after some time, Samantha squatted down in front of one of the gravestones, she read the next lines ''silently'', memorizing the texts engraved on it. She then stood up, looking down at the gravestone where she quickly memorized the few lines of text. Her voice reverberated in the part of Cemetery of Oblivion, where the Fog was enveloping the surroundings. Her words caught Freya, Celine, Ethera, and Markin off-guard. They didn''t expect that their leader would recite the iplete poem without any warning! "Moon of Oblivion "Vanquisher of Souls "The White of the Sky "Its Eyes Opens Wide..." After that four lines, Samantha''s next action caused her teammates'' hearts to jump in inexplicable terror. Samantha looked above! "The Passerby Looked at its Eyes "The Moon then sends its Moonlight "Responding to the Solemn Eyes "The Moon formed an Illusory Smile "Lunaria then entered a Sweet Dream "Feeling the Moon''s Embrace." After five to six seconds, a notification rang in everyone''s ears. [Your group has sessfully cleared the Main Quest!] [The Data Copy, ''Cemetery of Oblivion'', will be sent to your Personal Virtual Capsule.] [Additional Rewards will be given by the presiding Professor] [You have won the Virtual War!] [Erasing the personal data concerning the Stats and Skills of the student named...] [Logging out of the Virtual World...] Freya and the others didn''t have time to react as their figure turned into pixels, then their consciousness felt the reality. Samantha''s group received good news, while Han Jiho''s group received the opposite. ... "What just happened?" "How in the hell did she find the right gravestone?" "What was that just now??" "As expected of the daughter of the Number 1 yer!" Reactions depicting myriads of expressions were painted on everyone''s face including Professor Murak. ''How??'' He asked inwardly, feeling a sense of wonder. In the first ce, he didn''t expect anyone to solve the riddle or the underlying mystery that surrounds the Cemetery of Oblivion. He believed that both groups would give up on it and resolve themselves in fighting. Professor Murak clearly recalled that the problem with the Strayed Dungeon was only solved by Ms. Ayleen Mayfield whose Constetion''s Cosmic Title was the [Witch of Dreams]. This was also the dungeon where she got her best weapon right now which was called ''Fog of Nightmare Scythe''. ording to the report he read which he qualified for, it was said that the ''being'' residing in the Cemetery of Oblivion was a woman named ''Lunaria'' who have a human physique, but its hair that reaches her waists was white and her eyes contained silvery pupil, exuding a mystery of fog. ''The way Ms. Ayleen cleared that dungeon was the same... to find and recite the Poem of Remembrance...'' Professor Murak also read the reason for the dungeon''s peculiar environment. Ms. Ayleen wrote in the report that ''Lunaria'', the womanly figure didn''t want to be forgotten. The Poem of Remembrance meant that ''Lunaria'' wanted to be remembered. After countless years of her predicament, she developed the power causing everyone to vanish into oblivion under various conditions, thus it manifested even in the surroundings of the dungeon. The manifestation of this power was called the ''Fog of Oblivion.'' After a few seconds, Professor Murak looked at the lid of Virtual Capsules opening at the same time as another thought surfaced in his mind. ''Should I report this to Ms. Ayleen or the higher-ups?'' Aftering to a realization regarding his thought, he dismissed the thought of reporting it as he silently said... ''Right... her father is the highest of the higher-ups.'' Although he was curious how Artorious Hall''s daughter knew how to solve the situation, he decided to just let it be to avoid unnecessary conflict. ... "Hahahaha! Congrats, Samantha!" It was Elizabeth''s voice, she looked at her from the distance as Samantha was sitting beside Freya and thepany. Han Jiho, who returned to his seat beside Elizabeth, looked in Samantha''s direction, feeling an indescribable emotion. ... "Samantha... how did you know that was the right gravestone? And you even looked up at the sky! It freaked us out, you know!" Freya said with curiosity while feeling grateful inwardly. With Freya''s words, Samantha remembered the out-of-ce Virtual System message she received when she entered the virtual world earlier. [An unknown power has bypassed the rules of the ''Virtual World''] Chapter 68 Thorn Of Rose "Alright, the emails have been sent to Rumia and Elizabeth''s groups, as well as to Samantha and Han Jiho''s group. Remember, the rewards that are stated in your email mainly came from me as your professor, the only thing that the Obelisk Academy Management itself said to be given as a reward was the Data Copy of the Dungeon Map you were randomly thrown into, as well as the weapons..." Professor Murak''s voice sounded in everyone''s ears just a few minutes after Samantha Hall''s and Han Jiho''s group came out of the Virtual Capsules. He indirectly told the students thatining was absolutely not an option. ''How rich is he..?'' Freya thought, recalling the content of the email she received. She then looked at the group of people approaching the Virtual Capsules. It was thest two groups led by Amelie Rose Merveil and Bailey rkson. Before Amelie left her seat, Freya heard her mutter something, ''how boring...'', indicating that she wanted to finish this quickly. Freya knew about the existence of the Chaos Training Grounds from her older brother''s words, maybe she wanted to train there more and not waste time on an activity like this. ''Oppa said I should just wait...'' It''s been weeks since Freya dreamed about something strange where she was floating in endless pure darkness then she was transferred into the front of races kneeling, waiting for their execution. She remained patient because of his older brother''s words and her trust in him, if she didn''t know the situation, she would feel haunted by some unknown. Freya reined in her thoughts as she looked at the holographic screen in front of every student where thest two groups were shown appearing in the virtual world. ... [You have arrived at the ''Forest of the Dark Mist] [Warning: Pain Reduction is NOT avable] [There will be NO Pain Tolerance] [Every stat, rank, and skill was retained in the Virtual World as per the Virtual Capsules settings] Amelie Rose''s mouth curled up upon reading the Virtual System Messages. It was specifically because of the Pain Reduction that doesn''t exist in the virtual world. ''A bonus... but it''s a pity.'' Shempooned inwardly as she considered it a bonus that the virtual battleground randomly assigned to them felt harmonious with her profession and skills, but she soon discovered that her skills were something she couldn''t use even against monsters because the Virtual System didn''t have the records of the corresponding skill rank. Although there were dark element users among yers, especially some that were caught due tomitting crimes, the dark attribute of Amelie''s skills felt somewhat different. ''I guess it can''t be helped... I need to end this quickly... This is just a virtual world, so punishing those bullies...'' She thought that it was the wrong ce for light punishment as she clearly remembered that Bailey rkson indirectly called Freya and Amery prostitutes. She nced at her side where Amery Blight was looking at her without a hint of showing what she was thinking. ''Hey, I didn''t want to be a leader, you know.'' Amelie randomly thought as she felt like Amery couldn''t believe that she was the leader of this group. After some time of organizing themselves, Amelie, Amery, andpany began their exploration of the virtual world. ... After at least an hour in the real world which was equivalent to twenty-four hours in the virtual world, the lids of the ten Virtual Capsules, five on the right, and the remaining on the left opened at the same time. Amelie Rose, Amery, andpany stood up almost at the same time. Then after a few seconds, she took a nce on the other side where Bailey rkson came out. At that moment, Bailey instinctively looked at Amelie''s side, veins almost popped out of his forehead with anger as his anger was soaring up, reaching the limit of his tolerance. ''She cheated...!!!'' Bailey convinced himself of that fact, remembering what happened in the virtual world. For a moment, he saw Amelie''s mouth curled up, turning into a sinister and sarcastic smile as she looked at him as if he was a doll to be yed with. Bailey forgot to rein in his thoughts as his body moved on its own, lunging forward towards Amelie with his right fist clenched. His group members, the other students, as well as Professor Murak saw the situation. Professor Murak, who knew in his heart the Unwritten Obelisk Academy Mantra, let the situation at that moment unfold. He could stop Bailey''s attack instantly but chose not to for various reasons. First, although it was illegal for a fight to break out inside the Academy, it was only if one get caught. He would bestow punishment on the act, especially after it unfolded in his eyes. Second, the Unwritten Obelisk Academy Mantra stated that the one who felt fear in minor situations will not be able to handle the reality of the ''yer Career'' after they graduated from the academy. As an experienced professor and yer, he knew that the future of Bailey rkson was a bleak one considering his temperament. Third, he wanted to confirm the strength of the woman with pink hair and red eyes who ''yed'' with the opposing group during the virtual war to see if he could sense something because no matter what skills a person used in the virtual world, the aura pressure emitted by it cannot be felt in the real world. At that moment, Amelie cocked her head to the right as she dodge Bailey''s fist, then in that split second, her right fist was about to reach Bailey''s abdomen when everyone heard an authoritative voice. "Stop!" Even Samantha who was watching from afar had her hair stood on end due to the miniscule amount of pressure let out by Professor Murak. ''What was that just now??'' In that split second, he seemed confused as though he hallucinated and saw a dark blue aura emitted on Amelie''s right fist, then it vanished instantly as if it doesn''t exist in this world. "Everyone go back to your seats! This will end the activity today, please prepare for the uing event this Wednesday. That''s all, dismiss! And you, Bailey rkson,e with me to Disciplinary Office, right now!" As if the soul of everyone distorted by Professor Murak''s voice, everyone reined in their thoughts and quickly left the room for A-1 students in the Obelisk of Virtual Technology Building. But before everyone left, a man with ck hair and ck eyes looked at Amelie with scrutinizing gaze, then he tapped on his smartwatch as he began typing, texting a message to someone. "I''ve confirmed her strength. Should I send an invitation letter?" ... "You''re cruel." It was Amery''s voice, she recalled what happened earlier. Amelie just smiled as she walked beside Freya. After some time, Freya spoke with a curious tone. "That''s a weird Main Quest you received." "Yeah, I didn''t expect it to be like that. Haha" The content of their Main Quest in the Forest of the Dark Mist is summarized into two words: Psychological Death. The fog with ck color was so thick that everyone''s visibility at that time was less than two meters, and the clear conditions of the Main Quest to either kill the Boss Monster lurking in the dark mist or made way for the monsters to hunt the opposing party. For some reason, Amelie''s vision was crystal clear in that environment, she led the monsters of the dark mist towards Bailey''s group using sounds as her group maintained their distance. It was a wless act as they evaded every monster. The monsters have skills rted to psychological corruption that let Bailey and his group members killed each other, and during theirst moments, they saw Amelie and her group walked towards them before they turned into pixels, ending the virtual war. ... Afternoon, a few hours after the end of the Virtual War Activity of Freya andpany. ? They sat on the couch and brought out from the Dimensional Inventory the food they bought in the Obelisk Cafeteria One. "By the way, you know there are two ways to ess the ck Market, right?" Amelie still asked even though she knew that Russell knew it from the start. "Yes, but it''s troublesome to make an ount, and it''s better if I use your ount... You know... to fish them out." Russell said, hinting at something that Amelie would understand. "You mean..." Her expression turned solemnbined with resolve. Russell nodded at her words. Freya, who was sitting on the far end of the couch beside Amelie didn''t understand a single thing about what they were talking about, then she curiously asked. "Oppa, what will you use the ck Market for?" "To make money." Russell said as his lips curled up. Freya knew that ck Market wasn''t entirely illegal as it has tacit cooperation with official authorities as long as the conflict didn''t emerge due to intersecting interests. At least that was what her older brother said. After a few seconds, he said as he looked at Amelie... "I just need your ount, I won''t go there personally." "Alright..." Amelie said as she tapped on her smartwatch, texting the details of her ck Market ount to Russell. Russell then read it as soon as he received the message. "ck Market: Thorn of Rose" ount Name: Amelie Rose Merveil ount Password: ******** Thorn of Rose ess Code: essing the Thorny Path Red Rose blooms Pink Rose''s Thorns ck Rose''s Blood White Rose is Death Transparent Rose is Salvation ... After confirming the ount name and password of Amelie''s ck Market named Thorn of Rose ount, he asked Amelie who just munched her seemingly favorite bacon sandwich. "Do you have aptop? Ah... by the way, the money, too." Laptops, PCs, and cellphones still exist in this world despite the existence of smartwatches because of their different usage and convenience. ''I guess I''m still used to using a keyboard than tapping in the air.'' Russell thought inwardly. Amelie took out aptop as if she had expected this because even though the smartwatch had multiple uses, sometimes it was not convenient enough. It just became the best because one could bring it anywhere they go without exerting extra effort except inside the dungeon where the signal was cut off. As he opened theptop and checked his Personal Obelisk ount, he saw the money sent to him by Amelie and Freya. He said earlier that he needed them for the ck Market. ''Oppa is so poor, what is he gonna do?'' Freya trusts her older brother, but she couldn''t help butmpoon him inwardly, especially when ites to money. ... "Wee to Thorn of Rose" ess Code: essing the Thorny Path... ount Name: Amelie... ount Password: ******** After logging in the Thorn of Rose, Russell, Freya, and the familiar Amelie saw the contents of the front page as they read it inwardly starting from the headline. [Trusted, Verified, and instant delivery upon payment! What do our esteemed customers need?] 1. Information 2. Auction 3. Artifacts 4. Treasure Herbs 5. Skillbooks 6. Potions After a minute or two of browsing the page, he finally saw what he was looking for. 33. Stocks Chapter 69 Adjustment Schedule "Stocks" Russell Moon clicked the section representing ''Stocks'' < Please select the category of thepany you want to invest with. > 1. Artifacts 2. Both Armory and Weaponry 3. Weaponry 4. Armory 5. Skillbooks 6. Potions 7. Treasure Herbs 8. ... 9. ... 10. ... Reminder: The Thorn of Rose ck Market has strict privacy rules, thus one''s personal information is hidden and cannot be essed by anyone without permission. Any kind of transaction done within the Thorn of Rose website will be concealed. ... Russell Moon selected the ''Weaponry'' section then he browsed the list of thepany names until he saw what he was looking for. Freya and Amelie Rose looked with curiosity because they didn''t have any idea about how ''Stocks'' work even though they had heard of it from somewhere before, especially in news. "Isn''t that thepany from the news before?" The familiar name made Freya ponder for a moment before she nodded, then she spoke... "Right, Oppa. I don''t know how that works, but I''m sure thatpany will be sessful... Their new weapons will be open to the public this week right?" Russell just nodded at his younger sister''s words before he selected ''buy short'', then entered the amount of 150,000 Obel. The money came from Freya who received allowances three times for being a member of the Disciplinary Committee, as well as from the Virtual War rewards given to them by Professor Murak. Amelie received 30,000 O as a reward for being a crafty leader, then she added another 100,000 O from her Obelisk Personal ount that has a Bank function on it. The money came from her previous business in the Thorn of Rose ck Market... it was the profit from selling ''Dark Tears'' that killed numerous people before she ran away and managed to enroll in the Obelisk Academy. The breakdown of the stock investment that was transferred to Amelie''s Thorn of Rose ount was: Amelie Rose - 130,000 O Freya Moon - 25,000 O Russell Moon - 10,000 O Total investment: 165,000 Obel Russell couldn''t help butmpoon himself, even though he borrowed the money from them. Just as Russell was about to click the ''Yes'' button to close the investment in the Crescent Weaponry Company, he and Freya heard Amelie''s voice from the side. "Wait!" Russell looked at her as he cocked his head, wondering what she was going to say next. Amelie then tapped on her smartwatch a few times, then a notification was heard in theptop where her Thorn of Rose ount was open. Russell clicked the notification and almost lose hisposure when he read the mail. [Your ount has received, 2,500,000 O from the Bank ount: ] [Current Bnce: 2,665,000 O] Freya''s mouth agape slightly when she read that. "Amelie, you''re rich, aren''t you?" She asked while feeling a sense of jealousy, Russell also felt the same. Amelie scratched her head as she said with a poignant tone. "It is from you know... my previous business. Well, it''s more like themission I received." "How about your other expenses? Do you have anything left?" Russell asked with a bit of concern, Freya interjected when she heard her older brother ask. "Wow, Oppa, that''s a nice questioning from you... Hahahaha! She said with a cheeky tone, causing Russell to frown because he recalled how he bought items from yer General Stone before his journey in the parts of Armageddon Mountain. "Yes, I have about 500,000 Obel left." Amelie said casually as her lips curled up. "Alright..." Russell didn''t think about it anymore as he felt his heart would be crushed by theck of money. Their parents just sent them 20,000 Ost week that''s how he got the money for investment. After a few seconds, he changed the amount to invest before he clicked ''Yes''. Thank you for using the Thorn of Rose ck Market! ... Trade Management Center of the Crescent Weaponry Company, 57th floor. "Hey, hey! Look at this! Hahaha!" A man with brown hair and brown eyes said to a woman beside him who was typing on a keyboard. "What??" The woman asked without looking beside her as she continued her office work. "Someone is gambling. Haha! Shorting stocks. It was transferred through Thorn of Rose, too, maybe to avoid embarrassmentter! Haha!" The man typed on a keyboard as he confirmed the transaction with a smile on his face. The woman beside her just listened to the man''s mumbling but didn''t make any remarks. ... "What? What did you say??" Russell who closed theptop and gave it back to Amelie asked his younger sister for confirmation of something as they continued eating their afternoon meal. "I said the ''Ranking Exchange Battle'' will be moved forward." Freya repeated her words as she looked at her older brother with a confused expression while Amelie just listened attentively. Although the Student Council President had warned the Student Council Representatives as well as the Disciplinary Committee Representatives during their first meeting that leaking information regarding future academic events was not prohibited but, disadvantageous to them, thus the Student Council President gave an advice, telling them to think about it first before disclosing information. pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m At this moment, Freya told her older brother and Amery Rose. "These are the details and some changes..." Freya tapped her smartwatch and forwarded a message to her older brother and Amelie as she thought that it was tiring to exin everything. The both of them read silently the details regarding the "Ranking Exchange Battle." "Ranking Exchange Battle "This event will be adjusted, modified, and conducted this week, July 20 to 22, after the Emergence Anniversary. "Here is the information regarding the event: "A-1 students from the first year to the third year will be subject to the ''Challenge of Exchange''. "Challenge of Exchange is a duel offer made by students from A-2 to A-12 against the A-1 students. Here are some details: 1. A student from A-2 to A-12 can only offer a duel to their corresponding year. 2. The entry is limited to 15 entries per day for three days for each year, thus there would be a total of 45 matches per day for three days. 3. Challenge of Exchange Registration will open during the Emergence Anniversary, and will be announced on July 18, a day prior to the Anniversary." "Rules of the ''Challenge of Exchange 1. If the A-1 student loses in the duel made by a student from A-2 to A-12, their student ranks will be swapped, as well as their sses. For example, if student A from A-1 lost to student B from A-12, student A will be transferred to A-12 ss, while student B will be an A-1 student. 2. Privileges of A-1 students who lost will be transferred to the challenger such as the rights to live in the A-1 designated building; Rigel for first-years, Hercules for second-years, and Gaia for third-years. 3. Challenge of Exchange ranking border additional rewards for the challenger: -> Rank 40 to 31 - 50,000 Obel -> Rank 30 to 21 - 75,000 Obel -> Rank 20 to 11 - 100,000 Obel -> Rank 10 to 6 - 150,000 Obel - Skillbook (F- to C+) of the student''s choice. - A Rare Weapon and Armor ording to the student''s choice. -> Rank 5 to 1 - 500,000 Obel - Two skillbooks (B- to A) of the student''s choice. - A Unique Weapon and Armor ording to the student''s choice. - Treasure Herb - Ten High-Grade Potions (3 Health, 3 Mana, 3 Stamina, 1 Strength) 4. If the A-1 student wins against the challenger, the student will receive the following rewards: -> 150,000 Obel -> Two skillbooks of the student''s choice ranked from B to A. -> Unique Weapon and Armor of the student''s choice. These rewards were sponsored by the investors of the Obelisk Academy, as well as the Obelisk Organization, the founders of the Academy. 5. Each match will be held for exactly 15 minutes, amounting to 4 hours per year." Note: Details were subject to change. Sender: Azalea Vermillion, President of the Disciplinary Committee ... Russell who finished reading the details forwarded by his younger sister pricked up his brows. ''This event was moved forward months earlier...'' He couldn''t help but frown as he thought inwardly. After a few seconds, he asked his younger sister in a curious tone. "You said this event was moved forward... when is the event''s original schedule then?" "Uhmm... it''s after the midterms before the Ryokou Club trip. "By the way, Ms. Azalea said that it was just an additional event from the higher-ups because the Ranking Exchange Battle after midterms is still scheduled as nned." ''So that''s how it is... meaning that it will be held thrice this year. This July, then after midterms, and after finals.'' Russell, who heard his younger sister, thought. Based on what he remembered in his ''unpublished novel'', the 40th Emergence Anniversary that will be held this year includes a duel, too, but not to the point ofying something down on the line such as the rank of the student. "Sigh... lower ranks will be picked up for sure by the students from A-2 to A-12. I''m Rank 31, you know. I''m certain that someone will pick me. Haha." As she sighed, Amelie voiced her thoughts. ''These tycoons are surely proud of their children by giving these rewards...'' Russellmpooned inwardly before she looked at his younger sister. "Are you scared?" He didn''t ask Amelie because he knew that she became strong enough to fend off any challengers from this event from other sections. Freya nodded her head before she said... "Oppa, nothing''s happening yet about what you said that I should wait." She was referring to the strange dream she dreamed of previously. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos,'' says that the preparations are nearlyplete, and wait for more two Earth Days.] ''The Goddess is watching...'' Russell thought silently as he read the System message before he said to his younger sister. "Wait at least two more days... You''ll be fine." He said as he reach for a ss of water on the table as he finished eating their meal, he then took a gulp of it. The dejected Freya nodded her head without questioning her older brother, signifying herplete trust in him. "By the way, Oppa, during the Virtual War earlier, we had a teammate that conjured a potion with ''Pure Form''" "Bleghhhh-! Cough! Cough!" Russell spit out the water in his mouth, causing Amelie, and Freya who was eating casually to look at him with an unknown expression before she asked... "Oppa?! Are you okay!? Freya said as she tapped her older brother''s back and caress it. Amelie''s lips curled up at the sight before she chuckled. "Yes, yes, I just recalled something..." ''Don''t tell me the Goddess will ask me again to scout that person!? ''Then what? That person will be stronger than the current me again? Ah, sh*t! I should consume the Fruit of Chaos I received from the Egg of unknown when I made Amelie mypanion under the Goddess'' orders, but I can''t reach the requirement stat yet!'' He remembered that consuming the Fruit of Chaos has a condition that he needed to have at least 400 Stamina stat points, but as of now he currently has 325 after some training with Amelie at the Chaos Training Grounds. ''Every person I am involved with somehow deeply gets eyed by the Goddess and then bes stronger than me, even Amelie is stronger than some, at least not all, of the main characters for now!'' Russell couldn''t help butmpoon himself with the ridiculousness of the situation that greatly diverted from what he knew. [Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos,'' grinned at ''Her'' contractee.] Chapter 70 Ruler Of Death Two dayster, at A-11 Room for first years. "Russell, do you want toe along??" A blonde woman with deep blue eyes, resembling someone that Russell knew deeply asked. It''s been over a month and a half since the start of the sses in the academy and because of some activities especially the yer Physical Education, it seemed like it was pointless to just maintain a social distance and be called a ''weirdo.'' ''Well, those who were calling me that already restrained themselves as if their hearts transformed overnight.'' Russell Moon thought as he recalled the Banquet of Obelisk where Samantha Hall asked him for a dance. Ever since that night, everyone in the ssroom, as well as some students outside who cared so much about status guessed that he had a deep connection with Samantha, thus they thought that saying anything negative to him would result in a bad light to the daughter of the number one ''yer'' in the human domain. He couldn''t help but frown inwardly as he recalled some students who approached him, asking for Samantha. He knew very well what kind of intentions those people have. After a few seconds, he looked up from where he was sitting and saw Mira von Obreyon, the younger sister of Leon von Obreyon then Lyn, and the other two whose names were Aria and Kevin. Russell then replied in a casual tone, in a way that the other party wouldn''t think that he felt forced to do so or feeling bored. "Sure... by the way, let''s go see my younger sister." "Alright! Let''s go." Mira looked behind her where Lyn, Aria, and Kevin were then nodded her head, signaling them toe as theirst subject in the morning just finished and it was time for lunch. ... It was Tuesday, the day before the start of the 40th Emergence Anniversary. Theplete details regarding the event were posted on the Obelisk Academy website early in the morning which served as a wake-up call to the other students who felt sleepy. As Russell walked beside Mira andpany, his expression twitched at the sight of the approaching students. ''The f*ck is this again!?'' He cursed in his mind before she heard her younger sister, Freya, from a distance. "Oppa! Let''s go!" She waved her hand slightly, prompting Russell to nod. After five to six seconds, Russell who walked beside Freya as he left Rumia''s side whispered into his younger sister''s ear. "Freya... what''s this??" Freya who heard her older brother''s low voice typed on her smartwatch as she sent a message to her older brother, afraid that the students who are apanying them right now will hear her voice. Russell almost face-palmed with Freya''s discreet action, but after two seconds he looked at the message that his younger sister sent. "Oppa, I don''t know about the others, but Samantha wanted to eat lunch together with us, but Rumia, Elizabeth, and Jiho asked her if they cane along... Well, it''s embarrassing to reject them especially since we''re just gonna eat, you know. Also, they asked Samantha who agreed... Sorry, Oppa." Freya''sst two words sent a sharp needle to Russell''s heart as he realized her concern based on his reaction when Rumia unexpectedly came with Freya, Amelie, and Amery before. As he read the message, he pondered for five seconds before he replied. "It''s okay. Forget it, okay? Let''s eat lots!" Freya''s lips curled up as she read the text message. ''Sigh... at least Leon and Anya didn''te along, but it''s no use thinking about it now whether theye or not.'' Russell thought in resignation. ... At Obelisk Cafeteria One. A wide cafeteria that could amodate hundreds of students where various delicacies from various major countries can be found. Students who were buying or eating their meals, chattering about the uing event or some mundane things, suddenly stopped what they were doing as groups of students entered the cafeteria. "Woah, Woah. Why are they here?" "I wonder, too! Aren''t they eating their meals in their dorms?" "The Two Princesses!" "Samantha, too, and Han Jiho?" "Oh! The one who surpassed Leon in rankings!" "But who are the other people?" "I remember that one! Isn''t he the one who was asked by Samantha to dance during the banquet??" The moderately loud voice of the student that reverberated to the still atmosphere was heard by others, prompting them to look at the man with average looks that has deep ck hair and deep blue eyes that are like a depiction of a deep ocean. Russell, who felt the gazes of almost everyone wanted to dig himself 6 feet under. Elizabeth, Rumia, and Jiho scrutinized Russell who was looking at the floor, avoiding any unnecessary eye contact with strangers. ''The hell are you looking at? It''s been at least a month since the banquet!'' He couldn''t help butmpoon inwardly. ... After ordering their meals, they sat across from each other at a long table. A-11 students from one side, while A-1 from the other side. They eat their meals before one of them spoke. It was Samantha. "Where''s your otherpanion??" She looked to her left side where Freya sat as she asked casually, but with aloofness. Freya put down the ss of water before she replied, not looking at Samantha, but at her older brother. "Ah? Amelie? She said she got something to do." Samantha didn''t reply anymore as she took a bite of a fried chicken she made herself. Russell who heard his younger sister, and recalled the absence of Amelie for some reason turned his expression into a solemn one as he fell into deep thought. "Excuse me, it may bete, but I''m Han Jiho..." Han Jiho said with a hint of shyness in his tone. ''Yeah right, because of hunger, food came first before introducing themselves. That''s right, try to fit more in society, Mr. Jiho.'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he munched on a Nereian shrimp tempura. "Amery." Although they are ssmates, she only said sinctly her name, giving the others the impression of her coldness because they didn''t have much interaction in the first ce. "I''m Freya, and he is my older brother, Russell from ss A-11, the same year as us." Freya tacitly volunteered to introduce her older brother because of her concern that her older brother wasn''t good at introducing himself. Elizabeth and Rumia who heard Freya''s words took a nce at Russell before their eyesnded on Samantha sitting from Rumia''s left side. Samantha who felt the prying eyes responded to their gazes without saying anything before she retracted it quickly as Elizabeth and Rumia didn''t speak whatever was on their minds. ''I see....it''s a feeling of genuine friendship...'' Elizabeth thought as she instinctively felt the hidden bond between Samantha and the one who''s called Russell. Rumia''s mind became nk but as she also knew Samantha''s home predicament, she was concerned that maybe Samantha will be taken advantage of, but she quickly retracted her unnecessary thoughts because when ites to judgment, even though she was not a Princess like her and Elizabeth, she''s very adept when ites to the ability to judge one''s personality, if not greater than hers or Elizabeth. "By the way, guys, what do you think about the ''Ranking Exchange Event?''" It was Han Jiho who initiate the trend these days, not just within the academy premises, but also in the whole human domain because on this event many guilds from various countries would surely send personnel for potential yers to scout. "Well, the full and final details were posted today... I guess it''s just fair to defend our position, especially the Obelisk Academy which values every student''s future and sees us in a more favorable light." Freya voiced her opinion. "I see... I''m interested in the battle of the students with production sses..." Han Jiho said while some were listening attentively and the others were eating still. ''Yeah, I thought they''d mess it up, but I guess they were justte in organizing the event... Alchemist vs. Alchemist for production of the best potion... and cksmith...'' Russell''s thoughts flowed as he listens to the ongoing interesting conversation. After some exchanges of opinions, every one of them went to their respective ssrooms. ... After the afternoon sses and eating her dinner with her older brother, Amelie, and Amery, without Samantha and the others this time around, Freya went back to her dorm room, she then sat on a long couch, her head resting on it. She pondered for some time as her gaze pierced the window, seeing the bluish moon in the sky that contained an atmosphere of serenity and coldness. ''Oppa said that whatever that dream meant will help me today...'' ''Ah...'' As she thought of that, she suddenly felt sleepy and her eyes closed involuntarily. Following that, a ck aura engulfed her body. ... "Ha-!" Her eyes opened, her surroundingsposed of resplendent stars from afar that were flowing like a massive wave of water, but their flow was one could call the perfect example of perfect harmony that it caused Freya to feel tranquility and not fear considering the bizarreness of the situation. ''Where am I?'' ''Am I dreaming?'' As she thought of that, she realized that it was an absurd question because she could think clearly which means that her situation right now wasn''t a dream. She even pinched her cheeks hardly that caused her mild pain. ''Yeah, this is not a dream.'' After an unknown period of time, she heard a breathing somewhere as she floats in space of an unknown ce. Her bones felt cold with the breathing, prompting her to look in the direction where it came from. Soon, a shade of incorporeal ck figure appeared in front of her. Its aura was swaying as if it was made of wind, it has deep ck eyes, but no hands and feet. Freya, trying topose herself tried to inspect what was in front of her but she failed. ''It means it''s not a monster.'' ording to the System, any kind of monster whether intelligent or not can be inspected without any Status Appraisal Skill. As she recalled the System, she forgot to check if there were any System messages as she arrived here, but surprisingly, she didn''t get any. "Ah, what a wonderful sight! "The sister of the mediator!" "Praise the Night!" "Praise the Ruler of Death!" "Oh! The sister of the -" As ravings entered her ears, Freya felt that her mind would.go crazy any time, but at that moment thest voice was stopped by something before it finished what it wanted to say. Soon, she received a notification and checked the messages. [The Protective Aura of the Ruler of Death has enveloped your very being.] [Death will be resisted upon the Ruler of Death''s materialization.] [The Constetion, ''Ruler of Death'' has materialized.] Soon, the shade ck figure which had no hands and feet growsrger as it now formed a figure, resembling a giant human physique that wears a ck cloak that exudes a ck aura as if it''s a ck hole, It still has no feet, but has four hands. The two hands were holding a scythe that seemed like it could tear apart any world, but its hand righting out from its waist was holding a ne with an Eye, looking at Freya while thest left hand from its waist was holding a dpidated-looking treasure box that also has an Eye on it. Upon seeing this scene, Freya almost fainted. If not for the protection that the Ruler of Death provided, she would have already died, her soul would be nowhere to be seen in the Great Universe. After some time, the towering figure that was at least thirteen meters in height spoke in a deep, dark, and cold tone. "Freya Moon, the younger sister of the Bncer, ept the blessings of death. Your journey will be very interesting from now on." As soon as the Ruler of Death said those words, its head with no eyes that were like a ck hole released a ck aura that quickly enveloped Freya''s body, not giving her time to react. [Your body has been enveloped by the Aura of the Constetion, ''Ruler of Death''!] [Your body will undergo a Metamorphosis!] The ck aura turned into a cocoon as Freya''s consciousness faded. Chapter 71 Freyas Growth ''W-what''s happening?'' ''How long has it been?'' ''I-I''m scared...'' ''But Oppa said it''s alright...'' ''Yes... yes... it''s alright. I trust Oppa...'' Although her consciousness faded, for some reason she maintained her lucidity. Her sight was pure darkness, she heard her beating heart amidst the silence and serenity as it depicts the lonely vacuum of the cosmos where countless resplendent stars seemed like they have a life on their own. After an unknown period of time, Freya Moon heard a sound in her head. It was a very familiar sound because it was from the System that everyone in the Great Universe has. "Ha-!" Her reaction as she opened her eyes was someone who had just a nightmare. She looked around, recognizing the bed beside the couch she was sitting on, the slightly long rectangr ss table in front of the couch, as well as the television and the wall clock, hanging on the wall just above it. She looked outside, seeing the bluish moon that illuminates everything as its moonlight intensified. ''How much time had passed?'' Freya thought as she looked at the wall clock hanging above the wall. ''11:32 PM... I was gone for three to four hours...'' Sighed... She heaved a sigh of relief inwardly as she thought that it might be longer because she didn''t have any idea how fast or slow time was flowing in that pure darkness of space. She reined in her thoughts to check the numerous notificationsing from the System. [You have gained the Title: The One Who Witnessed the Impossible.] [You have gained the Title: One Who Saw the True Embodiment of Death.] [You have returned from the ''River of Pure Darkness''.] [You have received the ''Blessings'' of the Ruler of Death upon the Goddess of Night''s approval.] As she read the first four System messages, she was snapped back to reality because she felt that her body was so light. Then, after five to six seconds, she continued reading the System messages. [You have received the item, ''Ne with a Living Eye''.] [You have received the item, ''Treasure Box with a Living Eye''.] [You have passed the qualification to be Death''s Executioner!] "What qualification did I pass?" Freya muttered, her voice echoing in the quiet dorm room where the moonlight pierced its window. "At the very least, the ability to kill others for someone''s sake." "Is that so... I guess you''re ---" Freya''s voice was cut off as she realized there was a figure sitting on the edge of her bed, while another figure was lying down on it. She almost jumped in fright as if she saw a ghost. "O-oppa?? Amelie??" Her older brother was sitting on the edge of her bed while Amelie was lying down, looking at her with a smile. Freya was just going to ask how they were here when she recalled that her older brother has the ability to traverse in the shadows, while Amelie has a skill called ''Spade Warp'', and has a transformation ability called ''Shade Transformation.'' But for some reason, authorities inside the Obelisk Academy couldn''t detect their presence as if they were the embodiment of ''nothing''. "Congrats..." Russell Moon said sinctly with a genuine tone of joy as his lips curled up. For quite a while prior to the situation right now, he was worried because the Goddess of Night didn''t ask about his younger sister, but Amelie instead. But when he heard about Freya''s repeated dreams of floating in the pure darkness of space and standing in front of different races kneeling, awaiting their executions, Russell realized what was the path that was meant for his younger sister. He felt likeughing, not to mock the ''Death Executioner'' profession, but realizing the setting he made in his unpublished novel regarding it. ''The Goddess of Night asked me to grant her the Chaos Trait by using my Unique Skill, but I''m sure Freya already has one...'' He didn''t know why the Goddess asked him, but considering that it would give Freya an additional overall stat of 150 points, and recalling that making someone a Chaos Companion might make the mysterious ''Egg'' give him something, it was favorable for him. ''Besides, I need the bonus stats I''ll get to increase my Stamina so I can consume that Fruit of Chaos...'' Russell thought as Freya smiled at him before he said... "Go, take care of that first, we''ll make some food." He looked at Amelie who responded with a nod before they went to the kitchen. ... [You have be, ''Death''s Executioner''.] [Your Growth Rate increased by four times.] [Your Profession, ''Magic Swordsman'' will be retained.] [Your Profession, ''Mage'' has been removed.] [As someone who has undergone a Metamorphosis under the cocoon made from Aura of the Ruler of Death, your overall stats increased by 200 except for the Charm and Luck stat.] [You have gained the Trait: Death''s Embrace] [You have gained the Trait: Chaos] [You have acquired the Unique Skill: Death''s Call [You have been given the Authority: Wheel of Death] [Your basic skills have been removed.] [You have been given...] ... Freya had myriads of reactions as she kept reading the System Messages randomly, but most of them were eyes of wonder as if she was thrown into a whole different kind of world. After some time, she checked her ''Detailed'' Status Window. Name: Freya Moon Race: Human TITLE: [Blessed by the System] For some reason, this individual wanted to be stronger, thus the System recognized the individual''s efforts. Rank: SS Effects: Gain the Trait: Blessed One [The One Who Witness the Impossible] You have witnessed the materialization of the one who rules over the dead, an event that is barely seen in the mortal realm. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 20 - Willpower and Tenacity increased by 30 - Chaos Power increased by 100 - Gain the Skill: Death''s Eye [One Who Saw the True Embodiment Of Death] You have seen the Ruler of Death personally whom almost every Constetion feared. Rank: Nigh-Impossible Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 20 - Willpower and Tenacity increased by 30 - Chaos Power increased by 150 - Amplifies the power of Authority: Wheel of Death. [Resident of the Nether Realm] The [Ruler of Death] considers you to be a resident of ''His''. Rank: Forbidden Effects: - All Variable Stat increased by 20 - Chaos Power increased by 100 - Enhanced proficiency of Chaos-rted passive skills by 100% - Amplify the power of Chaos-rted active skills by 100% Health Points (HP): 4,440 Mana Points (MP): 3,330 Stamina Points (SP): 3,430 Chaos Mana (CM): 3,500 Age: 15 (Earth Years) Sex: Female Height: 167 cm Rank: C- Profession: Death''s Executioner (Designation: Human Domain), Magic Swordsman Constetion: Ruler of Death STATS: Strength: 315 Dexterity: 310 Constitution: 343 Agility: 320 (+103) pAn,Da-n0v e1,c Vitality: 333 (+111) Willpower: 272 Tenacity: 272 Charm: 14 Luck: 12 Magic Power: 330 Chaos Power: 350 Unique Skill: Death''s Call (MAX - Amplified) You will gain control over the dead within a specific area. Rank: Unholy Cost: 3,000 Chaos Mana, Life Force Effects: - Summon a random Nether Creature from the Nether Realm to assist the Death Executioner under the authority of the Ruler of Death. - This summon creature will permanently apany the user until it dies. - You are able to summon 7 (+7) Nether Creatures. Skills: Death''s Eye (MAX - Amplified) Rank: Forbidden Cost: None - Allows the user to peek into other''s any type of Status Windows (Simplified, Standard, or Detailed.) - This skill allows the Death Executioner to see the Life Force of the target, activated on the user''s will. Life Force: - Indicator of one''s welfare based on the Life Force''s colors, as well as life itself. Green indicates the healthiness of the body. Blue indicates the amount of Mana in one''s body. Red indicates evil thoughts. White indicates good thoughts. ck indicates death. - This is only applicable against people without Chaos Trait. Mana Sense (Passive) (Lvl. 3) Rank: S+ Cost: None - Sharp your senses to be more sensitive to mana - The higher the level of the skill, the more you be sensitive to mana - Helps the efficiency of other mana-rted skills by 100% Mana Breathing (Passive) (Lvl. 3) Rank: S+ Cost: None - Breathes mana in the atmosphere more efficiently - Mana Regeneration increased by 100% Mana Control (Passive) (Lvl. 3) Rank: S+ Cost: None - Allows the user to control mana in a more efficient way - Skill executions can be performed more efficiently Trait: Blessed One You have been blessed by the System due to your dedication to grow stronger for some reason. Effects: - Gain the skills: Mana Sense, Mana Breathing, and Mana Control. Death''s Embrace Death is everywhere and urs every time in the mortal realm. Effects: - Increased your sensitivity when ites to death. - It helps the Death Executioner to locate the wandering souls of the dead. Chaos Something that resembles everything especially in ''Nothingness''. Effects: - Grants you the ''Chaos Power'' stat. Authority: - Wheel of Death (Amplified) Authority that is given by the Ruler of Death which resides in the Nether Realm that born after the first Light which grants the holder of the Authority the following: 1. Wheel of Death Fortune - When the Death Executioner fights against someone whose stats are higher... The Death Executioner''s overall stats except for Charm and Luck will always be adjusted and be 1 point higher at that moment. Thus, battle experience is a must! Condition: Applicable only with a maximum of four ranks higher. 2. Cog of Life - When the Death Executioner dies, she will be resurrected after 33 days, but at that span of time, the Death Executioner''s soul will be transferred to the Death''s Chamber. 3. Dark Ecstasy - The Death Executioner will gain maximum dark resistance, and when she is attacked by a dark attribute, her overall stats will increase dramatically. [Additional yer''s Stats] Health Regeneration: ... Stamina Regeneration: ... Mana Regeneration: ... Chaos Mana Regeneration: ... Dark Attribute Resistance: 100 (MAX) Light Attribute Resistance: ... yer''s Growth Rate: 1 (+4) times Mana Sense Proficiency: 300% (+300%) Mana Control Proficiency: 300% (+300%) Mana Breathing Proficiency: 300% (+300%) ... Russell and Amelie finished preparing some food after a few minutes. They prepared stor-made buns with Bhaskan chocte cream and Cassiopeian Ice Tea. Russell sat on the right side of his younger sister who seemed in a daze, pondering about something, while Amelie sat on the left side. "How is it??" Russell asked as he used his skill Gaze of the Abyss to check his younger sister''s Status Window. He focused on the traits as he realized something. ''I see... that''s how it is.'' He noticed that despite Freya having received the trait of Chaos, she didn''t have the trait ''Nihility'' that often apanies it. Russell realized the intent behind the Goddess of Night''s order to use the Chaos Buff on his younger sister. "I can''t fathom everything..." Freya, who checked the information seemed at a loss for words. "That''s what I experience, too. Hehe." Amelie said, recalling the experience and change she had when her Constetion, ''Lady of the Shaded Spade,'' made a contract with her. Russell reached for a ss of Cassiopeian Ice Tea, drinking a mouthful of it. "Oppa, I don''t understand the description attached beside my new profession... it says, ''Designation: Human Domain..." Russell choked on his Cassiopeian drinks, preventing the previous situation of spitting a drink out in front of them. Chapter 72 Star Quest "Cough! Cough!" Russell Moon reflexively covered his mouth slightly as he coughed because of his younger sister''s words. Even though he knew what she meant by ''Designation: Human Domain'', he couldn''t help butugh inwardly. It''s one of the absurd settings he wrote in his unpublished novel in his previous life. As it took him at least three years to write his novel that he didn''t manage to publish because of a supercar that ran him over, he knew that ''Death Executioner'' was a profession in the literal sense of the word, but the catch was that it was perfectly aligned with the meaning of the word ''Profession''. Freya and Amelie looked at Russell with unknown expressions. It happened before that he spat out a drink in front of their gazes when Freya asked about the Pure Form description that the Virtual System said when Celine Cello-ana, a ssmate of theirs, conjured potions in its Pure Form during their Virtual War. It only means that Celine ¡ª who was a timid person, and a typical beginner that didn''t want to be judged by her mistakes ¡ª has a Rare profession. Pure Form kind of potions has 200% effectivenesspared to potions that haven''t achieved total purity. It means that whatever ingredients an Alchemist used in making potions, the nutrients or the ingredients function was fully absorbed, not leaving any kind of impurities. "Hey, Freya. Have you read every message from the System?" Russell ¡ª who put down the ss of Cassiopeian Ice Tea ¡ª asked his younger sister as he thought that not everything has been read. Freya ¡ª who ced back the stor-made bun in the te ¡ª scratched her right cheek as she looked away from her older brother''s gaze. "No, I haven''t yet. Heh heh." ''Stop giggling!'' Russell said inwardly as he saw Freya browsing in the air. ''When I thought about it, I seemed like I butchered my novel back then just to write whatever came to my mind sometimes... I made it so that everyone wouldn''t be able to see the holographic screen from the System, making it look like they are staring in the air.'' Russell only hope for ''that event'' to happen quickly so that the System that seemed like a broken te with its function, not being perfect, in his opinion change. But he knew that it wouldn''t happen in a few years, so he abandoned the thought that would make him feel dejected. After a few minutes, he heard Freya''s voice on his right side, asking a question. "Oppa, what''s a Star Quest?" ''I knew you''d ask that...'' He thought inwardly before replying to her younger sister, looking at him with her deep blue eyes. "It''s a long-term quest, but first of all, don''t talk about it when we are with other people because it''s a confidential and very personal assignment given to people by their respective Constetions. Many will question you if they find out about it, especially with your age... like you''re only 15 because Star Quest is only given to a person that is contracted with a Constetion for at least 2 years at most after the forming of the contract. So, it wouldn''t make sense for others for you to have it. It might even be dangerous at some point." Russell said what he thought while Amelie stared at him with curled-up lips, making him feel ufortable for some reason. "Hey, by the way, just don''t read the first line!" He knew that the moment Freya read the words, ''Star Quest'', she didn''t read the contents because her reaction wascking. Freya proceeded to read the contents of her Star Quest, causing her eyes to dte because of too much content written on the holographic screen. ... [You have been assigned a ''Star Quest''!] [Star Quest - Assigned by the Ruler of Death] A series of quests that helps the ''yer'' to ascend into something greater throughout the period of time. Star Quest Contents: 1. Soul cation Description: As a Death Executioner, your jurisdiction is within the whole Human Domain, and as time passes, when the opening of Close Mystery Towers begins intermittently, the influence of the Constetions will be greater than ever. At that time, a Death Executioner must wander the ''Soul Realm'' to cate the wandering souls that are highly susceptible to the ''corruption'' of some Constetions. There is a minimum number of souls that you need to cate and bring eternal rest every single day, only after the first Close Mystery Tower opens. Bringing them to eternal rest will send their souls to the Nether Realm under the Ruler of Death which almost every Constetion doesn''t dare to have a conflict with. Minimum Souls to cate every day: 50 Maximum Souls to cate: 100,000,000 Failure: Lost your ''Position'' as Death''s Executioner. Rewards: After cating and bringing eternal rest to 100 million souls, you will undergo another Metamorphosis that grants you an additional 1500 overall stat except for Charm and Luck stat. ... "W-what?!" Freya blurted out as she read the first Star Quest content, prompting her older brother and Amelie to look at her. Russell didn''t manage to restrain himself as he burst intoughter. Amelie ¡ª who saw Russellughing ¡ª asked what was wrong as her lips curled up, seemingly resistingughing involuntarily because of Russell''sugh that seems to contain contagiousness. "Just read it all first before youin or anything. Hahaha!" Freya frowned slightly at her older brother''s words before sheposed herself to read the next lines of the ''Star Quest'' given to her. ... 2. The Co-Death Workers Description: Your Designation is only in the Human Domain, you cannot cate and bring eternal rest to souls that are not a part of the Human Race, but it does not mean that you are only limited to them. Remember, there are professions that correspond to yours, but have different abilities and authorities as Death''s Executioner has countless different ways how to execute someone. Eliminate the other Death Executioners across the world! Take their Authority over their race, thus your jurisdiction will expand. Failure: If you die in the hands of other Death Executioners, your position and authority will be transferred, as well as the Human Domain jurisdiction, to the one who killed you, but your soul will be imprisoned in the Death''s Chamber for the time being. Beware: Death Executioners are not always diligent, but rather twisted and drunk with power! Rewards: As a Death Executioner, if you obtain 50 other races'' jurisdiction to have the rights to cate and bring their souls to eternal rest, you will be given an additional 500 overall stat points, as well as a weapon and armor of unknown rank. 3. Demon World Extermination Description: The demons are beings that are naturally evil and mostly follow their desires without even the need for Evil Constetions'' corruption or guidance, but due to this reason that they have the best synergy with Evil Constetions when ites to scheming evil acts. Exterminate as many demons as possible, and destroy their territories! Don''t let their soul wander in the Soul Realm for a long period of time as they might be used by Evil Constetions to be an incarnation for the descent, instead vanquish them by ''True Death!'' Demonic Beast Killed: 20,000,000 Demon King Attendants Killed: 10,000 Demon Kings Killed: 50 Demonic Kingdom Destroyed: 50 Failure: Death, Loss of Authority Rewards: Sword of True Necromancy (True Unholy) 4. Martial World Lesson Description: The Martial World is a world where magic has a different meaning. It has something called Martial Arts that every one of its inhabitants learns. Martial Art is a fighting style that uses one''s Ki within their body, simr to Aura in your world. Its ruler for millennia is the Heavenly Demon that caused peace with ''Her'' existence because the other Martial Schools, instead of fighting with each other, made an Alliance to exterminate ''Her'', but they cannot do anything at all. Seek guidance and learn from ''Her''! Learn the Heavenly Demonic Magic Arts. Learn the Heavenly Demonic Martial Warp. Learn the Heavenly Demonic Ki Cultivation. Learn the Heavenly Demonic Mana Cultivation. Failure: Ban from Entering the Martial World. Rewards: Pill of Death (Treasure Herb) 5. Arcane World Description: It''s the world of magic! Magic, magic, magic! You, Death Executioner, must polish your magic to its greatest extent so that your job of cating souls won''t be hindered by external forces because the longer you are in your position, the greater and stronger enemies you will encounter! Find the lost skillbook and artifact of the Constetion, ''Queen of the Arcana World!'', Alises! Failure: Distrust from Queen Alises, and ban entry to the Arcana World! Rewards: Items of equivalent value. 6. [Locked for the time being] Star Note: - Duration toplete all the Star Quest Contents: 13 Earth Years - The duration countdown will start the moment the first Close Mystery Tower opens. - The quest can be done randomly and not in order. - You can form a party to clear the quest, but no rewards will be given to them. - The party formed will be permanently bound until the Star Questpletion, when someone in your party leaves, they will die because of a Soul Contract from the Ruler of Death. ... Freya stared in the air, momentarily at a loss for words as she finished reading the so-called ''Star Quest'' given to her by the Ruler of Death. Many questions entered her mind such as... What is ''something greater'' than a ''yer'' means? What is the Demon World? What is the Martial World? What is the Arcana World? How can Queen Alises, a Constetion lose a skillbook and an artifact? Are there any more worlds out there? Then where...? ... Seeing his younger sister confused, Russell asked with a smile on his face, not because he was all happy, but because of the absurdity of the settings he made in his unpublished novel that came to life, though only a part of it as many things already changed. "Are you done absorbing them?" Freya looked at her older brother, her deep eyes flickered before she asked... "Oppa, do you want to form a party with me?" She wanted to know if her older brother will join her on a long journey because she wasn''t sure if he also has a Star Quest given by his Constetion, Goddess of Night. "Of course!" ''Instead of bringing the Egg just around the world per Goddess'' order, I''d bring it to the other worlds.'' He ¡ª who knew deeply the Close Mystery Towers ¡ª felt d inwardly. Amelie ¡ª who came back after she washed the dishes ¡ª sat on Freya''s bed before joining the conversation. "So... that''s how it is... I wonder when I can get a Star Quest..., but it feels like your Star Quest makes you a worker instead of a yer like you have a part-time job. I wonder if other Star Quests have simrities to yours." Russell chuckled when he heard Amelie''s words. After some time, Freya formed a party with her older brother and Amelie. [You have formed a party under the Soul Contract.] [Party Member, Russell Moon, has been bound by the Soul Contract.] [Party Member, Amelie Rose Merveil, has been bound by the Soul Contract.] [Due to Russell Moon''s nature of Chaos, the Soul Contract is nullified under the Goddess of Night''s watch.] [Due to Amelie Rose Merveil''s nature of Chaos, the Soul Contract is nullified under the Goddess of Spade''s watch.] [The Ruler of Death pays respect and feels grateful to the Goddess of Night!] [The Ruler of Death scoffs at the Goddess of Spade.] [The Goddess of Spade''s lips curled up twistedly.] [The Ruler of Death looked away.] ... The unexpected subsequent System messages sent the trio into a daze. "What was that?" It was Amelie who asked, confused with what she had read just now. As a party, notifications concerning general matters will be sent to everyone instead of personal ones. Also, each holographic screen will be seen by the other unlike staring nkly in the air. "By the way, Freya, My Goddess asked me to grant you a Chaos Buff." "Yes!" Freya said dly, her fist clenched as she raised them halfway. "I want to watch it, I''m curious what it looked like because I was asleepst time..." Amelie said, wanting to watch how something like Body Reconstruction takes ce. Russell just nodded as he proceed to use his Unique Skill: Chaos Buff on his younger sister. ... Wednesday, the Day of the 40th Emergence Anniversary. ''Time for Registration...'' Russell ¡ª who was making a ck coffee ¡ª said inwardly, as there were only 30 minutes left before Freya''s Body Reconstruction finished. He decided to get to an A-1 ss through ''Ranking Exchange Battle'' as he realized it was no use in distancing himself anymore. He felt apologetic regarding his younger sister which felt like a middlewoman that lets him interact with the main characters in his unpublished novel. ''Also, it''s time for that revenge. I''d never forget.'' Chapter 73 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (1) "Today, we marked the 40th year since the Emergence plunged and brought a great change in our world. This brought sorrow as billions of lives were taken away from us. But this also brought us endless opportunities; System, the guide that was granted to everyone from seven years of age and above; Mana, the power that enhanced our bodies to its utmost limit, removing the binds to us which is what we know as ''diseases''; Technological Advancement, where Air Trains powered by Magic Stones were born, and priceless Portal Gates that could transport us in the blink of an eye. There are too many things that changed since the Emergence when the ''Old World'' was destroyed. But as humans, no matter what kind of destructiones our way, we always find our way to stand back up...!" ... ''Where are they?'' Amery Blight ¡ª who was sitting on one of the seats situated across the entire ''Obelisk Grand Stadium'' that has a size of at least 45 to 50 meters in length and 7 to 9 meters in width excluding the seats ¡ª thought in confusion, because it was already 9:30 AM and it''s already been 30 minutes since the Opening Ceremony about the Emergence Anniversary started, but Freya and Amelie Rose weren''t in their seats. Every ss section has a designated area for seats during the ceremony. ''There are too many people.'' Amery''s expression distorted with the sight of the crowd, trying to locate the assigned seats for A-11 students where Russell Moon, Freya''s brother was sitting, but after a few seconds of looking around the crowd, she didn''t find him, too, causing her thoughts to jump randomly elsewhere. "Here you are!" Amelie''s voice was heard by Amery, prompting her to look to her right side, there she saw Amelie and Freya walking towards her. She feltfortable and d for some inexplicable reasons. But a notification sounded in her ears, it was the ''Blood Instinct'' unique skill that she has, causing her to frown and somewhat feel dejected as she read the System message. [This ''Target'' does pose a danger to you!] Her Unique Skill was automatically triggered as she looked at Freya, walking beside Amelie before each of them took their seats. Confusion and questions surged in her mind as she felt that she was being left out about something, then at that moment, Amelie tapped Freya''s shoulder, hinting something. Amery watched it in silence, then her confused state turned to a mix of bizarreness because of another System notification she received. [This ''Target'' does NOT pose a danger to you!] ''What??'' Amery didn''t know, but Amelie Rose reminded Freya at that moment to edit her ''Status Window'' back to normal to avoid suspicions with others'' prying eyes. Although the ''Blood Instinct'' activated only in a close range, she barely questions it when ites to other people, especially if she didn''t know them personally, but with her panions'' triggering her unique skill, she''s starting to believe that there''s something they couldn''t tell her... ''Maybe I should tell them about me...?'' ''What would they think of it if ever...?'' ''But, it''s my family''s will...'' After deliberating for some time, she abandoned the possibility. ... In the middle of the Obelisk Grand Stadium a woman with purple eyes, tinum hair, button nose, and stature befitting of a model was standing, speaking about the history of Emergence, what changed from the past forty years, and so on. Almost everyone turned agape with her bearing especially the men who have that kind of desire, though it was mainly because of her Constetion, ''Witch of Dream'' Authority that lets her exude a charming aura that corrodes one''s psyche. She''s great at suppressing it which means that most people who looked at her with sexual malice are probably attracted by her beauty and body. It was Ayleen Mayfield, the A-1 ss professor in the Mana Theory subject for the first years. As she speaks, she was looking at the first-year A-1 designated seats, specifically, at the woman with auburn hair, brown eyes, and wearing gold-rimmed eyesses that are out of ce in this era where eye diseases are nonexistent. Her thoughts were split, but lucid at the same time. It was Samantha Hall! A few days ago, Professor Murak Hart told Ayleen about what happened in the Virtual War, an activity in yer Physical Education ss. Although Professor Murak only told her about it and the issue wasn''t raised with the higher-ups, it piqued her interest, especially when Professor Murak sent her the saved video file from the Obelisk of Virtual Technology Data Base that he has the qualification to ess, thus copying that particr Virtual War data video, though the Status Window information was already erased as per the Obelisk Privacy Terms. When she watched it, she felt confused and wondrousness at the same time. Confuse with how Samantha Hall solved the problem as if she has no hesitation, especially when reciting the Poem of Remembrance and looking at the moon with its eyes open. Wondrousness because Samantha Hall is the daughter of the Number 1 ''yer'' in the Human Domain, but her father''s Authority was something very differentpared to solving a poem or riddle... Thetter seemed so trivial. ''I wonder if his daughter already has a contracted ''Constetion'' at her young age...'' As Ayleen said that inwardly while speaking with other people in the Obelisk Grand Stadium where many renowned investors, guild Scouters of both known and unknown guilds, as well as mediapanies covering the Opening Ceremony in the entirety of Human Domain, a thought surfaced in her mind. ''I should visit Lunaria sometimeter...'' ... After the Opening Ceremony, the renowned investors of the Obelisk Academy went to their respective businesses; the guild Scouters of known and unknown guilds began engaging with some students whose Status Windowsid bare in their eyes because of Status Appraisal Skill. It''s a must-have skill of guild Scouters to find prospects for guild recruitment, while the media personnel was covering almost everything as if nothing could escape their eyes. As everyone was granted a profession and became a ''yer'', there were general sses that focuses on production, recording, speech, fishing, and so on. It was the bnce of the System that allowed humanity to thrive after the destruction of the ''Old World'' because if everyone was granted a fighting-type profession, causing disharmony, it would undoubtedly elerate the destruction between the humans themselves instead. Various sizes of holographic projections due to advance technology were floating in midair. It contained information regarding Obelisk Academy structures such as the Buildings where students reside, the Obelisk Tracking Field where students exercise their bodies, the Obelisk Public Training Grounds where students fighting skills were honed, and the new-built Obelisk Center Hall where the Banquet of Obelisk took ce in. One of the holographic projections contained information about the finalized details of the ''Ranking Exchange Event''. It''s the one that garnered almost everyone''s attention, especially guild Scouters where they can personally see the skills of participants whether it''s a fighting, support, or production-type of profession, especially the famous A-1 sses from first-year to third year. Fighting and Support-type professions can have a battle with each other, but it has a strict rule with production sses ranking exchange battle. A student with the Alchemist profession from the lower section, A-2 to A-12 cannot challenge a student with the cksmith profession as the two produced different products that have different values and uses, so aparison cannot be made. Russell Moon ¡ª who was walking with small steps beside Freya, Amelie, and Amery ¡ª suddenly stopped his pace, prompting the trio to look at him with wondering expressions. He then looks up, causing the trio to follow his gaze. "Ranking Exchange Event" "Here are the finalized details regarding the Ranking Exchange Event that can change the fate of the students!" Russell quickly skim the information he already knew and checked the ones he was looking for. He also saw the information regarding the battle between the production sses. It will happen separately in aboratory that will be presided over by professional Obelisk staff whose ranks are no joke, but the scene will be broadcasted in the entirety of Obelisk Academy. There were only 10 matches each day, less than in fighting sses which have 15. The winner will be determined ording to the quality of the product made. After quickly skimming other information, he read what he needed to see. "Rules of the ''Challenge of Exchange ¨C Fighting/Support sses" Number 6: Each participant will be given three pieces of Mid-Grade Health Potion and three pieces of Mid-Grade Mana Potion, but HOW a participant can consume it during the battle will depend on that particr participant himself or herself. Number 7: The participant will win if the opposing participant says, ''I surrender'', at the moment such words weren''t said, the referee will take it as a sign of struggle and continue the battle. But if the opposing participant became unconscious for two to three seconds, it will be that participant''s loss. ... ''That''s what I''m talking about!'' Russell said inwardly as he finished reading what he needed to read. "Oppa, are you going to participate in the Ranking Exchange Event?" Freya asked, feeling excited as her deep blue eyes shimmered like a light reflected in the ocean. "Yes, so I''d be your ssmate." Said Russell, though it was only a half-truth, his words were still said wholeheartedly so. ''I''m nning to make transactional connections, if not deep, with the main characters I wrote myself.'' He felt that it was wrong to make Freya a middlewoman between him and Han Jiho, Anya Amasawa, The Two Princesses... ''Leon... No, I don''t care about that, I''d take within Rank 35 to 40, it won''t garner his unnecessary attention.'' As he said that inwardly, Freya''s lips curled up, revealing a precious smile, silently saying that she was proud of her older brother. "By the way, noon is the opening of registration, right? What if others went first?" It was Amelie who asked. Russell pinched his lower lip with his right thumb and index finger before answering her. "It''s alright, let''s grab a bite first." As he said that, he pointed at one of the stalls selling Nereian dumplings of various kinds such as shrimp dumplings, coral fish dumplings, carp dumplings, and other seafood delicacies, the specialty of the country Nereia. He wasn''t worried that others would quickly register because of the following reasons... First, fighting against an A-1 student whether from the first year to the third year was something that needs consideration. Second, losing against an A-1 student will bring the challenger in bad light with the guild Scouters present, affecting the challenger''s future career as a ''yer''. And third, humiliation in public media was something that was mentally taxing which means, if the challenger has no information on the A-1 student he or she wanted to challenge, the probability of losing is extremely high. ... Somewhere in the Underworld Business Location, at Dark Rain Guild headquarters. "Boss, the runaway opened ''her'' Thorn of Rose ount that you''ve given to her. About what ''she'' did and her current location, we have no way of tracking." A man sitting on a high-back chair, having blonde hair, ck eyes, and with slightly fitted body looked at another man, genuflecting in front of him. "Amelie Rose, you mean?" The Boss said, reaching for a cigar on his side, he then breathe it for a second as bluish smokeing out of his mouth... Mana Cigarettes. The genuflecting man nodded at his Boss'' words. "Leave her be for now, but find the possible reasons ''why'' she essed again the Thorn of Rose ount I''ve given her. Also, don''t attempt to track her, you''d die. You know very well the reason for that." The man didn''t answer, but he vaguely understood what his ''Boss'' meant. The confidentiality of Thorn of Rose ck Market was under the authority of a Neutral Constetion. Its contractee or the owner of the ck Market is shrouded in mystery as no one knew his or her identity. Any intrusion or attempt of tracking one''s location will result in the death of unknown causes. That''s why one of the famous unwritten sayings in Thorn of Rose underworld business is... "One Business, Zero Questions." Chapter 74 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (2) "I! "The Queen of Nereia, Rosalin Flora, officially announces the start of the celebration that symbolizes our triumph in the past four decades! "I seek the greatest bestowal! "I pray to my Constetion! "I pray for ''Your'' blessings! "The Deep Waters of the Cosmos! "Walker in the ins of Vacuum! "Embodiment of Other Worlds'' Resources!" [Territorial Announcement! The Constetion, ''The Wanderer of Worlds'' has cast ''Her'' gaze in the Queendom of ''Her'' contractee!] [Constetion, ''The Wanderer of Worlds'' activates ''Her'' skill, ''World of Bestowal!] [The greenest of nature reveal its pure tranquility causing more trees and flowers to sprout!] [The bluest of seas reveal its song and the fishes dance in harmony!] [The grayest of rock mountains reveal its hidden ores!] [Every profession rted to agriculture will have their agricultural-rted skills amplified by 200% for the next 3 Earth Months!] [Every profession rted to production will have their agricultural-rted skills amplified by 200% for the next 3 Earth Months!] ... Rosalin Flora, the mother of Rumia Flora who''s studying at the Obelisk Academy right now, stood in the open and wide balcony of her gigantic castle, spreading both her arms as her country''s inhabitants'' voices contained myriad emotions reverberated across the whole of Nereia. Some Nereian people shout their praises for their beloved queen that diligently took care of them with her ability as much as possible. Some Nereian people cried in joy, remembering how they survived for the past forty years since the Old World was destroyed while looking at their children in their embrace who are now part of the Modern World. Some Nereian people mourned, reminding them of their loved ones that they lost during the massive earthquake that broke the seismic scale, but they felt peace and hopeful as they looked at the hands of their children, holding theirs. At that moment, the World of Bestowal revealed its effects in the entirety of the country. Trees and fruits in the Neri Farnds instantly grow as if dancing with nature itself. Fishes in the West Sea near the ports jumped in the air, forming a spectacle performance. Hidden ores of different kinds within the Rocky Mountains of Nereori started to reveal their luster, causing the miners to spot them quickly. "My Queen, Princess Rumia is calling." A woman in her early thirties, having blonde hair, wearing retro eyesses over her yellowish eyes, and having at least a height of 170 cm spoke with a tone of reverence while bowing her head in front of the queen. Rosalin Flora ¡ª without looking on her back ¡ª spoke with a gentle voice via telepathy. After a few minutes of entertaining and bidding her residents in the Capital of Nereia, Akaneia, numbering millions, a goodbye and letting them celebrate throughout the day, she turned her back from the crowd from where she was standing. ... At Obelisk Academy, Disciplinary Committee Office. Russell ¡ª who was apanied by Freya, Amelie, and Amery ¡ª looked at the woman with short tinum hair and ruby eyes with a button nose. It was a captivating womanly figure that would make most men fall in love at first sight. ''Well, your presence is constantly reminding me that I have a 33-year-old mentality.'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he looked at Azalea Vermillion, sitting on a rectangr sturdy ssy desk before he spoke. "Can I schedule my battle for the fourth day?" There were five days of celebration of the 40th Emergence Anniversary. The First Day is today, when various known or unknown individuals familiarize themselves with the Obelisk Academy, looking for changes, and admiring its grandeur of architecture and magical engineering. This includes, but is not limited to, stalls and tourism. The Second to Fourth Day is all about the ''Ranking Exchange Battle'' for fighting and support-type professions, and production-type professions. The Fifth or thest day of the Emergence celebration is about the exhibition of battle prowess between A-1 students from first years to third years. On this fifth day, an A-1 student can challenge another A-1 student of their choice, given that they are in the same year, and have a fighting or support-type profession. "May I know the reason... Mr. Russell, I believe?" ''You''re only an F rank, yet you''re demanding such a thing?'' She restrained herself from blurting out such words as her lips formed a smile, as well as her eyes while both her arms were on the ssy desk, her hands sped together. ''Reason? Just tell me if the schedule can''t or can change! For sure, you even stalked my Status Window! Bet you won''t expect that it can be edited.'' Russell nearly cursed out at Azalea''s question whilempooning himself inwardly. He cleared his throat before answering and he soon revealed a half-smile. "I''m training for two days. Heh heh." Azalea looked at Russell in disbelief before she nce at hispanions who didn''t have any reaction with somewhat abnormal behavior in her perspective. "Sigh... fill up that Registration Form." She heaved a sigh of resignation, letting the man in front of him with deep ck short hair and deep blue eyes do what he wanted. ''It''s a small thing...'' After a minute or two, Russell finished filling up the Registration Form as she handed it to Azalea. Azalea then read the Registration Form information. "Challenge of Exchange Registration Form" Name: Russell Moon Age: 16 Year ¨C Section: First Year ¨C A-11 Profession Type: Fighting Name of the A-1 Student to Challenge: Bailey rkson Challenge of Exchange Schedule: July 22, 2062 ¨C 12th Match, 5:00 P.M The schedule was filled up by the Disciplinary Committee President, Azalea herself. "By the way, you three... are you going to register, too?" She referred to Freya, Amelie, and Amery who were behind Russell. The trio looked at each other before Amelie said... "No... we are from A-1 ss, in the first year, too." "Hmm... Is that so, by the way, registration to fight your ssmate will be held on thest day in the morning with the reason that on the second to the fourth day, there might be people from other sections to challenge first who you wanted to challenge. Thus, challenging your ssmate was moved to the fifth day. Got that?" The trio nodded, then they looked at Russell before they left the Disciplinary Committee Office. ... Azalea ¡ª who was left with the Secretary of Student Council, Victoria Angelica Rasputin ¡ª heaved a sigh of relief before she asked Victoria, organizing the books in one of the bookshelves. "What do you think, Victoria?" Without looking behind her back, Victoria put the second tost book in her hand in one of the empty slots in the bookshelf that has the title of ''Theory of Emergence Cause''. She then said in a casual tone... "He''s weird, but hispanions are weirder. Is he making a harem or what?" Azaleaughed at the Student Council Secretary''s words who was looking for thest empty space in the bookshelf before cing thest book she was holding with her right hand in its right ce. "Hahaha! One of them is his younger sister, I don''t know about the two, though. But objectively speaking, what are your thoughts?" After putting back thest book, and filling up the bookshelf fully, Victoria turned her body and looked at the President of the Disciplinary Committee with her deep blue eyes as her blonde hair flutter slightly before she said... "One can just dream and try whatever they want without considering it in its entirety." Azalea ¡ª who opened the desk to take something ¡ª chuckled without saying. Then after a few seconds, she said to the Secretary of the Student Council. "By the way, I apologize for that matter. I should have told him not to blurt out such a thing in front of many people, who could have expected that he''ll get excited as if he''s overdosed with adrenaline." "It''s fine. It''s because of that that I felt something''s different with the Student Council President." "Knock-! Knock-!" A knocking sound on the door caused their conversation to pause. "Come in." The door opened after Azalea''s voice sounded, revealing a woman with slightly long blonde hair and light yellow eyes. It was the Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee, Aisha Whispercrest. "Hello, Pres." As Aisha said that, her gazended on Victoria before she said in a yful tone. "Wow, two secretaries, you and I, Oh! what happened to your boss, the mighty Arthur? Hahahaha!" Azalea restrained herself fromughing at Aisha''s words while Victoria frowned at her words, especially at how Aisha said them. ''I didn''t think she''d joke about the Student Council President like that.'' Victoria looked at Azalea, silently asking something. Azalea nodded which also means that Aisha could be trusted. "Well, he''s gone somewhere, and there''s nothing to do in the Student Council Office-..." She took a seat on the right side as she said that, but her voice what cut off by Aisha''s next words. "Why don''t you get straight to the point? And tell me the reason why you''re avoiding him?" Aisha said with an impatient tone, but without a hint of anger, but rather her lips were curled up, finding the situation amusing. She just wanted Victoria to go straight to business. This caused Victoria to clench her left fist slightly before recounting the incident. ... "So, basically the Student Council Vice President, the less mighty John Vernifelon, blurted out that you are being eyed by a Constetion called ''One Who Peeks On Clock Movement''? Instead of processing her whole question, Victoria frowned inwardly as she thought... ''What''s with this woman calling someone mighty or less mighty? Is she right in the head?'' As she thought of that, she saw Azalea felt likeughing, her lips curling up. After a few seconds, she nodded. "You had a conversation with the Vice President of the Student Council about Constetions with Ms. Azalea''s presence at that... Then after some time, the Student Council President arrived, and that John Vernifelon just blurted out whateveres to mind... Hmm..." After pondering for five to six seconds, Aisha intermittently tapped her right cheek with her right index finger before saying... "That''s arguably the most stupid thing I''ve heard in my life." When Azalea heard Aisha''s words, she turned her head, restraining herself fromughing out loud as her right hand was covering her mouth, while Victoria, who heard Aisha''s words quickly stood up from her seat instinctively. "What the f*ck is wrong with you!?" Her patience hit rock bottom because of Aisha''s sarcastic tone as if the situation wasn''t serious enough. This caused Aisha''s lips to curl up, but before she reply anything more offensive, Azalea''s voice resounded in the Disciplinary Committee Office. "Stop... It''s partly my fault for not telling him to shut his mouth, but it''s also your responsibility, Victoria. You can''t just talk about being eyed by a Constetion especially since you''re only in your second year. You may not know this, but I and Aisha somehow knew that the Student Council President is a man of envy. Be careful. "Do you love what you''re doing? If not, just leave the Student Council before it''s toote. To be honest with you, it''s not my problem whether John blurted out in front of Arthur about you having the interest of a Constetion, I just felt somehow guilty because as your senior, I didn''t manage to stop John from talking as if he was free in this world of worries." Victoria fell into contemtion because of Azalea''s gentle, alluring voice before considering her next action. ... Room 393, Russell Moon''s Dorm Room. After finishing his dinner with Freya, and the two woman whose first names almost has the same pronunciation, he went back to his dorm room after the tiring day of pacing back and forth, exploring the entirety of Obelisk Academy. Lying down on his bed where the bluish moon started to illuminate the world, he randomly thought... ''I wonder what it looks like in person...'' He was referring to how other countries celebrate the Emergence Anniversary. Although the Obelisk Organization wasprised of key figures of each country, and some notable individuals, it doesn''t mean that the entire human race will circle around the Obelisk City of country Olympia as every country had its own ways of celebrating, remembering, and mourning the tragedy forty years ago. Chapter 75 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (3) [Fruit of Chaos] A fruit from the mysterious tree in the middle of Nihilheim, the ce of Nothingness. The tree was cultivated by the Goddess of Night for various reasons, but mainly out of boredom. A food of beings with the trait of Chaos. Rank: Ancient ssification: Consumable Effects: - Growth Rate will increase by four times. (Sharable) - Your overall stat excluding Charm and Luck stat will increase by 400. (Sharable) - The Symbol of Night carved in your heart will strengthen your Trait of Nihility. (Exclusive) ... Russell held in his hand a dark blue fruit a size simr to an apple, its dark blue aura was shortly assimting before vanishing in the air. ''I guess this fruit can be cut because it can be shared...'' He thought because of the ''Sharable'' part in stats, as well as the growth rate. ''It''s a pity that I can''t share this with Amery...'' Amery Blight didn''t have the Chaos Trait, thus sharing this fruit will certainly be detrimental and might cause absolute death through mutation or corruption. ''Although my Goddess asked me before to keep an eye on her... ''She'' didn''t say anything after that... Is ''She'' leaving it to my judgment?'''' If he thought about it, there was nothing wrong with Amery, but probably he was the one who only knew a part of her past, superficially so, because of the ''Blood Swordsman'' profession that came out of nowhere when he checked her Status Window before. ''I guess she hesitated first to do just that.'' There were professions that can be passed down via a simple ritual based on the information in his unpublished novel. Although those kinds of professions needed the consent of the predecessors, it''s a way to let the next generation be stronger in this world. ''If I''m not wrong, Amery''s parents must be dead by now even if I don''t ask about it...'' After pondering for a moment, lying on his bed while looking at the bluish moon where the starry night sky was painted everywhere, showing its resplendent stars, Russell recalled the professions that can be inherited. Blood Swordsman, ck Mage, Holy Priestess, Green Farmer, Gray Miner, Blue Fisher. One profession for the meleebat ss; one for the rangebat ss; one for the support ss, and three for the agricultural-rted ss. Alchemists and cksmiths in general cannot be inherited. A ''yer'' must have it as their profession or else, learning how to concoct potions or hammer a weapon in an anvil would be a pipe dream that no matter how someone tried, it will be all beyond crude products that can be destroyed with a slight stirring or application of force respectively. ''Sigh... F*ck it.'' After thinking about some things for some time, he sat on his bed, return the Fruit of Chaos in his Dimensional Inventory, and looked at the wall clock hanging slightly above his dorm''s television. ''It''s early...'' As he thought of that, he texted via smartwatch his younger sister and Amelie; the contents of the message are different. "Are you with Amery right now?" It''s the message he sent to his younger sister while for thetter, he asked Amelie about her location and if she was going to be busy tonight. After a few seconds, both of them replied in a different way but contained a single meaning. "I''m at Amery''s dorm room right now, Oppa. Why?" "Russell, I''m with your sister and Amery... If it''ste night, no, I have nothing to do." It just means that both of them are with Amery, in her dorm room. He didn''t reply after that, rather he organized himself before putting on a white dirty mask with 45 degrees nted X symbol on its forehead. The Mask of Night. ... When did it start? Why do I feel this way? I''m one of the oldest children in the orphanage. Ever since my parents died... or killed rather, my soul broke into pieces that felt beyond repair. Their blood... sttered on my clothes and painted on my tiny hands. Their smile, full of genuineness as they held my hands, spoke... ''Live... my baby...'' before their breath left this f*cked up world. Why didn''t ''he'' kill me? Why did ''he'' kill my parents? What''s the reason? Just because... just because of what...!? She closed her eyes, hugging her mother''s and father''s bodies as her perspective of another side of reality was opened, revealing its disgusting, inhumane side. That man with deep ck hair and purple eyes was only reflected in her eyes through the help of the bluish moonlight as his face was blurred by the dark. With Amery''s soul crushed during that unforgettable night, she couldn''t believe what she was feeling right now in front of her two ssmates from A-1 ss. Feeling of being left behind again... After a weak exhale, Amery, clenching both her fists while looking at the floor, avoiding Freya and Amelie''s gaze who was sitting on the couch, spoke with a poignant tone... "Are both of you hiding something from me??" Freya and Amelie nce at each other, momentarily at a loss for words, even their train of thought seemed to hit an invisible wall. "W-what do you-" Freya was just about to ask what Amery was talking about when the three of them heard a slightly loud voice in Amery''s kitchen. "Yes, they are." Russell Moon ¡ª who came to Amery''s room with the use of Shadow Encroachment enchantment of the Mask of Night ¡ª walked out from the kitchen, holding a stic, square tray with four sses filled with Bhaskan Cocoa drinks. ... At Dormitory Room 04, Rigel Building Rumia Flora ¡ª who was cleaning the dishes, not wanting her servants to do it ¡ª recalled today''s events. ''I miss the festival...'' She thought poignantly as she remembered what her mother, the Queen of the country, Nereia, told her. It was her first time not being able to attend the festival in her hometown because of Obelisk Academy''s rules of NOT leaving the academy premises unless it''s after the midterm and final exams where the window for vacation will be given. Although she''s a princess, special treatment wasn''t allowed when ites to that rule because being in the Obelisk Academy means preparing them of being independent for their future. "Sigh... I should have that kind of Purification skill, maybe I can use it to clean dishes instantly." She muttered, washing the te she used to eat. She recalled Elizabeth''s peculiar Purification skill, it''s different from a yer who has the profession of Priest, rather than being spiritual in nature, Elizabeth''s Purification skill focuses on the physical aspect of nature. After a few minutes, she washed her hands, walked up to her bed, and sat on it before letting out a weak exhale. Looking at the bluish moon hanging up on the night sky for a few seconds, she retracted her gaze before tapping on her smartwatch, sending a message to Elizabeth. "Elizabeth, do you n on fighting Samantha on thest day of the event?" ... In Room 02, Elizabeth''s Dormitory Room Looking at herself in the bedroom mirror, Elizabeth''s light green eyes reflected on it as she pouted whilebing her wet blonde hair as drips of water fell into the floor, she just finished taking a bath with a towel wrapped around her body, shaping her beautiful figure. At that moment, a notification sounded on her smartwatch, prompting her to leave theb on her head to pin some of her blonde hair. She then read the message that came from Rumia before replying with a smile on her face. "How about you try? But, speaking of challenging a ssmate, Leon probably will fight Jiho." After that she sent her reply, Elizabeth''s body emitted a yellowish glow before the droplets of water on the floor vanished as if it didn''t be wet in the first ce. ... Back at Amelie''s Dormitory Room. After an unknown period of time had passed, Russell cleaned up the dishes while Freya and Amelie Rose looked at Amery, lying on her bed, as her body goes under the Body Reconstruction process. Russell decided to tell Amery everything excluding his reincarnation that probably only the Goddess of Night knows about. He''d stopped thinking about it for some time because he loved his new life. He convinced Amery by telling her about her Profession: Blood Swordsman including the process of inheriting it. Those details caused Freya and Amelie to have shocked expressions as their eyes widened in disbelief. Although Amelie sold drugs called Dark Tears in the Thorn of Rose ck Market, she didn''t expect that passing down one''s profession was possible much more the process of how to inherit it. "Drinking 5 ml of one''s kin blood." Amery ¡ª who heard Russell''s words at that moment ¡ª looked at the floor as her fists clenched, reminding her of the tragic deaths of her parents with unknown motives even on this day. Amery knew before long about how to inherit the Blood Swordsman profession. Her mother was the Blood Swordsman, but the difference was that it was given by the System itself, and not inherited, while her father has a rare type of cksmith profession called Wood Smith that specializes in making wooden weapons that can be as hard as metal. "I want to be strong..." She muttered with intense resolve. ... Russell ¡ª who''s washing the dishes ¡ª paused for a moment before he thought of notable things based on his conversation with Amery which includes Freya and Amelie. He just realized the reason why he wasn''t being asked by his younger sister, and Amelie about how he knew such things like the existence of the ck Market and just now, which was the Blood Swordsman ritual of inheritance. Russell was being heavily misunderstood! Freya and Amelie thought that he knew such things because he was getting help from the Goddess of Night. He almost lost hisposure earlier when Amelie said that it was thanks to his Constetion that he knew such things. ''She even looked at me with eyes of certainty.'' Russell heaved a sigh of resignation as he washed the dishes before going back to the couch beside the bed... abination of living and bedroom. ... In Room 38, Rigel Building Sitting on his bed, the man from the A-1 ss from the first year that has a simple build, short ck hair, and brown eyes looked at his multipurpose Personal Obelisk ount where an email from Disciplinary Committee could be seen. At first, Bailey rkson wore a confused expression, thinking that maybe someone did something ridiculous and put the me on him, he first thought of Dexter and Daven, his buddies. After a few seconds, he tapped the email with the title, ''DCO Notice'', then he read the contents of the email. [DCO Notice] Bailey rkson of first year A-1 ss, you have been challenged in the uing event, ''Ranking Exchange Battle''! As a Rank 38 of your ss, you have the responsibility to defend your position against the challenger or else you will lose your privileges as an A-1 student, effective immediately. Here is the information about the student who evoked the ''Challenge of Exchange'', and the schedule of your battle ording to the Disciplinary Committee President. Name: Russell Moon Age: 16 Year ¨C Section: First Year ¨C A-11 Profession Type: Fighting Challenge of Exchange Schedule: July 22, 2062 ¨C 12th Match, 5:00 P.M Please remember the rules of the Ranking Exchange Battle. Click the links below: Ranking of Exchange Details... Rewards of Winning the Challenge of Exchange... Sender: DCO Secretary, Aisha After reading the contents, he pondered for some time before his lips turned into a wicked smile. ... Second Day of Emergence Anniversary Event. Early morning, Amery woke up as the light of dawn started to envelop the sky. She saw Freya and Amelie, talking with each other while munching on some biscuits of various shapes, the low sound of television entered her ears before asking with a hoarse voice like someone who just woke up from a good sleep. "Where''s Russell??" Her words prompted Freya and Amery to look at her, smiles forming on their lips. "He''s in the kitchen." Freya said as she turned off the television which shows morning trivial news. Then, with the television sound gone, the trio heard the sound of a knife cutting into something. After thirty to forty seconds, Russell walked out of the kitchen with a single te in his right hand. "Breakfast is ready." As soon as he ced the te on the table, the trio saw something that they inwardly judged as a fruit, split into four pieces, emitting a thick dark blue aura that vanishes midair. Chapter 76 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (4) "I insist that all of you ept this." Russell thought of it before... that there must be a reason why the ''Fruit of Chaos'' can be split to be shared. He didn''t know what exactly, but his guts are telling him that he needed to share it. For some reason, when Freya and Amery finished their Body Reconstruction through the use of Chaos Buff, he didn''t receive a reward unlike when he throws aint inwardly that the mysterious Egg noticed, thus rewarding him, ''Fruit of Chaos''. The confused looks on Freya, Amelie, and Amery were very evident as each of them look at the other before one of them asked... "What''s that Oppa?" The insides of the Fruit of Chaos that can be seen in front of them were like a deep void, but it contained glistening dots that seemed like rotating stars in the Great Universe. It was a very captivating view that was reflected in everyone''s eyes. Although Russell felt before that he was like a medium of making someone strong in the early stages of the story, he didn''t think that it was out of ce because, in a few months, the opening of the first Close Mystery Tower will open. Tower of Growth. ... After reining in his thoughts, getting ufortable with the trio''s gaze directed at him, he answered casually. "It''s called a Fruit of Chaos... Wait, Freya, can you invite Amery to Star Quest Party?" He didn''t need to bother himself with exining things. After a few minutes of discussing what a Star Quest was to Amery, as well as the Soul Contract. She agreed to join Freya in the very long-term quest. For some reason, the Soul Contract was bound to her and wasn''t nullified, and the Constetions whom Russell didn''t know what was up to right now were silent, but after fifteen to sixteen seconds after Amery joined the Star Quest Party, a notification sounded in everyone''s ears, prompting everyone of them to look at the message sent by the System. [Constetion, ''One Who Eats Fire For Breakfast'', has cast ''His'' gaze in your Star Quest Party.] The four of them were momentarily at a loss for words, but after a few seconds, Russell reined in his thoughts as he remembered the Cosmic Title of the Constetion. It''s the Constetion that unlocked some functions of his weapon given by the Goddess ''Herself'' via the Ancient Treasure Chest when he went into the hidden dungeon, ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil.'' ''Their names are still filled with question marks though.'' "My Goddess should know ''Him''..." Because of the Nihility trait, he''s sure that other Constetions'' gazes would be avoided, and would merely be thought of them as yers not worthy of interest even for a second. After he said that, he shared the information about the Fruit of Chaos through Star Quest Party. "Growth rate..." It was Amery''s soft voice as she muttered. "Oppa, isn''t it like a Treasure Herb that costs a hundred billions of O in the market?" Russell nodded at his younger sister''s words... One''s Growth Rate could be increased by consuming Treasure Herbs that can only be found in Peak Dungeon Towers, consisting of 15 floors, that must be cleared within 8 months. Its difficulty of acquisition is extremely low in terms of picking it up out of nowhere, but with a hundred percent certainty when defeating a Boss Monster whose rank ranges from S+ to SS+, but even this day, no Boss Monster from SSS- to SSS+ has appeared yet, thus the thought of greater rewards than Treasure Herbs cannot be ruled out. "In the Thorn of Rose, Treasure Herbs are about 50 billion..." "You know that doesn''t make it cheaper, right?" Amelie''s lips curled up at Freya''s words because they weren''t rich and even getting a 50 percent discount wasn''t enough unless they chance upon something that could sell with equal value. "By the way, stop babbling and just eat it, we''rete. We gotta watch some fights in the stadium." The trio each took a slice of the Fruit of Chaos before putting them in their mouth, Russell did the same, picking up thest slice of fruit. At that moment, each of their bodies turned incorporeal. Their skins which were capable of a sense of touch turned Illusory where the deep, dark blue cosmos resembled their bodies. Their consciousness was intact, they saw each other''s form as if trillions of stars were rotating in the deepest of their souls. Their eyes depict dark blue stars, and their hearts depicts the gxies, spinning wildly. "It''s beautiful..." Amery muttered, she nce at Russell whose back was facing them. ''It''s like being naked spiritually.'' Russell thought, not daring to look at the trio. After a few minutes of experiencing something they didn''t know what to call, as a Star Quest Party, all of them received the same System messages. [A fourth of the ''Fruit of Chaos'' has sessfully assimted in your body.] [Your ''Growth Rate'' increased by one.] [Your overall stat, excluding the Charm and Luck, increased by 100.] Then subsequent System messages appeared in front of them. On the one hand, the trio''s expression turned into confusion. On the other hand, Russell expected subsequent System messages, though he didn''t know what will be its contents. [The ''Egg???'' is feeling ted!] [The ''Egg???'' is opening one of its eyes.] Suddenly, the ''Egg???'' came out of Russell''s Dimensional Inventory, and floated midair, shocking the trio. Although Freya and Amelie knew about it because Russell told them, they never saw it with their own eyes, but now, it''s floating in midair with its sizeparable to an ostrich egg. Theyer of the egg consists of intricate patterns, but Freya and Amelie recognized one of the Symbols... the 45 degrees nted X representing ''Night'', they saw it in the mask that Russell asionally wears. ... The ''Egg???'' looked at them, one of its eyes opened, turning their mouths agape. Its eye color is deep blue just like Russell''s. [The ''Egg'' is asking its owner to kiss its forehead.] The trio looked at Russell with confusion with the enigmatic request, but he grabbed the Egg and kissed it just above the opened ''Eye'' resembling an Eye of a human girl. [The ''Egg'' felt the affection of its owner.] [The ''Egg'' spreads its blessing to the Star Quest Party Members.] [The Party Member, ''Russell Moon'', Trait of Nihility will be strengthened.] [The Party Member, ''Freya Moon'', will be given three names of evil Death Executioner and their corresponding race.] [The Party Member, ''Amelie Rose Merveil'', will be given the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth).] [The Party Member, ''Amery Blight'', is being asked to drop out of Obelisk Academy and just train in the Chaos Training Grounds.] After that, the mysterious Egg looked at Amery before going back to the Dimensional Inventory. ... The three of them looked at Russell, silently asking what was going on... or specifically, about the request for Amery to drop out of Obelisk Academy. ''What the hell was that?'' He was equally confused that he didn''t bother to look at System messages sent only for him. "To be honest, I''m confused, too." He said what he was feeling, not thinking of anything to avoid being conclusive. He then nces at Amery, looking at the floor. Somehow, she felt his gaze before she looked at him as she spoke... "I think it''s the right choice..." Without waiting for Freya or Amelie to react or say anything, she continued, with her soft voice. "I don''t know what''s the Chaos Training Grounds the mysterious Egg was talking about... but I think the Egg felt my desire to be strong, it then suggested for me to just leave the academy... but my only concern is the orphanage that helped me to be admitted here... I mean the money they spent for me." Russell, Freya, and Amelie nce at each other, but Russell couldn''t give the answer right now because he realized that he might be f*ck*ng up the money he invested in stocks of the Crescent Weaponry Company if the future slightly changes, but he also felt that it won''t fail because those events didn''t have anything to do with him in the slightest. They won''t be able to track down Amelie''s Thorn of Rose ount or they''d be dead of unknown causes. ''Even the employees know that.'' After some time of deliberating, he spoke to Amery, his tone contains a bit of assurance. "Give me two weeks, we might solve that problem." Amery just nodded slightly. "By the way, I''ll leave first, you gals prepare, we''re gonna watch some fighting." "Oppa, can you stop your tone speaking like a drunkard?" "How''d you know it was like a drunkard?" "Well, I''m not the one who sneak up before in a refrigerator to get a Nereian Wine." Russell turned around, feeling ashamed as part of his past was exposed in front of Amery and Amelie. With his 33-year-old mentality, when their financial status became stable thanks to his parents acquiring honorable jobs, he wanted to drink some wine, but was caught by his younger sister, then threatened him that she''ll tell their parents if he drinks that wine. ''Sigh...'' ... "For our seventh match, Rank 211 of the A-3 ss, Ken Raven vs. Rank 40 of the A-1 ss of the first year, Dexter Orbelle!" The announcer standing in the arena ced in the middle of the Obelisk Grand Stadium spoke with an enthusiastic tone, befitting the role of an announcer. The stage where Ayleen Mayfield stood earlier isn''t to be seen because it was reced by the arena as the two tforms switched positions. The stage where Ayleen stood in the opening ceremony yesterday, and the arena in the middle, the ce of the ''Challenge of Exchange'' battle was made of a mineral called M-F-RA, short for Mineral Flexible Rocky Alloy. This mineral imitates a rock and alloy, depending on the intent of the one operating the stage. These minerals were discovered in the early years post-Emergence and were researched by various scientists, especially those who specialized in the Neo-Chemistry field, the subject that''s the evolution of Chemistry of the Old World. ''It''s like some robots, transforming...'' Russell recalled the movie he saw in his past life as he muttered inwardly. "Begin!" After an unknown period of time, the referee, presiding Ken Raven and Dexter Orbelle started their sh. ... A man with a bulky build, short ck hair, and ck eyes stood in one of the corners of the arena, facing on the other end was another man with a simple build, but one could tell this man was training his body to some extent, he has short grayish-hair and ckish eyes. "You''ve got some screw loose in the head for challenging me." Dexter Orbelle, ¡ª one of Bailey rkson''s buddies ¡ª spoke in an arrogant tone, clearly looking down at the challenger while holding a mallet, emitting sparks of electricity. ''A Barbarian ss...'' Ken Raven thought as he recalled the one he fought during the Disciplinary Trial Exam before the Battle Royale, a Berserker ss, but the one in front of him is someone like a Berserker, but moreposed. Without answering Dexter, he rushes in, holding a pair of daggers, but this time, it wasn''t for training purposes because each participant was required to wield their personal weapons. Dexter grinned at his rushing opponent before he smashed the ground using the mallet called, ''Sky Smasher'', a rare weapon gifted by his family. It has an exquisite design depicting lightning strikes. Boom-! Bolts of electricity dance wriggly as if it contains life. Ken ¡ª who was prepared for the attack ¡ª vanishes, using the smoke Dexter''s attack caused. [Activating Skill: Smoke Persona] Suddenly, the smoke that seemed randomly swaying with the wind started shaping into a person. Ken''s body literally became smoke! ... Russell ¡ª who was watching the battle from one of the seats withpany ¡ª had his lips curled up unconsciously because he remembered the man named Ken Raven in the Disciplinary Trial Exam, it was the dedicated man who acknowledged his weakness against Amery in the Battle Royale. "Smoke Assassin..." Russell muttered the Rare ss'' name. But his opponent wasn''t an easy one. Dexter senses the presence behind him, although faintly. [Activating Skill: Rotating Electric Smash] He gripped tightly his mallet, swinging it in full 360 degrees, forming an electric ring spinning around him for a few seconds, stopping Ken from approaching with the thought of getting electrocuted. Then, without waiting for Ken to recover from staggering, Dexter turned around, diagonally swinging his mallet. [Activating Skill: Smoke Blink] Ken''s body ¡ª who turned human again ¡ª turned again into smoke, appearing in front of Dexter who just turned around. He cleaved down one of his daggers, aiming for Dexter''s arm, supporting the handle of Sky Smasher. Thud-! An arm flew out, blood gushes out, and a weapon hit the ground as it left the hand holding it. It was Ken Raven''s arm. Chapter 77 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (5) Drip... Drip... Red blood was gushing out of Ken Raven''s severed right limb. What was attached to it flew a few meters from him due to something he had no idea about. Forcing himself to bear the pain by biting his lower lip intensely as blood drips out of it, he quickly vanished from his spot using the Smoke Blink skill, grabbing his right arm that was cut away by something. Then he quickly took a Mid-Grade Health Potion from his Dimensional Inventory and poured it down on his severed limb as he attached his right arm. After a few seconds, a red aura that came from Health Potion ingredients emanated from the point it was poured,pletely healing the severed limb. Ken Raven used one of the Health Potions that was given to each participant. "Oi... Oi... Are you done?" Ken took a defensive stance, ready for any possible attacks, as he looked at the grinning Dexter, standing a few meters away from him ¡ª his weapon, Sky Smasher on his right shoulder. ... ''I see...'' Russell ¡ª who was watching the battle just now ¡ª realized what happened. ''Is his mallet made from the Lightning mingo?'' Lighting mingo ¡ª a B Rank Boss Monster from a High Dungeon Tower called Blue Avian Lair ¡ª can make its body turn into lightning. Based on his observation, the mallet turned into lightning itself, then flew quickly, not visible to some prying eyes, before cutting Ken''s limb. The Intrinsic Effect of equipment ¡ª weapon or armor ¡ª can be achieved by using the Monster Core of the Boss Monster or any monster as an ingredient. Then, it was up to the person with the Artisan profession what to do based on the client''s request. Russell recalled the Portable Tent he bought from yer General Store that has an Intrinsic Effect of one-sided Transparency that allowed him to view from inside the tent the view outside when he went to Armageddon Mountain to seek the hidden dungeon, ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil.'' ''I believe it was made from Bubble Lizardmen.'' He thought randomly before continuing to watch what was happening in the middle of the arena. ... Ken Raven ¡ª who recovered instantly with the help of a Mid-Grade Health Potion ¡ª finally saw what hit him earlier as he kept dodging the attack. The mallet called ''Sky Smasher'' turned into lightning itself, stretching its body out, and started to wriggle at Dexter''s will. It''s like it became a whip made from lightning, but the difference was it still resembled a mallet, its body just became longer. ''I need to aim for his arms.'' Boom-! Ken thought as the end point of the lightning with a shape of a mallet hit his previous location, smashing the ground as rocks flew everywhere, creating a small crater. ''I don''t know if he''s stupid or what by letting me drink a potion earlier because clearly, he could reach me that moment, but this is my chance.'' [Activating Skill: Smoke Bomb (E)] Soon, five circr bombs appeared in one of his hands as he quickly stored one of his daggers inside the Dimensional Inventory, he jumped a meter or two high and then threw the circr bombs. Boom-! Boom-! Boom-! As he exerted more force into throwing it, the bombs reached the ground in a second and exploded, causing gray smoke to spread everywhere. Only people with high perception or vision-rted skills could see through the thick gray smoke that came from explosions. Without waiting for his opponent that became alert and started to swing his lightning mallet in random directions, Ken activated another skill. [Activating Skill: Smoke Clone (D+)] As Ken activated the skill, two bodies resembling his appeared from the thick smoke. Being a yer with the Smoke Assassin profession, one of its downsides was that some of his skills needed the existence of smoke in the surroundings before it can be activated, but thankfully, Smoke Bomb (E)plements that condition. "Coward!!!" Dexter Orbelle ¡ª who was swinging his mallet in a lightning form haphazardly ¡ª screamed out of his mind as he felt like getting yed for some reason by his opponent who was jumping around in the smoke. As a Barbarian who''s not even at the one-eight of his profession''s true potential, he didn''t know his next course of action as he haphazardly swung his mallet causing booms in every direction. Then, after some time, he jumped from his position as if the weapon he was holding doesn''t have weight, but he failed to still see Ken, or in other words, he failed to discern where''s the real Ken as the three figures were jumping back and forth in different locations, causing him mental fatigue and confusion. [Activating Skill: Lightning Stomp] The real reason why he jumped was that it was the precursor to using one of his Barbarian-rted skills, ''Lightning Stomp.'' Although this skill can be used without jumping in the air ¡ª that he can just stomp one of his feet on the ground ¡ª he jumped to maximize the power and impact, hoping to st away Ken''s body and his two clones away to the thinning smoke. But, at that moment, before his feet reach the ground where blue electrical charges are charging, he heard his opponent speak in a rxed manner. "Stop screaming, won''t you?" sh-! sh-! "Argh-!!!" Ken Raven cut both Dexter''s hands, his lightning mallet reverted back to its solid state. He only managed to take the opportunity tounch an attack because Dexter wouldn''t be able to dodge midair. Even though he didn''t know anything about his opponent''s profession, he took a gamble based on his opponent''s weapon of use... That Dexter doesn''t have a maneuvering skill that could let him dodge while in the air. Bam-! Dexter''s body fell to the ground with his face facing the arena floor. Then, after a few seconds, the scene came into view as the thinning smokepletely dissipated, gathering various reactions from the audience. "What!? Dexter lost?" "What just happened?" "A rank 211 beat the Rank 40!" ''Well, he''s not surrendering or knocked out yet.'' Russell said inwardly, observing the situation. But for him, Ken already won because Dexter didn''t have the means to take out the Health Potion from his Dimensional Inventory. ''He''s not dying anytime, though.'' Because of the Mana that became abundant throughout the world ¡ª the human physique grew into something unimaginable in the past four decades ¡ª that even cutting an arm or two wouldn''t kill a bleeding person for quite a long time, especially with Tanker kind of profession. "Ken Raven wins!" After a few seconds, Dexter couldn''t even stand up with his hands cut off, causing the referee to announce the match winner! Then, the staff in charge of healing not only in the physical aspect brought Dexter out of the arena. "Woah-!!!" "Congrats!" "Ken, don''t forget us!" Some of his ssmates shouted different kinds of praises wearing different expressions, but mostly proud that one of their ssmates manage to beat an A-1 student. He gazes at them, smiling, as he waved his hand. ''Sigh... he''s strong... If he didn''t jump in the air, I don''t know what my next move would be. That gamble wouldn''t work next time.'' Ken was d that he caught his opponent off-guard midair because he was increasingly bing worried at that point in time as his Smoke Clones were vanishing with the thinning air. He also underestimated the lightning mallet multidirectional attacks as he thought he could bypass it, but he was wrong because if he could, he wouldn''t wait for Dexter to jump in the air, catching him off-guard. - Ding-! He was snapped out of his thoughts, gaining back a sense of reality when a sound from his smartwatch that he just wears after the fight entered his ears. As he walked back to the seats where his ssmates are, some of them extended their hands to do a high-five with him, even though he will be leaving the A-3 ss because he won, no hint of jealousy was painted in their faces, but rather proud, happy, resolve, and determination to be stronger instead. [DCO Notice] You have won the ''Challenge of Exchange'' against the Rank 40 of the A-1 ss, Dexter Orbelle. The opponent''s privileges as an A-1 student will be transferred to you effective immediately. These are the following benefits of winning the Challenge of Exchange: 1. You will be swapping sses with your opponent except for Electives. 2. You will be transferred to the Rigel Building Room 40. 2. The Obelisk Academy will give you the right to choose if you want to have a butler and two maidservants of your choice or rmended by the academy or just do everything on your own. 4. A Virtual Capsule of the highest quality will be given to you, as well as your own personal training room. 5. As an A-1 student, you will have a monthly allowance of 10,000 Obel for daily necessities. Take note: These rewards are different from the sponsored rewards by Obelisk''s investors. Sender: Aisha, DCO Secretary. ... Even though he knew already some of the benefits, it exceeded his expectations by a lot of margins, then after a few seconds, he received again another email. [DCO Notice] As per the Obelisk yer Treasury''s notice, 50,000 O has been sent to your Personal Obelisk ount, the additional reward for beating a Rank 40. Congrattions on your winning! Keep striving for the sake of humanity. Sender: Aisha, DCO Secretary. ''That''s a lot of money... but that''s not enough to buy another weapon.'' Ken thought poignantly but he was still grateful for everything he received as he restrained himself from tearing up considering being amoner and making great progress. ... "Are you alright man?" A man with a fitted build, short brown hair, and brown eyes sitting on a stool in the infirmary. In the hospital bed, Dexter Orbelle is lying with one of his forearms covering his eyes, seemingly in deep thought before saying without looking to the man who talked. "Do you think I''m okay huh, Daven?" His tone was something a bullied person wouldn''t expect to hear because it was soft and tired as if the world had left him alone. "Sigh... I don''t know anymore, I lost, that''s it I guess. Good luck man, I want to be alone for now." "Okay man, by the way, do you remember Freya''s brother that sometimes visits our ssroom? That bastard challenged Bailey. Haha, it''s on the fourth day of the event. Alright, I''m leaving, I have a matching up, too. Just watchter or whatever." Daven Belrose said before leaving the infirmary. Bailey wasn''t with them right now. Dexter just listened to what Daven said without answering. ... In Room 06, Rigel Building. Without any interest in watching whatever was happening at the Obelisk Grand Stadium, Leon was using the personal training room provided to A-1 students. "Hup-!" ? He jumped and cleaved down using a training sword before hitting the wooden but sturdy training dummy. Bam-! He recalled the Virtual War that Professor Murak arranged for them, how he lost to Anya... Then after an unknown period of time, he recalled Han Jiho... For some reason and unknown criteria, managed to be Ranked 5 in ss, surpassing him. Although, it''s the Magic Power stat and their Entrance Exam score was the determiner of the ss assigned to them... When ites to rankings, there are unknown criteria. Leon''s fists clenched as he sat down on the floor, thinking about thest day of the event where an A-1 student can challenge another A-1 student of the same year with no concessions, thus, win or lose, their ranks wouldn''t change. ''Time to challenge him this time...'' He let out a exhale as he''s regting his Mana in his body before another thought formed in his mind. ''That bastard wanted to fight Samantha...'' For Leon, ranking is a very important thing and he doesn''t want to fight a double rank higher than him if he can''t manage to win against someone who''s only a rank higher. He wanted to take a staircase, step by step to being the strongest. "That would be interesting to watch." Chapter 78 Different Eyes [Due to making a Chaos Companion, the Egg??? hatch rate increased to...] [By meeting an unknown condition, the Egg??? hatch rate increased to 1%.] [With the blessings of the Egg???, your Nihility Trait has been strengthened.] [You will no longer appear in the World of the Past.] The second day of the 40th Emergence celebration has quicklye to an end like the fleeting memories of old. Russell ¡ª who was sitting on a couch where a meal was ced atop the rectangr ss table ¡ª repeatedly browsed the System messages he received as various questions surfaced in his mind. Even though he granted his younger sister the Chaos Trait through his Unique Skill: Chaos Buff, the hatch rate of the mysterious Egg didn''t even go up by half a percent, but after he granted Amery, the Egg''s hatch rate increased to exactly 1%. That''s considered a great leap! What is the unknown condition that made the hatch rate increase to 1%? By using the Chaos Buff to Amery, thus giving her the Chaos Trait, or was it something else? He recalled what the Goddess said before... To keep an eye on her when he met her during the Disciplinary Trial Exam that his younger sister took. Since then, the Goddess didn''t say anything about Amery anymore... ''As if ''She'' left the judgment to me...'' After pondering for some time, he decided to just let it go, for now, although the Goddess helped him anytime, it doesn''t mean that ''She'' will answer everything. ''Tsk...'' He recalled when he asked the Goddess if the Time Difference in the Chaos Training Grounds can be increased, but he received a response asking him to stop asking stupid questions. After a minute or two, he read thest System message. ''World of the Past, huh...'' As an author of the unpublished novel in his previous life, he knew very well what the World of the Past meant. It is the Illusory world that can be essed and traversed by yers with authorities rted to time, and one of the best examples is Emmanuel Lyncoster that has the Authority of Backward irvoyance thanks to his Constetion [One Who Oversees the Past]. ''It means he won''t be able to see me in the World of the Past... I wonder what it''d looked like... It would appear like a 3D video but with a missing character.'' A self-deprecatingugh escaped from Russell''s lips as he thought of such scenes. He thought that it would be better to have the strengthened Nihility trait, in the long run, to avoid getting suspected or caught of whatever might happen in the future. ''But it would be troublesome if I don''t appear in the World of the Future.'' He was grateful that his strengthened Nihility only makes him disappear from the World of the Past because if he cannot be seen in the World of the Future, that would be extremely troublesome. The difference between the ability to peek into the past and the future is that peeking into the past needed a valid reason to do so, but peeking into the future might cause him to be coteral of such ability... This means that whenever a person with the ability to peek into the future even for seconds saw a particr future without his presence and then contrary to that what that person have visioned, he appeared in that future, shattering the eye that peek through time, twisting the other''s authority... intentionally or not wouldn''t matter. He would then be questioned with more than a hundred percent certainty. ''How''s that woman by the way?'' He thought as he stretched out his right hand, grabbing the favorite bacon sandwich he made before biting a portion of it. Russell was thinking about the woman who''s being eyed by the Constetion [One Who Peeks On Clock Movement] ¡ª Victoria Angelica Rasputin. ''Crossroads...'' Russell muttered inwardly as he remembered the basis for Victoria''sst name. She will have the ability to peek into the future... Many paths of fate at that... But that ability will be abused by the Student Council President even after he graduates. ''I wonder if there are changes that will happen... Well, it doesn''t matter.'' He and Amelie n on getting rid of the Student Council President before he bes more annoying in the future, and he was grateful that Amelie was someone who don''t ask too many questions, only the necessary ones. A kind of trust that''s like a diamond in the vast desert, especially in this world where power matters the most. ... After an unknown period of time, finishing his meal, Russell stood up, walked to the kitchen then he noticed a letter atop another table. There are two tables in every dorm room; One in the kitchen, a circr table; and one in thebination of living and bedroom, a rectangr table. Russell reined in his thoughts as he picked up the letter with girlish calligraphy. It was from Amelie Rose. Then, without putting the te he used on the sink, he opened the letter and read through it. "Russell, sorry for leaving a letter and not consulting you personally because I don''t like appearing in other rooms alone as I feel like I''m intruding. Heh heh. I also don''t want to make any unintentional jump-scare pranks. "By the way, I need your advice because someone from the A-2 ss asked for a Challenge of Exchange against me which is scheduled for tomorrow. "Should I use the skills I gained openly or just fight using my weapon without using any skills? ... ''I don''t know whether tough or cry because it''s also one of my problems right now.'' Although he has the Cull and Cut... another version of Weapon Mastery, and exclusive to him as the Mediator of Chaos, he will appear suspicious if he doesn''t use any active skills. He also doesn''t n on reverting his Status Window to its original state at any moment but instead decided to let it stay in the edited version where his rank is F, and his skills are only the basics with a few exceptions. "Come out." He said as if he was talking in the air, but after a few seconds, Amelie appeared out of nowhere in her Shade Form where her pink hair became deep ck, as well as her red-colored eyes, but as soon as she appeared, she canceled her Unique Skill, reverting into her corporeal form. ... "Heh heh, sorry..." Amelie scratched one of her cheeks while avoiding looking at Russell, feeling embarrassed with the somehow weird action she just did. "It''s alright, I appreciate you respecting my privacy. "By the way, based on your concern, I suggest you buy normal grade skillbooks in the ck Thorn of Rose or maybe use whatever is the Intrinsic Effect of the Staff you usually use or the new staff you receive from the mysterious Egg earlier." Russell replied casually as he put the te where the bacon sandwich was a moment ago in the sink before he and Amelie walked to the couch andfortably sat. "Normal skillbooks should cost about 300,000 at the minimum in the ck Market... "And the staff I received has an eerie Intrinsic Effect, so it''s out of the question... "But about the ck Staff with an Eye on its tip, it''s a normal-grade weapon with no intrinsic effect. I think this will do it, I''ll just edit my Status Window and change my profession to a Battle Mage. ''I''d say one of the effects of the Nihility trait sure is convenient...'' Amelie thought, silently admiring the bizarre trait she receive from Russell. Russell didn''t think much about what Amelie said because he believed in her judgment that wouldn''t be detrimental to them, exposing the uniqueness of their professions, although it''s still sometimes necessary to seek advice from others, especially from the people she trusts. ... After some time, the two of them keep talking about various things, it was mostly Amelie asking questions. And under the witness of the bluish moon in the starry night sky where countless stars, seemingly looking down on every possible direction of the seemingly endless Great Universe, Amelie asked an unexpected question. "Russell, why there are many skills that have the word ''Eye''?" "You know I used one of the skills I received which is the Eye of the Darkest Spade to other students randomly and saw their Status Windows. I avoided peeking at their weaknesses though. "Anyway, notable people like the Student Council President, and Ms. Azalea of the Disciplinary Committee possesses skills rted to ''Eye''. Haha, I''m just curious." ''Ain''t you stalking too much? Should I say to you that I wrote it that way?'' Russellughed self-deprecatingly in his mind as he thought of the ridiculousness but somehow the smart question of Amelie, who has her lips slightly curled up right now. From this world''s point of view, coincidences were something that became sparse, thus giving birth to countless theories about the Origins of the System or the reason why the Emergence happened. "Sigh... To be honest with you, I don''t know either, but I think it''s about the word itself that rtes to vision and where the skill came from just like yours which is the Eye of the Darkest Spade that allows you to peek at one''s Status Window, but depending on where it came from or who gave it to you, various effects will be added." Aside from the fact that he wrote it that way in his unpublished considered-failed novel, finding a different reason for the naming of skills especially the ones with simrities would be difficult and might not even have significance in researching it. ''This is a simple yet f*cking-hard-to-answer type of question.'' For some reason, he started to view Amelie''s intelligence and curious personality in a new light. Amelie pondered for a moment before nodding at Russell''s words before she bid her goodbye, transforming into her Shade Form ¡ª which turned her pink hair and red eyes into deep ck like the Spade itself ¡ª before passing through the wall, vanishing from Russell''s dorm room. ... "Eyes huh..." Russell mumbled, left alone in his dorm room while his gaze was cast outside the window, looking at other dorm room windows from afar where some lights were on, some were dim, and some were off before looking above the starry night sky, seeing the beautiful bluish moon that is the embodiment of serenity. After an unknown period of time, he took a notebook from his Dimensional Inventory and wrote down what he remembered about the kinds of ''Eyes'' he wrote in his unpublished novel that the notable characters possessed, at least inside the Obelisk Academy. Azalea Vermillion ¨C Eye of the Lost Thorn. Victoria Angelica Rasputin ¨C Eye of the Clock''s First Movement Witness. Arthur Wolfson ¨C Eye of the Gray Puppeteer. Ayleen Mayfield ¨C Eye of the Dreamer. Leon von Obreyon ¨C Eye of the ck Cmity. Rumia Flora ¨C Eye of the Cosmos Wanderer. Elizabeth von Etherion ¨C Eye of the Vacuum. Anya Amasawa ¨C Eye of Depravity. Han Jiho ¨C Eye of the Glorious One. Andstly... Russell paused for a second, thinking if he should write the name and the skill rted to the Eye of thest student he remembers at this moment... Samantha Hall ¨C But after a few seconds or so, he retracted his right hand in the notebook, not writing the Eye-rted skill that Samantha possesses or will possess. ''That Constetion will surely detect it.'' Although he doesn''t know where Samantha''s supposed-to-be Constetion is right now, he''s certain that ''She'' is still alive, tricking the prying eyes of everyone even the Gods and Demons aside from the Goddess of Night or even maybe ''Her'' subordinates. ''But the Goddess doesn''t care though. Each of them has their own business.'' After heaving a sigh of resignation, changing his mind at this very moment, he wrote thest words in the notebook he brought out. "Eye of the Self." The moment he finished writing the Eye-rted skill that will be acquired by Samantha, a sound of notification entered his ears, then he gaze at the System message, reading its contents. [An unknown existence is reacting to what you wrote.] [Your Nihility Trait has blocked the possible intrusion of the unknown existence.] ''I see... ''She'' is weakened for some reason because if She is not, my Nihility trait won''t be able to block ''Her''.'' Russell knew very well the power of the Constetion that will make a contract with Samantha... at least in the original story of his unpublished novel. ... Room 01, Rigel Building. "Something happened..." Samantha ¨C who was lying on her bed, hugging a pinkish pillow ¨C felt something in her chest as she mumbled, her soft voice reverberating in her room. Chapter 79 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (6) "Are you free right now?" Samantha ¨C who had Russell''s contact number ¨C texted him, seemingly feeling the need for apany for unknown reasons. It''s notte at night as the bluish moon''s moonlight that seemed to encapste the world hasn''t intensified yet. "Yes, what''s the matter?" Samantha read Russell''s reply with an expression of longing for someone to talk to, she didn''t know why she was feeling this way at this very moment. "Nothing, want to hang out?" Although Samantha knew that getting out at this time of the night and with a man at that would garner unnecessary attention. She didn''t say it to Russell not because she wasn''t feeling concerned, but rather because she thought that he knows it himself. "Sure, where though?" She was momentarily at a loss for words because she didn''t think of the location, but after pondering for some time, she then replied what she thought. "Exclusive Public Training Grounds." ... Room 393, Andromeda Building pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m Russell ¡ª who had just collected his thoughts after writing in a in notebook what he remembered at this moment about the Eye-rted skills and their possessors ¡ª wore a nk look on his face as he read the reply of Samantha. Heaving a sigh, he replied after a few seconds. "Alright. I''ll be there, wait for me." As a student not from an A-1 ss, he won''t be able to get inside the Rigel Building normally without thepany of another A-1 student. ... Ten minutester, at the front of the Rigel Building entrance. "Good evening." Russell just nodded as he smiled in response to Samantha''s words under the gaze of two A+ rank guards standing side by side by the entrance of the Rigel Building doing their job perfectly because they didn''t even question the daughter of the number 1 yer. ''They are too diligent.'' Although it wasn''t the first time that Russell went into the Rigel Building, he was still amazed by the intricate, luxurious design of the building''s interior. There are chandeliers symmetrically hanging from one ce to another, emitting white light not from electricity but rather from magic stones that were mined skillfully. There are still people walking around, but they aren''t students as some of them wore formal suits and maid wear. ''To think that there are only 40 students in this building.'' Russellughed self-deprecatingly as he thought that he gave so many privileges to A-1 students when writing his unpublished novel, but he retracted what surfaced in his mind because he felt that he might not think about such things if he also has those kinds of privileges. It was human nature evident not just in this world, but in his previous life. There are five floors in the Rigel Building and each floor has different functions. The first floor consists of lodgings for the butler and maids. The second floor consists of a luxurious, very spacious kitchen where students can choose whether to cook by themselves in front of others or just let the chefs do the job. The third floor consists of dormitory rooms ranging from Room 20 to 40, as well as the Exclusive Public Training Grounds where interactions from A-1 students mostly happen, while the fourth floor consists of rooms from Room 11 to 19, and the fifth orst floor ¨C Room 1 to 10. "What are you doing?" Russell asked Samantha, clearly confused by her action because she clicked the button for the fifth floor where her dorm room was located, but he soon realized that he asked the wrong question as he saw Samantha''s lips curled up, forming a cheeky smile. ''F*ck! I made a mistake!'' Looking at him, maintaining her smile, Samantha asked casually. "How do you know that the Exclusive Public Training Grounds isn''t on the fifth floor...?" "Haha, what do you mean?" Russell ¡ª whose mind was racing to find a valid reason ¡ª tried topose himself as he casuallyughed, asking her with a confused expression. "Nothing... It''s just something that tells me you''re not a normal person heh heh." Samantha giggled as her eyes felt like also smiling matching her slightly curled-up lips. ... After taking a quick elevator, they both arrived on the fifth floor, and as they walked through the floor''s corridor, they saw a redhead figure just opening up the door of her dorm room. ''Anya!'' Anya looked at them with her expression unknown, but something tells Russell that unknown expression was a prelude to something scandalous. Samantha smiled at her and Anya just nodded her head in response before going inside her dorm room. "We''re here." ... Simr to other dorm rooms of other buildings, Samantha''s dorm also contained the living and bedroombination where a single bed was beside a study desk that was also beside afortable, long couch where a rectangr ss table was ced in front of, and there''s also the television where a wall clock was situated atop it, hanging on the wall. It was very simr to other dorms at first nce until one looks at the lofty bookshelf with numerous books; the potion cer, where potions are stored instead of wine; and then two other door entrances built into the wall in the kitchen. It was the door to her Personal Training Grounds and the door where a personal Virtual Capsule was. "I thought we were going to the Exclusive Public Training Grounds?" Russell asked, scratching his head. ''This woman got me.'' Hempooned inwardly because he felt that Samantha tricked her. Although he has the mentality of 33 years old, it wasn''t the case for the other people like Anya who saw him with Samantha. "I changed my mind, but can you tell me why your initial reaction when I pressed the button for the fifth floor was like that... as if you know that the Exclusive Public Training Grounds isn''t on this floor in the first ce. As far as I know, your younger sister hasn''te up here on this floor yet because there''s no reason for her to do so. It means she hasn''t told you anything about this floor." ''Why are you insisting on that!?'' But then, a sudden realization illuminate Russell''s mind! "My younger sister told me that the Exclusive Public Training Grounds is on the third floor where she''s at." ''Yes, this is my out!'' Russell thought as if he finally escaped the simple dilemma, but soon his hopes were crushed like a sandcastle ravaged by flowing water. "Liar. I asked your younger sister if she told you anything about what''s in this building... She said yes, including the Exclusive Public Training Grounds, but that''s all there was to it. She didn''t exactly tell you on what floor where it is located." ''Hey. Ms. Samantha, can you stop nagging me? This is harder than training in the Chaos Training Grounds.'' Russell heaved a sigh of resignation, he didn''t answer Samantha anymore as they arrived inside her spacious Personal Training Grounds. ... The next day, early morning. In Elizabeth''s room. Brushing her teeth because she just wanted to instead of using her Purification skill to clean herself, she looked in the mirror where her light green eyes and blonde hair could be seen. A smile cannot leave her lips as bubbles from brushing her teeth were leaking out. ''That woman brought a man into her room, during the night at that. Hahaha!'' She thought,ughing inwardly as she read what Anya said in their group chat as soon as she woke up. Although they weren''t much close before the academy days as business always came first, they were starting to learn to act casual and normal, not befitting their status as a princess or daughter of a ranker yer. They made a women''s group chat only where they talked about anything ridiculous or anything of concern. ''This must be what mother said... Enjoy your high school days. Hahaha!'' ... If not for the fact that Russell knew Samantha deeply because of what he wrote in his unpublished novel, he might have thought that she was an Artificial Intelligence or a living robot at that because of the messed up information in her Status Window. For some time now, he was observing changes in the Status Windows of the main characters he wrote about. Leon, Anya, Elizabeth, and Rumia became stronger originally while Han Jiho remained the same, but there were no other notable changes aside from that, unlike Samantha''s Status Window that contained, aside from [Locked], [Error] information. "Forget it. There''s nothing I can do for now." He muttered softly,bing his deep ck hair while looking at his reflection in the circr mirror where his deep blue eyes were also reflected. ... A few hourster, inside the Obelisk Grand Stadium. "This is the tenth match for today! Here I call... "Our defender, Rank 31, Amelie Rose Merveil!" Soon, a gorgeous pink-haired, red-eyed woman entered the arena on one end, and the other end... "Our challenger, Rank 41, Liana Asteria." A woman with beautiful features, with blue hair and snowy-colored eyes, as if there''s a raging blizzard in her pupil, walked in, holding a staff with a snowkes design. "Go, Liana!" "You can do it!" "Go go! Bring glory to our ss!" "Amelie! Please win!" Before the referee announce the beginning of the Challenge of Exchange, any kind of cheering reverberated throughout the Obelisk Grand Stadium, but there were people who were silent, observing the participants in the front... or rather checking their Status Windows. ... "An E Rank Battle Mage against an E+ Rank with a dual profession ¡ª Ice Mage, Ice Enhancer." A Guild Scouter from a known guild called Starlight Guild mumbled as he used a Status Appraisal Skill. "Crowd Control type of profession is a bane for a Battle Mage. This battle is certain from the start... What do you think, Alex?" The man named Alex looked at the woman beside him, it was his co-worker that was assigned to recruiting. As a Guild Scouter, Alex was technically living the title Scouter itself because he was bad atmunicating like doing interviews or recruiting, that''s why the Guild also sent another person who was good at that particr job. "I don''t know... Let''s just see if you''re right, Riya." As the Guild Scouter who told Riya about the basic information of the participants in the stage, he was aligned with Riya''s judgment. "Hello, do you want to take a bet?" At that moment, a voice from behind sounded in their ears, prompting them to look in the direction of where it came from. There they saw an average-looking man with deep ck hair and deep blue eyes. "Oppa! What are you doing!?" A very attractive woman sitting beside the man who also has slightly long deep ck hair that was a ponytail and deep blue eyes resembling the deepness of an ocean and the loftiness of the cloudless sky spoke, seemingly irritated and confuse about the man''s action beside her. ''Are they siblings?'' Alex used his Status Appraisal Skill and saw that the average-looking man was only an F rank while the attractive woman was an E rank. "Hahaha, hey kid, you better focus on your study first before you start gambling." Riya said, not taking seriously what the man just said, but then the man took out a stack of cash amounting to 50,000 Obel. It was a very low sum of money if a person was a member of a guild because being a guild worker ¡ª adventurer, production, or staff in position ¡ª would profit a person hundreds or millions of Obel. Riya scoffed at the man''s action before saying seriously as she frowned. "Hey, I don''t know where you get that money. But you should save it." Riya asked using telepathicmunication. Alex replied, wearing a confused look at Riya''s question. "I guess you ain''t no good at judging character." The man''s words at this moment caused Riya''s eyebrows to narrow as a line of veins budged on her forehead. "You brat... Deal!" ... Russell ¡ª who told his younger sister that it was alright via telepathy through the Chaos Companion connection ¡ª muttered inwardly as he heard the woman''s voice who agreed to small gambling. ''Easy money.'' Chapter 80 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (7) "Begin!" The fight between Amelie, Rank 31 of her ss, and Liana, Rank 41 of her ss begins at the signal of the referee. Liana Astrea has a dual profession ¡ª Ice Mage and Ice Enhancer ¡ª which perfectlyplements each other because the skills of the Ice Mage which specializes in Ice Attribute attacks can be further strengthened through the skills of the Ice Enhancer. Ice Enhancer is a pure support-type profession ¡ª theplete opposite of Ice Mage ¡ª and its most remarkable skill is the ability to grant Ice Attribute to other people''s weapons or skills, a bane for Dungeon Towers that has a fire environment which can only mean fire-type monsters inhabitants. [Activating Skill: Ice Shield] As Liana activated the skill, a bluish and whitish barrier resembling ice and snow enveloped her body. [Activating Skill: Ice Mist] And with the activation of the Ice Mist skill, a fog of snow seemed to appear from nothing as it became like a cloud started following Liana''s body, ovepping the Ice Shield, forming another line of defense after line of defense. It was the same skill that Rika, from Rumia''s group in the Virtual War, Professor Murak''s activity, had used. [Activating Skill: Ice Enhance] [Your skills has already in the realm of Ice Attribute] [Your skills have not been granted Ice Attribute, but instead have been strengthened.] The Ice Shield became thicker, and the Ice Mist seemed to proliferate that cannot be seen by the naked eye as the fog almost cover the entire arena which causes another myriad of reactions from the spectators. ... [Activating Skill: Eye of Night] [You have peeked into the Hidden Nature of the ''Target''] [The target''s Hidden Nature: Emotionally Tired, Wanted to be Free.] ''What a poor soul.'' Russell ¡ª who just made a small gamble against Riya, one of the recruiters from the Starlight Guild ¡ª used his Eye-rted skill that peeks into the nature of a person, and in this case, he used it to Amelie''s opponent in the arena. Although the visibility of the arena became less and less with the Ice Mist skill that even everyone basically has an eagle-like vision as eye diseases or deterioration doesn''t exist anymore, and some of them couldn''t still see through the fog of snow. Seeing the intense support that Amelie''s opponent was garnering, Russell vaguely guess about her predicament as such situations often happen in novels with young masters and whatnots. ''She''s tired of people expecting something from her... And she must be the highest rank in her ss.'' Students with Rank 41 to 480 were randomly thrown into different sses which means that even a Rank 42 wouldn''t necessarily be in the A-2 ss but rather in A-12. After pondering a little, Russell wanted to do a favor for Liana as he began tomunicate with Amelie who is standing in the arena. ... Amelie was first confused by Russell''s words that rang in her head. Although she did intend to win and protect her position to stay in the A-1 ss in the first ce, Russell''s words were out of ce and seemed like an unnecessary reminder. The curious Amelie asked, dodging a long-range Ice st at the same time that Liana fired. With Russell''s casual words, she vaguely understand Liana''s predicament as she asked another question before considering her next course of action. He answered with certainty as if he tested it countless times already. ... [Activating Skill: Shade Transformation] [Your Nihility trait haspletely concealed your surroundings.] Amelie''s pink hair and red eyes turned deep ck. Her now deep ck hair started to flutter while her deep ck eyes seemed to resemble the deepness of a ck hole. A ck aura started emanating from her body, but with the help of Ice Mist which greatly reduced the spectators'' visibility, as well as the concealment of the Nihility trait, she basically cannot be detected. ''I''m just following orders... No, I decided it for myself.'' Amelie was someone who was used to following orders, but when she began to be Russell''spanion, she felt an exaggerated dness because she could voice her opinions unlike when she was serving a certain person in the Thorn of Rose, Dark Tears drug business. ... "Hey." A solemn voice entered Liana''s ears causing chills to suddenly ran down her spine. Without looking behind from where the voice came from, although this was only a Ranking of Exchange, she felt as though there was an illusory scythe hanging below her neck, ready to cull her head at any given moment. Various questions surfaced in her mind such as: how did she get behind her almost instantly and what''s with tremendous pressure she was exuding as if she wasn''t human... But her opponent''s next words within that few seconds that felt like an eternity caused her heart to beat faster, not because of fear, but as if her soul was breaking into pieces like fragments of broken ss. "You want to lose, right?" Amelie ¡ª who was standing behind Liana, pointing her ck Staff at her neck ¡ª asked, but her tone wasn''t of pity, but rather slight admiration. Liana didn''t answer her opponent''s question which was a sign of giving up, cueing Amelie to do what was necessary at this moment. ... A woman who wanted to be free from other people''s expectations. The kind of reality that one could guess based on the bearing that the person in question shows in public and if the observer was used to experiential learning. "What an admirable woman." Bam-! Amelie said solemnly as she smashed the ck Staff to Liana''s shoulder, causing her body to be smacked to the ground with her face on the floor. "Argh-!" Liana''s groan entered Amelie''s sense of hearing, she then proceeds to kick her side, and smash her ck Staff repeatedly until the Ice Mist and Ice Shield that surrounds Liana gradually dissipated, revealing the view of what was supposed to be a foggy arena. "W-what happened?" "L-Liana''s down..." "Ha... Haha! I thought she was strong." "Yeah, I thought so, too! I guess it''s no use to s*ck up to her. Bah. Hahaha!" "She''s just rich, did her parents buy her Rank here or something? Haha!" Amelie nced for two seconds at the seats designated for A-2 students and saw some of them ¡ª both men and women ¡ª who cheered her in the beginning now had a looked of contempt towards Liana. "Liana, right? You''re now free from fake people. Be careful who you befriend. Live your life the way you want, F*ck everybody else." Amelie seriously said, looking down at Liana''s body slumping on the arena grounds, Amelie then saw Liana''s lips curled up. "Sleep well, dear." Amelie deals the final blow, knocking her opponent out. ... "Amelie wins!" After a few seconds of confirming the situation, the referee announced the winner of the match with various reactions; cheering and contempt, as well as the desire to recruit or befriend Amelie blooms in everyone''s hearts. "Thank you for the money." Russell casually said after he received the 50,000 Obel without looking back at Riya from the Starlight Guild whose expression was certainly painted with confusion about what just happened, her chatty demeanor gone as though it was swept by the wind. "Let''s go. She''s waiting." He looked at his younger sister whose lips slightly curled up which also meant ''Treat meter, Oppa''. ... "Hey, Alex. Can you tell me what just happened?" ''Here she is again.'' Alex ¡ª the Guild Scouter assigned for appraising students'' Status Windows for potential recruits ¡ª thought about Riya''s usual behavior as he pondered for a moment before giving her an answer. "You lose, that''s all. Nothing more." "Oi! Stop joking around! You said her opponent was a Battle Mage that specializes in closebat, and she is an Ice Mage, and also an Ice Enhancer at that. How the f*ck did she lose huh? You know my eyes didn''t even see a thing! Do you know what the hell it implies!?" ''Stop nagging me, f*cking...!'' But on second thought, Riya was right that whatever just happened didn''t make any sense because Riya has an Eye-rted skill called Thermal Eye which allows her to check the body signatures of a person when activated. It was like an infrared vision that could pierce even a foggy environment that''s why she was considered a great asset in the Starlight Guild when ites to raiding a Dungeon Tower which nature is lowering one''s visibility. "I don''t know okay? But what do you mean you didn''t see a thing? Those participants are at E ranks, and you''re an A+ rank. Are you saying those students have a skill that can block your vision? Check your head, you must be bing crazy for losing that 50,000 on a kid." Alex wasn''t talkative when ites to other people, but when it was with a guild co-worker, with whom he had been working for a long time, he then can voice his opinions. Riya pondered a little at hearing Alex''s words before answering in a dazed, her right thumb and index finger massaging her chin while her eyes darting around, trying to find the student who just won the Ranking of Exchange. "Nothing... I saw nothing..." ... "Let''s grab lunch, my treat. Anyway, congrats Amelie, you know there are rewards when you managed to win, defend your Rank, and remain in the A-1 ss." Russell said casually, not too happy but definitely not feeling down about what happened in Amelie''s fight just now with concern for Liana''s situation. "Oppa, you know I feel like we''re in a dream, before Mom and Dad struggled so hard to make money just to make ends meet, but now you just gambled and won a fine sum. Whatever." Freya sighed, seemingly lost in thoughts after she said what she felt about the whole ridiculous financial situation. "Russell, was it alright?" Amelie asked somewhat feeling gloomy as she walked beside Freya while looking down on the cafeteria floor where they arrived just now. "It''s fine, she will probablye back with her own two feet." Russell said seriously as if an old man was speaking, but Amelie''s next words made him feel embarrassed. "No, no, not that, I''m talking if the way I beat her up was alright or was stillcking." Russell''s mouth was slightly agape, momentarily at a loss for words as he looked at Amelie who was scratching her head. ''Don''t you feel sympathy!?'' He almost blurted out but restrained himself to do so because based on Amelie''s performance and the look on her face before she beat up Liana, he knew that she was admiring Liana''s resolve to change... just like herself just a few weeks ago who turned over a new leaf. "The usual please, two servings." Russell didn''t respond to the ludicrous words that came out of Amelie''s mouth instead he proceed to order the meals he and his younger sister usually eats. This action caused Amelie to feel more embarrassed as if she wanted to bury herself six feet under. After a quick grab of their meals, they proceeded to watch the next match of the Ranking of Exchange, but this time, he was only with Freya because Amelie went somewhere else for some reason. ... Room 02, Gaia Building A man with blonde hair and deep blue eyes was sitting on a high-back chair with admirable, intricate designs. Standing beside him were two people; on his left was a woman whose hair and eyes were dyed crimson, and on his right was a man with short blonde hair and reddish eyes. In the front of the three, a woman genuflecting, not daring to look at what''s in front of her. After an unknown period of time, the man sitting on a high-back chair, Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President spoke arrogantly with a grin on his face as if he caught a big fish. "Wee to the Weaver Faction, Amelie Rose Merveil." Chapter 81 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (8) "Amelie Rose, an abandoned girl, lived in some sewers where beggars are flocking for a few years... You made the right choice in choosing to join our faction as you''ve proved your worth based on our observation of your skills. "And if I don''t remember incorrectly, you said that you have an idea about what happened to one of my candidates in joining our group? Please do tell, Amelie, you see... I don''t like some random people ruining my toys. Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President said, a distorted smile formed on his face and his eyes seemed to be a half-moon shape while both his hands were sped together. Without a moment of hesitation, Amelie spoke respectfully. "Sir, I discovered that it was the brother of the one who fought the missing Kevin." Arthur ¡ª who listened to the pink-haired genuflecting woman ¡ª pressed his temples with his right index and right thumb, pondering over her words. "And how exactly did you manage to discover that it was him? How can you be certain?" Before Amelie was epted into the Weaver Faction, she was given a task to prove herself with preliminary information about the focus of the investigation... It was to find any clues or the culprit himself regarding the disappearance of Kevin Springer. With conviction, Amelie spoke without looking in front of her. "To be honest with you Sir, I''m not exactly certain, but I suspected that it might be someone who has a close rtionship with Kevin''s opponent that day in the Mock Battle which is the brother himself. And I remembered in the banquet, he has an inexplicable connection with the daughter of the number 1 yer..." At that moment, the man with short blonde hair and reddish eyes standing on the right side reacted mildly as the man clenched both his fist, and the only one who noticed it was the woman whose hair and eyes were dyed crimson. "Also with Kevin Springer''s scandal in the Obelisk Tracking Field where he couldn''t move his limbs, as well as opened his mouth to speak. I deduced that it was because of a fighter-type skill rted to acupuncture points... And sorry in advance, I cannot reveal the information of this person, but I asked someone to take a look at the Status Window of the person I suspected to be the culprit, and found that he possessed a unique acupuncture skill. That''s why I concluded that he''s the suspect in Kevin''s disappearance. I have no idea how he did it, but ording to Freya, the name of my ssmate that Kevin Springer fought, her brother will participate in the Ranking of Exchange on its final day." Arthur Wolfson contemted over words of Amelie before he spoke sinctly. "Alright, you may leave." After five to six seconds of registering Arthur''s words in her ears, she stood up, bowed, then turned her back as she walked with small steps. An ominous smile was painted on her lips. ... "Do you trust her?" The man with short blonde hair asked, looking at the back of the woman as her figure dissipates in their sight. "At first no, but she wasn''t faltering at all while speaking, you know that even a clown breaks their character in front of being pressured. If she was truly acting, she better go to the entertainment industry. "I''ll officially dere her entry to others if we proved what she just said as correct." Arthur Wolfson said, looking at his left side where a woman was standing. "She''s an E rank with Battle Mage profession. She didn''t have any Status Appraisal Skill and she didn''t have many skills except for Staff Mastery." "Is that so... thank you, Ruina. By the way, Rein, have someone to find out when''s the schedule of our suspected culprit." Arthur addressed the two. It was Ruina and Rein who interacted with Samantha during the Banquet of Obelisk. Rein just nodded as he quickly tapped into his smartwatch, contacting someone to do the job. Arthur then stood up and stretched his hands before saying while walking to leave. "Alright, let''s wait and see." ... Obelisk Laboratory for General Alchemist (OLGA) A woman with green hair and green eyes as if she was an embodiment of nature''s purity was stirring some ingredients in chemical form as whitish, glistening smoke from the conical sk was evaporating. On the other side of theboratory, a woman whose hair was dyed brown while her eyes were yellow was burning something called Twinkle Leaf, a determinant that came from the Nereian mountain range, its purpose was to soften the thick liquid of potion for the person to easily consume it, and it''s the best Mana Regtor to halt any possible side effects such as Mana Ipatibility because Mana... such as Chaos within one''s body also has its own signature which was the reason why a person cannot just transfer Mana in another''s body, thus the existence of Mana Potions. "2 minutes." An Obelisk Laboratory staff whose specialty was in regards to Neo-Chemistry and has a Rare Profession called Chemical Appraiser which lets someone crack a potion back into its originalponents with the use of a Chemical Appraiser exclusive skill: Chemical Assembly. ... [Activating Skill: Nature Blessing] Celine Cello-ana activated a skill exclusive to her as the final touch for the potion-making battle then a small,plicated green magic circle appeared atop the tip of the round-bottom sk where she poured the potion that she just concocted using the conical sk. ''Sigh... I barely made it. It''s hard to make a potion within only 15 minutes.'' She sighed inwardly, slightlyining about the unexpected, nonsensical duration to make a potion. After a few seconds, the judge of the battle used a skill that made the potions they made fly in the air, then arrived at the judge''s hands who looked at the potions for a few seconds. "Celine wins." The judge said sinctly. "Yes!" Celine didn''t hide her joyfulness as her small hands clenched reflexively because her opponent was also formidable and would probably be sought by known Guilds in the future. "Katelyn, you''ve done well, too. Continue to improve yourself. As a biased opinion, you''ll have a great future as an Alchemist in some renowned Guild." "Thank you, Miss Astrea. I''ll take it to heart. "Thank you for the match, and congrats Celine." Katelyn said sincerely as she bowed her head to the judge who watched them pour and stir ingredients just now, and to Celine who just won the Ranking Exchange battle against her. "Alright, you may go now, and Celine... Stay." ... After Katelyn left, Celine stayed in theboratory with Miss Astrea, seemingly confused about why she was asked to stay. "Have you thought about your future?" Celine ¡ª who heard Miss Astrea''s t voice ¡ª cocked her head, caught off-guard with the unexpected question. "Huh...?" Miss Astrea chuckled as the seemingly lost Celine became dazed as if her sense of reason left her body for a moment. "Let me rephrase the question, what do you want to do in the future?" Celine was snapped back to reality as she turned lucid, hearing Miss Astrea''s question. "A-ah, I-I don''t know... I-I just want to make p-potions." Celine spoke as her mouth slightly trembled, a trace of innocence can be seen in her expression. "Is that so... Alright. You may go now. Congrattions again on defending your position in the A-1 ss." Celine bowed but her head was full of confusion before she left the OLGA building. ... "I don''t like him. I don''t know why, but that''s how I feel." Han Jiho said in a low voice as he kept his pace with others, walking side by side. Anya ¡ª who, at this time, join with them ¡ª listened attentively to Han Jiho''s words because she felt the same when ites to that person. "Hey, hey, I''m listening, please do tell me the reasons, whatever they might be." Rumia scoffed at Elizabeth''s way of speaking before she interjected to voice her opinion. "I don''t find or feel anything wrong with the Student Council President, though. He seems normal to me. Well, at least when ites to the new definition of ''normal''." Rumia said casually, her hands behind her back as she walked. Han Jiho became curious about Rumia''s words... To be specific, herst sentence. "New normal? What about ''Old normal''?" He asked seriously while looking at Rumia from the side. "Old normal exists before the Emergence happened, but the traces of history at that point in time was almostpletely destroyed. Either it was burned due to chain disasters with the climate change or drowned in the depths of the earth. My mother said it was when the System, Skills, Dungeon Towers, and Constetions didn''t exist... or more like didn''t appear yet." Rumia said as if she became a storyteller. Han Jiho ruminated over Rumia''s words but at that moment, his head felt a pang as a notification from the System entered his ears. After enduring a little, without alerting thepany, he read the System message. [Warning! Your ??? of the Past cannot be essed without the ??? Shards!] [Collected ??? Shards 0/10000] [Collected ??? Fragments 0/100] ... Han Jiho recalled his Authority from a mysterious Constetion whose Cosmic Title was unknown. Authority: Fragment of Lights ''Alexander said he had no idea about it either.'' He previously asked Chancellor Alexander when he trained under him during the countless visits he made in the Sanctum Sris after the Monster Stampede that killed almost everyone in his vige. "Mister, what are you thinking? We''ve arrived." "Ah, nothing. I''m sorry." Han Jiho replied to Elizabeth who was looking at him with a somewhat yful expression as her lips curled up. Recovering from his little reverie, he began to scan his surroundings, causing his eyes to slightly shine. Weapons and armor of various kinds. hanging side by side in the room. The designs were intricate and somewhat colorful. "Tada-! A sponsorship from some rich investors!" Rumia said stretching and waving her hands as if she did a magic trick. She continued to speak as she saw Han Jiho''s confused face. "I don''t know where you came from, but don''t tell me you don''t know what investors are?" "No, I do." Alexander once told him that there are people who will do anything to get the good graces of what they deemed to have a great future or great power. "Alright, so in this case just as I said earlier, some rich guys sponsored us. If you don''t have a personal weapon, this is great for you, but if you do have one, then a secondary weapon wouldn''t be so bad, right? So take your pick." Elizabeth listened to Rumia before she interjected. "Our respective parents also told us to ept any investments because their only intention is to have connections with our respective guilds, and it''s fine because if they try anything funny, they''ll just be assassinated, you know. And, why didn''t you tell us before that you were rmended here by the Chancellor himself? That''s why when it came to light, various investors flocked into the Chancellor''s office like a group of fish in a small pond." Han Jiho listened to Elizabeth''s words as they started to observe weapons and armor inside one of the Obelisks secured equipment storage buildings. ''We haven''t even talked to each other before. If not for the Banquet of Obelisk, I don''t think this kind of thing will even happen.'' "That''s a good one." Han Jiho was snapped out of his thoughts as he saw a glistening, yellowish, long sword. But unconsciously, he felt drawn to it before he said to Rumia as he pointed his index finger in the direction of where the weapon was hanging. "I''ll have that one." "Alright, take it. Let''s bring it to the manager of this ceter." Rumia said as she picked a purple, slightly thin whip before she scans her surrounding around, watching the others. ... After an unknown period of time, all of them managed to choose their weapons. Han Jiho then asked out of nowhere. "By the way, why is Samantha not with us? Aren''t there many investors who wanted to make connections with the number 1 guild?" "You''re right, too many to count if I may say, but she didn''t feel the need to obtain a weapon through investors." Elizabeth replied casually as she slightly swung her additional shortsword that has a cloud design. "Well, she might just be the weapon herself." Rumia said, causing Han Jiho to ponder a little before he asked, his expression was full of curiosity. "I noticed it from before... But, don''t you think you''re praising Samantha too much? As if she''s beyond human." Rumia and Elizabeth looked at him with inexplicable expressions, but before they say anything in regards to what Han Jiho just said, the seemingly quiet woman spoke first. "Because she deserved such praise." It was from Anya Amasawa. "Is that so..." Han Jiho replied while his emotions and will to fight Samantha on the fifth day of the Emergence event intensified. Chapter 82 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (9) Fourth Day of the Emergence Event Remembrance, and also thest day of the Ranking of Exchange. A man with short ck hair, brown eyes, and a good build was standing in the middle of the arena in the Obelisk Grand Stadium that was filled with some students from the first year to the third year, media workers from different mediapanies, guild Scouters from various guilds ¡ª known or in the process of making themselves known. It was the referee that presided from day one of the Ranking of Exchange. "This will be the twelfth match for today! We will witness a very rare case in this battle because the Rank difference is massive. And without further ado. Here I call... "The defender and Rank 40, Bailey rkson of the first year, and the challenger from the same year... Rank 393, Russell Moon!" Confused faces were painted on everyone as if their different emotions were snatched away from them except for some exceptional people such as the Student Council President, Reinhardt, and Ruina who came to watch the suspected culprit about Kevin''s disappearance. There was also the presence of the known seniors, the Disciplinary Committee President, Azalea Vermillion; Student Council Secretary, Victoria Angelica Rasputin, and the Disciplinary Committee Secretary, Aisha Whispercrest. Their presence garnered so much attention, but Guild Scouters knew or just thought that they might already have affiliations, thus the Guild Scouters were avoiding them because it''s not their job to make connections but rather just scout. After an unknown period of time, the battle between Bailey rkson and Russell Moon started. ... "Why are you here Azalea? I didn''t think you''d be interested in this kind of fight." Arthur Wolfson asked casually, wearing his public image aura. Azalea Vermillion chuckled before answering while looking at the two in the arena, sizing each other up. "Well, what can I say? I might want to see someone get beat up." Arthurughed softly as he didn''t make any response, focusing on what was happening in the arena, but at that moment, he heard Azalea''s voice from a few seats away from him. "Arthur, want to make a bet with me on who will win?" "Ha... what''s this now? You''re really tripping, aren''t you?" A bet between the Number 1 and Number 2 in the third year was something very interesting in the eyes of the spectators, especially their ssmates. "No, I''m not, see, that Bailey rkson from the first year is still talking. None of them has any injury or showing signs of fatigue because they''re sizing each other. Do you want to hear more?" Arthur nodded at Azalea''s words said with a mild provocative tone. "Let''s bet on who will win. One wish for the winner under a Mana Contract. How about it? Heh heh." ''This woman is being crazy.'' Arthur thought as he heard the word Mana Contract which reduced their Mana Power stat by 75% permanently and will stagnate one''s growth if they broke the conditions. "That''s not fair, you''re going to bet on the sure one." Arthur asked Ruina earlier to do a Status Appraisal of the participants this time, specifically of Russell Moon, the suspected culprit regarding Kevin''s disappearance. ''He''s an F rank, a in warrior-type profession. It''s also confirmed that he has a unique acupuncture skill... He must have used some artifact against Kevin to win.'' "Haha, I''ll bet to Rank 393, Russell Moon. How about it? One wish for the winner under a Mana Contract... You see, I know what you want." Azalea said with a cheeky smile on her face. ''This f*cking b*tch!'' Arthur''s emotions suddenly turned a hundred eighty degrees while keeping his public image straight with Azalea''s words because he needed something that will strengthen his power, an artifact thatplement his profession, Puppet Controller, and Azalea, for some reason have ess to a such artifact which she showed him through a photo, and waster verified by pulling some strings from behind. ''I don''t know how''d you get ahold of it, but I really need it.'' "You better remember your words." Arthur said in agreement. Azalea then took out a Mana Contract scroll inside her Dimensional Inventory, causing the students in the surroundings to slightly gasped as they came to know about the bet. After some time, they listed in the Mana Contract the conditions as the System messages appeared in their eyes. [You have signed a Mana Contract with the Party named...] [The Contract Condition is listed as the following.] [Condition: Arthur Wolfson or Azalea Vermillion will grant one wish if one of either party loses the bet they made for themselves.] [The wishes are as follows: 1. If Arthur Wolfson wins the bet, he will receive an artifact ording to his wish. 2. If Azalea Vermillion wins the bet, she wanted for Arthur Wolfson to let the woman named Victoria Angelica Rasputin leave the Student Council.] [Not fulfilling one''s wish will permanently reduce the Mana Power of the loser party by 75% percent.] ... "I was thinking about how to get back with Freya after ruining our fun previously, you know I can''ty a hand or even say a word against her because of the d*mn ''Protection Mark'' that Disciplinary Committee member receives, but here we are, her brother came to get beat up. Haha!" Bailey rkson said with a grin painted on his lips as he found the situation amusing. Russell Moon ¡ª standing on the other side of the arena ¡ª was only listening to his opponent''s babbling as he only said one sentence in his mind. ''This is the brat that indirectly called Freya a prostitute.'' He knew from before, by visiting Freya''s ssroom sometimes, what the bullies that Freya told him about previously looked like. "Oi. Oi, what''s with that shabby sword you''re holding? Haha! But you are shabbier than it, I see." Russell was holding a Crude Shortsword (Normal) which he bought from the Thorn of Rose ck Market earlier, but it has a name which is ''Sword of Shad'' with only one Intrinsic Effect called Weight Pressure that came from the Monster Core of a particr type of Golem. The more Mana he injected into it, the more the sword''s weight will be increased, and its cutting potential will be greatly reduced, turning it into a blunt weapon. It is a crude version of the Elderwood Training Sword he asionally uses in the Chaos Training Grounds. It was transferred through a small portal instantly before his scheduled fight. His Crude Shortsword which he bought from the yer General Store was previously destroyed in the Chaos Training Grounds after a period of time as its durability reached its limit. ''Well, it''s shabby from the looks of it, but this guy sure talks a lot.'' Whoosh-! Bam-! Suddenly, Russell vanished from his spot, appearing in front of Bailey, who didn''t finish processing what just happened as the Sword of Shad that was injected with Mana, bing a blunt weapon, smashed into his right shoulder which caused him to fall into his knee. "Argh-!" As a semi-tanker who was holding a small shield and a long sword, his health and stamina were certainly high. ''That just makes you a punching bug with high durability.'' Russell thought as he smashed the Sword of Shad again, not giving Bailey any time to react. Bam-! This time, he hit him from the left shoulder, causing his other knee topletely fall to the ground. "W-wh-" Boom-! "Argh-!" Without waiting for him to finish whatever he was about to say, the impact that was delivered this time was stronger as if a bomb exploded. He tried to lift his small shield, but, s, it was to no avail as his small shield which Russell didn''t even bother to think about started to crack and then shattered into pieces because Russellbined Strength and then Agility which was multiplied by 5 times with the additional effect of his skill Cull and Cut, the exclusive skill under his profession. He recalled the effects of the upgraded version of Weapon Mastery as he looked at the Sword of Shad on his hand before cleaving it again to Bailey''s head which almost pass out. Cut - When using a Sword weapon, your agility increased by five times (capped at 4,999 agility) - Cutting is not limited to the physical realm. His original Agility stat after some training in the Chaos Training Grounds; giving his younger sister and Amery the Chaos Trait with his Unique Skill: Chaos Buff which gave him a total additional overall stat of 150, and by consuming a fourth of the Fruit of Chaos, giving him additional overall stat of 100... Agility: 420 (+135) And while holding a Sword weapon, Agility: 555 (5)... A staggering 2,755 Agility, a stat at the realm of A rank. ''Well, it won''t hold a candle to some people whose stats are 5 digits.'' Russell thought as he looked at Bailey, slumping on the ground, his armor tattered, almost broken. Bailey''s expression has of that disbelief and horror. "I-I surren-" Pa-! His trembling lips attempted to surrender quickly, but at that moment his voice won''te out and his body won''t move. "Sorry, not right now." Russell said, his deep blue eyes seeming to have a luster that emitted pure coldness. The rule to win the battle is for the opponent to surrender by saying the words ''Surrender'' itself, or by knocking out the opponent, but by blocking Bailey''s ability to speak by using the Void Acupuncture (EX) skill, he won''t be able to surrender unless he''s knock out. "Thank the rules, we''ve given three chances to use Mid-Grade Health Potion." Russell heaved a sigh of relief at this situation as he took out a Mid-Grade Health Potion from his Dimensional Inventory, but at that moment, instead of chugging the Mid-Grade Health Potion for himself, he squatted down and force into Bailey''s mouth the lidless potion. Bailey''s tattered body from blunt smashes gradually recovered, but he can''t move his body or speak. Pa-! Pa-! Pa-! After using the Void Acupuncture again, hitting Bailey''s acupuncture points for him to be able to move his limbs aside from his mouth, Russell spoke with a provocative tone. "Stand up, we have 10 minutes left." It was only four minutes had passed since the beginning of the battle. ... ''This f*cker!!! I''m gonna kill you! ''I was just caught off guard... That''s right... Die!'' Bailey rkson''s thoughts were a mess as he heard what his opponent just said before he lunged forward, holding the longsword he didn''t manage to use before while his small shield was longer of value. His speed was remarkably well for being an A-1 student, but unfortunately for him, his opponent''s Agility exceeded his by a great margin. Boom-! Thus, the beating continues. ... "Heh heh. Look at that, it looks like the winner is already decided Mister Student Council President." Azalea Vermillion ¡ª who was a few seats away, watching the spectacle in the arena ¡ª said cheekily, but her thoughts and emotions were of shock because the Artifact that the Student Council President greatly desired didn''t hold a value to her and she just did a bet for fun. Who could have thought that the demanding F rank would beat one-sidedly his opponent. ''I''m sure he''s an F rank, but he''s definitely not normal. ''Is that hisst Mid-Grade Health Potion, what a brutal move as if he has a deep grudge against his opponent.'' Azalea thought before she heard Arthur''s voice ¡ª a woman with red hair and red eyes, and a man with short blonde hair and deep blue eyes were sitting beside him. "You win. I don''t know the reason for your wish, but I have no choice, but to fulfill it." Arthur said with a smile on his face, not to maintain his public image with the prying eyes of others, but he confirmed one thing. That Bailey''s opponent was the one they were looking for. ... "Oops,e back here, I''m not done yet, you f*cker." Russell pulled Bailey by his hair as he attempted to jump outside the arena which was equivalent to knock out, but with his speed, Bailey didn''t manage to do so. Bam-! Bam-! Russell mmed Bailey to the ground like a baseball bat being swung to the hardball. "What a tenacious brat." p-! p-! He pped him hard a few times before kicking him out of the arena, ending the match. Chapter 83 Fortieth Emergence Anniversary (10) "Oppa! Congrats on winning... And beating the hell out of him." Freya ¡ª who is slowly walking beside her older brother, Amelie, and Amery ¡ª said in a cheerful tone. "On Monday, I''ll see you in ss. By the way, what are you guys want to do?" After winning the Ranking of Exchange against Bailey rkson, the privileges of being an A-1 student were transferred to him immediately, stripping Bailey of his. Then as a bonus reward for winning against someone within the rank bracket of 31 to 40, he received 50,000 Obel that was simultaneously sent to his Personal Obelisk ount after he received the congrattory email from the DCO sent by Aisha Whispercrest, Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee. "Oppa, let''s grab some food first before going to your dorm, don''t you need to pack your clothes and whatnot?" Russell nodded before he looked at Amelie who also nodded without saying anything. Amery ¡ª who was keeping her pace ¡ª looked at them suspiciously, but she didn''t pry into it because she already developed a level of trust that she wouldn''t be betrayed. ... After arriving at Russell''s dorm, the trio of women helped him assort his belongings before he put them inside his Dimensional Inventory. "Oppa, I''m curious, why are normal items can''t be appraised?" Freya''s question prompted Amelie and Amery to look at her while Russell paused for a second before he answered. "Maybe because they didn''te from the System." He answered vaguely with also curiosity in his words, but he knew the answer based on his unpublished novel in his previous life. Anything that didn''t have a sliver of a trace of Mana in it wouldn''t be registered in the System''s data, unable to be appraised. Although Mana became abundant, causing the technology to advance hundreds or maybe even thousands of years, professions especially the production-rted ones could make items with the help of their skills through the use of Mana, there are still people who make necessities without the use of any skills because it was simply costly as Mana can be exhausted within one''s body and needed time to be regenerated. The cost of Mana Potions outweighs the benefits of making items with Mana, thus themonality of necessities in the Old World and Post-Emergence World still exists. "Freya, you know, your brother is really smart. He answers vaguely, but maybe he really knows the answer." Amelie said as she finished preparing the meal they bought in the Obelisk Cafeteria One. ''What''s this again now?'' He couldn''t understand, but he feels like he was being misunderstood again. "Right, right, thanks to his Constetion. Heh heh." Russell''s mouth was slightly agape at his younger sister''s words because he wouldn''t be able to answer that. ''But strange, I''m almost certain that the Goddess of Night knew that I am a reincarnated person, but ''She'' never brought it up. Well, I guess I should be thankful... Also, she just mocked me previously and not talked about Celine.'' Russell recalled when his younger sister asked him about the Pure Form of a potion that her ssmate, Celine Cello-ana conjured when they were inside the Virtual Battleground and then the Goddess of Night grinned at him as per the System message, but nothing came after it. "Sigh... that''s all of it, thank you." As he reined in his thoughts, Russell nced at Amelie and Amery who are now munching some sandwiches and desserts, the two just nodded while eating, minding their own world. ''Can you two take a sit first before eating?'' ... Room 02, Gaia Building "Student Council President, why did you call me here?" "Rx, how are you feeling?" The Student Council President looked at the standing Bailey rkson whose expressions were full of irritation as he seemed to remember what happened earlier. "Go straight to the point, I don''t have time for some chattering." Bailey said with a clear irritation in his voice. "Woah there, easy now. Do you want revenge?" Bailey was confused at the Student Council President''s words as he slightly cocked his head to the side before he asked in confirmation. "Revenge? Did I hear that right? Ha... Hahaha! "The Student Council President who is adored by many... is asking me if I want to have revenge? Hahahaha! "I want to, but I don''t need your help. "I''ll pretend I was never here and will take my leave." ''This f*cker is a two-faced bastard! Who knows if he''ll leave me hanging in the airter!?'' Bailey realized something as he heard the Student Council President''s previous words. Arthur Wolfson just smiled at Bailey''s babbling before he said in a monotonous yet ominous tone. "Well, you''ll have no choice, but to take revenge." At that moment, Bailey''s mind turned nk. Although he was still lucid, he couldn''t control his body of his own will. ... "Congrattions. I''ll see you on Monday." Samantha ¡ª who just made her own dinner ¡ª texted Russell via smartwatch as she came to know the result of his Ranking of Exchange. She, Elizabeth, Rumia, Anya, Jiho, and Leon didn''t have any interest in watching such fights which weren''t required to attend in the first ce, and one of the main reasons were they wanted to avoid making a public appearance unnecessarily. "Thank you." Russell ¡ª on the other end of the line ¡ª replied sinctly, causing Samantha''s lips to curl up a little before she proceeded to eat the meal she made. After a few minutes, as she was just done washing the dishes, a notification from her smartwatch sounded in her ears, she then read the message''s contents. [DCO Notice] "Tomorrow will be the final day of the Emergence Event Remembrance. "And on this final day, everyone from the A-1 ss of the same year has the right to challenge his/her ssmate, taking into ount that the one who is being challenged must have the same type of profession as the challenger. "Samantha Hall, Rank 1, I''m here to announce that you have been challenged by Han Jiho, Rank 6 in your ss. "Take note that this exhibition battle is without concessions, thus whatever the result of the battle is, your Rank will not be affected. "Your exhibition battle tomorrow is scheduled at exactly 4:00 P.M. "Please, prepare however you can." [Sender: Aisha, DCO Secretary] After Samantha read that, she just went on her normal route, sitting on her couch for a minute or two as if shepletely forgot what she had just read. Then after a few seconds when she just took her seat, a womanly, dignified voice rang in her head. Samantha ¡ª who heard the voice in her head ¡ª didn''t freak out or let out any reaction as if what she heard was very normal to her. ... ? [DCO Notice] "Tomorrow will be the final day of the Emergence Event Remembrance. "And on this final day, everyone from the A-1 ss of the same year has the right to challenge his/her ssmate, taking into ount that the one who is being challenged must have the same type of profession as the challenger. "Han Jiho, Rank 5, I''m here to announce that you have been challenged by Leon von Obreyon, Rank 6 in your ss. "Take note that this exhibition battle is without concessions, thus whatever the result of the battle is, your Rank will not be affected. "Your exhibition battle tomorrow is scheduled at exactly 10:30 A.M. "Please, prepare however you can." [Sender: Aisha, DCO Secretary] Han Jiho ¡ª who was training in his Personal Training Ground in his dorm room ¡ª suddenly paused for a moment as he read the contents of the message. ''I don''t know why, but it seems that guy has something on me.'' Although he wanted to fight Samantha to see how strong she is based on the praises she''s having that came from notable people like the two Princesses, he felt that Leon''s reason for challenging him was something that has to do with rankings itself. ''Sigh... I guess I''ll have two battles tomorrow.'' ... Looking outside the window where the bluish moon was hanging above the starry night, vast sky. Russell ¡ª who was now sitting on his bed ¡ª thought about various things. It was the personality he seemed to have inherited in his previous life... That when he''s alone, thoughts after thoughts were surfacing within his head. ''I don''t know what will happen tomorrow. What a drag.'' As the author who reincarnated in his unpublished novel, he very well knew about the major events that will happen in the far future, but somehow he''s feeling irritated because the simple event tomorrow ispletely blurry to him. He may have various ideas based on the rtionship of the Main Characters, but he still felt lost for some inexplicable reason. ''I guess the plot is f*cking me up.'' Russell jokingly said inwardly. He knew deep inside that this was almost very different from the story he didn''t manage to publish. The moment he reincarnated inside his own unpublished novel, he already realized that there was something, some reason behind his reincarnation. ''But I don''t care. Because I want this life more than the previous one.'' He said inwardly before he organized himself, putting on some in clothes, and a mask, and then suddenly vanished from his soon-to-be former dorm room. ... Room 01, Gaia Building. A woman with tinum hair and ruby eyes was standing in front of a full-body mirror,bing her hair as a towel wrapped in her body. Azalea ¡ª who just finished taking a bath at thiste at night ¡ª suddenly noticed an existence from behind through her instinct as she reflexively look behind, quickly taking out a certain Spellbook from her Dimensional Inventory, ready to defend herself. "Who''s there?" She calmly asked, observing the interiors of her dorm that was veryplicated in design. A-1 students certainly have a kind of liberty to do whatever they wanted in their dorm, considering that the costs were from their own pocket. "I''ll count to three, if you don''t show yourself, I''ll call the guards, you know very well how strong are the guards who work here." ''I can''t even sense this intruder''s presence.'' She became gradually rmed at the realization because her perception was not to be scoffed at, but at this moment, it seems like the intruder just vanished into thin air. ''Ah crap, screw it!'' She quickly tapped on her smartwatch... At least that''s what was supposed to happen, but then a hand of a man grabbed her wrist, prompting her to struggle reflexively. After a second or two, she looked at the intruder and saw an average-looking man with deep ck hair that seemed to represent the darkness of the night, and deep blue eyes that resembles the deepness of the unexplored ocean. She then muttered the name of the person in front of her. "R-Russell? "W-what, No, how are you here? It was the man who demanded to have a change in schedule in his Ranking of Exchange battle. It was the man who somehow left a certain impression on her by winning the Challenge of Exchange. "Let me go first." She calmly said, looking at him as she sensed that he meant no harm, at least ording to what her instincts told her as someone experienced in various kinds of things. Her expression turned into bewilderment after her realization about something... It''s because a supposed-to-be F rank had just sneaked into her dorm room which could only mean a thing ¡ª he bypassed the security guards whose ranks were not to be scoffed at undetected. ''How did he do it? This man is really something else!'' She thought inwardly as she kept her distance after Russell let go of her hand before she sat on one of the armchairs around the kitchen table with her legs crossed. Russell looked at her ruby eyes and without any word of greetings, Azalea''s ruby eyes slightly constricted at his first words that reverberated in her dorm room, entered her ears, echoed in her mind, then pierced her very being. "Good evening, Miss Thorn of Rose." Chapter 84 Four Seeds Of Direction "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Azalea''s ruby eyes were looking intensely at Russell''s deep blue eyes. Sheposed herself the moment she heard Russell''s words, at least that was what appeared superficially, but inwardly she was shaken by what she heard. "Except that you do." Russell responded to her intense gaze before he said casually while still standing with his back on the wall. "Ha... a first-year student who I don''t even know intrudes in my dorm using an unknown means... What do you think will happen if I somehow report it to the officials here? "You''ll be expelled and your sister... Freya, right? She''ll bear the shame of what her brother did..." Azalea ¡ª who somehow came to know about his rtionship with one of the women who went with him to register in the Ranking of Exchange ¡ª spoke firmly or more like directly threatened Russell who is standing in front of her, but he just casually listened to her as if he finds the situation tiresome. "You talk too much. I need something that you have ess to... Miss Thorn. Russell said monotonously, cutting Azalea''s babbling, causing her to look at him as she bes momentarily at a loss for words. She didn''t immediately reply as she start sizing up the man in front of her. Then, after some time, she leaned slightly, entuating her voluptuous, fair-colored body. She''s attempting to draw his attention somewhere else. "Don''t try anything funny." Russell said as she looked at Azalea whose body was covered with a wet towel. ''I came here at the wrong time. Phew.'' He thought about the ridiculous situation he was in at this moment. "I don''t really know what you''re talking about. "Leave, and I''ll let this go. "Or I''ll report you for attempting to **** me." Azalea said with herposed tone as she started to tap unconsciously the table in front of her, a very different reaction that a woman must have when someone intrudes on her home. "I see... So this is how it''s going to be." She slightly flinched at Russell''s words. She has no idea if he noticed her action or not, but somehow, his words send her an ominous signal within her brain. "What do you want?" She asked, not waiting for his next words because she has this feeling that whatever words wille out of the man''s mouth standing in front of her will make her feelpletely bare... Not of her body, but her whole being. "''s Needle." Azalea''s mind went into a nk for a moment when she heard what Russell wanted. "Not for free, of course, Miss Thorn." Then she was snapped out of her nk thoughts, sending her back to a sense of reality. "I have no idea why you are calling me that." ''Why the hell are you so sure of it!?'' She said as various thoughts raced in her mind, she then keeps denying what he was saying from the moment he arrived. "If I say first that it''s not for free, that''s how business works, I''ll probably indirectly confirm that I am the owner of the Thorn of Rose ck Market even though that''s not even a shred of evidence in itself, but considering the situation... h h. Russell said, his lips forming a grin as he looked at Azalea whose expression turned into a daze. He then continued to babble something. "Even though you are strong... in your own league within the third years perhaps, you still let a man who you just met a few days ago stay longer in your dorm instead of doing an appropriate response. "Isn''t defending, screaming, or reporting the right way to do the moment you saw me? Or maybe send a message via telepathy in nearby dorm rooms? "And yet, you''re soposed as if you faced more intimidating people before. "Sigh... As expected of the owner of the ck Market." ... "You talk too much... "Isn''t that what you just said earlier to me? And now, you are babbling more than me." Azalea chuckled, finding the situation amusing after she listened to whatever Russell just told her as she seemed to forget about ''s Needle. Russell looked at the gorgeous face of the President of the Disciplinary Committee as he responded with a smile. "At least I don''t talk to make an excuse to avoid something." Her smiling lips vanished as if it wasn''t there in the first ce upon hearing his rebuttal. "How did you know? No, more than that, how are you so certain that I am the owner of something called Thorn of Rose?" She asked after reining in her thoughts before she stood up, and walked to a refrigerator to get some cold wine and two wine sses. Russell just looked at her actions before he asked a question. "Is answering your questions the price I have to pay for ''s Needle? You see, information is very valuable." Pouring some Nereian wine, the glistening, purple liquid flowed inside the two wine sses. Azalea took a sip while signaling Russell with her eyes to drink some of it. "I''m a minor." He said with a straight face, but within his mind, he thought that with the money he received from winning a bet against Riya from the Starlight Guild and winning against Bailey, he''ll have some spare cash for a wine. "Your mind might not be though." Azalea said as she chuckled at his words, then after pondering a little, she talked about the purpose of the man. "''s Needle... A Unique Artifact that costs half a billion, standard market price. Then you''re saying, you will pay for it with information? "Aside from you sneaking into my dorm undetected for some unknown means which I don''t know if the information about how you did it will cost half a billion, what more can you offer then?" After listening to Azalea''s reasonable words, Russell responded with a question while avoiding looking at the Nereian wine meant for him at the round table to restrain himself from the unnecessary feeling of temptation. "What do you want then? You might not know, maybe I''ll be able to grant it." "Bold words... but with no basis. "Well, how about you give me information about how to acquire the Four Seeds of Direction, and a branch of the World Tree, ''Yggdrasil''? "Its information value might be equal, if not higher than a Legendary-Grade Artifact which cost a billion and a half." Azalea said sarcastically before gulping a mouthful of Nereian wine while her eyes focused on Russell, not expecting any proper response from him. At that moment, Russell took something out from his Dimensional Inventory, walked towards the round table, and after writing something on it, hey it down near the wine ss with Nereian wine that was meant for him. It was a piece of paper. ... "Did he just leave without saying another word?" It was just a minute or two that had passed since Russell wrote something on a piece of paper, and quickly disappear without saying another word. "But that simple-looking mask is something else..." She muttered as she poured another ss of Nereian wine while thinking about how Russell disappeared in front of her which she didn''t think makes any sense because blending in the shadows can easily be detected by security guards unless they were on his payroll. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 ''Which isn''t likely the case.'' After Russell''s iprehensible action, Azalea didn''t pick up and check quickly whatever was written on the piece of paper he left behind, rather, she finishes her second ss of wine before she grabbed the white paper and started to look at it. "Four Seeds of Direction Location "1. stor ¨C Museum of Neo-Botany. "2. Etheria ¡ª Forest of the True Green. "3. Nereia ¡ª Sea People Kingdom. "4. Arka ¡ª Strayed Dungeon: Ice Golem King Territory. "Verify first whatever you think is the quickest to process, then contact me again." ... Azalea didn''t know whether tough or cry at what she just read, but soon after, she let out a chuckle. ''He wrote it in front of me, how did hee up with such names?'' Her expression turned into disbelief. She was starting to believe that Russell was a good chatan, but for some reason, she felt like she needed to check it out because the Museum of Neo-Botany is one of the famous attractions in the Westernmost Orion, stor, and the Forest of the True Green in Etheria was where a band of adventurers stumbled into the races of Treants, Ents, and Fairies. It was a well-known story where the adventurers received recovery aid due to one of them having the Title: yer of Green after they were attacked by Strayed Monster Beasts. Azalea also noticed the directions to the locations that Russell gave to her. It pointed to the four known directions ¡ª West, North, East, and South. But the reason she found it hard to believe was because of Earth''s diameter that became seven timesrger after the Emergence, and even today that the technology became so advanced by hundreds, if not by thousands of years, humanity still hasn''t been able to explore everything yet. ''Howe the ces he pointed out were specifically in the Orion Continent only?'' Because the Four Seeds of Direction might be hidden in the far, far side of the, that''s why Azalea, although her instincts are telling her that what Russell wrote might be true, couldn''t be fully certain yet. After some time of processing everything in her head, she stood up from where she sat, walked to the closet, and picked up her underwear. Then after wearing them, she slumped down on her bed, recalling what just happened earlier, but this time, her thoughts were unrted to the Artifact called ''s Needle, the Four Seeds of Direction she greatly needed, or how Russell was certain about her identity as the Master of the Thorn of Rose ck Market that many conglomerates in the yer Industry have a connection with. At this moment, she painted in her mind how Russell looked at her with his cold eyes even though she was only covered with a towel earlier. "He didn''t even bat an eye at my figure when most men gawked at me whenever their intrinsic nature kicks in even with my clothes on. "How bold and mature..." Azalea muttered as her lips turned into a sexy smile while turning her body to the side before she seductively and softly bit her right index finger as her ruby eyes seems to contain a luster as they reflected the illumination of the bluish moon. Then, after thinking something inappropriate and feeling her emotions turn hot, one of her hands reached for something below her. ... Arriving at his dorm roomte at night, Russell heaved a sigh of relief as he reined in his thoughts. ''Too bad for her, I have a 33-year-old mentality and had plenty of experience in my previous life... before I became a shut-in.'' Russell thought, feeling somehow nostalgic. He knew very well about Azalea''s true nature without even using the ''Eye of Night'' skill as the owner or master of the Thorn of Rose ck Market. Although he arrived at an unwanted moment, he managed topose himself as if he were a robot who couldn''t feel a thing. After a few seconds, he stopped his unnecessary thoughts before ying in his head about the n to fish out the Student Council President in hisir. "I''m sure he already nted a psychological cue within Bailey by now." He muttered while he sat on his bed before slowly lying on it with his two hands on the back of his head, his eyes staring at the ceiling. ''He''s easy to read just like a book... Or should I say, he''s easy to read because he was from my book?'' Russell thought jokingly as he chuckled before closing his deep blue eyes. ... The next day morning, thest day of the Emergence Event Remembrance. A man with blonde hair and deep blue eyes was standing on one of the sides of the arena, and a few meters away from him was a man with short ck hair and deep ck eyes. Both were holding a sword, pointing against each other. After an unknown period of time, the referee shouted what everyone in the Grand Obelisk Stadium wanted to hear. "Begin!" Chapter 85 Exhibition Battle (1) In the middle of the arena, Han Jiho and Leon von Obreyon are facing each other, sizing each other up before the signal from the referee goes off. "Begin!" The moment the referee gave the signal to start the battle, Leon quickly vanished from his position as if he wasn''t there in the first ce. He arrived midair in front of Jiho, cleaving down his personal weapon, a ck-colored sword called Dark Obsidian Sword (Growth), it was a gift from his father when he turned seven years old and received the System. It was made from an Obsidian mineral that was acquired from the Strayed Dungeon named Darkara Ruins where the Obsidian King resided. Obsidian''s cutting power was already proven even before the Old World perished due to the Emergence, but in this Post-Emergence World, with the consolidation of Mana, minerals such as obsidian, especially if it came from within a dungeon or the Boss Monster itself would certainly have additional effects. Han Jiho blocked Leon''s sword strike from above, then after a few seconds, a dark aura started to emanate from Leon''s Obsidian Sword. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 His mind seemed to turn nk for a moment as if the ckness or stillness caused by an unknown power invaded his mental barrier. "Hup-!" Leon continued to go for the offensive as he jumped again midair, spinning his body around before a diagonal sh mmed on Jiho, causing some cracks in the ground of the arena from where he was standing. [Activating Skill: Dark Energy de] This exhibition battle was very differentpared to the Virtual War because the restriction to not use any skills isn''t in ce, thus, the intensity of the battle was on a different level. After Leon activated one of his skills, the Dark Obsidian Sword which is still emanating a dark aura turned cker and as if a pulling force was added to it, a gust of wind inside the protected arena by a sturdy barrier seemed to revolve around Leon. ... ''He''s strong.'' Han Jiho ¡ª who was being pulled by an unknown force ¡ª acknowledged Leon''s strength. [Activating Skill: Light Steps] Increasing his movement speed in proportion to his Agility stat, he stood his ground, restraining the pulling force to some extent, but he wasn''t given a window to breathe as Leon continued his attacks. The dark aura from Leon''s sword seemed to block Jiho''s mental capacity to think clearly, causing him to be someone rxed at the unnecessary moment, and when he counterattacks, the pulling force from Leon''s sword disrupts the trajectory of his sh. It was abination of peace and disorder. Bam-! Jiho was sent flying from his spot, not because of the impact of the sword from Leon''s attack, but because of a kick, he received on his abdomen. It was an unexpected utilization of the body in a fight because most people, especially in this world use their weapons if their profession weren''t rted to using their fists or feet. Jiho got up from where he was slumped down, although the kick was painful, it was something bearable. ''It was nothingpared to Alexander''s training.'' He thought to himself, then at that moment, his deep ck eyes seemed to turn yellow. It was the manifestation of his Trait: Will of the Sword (SSS+) which lets him adapt quickly during battle especially when the opponent uses a melee-type weapon. ... Leon ¡ª who saw Han Jiho stood up from where hended after the kick he did ¡ª looked at him with calm eyes, he never expected Jiho to go down with just that. At that moment, he saw Jiho''s eyes turn yellow, it was like the embodiment of gold with no w in its purity. From the moment the battle started, Leon only used Expert Swordsmanship and not any sword art because he doesn''t have one yet, but he was promised by his father about a certain Constetion which made contact with him before via System. It was the Constetion, ''ck Dragon of Undying Star''. His father said that very soon, he''ll receive a sword art after the Constetions'' influence increased in the world which Leon didn''t know what his father meant. ''It''s no excuse if I lose here just because I don''t have a sword art yet.'' Leon thought, looking at Jiho''s deep ck eyes that turned golden, and the goldenness spread around his body. Without waiting for whatever is happening in front of him, Leon used another skill. [Activating Skill: Dark Cutter.] It was the same skill that Freya, Russell Moon''s younger sister used, but the only difference was the element it contained. Soon, des of darkness that seemed to cut and enveloped light appeared from the void of space, lunging themselves toward Han Jiho ¡ª who only watched what was happening with true stillness in his eyes. ... [Your Trait: Will of the Sword is helping you to adapt in your battle.] sh-! sh-! The des of darkness from the Dark Cutter skill evaporated with Han Jiho''s attack using the sword he received from the sponsorship of anonymous investors. [The Sword of ??? (Growth) is reacting with its owner.] [You are able to use the First Movement of Swordsmanship of [Sealed] without any physical backsh.] Han Jiho ¡ª who just dodge an iing attack from Leon after the Dark Cutter skill seemed to pause for a second as he quickly processed what the System message was. "Argh-!" He was cut in the shoulder within that slight opening he showed. Fighting without getting distracted by the System sounds was one of the mental training he received from Alexander, but at this moment, he seemed to forget about it because of the contents of the message, and the First Movement of the sealed swordsmanship he possessed flowed in his mind and carved into his soul perfectly. Jumping from afar to recover himself from Leon''s attack which almost cornered him at this moment... He didn''t hesitate to try the mysterious sword art. [Swordsmanship of [Sealed], First Movement: Dawn of Heresy.] ... Leon''s deep blue eyes dted with what''s in front of him as if they turned into a frozenke that depicts stillness because of the grandeur of light exuding from his opponent''s sword. A massive golden lightning dances around Han Jiho''s sword, then at that moment, something that cannot be perceived by average people happened. An illusory, majestic hand seemed to ovep Jiho''s hand that was holding the sword, and in an instant... Shing-! Thud-! Leon ¡ª who was a few meters away from Han Jiho ¡ª fell to his knees before his body fell with his face facing the ground. There were no marks or wounds on his body aside from earlier bouts that tested each other''s Advanced Swordsmanship. He lost consciousness due to the mysterious swordsmanship that Han Jiho used. Han Jiho became gradually worried that he might have killed Leon at this moment. Just as his thought turned into worries and anxiety, the referee ¡ª who somehow saw what happened due to his high perception as a high-rank staff of the Obelisk Academy ¡ª announced the result of the match, then he quickly approached Leon''s body and checked it under the gaze of everyone on the seats inside the Obelisk Grand Stadium. "Woah-!" "Leon lost!" "That''s the son of the fifth-ranked yer!" "I heard that his opponent is the one who became fifth in their ss?" "I never heard of him before, but what was that?" Cheering, questions, awe, and glistening eyes were looking at Han Jiho as he left the arena. They were the cheers of some of his ssmates or some students or people who betted on who would win the battle between them. Questions were raised by the Guild Scouters who watched the battle about the identity of Leon''s opponent. Awe was painted in somemoner students'' expressions as if Han Jiho unknowingly brought them inspiration to be stronger even though they didn''t have ess to many resources. And the glistening eyes of investors ¡ª who came to know about Han Jiho based on Chancellor Alexander''s words himself ¡ª gazed at Han Jiho whose golden eyes reverted into deep ck. It was the spectacle that will be remembered in this 40th Emergence Anniversary. ... "Hey, Mister, what did you do?" Elizabeth asked Han Jiho who sat on her side. Rumia and Anya were also there except for Samantha. Although they didn''t like unnecessary public appearances, especially with their status in the yer Industry, they went to watch personally the fight between the two of them. "Elizabeth, he seems lost." Rumia said while munching on potato fries imported from her country, Nereia. Han Jiho seemed in a daze as if he didn''t hear what Elizabeth and Rumia said just now. Anya ¡ª who was sitting one seat away from him ¡ª looked at him with bewilderment. "Huh?" Han Jiho replied inquisitively, a veryte response. "Sigh... Hahaha! "Did you hit your head or something?" Elizabethughed as she asked, but she felt that it wasn''t the normal Han Jiho whose personality was inclined toward curiosity about things. This time, he heard clearly as if he was snapped out of his reverie, sending his senses into reality. "Ah, sorry... and thank you." Elizabeth, Rumia, and Anya''s expressions turned serious, their mouth slightly agape with thest word that Han Jiho said as they didn''t say anything that should receive a ''thank you'' response. And without waiting for them to say anything, Han Jiho left as he said he''d have to be somewhere. ... Han Jiho arrived at Chancellor Alexander''s Office in the Obelisk Personnel Building. "Can you exin what''s happening?" Although Alexander''s position was of that a Chancellor, Han Jiho''s voice contained casualness which wasn''t surprising to Alexander''s ears. "I don''t know what you''re talking about." Alexander said casually, making Jiho feel lost. "You opened up to some investors that you rmended me yourself inside the academy. "Which caused some of them to sponsor us... Me, and the daughters of the famous yers, causing us to go into one of the restricted Weaponry Storage. "Then I picked up a sword that looked good in my eyes, but it reacted to me as an owner during my duel against Leon earlier. "Did you arrange for it to happen?" Alexander listened attentively to the inquisitive voice of the student in front of him as he opened a small tray, picked up a cigarette, put it in his mouth then ignited its tip using Mana. After inhaling a cigarette of unknown origin, he looked into Han Jiho''s eyes before he said in a deep voice... "You are overthinking things. "You are the owner of the weapon because you simply possessed it." "Stop thinking about unnecessary things, don''t you have to prepare for your other battleter?" Han Jiho knew that he couldn''t prove anything without any proof so he just confronted Alexander about it. Clenching his fists and with a sigh of resignation, he left without saying a word. ... "Don''t you think it was the right choice?" Scarlet Netherdawn ¡ª who appeared out of nowhere ¡ª asked Alexander as she heard everything Han Jiho said. Alexander arranged for Han Jiho as he indirectly used the daughters of the famous yers to apany him to go in one of the secured weaponry. He was the one to suggested to make a good impression on the parents of the daughters of famous yers. He knew that Han Jiho would choose a certain sword which he undoubtedly picked up. "Sigh... To be honest, his thoughts would be in a mess for a while, but knowing him, he''ll ovee it." Scarlet didn''t disagree with Alexander''s words before she quickly vanished from his office. ... [You have received a mental bacsh.] [An unknown power has erased your memory on how to perform the First Movement: Dawn of Heresy, without any physical bacsh.] [To master the movements of the mysterious swordsmanship, collect the ???.] [Collected ??? Shards: 0/10000] [Collected ??? Fragments: 0/100] Han Jiho imprinted in his mind the System Messages he received after he defeated Leon, but no matter how much he thought about it, his memory of how he did it was erased due to mysterious reasons. Anytime he thought about it, his head seemed to hit a golden light that blocked him from peeking at what was ahead. ''F*ck! What happened?'' He cursed inwardly as he felt lost. But after an unknown period of time, he ¡ª who returned to his dorm room ¡ª stood up from the couch where he sat and then left to return to the Obelisk Grand Stadium. ... ''It was three months in advance.'' Russell remembered what he wrote in his unpublished novel. What happened in Han Jiho in this battle was supposed to happen in three months, during the Ranking of Exchange after the midterm exam. But due to the unexpected Emergence Event of Remembrance, what was supposed to happen, happened earlier. The sword that Han Jiho picked up would be in his possession for a few months before it reacted to him. ''Ah, what a mess.'' Russellmented as he looked absentmindedly in front of him while Freya, Amelie, and Amery were in their own world, talking about random things. ... The dignified womanly voice reverberated in Samantha''s head. "Han Jiho? What do you mean by runaway?" Samantha listened only to the voice in her head before ''She'' became silent again. Chapter 86 Exhibition Battle (2) "This... This is an unprecedented matchup!" The referee, standing in front of the arena in the Obelisk Grand Stadium, silently read the names of the participants this time on the small holographic screen from his smartwatch. "Without further ado, Here I call... "The daughter of the number one yer, Mr. Artorious Hall... Samantha Hall! "And the one who challenge her, the one who defeated Leon earlier this morning... Han Jiho! "This will be the battle between the Rank 5 and Rank 1 of the A-1 ss of first years!" After the entrance of the two notable students, the spectators seemed to go wild as shouts reverberated within the barrier-made roof of Grand Obelisk Stadium. Samantha ¡ª whose auburn ponytail hair resembles her stillness and brownish eyes which seemed to have a vast desert on their own ¡ª looked at Han Jiho on the other end of the arena, devoid of any emotion. Han Jiho responded to her emotionless gaze, waiting for the signal from the referee who had been with them since the start of the Ranking of Exchange. Twenty to thirty secondster, after the referee confirmed the readiness of both participants, he raised his hand and cleaved down the thin air along with the word signaling the start of the battle. ... Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amelie were watching the battle in the middle of the arena as if they forgot to even blink. It was the same case for Elizabeth, Rumia, Anya, as well as Leon who already recovered from the inexplicable sword art that Han Jiho used against him earlier. They were watching with different expressions on their face. Although the two group seats were near each other as there was no seat requirement per ss this time, they focused on what was happening in front of them where Samantha and Jiho used their refined swordsmanship, heating up the momentum of the battle. Both were on offense and defense at the same time, but it''s clear to some eyes who were at the disadvantage. The crowd ¡ª who were wild when the referee introduced the participants ¡ª had their mouths slightly agape, their eyes filled with awe, and some even held their breaths away. ''What a fierce battle.'' Russell muttered in his mind as he watched silently the ongoing bout between Samantha and Jiho. ... [Activating Skill: Light Steps] At this moment, Han Jiho''s speed increased by a slight amount as he rushed towards Samantha who raised her sword diagonally with her right hand with perfect posture, befitting of a true swordsman. ng-! ng-! "Hup-!" Han Jiho lowered his body, aiming for Samantha''s side. ng-! But it got blocked by her by reversing the position of her sword as if she was painting diligently. It was a beautiful move without using any sword art, just refined swordsmanship from the Expert Swordsmanship. Han Jiho realized that Samantha''s swordsmanship reached the highest level in terms of the basics. It was only at this moment he saw her swordsmanship because whenever he, with others, practiced in the Exclusive Public Training Grounds dedicated to A-1 students of first years, he only saw Samantha bashing the training dummy, breaking the training wooden swords with different sturdiness. ''Not good.'' He muttered inwardly as he saw the iing attack from above, then he lowered his body, and leaned it slightly from the side before jumping away from Samantha''s range. Bam-! Samantha''s sword hit the ground, causing some cracks on it as the arena made from M-F-RA or the Mineral Flexible Rocky Alloy was on its rocky form. At this moment, the two came to a standstill, their thoughts were different. ''Should I use it again?'' Han Jiho thought about the First Movement of the mysterious swordsmanship he has, even though he doesn''t remember how to do it anymore as some mysterious power blocked his ability to do so, he, at the very least still recalled what triggered the condition to perform it. It was his trait, ''Will of the Sword'', which helps him adapt to any battle the longer he fights. ... The dignified womanly voice echoed in Samantha''s head as she sized up Jiho who took a distance after he dodged her simple cleave. Samantha replied via some sort of telepathy, and not verbally which would make her appear crazy if seen by others. The dignified womanly voice turned into a tone of sarcasm, but Samantha ¡ª who was used to it ¡ª didn''t react strongly and just silently listened to the babbling of the entity in her head. Samantha asked in her head, causing the voice in her head to turn back its dignity. Samantha smiled inwardly as she heard the response of the entity in her mind. ... Han Jiho looked at Samantha a few meters away from him. ''It''s my chance.'' At this moment, he noticed that she seemed lost in her own world, taking this chance to strike. ''It''s not enough.'' His trait, ''Will of the Sword'', would release its full effect when he fought for a given amount of time, but strangely, his fight against Samanthapared to Leon earlier is now longer at this moment. ng-! ''More! More!'' Han Jiho realized the praises that Elizabeth and the others gave to his opponent at this moment. He felt like he was being toyed with earlier, and right now, he''s being pushed back, losing his momentum in the process. Although he felt within himself that he was adapting against Samantha, it was very slow as if he was being hindered by some kind of power. It''s like his mind was being dyed by something, making him unable to instantly process the subsequent necessary moves. After forcing himself to fight head-on, he finally received numerous System messages, he felt a light of hope illuminating his soul. He''s nning to use again the First Movement of the mysterious swordsmanship if his trait manifests its full effect, causing the sword in his hand to react to him again then granting him the ability to perform the first movement of his sword art without any physical backsh. But his hope turned into a speck of dust the moment he read the System messages. His face turned grim with the inexplicable content of the messages. [Your Trait: Will of the Sword (SSS+) became an Impossibility.] [It was impossible for you to fully utilize your trait at this moment.] [Duration until you can fully utilize your trait again: Cannot be found] ... "What?" Samantha heard Jiho''s low voice, and without giving him a moment to react... Bam-! She vanished from her spot, then smashed the back of her sword to his scalp. It was a solid and clean strike that didn''t break Jiho''s neck, but rather only rendered him unconscious as his body fell, his face facing the ground. Silence enveloped the entirety of the arena, even the referee couldn''t process what happened for a few seconds because for him, it was an unexpected way to lose, especially if the student was within the Top 10 of the A-1 ss, and if the battle started with a fierce exchange. But as a professional, he quickly reined in his thoughts as he enthusiastically announced the winner, sending the mentally lost spectators back to their senses, thus shouts reverberated throughout the whole of Grand Obelisk Stadium. ... After thest exhibition battle from some third-year students, the closing ceremony marking the end of the Emergence Event Remembrance would take ce. Ayleen Mayfield, the model-like teacher of the first-year A-1 ss, stood again in the middle of the Obelisk Grand Stadium where the arena earlier appeared. It transformed into an alloy tform this time. "Thank you to everyone who joined us for five days. "Every country has its own way of celebrating the Emergence Anniversary. "We know that it reminds us of the painful memory... The destruction that struck our world 40 years ago. "But this event also reminds us of the opportunity presented to us. "We are reminded that we cannot bring back what was lost! "But rather we must be encouraged to move forward on what''s in store for us! "I! "Ayleen Mayfield of the Obelisk Organization. "Announce the end of the Emergence Anniversary! "For humanity!" Her serene and firm voice that captivates the hearts of the listeners echoed in the ears of the standing audience across the Grand Obelisk Stadium. "For humanity!" "For humanity!" The voices of the audience seemed to shake the whole stadium as they strongly reverberated, it was a sign of their patriotism. Although each of them had their own interests, because of the threat of the unknown or the unexplored part of the world, they wanted humanity to reach greater heights... Just like an obelisk that would pierce the skies and reach the stars. With this, the end of the Emergence Anniversary took ce. Spotlights were unintentionally granted to some promising students which were eyed by the Guild Scouters and Investors. Investors and Guild Scouters took their next steps for future for the prosperity, and connection to be strengthened. Mediapanies hastily summarized their unique stories to be published and distributed across the countries in the Orion Continent. Some students were stripped of their privileges as others managed to take them away. And just like that, the bluish moon soon appeared in the vast, starry sky. ... Room 38, Rigel Building Russell was standing in front of the door with the card attached atop with the number 38 written on it. The Obelisk staff in charge of clearing and cleaning the dorm were already done with their job even before thest day of the Emergence Anniversary ended. "Hah... This is it." He opened the door and instantly saw his new room as the new student in the A-1 ss. It was the same whenpared to his previous dorm, the difference was the quality of the furniture. His bed was now wider and morefortable, it was the same with the couch. There was the television and wall clock as if the two couldn''t be separated. He walked through the kitchen where he saw the refrigerator that he didn''t have in his previous dorm and the kitchen utensils of great quality hanging near the sink. "Now, this truly feels like home." He remembered his previous life where he became a shut-in, trading stocks of variouspanies all day long. After an unknown period of time of taking out his belongings in his Dimensional Inventory and organizing them, cing them in their right ce, he slumped down on his new bed, feelingfortable as an exhale escaped from his mouth. ''There''s so much space...'' The most notable change was the space in the room. Every piece of furniture including his belongings just upied at least a fourth of the total area of the dorm room. "There''s that, too." He muttered as he recalled the Personal Training Ground which he didn''t really need because he has ess to a better training ground, it also has the same function, if not greater than the Virtual Capsule time difference. It was the Chaos Training Grounds that he could ess with the help of the True Key of Chaos. Russell didn''t choose a butler and two maids to serve him as a privilege given to every A-1 student, but he was given two weeks in any case he changes his mind. Aside from the Obelisk helper assignment, an A-1 student could bring one themselves, and with this option, Russell recalled his journey prior to finding the Hidden Dungeon, ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil''. Then, instead of choosing a butler and two maids from the Obelisk staff to serve him, a ridiculous idea entered his mind. He ns to recruit ''Maya'', the salesclerk of the yer General Store. "Another untouched element." He muttered as he reined in his thought before reaching out for a in purple notebook he ced atop his new study desk. Russell then opened its first page and read again the headline he wrote after realizing the events that happened in the Emergence Anniversary. "Book of Changes" Chapter 87 Book Of Changes The ''Book of Changes'' was something that Russell came up with after witnessing the changes in the original story of his unpublished novel. As the author who wrote the novel, [The Forgotten Swordsman of Ruined Star], for at least three years in his previous life, and as someone who only did it to pass his time while waiting for his stocks result or to let out his imaginations, he couldn''t remember every minor details, but following the chronological events in his unpublished novel, everything woulde back at the back of his head as the time passes when the events starting to unfold one by one. And with the in purple book in his hand, he decided to write the changes or new elements that happened in reality. By doing this, it might help him predict with more precision what might happen in the future that was brought by the forwarded events just like the Ranking of Exchange that should happen after the midterm exam in October, and not in the Emergence Anniversary that just ended. Although there would be another Ranking of Exchange as per the Obelisk''s Curriculum as the way of prospering the maturity of promising yers for the future, there''s a hundred percent certainty that the difference has already been made due to the Ranking of Exchange being done in the Emergence Anniversary. "Sigh... the story is already f*cked up." Russell muttered as he took a ck pen from a small cab under his study desk, and wrote the following in the first few pages of the in purple book that he named as ''Book of Changes''. ~ Book of Changes ~ First Page July 23, 2062 "1. The Seed of Chaos "In the hidden dungeon called the ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil'' where the Goddess of Night''s vision was present, I met ''Her'' personally which would surely killed me if not for ''Her'' barrier that was cast on me. "I still remember ''Her'' slender body and pitch ck hair, as well as ''Her'' deep blue eyes which would be an insult to be evenpared to mine. This passage might seem unnecessary, but I couldn''t help but think about ''Her'' for some inexplicable reason. "My idiocy at that time as I didn''t consider any possible changes brought my interaction with the Goddess of Night that was supposed to be uninterested in the mortal business whom ''She'' viewed as nothing more than insects. "This brought the existence of the mysterious Egg that I didn''t know anything about. "This Egg entrusted to me by the Goddess of Night in exchange for a contract or the mysterious Symbol of Night which gave me a power that seems overpowered... At least at this point in time. "I was then branded in my heart by something called the ''Symbol of Night'' which was painful enough to knock me out during the process of carving it. And when I woke up, I found myself lyingfortably on the ground of the hidden dungeon. "Sometimes I wondered about the way I woke up, did ''She'' put me on ''Her''p or something? Haha! What a ridiculous thought." Russell chuckled at one of the unnecessary passages he wrote before he turned to the second page of the in purple notebook, then he wrote the following words: Second Page "2. Ancient Treasure Chest of Chaos "This treasure chest presumably left by the Goddess ''Herself'' contained items beyond this Post-Emergence World''s imagination. "The items that left a deep impression on me are the dark purple Jar of Nothingness, the dirty white Mask of Night, the two weapons which were the sealed sword and scythe, the keys which turned into a key, then the out of ce three dice which came out from thebination of tainted stuff. Sigh... "Although Growth-type items were very rare and expensive on their own based on the growth or rank limit, I acquired a growth-type sword and scythe whose names were still with question marks. "And thankfully, with a covert interference of a cksmith God, the Constetion, ''One Who Eats Fire For Breakfast'', the weapons'' one function was unlocked called Eater of Power. "But one thing is certain, I need to kill Monsters of Chaos origin for those weapons to grow and their sealed features to be unlocked. "I wonder if the end-game rank I wrote in my unpublished novel is still the same in this world? Well, considering how monstrous it is... I bet it is still the same. "ording to what I remember, at this point in time, the highest grade weapon and armor that humanity possessed is at Mythical. "Normal, Rare, Unique, Legendary, and Mythical... "Ha... It''s in the fifth rank out of ten." Russell stopped writing on the second page of the Book of Changes. ''I just made a very confidential item at this very moment.'' Although he could store the Book of Changes in his Dimensional Inventory, he still needed to be careful because there was a certain type of profession or beings that could directly steal something inside the Dimensional Inventory. A Dimensional Thief and the Cosmos Plunderer. ''Well, I''m confident I won''t encounter them this early in the story, and by the time I might do so, many things would already change, and I just have to be prepared as there are ways to counter or even kill them.'' Russell said firmly in his thoughts as he flipped to the third page of the Book of Changes, then after taking a deep breath, he wrote the title of the third change ording to his experience. Third Page "3. Mira von Obreyon "I don''t know how would she affect the future just like the existence of salesclerk ''Maya'' from the yer General Store. "But one thing is certain... No, I''m not sure anymore... If she will perish in the future." "This is one of the Untouched Elements that might greatly impact the original story... But who am I to say such a thing? I am an anomaly myself..." Russell stopped writing as his mind became clouded causing unnecessary thoughts to start to surface within his head, disrupting his train of thought. He then tore the third page, threw it inside his Dimensional Inventory, and wrote the same thing again on the new third page, but with the exception of the third line he previously wrote, instead, after some thinking, two new lines were added. Third Page "3. Mira von Obreyon "I don''t know how would she affect the future just like the existence of salesclerk ''Maya'' from the yer General Store. "But one thing is certain... No, I''m not sure anymore... If she will perish in the future... "I don''t know if I''d wish for someone to perish for the sake of slightly aligning with the correct story route. "What a simple yetplicated dilemma." A sigh escaped from Russell''s mouth as he ended the third page of Book of Changes withplicated emotion. As someone who experienced killing another person for the first time when some goons intruded on his dorm room under Reinhardt von Apollon''s order just the time after the Banquet of Obelisk, the case was very different whenpared to Mira''s situation. He could kill with a resolve as long as it''s reasonable, especially in self-defense, but when ites to hoping for someone to die, especially with someone like Mira ¡ª who did nothing wrong ¡ª was just outrageous. ''But, time will tell...'' He said inwardly because something about Mira would certainly take ce in the future, and he would just need to consider the necessary actions at that moment in case his and the others'' safety getpromised. ... Fourth Page "4. A certain beautiful woman with gold-rimmed eyesses. "The unnned meeting in the Obelisk Tracking Field brought forth the rtionship I currently have at this moment which caused a chain reaction with others. "But... Ah f*ck. "That certain Close Mystery Tower..." Russell simply ended the fourth page of the Book of Changes with a very heavy emotion as he recalled something in his unpublished novel that would happen in the future. ? It was one of the major events that would greatly change everything. ''If ever that event changes, I''d hope that it wouldn''t bring greater repercussions.'' After scratching his head a few times, he flipped to the fifth page and wrote the fifth change he had in his mind. Fifth Page 5. Chaos Companions "With my encounter with the Goddess of Night, and bing a Mediator of Chaos whatever that is, I was able to give the trio the Chaos trait. "The first one of them became a contractee of the subordinate of the Goddess. "The second one of them was visited in her sleep, causing her to receive a strange dream for a few consecutive days. "And thest one of them was requested by the mysterious Egg to drop out of the academy and just train, and train as if it is the only thing in the world. "These changes simply answer my dilemma... it wouldn''t matter if Mira''s existence brings changes in the future. We just need to adapt to it becausepared to her, these trio already became a part of history that would happen yet in the future." Russell shook his head slightly as a smile of ridiculousness formed on his lips. ... After an unknown period of time, he finished writing every change he noticed as he flipped slowly through the in purple book from the first page, then Russell read with a soft voice the title of the sixth and its subsequent pages. Sixth Page "6. System''s Behavior..." It was about the attitude of the System towards him like the dy notifications, he suspected that the System might be ying with him, or the Goddess was just teasing him. Seventh Page "7. The Two World Announcements..." It was about the time when he grumbled because of the System''ste response and Amelie''s instant growth which caused the mysterious Egg to give him the Fruit of Chaos, but that interaction which was initiated by the mysterious Egg created a ripple that allowed some True Ancient Constetions to feel the mysterious presence in the for a brief moment. Thankfully, with the mysterious nihility, the Egg''s presence felt like an illusion as it even avoided the eyes of True Ancients. Eight Page "8. Fortieth Emergence Anniversary''s Ranking of Exchange Event..." The supposed-to-be conducted after the midterm exam happened too early when Leon challenged Jiho, while Jiho challenged Samantha. "This is it for now..." Russell said in a low voice that still made a bit of reverberation due to the silent environment inside his new dorm room. Just as Russell was about to close the in purple book, he flipped it from the back of the book where countless nk pages were attached. Then, after some time, he wrote something on thest page of the in purple book, although he had no interest in digging deeper into it, he just wrote the following words as a reminder of his identity of the past. "0. My Reincarnation." Chapter 88 Daily Academic Life (1) Monday Morning, the day after the five-day Emergence Event. Russell sat up on his new,fortable bed for a few seconds as soon as he woke up before standing up, stretching his arms and body as though he was like a kid excited about his first school trip. After catching some long and short breaths, he walked to his new kitchen where new kitchenware was lined up through the sink, and the new refrigerator''s coldness could be felt slightly as its vibrating sound, a sign of its functionality, echoed in his ears. After taking out a ready-to-eat breakfast inside the refrigerator, he put it inside a microwave oven before setting up the appropriate timer for it to be heated. Then he brushed his teeth, washed his hair and face for a few minutes, and after resting some time, he reached out on his hanging Obelisk Academy uniform which consisted of navy blue pants and a red maroon polo with one obelisk piercing the sun symbol on its top left, signifying that he''s a first-year student. Reaching out for his ready-to-eat breakfast after heating it up, he wolfed it down as a soft burp escaped from his mouth. "Sigh... Thank you for the food." It was his habit in his previous life that whenever he was alone, after eating, he''d say such a thing as though he was talking in the air. Furthermore, it sometimes helped him to not feel lonely, especially being a shut-in before, he was used to talking to himself. Standing up from his seat, tidying himself up, and confirming that he hadn''t forgotten anything, he left his new dormitory and quickly saw his younger sister in the lobby... But this time, it was the lobby of the Rigel Building and not the Andromeda Building. "Oppa, good morning!" Freya''s lips were curled up. It was a different kind of smile she used to wear as more joyfulness could be seen on it. Russell responded to his younger sister''s smile before the two of them proceeded to take their strides to reach the A-1 ss for the first years. ... Arriving at the A-1 ssroom, numerous eyes were gazing not at just Russell, but at other students who also won the Ranking of Exchange just like Ken Raven. ''Oh, did she win, too? Wait... what the hell?'' As watching the Ranking of Exchange wasn''t a requirement for every student, it means that during the Emergence Event, the student could do whatever they wanted as long as they wouldn''t leave the Obelisk premises. Russell, Freya, and the others didn''t watch everything that happened in that Obelisk Grand Stadium, that''s why Russell''s reaction was that of bewilderment when he saw a new group of students. It was Mira von Obreyon and the trio who were always following her. ''What nonsensical sh*t just happened?'' "Oh, hello, Russell! Good morning!" Mira ¡ª who felt Russell''s gaze ¡ª slightly shouted, greeting him and Freya. Sensing Russell''s confusion, Mira ¡ª from a few seats away ¡ª chuckled before saying to Russell, confirming something. "No, no, It''s only me and Lyn who managed to win by hair''s breadth in the Ranking of Exchange. The two just apanied us to take a look." Russell and Freya arrived early in the ssroom, that''s why Amelie and Amery weren''t there yet, even the others like Elizabeth who seemed to be having a race against time every morning. ''I see... I thought it was her whole group that won.'' "Congrats..." Russell just said sinctly, causing Mira''s lips to curl up as well as Lyn''s. After some time of chattering, the other A-1 students soon arrived, causing the other two in Mira''s group ¡ª who said that they would train harder to be stronger for the next Ranking of Exchange ¡ª to leave. ... 8:00 A.M., Monster Anatomy and Evolution ss. At exactly 8:00 A.M., the door near the teacher''s tform opened, and a man with short ck hair and ckish eyes under his ck retro eyesses walked in with a lofty demeanor like a true schr. It was the schr and researcher researching the mysteries behind the existence or origin of monsters that might be a clue as to why the Emergence took ce. Emmanuel Lyncoster of the Obelisk Institute of the Origin. ... After cing some papers he brought with him on top of the teacher''s table, he ced both his hands on it before he nced around, seeing the new faces that were brought by the Ranking of Exchange. Professor Emmanuel didn''t say anything after ncing around, rather he took out a tablet from his Dimensional Inventory and said to everyone, looking at him with reverence as their teacher. "Alright, Good morning ss. "I already received the list of new students, and I''ll call everyone from the start. "You already know what to do." Just after the Emergence Anniversary Event ended, the personal information of students who participated in the Ranking of Exchange underwent a quick process which also included the transfer of their recorded grades prior to the event. Their respective professors were responsible for it, but with advanced technology, the efficiency of finishing to transfer stuff was verymendable. "Rank 40, Ken Raven" "Present, Sir!" Ken Raven ¡ª who took away from Dexter Orbelle the Rank 40 spot ¡ª enthusiastically replied as he nced around for a few seconds and saw Amery whom he couldn''t defeat in the Disciplinary Trial Exam ¨C Battle Royale. "Rank 39, Mira von Obreyon" "Present, Sir!" Mira ¡ª whosest name was the same as Leon''s ¡ª spoke with a slightly dignified voice. She took away the position of Daven Belrose, the former Rank 39. Leon heard his younger sister''s voice, but he didn''t sweep a nce at her. "Rank 38, Russell Moon." "Sir, Present." Russell said monotonously, but every response given by new students as part of A-1 was garnering unnecessary stares. It was the same case for him, but the old A-1 students only whispers and tried not to say anything aloud because of the presence of the professor. Freya, sitting beside him as theirst name is the same, chuckled. "Rank 37, Lyn Reya." "Present, Sir." It was one of Russell''s ssmates in his former ss, A-11, along with Mira. ... "Rank 34, Tanya Drusi." "Present, Sir." It was the woman with red hair and yellowish eyes that was clingy with Han Jiho during the Virtual War in the Cemetery of Oblivion virtual battleground. She was the first to be eliminated which triggered early the way to solve the mystery of Cemetery of Oblivion. "Rank 31, Amelie Rose Merveil." ... "Rank 29, Brynn Drake." ... "Rank 27, Amery Blight." ... "Rank 26, Freya Moon." ... "Rank..." ... "Rank 23, Murktan Khan" "Present, Sir!" It was one of the teammates of Rumia during the Virtual War activity against Elizabeth. He had Bhaskan origins as he came from the Southern Orion, Land of the Desert, Bhaskara. "Rank 22, Marokh Lhan." It was the another tanker-type of Bhaskan origin that was under Elizabeth''s group, during the Virtual War, that fought Murktan head-on. "Rank 21, Henriad Frostine." The Winter Ranger from Arka, Land of the Ice, who was stabbed by Elizabeth from behind, resulting in his early elimination during their Virtual War activity. "Rank 20, Dessa Deya." ... "Rank 19, Ba Icyry." ... "Rank 18, Rika Snow." ... "Rank 17, Celine Cello-ana." ... "Rank 16, Arash Hood." ... "Rank 15, Arist Stallion." ... "Rank 13, Markin Arhn." ... "Rank 12, Ethera Crimson." ... "Rank 9, Erina von Elydine." ... "Rank 8, Celiya von Elydine." ... "Rank 7, Tyrion von de Prion." ... "Rank 6, Leon von Obreyon." ... "Rank 5, Han Jiho." ... "Rank 4, Rumia Flora." ... "Rank 3, Anya Amasawa." ... "Rank 2, Elizabeth von Etherion." ... "Rank 1, Samantha Hall." "Present, Sir." ... "Alright, that should be it. Congrattions to the new students for pushing themselves toe this far early in the academy. It''s the same for those who maintain or defend their ranks. "Anyway, let''s go straight to our activity for today." As soon as Professor Emmanuel said that, the stacks of paper flew in front of each student with the snap of his fingers. "As our subject is Monster Anatomy and Evolution, I''d like to ask for your opinions regarding the various theories listed in the paper. "Take note that this activity is mostly based on your opinion, and I''d be honest with you, that whatever you write on that might trigger some enlightenment with our esteemed researchers in the Obelisk Institute of the Origin... which includes myself. "Take a look at the activity paper. "The first part consists of knowledge that you might already know of, but just answer it the way you know it. "The second part consists of the theories regarding the monster''s evolution. "And thest part is just a bonus question, but I hope you answer it as concisely as possible. "Alright, you have one hour to answer. Start now." ... pAn,Da-n0v e1,c Russell skimmed through the activity paper that was more like a nursing or psychology exam, then he caught wind of thest part or bonus question as he read through it. * Bonus Question (5 points) "Why was it that Ms. Ayleen Mayfield was the one who presided over the Emergence Anniversary Ceremony, and not the Vice-Chancellor or the Chancellor himself?" Russell then wrote the answer below the paper. "Because she is known as the youngest SS+ rank in the human domain at the age of 27 which unconsciously brings inspiration to the youth that they might be just like her in the future." Russell knew what to write because it was his idea in his unpublished novel, but he never thought that it would appear as a part of an activity. He restrained himself tough, but a smile still formed on his lips which didn''t go unnoticed by his younger sister who looked at him like he was being crazy. After quickly finishing the Bonus Question, Russell started from the beginning. First Part Question 1: "What''s the difference between the Magic Stones and Monster Core?" Answer: "Magic Stones can be found on simple mobs while the Monster Core can be found on Boss Monster." ... Question 2: "As humans evolved with the consolidation of Mana, some animals did, too which wereter called Monster Beasts that exist outside the Strayed Dungeons or Dungeon Towers. "Do you think bing ferocious was the only behavioral effect they received with the abundance of Mana?" ''This sneaky question.'' Russell thought as he took a nce in the front where Professor Emmanuel was sitting, fidgeting with his smartwatch. After pondering for some time, he wrote the following answer: "I think so." It was a sinct, ambiguous answer that didn''t have any exnation. He considered it a sneaky question for him as the author who knew about the true case which hasn''t been discovered yet. Advanced satellites that humans made Post-Emergence didn''t manage to revolve around the world as there were forces that destroyed them after passing a certain point, that''s why the higher-ups of humanity knew deep down that there might be threats lurking on the other side of the world which became seven times its original diameter. ''There are animals that gained intelligence living outside the Orion Continent, but I''d be an idiot to write that confidently as if it is the natural thing.'' After taking short breaths, he quickly finished answering the first part, but he didn''t manage to answer everything because he either know too much or didn''t know it at all. ''That''s why I''m taking the General Overall System Theories...'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he recalled the Elective subject he was taking with Han Jiho to gain some general knowledge considered for stupid people. He took a nce at Han Jiho''s seat and saw him scratching his head as if his head was about to erupt because he didn''t know anything. Russell chuckled at the sight before proceeding to read the second part of the exam which was about theories. Second Part Question 1: "ording to the Theory of Mana Sentience, Mana has its own signature within one''s body, that''s why a person needed a special way or specific profession to pass on Mana to another body. But with it being inconvenient and not wise in situations, Mana Potions were created. "Do you think Mana is acting like DNA?" Russell frowned at the question before he wrote the answer: "No, it''s just that the human body, like a container, cannot handle too much Mana because it will simply but dangerously overflow." Chapter 89 Daily Academic Life (2) Professor Emmanuel Lyncoster probably put the question to test the students'' ideas and gain some insight about the Theory of Mana Sentience which states that Mana has different signatures just like different emotions that one body could not possess at the same time, although it was somewhat simr with the DNA imprint that identifies a person, it was somehow different because Mana does not identify the person''s specific identity unlike the DNA of a human or even animals. Even though Professor Emmanuel was already a schr and a researcher, he doesn''t view himself as someone superiorpared to others when ites to intelligence, rather he respects others'' opinions and ideas that might help him go further in his research. He wasn''t consumed by how critically he thought to the point of mocking others because aside from wanting to discover the mysteries behind the urrence of Emergence, he wanted humanity to strive more and achieve great things for future generations where absolute prosperity wasn''t set in stone. ''One can say that he''s a true patriot of humanity.'' Russell thought inwardly as the duration of the activity just ended. The papers in front of the students floated and reached the teacher''s table with a fast speed as Professor Emmanuel organized them and skimmed through them. He quickly read everyone''s work as if he was just flipping through everything, but the truth was that he already managed to read every single one of them thoroughly. It was one of his exclusive skills which allowed him to read and digest information faster: Seeking Eye (S+). Its main purpose was to seek knowledgeid in front of him. Although with the help of this skill, he could process everything as if the information wanted to be a part of the past, it doesn''t mean that he knows everything he read through as new pieces of a puzzle born after new information. It repeats the cycle until a bottleneck was reached. It was just a few seconds after the activity ended, then ncing at the students, Professor Emmanuel spoke formally. "I''ll send you the result of your activityter. "But first, I''d like to ask a rted question that anyone can answer and this question will be credited to your grades in my subject as long as your answer makes sense. "If you want to answer, just raise your hand. "Alright... Students... Do you think it is possible for a human or even animals to have the flu again? If so, why?" The students seemed confused by Professor Emmanuel''s question because ever since the Emergence happened, every disease of the Old World even cancer vanished in the rivers of history which stayed in the illusory World of the Past after the human physique and immune system were greatly strengthened. There''s no record of any Old World disease anymore happening in the Post-Emergence era. The only diseases that existed at this time were rted to Mana like Mana Vibration which felt like the Mana inside a person''s body was vibrating, causing dizziness, but it was only a side effect of traversing with a space-type skill just like Elizabeth''s Macro-Teleportation. Aside from Mana Vibration, there''s also Mana Poisoning which separates Mana''s signature entered another''s body. One way to contract this was by exposing one''s body to a minuscule amount of Chaos Aura that was emitted by Monsters after being killed inside a Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Tower. That''s pretty much the diseases that exist in this era. ... Silence has overtaken the atmosphere in the A-1 ss as no one opened their mouths to answer because the question seemed rhetorical, but at the same time was not. ''I guess the time for that is near...'' Russell thought as he recalled that the influence of the Constetions would soon be slightly strengthened. "Yes, Samantha?" Russell was snapped out of his thoughts as he heard Professor''s voice addressing Samantha who raised her hand. Samantha ¡ª who was sitting in the right-middle of the ss ¡ª stood up and looked at Professor Emmanuel before she casually spoke. "Sir, I believe it is still possible for us to catch the flu again because even though we advanced so much in 40 years, it still wasn''t enough to know and conclude everything. Mana might be more consolidated in the future, causing the bacteria that causes flu before to be further strengthened." Everyone looked at Samantha with different expressions; mostly of awe, but some were pondering her answer. ''She''s half-right, half-wrong. But where did she get that idea?'' Russell pondered a little as he casually pinched his right cheek with his right index finger. "Thank you for your reasonable answer. That''s all for today." Professor Emmanuel left the ssroom as if he was chasing something. ''It seems like he realized something...'' Russell thought as the next professor came in after a few minutes. ... After a short break, Professor Eric Romer of the A-1 ss entered the ssroom. He has a fitted body build meant for exploration. He has brownish short hair, brownish eyes, and a slightly small nose. He''s the famous explorer who was known as the one who first discovered the existence of Strayed Dungeons and Dungeon Towers on the lowest level that was shadowed by gigantic Dungeon Towers ¡ª High, and Peak Dungeon Towers. "Good morning, ss. "By the way, congrattions to the new A-1 students, and the old students who defended their ranks. "The Obelisk Organization hopes you can continue to grow because life as a yer in the industry is nowhere near as easy as studying here." Professor Eric said casually, but the point he was making was absorbed by the students. It just means that one''s responsible for himself after graduating, leaving the Obelisk Academy, and getting a yer License. Although the opportunity to join a guild after being an Obelisk graduate was higher than adventurers who didn''t go or finish their yer studies, it doesn''t mean that the guild one might join was fair enough. An Obelisk graduate must be practical and know his value to avoid falling into an unfair contract. "Anyway, I have some matters to attend to so I''ll just leave you an assignment. "Answer the following in the file that I just sent you. That''s all. "ss dismiss." After tapping something on a tablet he was holding, Professor Eric Romer left the ssroom. At that time, everyone received a file in their Personal Obelisk ount under the section of the subject that Professor Eric handles: Dungeon Geographical System (DGS) ''He''s a busy man.'' Russell thought inwardly as he nced at the entrance of the ssroom where Professor Eric just disappears from. He knew the job of Professor Eric as the author of a certain unpublished novel. Almost every day there''s a reported Strayed Dungeons or Ruins discovered by adventurers across the Orion Continent. They were the kind of adventurers who value their lives that instead of exploring something they couldn''t understand themselves, they would first report it to the authorities, but sometimes there were bunches who were blinded by money and ventured deep into exploration causing idents. After reining in his thoughts, Russell took a nce at the time on his smartwatch and saw that it wasn''t even ten minutes had passed since Professor Eric came in and left after giving them an assignment. "Oppa, I have something to tell you that I forgotst time." Freya, sitting beside him, on his right side, said in a soft voice while she stretched her arms up as if her sleepiness hasn''t subsided yet. "Alright, let''s grab some breakfast first." He looked at Amelie ¡ª who was sitting beside Freya as the first letters of theirst names start with the letter ''M'' ¡ª silently asking her about what her ns were. Amelie just nodded before she suggested with curled-up lips: "Why don''t we go to Russell''s new dorm, Freya?" "Right, right! ... Amery!" Freya called Amery with slight excitement. Amery, sitting near the front as herst name starts with the letter ''B'', looked behind her when she heard Freya''s voice before she cocked her head to the side. Freya approached her because she felt that Amery won''t do so, then after a few seconds of strides, Freya ¡ª who reached Amery''s seat ¡ª asked her if she wanted toe to Russell''s new dorm. Amery nodded, maintaining her front aloof atmosphere. ... ''Of course, they''d flock in here.'' Russell inwardly said as he looked at the trio taking their seats inside his new dorm room. They didn''t manage to apany him yesterday when he arrived at his new dorm room because it was already at night and there was a ss tomorrow, they said that it''s better to visit tomorrow. "Oppa, the only thing that is different here is the things provided by the academy, but your room still is nd as it is." Freya looked around the new spacious dorm room where the size became at least 6 times of Russell''s former dorm. Aside from new furniture, refrigerator, and kitchenware, nothing changed. "Well, you know me, I don''t need unnecessary designs." In his previous life, as a shut-in stock trader and writer, his apartment room only had things that he needed, he didn''t even have a television before because his twoputers were open almost 24/7. "By the way, I''ll make something first." Russell said, letting the trio do whatever they wanted, as he went to the kitchen to make some bacon sandwich. ''I gotta say, with the help of Mana, livestock became healthy.'' Russell thought after he washed his hands before putting some strips of bacon between two pieces of bread. Although even animals evolved after the Emergence because of the world''s Mana consolidation, not all of them turned into Monster Beasts, rather with diseases gone, there were no more rejected livestock that was meant to just be thrown away. Of course, unlike humans and other intelligent races, animals don''t have the System even though Mana entered their bodies which caused them to be immune to diseases and their physique slightly strengthened, but when ites to Monster Beasts, their physique and strength changed drastically and caused their instincts to establish their territory that sometimes adventurers crossed over, causing for a fight to ensue. ... "That looks so good, Oppa!" The hungry Freya said as her deep blue eyes slightly glistened while her fists clenched, waiting to wolf down the bacon sandwich that Russell ced on the new, long, rectangr table. "Enjoy yourselves." The trio each took a bacon sandwich, and after a few minutes had passed, Russell started the conversation as he sat on his bed, and leaned his back on the wall while one of his feet was on the ground. "Freya, what''s your concern?" Freya looked at Russell after she drank a mouthful of cold water before she said in a curious tone. "You see, Oppa, I still don''t understand everything after reading a few times the Star Quest and the new skills I acquired after a contract. "Anyway, Oppa, can I filter my Status Window and show it to the Star Quest Party?" Russell nodded at his younger sister''s words. One of the advantages of a party, especially a Star Quest Party was sharing information without the use of any Status Appraisal Skills. The yers in a party could filter their information to only show what they wanted. This time, Freya showed everyone the Unique Skill she acquired. [Death''s Call (MAX - Amplified)] You will gain control over the dead within a specific area. Rank: Unholy Cost: 3,000 Chaos Mana, Life Force Effects: - Summon a random Nether Creature from the Nether Realm to assist the Death Executioner under the authority of the Ruler of Death. - This summon creature will permanently apany the user until it dies. - You are able to summon 7 (+7) Nether Creatures. ... Russell and Amelie knew already about Freya''s skill because they had the ability to peek at her Status Window, although it was quite rude. But the three of them trust each other. Amery ¡ª who didn''t have a Status Appraisal Skill ¡ª had her eyes slightly dted with what she just read. Her only change was that she was granted a Chaos Trait with the help of the Chaos Buff that Russell has, giving her an additional 150 overall stat, ess to the Chaos Training Grounds, and Nihility trait. She also received the same title that Amelie and Freya received after receiving the trait of Chaos: [Secret Bearer of Chaos] - You have been chosen to be a panion'' of the Mediator of Chaos which will be beneficial to your growth. Rank: EX Effects: - Growth Rate increased by two times. - You are restricted to tell the secrets you have seen or will see without the Mediator of Chaos'' permission. Upon betrayal or hostility¡­ do not think about the consequences that will befall. ... Russell pondered a little before he asked his younger sister. "Did you receive anything from your Constetion?" "Ah! Right, here..." Freya recalled what she forgot because she was upied with processing the Star Quest and her new skills. Then, she shared the item information of what she acquired. [Ne with the Living Eye.] [Treasure Box with the Living Eye.] "I think these items are the ones that were held by my Constetion. "Wait, let''s check it." Freya was just about to grab the items in her Dimensional Inventory when she heard her older brother say in an alert tone, at the same time, Russell grabbed her hand. "No, No, No! Stop!" Chapter 90 Nether Realm (1) The trio wore a look of confusion with Russell''s sudden action, but Freya listened to what her older brother said as she stopped herself from getting the items in her Dimensional Inventory. To answer the confusion behind his action, Russell heaved a sigh of relief before he spoke as if the anxiety just passed by. "It''s dangerous to take out an item, especially an artifact that came from your Constetion." "What do you mean, Oppa?" Amelie and Amery only listened to what the siblings were talking about as their eyes possessed curiosity. "Do you know why your profession as Death Executioner isn''t a unique one because of the existence of others like you in other races?" Freya recalled what she was going to askter on, but Russell asked her instead. She shook her head, waiting for her older brother''s words. "Because your Constetion''s aura of death is very strong... so strong that ''He'' assigned a Death Executioner to every race to do the job of cating or giving rest to the wandering souls, because if ''He'' is the one to do it, which ''He'' technically can, the souls will immediately die just because of ''His'' presence and aura. "I believe ''He'' used something on you when you met ''Him'' before that''s why you didn''t die, but that''s because of the artifact you just received which contained ''His'' aura, too. "And based on the items you received from him, it contained an aura of ''Him'', an aura of death. Although it says that with Chaos in one''s body, we wouldn''t be affected because it''s only a miniscule amount, what about the students that might be in their dorms next to me as of this moment?" Freya''s eyes widened as she listened attentively, digesting every piece of information she heard from her older brother''s mouth. It''s the same with Amery and Amelie. It means that she was about to inadvertently cause an ident by taking out the items she received. Goosebumps spread all over her body with the realization that hit her head. Cold sweat seemed to form on her scalp before she apologized to her older brother. "No, don''t worry about it. Alright, you can take it out if we go to the Chaos Training Grounds." Amery''s ears perked up when she heard Russell''s words but she maintained her bearing just to listen and not to ask anything. "Anyway, back to your previous question, your unique skill: Death''s Call states that you can have control over the dead in a specific area, but its effect is to summon a Nether Creature. "Kind of confusing if you think about it unterally." Freya nodded because her unique skill''s description ¡ª controlling the dead within a specific space ¡ª wasn''t aligned with its effects ¡ª summon a Nether Creature. "What''s a Nether Creature, Oppa?" Freya then asked, curious about what she''d summon if she uses the skill. "It''s a being from the Nether Realm." ''Ask it!'' Russell said inwardly, waiting for Freya to ask what or where was the Nether Realm so that he could lighten up the mood because he knew that Freya still felt responsible for nearly causing an ident, even though it was prevented just at the right time. He''s just d that Freya forgot about it before and didn''t take it out without his presence. ''We''d get f*cked if that happens.'' After a few seconds, Freya asked about the Nether Realm, about what it was, or where it was located. Russell then grinned before saying: "Nether Realm is like the Hell that we know about, but somewhat different. That''s where some souls of any race go when they die if they weren''t contracted with a Constetion. "Well, that''s just about it, but Nether Creatures are beings that are born from that ce. That''s all I know." Russell wasn''t sure what the beings in that ce he described in his unpublished novel looked like in reality. "I hope my Constetion gives me some knowledge, too." Amelie interjected, causing Russell to frown slightly because she just indirectly said that Russell''s knowledge was assumed that they came from the Goddess of Night. "Anyway, about its location... It''s where we are right now." Russell said in a serious tone, but inside he felt likeughing because he knew that Freya was a scaredy cat when they were kids when ites to supernatural elements. It''s ironic that she was chosen to be one of the Death''s Executioners. "What!?" Freya reacted with a firm voice. Amery slightly flinched, while Amelie''s eyes formed into glistening stars as if she''de across again with another umon event. "You know, we can check it out right now. "Technically, you''re the only one who can ess it because of your profession, but as part of the Star Quest Party, we can go with you." The trio wasn''t ready for the sudden suggestion that came out of Russell''s mouth. But Amelie''s excitement soared up, while Amery seemed confused about everything as she remained quiet. "H-how, Oppa?" Freya asked as she stuttered, feeling anxious with the sudden suggestion. "Haha, it will be better if we can goter, not right now when there''s still ss in the afternoon. "But, as an advance warning, whatever you see in that ce, don''t look at them in the eye for more than 2 seconds unless you have something like Freya''s profession." He said, ncing at Amery and Amelie. Even after bing the Mediator of Chaos, he wasn''t sure if the Goddess would protect him in that ce because he thought that whatever the reason the Goddess chose him, it was not because he wasn''t receable. Although it was still confusing him sometimes when he thought about it while being alone, he took note to himself that he must not entrust his protection to the Goddess of Night. ''There''s so much that''s happening early in the story.'' He thought inwardly as he recalled the unpublished novel he wrote in his previous life. Even though what was happening wasn''t directed to the main characters he wrote, it would certainly influence the future. "Alright, Oppa." Russell was snapped out of his thoughts with Freya''s words before he asked if there was any more concern. "Oppa, I don''t think it''s necessary right now because we surely can''t do anything about it, but this is the list and information about the three names that the mysterious Egg gave me before... After eating the Fruit of Chaos." Freya said as she browsed the System before sharing the information with everyone. ''Speaking of that, the System screwed me again. F*cking hell.'' Russell recalled that eating the Fruit of Chaos, ording to its description, would strengthen the mysterious Symbol of Night carved in his heart, but unfortunately, the Systemter notified him that he needed to eat the whole fruit and not share it for it to take effect. In the end, the one he received was the bonus stat and the strengthening of his Nihility trait due to the blessing of the mysterious Egg. After recalling what happened that time, he reined in his thoughts before he browse the details that his younger sister shared with them. Russellughed boisterously when he read the information, causing Freya, Amelie, and Amery to look at him with unknown expressions because they too didn''t know what reactions they should have. Russell read again the information that Freya shared through the Star Quest Party. ... [Information regarding the Death Executioners that are corrupted and abused the power lent to them.] 1. Heretic of Nature - Rakshana Race: Dark Elf Rank: SS+ Location: Elnira Kingdom (in hiding) 2. Blood Addict - Cassius Crimson Race: Vampire (Marquis) Rank: SSS- Location: Close Mystery Tower ¨C Tower of ??? ¨C ??? Floor 3. The Chained Giant - Urg''r Mor Race: Giant Rank: Fallen Lumen (Ex-Constetion) Location: Earth''s Core 342''s Core) ... "Yep, we really can''t do anything about it right now. Hahaha." Russell calmed down but hisugh contained helplessness at the moment. Amelie and Amery stared at the information shared with them for some time... it was especially because of the number 3... A ridiculous and nonsense rank, as well as the location where it''s presumably imprisoned. The excited expression on Amelie''s face was erased as she seriously thought of something based on the information that Freya shared. It was the strength of future enemies that they would encounter, also the location of Urg''r Mor. It was a very dangerous location that might affect the Earth''s rotation. Neo-Geological Engineering hasn''t advanced to the point that humanity could drill a hole in the earth that deep, it means that it''s unknown what''s deep under the world. ''It''s been 40 years and there are still many mysteries.'' Amelie thought poignantly, but she swore to herself that she would apany them on their journey as they are everything to her at this moment. "Anyway, let''s finish the assignment that Sir Eric gave." Amelie reined in her thoughts because they knew they couldn''t do anything about Freya''s Star Quest at the given moment. Russell, Freya, and Amery just nodded and managed to finish whatever assignment was given to them earlier. ... Mana Theory ss The professor with tinum hair, purple eyes, and a kind of body that men desire stood in front of the ss as she greeted everyone, congratted the new A-1 students, andmended the students who fought and maintained their position in A-1 ss. "I''m Ayleen Mayfield, in any case, the new ones don''t know me." Her captivating voice reverberated in the ssroom. ''Is there a person here who doesn''t know you?'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he looked at the model-like professor. "Anyway, as our ss is about the Mana Theory, I hope everything that you''ve been taught previously hasn''t left the back of your head. "This time, I''ll discuss various new theories that you might have or have not read in a book or already heard from somewhere." After Professor Ayleen Mayfield spoke, she fidgeted with the tablet she was holding before tapping a function that caused a huge rectangr holographic screen to appear in the front of the ss. "Alright ss, ording to Sir Devin de Arc, a Mana Researcher with a Scientist profession, Mana already existed even before the Emergence happened, but this amount of Mana just barely kept the world afloat as it flows in nature, but after the Emergence where other races appeared from other parts of the Great Universe, Sir Devin theorized that it''s not necessarily because of other races existence that Mana consolidated in our world, but rather when the Warps opened, the Mana from their worlds also entered our world. "Please refer to the simple concept shown in the holographic screen." Everyone in the ss read silently what was written to absorb the knowledge. ... [Sir Devin de Arc, World''s Centripetal Force Mana Theory.] Earth''s Mana Pre-Emergence ¨C Doesn''t affect living organisms. Earth''s Mana Post-Emergence ¨C Does affect the living organisms. Other Races Mana Post-Emergence ¨C Doesn''t affect the inhabitants of Earth because the Mana were inside their bodies. Other Worlds'' Mana ¨C The cause of consolidation of Mana in the Earth that affects living organisms. Other Worlds'' Mana ¨C Starting Point Simple hypothesis: After the Constetion, ''Warper of Space'' randomly opened multitudes of warps across the Earth, the Other Worlds'' Mana was swept on it and entered the Earth, causing Mana abundance. ... Russell smiled while reading the lesson presented because he knew that Sir Devin de Arc was correct in his theory. ''I really am a cr*p author in my previous life.'' Russellmpooned himself as the reality presented to him made him realize that the details in his unpublished novel were either total bullsh*t whenplete information wasn''t written or even left behind or somehow genius when he exerted a great effort in writing a certain concept just like what was being discussed. ''It''s nice to remember the detailsing from another''s tongue.'' Russell said inwardly as he continued to listen to Professor Ayleen''s discussion. ... A few hours of good lesson felt like a few minutes if the student enjoyed listening. The sses ended a few hours ago, Russell, Freya, and the duo, after eating their dinner, prepared to begin their journey in the Nether Realm. Chapter 91 Nether Realm (2) "Oppa, I''m ready." Freya said firmly after she let out a long breath, then she nced at Amelie and Amery who nodded their heads, signifying that they, too, are also ready. "Alright, ording to your Unique Skill: Death''s Call, you''ll have control over the dead within a specific area, but that''s not the effect of the skill. "It means that there might be Nether Creatures standing from where we are right now, we cannot see them because they''re not in the Physical World, and their status is ''dead'', even though they''re inhabitants of the Nether Realm." Russell said what he recalled in his unpublished novel. "By the way, let''s hold to Freya''s shoulders because as a Star Quest Party, that''s one of the ways we can go with her." Amelie and Amery listened and did what Russell told them. He then too, put one of his hands on his younger sister''s shoulder. "Now, use your skill, Death''s Call." Freya trusts her older brother''s words as she activated her Unique Skill. At that moment, notifications entered the ears of the four of them. It''s their Nihility trait concealing the power of Chaos that seeps out of Freya''s body. Then, after a few seconds, the System''s message entered their sight. [The leader of the Star Quest Party has activated the Unique Skill: Death''s Call.] [The power of the Nether Realm has reacted with the use of the Unique Skill.] [The Death Executioner''s identity has been granted entry within a specific area of the Nether Realm.] [The Star Quest Party Members: Russell Moon, Amelie Rose Merveil, and Amery Blight has also been granted entry to the specific area because of Freya Moon''s authority as one of the Death Executioners.] [Your Star Quest Party has arrived at the specific area called Region of Oblivion.] [Warning! Thepanions of Death Executioner, Freya Moon, must stay close to her within at least 10 meters, or else thepanions might be lost.] ... Their visions of Russell''s dorm room vanished as if reality flipped its side. What they saw was a vast, abstract, ruinnd as if it was a painting, but the color of the environment fell into the category of dimness. The sky was colored gray and ck while a colossal Moon was hanging above the dim sky. Its color was abination of crimson, purple, and darkness. There were no glistening stars that could be seen unlike from Earth. There were no trees, but only ruined structures whose architecture was something that could be seen in pre-Emergence Earth. There was some castle of different designs, and there were houses whose roofs were basically nonexistent, but its design was something that not a human being made because some houses were nted... floating midair. Beings were roaming... it was a sign of life... no, ''dead,'' because they were the only ones alive in this ce. Although some existence was far from them, some already noticed them, but due to Freya''s identity, harm didn''te to them. Freya nced around and saw a gigantic ruined castle from afar, on top of the spire, a headless woman wearing a deep ck regal dress that have a small symbol depicting a Scythe culling a seemed like an illusory head was carved on its near right shoulder. Then, when she scrutinized the whole appearance of the headless woman, floating above one of the ruined castles, Freya''s scalp turned cold as she felt an inexplicable sense of horror at the sight a few meters away from her. It was because the headless woman''s two hands were holding two simr heads by the slightly long hair... heads whose eyes were blinking, looking at her straight in the eyes. These heads, though the same in appearance has quite different features. The head on the headless woman''s right hand has purple eyes and tinum hair while the one on the left has crimson eyes and blonde hair. That wasn''t everything as Freya saw an eye whose color corresponds to the eyes of the head she was holding by the hair at the back of each hand of the headless woman. ''What the hell is that!?'' She quickly looked away, even though she was a Death Executioner, she did what her older brother told her which meant specifically for Amelie and Amery... Not to look at any being more than two seconds. ... "O-Oppa, w-what''s next?" Freya''s soft voice which contained a hint of anxiety entered the ears of Russell. Amelie and Amery looked at him, too as they didn''t take a step from the moment they arrived because they didn''t know where to go. "We won''t be able toe back." Russell said with a straight face. "What did you say?" This time, it was the aloof Amery who was maintaining her silence all the time that spoke in a concerned manner. Amery looked at Russell with a disbelief expression, but somehow she felt like something was amiss. Freya felt like crying at her older brother''s words. "Oppa, w-what do you mean?" "Hahaha! I''m kidding, it''s a half-truth, though." "Pak-!" Russellughed before he received a slight smack on his head from his younger sister. "...Sorry, I know you''d be scared, but the effects of Death''s Call say that it summons a Nether Creature. "I think you need a Nether Creature for us to leave this ce. "By how to get it, I don''t know, maybe talk to them?" Hisst sentence caused Freya''s eyes to dte as she remembered the headless woman floating on top of the spire just now. ''Talk to them? Talk... Talk...'' Freya''s mind entered a nk state as if her soul left her body when the words of her older brother finally registered on her cognitive domain. ... The ruined area called the Region of Oblivion almost contained no Nether Creatures aside from the ones who owned a seemed like a dpidated castle. "I know you''re scared... But do you know why your profession is called Death''s Executioner when your main job is to cate and send some souls to their rest? "It''s because it''s not as easy as you think. Even though Nether Creatures are friendly to Death Executioners, it doesn''t mean that they''d submit to you as most of them, if not all, are probably stronger than us here. "And the wandering souls that you''d need to cate and send to eternal rest might be under the corruption or possession of Evil Spirits for various reasons. "Remember that Nether Creatures have their own free will even though they''re under the rule of the Ruler of Death. "Unless you''re strong enough to subjugate a Nether Creature, you need to talk to them to be your familiar. Don''t worry, I think they''re not hostile unless you show malice first." Freya listened attentively to her older brother as they took small steps, striding towards what Freya thought would be a cooperative, but her heart started to race as their pacing shorten the distance between them and the Nether Creature they were currently approaching. Any other Nether Creatures that she saw were either more bizarre than the headless woman floating atop the spire of her presumably ruined castle or creepy enough that Freya haven''t even considered looking for another second after she inadvertently nced around. After an unknown period of time, they arrived at the front entrance of a small castle. Freya was the only one who looked up while Russell, Amelie, and Amery didn''t dare to. "H-hello!?" Freya said in a slightly loud, polite tone while her eyes darted around as she looked up, still avoiding eye contact with the headless woman, holding two heads with a simr face, but with some difference in facial features. "Uhmm... C-can I ask a question...?" She asked politely, but this time, she tried topose herself to look straight at the head on each hand of the headless woman. Unfortunately, her fear didn''t subside, rather she felt that she was about to lose her mind. At that moment, Russell pats his younger sister''s shoulder while feeling apologetic inside. Freya looked at her older brother who nodded his head before she took a long breath a few times before calming herself down. "I-I''m one of the appointed Death Executioners under the Rul-" "...Child..." "...we know you..." The twin-like heads spoke almost at the same time the same words. Their voice sounded like a static that seemed to scratch the depths of Freya, Russell, and the duo''s souls as chills run down their spines. Thud-! Thud-! Thud-! "W-what...?" Russell, Amelie, and Amery''s body who''s standing side by side with her suddenly copsed as they lost consciousness. Freya was lost in her thoughts as she didn''t know what to do with the sudden circumstance. "...Worry..." The head with blonde hair and crimson eyes on the headless woman''s left hand spoke, then the other one on the right, the head with tinum hair and purple eyes, took her chance to follow up. "...Do not... as they only fell asleep..." "...Inexperience..." "...Indeed, she is... she really is..." The two heads spoke alternatively as if having a casual conversation with each other. "...Item..." "...Item... Item... from Death." ''Item...'' Freya suddenly realized what the two heads were talking about as she thought about how inexperienced she was. ''We''re not on Earth.'' Freya said inwardly as she tried to calm herself down while ncing intermittently with the trio lying on the ground made from unknown soil and rocks. Then, she took out one of the items that the Ruler of Death had bestowed on her when she became a Death Executioner for the Human Domain. ... [Ne with a Living Eye] An artifact of the Ruler of Death that rules over the Nether Realm even before the first-second ticked-tock in the Great Universe. This is an exclusive item for a Death Executioner. Rank: Unholy ssification: Artifact (Bound) Effects: 1. Envelopes the wearer and anyone near the wearer with the miniscule ''Aura of Death'', which gives immunity against the pressure or powers of Nether Creatures. The immunity is only in effect if the wearer is a Death Executioner or apanion of the Death Executioner. 2. Upon wearing, the wearer will be able to see the souls of living beings with the wearer''s naked eyes. 3. Upon wearing, the wearer will be able to interact with souls in the Soul Realm, the realm where the souls wander aimlessly before being sent to the Nether Realm, Heaven''s Sanctuary, or [ssified]. 4. Dead or Alive ¨C this effect will grant the wearer a choice to change his or her body status. Alive ¨C the wearer will simply remain alive. Dead ¨C the wearer that activates this effect will be a Nether Creature or Undead. pA n,dan(-)0ve1.c0m The ''Dead'' effect can be activated through the wearer''s thoughts. 5. When the wearer bes an Undead due to the ''Dead'' effect, the wearer will be able tomunicate with every Nether Creature more proficiently and peacefully. ... Freya didn''t take out the Treasure Chest with a Living Eye because ording to its description, it''s practically a treasure that''s meant for her and not an artifact to be used at this moment. She gained slight confidence as she took another long breath upon wearing the old-looking ne with a ck tainted with crimson eye posing like a jewel, but this eye was blinking intermittently while ncing around randomly... Anyone who might see it with their own two eyes would certainly feel a great sense of horror or mental disarray. ... "W-we need help... on how to go back to Earth." Freya tried her best not to stutter so much as she directly looked at the two heads this time when she spoke, she''s focusing her vision on the two heads'' foreheads, not directly looking at their eyes which felt mentally consuming. "...Familiar..." "...Yes, she needs..." "...Me?..." "Do you want us?..." Freya''s mind turned nk with the headless woman''s words before she spoke after pondering for some time. "...No, because I''m inexperienced just like you said, and I believe you''re strong which I don''t deserve right now..." Freya spoke her true feelings which caused the mouth of each head to curl up. "...Greedy..." "...Yes, she is not..." "...Help..." "...Yes, we will... With one condition..." Freya listened carefully as she noticed the peculiarity of the way they spoke. The blonde-haired, crimson:eyed head on the left hand that was grabbed through the hair spoke only a word anytime which was always ended by the one on the right with tinum hair and purple eyes. "...What condition?" Freya asked politely, curious about the condition that she would need to fulfill. "...Book..." "...Yes, something to read..." Freya cocked her head to the side in confusion. "Sorry...?" Chapter 92 Nether Realm (3) Freya''s ears pricked up a little, seemingly confused with what she just heard. "...Book..." "...We want to read..." "...Book..." "...Yes, that specific one..." The headless body holding the head with blonde hair and crimson eyes in her left hand spoke only the word ''Book'', while the head with tinum hair and purple eyes hanging in her right hand made Freya understand that the condition for Freya to receive help was to give the headless woman a ''Book''. Freya also noticed that it was a specific one and not just any random book she could pick up or buy on Earth. Freyaposed herself before asking politely, still feeling a little anxious, but it was somehow manageable this timepared to earlier. "W-what kind of ''Book'' do you want?" Freya needed an answer not only because she needed to know it, but rather to check if it was possible for her to get her hands on the ''Book'' that the headless woman was requesting. At this moment, the two heads looked at each other for a moment before they told Freya the name of a certain ''Book'', as well as how and when to get it. Freya couldn''t believe her ears with a peculiar condition, especially when or how to get the requested certain ''Book''. Freya nced at the bodies of Russell, Amelie, and Amery who seemed to experience a good sleep as their snoring could be heard which made Freya chuckle a little before she heard again the headless woman floating atop the spire of her small castle. "...Payment..." "...Yes, it''s an advance..." "...Waiting..." "...We will be..." "...Item..." "...Take this with you..." The single eye on the back of each hand of the headless woman whose color corresponds to the pair of eyes of the head that''s being held on each side glowed, then a small item appeared between the two hands, floating in the middle of them. Then the single ''crimson'' eye on the back of the left hand and the single ''purple'' eye on the back of the right hand who intermittently blinked before seemed to blink in harmony at this moment. [Activating Skill: ???] Soon, as if a wind swept through the ce where they were standing or lying on the ground, dust scattered and seemed to consume Freya, Russell, and the duo''s bodies. [You have been affected by the Nether Dust.] [Your smell will be favorable towards some Nether Creatures.] Freya looked over the spire before she asked in a totally curious tone. "Uhmm... Can''t I just be a ''Dead'' to be favorable towards others here?" The right head with tinum hair and purple eyes chucked at Freya''s question before the left head with blonde hair and crimson eyes spoke a single word. "...Feared..." "...You will be instead..." Freya didn''t ask any further because of her profession, an Alive Death Executioner which already repels some Nether Creatures, but what if she transforms and bes an Undead with the use of one of the effects of the ''Ne with a Living Eye.'' Freya shivers with the thought because in movies she watched before when they were kids, Undead was made up of bones. ''Do I be like that, too? ''Why''d I get such a responsibility?'' Freya said inwardly, feeling a little apprehensive. "...Instructions..." "...Take note of our..." Freya''s thought snapped out, sending her senses to reality as she listened attentively to the instructions given to her. ... After an unknown period of time, Freya''spany woke up in a seemingly long dream, scratching the back of their heads, and scanning their surroundings which didn''t change. "You''re awake, Oppa." Freya ¡ª who was sitting on a rock, not far away from the small castle of the floating headless woman with two heads on both hands, cross-legged ¡ª spoke, feeling relieved. ''We just went into a dangerous situation...'' Freya thought as she recalled the conversation she had with the owner of the small castle after she was given instructions on what familiar to acquire and how to acquire it. The headless woman said that Russell, Amelie, and Amery might only wake up after a few months if not for the effects of the ''Ne with a Living Eye'' which negated the power of Nether Creatures. It even took some time for Russell and the duo to wake up. It''s an unintentional attack on the soul that caused Russell and the duo to fall asleep. Freya became increasingly curious about the identity of the owner of the small castle, but she didn''t dare to use Death''s Eye to peek at the headless woman''s name or status because she felt that it might be personal and rude, especially after the help she received. She was also told that they were lucky that the one they approached was something like a humanoid creature because there were fierce ones called Nether Abominations whose images would make someone who''s not rted to Death in any way feel heavily repulsed. To approach a Nether Abomination, depending on what type of specific Nether Creature, Freya needed certain conditions just like the Nether Dust buff she and thepany received that wouldst for some time. Freya also asked the headless woman the thing she was supposed to ask her older brother after he woke up. She learned that it''s not only the Ruler of Death who has the capacity to make contracts with numerous people at the same time, and the contract with ''Him'' gave the contractee a different privilege... It''s to grant the contractee ''freedom'', the opposite of being a shackled dog of other Constetions. The Ruler of Death respects the ''freedom'' of any being as ''He'' regard ''life'' as something precious and must be lived in a way that one would want. It''s the very reason why there were Death Executioners who abused the power given to them by the Ruler of Death, but the headless womanughed at that statement as she told Freya that the moment those traitors of Death died... She wouldn''t want to imagine what would happen to their souls. Other Constetions could make a contract with as many as they wanted as long as they could withstand the bacsh if their contractees died. It made Freya guess the true power of the Ruler of Death which made contracts with many races, producing many Death Executioners. The headless woman also said that it''s not the same with every Constetion, there''s nomonality with conditions on how the contracts were made. Every Constetion has its own purpose whether it would give them freedom or be shackled by the contract was up to what kind of Constetion a being made a contract with. The headless woman also added, and told her what kind of Nether Creatures were ''living'' in the Nether Realm... At least some of them. They were the Nether Abominations, Nether Sinners, Nether Fallen, Nether Torturers, Nether Workers, Nether Strays, and Nether ves. Nether Abominations are born straight out of the Ruler of Death''s excessed aura that circles around the entirety of this realm. Nether Sinners were the kind of Nether Creatures that depicts the sins that any being in the Great Universe couldmit such as the known Seven Deadly Sins: Pride, Greed, Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Wrath, and Sloth. Nether Fallen were the Nether Creatures that were thrown out of Heaven''s Sanctuary because they sinned against the Heavenly Beings at some point in time. Nether Torturers were the Nether Creatures that endlessly tortures souls that fully sumbed to contamination of Evil Spirits from the Spirit Realm because of their own very desire. Nether Workers were the Nether Creatures that generally works in any other region of the Nether Realm. They served the Ruler of Death by managing the regions and assigning the transfer of souls, depending on what punishment the souls deserved and how long before being put to eternal rest. Nether Strays... The Nether Creatures that wander the Nether Realm aimlessly. Andstly... the Nether ves which Freya needed to be her familiar to leave this ce. ''Sigh...'', Freya heaved a sigh of relief as she recalled everything that happened. Her older brother, Amelie, and Amery stood up, stretching their bodies before one of them asked what happened. Russell knew what happened because he knew the nature of power in the Nether Realm, but the identity of the headless woman wasn''t his unpublished novel. But he recalled that humanoid creatures in the Nether Realm weren''t malicious unless one offended them first or if they weren''t rted to Death in any way. It''s also because of his suggestion that they chose to inquire about the headless woman instead of any other Nether Creatures. "Uhmm... you fell asleep, I don''t know how much time had passed since technology here doesn''t work." Freya said casually, prompting Amelie to check her smartwatch which isn''t turning on. "Well, it would be weird if it works here. She chuckled, seemingly amused if such human technology worked in this ce. "Alright, what''s next?" After Amelie asked, Freya recounted everything to them even the additional information that the headless woman told her except for one thing... The condition she was given in exchange for help. ... Looking at the back of the four humans while floating atop the spire of her castle, the head with blonde hair and crimson eyes spoke... but at this moment, it was fluent. "Let''s see what will happenter on." The head with tinum hair and purple eyes spoke, not looking at the blonde head beside her. "I''m amused that the new Death Executioner hasn''t realized yet that she conversed with us using thenguage of the Dead. " Well, maybe it sounded different in her ears." "Anyway, Violet... that''s the Blood Monarch''s daughter with her and the Monarch of Spade''s new disciple!" The head with blonde hair with crimson eyes said dly, finding the encounter quite interesting. "Stop fangirling, Red! You childish head!" The head with tinum hair and purple eyes spoke the name of the blonde hair with crimson eyes. But Red didn''t listen to Violet as she continued to speak, her crimson eyes seemed to shine. "And the man with them... It''s the Goddess of Night''s-!" Red''s words were stopped by the notification from the System. [The Ruler of Death asks the two of you to go back to the Library of the Dead immediately.] "What timing! Let''s go! And Don''t you dare speak such things openly. "You know what''s happening in the Great Universe, right now!" Violet said with an angry tone as the both of them read the System message. "Sorry, sorry..." Violet said apologetically before they went inside the small castle where one of the entrances to ess the Library of the Dead was located. ... Freya with thepany arrived at another part of the Region of Oblivion after walking for a few minutes, covering an unknown amount of distance. The headless woman suggested that it''s better to make a Nether ve a familiar, but it''s not bad to choose Nether Strays, too. After some time, they saw city-like infrastructures, but there were no humans in their sight. The Nether Creatures gave way to them but only showed little to no aggression towards Russell, Amelie, and Amery which died down a second or two upon realizing that they were with Freya which they instantly recognized for some reason as one of the Death Executioners. "It''s like really a city..." Freya said in awe while looking around the ce they arrived at. There were towering structures that were not ruined like outside the city-like structure where they met the headless woman. [Your Star Quest Party has arrived at the Region of Oblivion, City of ''Forgetfulness''.] The notification entered their ears as they read the System message. Tap-! Tap-! Tap-! Then, they heard a continuous tap on the ground, prompting them to look at where it came from. They saw a horse but its feature was that it has no eyes, no, rather it has two eyes, each eye on the side of its body, and it was burning with purple mes. "What a creepy but beautiful creature." Amelie said in amazement. The horse has a carriage on its back, then a Nether Creature from the top of the horse looked at them before it approached them then bowed its head to Freya before saying: "Wee to the City of Forgetfulness young Death Executioner." Chapter 93 Familiar "Wee to the City of Forgetfulness young Death Executioner." A Nether Creature whose features went passed the border of human''s definition of abnormality bowed to Freya. Its height was something that''s a little short, but also a little taller than dwarves living in the Vulcan Kingdom where humanity has quite a friendly rtionship. It has three eyes, two were ced just like simr to a human''s, just below its forehead, while a single vertical, quite big eye was in the middle between the two eyes. This Nether Creature has no nose, only a mouth with teeth of bones. It has no hair, but rather three small horns, two of which protrude symmetrically, while the remaining horn protrudes from its forehead like a scarab beetle. Its body was bulky, same with its two legs and two arms, they were made of almost all bone, and only some flesh remains, but its whole body was burning with purple mes, but feeling no pain, just like the horse with each eye of its side. Freya ¡ª who observed the Nether Creature that she seemed to get used to seeing after her encounter with the mysterious headless woman ¡ª checked its Status Window with the use of one of her skills: Death''s Eye. [Activating Skill: Death''s Eye] Status Window Name: Verg-Or Race: Nether Creature (Worker) Title: ve Trader of the Dead Health Points (HP): 49,990 Mana Points (MP): 49,990 Stamina Points (SP): 49,990 Chaos Mana (CM): 49,990 Age: 33,333,323 (Earth Years) Sex: ??? Height: ??? Rank: A+ Profession: Merchant [Stats] pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 Strength: 4,999 Dexterity: 4,999 Constitution: 4,999 Agility: 4,999 Vitality: 4,999 Willpower: 4,999 Tenacity: 4,999 Charm: 2 Luck: 15 Magic Power: 49,990 Chaos Power: 49,990 Unique Skill: ??? Skill: ??? Trait: ??? ... Freya read the Status Window shown in front of her and guesses some things as she read through it, there was also a look of wonder with the information that registered in her mind. First, it was the age of the Nether Creature in front of her which was 33,333,332, at least on the Earth Years. Second, the ??? in its Status Window, although she used Death''s Eye which allows her to check its Status Window, it''s still unknown to her for some reason. Third, she noticed the System''s information about the additional stat for Agility and Vitality per 3 Dexterity and Constitution stat. ''They don''t have that bonus stat like the dungeon monsters... is it because they''re not considered humans or intelligent races like the Elves? I''ll ask Oppater about it.'' Freya suspected, but one she took note of the most was its fixed stats which numbered 4,999, equivalent to an A+ rank before the S- rank whose stats starts from 5,000. ... "Hello... Please, stop the formalities. I need some help with something. "By the way, I''m Freya and the one here is my older brother..." Freya introduced her older brother as well as Amelie and Amery to the Nether Creature with a Merchant profession named Verg-Or. Although there were eyes from other Nether Creatures roaming around, they went to their assigned jobs, minding their own business. "Alright, Ms. Freya, what can I do for you?" Verg-Or spoke politely while looking at the ground. ''He''s probably a male. Freya thought if she''d guess it based on the creature''s voice.'' "I need a familiar who can apany me in my journey." "Familiar... You came to the right ce, Ms. Freya!" After that, Verg-Or removed a tattered curtain hanging on the back of a slightly bigger-than-normal size burning horse with an eye on each side, there was a cage with at least eight Nether Creatures that were tied up on their feet, hands, or wings. "Uhmm... those are Nether ves, right? By the way, how''d they be a ve?" She asked curiously as she examined the Nether Creatures in the cage locked in a carriage carried around by the bone horse burning in purple mes. What she exactly was curious about was if the Ruler of Death assigned these beings to have a certain role just like in a theatre as if they were only acting for the sake of having a society in the Nether Realm. The Merchant, Verg-Or answered politely with a smile, looking at the Nether ves who were not struggling at all. "Ms. Freya, they are originally Nether Strays that roam the Nether Realm aimlessly, but they came from other regions and were caught by Nether Workers like me, but with the profession of Soldiers. Then they were branded with the ve Seal, turning them into Nether ves." Freya listened attentively, it was the same with Russell who knew at least the circumstances of how the Nether Realm works, while Amelie and Amery had a wondrous look as if realizing that what happened probably was trespassing on a certain territory or region. "Freya, isn''t your Unique Skill control a specific area of the dead? "Does it mean that you only have the authority or can go for now in this Region of Oblivion?" Amelie asked as she recalled the conversation earlier before afternoon today on Earth. "That''s right, Ms. Amelie, some regions are assigned to serve the other Death Executioners. Although the unique skill granted to each Death Executioner is different, one of its effects is certainly transferring them to a certain region." Verg-Or added, confirming Amelie''s question. Freya has many questions flowing in her mind as if a flood was about to surge, but she stored them at the back of her head for now and got to business. At this moment, the System''s notification sounded in Freya''s ears, telling her that her Unique Skill has been modified. "Is that so... I''ll think about itter, but now I need a familiar, can you introduce them to me?" "Yes, Ms. Freya." Verg-Or said in a hoarse voice as if his throat which seemed nonexistent was feeling extremely cold. The Merchant, Freya, and thepany approached the carriage carried by the burning horse. "This one is a Gargoyle from the Region of Stones. "Its ability..." Verg-Or introduced the eight Nether ves as an unknown period of time had passed. One of the Nether ves was the Gargoyle from the Region of Stones with its great sightseeing ability to locate souls, as well as to detect evil spirits, approaching from afar. It has horizontal eyes and burns with gray mes like the color of some kind of rock. Then there''s a Goblin Thief made of bones, burning with green mes, and has the ability to steal inside the Dimensional Inventory of a person but with only 0.00000001% chance, unlike the Dimensional Thief profession or the Cosmic Plunderer lurking around the cosmos that Russell knew with its 99.9% uracy of stealing if not encountered properly. But its true skill was the ''Soul Theft'' skill which allows it to steal the soul for a few seconds to dy theplete possession of evil spirits to their targets. There''s a humanoid creature, too, also made of bones with slight flesh remaining, it has long ck hair with blindfolded eyes. The creepy thing about it was that it has clothes simr to a nun of a Church on Earth. Verg-Or said that she was a Nether Stray from the Country of Darkness. Freya noticed that the word Verg-Or used was Country and not Region, but she guessed some things already and didn''t ask about it, but rather continued to organize her thoughts about what Verg-Or introduced. The name of this humanoid creature with a nun outfit was ''Estelle'', with an ability that either calms or attacks the soul and mind. Her profession was that of Dark Priestess. That''s the overview of what Verg-Or told her. The remaining five Nether Creatures that were introduced to her were already removed from her book because their abilities were either of no help to her regarding her expectation when she starts cating souls or because of their looks, that''s more abnormal than the previously mentioned. ''Come to think of it... What''s abnormal about Estelle aside from wearing the clothes of a nun and being blindfolded?'' Freya just epted the fact that Nether Creatures were all made of most bones and slightly flesh and that what she considered abnormal at this moment was other physical features aside from almost nonexistent skin. After pondering for some time, Freya asked Verg-Or what she was just thought at this very moment. "Verg-Or, what price I must pay to have one of them?" Verg-Or answered politely as if waiting to answer such a question. "It''s free for you, Ms. Freya. To be honest, you could take all of them, but when they step foot in your world, you need to feed them evil spirits at least thrice a day. And I believe that you couldn''t disown them after you choose them, so I advise you to think thoroughly about what choice you should make." Verg-Or''s on point as Freya''s Unique Skill doesn''t allow her to change familiars until the familiar dies and she doesn''t know yet how strong or how long a fight with an evil spiritsts. "There''s nothing to think about anymore. I will only take one, just as you said, I''m only a young Death Executioner, I might not be able to feed them evil spirits at the right time if I take too many." She could originally take 7 familiars, but with her Unique Skill being amplified with her title as Resident of the Nether Realm, she could take up to 14 familiars. Verg-Or felt reverence with the young Death Executioner in front of her as he thought: ''This is someone who knows her limits, unlike some others.'' "Alright, Ms. Freya, who will you take with you?" "I''ll choose Estelle, although all of them might be able to help me in some ways, I need someone right now that could help me calm souls and the mind. "By the way, how can I hide them when we get back to Earth?" This time, she looked at her older brother, Amelie, and Amery who was just listening to her conversation with the Merchant, but their faces contained an expression of being proud which somehow repulsed Freya because it felt sarcastic to her perspective. "They have transformation skills that couldn''t be detected unless the Eye that sees them has a Mirror or Arcana Origin." ''Mirror? Arcana...?'' Arcana... Freya recalled one of her Star Quests, it was to find a lost skillbook and artifact of Alises, the Queen of the Arcana World. "What do you mean by Mirror or Arcana Origin?" Freya asked ¡ª showing how inexperienced she was to this thing ¡ª with genuine curiosity, although she had guesses about the Arcana Origin. "Mirror Origin skill is the Eye of the Mirror Reality that came from the Constetion that owns the Mirror Dimension. It reflects the true nature of any being it sees. If one doesn''t have the trait of the Nihility which I believed you all have..." As Verg-Or said that, he looked at Russell. "Then... you''d not escape its prying abilities. "And about the Arcana Origin skill, it speaks for itself, one cannot escape the secrets of the Great Universe unless one also has the trait of the Nihility. "Anyway, Ms. Freya, I apologize but there''s at least onest Eye that canprehend the transformation skill of a Nether Creature, but I cannot tell you what it is because I might be in trouble if I do so." Freya felt a little curious but she quickly put it at the back of her head. "It''s alright... what''s the next process?" ... [You have made ''Estelle'' your familiar under the gaze of the ''Ruler of Death''] [The familiar, ''Estelle'' kindly received her calling to serve her new master.] [Estelle''s ve Seal has been removed, but rather been changed into a Soul Contract toward its new master.] [Her any attempt of betrayal will result in her True Death or Eternal Damnation under the Nether Torturers.] [Your familiar, ''Estelle'' has used Transformation Skill.] ... A little girl with a height of at least 150 cm stood in front of Freya, bowing her head. Its body was now covered in flesh just like a human''s and has fair skin while her hair remains deep ck. She still wears the blindfold as Verg-Or said that their nature or habit couldn''t be changed instantly and there might be a reason why she was wearing such a thing. After a few seconds, another notification sounded in Freya''s ears. [Your Unique Skill: Death''s Call has been sessfully used.] [You can now return to Earth by saying the following words: Return to the Living World.] Freya told her older brother and the duo that they could return. Russell, Amelie, and Amery nodded their heads and bid their goodbyes to the Merchant and the other Nether Creatures, spectating the spectacle. "Return to the Living World." ... Crack-! Crack-! A space was torn, then the five individuals walked out of it. "Huh? Where''s this?" Amelie asked, feeling bewildered because they weren''t in Russell''s dorm. They arrived at some secluded alley of an unknown ce. "Hey. Freya, we''re f*cked." Russell tapped Freya''s shoulders as he looked at one of the walls in the secluded alley with a paper posted. Freya read it slowly as her eyes widened. ... "Missing Obelisk Students" Russell Moon - Age 16 Freya Moon - Age 15 Amelie Rose Merveil - Age 16 Amery Blight - Age 15 [Student Photos] Chapter 94 Excuse "Freya, the smartwatch is working again... Eh? August 1... We were gone for at least one week." Amelie ¡ª who opened her smartwatch first and checked the date and time to clear their confusion regarding the Missing Poster ¡ª said in more confusion as she looked at Russell, waiting for an answer. "Yes, we''ve been there for at least 7 hours if I''m not wrong." Russell said, and he didn''t know whether he shouldugh or cry with the situation they were in. Freya squatted down as her smartwatch was bombarded by messages from their parents. It''s the same for Russell''s. "Oppa... why didn''t you tell us that time flows differently there? And why aren''t we at your room where we first disappeared?" Freya was about to tap her smartwatch to reply or call their parents to tell them that they were fine, but Russell stopped her at thest moment. "Stop, we won''t be able to make a reason... At least not yet." "Right... Oppa, Argh." Freya was about to cry and feeling increasingly mad inwardly at her calm older brother for worrying their parents. "Sorry..." Russell was just about to joke, telling Freya that he was proudly watching her bearing when interacting with Nether Creatures and she''s bing more mature, but he restrained himself from saying so because the truth was that he forgot and the atmosphere in the Nether Realm was unchangeable, it''s an eternal dimness. He squatted down near Freya whose hands were covering her eyes, seemingly already in tears, and patted her shoulder. "What should we do... O-Oppa?" Amelie and Amery, as well as Estelle, who was looking at her master, confusion painted on her face... Because crying... was something that she had no idea about as it doesn''t exist in the Nether Realm. It''s a ce devoid of love, but only faithfulness or loyalty to their master, and feelings of emptiness. As a wanderer in the Country of Darkness, all she ever learned was that there''s darkness in every being everywhere... deep in their hearts and souls. So, seeing someone cry, she wondered within herself... how a being with a darkness inside cry? Even those who were tortured to Eternal Damnation by Nether Torturers wailed in pain day and night, but tears weren''t flowing down their faces. She doesn''t understand... but, at this moment, she wanted to understand the nature of her new master. Estelle, the little kid, at least 150 cm, squatted down which confused Freya, but her next action sent her into a state of tranquility. Estelle hugged her master with her slightly small hands, deep ck hair fluttering slowly because of the wind on this cold night. Russell watches this spectacle with a genuine smile as he thought of a very reasonable way to escape the problemsing their way. If they go back to Obelisk Academy, they''d be questioned about where they went. Russell browsed the messages and calls from her parents, Samantha Hall, and Azalea Vermillion. Russell heaved a sigh of relief that was noticeable at this moment because of the gloomy atmosphere, prompting thepany to look at him, silently asking what to do next. "First, let''s get out of here first and find some lodging." The trio nodded while Estelle just followed along, one of her small hands wrapped around Freya''s. They were about to exit the secluded alley from wherever it was when Russell stopped for a moment before he asked Freya something. "Freya, is your Death''s Call been modified already? You know some skills are being modified after it was used at least once. "Because Estelle''s appearance is strange to other people if they see her blindfolded." Freya thought about her older brother''s words before she nodded in agreement... Because eye diseases don''t exist in this world anymore, a blindfolded little girl would certainly garner suspicions. Freya skimmed through the notifications she received and saw what she was looking for. Her Death''s Call unique skill has been modified, it can be used to summon or unsummon Estelle. If she''s unsummon, she''ll be sent inside the Treasure Box with a Living Eye after it became empty, but at this moment, Freya hasn''t opened the Treasure Box with a Living Eye she received from the Ruler of Death yet. Aside from the ability to summon and unsummon Estelle, her unique skill stated that she could only make familiars in the Region of Oblivion, it became her specified area or territory as a new Death Executioner. It simply means that the Region of Oblivion became under her authority, at least partially at the moment because she hasn''t explored yet everything on it, and killing other Death Executioners would mean that their territories would be passed down to her. "Oppa, let''s ess the Chaos Training Grounds first. "By the way, does Estelle will be able to ess it, too?" Chaos Realm was entirely differentpared to Nether Realm, although the Ruler of Death has the power of Chaos, it''s not the same and as purepared to the Goddess of Night, the ruler of Chaos. "I think she''ll be able to... let''s try it first." Russell took out a slightly medium, dark blue key, emanating a dark blue aura, the Chaos Aura, with an engraved symbol of the nted X 45 degrees to the right. It was the first time Freya and Amery saw the key, then at that moment, Russell thrust it in space in front of him, causing it to be torn apart as if a mirror was shattered, but notpletely broken. Then, a dark blue aura seeped out of it as their trait of Nihility was working topletely conceal their surroundings. Freya held Estelle''s hand and walked through it, the others followed suit. Although it was an unwanted moment for Freya and Amery to go, it was necessary at the moment. The torn fabric of space closes after a few seconds as if nothing happened in the area. ... "Where the hell did he go?" A woman with tinum hair and ruby eyes, sitting on a stool, was fidgeting with an item that looked like a branch. Ding-! Azalea was snapped out of her thoughts as she heard a notification, not from the System, but rather from her smartwatch. Then her eyes widened when she read the name of the sender, it was the one she was thinking about just now. Seven days ago, Russell Moon, along with three women; one was her younger sister, and the other two were his new ssmates after bing an A-1 student. The content of the message was simply a phrase. "I need your help." Azalea originally didn''t have Russell''s contact number, he didn''t leave it with the note he wrote regarding the presumed locations of what she was looking for, instead, as the President of the Student Council Committee, she used her authority to gain the ess to his smartwatch number. Although her number, not the personal one, was known to the Obelisk Academy for public inquiries because of her position, it was the first time it was being used to contact her for help that might certainly be not student issues like kids quarreling. She immediately tapped on her smartwatch, but at this moment, her seemingly relieved expression after the initial shock turned into confusion... It''s because Russell''s contact number couldn''t be reached again. With the advanced technology, the smartwatch''s signal only goes off if a person was inside a Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Tower or if it broke for some reason, but the thing about the smartwatch was that it could be tracked even if it''s off or broken via some technological means, although with some restrictions like if the person needed to be tracked had sent a message or called within five minutes before the smartwatch went off or broke. And as the mysterious owner of the Thorn of Rose, the famous ck Market in the Orion Continent, she''d surely have the capability to such technology. Azalea immediately called someone and told them the situation, and the information needed for the target to be tracked. Then just after a few seconds, the answers came back to her, causing her mind to turn nk. "What did you say? It can not be tracked? Ah f*ck! Forget it, thank you. I''ll call again if I need something." The individual on the other end of the call apologize before Azalea ended the call. ''It''s not even three minutes since I received his message... what''s happening?'' It''s a mystery case for her... Because no one has seen them leave the Obelisk Academy after checking everything with security cameras and the use of detection-type artifacts. ... Russell, Freya, and the others arrived at Chaos Training Grounds, but there was no time for the new arrivals to admire the grand scenery of resplendent stars, swirling in the vast, eternal night. Freya did what she had to do and quickly took out the Treasure Box with a Living Eye, opened it quickly, then various items floating in the air, and were sucked into her Dimensional Inventory. Then, with an empty Treasure Box with a Living Eye, Freya unsummon Estelle who didn''t make any resistance or any weird reactions. Her body turned immaterial and was sucked into the Treasure Box with a Living Eye. As Freya didn''t have time to inspect everything she received from opening the treasure box, she signaled her older brother to go back. Russell just nodded and they vanished from the Chaos Training Grounds, arriving from the secluded alley from nowhere. ... After walking for a few minutes, they recognized the ce they were in. They were still in Obelisk City, the capital of the country of Olympia. "Oppa... does it mean when we walked further from the starting point where we arrived at the Nether Realm, we''d be transferred to another ce when we go back?" Freya guessed from her older brother''s words some time ago... When Russell told them that the Nether Realm was from where they were standing at that moment. It means that if they essed again the Nether Realm from Russell''s dorm room, they would arrive at the ce where they arrived before... near the ruined small castles and floating, nted, dpidated houses. Russell nodded as he browsed the updated news until he reached the news from a few days ago, their faces were on some mediapanies. ''This is f*cking troublesome.'' It was clearly his fault and admitted it inwardly. ''There''s no excuse for this trouble.'' Russell was just bing mad at himself to the point of punching his own face when he read something in the news as he browsed... ''Or maybe there is.'' A smile of relief gradually appeared on his face as he read the news from July 26, just a day after they went to the Nether Realm. "Orion Obelisk Humanity Satellite Dungeon Detector (OOHSDD) has detected a new Strayed Dungeon near the borders, separating Olympia and Nereia, due East. But, contrary to what the excited yers were expecting, they didn''t find anything, but strangely, the Mana Energy Flow has been continually flowing in the area, said Dungeon Scientists." Chapter 95 Small Dungeon "Oppa! What do you mean by going to Olympia''s East Border? That''s hundreds of kilometers from here! "And it''ste night right now, and I don''t know if I should be grateful or not that people aren''t recognizing us." In this Post-Emergence World, missing people weren''t umon to the point that people became numb to it as long as it was not rted to their loved ones orrades. "It''s our way out to make a great excuse. Just trust me on this one. "By the way, Amelie, have you been to Olympia''s East Border before?" Russell inquired to Amelie while they were sitting on the couch inside the cheapest hotel room in the Obelisk City the five of them rented for the night which Amelie paid, not using the Obelisk Personal ount, but rather another bank. They weren''t wearing their student uniforms because they went to the Nether Realm almostte at night after their dinner. Amelie nodded in agreement, seemingly guessing what Russell was asking. "Alright, let''s use your Spade Warp to go there. "Some adventurers might be still flocking here." Russell said casually as he shared the details of the news regarding the Mana Energy Flow in the East Border, it was a sign that a Strayed Dungeon was there, if not a Dungeon Tower, but the thing about the news was that, although the Mana Energy Flow were surrounding the area, no dungeon has yet been found. "What are we going to do to that undetected dungeon?" Amelie asked curiously, then Freya interjected. "Oppa, I trust you, alright, you know that, but can you exin first what''s happening and why we need to go there?" Amery, sitting on the far end of the couch while Estelle, who was resummoned after they enter the rented hotel, sat on herp as if she found a simrly quietpanion, looked at Russell with anticipation as she thought that whenever this man do something, it''s something very abnormal atop the known abnormalities in this world. Russell sighed before telling them the n to make an excuse for their disappearance. The expressions of the women aside from Estelle who Russell didn''t know if she was seeing the surroundings with her blindfold turned into confusion or awe. Amelie''s eyes glistened, turning into imaginary stars with what they would encounter. Freya didn''t understand anything about what she just heard. She pricked up her ears as if she heard wrong because she thought that it was simrly bizarrepared to the Nether Realm. Amery''s eyes felt like a knife, piercing Russell''s soul before she spoke what she was thinking. "The Constetions'' influence is getting stronger, thus for such dungeon''s existence?" Russell nodded at Amery who barely speaks, Estelle, sitting on herp, nced behind to look up at Amery. "Anyway, just follow me and don''t act like you''re totally lost so we won''t garner suspicions through others'' eyes just by walking around, then after we arrived there, I''ll be the only one to go to get it, you four will stay in another hotel. "But first, let''s order some food first to feed ourselves, we are not in a hurry." They all nodded, including Estelle who seemed to have be more enthusiastic with the word ''Food''. Although she needed to eat evil spirits every day if she walked the Earth, in Nether Realm, they had the normal category of food just like what on Earth, but the only difference was that it was tainted with Death''s aura that kept them alive. Russell looked at them, feeling somehow relieved as they found a temporary solution, but with his next move, it was the condition for them to make an excuse without a loophole. He tapped on his smartwatch and started to call someone. ... Azalea ¨C who was wearing her sleepwear ¡ª was walking inside her dorm room as if she were circling the ce, her thoughts were a mess. Then, a ring was heard in her smartwatch and she suddenly stopped pacing around her room. She quickly answered it the moment she saw the name of the caller. "Russell!? What happened!?" She asked, somewhat worried, not because of any sort of romantic feelings, but rather to at least relieve her anxiety as this case was assigned down to her as the President of the Disciplinary Committee. "It''s nothing for you to worry about." Russell said casually on the other line, but Azalea''s vein bulged slightly as the words entered her ears. "Hey, do you f*cking have any idea how worried your parents are? "Don''t concern yourself with other family issues. By the way, I need help, and I know you''d grant it because you already found one of what you were looking for." Azalea''s eyes constricted, but Russell''s right. She really couldn''t care less if the case was assigned to her, but the reason she was eager to talk to Russell was that the written note he left to her when he intruded on her dorm room was right on the mark. Azalea looked at the dining table as she''s pacing aimlessly around her room, there was a branch-like shape on top of it. It''s an artifact called the Branch of Symbiosis. This artifact helps her detect if there''s a Four Seed of Direction in the area, and she personally went to stor''s Museum of Neo-Botany a few days ago. Although students from Obelisk Academy couldn''t go outside of the premises, there''s an exception when ites to the authority of members of the Disciplinary Committee and the Student Council, especially when ites to the President of each respective department. "Sigh... I can''t understand you. "What do you need, by the way?" Azalea heaved a sigh of resignation with the man''s somewhatposed demeanor despite what happened. After a few seconds, the other end of the call sounded in Azalea''s ears. "I need an artifact that can let a group of people escape or bypass the security cameras of the academy." Azalea''s mind turned nk as if something that was written was just erased. As the mysterious owner of the Thorn of Rose, the ck Market that operates in the whole of Orion Continent, she definitely has such an artifact, but its cost was hundreds of millions of O. "Do you know how much that costs? At least 650 million O." Azalea said as she felt like the help was something she didn''t expect. ''Why''d he need an artifact that can bypass the security cameras here? ''Ha! Too weird!'' Just as she thought of that, a chuckle entered her ears as the next words of Russell caused her to flinch slightly before she finally took a sit on the couch after pacing back and forth. "Its information value might be equal, if not higher than a Legendary-Grade Artifact which cost a billion and a half." Russell said as if he were reciting a story of the past. It was the exact same words that Azalea said when she jokingly asked Russell to provide her the information regarding the location of the Four Seeds of Direction and a Branch of Yggdrasil. "Alright, alright! Stop repeating what I said! How can you even memorize that exactly!? "Anyway, give me your location, I''ll also send the ''s Needle. "That would be at least, 1.150 billion O, and you didn''t provide the location of a branch of Yggdrasil. I''ll deduct 300 million O, so you''ll only have 50 million O. Give me your Obelisk bank ount number." Azalea calcted the costs, basically, the information regarding the location of the Four Seeds of Direction and a Branch of Yggdrasil costs 1.5 billion O, 300 million O for each location. "Okay, thank you. Send it asap, I''ll send the location right away. "Anyway, just sit back there and don''t do anything like report it to my parents, we''ll take care of it." Russell said firmly, he didn''t wait for Azalea''s reply as he quickly ended the call. "Bastard..." Azalea mumbled as she looked at her smartwatch for a few seconds as the call suddenly ended. Then after an unknown period of time, she tapped her smartwatch to call someone to issue themand of delivering the following items as soon as possible to the location. Due to the nature of the Thorn of Rose, any ordered items in the ck Market would arrive almost instantly at the given address after it was paid. "But how did he know about it..." Azalea wondered because the man, Russell, knew about her identity with certainty and the locations of what she needed to find for her sake. Although she wasn''t sure at first, after confirming the location of one of the Four Seeds of Direction, she seemed certain that the other seeds'' locations were on point, referring to the written note that Russell gave her. "Who really are you..." She mumbled with an expression of wonder, sitting on a couch, as she looked at the ceiling of her dorm. ... "Oppa... what''s that?" Freya asked curiously as a box sealed with special methods arrived at the hotel they were in. Artifacts couldn''t just be ced in normal seals because they wouldn''t be able to contain the artifacts. "It''s the final piece we needed to make an excuse." Russell took out two items from the box; One was a needle with a feature simr to an ordinary needle, but it doesn''t have a sharp, pointed endpoint. It was like a small rod with white thread circling it as Mana continue to emanate from it, and the second item was a long, ck nket that could envelop at least 8 people if stretched out to its end. A chuckle escaped from Russell''s mouth, although he didn''t know the specific artifact, he felt like he knew how to use it. He appraised the item as he became the owner of it. Status Appraisal Skills were entirely different from an Artificer''s Appraisal Skills because one must own the item for ordinary people for them to appraise it. Simply put, if a yer wasn''t in an artificer-rted profession, he wouldn''t be able to appraise a weapon, armor, artifact, skillbooks, or treasure herbs if the said individual doesn''t own them. Ownership of things was granted by the System especially if the items were put inside the Dimensional Inventory. ... [Junain''s nket] A nket of concealment made from the Monster Core of the Boss Monster called Junain from the High Dungeon Tower: Concealment of Wishes. Rank: Unique ssification: Artifact Effects: - If wrapped around one''s body, the yers enclosed by it will be able to bypass the highest grade security cameras known to humanity, and detection skills up to A+ rank. - One''s footsteps will be like the wind, and their aura will bepletely concealed. ... "Perfect!" Russell eximed as he put ''s Needle and Junain''s nket in his Dimensional Inventory. He then looked at hispanions who were just done organizing themselves before they left the cheapest hotel room, as Estelle went inside the Treasure Box with a Living Eye again, to go back to the secluded alley where they arrived from. After a few minutes of walking, Amelie asked if everyone was ready, and they nodded, then waited for whates next. Amelie imagined the ce of the East Border that she saw when she was still a part of a certain group while having a deep connection with Thorn of Rose. Then after a few seconds, she activated one of the skills that she received by bing the Lady of Shaded Spade''s contractee. [Activating Skill: Spade Warp] Soon, a dark spade-shaped warp appeared in front of them, it has an atmosphere of being majestic from the aura it was exuding, but thanks to their Nihility trait, it waspletely concealed even in the prying eyes of the Constetions. "Let''s go." All of them slowly walked through it. ... Olympia''s East Border, the boundary between Olympia and Nereia. Woong-! The endpoint of the Spade Warp was formed in a forested area. It''s the ce that Amelie went to before and imagined. "This is some secretive ce, too..." Freya said while she looked at Amelie with curious eyes because of the location where they arrived just now. Amelie scratched her head before she said with a casual, but trusting tone. "This is where I was sent to assassinate someone before." Freya and Amery''s ears pricked up as if they heard wrong, but Russell somewhat didn''t seem surprised because he knew how Dark Tears work, it''s not just a drug, but an instant poison if consumed inrge doses at once. "I''m sorry to interrupt, but let''s find a hotel again first to stay for the night, and I''ll do what''s needed to be done. Alright." The trio of women nodded their heads as they traverse the forested area with a lonely atmosphere, and after at least 5 minutes of walking, they quickly arrived at the rural area which doesn''t seem like one because of its liveliness, and found a cheaper hotel than the one in the Obelisk City. ... "Alright, just stay here, I''lle back quickly." Russell said as he took out the Mask of Night in his Dimensional Inventory and wear it, then his vanished became one with the shadows. ... After at least 20 minutes, Russell came back with a smile on his lips which could only mean sess. "Russell... did you get it?" Amelie asked with anticipation to which Russell nodded in response as he put out something from his pocket. It''s a normal-looking gray rock that''s at least slightly bigger than Russell''s hand. He then said as he nced around at his sitting younger sister and Amery as he weakly throw and catch vertically the gray rock in midair. "Who says that a Dungeon cannot be this small?" Chapter 96 First Dungeon Raid "Oppa, do you think you''re still right in the head?" Freya asked curiously as she examined from head to toe her older brother who was holding a normal-looking gray rock in his right hand. Russell scoffed at his younger sister''s question before he replied firmly. "Haha, this is the dungeon that we''re going to raid together for the first time. With this and the artifact that I received with the help of someone you shouldn''t know about, at least for now, we will be able to make a good excuse for disappearing. "First, we will raid this normal-looking rock that''s disguised as a Strayed Dungeon, then we''d let ourselves get beat up by some micro-monsters inside, then if we get questionedter on by school authorities about what happened, we''d tell them that we snuck out in the morning using the artifact, Junain''s nket, the moment we read about the news regarding this dungeon that couldn''t be seen by others because we got curious and tried to check it out. Then we got swept through it, then sucked into it, then tried hard to survive against the micro-monsters... That''s the n." Russell said in seriousness as if he was nning a heist. Amelie chuckled before she said while she looked at Freya ¡ª who was ying with Estelle''s hair who she resummoned the moment they entered the rented hotel room. "All for this just to make a good excuse for our disappearance, Freya, your brother might not really be right on the head. Hahaha! "But what are we waiting for? I''d like to see what we would be fighting against!" Amelie said in excitement, then she followed up with a question regarding Russell''s n. "By the way, Russell, do we need to cry, too? You know when we get back and get questioned." Amery ¡ª who was maintaining her aloof, cold atmosphere almostugh reflexively at Amelie''s question. Russell couldn''t believe his ears with the question that was asked by Amelie, who was somewhat feeling ted. "I''m a man, I cry alone. But you girls, do whatever you want." Freya and Amery''s sense of hearing seemed to get blocked off by something as they couldn''t register what Russell said. "...Oppa, please stop with your mumbling, let''s just go, okay." Freya said, seemingly concerned with her older brother''s sudden jump in his mental health. "How do we enter that Strayed Dungeon then, and what''s the rank of it? If it''s at least B-rank, we''d better think of another option right now." Amery said as she thought of possible cases that might lead to their doom. "Don''t worry, it''s at least E to E+ rank. "Just as I said earlier, the Constetions'' influence is just getting stronger, but not at this very moment where they''d be able to fully manifest their power on the. "By the way, we can enter this Strayed Dungeon through this..." Russell showed them something that was imprinted on the normal-looking gray rock. A symbol that looked like the microscopic view of the anatomy of a single cell, the symbol that refers to life in the Micro-Universe. "It''ll activate if I smear my blood into the symbol, but first, we need to be in the party via System''s authority so everyone will get sucked into it. "The Star Quest Party will suffice, if not better..." Russell said as he readied himself for what they''d encounter, but he was looking forward to it because the first to discover such a thing would be randomly rewarded by the System, and whatever they might acquire from defeating the Boss Monster, it would be something totally unknown to humanity at this very moment. "Alright, if there''s nothing else. Let''s go. "Freya, as the party leader, it''s your blood that''s needed to be smeared." Freya didn''t react anymore as she quickly took out a sword from her Dimensional Inventory, then cut her left palm slightly as blood started to flow down from it, reaching the normal-looking gray rock that Russell extended in front of her. Tak- Tak- Tak- The blood made contact with the symbol that depicts life, then after a few seconds, it glowed with various colors which were reflected in everyone''s eyes before they were consumed by the gray rock which also vanished into thin air. ... [Your Star Quest Party has arrived at the Micro-Strayed Dungeon: Vein of Immunosar (E+)!] [Your Star Quest Party has been the first discoverer of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon!] [Each Party Member of the Star Quest Party has received the Title: Explorer of the Micro-Universe!] ... [Explorer of the Micro-Universe] The beings that cannot be seen by the naked eye are also existing in this Great Universe. Rank: D- Effect: - Helps the owner of the title to navigate any Micro-Strayed Dungeons more skillfully with the use of the System''s Map. ... They arrived in a cave-like environment, but contrary to the normal-looking gray rock, the inside of it was dyed red as though they were in a vein where blood flows. Although they''re in the Micro-Strayed Dungeon, their sizes were that of normal, but they knew that they''d be so small that matches the beings of Micro-Universe. After surveying the area for a few seconds, Freya summoned Estelle as she asked with a somewhat concerned tone. "Estelle, you can fight right?" She asked because Verg-Or only told her that she at least has the ability to calm or corrupt a soul, but there might be other ways for her to fight. Freya hasn''t checked Estelle''s Status Window yet, and as the owner of the familiar which she considered more apanion, she has the ability to inspect her Status, but she forgot due to the situation that befell them after they went back to Earth. Estelle nodded, without saying anything. She hasn''t said any word from the moment she became Freya''s familiar, it''s her mind that does the talking within herself. The characteristic of a timid or introverted person or in her case, timid or introverted Nether Creature. "Hey, hey! We got a map!" Amelie said in excitement as she took out a staff from her Dimensional Inventory, but this time, it wasn''t the normal ck Staff she used to stab Kevin Springer in the chest and neck, but rather, it was the staff she received from the blessing of the mysterious Egg after the Star Quest Party consumed the Fruit of Chaos: Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth). It has a tip with a spade shape, its body was dyed deep purple while the handle was in deep ck. Its length was about 175cm, slightly taller than everyone here. ... "That''s convenient for us." Amery said as she browse and observe their location based on the System''s Map. System''s Map could only normally be used when someone wasn''t inside of any kind of dungeon, just like what Russell did when he explored Armageddon Mountain to find the Hidden Dungeon called the ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil''. But with the title they received for being the first to discover and ess a Micro-Strayed Dungeon, they''d gain the advantage to use the System''s Map inside the dungeon. "Hey! Move, something''sing! About ten!" Amelie blurted out as she readied herself, it''s the same for others including Estelle. Red dots appeared on the System''s Map which means enemies while green referred to allies or friendly units. Clomp-! Clomp-! Clomp-! Heavy steps entered their ears, and soon, the sights of the Micro-monsters could be seen in their eyes as a Star Quest Party notification sounded in their ears, and they quickly skimmed through it. [You have encountered a group of ''Germ T''] "Hahaha! This is ridiculous! Freya, they might be the 0.1% of germs that couldn''t be killed in thosemercials we often saw on T.V." Russell chuckled at Amelie''s humor as he took the lead to lunge forward against the ten monsters who lined up themselves called Germ T. The Germ T only lined up at the entrance, acting like guards to prevent the intruder from going in. Russell designed the Micro-Strayed Dungeons in his unpublished novel based on Biology, specifically about the cells and body systems that needed to be protected, thus micro-monsters ¡ª who became big in their eyes as they became small and sucked in the Micro-Strayed Dungeon ¡ª act like guards and would only attack if the intruder reaches a certain point. ... [You have killed a Germ T] [You have killed a Germ T] [The Party Member, ''Russell Moon'''' has killed a Germ T] [The Party Member, ''Amery Blight'' has killed a Germ T] [The Party Member, ''Amelie Rose'' has killed a Germ T] [Your familiar, ''Estelle'' has used the Skill: Drain (A+)] [The Life Force of the Germ T''s in the affected area will be gradually transferred for 20 seconds to everyone in the Star Quest Party to regain their Stamina] Freya looked at Estelle in the backline as she smiled, feeling proud of thepanion she picked up to apany her. Soon, green lines that seemed illusory linked up from some Germ T''s bodies to Freya and the others. They felt their energye back. "Shh- Shh-!" The Germ T''s who were unable to makeprehensible sounds struggled with their might, but to no avail, after a few minutes, the ten Germ T were annihted. "They really looked like germs, but more details than what can be seen under the microscope." Amelie said as she squatted down to observe the appearance of the Germ T she stabbed to death with her growth-type staff, she didn''t need to use a skill for it. Germ T''s appearance was like that of a germ, but it stood on two short legs with two short hands just like bears in the wild, but it has fierce eyes and shark-like pointed teeth, but it has no nose. "Is anybody good?" Russell asked, cutting Amelie''s admiration for the Germ T she just yed mercilessly. ''Well, they all look fine.'' Russell said inwardly, feeling relieved because even if the Germ Ts were of low rank if they were caught off-guard, it''d be disastrous. All of them nodded before Amery suggested picking up some of Germ T''s bodies to bring with them outside after they finished raiding the dungeon which all of them have nothing toin about. ... ''Soon, there would be Micro-Strayed Dungeons in the realm of SSS+ rank...'' Russell seemed to recall the details of his unpublished novel. The authority of the Micro-Universe fell under the Constetion with the Cosmic Title, ''Lover of the Unseen Life'', it''s the Constetion that has a contract with Elizabeth''s mother, Eliana von Etherion, the Queen of the country, Etheria. It''s the opposite of Elizabeth''s soon-to-be Constetion with the Cosmic Title, ''Lover of Space Continuum''. These two Constetions have a Mother-Daughter rtionship. One loves what cannot be seen by the human eye, and the other loves the wonder of everything that could be seen in space. The Macro-Teleportation, Blessing of the Space Overseer (SS), Weapon Space Coating (SSS), as well as the White Perception (SS+) skill that Elizabeth used against Rumia came from the Lover of Space Continuum, although she''s not contracted yet with the Constetion, Elizabeth received such blessing due to her mother''s Constetion that rtes with their Mother-Daughter rtionship. With the Constetion''s influence getting stronger, the power of the Lover of Unseen Life, the Micro-Universe ''She'' rules, would be strengthened. ''Soon, flu will emerge again.'' It''s not a coincidence or out of a whim that Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster asked them if humanity could get the flu again before in his ss. ''They might already discover something abnormal.'' Russell thought inwardly as they arrived at the next line of defense of the germ monsters. ... At Outer Space, Post-Emergence Earth''s Atmosphere, Orion Space Station (OSS) "Sir, we''ve discovered that the Mana in the surroundings of Olympia East Border where the Mana Energy Flow turned dense a few days ago has returned to its normal state." The words of a man with brown hair, yellow eyes, and a fitted body, standing by the window of a spacecraft, reported what he observed and monitored through the Orion Obelisk Humanity Satellite Dungeon Detector (OOHSDD). Chapter 97 Amelies Persona [You have killed a Germ Q] [You have killed a Germ Q] Freya pulled out her sword from the body of a micro-monster that didn''t look so small as it was at least taller than them inside this Micro-Strayed Dungeon. "Oppa, ording to the map, it''s only one floor." Freya said casually as she browsed the System''s Map which granted them to travel the dungeon more skillfully, it was thanks to the reward of being the first to discover such a dungeon. "That''s better. It might take longer if there''s another floor." Russell said as he somehow felt relieved with the news. Although Strayed Dungeon''s maximum floor was only two, it''s rare to have a Strayed Dungeon with only one floor. "We''re nearing the Boss Monster. This is our first dungeon raid together! I''m excited!" Amelie said with a smile painted on her lips while walking at a slow pace as she observed the surroundings via System''s Map. After an unknown period of time, they arrived at a circr red door as a notification entered their ears, prompting them to read the System''s message. [The Boss Monster, ''Immunosar''s Cancer'' has noticed your existence!] Creak-! The circr red door creaked open, revealing the appearance of the Boss Monster sitting floating midair as its body was in connection with vein-like branches. Its height was at least 10 meters, around five times the size of germ monsters. It has pincers that contained lumps of flesh which repulsed Freya who wasn''t used to such an appearance as she thought that it was worse than seeing Kevin Springer being stabbed in the neck by Amelie. "What a name, it''s a straight-out cancer cell. That''s too many legs!" Amelie eximed as she sized up the Boss Monster. "Hup-! Bam-! "No, no! Easy now." Amelie jumped as a quick reaction in response to the sudden attack of the Boss Monster being tied up by vein-like branches around its body. The Immunosar''s Cancer''s pincer extended and reached the Star Quest Party''s spot from at least 15 meters away. "Hey! Freya, are you alright?" Amelie said in a loud voice as she looked at Freya who was somewhat got hit by the impact. Freya nodded at her words as Estelle guards her master. "Roaaaaarrrrr!" The mouth of Immunosar''s Cancer opened, it revealed lines of teeth. "What the f*ck is that!?" Amelie cursed, being a woman whose very different while she was in the Obelisk Academy, taking sses. All of them looked at the mouth of Immunosar''s Cancer and saw countless eyes on the teeth, not made of bones, but rather solid flesh. The eyes looked at them as notification sounded in their ears. [The Immunosar''s Cancer has opened its gaze.] [You have been affected by the curse-type skill: Cancer''s Struggle (E+)] [In 30 minutes, any individual with ranks below E+ will have their flesh transformed into an abomination.] "Is this a joke?" Amelie asked, enough for the others to hear as their rank was definitely above E+ rank at this very moment. But the next notification caused Amelie to retract her words. [If the individual in the area upon the curse activation is above E+ rank, the curse will be transformed into a psychological-type skill: Cancer''s Dream (E+)] [Cancer''s Dream will make the individual fall asleep, dreaming about themselves chased by the Immunosar''s Cancer, not with hostility, but rather with affection.] "Let''s beat the f*ck out of it." Amelie said as her eyes turned ck, as well as her pinkish hair color. It''s her Shade Transformation Skill that was seen by Amery and Freya for the first time. Russell chuckled at Amelie''s words before they mauled the Immunosar''s Cancer until it couldn''t move anymore. ... After at least 15 minutes... [Your Star Quest Party has killed the Boss Monster, Immunosar''s Cancer of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon: Vein of Immunosar (E+)!] "Yes! Sigh... It''s a tough one for an E+ rank Boss Monster. It''s very different with Boss Monsters in the normal Strayed Dungeons, too..." Freya and Amery looked and listened to Amelie who sat on the bloody ground with flesh such as eyes or branch-like legs scattered around. "Ha... I''ve tried raiding a Strayed Dungeon, too. Back when I''m part of... you know. "Well, it''s more like I''m an exception because of my supposed talent my previous boss saw." Shing-! Shing-! Spurt-! Russell ¡ª who just cut the flesh a few times as red blood gushed like a fountain ¡ª took out something from Immunosar''s Cancer''s body. "Is that a Monster Core that Boss Monster only possesses?" Freya asked curiously as she looked at the red glowing orb that was about the size of an ostrich egg. Then, as the first one to explore and killed a Boss Monster in a Micro-Strayed Dungeon, the System notified them of additional rewards. [Your Star Quest Party is now able to open the Treasure Chest of the Small Cell.] "Huh? Where''s that?" It was Amery ¡ª who was silent all the time ¡ª that asked with a slightly wondering tone. As a person who was not talkative, she either was talking in her head or observing the surroundings silently but she didn''t manage to catch a glimpse of something that the System referred to as the Treasure Chest of the Small Cell. Creak-! The circr red door from where they came in slowly creaked and opened, revealing a being that caused Freya and the others except for Russell to reflexively take a defensive stance. "It''s alright, look at the System''s Map." Russell said as he sized up the being standing in front of them, a few meters away. Its body was made of blood as it has no skin or flesh. It has red glowing eyes, standing on its own two feet as its two long hands were holding something... a Treasure Chest! "It''s green." Amery said casually, sizing up the being in front of them which wasbeled by the System as a friendly unit. "Hey, it won''t talk, I''ll take the treasure chest in its hand." After a few seconds, Amelie took the Treasure Chest of the Small Cell cautiously as the being bowed before it vanished. "That''s weird." She said sinctly as she turned around to face herpanions who were eagerly looking at what she was holding. Amelie''s lips curled up. Thud-! "By the way, let''s get out of here first." Russell said as the normal-looking rock they used to enter the Micro-Strayed Dungeon appeared as it formed a portal for their exit. ... Whoosh-! The five of them arrived at the hotel they rented for the night, along with the normal-looking gray rock that vanished into thin air with them as Russell picked it up from the ground. "I''ll put this back in its right ce because someone might get suspicious from above if it took longer being out of ce." Freya and Amery were just about to voice their thoughts or asked why when Amelie''s voice sounded in their ears. "Okay, we''ll open this treasure chest after youe back." She said while putting down the Treasure Chest of the Small Cell with a red appearance as if it''s bathed in blood. It has at least 60 centimeters in length, 45 centimeters wide, and 30 centimeters in height. Russell put out the Mask of Night, wore it, then vanished in front of them. "You know we can take that Strayed Dungeon with us so we can make a raid for it after it regenerated. "It''s very expensive, if not hundreds of billions, is the price of owning a Strayed Dungeon." Freya said with a somewhat gloomy tone with the slipping opportunity to own a Micro-Dungeon. "Hey, Freya, do you think the known Orion Space Station (OSS) hasn''t noticed its disappearance for some time? "We''d get in trouble if we bring it with us, and it would make the excuse of identally stumbling into it go awry. "Also, it would only give us a short amount of time because they''d think that the Mana Energy Flow vanished out of thin air because we cleared the dungeon for the moment we were considered missing until today, but it''s the opposite case where the Mana Energy Flow vanished because we entered it, and not cleared it. "Although we might get questionedter with this slight loophole, it''d be a private matter. So, I know it''s bad to lie to your parents, but at least the authorities wouldn''t tell them anything other than what''s appropriate. "And I''m sure Russell already knew about it... So... don''t stress yourself out, who knows, maybe they''d give the right to us for the Micro-Dungeon or reward us for discovering it." Amelie replied, exining her hypothesis or possibilities of what would happen. Freya''s mouth slightly turned agape as she listened, it was the same with Amery whose quiet again this time, and Estelle who they did not know what was thinking just had her face looking in Amelie''s direction with her eyes under the blindfold. "Amelie, you''re really mature for your age, you know. It''s just I can''t imagine what you''ve been through even if you told me before." Freya recalled the past of Amelie, about being abandoned because of an unexplored profession, living in some sewers until someone picked her up, cing her in the life of the underground business, forced to cry for her ''Dark Tears'' to be sold that gradually killed many. "But you never told us about how you were tasked to assassinate someone, in this area, too." Freya voiced her curiosity, causing Amelie''s lips to curl up. "Ho... Do you really want to know?" Freya didn''t answer while Amery just listened from the side with her hands on the back of her head. Amelie started her story of the assassination. ording to her, it was her third andst assassination before she run away from her boss because she couldn''t take it anymore which included the Dark Tears that were being sold. Freya''s ears and cheeks turned red with some of Amelie''s words, causing her hands to cover her ears while Amery became curious as she asked. "You already have that kind of experience?" "Wow, wow! Amery, why are you asking me that? Is it because we''re all girls here?" Amelie found it surprising that Amery was curious about such a thing. "By the way, no, I haven''t had that kind of experience, it''s just until something like this..." Freya ¡ª who was barely listening with half-closed eyes ¡ª saw Amelie make a gesture with her right thumb and right index finger. Amelie formed a circle through it and matched the shape near her mouth before she slowly move it in an up-and-down direction. Amelie was looking at Freya as she did the gesture, barely containing herself fromughter. "Get away from me! "No, don''te near me! "Get away! "You''re not the cheerful Amelie I know before!" Freya struggled as she stood up and felt repulsed by Amelie''s action. pAn,Da n<0,>v,e1 "Hahaha! "Freya, you''re so cute and innocent!" Amelie said whileughing as her hands were on her abdomen. "You pervert!" Freya''s ears and cheeks were dyed red in embarrassment as she loudly shout. Whoosh-! Russell appeared just on time ¡ª he looked at the scene inside the hotel room. "What happened?" Russell asked in curiosity, but Amelie just brushed it off; Amery remained silent while Freya turned her back, avoiding being seen by her older brother with her tomato face. "Anyway, it''s done. "Time for the harvest." Russell said excitedly as he didn''t pry anymore about what transpired between the women. ... At Outer Space, Post-Emergence Earth''s Atmosphere, Orion Space Station (OSS). "That''s strange..." The man with brown hair, yellowish eyes, and a fitted body detected the Mana Energy Flow again from its original ce via the Orion Obelisk Humanity Satellite Dungeon Detector (OOHSDD). Ring-! Ring-! The man made a call as he reported what he observed as an abnormal urrence or behavior of the Mana Energy Flow. "That''s about all of it, for now, Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster." The man said politely as he hung the call before sitting down on one of the office-like chairs in the spacecraft. Due to his action, he reflexively looks at the gigantic, stretched-out window of the spacecraft, seeing the other parts of the Earth unknown to humanity. "I wonder what would await us." The man muttered as he looked at the different, bizarre phenomenon from far away. One side of the Earth was burning endlessly, while the other side has its full darkness and storms with endless rain. These parts of the Earth could only be seen from the spacecraft''s location, the humanity hasn''t explored the other side of the yet. They were covered in a thick veil of Mana that if the spacecraft or satellite were to cross over, they''d instantly explode. "Too many unknowns, too many mysteries." The man mumbled, feeling somewhat ted with what was in store for humanity. Chapter 98 Return After opening the Treasure Chest of the Small Cell, the loot was distributed evenly although Amelie did most of the work, especially the fight against the Boss Monster, Immunosar''s Cancer just because she got pissed off with the possibility of falling into a dream due to Cancer''s Dream skill it used and being chase by such an abomination, not to hunt her, but rather with affection. The items that each of them received were something that wasn''t seen in the current yer Market, it''s not because they belonged to another category of an item, but rather their looks were kind of peculiar. "Aren''t these items seemed to have a life?" Amelie asked as she fidget something in her hand, seemingly forgetting what just happened earlier before Russell came back from returning the normal-looking gray rock to its initial location. Each of them received a red pill, but it was beating like a heart for some reason. "It seems like an ingredient for making potions." Russell guessed as he inspected again the red pill which has the size of a tennis ball. ... [Blood Clot of Immunosar] Due to the overflow of uninvited guests, blood clots started to develop in Immunosar, causing the red beings to find a way to distribute it outside by shedding the parts where uninvited guests inhabit. Rank: Rare ssification: Consumable (Ingredient) Effects: 1. If the ingredient was directly consumed, the consumer will have their overall stat, aside from Luck and Charm, increased by 10. Can only be consumed once, otherwise, Mana Poisoning would undoubtedly spread. 2. By using it as an ingredient with other alchemical ingredients, its effects will be twice as effective. 3. Upon consuming, whether raw or brewed with others by a great alchemist, the consumer will receive a positive buff for 30 days, having their Stamina Regeneration increased by 10%. The buff duration applies and runs out whether or not the consumer was inside a Micro-Strayed Dungeon. ... "It''s definitely not easy to be strong." Freya said, seemingly avoiding Amelie at the moment as she kept her distance. She also observed the red pill''s details. "I don''t know how to express it, but we got lucky because of Oppa''s Constetion... or else we''d train harder just to get to where we are now." She realized that the effects of the Blood Clot of Immunosar weren''t even worthparing to a slice of the Fruit of Chaos that she consumed with the others, as well as the Chaos Buff that Russell granted to them giving them a hundred and fifty additional overall stat except for Luck and Charm. "Sigh... what''s next, Oppa?" She sighed as she looked at her older brother who was standing still. "Well, Amelie beat up the Boss Monster to death, not giving us the time to receive even minor injuries, but there''s a way... "It''s to tell them the details of the behavior of the micro-monsters. "If it was the known Strayed Dungeons, monsters wouldn''t just stand idly while guarding something, instead they''d attack aimlessly, but during the Micro-Strayed Dungeon, the micro-monsters or the germs didn''t go out of their line and just waited for us to approach them..." Russell exined when Amery interjected. "You mean we ovee the dungeon because of the behavior of monsters?" Russell nodded, while Amelie and Freya also did the same as they understood. "That''s the best we can do for reasoning. "And the next thing will be..." After an unknown period of time, Russell exchanged ideas with the others as the night gradually passed by. ... "Hey! Aren''t they the ones missing for an entire week?" "Oh! You''re right, what happened to them? Their clothes seemed fine to me though?" Students cast their curious gazes at the four students who were reported missing a week ago as they didn''t attend their sses. Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery were walking down the Obelisk Public Grounds with the President of the Disciplinary Committee, Azalea Vermillion leading the way to Vice-Chancellor''s Office, Dexter Rainfall himself. Along the way, with his Perception stat, Russell heard a ridiculous statementing out from some of the students afar as his ears pricked up. "Hey, isn''t he the one who had sex with the former Secretary of the Student Council?" "Yeah, I heard that, too. Victoria seemed to quit the Student Council because someone reported them getting caught in the act!" "This man is lucky, that former Secretary is the icing on the cake, you know." "Hahaha!" Russell''s veins on his forehead bulged with what he heard, seemingly wanting to cut their necks one by one with his nameless Scythe, but he quickly calmed himself down because he knew very well the forces at work behind such rumors. ''It''s that f*cking Arthur Wolfson... Did he use Bailey rkson to spread such rumors?'' But one of the things he noticed was the words regarding Victoria Angelica Rasputin. ''What happened? She already left the Student Council?'' Russell clearly remembered in his unpublished novel that Victoria would only get the interest of the Constetion, ''One Who Peeks on Clock Movement'', just a month or two before her second year ends. This would lead to Arthur''s envy because he thought that it seemed so easy for her to be contracted with a Constetion while Arthur seemed like a puppet for doing a Constetion''s bidding. Russell''s face was painted with confusion which didn''t go unnoticed by Azalea''s perception. "I''ll tell you about itter." She seemed to understand Russell''s concerns as they arrived at the building of Obelisk Faculty Building where faculty offices were located. Standing in the white front door of the Vice-Chancellor''s Office, Azalea knocked and slowly opened the door while Russell and the others were behind. Creak-! The white door creaked slowly as Azalea peeked inside in the gap, checking the people inside. There, a man and a woman were sitting on a couch seemingly feeling unrest, while the Vice-Chancellor was sitting on the seat in front of his desk. "Come in." The dignified voice of a man with silver hair and bluish eyes sounded in their ears. Then after Azalea and the supposedly missing students, the man and the woman on the couch stood up and rushed quickly to the two students that entered. "Freya! Russell!" The two students'' mother hugged them tightly into her embrace while their father stood behind his wife. "Mom..." Freya said softly, holding her tears back from worrying their parents while Russell seemed to feel the same, even though he has a 33-year-old mentality or more than that if he included his age in this world after he reincarnated. It was the love of his parents that he didn''t receive in his previous life. After some time, their mother retracted her hands that were wrapped in her children. Her deep blue eyes looked at Freya and Russell as she asked about what happened, but at that moment, the Vice-Chancellor, offered everyone a seat before they recount what had transpired and encountered. "Miss Melina, please calm down for now. It''s the same for Mister Arche. Let''s take a seat for now." The mother, Melina Moon, and father, Arche Moon, of Russell and Freya, politely obeyed the Vice-Chancellor''s words as he nced at Azalea. "Thank you, Azalea for your work." Vice-Chancellor Dexter Rainfall said, indirectly saying that it was alright for Azalea to leave now. "I''m sorry Vice-Chancellor, but I''m rted to this matter." Even Russell was confused, but he let Azalea say what she wanted. ''It''s maybe because of Junain''s nket.'' He thought inwardly as he didn''t make any eptable excuse for possessing such a costly artifact. The Vice-Chancellor listened as he tapped the desk with his right index fingers. "If you say so... Then, please, can you recount what happened?" Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery looked at each other before Amelie initiated the conversation. ... After an unknown period of time, Vice-Chancellor Dexter pinched his chin with his right index and right thumb as he listened and digest everything that the returning students said. "Correct me if I''m wrong, but the four of you snuck out of the Obelisk Academy because you got curious about the Strayed Dungeon that was detected, but couldn''t be seen? "After that, you used an artifact that Azalea provided because of the connection of the student named Russell with the President of the Disciplinary Committee..." Vice-Chancellor Dexter looked at Azalea, silently waiting for confirmation to which she responded with a nod. "Then, after surveying the area, the student named Amelie suddenly tripped while you all were walking together as a Party under the System. And she tripped because of the normal-looking gray rock which sucked the four of you and transferred into an E+ rank Strayed Dungeon which you cleared by yourselves? "Then why''d you look so fine as if you didn''t struggle at all?" Vice-Chancellor discretely used his Status Appraisal Skill and checked the students'' information, but he never knew that the students have the ability to edit their own Status Windows. ''One F rank, three E rank.'' He inwardly said, bing doubtful of the students'' words, then Amelie answered on their behalf, exining the behavior of the monsters. "Is that so..." The Vice-Chancellor said while Amelie continued. "Vice-Chancellor, we brought the bodies of the monsters and the rewards we''ve acquired after clearing it, would it suffice as evidence of what we struggled with just toe back to our beloved academy?" Amelie said in tears, causing Russell, Freya, and Amery to almost blurt outughing, destroying their excuses, but they managed topose themselves by looking at the floor of the office instead. "But Vice-Chancellor, we believe that the bodies of the monsters wouldn''t be seen by our naked eyes because the System said that what we went through was called a Micro-Strayed Dungeon... Something like that... But maybe I''m wrong because the rewards we received clearly had their size bigger than the gray rock we told you about ifbined... "We also got the Monster Core..." The Vice-Chancellor listened to Amelie before he suggested something. "Alright, let''s go to one of the monster-processing factories to appraise the Monster Core you''ve received." ... "Are you angry, Mom??" Freya asked softly as they walked to go to one of the Obelisk Monster Processing Factories. "...No, I''m just d you all came back, but I was deeply worried. Okay." Meline Moon said with a smile of relief. ... "Father..." Russell said softly while looking at the man with deep ck hair and deep blue eyes which he resembled. "It''s alright, but you worried us, Russell. I know we have the right to be mad at you two, but the moment we saw the two of you again, it was just washed away that the feelings of anger were reced by gratefulness... Just... just be careful next time... and protect your sister. Always." Russell nodded his head as he took to heart what Arche Moon, his father firmly said. He clenched his fist because it was absolutely his fault for not remembering the time difference between the Nether Realm and Earth. ''I''m so f*cking stupid...'' Russell cursed inwardly as realized that it might be a problem in the future that if they needed to go to the Nether Realm, they need to make a reason that they''d be gone for a few days or weeks in Earth''s time unless they told their parents about the changes in them, especially Freya. ''No, it''s dangerous... especially in the future.'' ... After walking for some time under the gazes of most students which included the famous A-1 students such as Samantha, Elizabeth, and Rumia who were just going to their first ss in the morning, they arrived at one of the monster processing factories. "Good morning Vice-Chancellor and... guests. What help should I provide you today?" The frontdy wearing formal attire that seemed out of ce in something like a monster processing factory spoke with a charming tone, greeting the guests. "We need a Monster Core appraised, is anybody avable?" "Hmm. Monster Core Appraisal... Yes, there''s personnel avable already at this hour. Please go to Room 7 of O-UF3." "Alright, thank you." "It''s my pleasure to serve." Thedy said with a smile before they proceeded in an elevator. ''Obelisk ¡ª Underground Floor 3'' Russell thought about the meaning of O-UF3 as they went inside the spacious silvery elevator. ... In Room 7 of O-UF3 Monster Processing Factory "Although it came from E+ rank Boss Monster, it''s considered a High-Grade Core because of its origin andposition..." The appraiser said while wearing a white apron stained with the blood of monsters. "I''ve never seen anything like it... Typically this kind of Monster Core can only be acquired in A rank dungeons..." The Vice-Chancellor looked at Amelie and the other students with a disbelieving expression, seemingly unable to process what these students encountered. Chapter 99 Orb Of Truth "Thank you for amodating us, Vice-Chancellor." Arche Moon, Russell''s and Freya''s father said with a bow after confirming the situation and feeling grateful for their children''s safety. Aside from it, the students who went missing brought back pieces of information that would certainly be of help to authorities. "I apologize for theck of our security. I have no reason to make an excuse." Vice-Chancellor said apologetically, it''s not really because of the Obelisk Academy''s capabilities regarding security, but rather of Junain''s nket that bypassed it, which was provided by Azalea. "No, no. It''s alright..." Arche Moon looked at Russell for a moment before continuing what he was about to say. "I''m d that my son can make social connections in this academy." He''s referring to Russell''s ssmates or especially, the students he and Freya came back with, and Azalea, the one who imed to lend the Junain''s nket. "If you may excuse us, Vice-Chancellor, as parents, we ought to do our jobs, and our duty calls..." Vice-Chancellor Dexter smiled at Arche''s words because, he, too, has a daughter that would attend the Obelisk Academy next academic year. "Alright, thank you for your time, and I hope this incident wouldn''t happen again." After some words of concern, the issue has been resolved... at least superficially. ... "Mom, Dad! Take care, okay!?" Freya said in a slightly loud voice as she waved her hands goodbye, it''s the same for Russell. Normally, parents were not allowed to enter the Obelisk Academy just because they wanted to see their child, but the issues regarding Russell and the others were totally different. Arche looked at Russell to which he responded with a nod. Russell understood what his father''s thoughts were, it was about Freya. ''We''ve advanced in ranks for a short period of time, but that''s about it...'' Russell thought inwardly, although they received help from their Constetions, they couldn''t just be stronger quickly unless they made an effort for it, training themselves and raiding dungeons. The help provided by their Constetions also served as a stepping stone and great leap... at least at this point in time because the moment Close Mystery Towers open, other people, students or not would certainly stumble into mysteries that would help them grow may be stronger than their current them. ''But it''s the nature of power that''s one of the ultimate deciders in a fight.'' He added in his mind as he saw the disappearing backs of their parents. Then a captivating voice of a woman entered their ears. "Russell... the Vice-Chancellor has requested a summon for all of you." ... Inside the Vice-Chancellor''s Office, a man in hisboratory coat was standing beside Vice-Chancellor Dexter as he ced a transparent orb atop the side of the desk. It''s the Orb of Truth that has a multipurpose usage such as interviewing the students that admitted to the academy and getting out the truth about criminals thatmitted heinous crimes. The Orb of Truth was a Legendary rank artifact that came from the Peak Dungeon Tower called Lair of Allihad, Drake of Truth. It was cleared by the famous guilds roughly a few years ago that took at least 6 months to finish which included the resupplying of resources. It took that long not because the famous yers or rankers were weak, but because of the certain conditions that were imposed on them upon raiding the dungeon tower. Knock-! Knock-! "Come in." Azalea peek in a little gap before she signaled the students behind her. Afterpletely opening the white door that creaked slightly, Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery entered and took their seats on a couch while they immediately recognized the figure standing beside Vice-Chancellor Dexter. A man with slightly long but not considered short ck hair and ckish eyes wearing retro eyesses. ''Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster...'' The trio of women also recognized the orb in the table, it''s the Orb of Truth they used when getting interviewed for important information regarding their Status Window, it''s because that peeking in one''s Status Window was against the academy''s admittance rules, they were instead asked about the important stat which was called Mana Power and their profession. "Hmm... I''m sure every one of you knows the figure beside me, and this artifact on my desk. "It''s not that we don''t trust our students, but we needed to make sure to confirm everything for a second time under this artifact. "Remember, the answer that one of you provided will be counted as all of your answers. Alright. "Then, I''ll exin again how this artifact works. This artifact is called the Orb of Truth, the one who will answer the questions will ce both their hands on it. "If the Orb of Truth glowed golden upon answering a question, it means that you are telling the truth. "If it glowed ck, then you are telling a lie, but if it glowed golden tainted with ck, it means that you are somehow telling the truth but with a mix of a lie. "...Alright, who is the one who will answer?" After looking at each other, Amelie volunteered with enthusiastic behavior. "Hmm... I see, then Ms. Amelie, will you ce your hands on top of it." After Amelie came forward and ce her hands on top of the Orb of Truth, the questioning began. ... "Did the four of you really sneak out of the Obelisk Academy?" Although Junain''s nket could provide such help, the Vice-Chancellor asked such a question as he might think that some other factor must have happened. Azalea felt somehow curious and yet pressured. After all, if Amelie''s words turned out to be a lie, she''d get a penalty for lying because she imed responsibility for the artifact. "Yes, Vice-Chancellor." Woong- Woong- The Orb of Truth made a woong sound then it glowed golden, causing Azalea''s eyes to slightly dte and her eyebrows pricked up. ''...What? They''re clearly lying, though.'' Although she didn''t know how these four students disappeared from within the Obelisk premises, she knew based on Russell''s request for Junain''s nket to be used to cover the true method or way how they vanished. "You''re telling the truth, Ms. Amelie. "Then, how about you... Disciplinary Committee President..." Azalea''s mind turned nk, but Amelie didn''t mind it as she realized that even though the answer of one means the answer of them all, it didn''t mean that she''d be the only one who would go under such questioning. Although Azalea''s thoughts started to race, she didn''t say anything as she ced her hands on top of the Orb of Truth after Amelie released hers. "Ms. Azalea, are you really the owner of the artifact, Junain''s nket, that helped them sneak out of the academy?" If Azalea answered Yes, it wouldn''t be true anymore because the System now recognized Russell as the true owner of the artifact, but if she answered No, and the Orb of Truth recognized it as Truth, there''d be a loophole to what she told earlier about being responsible for it. ''I can''t just say that I sold it to them because its cost is something these kids wouldn''t be able to afford.'' Then at that moment, a System message that only she could see appeared on her side, she quickly skimmed through it, prompting her to look at Russell and the trio of women wearing unknown expressions with disbelief. ''What kind of weird...'' [Freya Moon has requested you to join a Party.] [Would you ept?] [Yes or No] It''s different from the Star Quest Party that Freya leads because that would make Azalea fall under a Soul Contract which she wouldn''t be able to leave. ''I ept.'' She said inwardly, feeling resigned to the peculiar acts of these students. Then, she read the Party Chat that the System provided if the group of people was at a Party. It''s different from Telepathy that Russell could use with his Chaos Companions. This Party Chat could be operated through one''s thoughts. [Russell Moon: Answer Yes.] [Amelie Rose Merveil: Heh...] [Freya Moon: Trust Oppa!] After a few seconds, she sighed before looking at the Orb of Truth. "Yes." Woong- Woong- The Orb of Truth normally glowed golden, without a mix of a lie. Azalea flinched slightly with the result, but as an experienced woman in various fields and the mysterious owner of the Thorn of Rose ck Market, sheposed herself skillfully. But her thoughts weren''t on the Orb of Truth''s result, but rather the four subsequent notifications that sounded in her ears the moment she answered ''Yes.'' [Russell Moon''s ###: ??? has ### ### the lie you have just told.] [Freya Moon''s ###: ??? has ### ### the lie you have just told.] [Amelie Rose Merveil''s ###: ??? has ### ### the lie you have just told.] [Amery Blight''s ###: ??? has ### ### the lie you have just told.] Azalea looked at the four students, sitting idly on a couch in disbelief. It''s the first time in her life she encountered something like this... ''As if the System just broke...'' It was what her sights saw, but for Russell and the others, the System message they received looked like this: [Your Trait: Nihility haspletely concealed the lie that Azalea Vermillion has just told.] ... Amelie asked via Telepathy using the connection through being a Chaos Companion. Freya and Amery also heard Amelie''s voice in their heads. Russell said in a way that he believed that''s the case, but he was certain because he knew the existence of the Mirror Dimension and Arcana World, and also the owner of the Eye of the Mirror Reality. Eye of the Mirror Reality reflects the true nature of things but could be blocked by the Nihility trait ording to what Verg-Or said which Russell put his trust because if Verg-Or lied to a Death Executioner, he''d be sent to Nether Torturers and be tormented to eternity especially the Ruler of Death''s gaze was cast on the Nether Realm every second. Amelie said poignantly. ... After an unknown period of time of somehow friendly interrogation, Amelie asked with anticipation. "Vice-Chancellor... Sir Emmanuel, about our discovery of a Micro-Strayed Dungeon that''s the first time in the history of humanity, would we be the owner of it? "You see sirs, we could actually bring that gray rock here, but we left them there and rushed here after we got out of it..." This time, Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster spoke in a formal tone. "ording to Orion''s Law of yers, Article 5, yer''s Exploration, the exclusive rights will be transferred to the first discoverer of any kind of Strayed Dungeon and Dungeon Towers. Thus, all of you will be given the rights to it. "But, as a schr and researcher, if you wanted to, the Obelisk Organization would like to buy the rights of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon you identally stumbled upon." He said in a way that could somewhat entice the students into selling it, but his thoughts were in a race as various hypotheses became clear to him under the Orb of Truth''s earlier response. ''That''s why it couldn''t be seen. It''s so small, like a normal-looking rock. It would be of great help for our research, too!'' Amelie looked at Russell, Freya, and Amelie and they only nodded in response. "Sir... we have no idea about the transactions between dungeon rights, and its price..." "500 billion." Russell, Freya, Amelie, Amery, Azalea, and even Vice-Chancellor Dexter''s ears pricked up, seemingly unable to believe the price that Sir Emmanuel offered. Normally, dungeon rights that cost 500 billion were in the realm of A+ rank, but considering the Monster Core of high quality, equivalent to A rank Boss Monster, it''s somewhat reasonable. "You know that Strayed Dungeons respawn or regenerate after some time..." "1 trillion." Russell interjected but restrained himself fromughing. These offers barely came or happen anymore unless a person was a conglomerate, negotiating rights. Because of the existence of the Orion Obelisk Station (OSS), and the sci-fi-like way of discovering dungeons through Orion Obelisk Humanity Satellite Dungeon Detector (OOHSDD), an unaffiliated yer has almost zero percent chance of discovering a dungeon first, but this time, with the unusual existence of a small dungeon that looked like a rock, which the authorities didn''t expect, some group of students managed to discover it first out of curiosity, at least that was what other people believed. Sir Emmanuel and the others looked at Russell with shocked expressions, seemingly feeling absurd with the price that match an S rank dungeon. "Sir, ording to what we''ve learned from Dungeon Geographical System, the monsters and structure of the dungeon y a very important role in the nature of the dungeon itself. We also learned that the average regeneration of Strayed Dungeon is 4 days minimum, 7 days maximum, and half a month for Dungeon Towers, one month for High Dungeon Towers, and a month and a half for Peak Dungeon Towers regardless of the environment or nature of them. "This is just my guess, Sir, but I believe the so-called Micro-Strayed Dungeon that we stumbled upon regenerates itself in less than a day." ''Of course, this is not a guess, I designed Micro-Strayed Dungeons with the inspiration of Biology... just like cells and germs rapidly born and spreads, it''s the same with Micro-Strayed Dungeons.'' Russell thought inwardly, seemingly wanting to jump with anticipation of money that he momentarily forgot his investment in Crescent Weaponry Company. Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster chuckled with Russell''s im of dungeon regeneration in less than a day, but with the existence of the newly discovered Micro-Strayed Dungeon, it wasn''t an Impossibility. "Alright, but how did youe to the such hypothesis?" He asked with anticipation, somewhat feeling ted with possibilities because if the Micro-Strayed Dungeon could really regenerate in less than a day, they''d be able to send affiliated yers to raid it at least two or three times a day. "Because of monsters'' names and environment... I believe they were based on Neo-Biology." Russell said with a smile, as money started to flood his mind. Chapter 100 Black Sky Disorder "Germs... and Cell stuff. It''s fascinating!" It has been a day since the students came back from being missing after they were sucked inside a new type of dungeon that''s from the micro-universe. The Obelisk Organization branch, the ones assigned to research, specifically towards discovering the mysteries behind the catastrophe that plunged the world forty years ago, already managed to take the normal-looking gray rock from the part of the East Border of Olympia which separates the country from Nereia. The researcher and schr, standing by the window, looking at the spacious white room from below where the normal-looking gray rock that hebeled as MSD-1 or Micro-Strayed Dungeon One was ced inside a ss capsule. The Affiliated, trusted yers from the Obelisk Organization already raided the said Micro-Strayed Dungeon, the observation also showed the average time of dungeon regeneration was a quick 6 hourspared to what was known to them, which means that the MSD-1 could be raided four times a day. The yers from the Obelisk Organization received various rewards and Monster Cores, but the strange thing about the MSD-1 was that it didn''t have something that''s known as the ''Heart'' of the Dungeon called Dungeon Core. The absence of the Dungeon Core was also one of the reasons that Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster valued this discovery, maybe more than a trillion. "Send the money to those students, 250 million each as per their request, do it confidentially to avoid greed from other people''s eyes." The students or discoverer of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon came to an agreement with Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster that they''d try to raid, and observe first the dungeon. A woman with slightly long hair, brown eyes under her gray eyesses, and a somehow curvy body wearing a ck formal suit befitting of being a secretary spoke with concern. "Sir, what should we do? Those students lied about something." Upon the observation of the Mana Energy Flow of the MSD-1, Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster discovered that the dense Mana Energy Flow, along with the MSD-1 vanished. He saw with his own eyes that the affiliated yers, as well as the MSD-1, disappeared, it''s the same case with the device that closely observes the Mana Energy Flow which was supposed to be dense due to a dungeon''s existence. It contradicts the report from the Obelisk Space Station (OSS) floating in the atmosphere of the where a crew designated to monitor the Orion Obelisk Humanity Satellite Dungeon Detector (OOHSDD) because, in the report, it was said that the night the Mana Energy Flow vanished for a few minutes... it was the day before the students came back which means that the days prior to the vanishing of MSD-1 during that time, the students weren''t really sucked inside of the MSD-1. "It''s alright, just let them go. I don''t know what they''re hiding, but what''s important right now is to focus on this matter in front of us." Although Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster was curious about the students'' secrets, especially when the Legendary Artifact, Orb of Truth, showed them that the students were obviously telling the truth. "Perhaps they know that we''d know about this matter. But looking at their expressions when we talked about money... I believe that they won''t pose a threat that would backfire on humanity if left unchecked. Those students probably wanted to enjoy their lives at some point in time." The secretary only listened before she tapped on the tablet she was holding, sending the money to the students who stumbled upon a great discovery. "By the way, request a virtual meeting. I''d announce what has transpired recently." Sir Emmanuel said casually as his hands sped together on his lower back, looking at the next batch of affiliated yers who would raid the Vein of Immunosar (E+) from the window. ... "We''re f*cking rich! Whooo!" Amelie jumped on Russell''s couch while Freya and Amery were sitting on it. Russell was in the kitchen, preparing their simple lunch when he heard Amelie''s cheerful voice, it was apanied by the sound of a notification from his smartwatch. [You have received 250 billion Obel from the ount Number: XXXX-XXXX-0033] After a few minutes of preparing, Russell went to the living room just beside his bedroom, as a few tes of rice, tempura, and bacon wereid on the rectangr table. He saw his younger sister with tears and Amery was in a state of nkness, silently remembering the orphanage that raised her after her parents died from the mysterious, purple-eyed assant that spared her life for unknown reasons. "O-Oppa..." Russell approached his younger sister and extended his arms to hug her to which Freya responded. "Sob... Sob..." She couldn''t maintain her tears of joy as she said in a soft voice while still digging her head into her older brother''s chest. "O-Oppa... let''s ask Mom and Dad to resign..." Russell smiled as he had the same thoughts, with so much money, they''d be able to live afortable life, but after remembering the events that would ur, money won''t solve everything in this kind of world. Even wealthy people like Elizabeth and Rumia who had trillions of personal assets wouldn''t be able to be stronger just by having their money because they couldn''t have their growth rate increased anymore as Treasure Herbs of the same type that were very rare could only be consumed once. And if by any chance there were different Treasure Herbs, it was not guaranteed that they would be effective due to various or hidden factors, and they were not the only people who needed such a thing, thuspetition for acquiring Treasure Herbs that increases one''s growth rate even by a minimal amount were fierce and sometimes leads to making enemies. Russell reined in his thoughts before he calmly said, rubbing Freya''s back. "Let''s eat for now, okay... We''ll talk about it after." Freya nodded before she retracted her head from her older brother''s chest. ... After a few minutes of wolfing down their lunch, Russell initiated the conversation, particrly about their parents. "Freya, I think we should help them, but not ask them to resign because I know that you know Mom and Dad felt indebted to Old Cal... We are, too..." It was an old man called Old Cal who saw the value of their parents, when they were living in that ce, who somehow helped them be financially stable, letting Russell and Freya be able to enroll in the Obelisk Academy. Old Cal was an owner of a small cksmithingpany, and Melina Moon has a profession called Transmuter, while Arche Moon has a normal cksmith profession. Melina and Arche were doing their job together. As a Transmuter, Melina made raw ores or cksmithing materials to shape a weapon or armor that would be hammered by Arche. It means that Arche didn''t need to heat and shape a weapon or armor for a long time as Melina could just transform it to the desired shape. "Oppa... hmm... okay, let''s help them together soon." Freya said as she thought of it for a few seconds. Upon seeing the sudden pause of conversation between the siblings, Amelie interjected. "Russell, what about our investment in the Crescent Weaponry Company?" Russell was snapped out of his thoughts as he heard Amelie''s voice. ''It''s less than a week since the attack will take ce.'' He deliberated for a moment before answering Amelie. "I''ll add investment to the stocks." "Me, too! Count me in then!" Amery just watched Russell, Amelie, and Freya who soon also interjected do something on aptop. It was something she had no idea about. ... "It''s 75 billion overall." ''If it''s not from Thorn of Rose transaction, we''d surely be tracked by authorities.'' Russellmpooned inwardly, but he somehow felt grateful for the Thorn of Rose''s privacy that was considered deadly if intruded. "Sigh... Russell, can I sleep here for a moment? I''m d we were excused for a few days. Well, I can''t me them, they thought we needed a mental break for some time." Yesterday, after sealing the initial deal with Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster, they were told to rest for a few days first before returning to ss. Freya''s eyes constricted with Amelie''s words, but she still felt awkward and repulsed with Amelie the night before they returned. ''What''s with these two?'' Russell thought as his nce darted around between his younger sister and Amelie. ''I guess it''s girls'' business. Better not to pry into it.'' ... [Breaking News!] The Crescent Weaponry Company has been attackedst night by a group of armed yers! The new weapons to be soon released have all been stolen! Its ranks range from A- to S+ with worth at least 250 trillion Obel! The number of casualties hasn''t been confirmed yet. ... [Breaking News!] Crescent Weaponry Company''s stocks have reached an all-time low as investors started to pull out their money! ... [Breaking News!] The Terrorist Organization of yers calling themselves ck Sky Disorder has imed responsibility for the attack! After a few hours of the attack, it''s been confirmed that a total of 243 had died as a fight ensued inside the weapon facility. ... A few days had passed since their return to the Obelisk Academy, and after their sses ended, Russell return to his dorm along with his always-women visitors ¡ª who, for some reason ¡ª don''t want their very dorm rooms to be a ce to be flocked in. "Russell, what happened to our money?" Amelie asked as she, Russell, and Freya bought stocks worth 75 billion. She didn''t expect that such an incident would happen a few days after their return. Russell pondered for a little, he didn''t know what reactions he should have because in the first ce he wasn''t like someone with a heroplex who knew some fragments of the future and then tried to stop it. ''I am anything, but that.'' He said inwardly, though he felt some sympathy for unknown people who died from the attack he knew that wasing, as long as his family andpanions weren''t affected even in the slightest way, he won''t make a move. ''It''s not like I can fight them myself. They aren''t even based in the Orion Continent.'' The ck Sky Disorder was the organization that was the opposite of the Obelisk Organization, which alsoprised of yers with high ranks but wanted more power and chaos as their Constetions were leaning on the evil side. "...Hmm. Our money has a sudden increase of hundreds of percent... and I already pulled it out in case someone from thepany would notice it, though it was from the Thorn of Rose, it''s better to leave quickly than to get suspected." He said as he looked at Amelie, sitting cross-legged on his couch, while Amery was sitting, at the same time, sleeping on the couch with a pillow on her head, probably because of her satiated hunger. Freya ¡ª who summoned Estelle ¡ª was cleaning the dishes. "Then... how much did we make?" Amelie asked with anticipation, and after a few seconds, Russell sighed before he replied. "Roughly 550 billion including our initial investment." "Th-that''s a lot!" Amelie blurted out which causes a mild reaction from the sleeping Amery. After observing Amelie''s reaction, Russell asked something he became curious about. "Amelie... how do you feel about the people that died?" She looked at Russell and saw that he was waiting for a genuine answer, prompting her to wear a serious expression... She deliberated before she said in a casual, womanly voice. "To be honest, I don''t care about them. Although I told you before that I don''t want to be a natural evil because of my Dark Tears that already took many lives, it doesn''t mean that I should care about everybody that I don''t even know. As long as what I treasure the most isn''t being swept through it, it doesn''t matter to me." ''I see... she has the same perspective as me.'' Freya ¡ª who was washing the dishes with Estelle ¡ª somewhat heard the conversation between the two, then as if a light was turned on in her head, an idea about what to do about their sudden prosperity surfaced in her mind. ... Room 1 of the Rigel Building, Samantha''s Dorm. Sitting on her bed after she ate alone this time, shemunicated with a being inside her. Samantha Hall asked in her head, it''s been some time since Russell and the others came back to the ss, and she noticed that the Constetion inside of her, at least that''s what she presumed, was being quiet in front of a man with deep ck hair, deep blue eyes, and average features. Samantha noticed this behavior because whenever she''d interact with people, the dignified, womanly voice in her head always made remarks about the person she interacts with, but it was different recently. During the first time she met Russell on the Obelisk Tracking Field, the voice in her head wasn''t awake, but rather in slumber, and it was not like she was chasing Russell. The dignified, womanly voice replied. Samantha asked curiously as she swept a nce in her dorm room. Samantha''s mind turned nk with the answer she just heard. ---+ ---+ ---+ Author''s Note: Dear Readers, If you are reading up to this point, thank you for reaching the hundred chapter! Anyway, a few chapters left before the end of Volume 1: The Familiar yet Different World. Interactions between the main characters of the original novel; Samantha, Elizabeth, Rumia, Jiho, and Leon will be highlighted soon. For now, I focused on the development of Amelie and Amery as everyone has their role in the story, especially in the long run. Again, thank you! Chapter 101 Books Looking at the mirror with a towel wrapped around her body, letting the drops of water on her tinum hair drip on the floor while her ruby eyes reflected on themselves, Azalea''s mind seemed outside of reality as she stared nkly at herself as various thoughts flooded in her mind, her senses adrift. She recalled the recent conversation she just had with Russell. A very unexpected connection she made during the Ranking of Exchange that was held as a way to remember the 40th year of the Emergence. ... The day of Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery''s return. "It seems like the Student Council President had something against you." Azalea, sitting on the chair while her elbows were on the desk, said casually, but with a hint of curiosity to the man with deep ck hair and deep blue eyes sitting on a couch in front of her. After the transaction about the Micro-Strayed Dungeon, Azalea asked for Russell to be alone so that they could talk about what transpired during the days Russell and the others were missing. "Why did the Secretary of the Student Council resign her position?" Russell asked, seemingly not caring about what Azalea just said regarding the Student Council President. Azalea just brushed off Russell''s way of changing the conversation, then after sighing for a moment, she said what happened just before the battle between Russell and Bailey rkson, the former A-1 ss. "I see... technically, you made a bet because you were bored that time. If he won, he''d receive an artifact he desperately wanted, then if you won, you would be granted a wish, specifically by letting Victoria leave the Student Council because she became ufortable after it was heard that she was being eyed by a Constetion... and you didn''t expect that I''d win that fight." Azalea nodded at Russell''s words. ''In other words, it''s because of me that this happened.'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he came to the realization, but he also thought that Victoria became closer with Azalea, along with Aisha, the Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee. "That''s about it, and then, the seemingly envious Arthur caused him to use someone to spread the rumors about you and Victoria having an affair. Since then, Victoria has been at the center of rumors, affecting her mentally and academically." Russell was thinking about Victoria, to be specific, the personality he wrote about her in his unpublished novel. ''She''s a very timid person, but somewhat knows her duty, that''s why she could stand in front of many people if it''s her job to do so. Although she''s timid, not to the point of having social anxiety like me before, she''s very different when she bes angry or loses her patience.'' Russell remembered Aisha Whispercrest, the Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee with the personality of a joker, but contrary to her joker demeanor, she''s a right-hand woman of Azalea. ''Victoria and Aisha are like cats and dogs.'' Russell let out a self-deprecatingugh in his mind as he thought randomly before he looked at Azalea, waiting for his response. "Don''t do anything about the rumors. We''ll handle it ourselves." He said casually as he looked at the chandelier hanging inside the Disciplinary Committee Office. "By ourselves, you mean with your younger sister, and the other two?" She asked with curiosity, but within her, she was enjoying having a conversation with a person in front of her sight because it''s something that''s nothing to do with business which she usually does especially as the owner of the Thorn of Rose or being the President of the Disciplinary Committee. "No, not my younger sister. "Anyway, thank you for your help, I''ll see myself out." Russell said after he''s done hearing about Victoria and the rumors spread about them, probably through Bailey rkson''s mouth that was nted by a psychological cue to spread such rumors discreetly. "Wait! It''s my turn to ask!" Azalea firmly said, Russell was halfway from standing up from his seat, then he paused after hearing the Disciplinary Committee''s President''s words. Although there were many questions in her mind, she started with a broad one. "Who are you, really? "How did you know about the Four Seeds of Direction which I needed? "And the System message earlier during the moment I''m about to answer Vice-Chancellor''s Dexter, it was the first time I encountered a somewhat coded message..." She asked subsequent questions, one after the other, which confused Russell. "What do you mean by a coded message from the System?" He took an interest in Azalea''s words. "Hmm... the System messages said that you, your younger sister, and the other two women with you whose name I couldn''t quite remember, did something... but the System message was like broken. All I read were the words that say about the lie that I just told at the moment..." "Interesting..." Russell muttered, but it was enough for Azalea to hear what came out of his mouth. ''Did our Nihility trait also conceal about itself when the other person didn''t have a Chaos Trait? ''Well, I have a n of divulging about it with someone without Chaos Trait, even though I know Azalea''s identity as the owner of the Thorn of Rose to be used to ckmail her, it''s not worth it.'' Russell didn''t have second thoughts as he replied to Azalea. "I have no idea about that. "There are many mysteries that aren''t solved or discovered yet, so maybe one day ''we'' will get the answer to your question." He deliberately used the pronoun ''we'' to avoid being suspected that he''s not interested in the slightest about Azalea''s curiosity. "By the way, I almost forgot, do you know the boss that sells Dark Tears?" He''s not concealing the fact that he knows such a thing, letting himself be known at least to Azalea that he knows some things. "Yes, I know him. Why do you ask?" "That''s good, can you make a transaction with him... tell him that I''ll pay for Amelie''s freedom so that he''d stop sending someone after her..." After their pictures were posted because they were missing, Amelie''s former boss in the underground business probably made some arrangements to extract or get Amelie back. "I''ll send you 50 billion, which is clear enough, you see, we would earn quite a lot, maybe tomorrow... "And... if by any chance the boss that manages the Dark Tears break his soon-to-be tacit agreement... don''t expect a quick passing of misery..." ... At present. ''Amelie... the pink-haired woman with ruby eyes that''s one of Russell''spanions...'' She thought as she recalled the name of the woman ording to Russell''s words, she also received 50 billion and already made a transaction with Amelie''s boss. The response was good, and the deal was easily closed as Azalea used her secret identity like ''being requested by Rose'', it just means that it''s amand from the owner of the Thorn of Rose. ''In the end, he didn''t answer my questions about how did he know about the Four Seeds...'' Knock-! Knock-! Azalea woke up from her stupor, cutting off her thoughts as she heard a knock on her door, she quickly put some clothes on and opened the door to her dorm room. "Victoria? What happened?" Victoria Angelica Rasputin, the second year, former Secretary of the Student Council, was crying as her blue eyes sparkled as if it was undergoing crystalization, and her slightly long blonde hair seemed down, matching the woman''s emotional state. "Come in." Azalea put one of her hands on Victoria''s shoulder as she invited her toe in while hearing some sobs from the woman. "Sob... sob..." "Hey, calm down... tell me what happened." Victoria recounted what happened with a heavy heart. ... "He said that he''ll make the rumors go away if you ask me for an artifact... "He said that''s what friends are for, helping each other..." ''But that artifact belongs to Russell now, and he specifically asked for it.'' As if a light bulb appeared on her head, Azalea realized something. ''He knows... he knows the true face of Arthur.'' "A-Azalea... I feel disillusioned... I-I thought he was a good man. "B-but it''s all his front." Victoria said with a cracking voice. "W-why don''t we expose him?" It''s easy to do if the person doing it didn''t consider every possible angle, but Azalea knew better that Arthur Wolfson has a very good public image and that exposing him would certainly just backfire. "No, just lie low for now... By the way, I know the man you''re rumored with, so don''t worry. It''lle to pass..." Azalea said as she rubbed Victoria''s back who only listened to her captivating voice as if Victoria was being enticed unknowingly. ... "You''re really cunning and observant, my daughter." A woman with red hair and red eyes was lying on her bedfortably as she seemed to hear her father''s voice in her head, randomly recalling a certain moment. "Russell Moon, Chancellor Alexander, Arthur Wolfson..." Anya Amasawa muttered the name of the people she was silently observing unintentionally. She was praised by her father, Makoto Amasawa, for her natural observation skills. And as a woman who barely speaks in front of other people, she''s used to talking to herself, not silently. "Russell Moon, weird, probably holding many secrets. "Arthur Wolfson, probably a two-faced bastard. "And Chancellor Alexander... whosest name is Akalchet... a very alienst name and personality that seems not to really care about Obelisk students..." Talking in the air was a habit of Anya Amasawa that if she was seen by other people not rted to her in any way, she''d probably bebeled as crazy, but there''s a creepy truth behind her self-talking tendencies when she''s alone. She''s seeing numerous red eyes around her that seemed appeared from the space itself, looking and silently listening to her words. ... In Freya''s dorm room. sses already ended as though time passed only in a minute, after their lunch break when they checked the result of stocks, granting them riches, they attended their respective elective sses which also ended quickly. "Oppa... I checked the item information of the items I acquired inside the Treasure Chest with a Living Eye. "They are mostly books about the Nether Realm, descriptions about the beings living... or should I say dying there? Haha." Freya made a silly joke which was uncharacteristic of her, prompting Amelie who is, at this moment, making their early dinnerugh, while Amery was training in her dorm room''s Personal Training Ground. It''s just the three of them this time. "Oppa! Why don''t youugh ha? "Anyway, kidding aside, the titles of the books are the following..." Freya shared the information via Star Quest Party, thus the informationid bare to their sights. [Nether Creatures Bestiary (Ancient)] [Nether Regions and Geography (Ancient)] [Ruling as Death Executioner Guide (Ancient)] [Expanding Regions Guide (Ancient)] [Guide to Soul Realm (Ancient)] ... "Poor you, Freya." Russell said, seemingly having sympathy towards his younger sister, but his tone was sarcastic. "It''s like being a student with additional five subjects atop your original subjects." He chuckled, although he missed high school life, especially in this kind of world where the lessons were vastly different than the ones he experienced prior to his reincarnation, he''d never want to study many, necessary things at the same time. Freya didn''t give a rebuttal because her older brother''s words made sense. "Oppa, I received some other things, too." She said casually, then shared the information with them. [Nether Realm Store Ticket (Unholy) (Permanent)] [Nether Market Ticket (Ancient) (4)] [Nether Bone (Unholy) (10000)] [Nether Tree Branch (Unholy) (10000)] [Nether nks (Unholy) (10000)] [Nether...] Russell''s eyes widened as he read the information about the items, specifically the Nether Market Ticket that''s four in pieces. Chapter 102 Prelude To A Certain Incident The difference between the Nether Realm Store Ticket and Nether Store Ticket was that the former was exclusive to be essed by a Death Executioner, and any items sold there could only be of any use to a Death Executioner while thetter was a gathering of sorts essible with Death Executioner''spanions. As Russell skimmed through the information that his older sister had shared with them via Star Quest Party, Freya grumbled with random items she received. "Oppa, I feel like being an owner of a constructionpany with these woods of some sort. How do I use them, by the way?" Freya asked, pursing her lips, and continuing to browse the information about the items she acquired from the treasure box. "Well, you''re in control of a specific region, you should know by now the state of outside the City of Forgetfulness, or even within the city, which somewhat isn''t properly taken care of. "I don''t know myself, just study the guidebooks you received, my smarty sister." Russell heard a ''tsk''ing out of Freya''s mouth, prompting him to chuckle a little as Amelie arrived from the kitchen, holding three slightly big tes of meals in her hands as if she were a skilled waitress, serving her guests. ... "Hup-!" Bam-! Inside his Personal Training Ground, Han Jiho cleaved down one of the sturdy training dummies with one of the sturdy training swords weighing at least 3 kilograms. It''s been at least two weeks since the Emergence Anniversary ended and at least a week since some supposedly missing students returned, bearing some discoveries, but during those times, all he thought about was the way he lost to Samantha during the exhibition battle on thest day of the Emergence Remembrance Event. "As if my trait has been nullified..." He muttered in thin air as he took a short distance between himself holding the sturdy training sword and the sturdy training dummy. It''s been some time since his trait, Will of the Sword (SSS) has regained its effectiveness, allowing him to adapt in any battle, the longer it is being fought. Han Jiho even asked about such power, but even Alexander didn''t know such a thing. ''Or maybe he lied to me again.'' For some reason, recently, Han Jiho felt that there was something about Alexander. Learning about the way of life outside of Sanctus Sris, the secluded vige he came from that was almost destroyed by Monster Stampede, and through making connections with people with high status that didn''t matter to someone like him, but still respects it, he became curious about the case of Monster Stampede that struck his vige 11 years ago as he brought the topic with Elizabeth and Rumia just recently in which he received a reply of unawareness. ''They''re Princesses, yet they didn''t know such an incident took ce...'' Bam-! He thought inwardly as he swung the sturdy training sword he was holding. But at some point, Han Jiho realized that maybe not everything could be made known to the Princesses... that maybe it was their parents who knew something about the tragedy that took his parents out of this world. Ding-! A notification sounded in his ears as a message, not from the System, but the smartwatch that Alexander provided cut off his inner thoughts. Han Jiho looked at the content of the message, and its sender and then saw Anya Amasawa''s name. ... "I feel like there''s so much happening this week. "Although most students are not aware of it, we''ve got essed to that information even though we don''t even want to hear it." Rumia said as shey down on the couch, not of her own, but rather of Elizabeth. She just visited her bestfriend since her childhood. Elizabeth didn''t find Rumia''s visit unusual, but rather it was her tone of exhaustion and the direction of conversation Rumia was discussing out of nowhere. A few days ago, the missing students returned safely, and the information about what had transpired was kept confidential for some reason. It was the subjects of the case that only knew the details, but due to each of their connections, Rumia and Elizabeth were told about what happened to Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery, their ssmates with whom they shared a bond only because of Samantha who inadvertently acts as a mediator. "Mom says it''s called Micro-Strayed Dungeon and it can be moved because it''s so small just like a normal-looking gray rock." Elizabeth said casually, but her mind was somewhat adrift, it''s because she knows her mother, Eliana von Etherion''s Constetion which was purely rted to the micro of things, unseen by naked eyes. "But it''s strange how Russell, his sister, and the other two women left the academy just because they got curious about such news, right?" Rumia said while looking at the ceiling of Elizabeth''s dorm. "Why do you think of that? Do you think they know beforehand about its existence, it''s unlikely. "Although we are being dense to their existence, I''m sure you are aware that we have shadows tailing us anytime that investigate people of unknown origin that interacted with us, you know. "And I''m sure we will be informed in some way if people like Russell are found suspicious." Elizabeth replied, still casually, but somewhat firm as she stood from her bed to reach out ab under one of her desks. Rumia nodded at the other Princess'' words before she said in a solemn voice. "We are Princesses, after all." Then she nced at one of the windows and saw the illumination of the bluish moon in the starry night sky. "Anyway, Elizabeth..." "Stop calling me that when we''re alone." Elizabeth interjected, cutting the words that Rumia attempted to say. "Right... you don''t like how your first name has four sybles... "Anyway, Liz, by any chance, have you received a message about some death row prisoners that we are asked to kill after the midterm exams?" Rumia said seriously as she retracted her gaze outside the window and straightly looked at Elizabeth''s light green eyes that seemed to reflect the abundance of nature itself. One of their training, in psychological aspect when they were just kids, started when they received the System at the age of 7, was killing guilty prisoners that received capital punishment or in other words, being sentenced to death. Elizabeth pondered for some time before she nodded her head. "Yes, and we are asked to prepare for that, you know, the stronger we be, the stronger the death row prisoners we would eventually fight." Elizabeth said firmly whilebing her blonde hair as she sat on her bed in a lotus position. "Hmm... I wonder if our parents really love us." Rumia randomly said in a soft voice, prompting Elizabeth to stopbing her hair upon hearing those words. "They do. It''s just we are the kind of Princesses that are raised in a way that''s not found in a fairytale." Elizabeth said with a faint smile on her lips. ... "Sir Arthur, I''m sorry for being out of reach these past few days since I just got back from my little reconnaissance." Amelie said while genuflecting in front of Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President. "Hahaha! You''re an adventurous kid, aren''t you? "So, what does your so-called ''little reconnaissance'' aplish then?" This time, he''s with other members of the Weaver Faction with Amelie, but Reinhardt and Ruina weren''t with him due to their own businesses. "I''ve discovered some artifacts in his possession which he happily shared the information with us that time. Although I couldn''t tell the specifics of our journey as per the Obelisk authorities'' order, we used something called Junain''s nket that helped us conceal our way out of the academy, and the man, Russell, who I presumed to have killed one of your prospects, have another artifact that looked like a needle but without a pointed tip..." Amelie paused for three seconds before her words caused Arthur to silently clenched his fists while sitting on a high-back chair. "It''s called ''s Needle." Arthurposed himself before he asked firmly. "Do you have any idea how''d he get ahold of such artifacts?" Amelie didn''t hesitate to answer while still bowing her head to the trash individual in front of her. "I heard it''s from the Disciplinary Committee President, Azalea Vermillion." ''That f*cking bitch!'' Arthur Wolfson inwardly cursed as he thought of the possibility that maybe Azalea has also something to do with Kevin Springer''s death. After some time of being silent, Amelie''s words continued. "Sir Arthur, I''ve observed his acts and demeanor, although he''s quite a distant person most of the time, he''s a naive one who only wanted profits." ''Profits?'' He pondered over Amelie''s words before he asked in mild confusion. "What do you mean by that?" Amelie, not breaking her persona in front of Arthur Wolfson replied seriously. "He bought the artifacts, Junain''s nket, and ''s Needle to Azalea for a specific price, and wanted to sell it at a higher price. He asked me if I have someone I know whom he could sell it to, so I took pictures of artifacts for preliminary discussion in case one asked for it." Amelie didn''t go further like saying she knows a ck Market because she knew that Arthur Wolfson probably traced her origins, discovering her life as a source of a certain drug called Dark Tears. And without waiting for his response, Amelie tapped on her smartwatch, projecting photos of the artifacts along with its basic information and price which was affordable in Arthur''s book considering his wealth. "I see..." He was feeling ted and filled with anticipation because he needed badly the artifact, ''s Needle so he''d be able to topple Azalea''s position as a Rank 1 student in the third-years. "Good work, Amelie. "You see, I''m interested in both artifacts, so I''m going to give you your next mission. "Continue to observe him and inform me of any potential buyers of the artifacts. "But also tell him that someone already takes an interest in it. "Then, if the artifacts aren''t sold on this date, have him meet me after the midterm exam. "Bring him with you." Arthur couldn''t care less about the artifact called Junain''s nket, but he deliberately told Amelie that he was interested in both artifacts which were something that Amelie noticed. ''He doesn''t fully trust me...'' She inwardly thought as her lips curled up slightly, unnoticeably, in this dim room filled with members of Weaver Faction. ''But it doesn''t matter, anyway.'' She didn''t care in the slightest about whether or not Arthur Wolfson trusted her. ''All I care about is how these theatrics will be yed.'' An increasing feeling of ecstasy started to consume her as her ruby eyes seemed to contain a luster that depicts, not the natural evilness, but strangely of an ''actress.'' ... "I''m tired of being an observer or spectator that seems like everything is considered as a y and there''s a wall that shouldn''t break." Anya Amasawa said in a serious manner, but this time she was not alone because the countless red eyes in her vision weren''t to be seen. "I don''t know what you are on about, but you said you heard my conversation with Elizabeth and Rumia recently, that''s why I came here." Han Jiho ¡ª who was messaged by Anya ¡ª visited her dorm room at thiste at night. "I meant what I said in the message I sent you, but I need your help with something, maybe I''m just bored that I wanted to have more interaction with other people. Do you know why? It''s because I feel like I''m seeing myself in you that doesn''t interact with many or seems lost in society, and I started to realize that I act like you do which I considered somehow weird in my eyes..." Anya said in a casual tone as she sat on a couch, cross-legged while Han Jiho was standing idly. "Before I help you with whatever favor you would ask of me, give me first the information or any idea you have about what you heard during my conversation with Elizabeth and Rumia." Han Jiho firmly said. Then Anya''s next two words caused his eyes to slightly dte. "Dungeon Terrorism." Chapter 103 Pursuing Ones Goal "Dungeon Terrorism..." Anya Amasawa''s serious words echoed in Han Jiho''s ears. It was the term he would have never expected to hear. Han Jihoposed himself, standing still, in front of Anya as he asked curiously and firmly. "What do you mean by Dungeon Terrorism?" Anya sighed for a moment, pondering a little about her next words. "This is confidential information that I am informed of because of my status due to my father''s honor and power. I have ess to pieces of information that should or would not be made public. "If you are curious about why I''m telling you this is because it''s up to my judgment. Simple as that. Alright. Sigh... "You are aware that Strayed Dungeons have something called Dungeon Cores... it''s like a ''heart'' of the Strayed Dungeons that Dungeon Towers don''t have. "If the Dungeon Core is destroyed, the Strayed Dungeon will cease to exist which means that monsters wouldn''t be regenerated on that particr dungeon again. "But... there''s another function to Dungeon Cores, it''s to cause a Monster Stampede if the Dungeon Core is manipted by an individual with a certain profession like ck Mage, at least based on what I know. "And if you''re curious about how it''s done, it''s simple... I''ve read that a yer needed for such acts must be a lot stronger than the Strayed Dungeon itself. "Means that the yer or should I say ''terrorist'' will sneak inside the Strayed Dungeon, kill the monsters and Boss Monster, get ahold of the Dungeon Core, then do whatever ritual is needed instead of destroying or taking care of it for the monster to regenerate..." Han Jiho''s fists clenched as he digested the information that came out from Anya Amasawa''s mouth. Then after a few seconds, while his breathing became heavy, he asked seriously, although he felt that it was the truth, he couldn''t find any reason why a Monster Stampede swept through his innocent, secluded vige, Sanctus Sris." "What''s the credibility of the information you just said to me?" Anya sighed at the distrustful tone of Han Jiho, but it was something she understands. "Sigh... As I said, I have ess to confidential information, but I understand why you''re asking that... it''s because even the Two Princesses seem to have no idea regarding your matters. "Well, I don''t have any idea, too. I just shared what I thought was rted, and appropriate for you to hear." Han Jiho realized his behavior as he reined in his thoughts. "Right... I''m sorry. "I''ll take it in mind what you said to me." Anya Amasawa just nodded as various thoughts surfaced in her mind speaking about Strayed Dungeons. It''s the information she received via her connection with some of the yers that were affiliated in their guild which was also part of the Obelisk Organization, Olympus Guild, who were part of the raiding team that routinely raids the Micro-Strayed Dungeon named Vein of Immunosar (E+). ''Come to think of it... the new type of Strayed Dungeon that was discovered by Russell and the others doesn''t have a Dungeon Core... It''s quick to regenerate, too. What a strange phenomenon.'' Just as her thoughts were hypothesizing something, she heard Han Jiho ¡ª who takes a seat at this moment ¡ª asked something unrted. "What are your thoughts about the news recently? You know, the ck Sky Disorder who imed responsibility for the attack in a weaponpany." Anya looked at him before opening her mouth, this time, her tone was somewhat monotonous. "I don''t know. "Anyway, it''s your turn to seal the end of your deal. "By the way, I''m only doing this because of your very existence that seemed to reflect my quiet behavior in public which I realized was actually pretty annoying... I wonder if people are avoiding me not because of my status, but rather of being quiet." Anya said bluntly, prompting Han Jiho to slightly frown, which then caused her to softly chuckle. Without waiting for Han Jiho to respond, she continued with a casual tone. "Hmm... If I remember correctly, you have a bad impression regarding the Student Council President. I''m feeling the same, he''s a two-faced man... well, ording to me." ''Or the numerous red eyes of various sizes surrounding me when I''m alone.'' She thought inwardly as she continued with her request, then after a minute or two, Han Jiho replied, seemingly finding the intent behind the request as ludicrous. "Correct me if I''m wrong... so you want to investigate any possible hidden misconduct of the Student Council President just because you felt he''s a two-faced man? And you want my help with it because I''m feeling the same towards him?" Anya nodded in a casual manner as if she didn''t find anything weird with her request. But inwardly she thought of the ulterior motives she has about slightly deepening the connection with Han Jiho. ''Don''t look at me like I''m weird. Although you''re good at articting your words, you seem foreign to me... just like the Chancellor with a surname that felt like from an alien race.'' She said inwardly, but with a serious tone, although it may sound ridiculous or crazy to others'' ears. "Then how do you n to begin? I''ll keep my end of the deal." Han Jiho cut off her thoughts, then after pondering for a few seconds, Anya replied with a somewhat ted tone. "Let''s start with Victoria-Russell rumors that are circting." ... Holding the Book of Changes in his hand, Russell just finished writing or adding the changes he noticed whenpared to his original, but unpublished novel. The added changes were about Azalea''s connection with him, Victoria''s early retirement of being a Student Council Secretary, and the Victoria-Russell rumors which caused him to frown while writing it down, seemingly wanting to stab Arthur to death with a pen. "I have to adjust my schedule in meeting Maya." He muttered as he put the Book of Changes back on his Dimensional Inventory. He didn''t forget to recruit Maya to be his personal attendant in the Obelisk Academy, although he was given two weeks to make a choice, it was only about rendering him the privilege of choosing academy-rmended personnel. Even after the two-week duration passes, he could still bring a personal attendant of his choosing. "Sigh... I just hope that the changes I brought would only cause minor aftershocks in the original story." As days passes by, most of his thoughts were about getting stronger, protecting his parents and Freya, as well as his newpanions for the future disasters that would befall mankind. And with his suspicion of the System''s behavior, and the characteristic of Chaos itself, he felt like raiding a Chaos Dungeon that he had essed by using the True Key of Chaos would be tantamount to suicide even though the ranks of some Chaos Dungeons are now within the eptable range, especially he''s not going solo anymore because of his younger sister, Amery, and Amelie. Reining in his thoughts, Russell stood by the window, looked around the Public Academy Grounds, then nced to take a look at the bluish moon hanging above in the starry night sky. Then a sound of notification, a sign of text message from his smartwatch sounded in his ears. It was a report from Amelie. ... "Russell, the Student Council President said he''s interested in Junain''s nket, and ''s Needle. Then he ns to buy it on a certain date... like maybe after the midterm exams if it is still avable during that time..." Russell read the message as a scoff escaped from his mouth. ''He''s suspecting Amelie, and he''s not showing his desperation in getting the ''s Needle.'' Russell took out ''s Needle as he sat on his bed after looking at the bluish moon hanging above in the starry night sky, then he inspected its information. ... [''s Needle] The needle of maniption that was made from ''s Core, the Boss Monster dubbed as the Whisperer. Rank: Unique ssification: Artifact Effects: - Increases the possessor''s Tenacity and Willpower by 10 - Increases the range of maniption skills by four times. - Increases the chances of manipting the mind of the target by 15% Additional Effect: If the possessor of this artifact has a maniption-rted profession, all of the above-mentioned effects will be amplified by 100%. ... Russell fidgeted with ''s Needle for a few seconds before putting it again in his Dimensional Inventory. "It''s a good artifact considering the epted known standards of artifacts, especially for someone like the Student Council President..." He muttered before he send his response to Amelie''s report along with a new mission he''d need apany with. ... "Hello...? Aunty, it''s me... how are you and the kids?" Amery''s voice this time was soft and warm, something that would melt the heart of a man who hears it. At the other end of the call, an elderly woman''s voice with an excited and also warm tone answered. "A-Amery? I''m good, and the kids are doing well, too. How about you there?" Amery smiled as she heard the warm voice of someone she calls Aunty, the one who raised her after her parents were murdered in cold blood years ago. "I''m fine Aunty, by the way... the reason I call... Hmm... I hope you won''t be mad at me." Amery said, her breathing seems to turn slightly heavy. "What are you saying? Did something happen?" The tone of concern entered Amelie''s ears at the other end of the call. "Yes, Aunty. Something did happen... But it''s good news for us... especially the kids..." Without waiting for her Aunty to respond, she continued with her warm voice, but this time, a joyfulness could be heard from it. "I made money recently... and Aunty... I want to say that I will drop out of the academy." "Wh-what...? Amery? What do you mean by ''made money''? You''re inside the academy, right? And why do you want to drop out of your studies? What about your future?" Auntyposed herself, not arriving at any conclusion, but instead asked the necessary questions. Amery smiled softly when she heard the words of her Aunty. ''My future...'' She said inwardly, feeling grateful for Aunty''s selfless concern then after pondering for a moment, she said with an unwavering smile while she fidgeted on her smartwatch. "Aunty, I''ve just sent the money to your ount. Please, use it to raise the kids well, and stay healthy... okay." Aunty checked the money in her bank ount as her eyes widened in shock because of the staggering amount that probably wouldst for hundreds, if not thousands of years if it''s spent frugally. "2-200 billion..!? Amery! Where''d you get this money? Are you involved in some illegal schemes!?" Aunty raised her voice from the other end of the call, but Amery only smiled at her Aunty''s normal reaction before she breathed heavily, then said in a warm, but mixed serious tone. "No, Aunty..." Her Aunty was just about to interject as her adrenaline seemed to be having a rush when she heard Amery''s next words, which instantly cut off her earlier suspicions. "I swear on the blood of my mother and father." It was the words that caused Aunty to be silent. It was the words that cannot be taken likely as Aunty knew what Amery had experienced in the past. It was the words of certainty that came from the deepness of the soul of Amery where her thoughts of revenge were on slumber. Then with her silence as an act of response, Amelie continued with a firm voice this time. "I want to drop out of the academy because of the opportunity I came across with where I can be stronger than just staying in the academy... and it might take years that I''ll be away... so Aunty..." At this moment, Aunty interjected. "Sigh... alright... I''m deeply grateful to you, I know you''re pursuing your goal, but always be careful, okay? And don''t worry, I''ll take care of the kids... you know you just secured their future. I''m sure they''d be grateful especially when they grow up." Aunty said, but this time she was restraining herself from crying as her eyes seemed to be wet. "Aunty, aunty! Is that sister Amery? When she''lle home?" A soft voice of a little girl around seven or eight years old entered Amelie''s ears on the other end of the call. Amery smiled warmly, but her mood made a sudden shift as her tears flowed down from her eyes upon hearing the little girl''s voice. "A-Aya... Hi... Aunty will take care of you, okay? Be strong! See you soon, Aya, and Aunty!" She seemed unable to contain her emotions, then after her Aunty replied, they bid their farewell to each other. ... An average-looking man with deep ck hair, purple eyes, and a slightly fitted build ¡ª hidden in the shadows from a distance ¡ª was looking at an elderly woman in her early-40, standing outside a certain orphanage while looking at the starry night sky. Chapter 104 Maya A month had passed since the day they went from Nether Realm, three weeks since they returned from being missing to being found, and two weeks since they started to attend sses again after the ''mental'' break that was given to them. And within this week, a piece of shocking news spread to students from A1 to A-2 to A-12 sses of first years. It''s about a certain A-1 student that drop out for unknown reasons that seemed provocative to those who didn''t have the ability to think logically as some of them only thought that it was kind of insulting that privilege of being an A-1 student was just thrown away as if it''s trash just meant for a bin. "Some people really concluded their own to satisfy their own opinion." Amelie said in a monotonous tone, sitting on her seat with her right hand supporting her right cheek as her right elbow was over her desk. The professor for this day''s ss had just finished his lesson and left the A-1 ssroom. "I hope Amery''s alright... Hmm... Amelie, do you have any idea why Amery wanted to be strong... like stronger than anyone else? Unfortunately, we haven''t been able to do our supposedly predetermined battle as I promised her before." Freya said in a nostalgic tone, she recalled the moment she met Amery or the moment she first interacted with her after the Disciplinary Trial Exam. Freya and Amery didn''t fight during the exhibition battle on thest day of the event of Emergence Anniversary Remembrance because there was nothing at stake which was ording to Freya, the condition needed for battling with her. "I''m not exactly sure about her desire or what motivates her to be stronger, quickly at that. But if I have to guess... she grew up in an orphanage, so maybe it has something to do with her parents. Russell also clearly lets us hear how Amery obtained her current profession right... "Amery aside... I think it''s no use to ask why someone needed to be stronger, especially when you shared with us your... you know..." Amelie said casually, but it made Freya ponder for some time as she realized the meaning of Amelie''sst sentence. Freya realized the content of her Star Quest Party, the enemies they would have a fight or war with in the future; Heretic of Nature, Rakshana (SS+), Blood Addict, Cassius Crimson (SSS-), and a staggering powerhouse, an Ex-Constetion, Urg''r Mor. Upon realization, she seems embarrassed with her question just now. ''It doesn''t matter what Amery''s reason for getting stronger is... We''ll apany her on her journey.'' Freya thought inwardly, feeling her desire to be stronger intensified, she then nced at the front of the ssroom. "Fair enough..." Freya replied, revealing a faint smile, then after some time, Amelie asked with a concerned tone, but this time, it was delivered via Telepathy through their connection as Chaos Companion. Freya chuckled inwardly at Amelie''s way of saying things, she was reminded that Amelie was someone who seemed to possess different personas as if an actress in different ys in the theater. Amelie''s cheerful in front of people she had barely connections with. Her personality bes gray when being confronted or engaging with people she deemed as enemies just like how she looked when she stabbed Kevin Springer in the chest and neck, ending his life in the process. Then, when she''s with them, she shows how intelligent she was when ites to analyzing and hypothesizing various things while being cheerful or cheeky almost at the same time. Freya put her assessment at the back of her mind before answering via Telepathy. Freya learned about Estelle in a general section of one of the books she received, specifically the Nether Creatures Bestiary (Ancient). ''Well, not specifically about her, but the nature of Nether Creatures and when they needed Evil Spirits to eat.'' Amelie said with a hint of curiosity, which Freya satisfies by answering her vaguely. The books Freya received, after skimming through some of them, were foundplicated in her view that she almost wanted to drop out just to have more time to study those books. Creak-! The door on the right side, near the front of the ssroom, creaked and revealed a teacher. It was Professor Eric Romer who handles the Dungeon Geographical System (DGS) subject. His entrance cut Freya''s thoughts as she tapped on the shoulder of a man from her side. It''s her older brother who earlier fell asleep. "Wake up, Oppa... Oppa...!" ... After a few hours, the sses and breaks ended as if a wind just passed by. Russell''s patience was reaching its rock bottom as the rumors about him and Victoria, the former Student Council President seemed to spread like a virus everywhere. He also saw the face of the Student Council President passing by who inconspicuously looked at him with pity while maintaining his saint-like public image. Aside from that, Russell observed the businesses of the main characters he wrote in his original, but unpublished novel. Anya Amasawa and Han Jiho seemed to have deepened their connection for some reason, but Russell guessed it was because of Anya''s curiosity about Han Jiho and Alexander''s identity, although Anya used Arthur''s two-faced persona as a cover. He also painted in his mind the two Princesses that were like a cat and a dog, but in a cheeky way. Then he recalled Samantha who seems to avoid him for some unknown reasons, and Leon who''s quiet, but surrounded by goons with a connection with his family, Obreyon. ''At least everything isn''t that different from the original...'' The only difference that Russell was noticing the most was the timeframe the things were happening which seemed like faster than what he originally anticipated. ''Well, I don''t have the right toin... the original plot is already twisted.'' Hempooned inwardly while walking side by side with his younger sister and Amelie, then after some time each of them parted ways, going to each of their own dorms. ... Sitting on a couch with his hands on the back of his head as he leaned backward, Russell analyze his ns and how to execute them at the right time. After an unknown period of time, he changed clothes from his school uniform to simple ck shorts and a shirt with a gray hooded jacket, then he took out the Mask of Night from his Dimensional Inventory, wore it, then vanished from his dormitory room. ... "It is time?" Amelie ¡ª who also changed her clothes from her school uniform to ck pants, and a simple ck t-shirt ¡ª asked with her lips slightly curled up, then Russell wore a look of confusion with what she wears next, it was a shoulder-length ck veil, slightly covering her face. Then after a few seconds, after Russell nodded, she transformed from a human to a being called ''Shade'', took out her new staff, ''Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth)'', and opened the Spade Warp which she and Russell walked through. ... "You''re quite an adventurous one." They instantly arrived at one of the secret passages that Amelie knew near the ''yer General Store'' near the Northernmost Olympia where Armageddon Mountain could be seen. "Considering the influence of Thorn of Rose, and by the organization I was in, I''d say I traveled many ces, but what''s convenient the most are the locations where you wanted to go are also the ces I have already been." Amelie answered casually, her pink hair that turned ck fluttered slightly. ''She''s right, with Spade Warp,bining with the location she traveled to. It''s easy to traverse the ce.'' Russell admired Amelie''s adventurousness which seemed to stem from hardships and the Spade Warp skill that she obtained from the Lady of Shaded Spade. "Yeah, it''s truly convenient. By the way, let''s buy some high-quality food for our host tonight." Amelie didn''t question Russell as they started to take their pacing, looking for a restaurant near the yer General Store. ... Inside the yer General Store where Maya ¡ª the salesclerk that Russell interacted with before he went on a journey to Armageddon Mountain in search of the Seed of Chaos ¡ª was arranging the various Low-Grade Potions before the end of her shift. After some time, she finished tidying up and bid goodbye to her co-worker who just arrived. The yer General Store runs for 24 hours and doesn''t close because some yers or adventurers prefer to raid Strayed Dungeons during the night. Walking on the sidewalk, she felt a presence around her, but being a perceptive woman, she felt two people were following her, but she brushed it off and continued to walk to her home that''s only a few blocks away from the yer General Store. After a few minutes of walking, she opened the door to her apartment, the scenery of her neat apartment interior entered her sight the moment she opened the lights, then she locked the door, and tidied herself up. She looked at the mirror, reflecting her fair-skinned face, sapphire-like eyes, and waist-length auburn hair that contains smoothness, as well as her voluptuous body. After some time of tidying herself up, her eyes widened at the two figures sitting on the chairs around the table that were reflected in the full-length mirror. "Three seats, but you''re living alone." A womanly figure in all ck, wearing a ck veil that hides her face spoke in a cold voice, she only listened but with cautiousness. Maya was just about to reply when a manly, cold voice of a figure wearing a dirty white mask with the symbol of ''X nted 45 degrees to the right'' carved on the mask''s forehead part, cut off what she was about to say, prompting her to look at the other figure who wore a gray hooded jacket. "I know where your parents are." The voice of the manly figure reverberated in her apartment, but it pierced her soul as she trembled. ... ''Maya''s parents were already dead in the original story, but in this reality, and at this point in time. I''m certain they''re still alive.'' Russell thought inwardly, looking at Maya whose auburn, smooth hair flutters as the cold wind entered from the window of her apartment. "I''ll tell you the details, but after you calm down first." He looked at Amelie, then Amelie took out food from her Dimensional Inventory, it was the food they bought beforeing to Maya''s ce. Amelie ced the food on the circr table, causing Maya''s eyes to tear up a little because it was the food that she and her parents mostly shared together, Nereian Seafood Ramen. Maya cautiously took a seat, recalling her parents whose been missing for at least two years for reasons unknown to her. After taking a heavy breath, she looked at the two figures who took their own seats, but they didn''t use the two remaining chairs around the table in respect to her parents, but rather took out two stic chairs. Maya then spoke firmly. "Tell me." ... Amelie''s voice sounded in Russell''s head through Telepathicmunication. Russell agreed to what Amelie guessed. Although they were not certain about it, they felt that something was amiss with Maya. Russell interjected, continuing the words that Amelie was about to say. ---+ ---+ ---+ Author''s Note: Please read the updated notice written under the Synopsis. Thank you, readers! Chapter 105 Peculiarity "That''s probably what happened to your parents." Russell said just after he gulped down thest strands of Nereian Sea Ramen. Maya listened attentively to the information she just heard, but her heart was racing faster and faster due to the anticipation that she could see her parents again that went missing a few years ago. Clenching both her fist ced on top of her shorts over her fair-skinned legs, she spoke while trying her best topose herself, although she knew that it was alright to break down in front of some strangers. "The day they went missing, four years ago, they wereing home after visiting the grave of my father''s parents, while my mother''s parents are still living on stor to this day, but you see..." She paused for a second before letting out a heartfelt sigh as she recalled the moments she spent with her parents whom she missed so much that it''s only her job as a sales clerk that barely distracts her from thinking about them every time. ... Russell ¡ª who was listening to Maya''s words of longingness ¡ª felt a slight chill on his scalp as his thoughts were drifting into something. It''s the same with Amelie who was somehow bombarding him with questions in his head through their Chaos connection. ''That''s what I wanted to know, too.'' Normally, any intruder especially in this kind of world where the System, stats, skills, and artifacts exist, would certainly be cautious if someone intrudes on their home as the capacity brought by the existence of skills or anything rted makes people easily kill or be killed. Russell almost choked on the ramen broth as he realized that the word ''kryptonite'' didn''t exist in this world. ''I should be more careful about spilling words from my previous life.'' Hempooned inwardly before he replied to Amelie via telepathy. ... "Do you trust us?" Amelie asked Maya as they finished eating the bowl of Nereian Sea Ramen. Although Russell told her to ask such a question, she also wanted to ask it herself about Maya who was initially cautious, but as if a switch was flipped, she became somehow docile out of nowhere. "Yes, it''s because I''m certain you have any idea about my parents... You wouldn''t say it out of nowhere if that''s not the case right... "And... I''ll do whatever you want, just let me see them again." Russell almost chortled, breaking his character necessary for this moment, at Amelie''s words that ran through his mind, but he noticed Amelie''s get up, a simple ck t-shirt and ck pants that didn''t match the shoulder-length ck veil she''s using to slightly cover her face. Afterposing himself, silently restraining himself from letting out augh, Russell asked thoughtfully. "Maya... I have a question first, did you know that we wereing here?" Maya slightly flinched that if the person she was talking with didn''t have a perception stat, it won''t be noticeable. After a few seconds, she looked at Russell''s side who was wearing a dirty white mask. "Hmm... to be honest, on my way home, I noticed you two following me..." "You''re an assassin, right?" Russell suddenly asked, causing Maya''s eyes to dte a little. "You... you have Status Appraisal Skill!?" Status Appraisal Skill was not something a yer could just obtain via Skillbook as it costs hundreds of millions to buy one unless a yer has a profession dedicated to scouting by which the System grants that yer a general version of Status Appraisal Skill or have a contracted Constetion that would grant them a higher version of Status Appraisal Skill. Russell didn''t answer immediately, although he didn''t use the ''Eye of Night (EX)'' skill he has, he knew Maya from his unpublished novel. She''s the one who murdered or more like something that fell into the category of massacring the ''Shadow Guild'' after discovering that they were the ones who enved her parents until their deaths. Maya was one of the Untouched Elements that Russell wrote in his unpublished novel for a simple yet stupid reason after Maya massacred the Shadow Guild, she barely appeared in the story afterward. He remembered the lines in his unpublished novel just like when he first saw Maya in the yer General Store. ''Blood spilled everywhere in the office of the Shadow Guild where several renowned individuals'' heads flew everywhere in the blink of an eye, with just a twinkling of a star, as Maya was sitting on the Shadow Guild: Guild Master''s seat with her legs crossed up on the table with an indifferent look on her face'' pAn,Da-n0v e1,c As he recalled it, he thought inwardly, assessing one of the cockroach-like characters in his unpublished novel. ''Arthur is one of the dogs of the Shadow Guild, but he escaped Maya''s wrath by a hair''s breadth.'' Russell thought inwardly of the general thought of the lines he wrote about Arthur at that time, he felt like face-palming in front of Amelie and Maya due to his failed writing. ''I feel like I''m having PTSD by remembering the details of my unpublished novel.'' Hempooned inwardly but still thought of the lines he wrote. ''Arthur Wolfson was called by the Guild Master to take a vacation because of the new ves he controlled by forcing them to sign a contract that would make them workers in an underground Strayed Dungeon that mines a certain type of mineral called Urum (UR). But a few dayster, he received a piece of news that the Guild Master and the Shadow Guild''s other heads were brutally murdered by an unknown individual.'' ... After a few seconds, he looked at Maya under the Mask of Night, then he took off the mask, prompting Amelie''s words to bombard his head again. ''I''d say, telepathy is f*cking annoying sometimes.'' But Maya''s words made Russell forget what Amelie just said. "You... It''s you... h-how? No..." Maya said in incredulity as she stared intensely at Russell''s average-looking face, seeing the deep blue short hair and deep ck eyes. "Yes. I''m the student you once encountered. Your memory is good." Russell said inwardly, but Amelie''s words in his head caused his fist to be clenched inconspicuously. Amelie said after she quickly analyzed Maya''s reaction and Russell''s intention. Russell said as the chills on his scalp came back as he thought deliberately. ''Something''s going on... something that I don''t know.'' "Ye-yes... it''s you, the student who bought a Crude Shortsword and some potions, right?" Russell''s eyes constricted, then Amelie spoke this time as she knew the story about how Russell met the Goddess of Night, connecting himself in the world of Chaos. "You''re right, he told me that story, you know. Your memory is truly good. By the way, what we want from you is to be our shared Personal Attendant in the Obelisk Academy." Amelie said seriously via telepathy, then she raised the ck veil, revealing her pink hair that wasn''t tied into a pigtail, but it was rather loose, almost reaching her waist and her ruby eyes. Russell took note of Amelie''s words, forgetting toin about the term ''shared'' Personal Attendant which didn''t even ur in his mind as a possibility, but considering that they''repanions, it''s just somehow right. "But... I need to work... and I don''t know the rules and regtions there..." "100 million a month. That''s your sry." Amelie interjected, prompting Russell to look at her in disbelief, but thinking about the future, money wouldn''t matter that much anymore. He then looks at Maya after thinking as he acquiesces with Amelie''s judgment at this moment. Maya became speechless, her mouth agape because her sry per week was only 100,000 Obel which amounts to 400,000 Obel per month, and these intruders who were technically Obelisk students were offering her a hundred million just to be their Personal Assistant. After a long sigh, she agreed reluctantly, then Russell proceeded with their n about rescuing her parents. ... Shadow Guild Branch, Part of Western Olympia. "Oi! Oi! What are you fellows doing huh?!" Bam-! A kicknded on the back of an elder-looking man with a slightly thin body, auburn hair, and sapphire-like eyes. Although the Emergence caused the Mana to be consolidated around the world, causing evolution to the physique of humans, it doesn''t mean that the work they''re going to be involved with would be easier. An elderly woman with short red hair and blue eyes ¡ª who didn''t even have the strength to shout ¡ª tend to the elderly man. Although they were in their middle 50s, their looks seemed only in theirte 30s. "What a husband and wife, unfortunately... you''ll die here, so just help us work, at least you''ll do us good!" A man with a rough face spoke in a firm voice with a grin on his lips. The elderly man and woman picked up a pickaxe, an unordinary one that wouldn''t break easily, then proceeded to go inside the already cleared Strayed Dungeon that''s heavily controlled to mine a mineral called Urum (UR). There were thousands of people like them wearing gray t-shirts with numbers written on its back. ... The elderly man with a number on the back of his gray t-shirt written as 721 whispered with a poignant tone. "I hope we can see her again..." The elderly woman with a number on the back of her gray t-shirt written as 722 teared up as she said in a breaking voice. "I miss our daughter, too." ... "Let''s go... it''s gonna be a fun night." For some reason, Amelie''s words that were said with a smile caused Russell to feel goosebumps on his body, more than the strange Maya that they didn''t think hard about at this moment as they deemed it unnecessary for now. Russell nodded at Amelie, he already told her the location where the possibility of the location of Maya''s parents could be found, but the problem this time was that it was somewhere that Amelie didn''t go to during her days as a ve in a certain organization living under the Thorn of Rose. Amelie scratched her head, then Russell said via telepathy. Amelie nodded as she painted the image of the nearest Air Train station that was bound to the Western Olympia. After an unknown period of time, Amelie took out the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) and used the Spade Warp. Maya''s eyes widened at the spade-shaped warp dyed in the darkest ck that appeared out of nowhere, her mouth slightly agape while at a loss for words, then Russell walked through first, followed by Maya, andstly by Amelie. ... Inside the Air Train of the Spiral Station. Sitting on the seats inside the cabin assigned to them ording to the Air Train ticket number, Russell looked outside, seeing the lights of the city, starry night sky, and bluish moon. ''If nothing changes, there''s only a single Strayed Dungeon where Urum can be mined...'' He inwardly thought as the Air Train traversed on its track, hovering over it. ... On the northern right of Olympia, Forest of Oblivion, a towering facility has been built by the Obelisk Organization, sealing the confidential Strayed Dungeon. Checking the woman with tinum hair, purple eyes, and a voluptuous body that''s being gawked at by the guards, the gate to therge facility opened. Then, taking a magical elevator, and reaching the underground in a matter of seconds, Ayleen Mayfield, the professor of A-1 students of first years walked for a few minutes as various kinds of greetings reached her auricr senses. She stopped in front of a certain massive door with abel that''s written... [Cemetery of Oblivion] Chapter 106 Lunaria Rustle-! Rustle-! Ayleen Mayfield was walking softly and quietly in a forested area simr to the Virtual Battleground that A-1 students of first years, specifically Han Jiho''s and Samantha''s group went through. It''s the Cemetery of Oblivion, one of the confidential Strayed Dungeons that was under the authority of the Obelisk Organization. But this Strayed Dungeon was different in thend area because the copied data through virtual technology only epasses 5 km., but the entirety of a single-floor Strayed Dungeon, Cemetery of Oblivion has a span of at least 50 km., ten times bigger than the Virtual Battleground that was used in one of Professor Murak''s activities. There were no monsters anymore in this Strayed Dungeon, and the white moon hanging above the sky had its eyes already close as Lunaria, the Boss Monster that''s simr to humans when ites to physique structure, has been awoken from her dream since Ayleen cleared the Cemetery of Oblivion in the way that Samantha did; Recite the Poem of Remembrance, act it out based on the right interpretation. If the recital and interpretation turned out to be wrong, a yer would be forgotten from people''s memory and their bodies will be buried under the tree with a nameless grave,pletely sumbing into oblivion. There was also no something called the Fog of Oblivion that demands the rule of sticking together or else, one would disappear. The forested area was as clear as though pollution haven''t reached this ce. After traversing the parts of Cemetery of Oblivion from the entrance with an insane speed as an SS+ rank yer, having a staggering 5 digits stat of Agility, Ayleen eyes quickly caught the view of the cabin from afar, situated in the middle of the Strayed Dungeon. She then took her time until she arrived at the front grayish wooden door that seemed engulfed by the rivers of time due to its condition. Knock-! Knock-! Creak-! Ayleen knocked twice before a creaking sound echoed through her sense of hearing. She smiled at the womanly figure that''s considered a Boss Monster but her features were borderline of beauty and stunning. Lunaria ¡ª the considered Boss Monster ¡ª has gray hair that extended almost to her knees, it''s very long hair that''s very captivating under the moonlight. She has a pair of eyes that are dyed in both white and ck, abination that seems to depict the dark and bright side of the moon hanging above. "Hi, Ayleen." Lunaria spoke in a humannguage, something that Ayleen understands. It''s Korean. After the Emergence that wiped billions, it''s not just people that died, but also countless cultures of humanity. During the progression of humanity throughout the years, the most spokennguage in the world fell under the Korean and Englishnguages, but with the help of the System,munication was made easier due to Tranting function that the System has, at least it''s only among humans, one would need a human trantor or profession rted tonguage interpretation when humanity needed to converse with the Elves and Dwarves, and other races that humanity mighte across in the future. But the being, Lunaria, in front of Ayleen remained a mystery because ording to the standard of humanity''s perspective when ites to the understanding of Boss Monster, no one ever has a kind of intelligence that spoke Korean. Lunaria fell under the category of mystery just like the Close Mystery Towers that even after 40 years, still remained close. "Hello, how are you?" Lunaria invited Ayleen inside the small cabin that was dpidated. The Obelisk Organization tried to help Lunaria by sheltering her or renovating the inside of Strayed Dungeon, but they only received one reply... "Humanity has no right to change something unless you are Master." For some reason, after Lunaria spoke firmly, the representatives whomunicated with her experienced the most painful psychological attack they''d ever know. An E+ rank Strayed Dungeon with a very dangerous Boss Monster, this was also one of those times that the Obelisk Organization doubt the ranking system that the System presented to them. After snapping back to her senses, Ayleen answered Lunaria who was wearing tattered clothes. "I''m alright, thank you for asking, I hope you''re okay, too." Ayleen said genuinely, although Lunaria was considered a Boss Monster, she was a rare case that wasbeled as a Top Secret. "What''s the question this time?" Lunaria went straight to the point, prompting Ayleen to smile faintly. Without waiting for Ayleen to say her next words, Lunaria added with a smile of amusement as if she was a child, ying with an adult, but Ayleen knew very well that she has a connection with her Constetion, Witch of Dreams, which means that Lunaria shouldn''t be taken lightly even though she''s only A- rank inside an E+ rank Strayed Dungeon. "I''ll answer only what''s necessary at the moment." Ayleen organized her thoughts and arranged the questions in her mind, the sole reason she visited Lunaria this time. "Hmm... Okay, Lunaria... there''s an incident that happened in the Elnira Kingdom more than a month ago, it says in the report that an attendant of the Queen of Elves died due to mysterious reasons after attempting to say something in front of the Queen. It also happened after a World Announcement was just announced..." Ayleen took out a stack of paper from her Dimensional Inventory and presented it to Lunaria. It contained the report about the case, and the written World Announcement that same day. Lunaria read it thoroughly as her lips slightly curled up before she firmly asked as she put the stack of paper on a wooden table. "Did something happen to the King of Elves? I''m sure you all noticed, it''s a Kingdom, but it''s the Queen that rules..." Ayleen smiled at the sudden question that was unrted to the case before she casually answered Lunaria''s question. "It''s a piece of information that''s strictly confidential even for us. No one knows what happened to the Queen''s father." Lunaria''s fair-skinned right-hand slides to her right cheek softly before she said, looking at Ayleen sitting on the other side of the table. "Okay. About your question, I have an idea, but it''s knowledge with a cost. A cost you won''t be able to pay, and you probably won''t understand, so I''ll just give you another piece of information. "Is that alright Ayleen, or you''ll forget me?" Ayleen was used to Lunaria''s behavior so she didn''t force the issue and instead said with anticipation... "Alright, what information you wanted to share?" It was the first time that Lunaria volunteered to share a piece of information for some reason. ''She seems to avoid talking about the case...'' Although she became curious about the cost she needed to pay for Lunaria to answer the case of the mysterious death of one of the Queen of Elves'' attendants, she had this nagging feeling that the moment she agreed to pay the cost, something terrible would happen. Lunaria''s next words cut Ayleen''s flow of thoughts as her eyes dted as soon as she processed what she just heard. "A Close Mystery Tower will open in about two months." ... "What did you just say?" Ayleen''s ears seemed to prick up in disbelief at what she just heard, but her tone andposure remained firm as an experienced yer who had been with various trials and incidents. "You heard right, Ayleen." Lunaria didn''t repeat what she previously said, but rather affirmed it with a smile on her face. Although Lunaria acts like a child, her figure and bearing speak the opposite. "I see..." Ayleen said sinctly, still feeling a shred of disbelief with the words she just heard because it was a bombshell that would shake the entirety of humanity if it was publicly announced earlier. "Ayleen, don''t worry about it. I''m sure it''ll be announced through World Announcement a month prior to its appearance." "..." Ayleen just continued to listen to Lunaria, then after some time, she asked in curiosity, trying to get more specific information. "Lunaria... do you know anything more about Close Mystery Towers?" She smiled faintly at Ayleen''s words before she said casually. "Ayleen, it''s been many years since I woke up from my slumber. Ironically, the Poem of Remembrance states that I entered a ''Sweet Dream'' which is truly referring to the moon hanging above the sky. "When I''m awake, the moon is dreaming and while I''m dreaming, the moon is awake. "But the moon is my third eye, it might seem different from me, but it''s still my eye that sees from above." Ayleen listened to cryptic words that came out of Lunaria''s mouth which were totally unrted to her question based on her perspective. With a faint smile, Lunaria continued. "Sorry Ayleen for babbling some nonsense, heh heh. I just want you to hear it. "..." "Ayleen, thank you for hearing me out. And as a payment, I shall tell you about the Close Mystery Towers." Ayleen didn''t speak about the odd behavior of Lunaria who spoke randomly, but rather she waited for her next words. "Close Mystery Towers are the kind of towers that has floors numbering 30 as the minimum. These towers have different characteristics and themes and don''t open at the same time, but the moment one opens, it would bring great change whether for the improvement or loss of the world..." Ayleen''s eyes constricted with the information, not because of the towers'' different characteristics or themes which were also present in a Strayed or Tower Dungeon, but rather the number of floors it possessed. ''30 minimum...'' Her scalp mildly tingled as Peak Dungeon Towers that have 15 floors took an average of 6 months to clear depending on conditions applied when raiding it. "I know what you''re thinking, Ayleen, but you''re wrong on this one... "Close Mystery Towers are scattered throughout the world, but Close Mystery Towers, depending on its characteristic or theme, can either be essed physically or through the System, and can be cleared either faster or slower than what you thought." The moment Ayleen heard the word, ''System,'' she recalled one of the reasons Lunaria was considered as Top Secret information of the Obelisk Organization... Case 0: Lunaria, a Boss Monster that talks about the System itself. ... "Ayleen... promise me one thing and I''ll tell you the specific Close Mystery Tower that''ll open across the world." "..." Ayleen nodded, wanting to know more. "Promise me... you''ll never ever ask me again in any way you can about the mysterious death of one of the attendants of the Queen of Elves." After processing the information, Ayleen nodded as a thought surfaced in her mind. ''Did she tell me this information just because she wanted to avoid being asked about it again? Strange... She''s intensely avoiding it.'' Although she''s curious why... Ayleen understands that some mystery wasn''t meant to be probed into. "Alright. I promise... in the name of Constetion, Witch of Dreams." She made an ultimate promise, prompting Lunaria to smile upon hearing it before she proceed to tell Ayleen about the Tower of Growth. ... After an unknown period of time, Ayleen''s thoughts were upied with pieces of information as soon as she came out of the Cemetery of Oblivion which seemed to be a tourist spot for the Obelisk Organization, but it was rather a limited tourist spot due to its confidentiality. ... After a few hours ofmuting via Air Train, Russell, Amelie, and Maya arrived a few blocks away from the entrance of a secret branch of the Shadow Guild which handled the mining of a mineral called Urum (UR). "...Let''s go." Russell firmly said, looking at Amelie and Maya, who responded with a nod. Chapter 107 The Beginning Of The Incident "...Boss, where would the Guild Master use the mineral mined here?" A man with a rough face, short ck hair, ckish eyes, and a slightly big-boned body, the warden of the cleared Strayed Dungeon that has a mining vein that produces Urum (UR), asked with slight curiosity the branch manager of the Shadow Guild, stationed in the hidden parts of the Western Olympia. The man with brown hair, brown eyes, burly body, sitting on a desk, in his renovated underground office looked at the man and said with a twisted smile. "It''s confidential, but all I can say is that you made a good choice by pledging your allegiance to the Guild Master. The man with a rough face didn''t inquire any further and attempted to go back to the entrance of the Strayed Dungeon that falls into the rank of F-, the weakest, lowest of ranks, but inside, it contained riches that would make billions or might be trillions annually if the mining operation goes smoothly. But before the man walked through the door, he heard the voice of the branch manager, prompting him to turn his head. "...Harold, did you know that Dan, Rad, and Murock are dead? It happened more than a month ago but was only reported recently. "Sir Reinhardt, one of the allies of Sir Arthur, reported it, along with Ms. Ruina." The man with a rough face had his eyes dte as he processed the words that came out of the branch manager. "Sir Arthur... Guild Master''s nephew, did he say what happened?" He said in a serene tone, but his heart was palpitating because Dan, Rad, and Murock were his buddies that entered this guild together. "They were given a task to send a warning to an Obelisk student, but they never came back." Harold, the warden, clenched his fist, he was just about to say his next words when an employee rashly barged in through the door Bang-! "Ha... Ha..." The employee who rashly barged through the door caught his breath for two to three seconds before he looked at the branch manager and Harold who wore a look of confusion and said with a tone of urgency. "Sir Markim, Sir Harold, there are intruders!" ... "Stay behind us, Maya." Amelie said while holding the taller-than-them staff with a ck spade shaped on its tip and a deep purple body with a deep ck handle. Maya, as an assassin, has a rank of D- at this point in time because she hasn''t reached her full potential yet which makes her capable of massacring an entire guild on her own. Russell signaled them as they entered through a secret metal door inside a certain restaurant that was already closed at this veryte at night. "It''s underground. Be ready." Bang-! Russell kicked the door with immense strength, shattering the metal door into pieces, then he and Amelie received the notification regarding the concealment of the surroundings. They scrutinized the interior of the underground hideout where a Strayed Dungeon was erected. It''s a very spacious ce that was constructed to contain the Strayed Dungeon''s size. There are lights in the wide hallway, and numerous doors from either side that contained the tools for mining, and lodgings of the ves, but what attracted their attention the most was the gigantic metal door with at least 15 meters in height, 20 meters in length, and almost 10 inches wide. "There''s no one here aside from those people that look like guards... But what the hell is that door?" Lurking around near an inconspicuous railing to avoid notice, Amelie whispered, to which Russell responded casually. "Probably, it''s an entrance to the Strayed Dungeon." "..." Maya was silent all the time, but her heart was beating quite fast with anticipation. "Amelie, scout the surrounding area first, ande back quickly." Russell ordered, to which Amelie responded with a nod. She used her Unique Skill: Shade Transformation, which left Maya''s mouth agape, then Amelie vanished from her spot, only Russell could see her unless there was an individual in this ce with a spiritual perception-rted skill. After a few minutes, Amelie came back with pieces of information. "100 guards, 10 wardens, then at least 50 that looked like office employees, then at the far end, there''s an office where the branch manager is in, he''s talking with a warden which is included among the 10... "The warden he''s talking with is B- rank, but the Branch Manager is A- rank, it might be dangerous for us." Amelie said in a firm tone as if he was reading a manuscript or presentation, she also added her opinion in the end. "What are they talking about?" Russell asked curiously, then as if a certain memory shed in his head, a chuckle escaped from his mouth upon hearing Amelie''s words. "...It''s about someone named Dan, Rad, and Murock, I also heard Arthur''s name... Did you know he''s the cousin of the Guild Master of this ce?" Russell nodded, not hiding anything. "This is a wide area, at least a hundred of square meters across. With that many guards, there''s probably a thousand people locked in here, or forced into a contract." Russell looked around, they also saw the carts for mining, the mineral called Urum (UR) that was dyed in deep ck. "Let''s go before the prisoners where Maya''s parents might being back, so we''d avoid coterals." Amelie nodded at Russell''s words as she added softly. "They might even use them as hostages." Russell smiled at Amelie''s thinking as they proceeded to take action at this moment. ... Harold and the branch manager named Markim walked through one of the hallways from the second floor and saw the ground floor filled with bodies, fighting three figures, but a strange thing caught Markim''s attention, the two of them are young, probably in their early teens, and the other one is in thete twenties, and they didn''t even bother to disguise themselves. "You... evacuate the others through the Emergency exit, and report it to the Guild Master... go now!" Markim ordered, he''s a branch manager who was trusted with this ce, and he intended to protect it. He and Harold jumped from the second floor,nding on the ground floor unscathed, prompting Russell, Amelie, and Maya to stop fighting the remaining guards who surrounded them. "Bold of you to barge into this ce with only three of you. Youngsters, too. You three are probably out of your minds." Markim spoke arrogantly while assessing the strength of the intruders with a general Status Appraisal Skill that was given to him for his job to be more efficient when recruiting people. "Where''re my parents!?" Maya shouted while holding a pair of daggers in an offensive stance. "Parents...? I see... you came here for someone, but don''t you know there are a thousand ves here." Markim said, admitting that this ce was harboring ves. He looked at the intruders, the man with an average look, deep ck hair, and deep blue eyes extended one of his hands to stop Maya from acting rashly. Markim saw the ranks of the intruders, two E+ and one D-. But little did he know that Amelie''s rank is C-, almost reaching C rank, while Russell reached the same after making his younger sister and Amelie a Chaos Companion with the use of Chaos Buff, and with the effects of a fourth of Fruit of Chaos. As he observed the intruders, Markim, Harold, the other 9 wardens, and the remaining guards whose ranks range from E to D-, heard Russell speak in a casual, but kind of provocative tone. "Do you know Dan, Rad, and Murock? You see... I''m the one who killed them." ... Harold''s veins in his forehead budged as the words of one of the intruders tapped into his auricr sense. Without any words, he lunged at Russell as he quickly took out a shield and a spear from his Dimensional Inventory. "Stop!" Markim shouted at him but overwhelmed with his emotions, Harold heard nothing from behind as he continued his offensive to quickly reach the meters of distance between him and Russell. But at least a meter or two away from Russell, a scream reverberated throughout the whole secret underground which can be called prison. ... Shriek of the Shade (Max ¨C Amplified) Rank: Unholy Cost: 100 Mana - Let out a shriek that will cause faintness if the ''target yer'' has tenacity and willpower stat 50% lower than you; will cause ''disorientation'' if 25% lower than you. This condition is only applicable within 30 meters of the skill effect. - This skill can also be used during ''Shade Transformation'' - The farther the ''yer'' with the shriek, the lesser the impact. ... Amelie used for the first time the skill she acquired by bing a Dark Shade after making a contract with the Lady of Shaded Spade. Her cheerful, womanly voice turned deep that seemed to scratch the soul of those people in close proximity as she screamed. Most of the guards in the area with low Tenacity and Willpower fainted instantly, while the wardens including Harold, and the branch manager, Markim was the only one unaffected as his Tenacity and Willpower stat reaches four digits, but the others seemed lost about what course of action they should do next. Maya ¡ª who became their party due to System''s authority ¡ª was still quite affected by Amelie''s skill, she seems to feel something scratching her very being, causing chills to run down her spine, but Russell''s and Amelie''s trait of Nihility mitigated the effect by letting Maya to be partially concealed against the effect Amelie''s skill. "Alright, it''s 11 vs. 3..." Amelie didn''t finish her words as Russell swung the Sword of Shad to the staggered Harold, who was unable to quickly recover from the shock caused by the shriek. Bam-! The Sword of Shad infused with a great amount of Mana, turning it into a blunt weapon like when he used it against Bailey rkson before, mmed into Harold''s back, causing a very small crater in the ground. Russell quickly asked Amelie via telepathy, she then quickly vanished from her spot as a Shade under the gaze of Markim and the other wardens waiting for orders from their branch manager. ... "I see... you two are not normal people, but you know very well it''s a mistake barging in here, not knowing the difference in ranks and power." ng-! "Easy now..." Markim blocked the Russell attack of Russell as he instantly took out a sword from his Dimensional Inventory. ''A kind of agility that reaches A rank... I don''t know how, but I need to be on guard.'' He assessed the speed ording to his experiences. ng-! Whoosh-! Bam-! The two exchanged swords while Maya started to hide because she knew that she was not capable of handling the wardens, which made her wonder about the strength of the Obelisk students who approached her. The wardens also watched the battle between the two, then an order entered their ears thru the telepathy skill that Markim has. The 9 wardens, excluding Harold, who was having a hard time getting back up, scattered and quickly obeyed the order. ... ''Without the Cull and Cut (EX), we''d never barge in here openly.'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he defended himself from the ongoing attacks of Markim as his arms felt like detaching from his body. Due to the additional effects of his upgraded Weapon Mastery, that''s exclusive to him as the Mediator of Chaos, his Agility or Strength stat could reach 4999 when he''s holding either a sword or scythe weapon respectively as his original Agility or Strength stat will increase by five times. And as of this moment, he''s wielding the Sword of Shad which he bought from Thorn of Rose, but realizing the predicament he''s in, he quickly stored back the Sword of Shad in his Dimensional Inventory and took out the nameless sword that came from the Ancient Treasure Chest of Chaos that he acquired in the Oldest Root of Yggdrasil. ''He''s an A- rank, and only my Agility is on the realm of A- rank because of Cull and Cut (EX)...'' Russell knew that he was at a disadvantage when ites to Strength stat, but the reason he chose to wield the sword instead of the scythe was that it might be more dangerous if he was unable to match the speed of the opponent. "That''s a fine sword, I''ll take it from you." Markim said, cutting off Russell''s thoughts, but Russell''s lips curled up during that moment as he thought of something usible to win this battle. His deep blue eyes seemed to contain deep luster as he responded to Markim''s words with a casual tone. "Thank you for taking the time of admiring this sword." Chapter 108 The Cryptic Massacre Markim''s brown eyes slightly constricted at Russell''s peculiar words that came out of his mouth., but without any thinking about it any further, he lunged towards Russell, wielding his sword. Bam-! After their first exchanges, he noticed the difference between them, although he didn''t know how an E+ rank yer possessed a speedparable to A- rank yer. Markim thought that it may be because of a hidden artifact that Russell possessed, or an Intrinsic Effect of the weapon he was holding, whatever the reason was, Markim wasn''t capable of knowing, thus, brushing off his guesses, putting it at the back of his head, and prioritize to end the man named Russell ording to what he saw by using the general-type Status Appraisal Skill which let him inspect the basic information of the target. Markim''s Agility stat was around 2300+, but his opponent, the young man seems faster than him. It caused Markim to somehow felt slight alertness, but when he received the surprise attack from before, he knew that the opponent''s strength was around C- rank, which also caused a slight confusion because the opponent''s rank ording to Status Appraisal Skill was only at E+ rank, but as a man with battle experiences, he knew that questioning something while in a fight was extremely detrimental and might lead to getting off-guard with a slight opening, thus he focused of cleaving down the sword he''s holding, to be specific, it''s a greatsword with a tail of the dragon carved on it. ''Is he in pain? He keeps dodging.'' Bam-! Bam-! Whoosh-! Whoosh-! Markim noticed Russell''s reactions, but one thing that he noticed the most was the expression that Russell had, it depicts an expression of being calctive and calm as Russell''s atmosphere changed in that short amount of time that Markim praised his fine sword, and casually said he''d take it. "I see... this won''t be simple as it seems." Markim stopped his chase and kept his distance for a few meters away as he looked at Russell who took a dirty white mask from his Dimensional Inventory and quickly put it on. Markim saw the dirty white mask and was about to say that it was toote to don a disguise, but when he saw the carved symbol of X tilted 45 degrees to the right, he instantly concluded that it was an artifact, although it was in-looking. Markim''s eyes dted as the opponent suddenly blend in the shadows, prompting him to use one of his skills this time, especially when he didn''t know the full capacity or Intrinsic Effects of the artifact that Russell was wearing. [Activating Skill: zing sh (B+)] Boom-! Markim mmed the ground, zing fires scattered that came out of his greatsword seemed to swallow everything in its path, burning some necessary equipment of the facility, but due to thend area of the underground facility that''s at least a hundred square meters, some were spared. Although the zing of fires mercilessly burned the guards that fainted due to Amelie''s Shriek of the Shade (EX), the smell of their burned flesh along with their scream that woke them up from their fainted state reverberated throughout the underground facility, Markim didn''t care because of one reason... Aside from him and the wardens, the guards here were also forced to work in this facility with the help of Arthur Wolfson, nephew of the Guild Master of the Shadow Guild, who did maniption into signing a ve contract. Although the controlsted only for a short amount of time, the guards, who were picked with cautiousness to avoid the prying eyes of the other guilds due to possible connections, wholeheartedly epted the illegal job as time passes due to the amount of money that''s going into their pockets. They became equally guilty and no different from Markim and the wardens. "Agh-!" A grunt cut off Markim''s thoughts as he achieved the objective of his attack. With his zing sh (B+), the shadows were expunged by the light of the fire, causing Russell to not have something he could blend in. ... ''...F*ck!'' Russell cursed inwardly as his back hit a metallic wall. Although he''s not hurt badly due to the body of a yer that''s strengthened, his advantage of moving through shadows was temporarily extinguished. He realized how much of a disadvantage he has because it was only his Agility stat that was strengthened, not Strength, Vitality, Stamina, or any other stats. The average stats of an A- rank yer were about 2200 up to 2700. ''If I could justbine a sword and a scythe to take advantage of the additional effects of Cull and Cut...'' ording to its additional effects, Cull, if he''s wielding a scythe, it''s his Strength stat that would be strengthened by five times; Cut, if he''s wielding a sword, would strengthen his Agility by five times. Boom-! Without waiting for his thoughts to be collected, Markim lunged at him who was just about to stand up, which he dodges by rolling to the side. ''F*cking...!'' He knew thatining in this situation wouldn''t give him an advantage, then a notification sounded in his ears as he quickly skimmed through the System message, but as soon as he read it, his thoughts of cursing were spoken verbally. [The Constetion, ''Night of Primordial Chaos'', says that if you eat the Fruit of Chaos in its entirety, a power of Symbol of Night will be unlocked, allowing you tobine a sword and a scythe weapon of Chaos origin.] Russell''s cursing was heard by Markim, prompting his ears to prick up a little, but as a professional, he didn''t care whatever Russell was going through, rather he used another skill to bombard Russell. ... pAn,Da-n0v e1,c [Activating Skill: zing Circles] Soon, upon Markim''s activation of the skill, zing of fires that were swirling, forming a shape of a circle lunged towards Russell who was running and dodging endlessly. These circles of fire could cut through metal easily. Russell didn''t have fire resistance, only dark and light, which was differentpared to fire, that''s why, when he''s hit by the circles of fire, his body would get cut in half, or his head would fly off instantly. ''It''s not time to summon Ceru yet.'' He never forgets about his summon who he barely calls as there''s no necessary asion for it to be summoned. Rumble-! Rumble-! A sudden earthquake inside the underground facility that could be slightly felt from outside stopped his train of thought and tracks for a moment, it''s the same for Markim who stopped lunging at him, the same for circles of fire that he controls through his mind as he became confused about the earthquake. As a guild branch manager, he''s been in a guild for at least 8 years, he knew that the underground facility was strongly built, made from expensive materials which couldn''t be shaken up by an earthquake of this magnitude. ''Chance!'' Russell was the first to snap out of his thoughts and silently summon Ceru. The surroundings were still burning with zing fire which gave bright light to this underground facility. ''Ceru, blink and bite!'' He quicklymanded it through his connection, which Ceru obliged and used the blink skill it has. Bam-! A spinning sh from Markim cut through Ceru''s body as he anticipated such an attack. [Your summon, ''Ceru'' has died.] "I was waiting for you to do that, you summoner and swordsman." A deep voice of Markim entered Russell''s ears, but Russell only looked at the body of the Alien Slime that was cut in half with his cold deep blue eyes. ... Twenty minutes earlier, just after Russellmanded her to chase after the escaping employees. Amelie was running through the metallic walls in the underground facility with the use of her Unique Skill: Shade Transformation. ''They''re only at F- to E- rank...'' Amelie said inwardly as she traversed the underground facility at a very fast pace. Then after at least four to five minutes, he saw the backs of the running employees and quietly observed them as they couldn''t see her, then after some time, four wardens reached the employees who heaved sighs of relief. Amelie used the Skill, Eye of the Darkest Spade (EX) to inspect the details of the wardens, but this time she did it thoroughly unlike when Russell asked her before to survey the area in which she only inspected the ranks of the employees, guards, wardens, and branch manager. ''Well, it doesn''t matter, they couldn''t see me in this form.'' This time, aside from peeking at the wardens'' Status Windows, she also used the other ability of the Eye of the Darkest Spade, which was to peek into the weaknesses of the target, then after a second or two, she received the System messages. [Confirming weaknesses of the target...] [Weakness: Poison] Amelie thought that the weakness was on point due to the wardens'' same professions of being a tanker, the same with Harold, the warden that''s left behind with the Branch Manager Markim. ''Fighting them head-on is dangerous.'' Amelie thought as she quickly came up with an idea. Approaching the wardens who asked questions about if a woman chased after them, and receiving the collective answer of ''No'' put the wardens at east for some reason, Amelie, in her Shade form, appeared behind the back of a warden that''s on the back of the line, then she mildly pierced her left palm with her staff, causing for her left palm to bleed, then a miniscule amount dark blood flowed from her palm and reached the shoulder of the warden on the backline. [Your Trait: Blood of the Lamented One has taken an effect.] [Your blood with Chaos property has been transformed to Dark Property as it escaped your body.] [Blood with dark property will cause corrosion.] ... The warden on the backline felt something on his left shoulder, it was also gradually felt by the other three wardens walking in the front. "...What''s wrong?" A man with blonde hair and brown eyes wearing gray-rimmed eyesses asked with anxiousness. Sizzle-! Sizzle-! Soon, screams from the four wardens who were guiding them as they were nearing the Emergency exit reverberated to one of the hallways of the underground facility. The skins of the warden rapidly turned dark, from shoulders, to head, and itpletely engulfed their bodies after a minute, then some of their flesh was peeled off through the corrosion the blood of Amelie caused. Retches could be heard from some employees as they started to run in panic to the direction of the Emergency exit, but to no avail, their attempt was stopped by a woman with pink hair color that''s in a pigtail, and ruby eyes that contained luster through the surroundings. Amelie turned off her Shade Transformation skill and blocked the way of the employees, but the employees reflexively took out weapons in each of their Dimensional Inventory. "...Hmm... so even though you all seemed to not like the profession you were granted and worked here as an office worker, handling papers or whatnot, you still wield your weapons." Amelie said casually while maintaining her cautiousness, although not every employee or office workers have abat profession. "Hey, I''ll spare anyone who can answer my question with true honesty." She said while looking at the exactly 50 employees excluding the dead wardens whom they didn''t even dare look at due to their bodies'' state. "Has any of you killed someone before...?" After some time, the employees looked at each other and one of them, a woman, said with inexplicable anxiousness through the presence in front of her. "A-all of us had killed someone already... But..." Amelie raised her left hand, the one that was not holding the Staff of the Lost Spade (Growth), upon hearing the answer. "Do you want to repent of your sins? Have a change of heart?" A man with a fitted body, ck hair, and ck eyes, in the middle of the crowd, shouted at Amelie upon hearing something he considered as ridiculous. "You f*cker! Stop your babbling, this ain''t a church! "Let''s attack her together, she''s alone!" The other 49 employees seemed to gain some courage through the man who stood up against something ridiculous. "Attack!" ... Amelie looked at the 50 employees, lunging together at her as she stood a few meters away. "...You epted to repent and change your heart..." Amelie raised the Staff of the Lost Spade (Growth) with her right hand and looked at its tip with her pink eyes that containedmentation, then after a second or two, a dark aura started to emanate from her body. "You''re f*cking crazy! Kill her!" The man from earlier shouted again. "You are now forgiven." [Activating the Intrinsic Effect of the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth): Spade Cross of Penitence.] Amelie said in a serene voice, but this time, the employees who heard her felt a chill run down their spines. At that moment, a darkest, spade-shaped portal horizontally formed in the air, then a huge, towering, at least 30 meters, dark cross with four points; for head, feet, and both hands were shaped in spade. The Spade Cross of Penitence attached itself through the ground instantly, causing an earthquake with its impact, along with a dark shockwave that touched the employees'' bodies. Then, the moment the dark shockwave hit their bodies... small dark crosses protruded from within their bodies, killing them instantly, expressions of extreme horror left in their widened eyes that didn''t even close. It''s a very horrific and cryptic sight, but Amelie''s lips curled up, emitting a cold atmosphere while looking at the 50 employees with small dark crosses that sprouted out of their bodies that died by her hands. "May the Spade be with you." She muttered before traversing back to Russell. Chapter 109 Reinforcing Chaos [Staff of the Lost Shade] One of the weapons that the Constetion, ''Lady of Shaded Spade'' grants to ''Her'' disciple. It''s made from unknown and sinister materials and was forged by the Constetion, ''One Who Eats Fire For Breakfast'' for an unknown period of time. Rank: Normal (Growth) ssification: Weapon (Dark Shade exclusive weapon) Enchantment: Noclip Enhancement - During Shade Transformation, Agility stat increased by two times (capped at 4999), allowing the Dark Shade to move through walls at a faster pace. [Sealed]... Intrinsic Effects: Spade Cross of Penitence (Unholy) - An offensive skill that the Dark Shade could use whether in Shade Transformation or not. - Through the use of this skill, the Dark Shade would be able to summon a huge, dark cross through a horizontal portal and it would attach itself to the ground like an iing projectile. - Upon thending of the huge, dark cross, an effect called Dark Shockwave would start to permeate from it through the surroundings, then it would ''Curse'' anyone without a Chaos Trait or at least 200% (20 points) Dark Resistance. The Dark Shockwave could be turn on or off upon the Dark Shade''s will. - The Spade Cross of Penitence''s size, as well as the potency, and area that the Dark Shockwave could reach would grow and expand respectively as the Staff of the Lost Shade rises in rank. - Condition of Use: 500 Chaos Mana per initial usage, then 250 Chaos Mana per minute of Dark Shockwave. [Sealed]... ... Amelie recalled the description of the weapon, that had she received from the mysterious Egg that Russell takes care of after they ate the slice of the Fruit of Chaos. It''s a growth item exclusive for her having a Dark Shade profession, it also has four [Sealed] Enchantments and four [Sealed] Intrinsic Effects which Amelie didn''t know what rank would these be unsealed. Amelie traversed the wide hallway made from sturdy metals after some random thoughts toe at Russell''s side who might need an assistant at this given moment. Then after an unknown period of time, she heard a voice in her head. After digesting themand that Russell has given, she replied firmly without questioning anything, especially Russell''s first sentence about getting a piece of his body back. Amelie knew that Markim, the Branch Manager of this underground secret facility of the Shadow Guild, was a strong yer, and Russell wouldn''t be able to stand a chance if he fights head-on and takes longer. [Activating Unique Skill: Shade Transformation] Amelie used her Unique Skill and started to phase through the metallic walls and quickly surveyed the areas. ... "Who do you think are those intruders? They''re freaking young-looking and yet they seem strong." One of the five wardens that secured the carts of Urum, a ck-colored mineral that''s extremely potent upon contact which was the reason why the cart used in storing it was made from rare materials that are somewhat costly and has less to no Mana Conductivity, causing the Urum mineral to behave smoothly. "It ain''t matter, it''s a mistake that they barged here out of nowhere. We don''t even know how they managed to get into this ce, but based on one of the intruders, they seem to be looking at her parents." Another one of the five wardens who heard the previous warden said with certainty, then he added in delight... "...Hahaha, those people would die in a year or two; months if there''s no provision of needs for them. Some of them even contracted Mana Poisoning through mining Urum without proper mining equipment aside from those pickaxes. "Poor them..." "Poor you." As soon as one of the wardens finished speaking in delight as if he achieved safety already inside the Storage Room, he heard a womanly voice just near his left ear, causing his hair to stand on end, but it was already toote. Spurt-! Spurt-! The spade-shaped tip of the long Staff of the Lost Spade pierced horizontally into the man''s neck, then Amelie shed through it as if drawing an arc beautifully,pletely cutting off the man''s neck, causing blood to gush out of it like a fountain. The remaining four wardens including one of the wardens who thought about the strength of the intruders looked at Amelie, who quickly undid her transformation, and the dead body with shock and disbelief, extreme chills ran down their spines at the sight of horror. "Y-you! Aren''t you being chased?!" The four wardens took out their weapons inside each of their Dimensional Inventory, it''s all the same, causing Amelie to chuckle and said with a seem-like innocent smile on her face. "They had a change of heart and repented of their sins. "Anyway, what''s with you all wardens? You all seemed to have a tanker-rted profession." Amelie said, but one of the wardens didn''t bother in answering her nonsensical question and quickly lunged at her at a considerably fast speed. Bam-! Holding a sturdy, metallic shield in his left hand, one of the wardens mmed the ground with it, causing the entire Storage Room to be thrown into disarray. ''These guys have no chill... They''re C to B- rank.'' Amelie analyzed thoroughly the information of the four remaining wardens'' stats. ''It''s too much for me to handle this head-on.'' Amelie judged that it was a gnarly situation, but she wanted to fight head-on... to challenge herself, but considering the ranks and possibly battle experiences of the four wardens, she retracted the thought of something simr to suicide. Bam-! Without even properly arriving at what her next move should be, the four wardens simultaneously attacked her from four sides, it''s a normal attack that contains much power, but activating her Shade Transformation at just the right time, she vanished from their vision as they didn''t possess any special eyes that could see through her during her Shade form, and their swords or shields hit the air and pass through her body. Amelie didn''t dodge them by pacing away, but rather let them hit her body while in Shade form to see what it would look like somehow. "Be alert! She''s a demon!" Although with the existence of the System, there were only a handful of people that knew about the Spirit Realm, Soul Realm, Nether Realm, Demon World, and Mirror Dimension, thus the existence of something new to them might be considered as demonic or came from Evil Constetion. Just a few seconds after one of the four remaining wardens said those words, a gigantic, dark portal horizontally opened above them, prompting them to take a four-man circle formation, as the air vibrated andter on caused an earthquake. Then a huge, dark cross, at least 30 meters high, propelled itself downward, crushing the four bodies of the warden... [Activating Skill: Aura Shield (C)] "Argh~!!!" The four wardens collectively screamed their lungs out as they tried to defend themselves from the unexpectedly huge, dark cross that contained a sinister aura. Their shields seemed to form a dome that surrounds them where the huge, dark cross collided, causing the earthquake to intensify. Amelie ¡ª who was watching from a distance ¡ª admired the willpower and strength of the wardens, then she proceeded to approach them with a grin carved on her lips. As she was approaching, Amelie used the spade-shaped tip of the staff to cut her left palm, then she drenched her blood into it. She shed her staff... but this time, Amelie targeted the feet of the four wardens who were upied in defending themselves from the crashing huge, dark cross Spurt-! Spurt-! Boom-! Their feet were cut off, then the Spade Cross of Penitence came crashing down on their bodies, causing their deaths before even the Dark Shockwave releases itself. [Cancelling the Dark Shockwave.] "Ha... people with the same ranks are really hard to fight with... Maybe I should have consoled them by saying that it''s not that they''re weak, it''s just that they''re notpatible matchup against me." She mumbled randomly while looking at the crushed bodies of the four wardens who desperately attempted to defend her attack, some blood and flesh were painted on the lower end of the huge, dark cross. After some moment, she then recalled Russell who was probably in a dire situation fighting against someone whose rank was leagues higher. Then after a few seconds, she curtsied in the front of wardens'' bodies buried under the dark cross, even though she was not wearing a dress as a noble should, she then said in a low but cold voice. "That''s what you get from spheming my Lady." She didn''t hesitate to use the Spade Cross of Penitence as soon as she heard one of them say that she was a demon because Amelie thought that it was indirectly saying that her Constetion was something like a Demon King. "Phew, I guess I needed to stay at the Chaos Training Grounds for some time to recover." She looked at her Chaos Mana value which was about a thousand left as she mumbled. Amelie ¡ª who didn''t have a decent Chaos Mana regeneration would take a while for her topletely recover it, but with Chaos Training Grounds benefits, her Chaos Mana would recover faster. After resting for a short time, she left the cryptic scene that looked as though a sacrificial ritual took ce, and started to go to the gigantic door, the entrance to the Strayed Dungeon where the Urum could be mined, and where a thousand ves were being forced to work including Maya''s parents. It''s also in the center area of the underground facility where Russell''s fighting. ... Seven minutes ''before'' Amelie uses the Spade Cross of Penitence for the second time. "That''s an ugly-looking monster. Where did you tame such monstrosity?" The burly man with brown hair and brown eyes, Markim, asked Russell who was looking at Ceru''s body with cold eyes, cut in half by Markim himself using his greatsword, he didn''t even use a skill. Markim didn''t even have a reaction of disgust unlike when Russell initially saw the Alien Slime whom he named Ceru, mainly due to his experience as an A- rank yer. "It doesn''t matter, anyway." Markim didn''t give Russell a considerable amount of time to process what just happened to his summon as Markim lunged forward, his greatsword brimming with fire. Boom-! But with Russell''s Agility stat being higher than Markim, he dodged the direct cleave by going through the side, but the zing fire that scattered slightly caught him, distracting him for a moment. Spurt-! Soon, a mouthful of blood came out of Russell''s mouth as he looked at the spear that pierced him from behind through his lower abdomen, and then he heard a deep voice behind him. "This is for Dan!" Bam-! Russell''s face, being held through his deep ck hair by arge hand, was mmed through the ground while the spear that was attached to his lower abdomen wasn''t even pulled out, causing him to grunt and cry in pain. "This is for Rad!" Spurt-! "And this is for Murock!" After the spear on his lower abdomen was pulled out, leaving him to cry in excruciating pain. Russell was stabbed in his stomach, causing more blood to be spat out of his mouth. ... After a few seconds, Markim''s voice praised the deed of the remaining warden. "Great job, Harold, although I can take care of it." Harold, the remaining warden who was the first to initiate the battle, gradually recovered and waited for his chance to attack Russell and avenge Dan, Rad, and Murock, the three men who were suggested by Ruina, then assigned by Reinhardt, and was sent to Russell to warn him about deepening his connection with Samantha. "Don''t kill him yet, I have a few questions. Pour some lowest-grade health potion into his wounds just to let him recover from bleeding." Markim ordered, which Harold obeyed as he felt that his revenge was already certain and that he didn''t need to rush this young man''s death. Harold took out some lowest-grade health potions from his Dimensional Inventory and approached the bloodied body of Russell who fell to his knees, his eyes were tired as they darted around, seemingly feeling that he would lose consciousness at any given moment, but he maintained his lucidity, and his arms and hands were of no strength anymore as though it''s a hanging vegetable, waiting to rot. Then, as Harold opened one lowest-grade health potion, Markim spoke in curiosity. "You see... the normal response when someone''s intruding is to report it quickly to the higher-ups, but for some reason, the connections were cut off... "Did you use some artifact that cut off digital connections?" It''s the reason that Markim ordered the employees to report it after leaving the underground facility. Although he has many questions, he started with something that triggers his curiosity the most. "..." Russell opened his mouth, but words were inaudible, prompting Markim to approach and squat down in front of Russell, leaning his right ear to listen while Harold was sshing the second bottle of the lowest-grade health potion. Rumble-! Rumble-! At that moment, another unusual earthquake urred inside the underground facility, but this earthquake seemed stronger than the first one, and at the same time, Russell''s words became clear. "You should have stabbed me through the heart." His weakened, seemed vegetable arms and hands regained some strength as he quickly wrapped them around Markim, who was leaning his right ear, and Harold, who was sshing the potion. [Activating Skill: Reinforcing Chaos] Chapter 110 Abomination [Activating Skill: Reinforcing Chaos (EX)] It''s one of the skills Russell received upon bing the Mediator of Chaos through the Seed of Chaos he sought based on his knowledge through his unpublished novel, and the Symbol of Night which changed his professions; from general Swordsman, Summoner, and Reaper. ording to the skill details, as the Mediator of Chaos, Russell was able to reinforce or transfer Chaos Aura from within his body and soul, but its effects vary depending on cases which were either the target has the Chaos trait or not. Based on what Russell remembered, if he uses the Skill: Reinforcing Chaos to targets with Chaos trait, they would receive a boost in overall stats. It''s the alternative to his Unique Skill: Chaos Buff which became fixed in giving additional stats to 150 points per target. But if the target didn''t possess the Chaos trait, just like what Sir Emmanuel Lyncoster and maybe his research team already encountered, they would be an Abomination. At this moment, Russell ¡ª who wrapped around his arms through Markim and Harold''s necks, which were slightly distracted from the earthquake that the Spade Cross of Penitence caused ¡ª emitted a dark blue aura from within his entire body, but this time, it wasn''t concealed by his Nihility trait. Markim''s and Harold''s eyes dted at the sight, and reflexively pushed away Russell from a few meters away, but it was already toote. Although they didn''t know what was the dark blue aura that came out of Russell''s body that touched their necks through Russell''s palm, which entered their skin, they felt an indescribable chill that suddenly turned into horror after some time. After an unknown period of time, the earthquake that Amelie caused suddenly stopped as though it quickly finished its desired intention for its purpose of urrence, then Russell, who fell backwardly and mmed his back through one of the infrastructures as he reached his limit heard a womanly voice in his head. Russell ¡ª who was bleeding from his head which was mmed by Harold, and through his lower abdomen, and stomach ¡ª didn''t manage to reply as he waspletely tired of thinking about anything, his pain receptors throughout his body seemed to work nonstop. He just silently watched with exhausted eyes that were passed through by blood the horror that was happening in front of him, a couple of meters away. Markim and Harold staggered, looking at Russell with frightened expressions, not because they initially feared him, but rather because the dark blue aura that came out of Russell''s body that sneakily entered their skin through their necks started to manifest itself within their ipatible bodies. The chances of using the Reinforcing Chaos against enemies, especially with intelligence, and a high rank were extremely low, and might be almost impossible. Russell also knew, that although Chaos Aura was extremely potent, if one was exposed mildly, its effects would rather be weak, but still deadly. It''s only a matter of how long the affected target would survive, and what would the change be in them. As of this moment, Russell ¡ª who used for the first time the Reinforcing Chaos skill ¡ª saw the Chaos Aura''s manifestation through Markim and Harold''s bodies. Even he, felt an indescribable chill and repulsion at the sightid bare in front of him. ... "Russell!" Amelie shouted with deep concern in her voice as soon as she arrived at the center area of the underground facility, and saw Russell with a pool of blood while leaning his back into something metal. She also noticed the former Markim and Harold which caused her mind to turn nk upon thoroughly looking at the figures standing a few meters away from Russell, they were crying in excruciating pain, but their words became gibberish. But withoutpletely processing what just happened in this ce, she quickly approached Russell ¡ª who was on the verge of losing consciousness. Then she pointed her Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) to Russell''s abdomen and used the Dark Heal (Unholy) skill on him. Soon, a small dark magic circle with a mix of dirty white colors ovepped with Russell''s abdomen, closing the wounds that he have. "Cough-! Cough-!" Russell cough a mouthful of blood as he opened his eyes wide and clear, he then saw Amelie, and his mind was turning lucid as he regained some of his health and strength. Amelie saw Russell, who stood up, then she didn''t ask if he was alright because she knew within that he was already fine, but rather she asked him as she looked at the figures of Markim and Harold, who were still transforming into something indescribable. "What happened to them? It''s disgusting as hell." Amelie looked at the two transforming figures which could be described as something alien. "It''s the effect if the Chaos Aura entered a body without the Chaos trait." Russell answered seriously as he watched, feeling repugnant, the slow transformation of Markim and Harold. Amelie was silent for a moment as soon as she heard Russell''s answer, then after pondering for some time, her lips curled up as she said with a smile on her face. Amelie''s expression caused Russell to feel a chill run down his back. "Can I finish them off?" Although Russell was confused at first, he gave his permission in the end by nodding his head in response. Although Markim and Harold became something abnormal through Chaos Aura spreading inside their bodies, they''re still alive at this moment, and probably wouldpletely be mindless horrific monsters that would attack anyone in their sights. "Thank you, Russell." Amelie bowed her head to Russell which made him ufortable, before proceeding to walk, slowly approaching Markim and Harold. After a few seconds, she inspected the entire body of the two figures. "It''s freaking ugly." She muttered, but Russell heard her words. Markim''s body at this moment contained eyes, numerous eyes which some didn''t have a pupil, only white. There were pair of eyes on his forehead, on his lips, then there was a ck thumb that protruded through his tongue. Some arms protruded from his shoulders. These arms also contained numerous eyes, but also mouths with a ck thumb on each of their tongues. It''s the same thing that happened in Harold. They were conscious, but they were probably feeling that they wanted to die at this very moment. Amelie inspected the two, specifically their Status Window that changed. [Activating Skill; Eye of the Darkest Spade (EX)] ... [Abomination] A non-Chaos thing that was corrupted by Chaos Aura. They were the subject of ughter. ... Strangely, they didn''t contain much information, even their stats seems hidden or they didn''t exist at all upon transformation. "Well, it''s not that I care... "Anyst words?" Amelie said, pointing her staff at Markim''s neck whose pairs of eyes darted around aimlessly. Then Markim''s original mouth, prior to him bing an Abomination, opened weakly, he looked at Amelie and then at Russell before he enigmatically said while stuttering... "W-wh-who i-is m-mo-mother?" ... "Thank you for your existence." Amelie said with curled-up lips to Markim and Harold as she brushed off Markim''s enigmatic words, and didn''t give Harold a chance to say anything as she thrust forward her staff with its spade-shaped tip dyed with her blood with the dark property. Amelie each stabbed them through their chest, destroying their hearts, and truly killing them. [The Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) has been used to kill an Abomination.] [The Staff of the Lost Shade''s growth increases.] [2/100 Abominations have been exterminated to rank up the Staff of the Lost Shade from Normal to Rare.] At that moment, the Staff of the Lost Spade emitted a majestic, pure, dark aura and enveloped the bodies of Markim and Harold which were sucked to the spade-shaped tip of the staff as though its ckness suddenly contained deepness on it. ... "What was that?" Russell asked in curiosity as he didn''t know what just happened. It''s an ''Unknown Element'' for him considering he didn''t know the existence of the Lady of Shaded Spade as ''She'' wasn''t in his unpublished novel. "It''s a tip given to me by my Constetion on how to rank up this weapon." Amelie said with a smile, and Russell didn''t pry any further as he knew that there were privatemunications that could happen anytime between a Constetion and a yer under a contract. "By the way, do you have Maya''s contact number, right?" Russell asked Amelie to which she nodded in response. She asked for Maya''s contact number before they went to this ce. "Alright, let''s leave now. We can''t let the other people here see us, and we don''t have memory maniption skills for them to forget our faces or whatever happened here. Just contact Maya and tell her we''d be waiting for her." Amelie nodded in response, then she opened the Spade Warp with its end-point located at Maya''s apartment a few blocks away from yer General Store. "Wait..." Russell said as he looked at Amelie before he asked something. Amelie nodded in response to Russell''s question with a grin. Then after some time, the two entered through the Spade Warp and vanished instantly. ... A few minutes after Russell and Amelie disappeared, Maya, with her parents whom she didn''t see for years, along with other 998 prisoners or force-to-be ves gradually saw the scene at the center of the underground facility. The zing fire that Markim caused was still engulfing some of the wide areas, but there were no other people aside from them. Although they were confused, each of them listened to Maya''s words as her shout reverberated. "An ident happened here! It''s our chance to escape! Let''s go!" Along with her words, she read the message she received from Amelie, who instructed her to do some things to wrap up the incident. Maya''s father and mother couldn''t believe how much their daughter grew over the past years as they nkly stared but dly listen to Maya who was leading the ves who are now free. After some time, other yers within the victims started to volunteer in arranging the others who still seemed confused, fearful, and anxious at the sudden circumstances they were thrown into. Maya lead them to the Emergency Exit where the bodies of 50 employees and four wardens that Amelie massacred were scattered on the ground. Even Maya, who saw the small, dark cross that protruded from their bodies retches at the sight, but as this was the moment of truth for her, topletely send away the victims far from this ce including her lost, but now found, family, she didn''t stop her pace and continued to traverse one of the wide hallways leading to the Emergency Exit. The victims alsoposed themselves and brushed off the image of the cryptic scene, and followed suit. ... "Don''t report it to the authorities!" Maya said loudly while standing behind the Emergency Exit which caused murmurs to spread around, but her next words seemed to hit them in the head which made them agree to what Maya just said. "Even if you are forcefully signed into a ve contract, it''s still a contract that can be used against you, and some of you, if not all, probably knew about the identity of the owner of this underground facility... That is sufficient that reporting it would rather be detrimental than beneficial... "Forget justice at this moment, but rather wait for the opportunity that mighte in the future! I know that what I''m saying is something uncertain... it''s still up to all of you to decide what you would do when you leave here." Maya looked around the wide hallway that could amodate the 998 victims which wereposed of elderly, teens, and even kids in their 12 or 13. It''s a truly shocking sight as Maya clenched her fist unknowingly because of the wickednessmitted in this wretched ce. "Thank you...!" "Thank you for saving us!" Maya''s thoughts were cut off as she heard the collective gratefulness of the people to which she responded with a nod with a smile on her face. Then, she opened the door of the Emergency Exit that''s at least 6 meters in horizontal length, and 8 meters in height. She, her parents, and some volunteers guide the others to the exit. These people saw the forested surroundings, howling with the cold wind in this deep of the night. It''s different from the certain restaurant where Russell, Amelie, and Maya entered through to ess the underground facility. ... After an unknown period of time, almost everyone left and walked their own ways. Maya looked and silently read again at thest instruction that Amelie ordered her to do. ''We left three carts of Urum mineral at the central area... Use them to blow up the facility...'' Chapter 111 Urum (UR) "Mom... Dad... please go first, I have one more business to finish." Maya missed her father and mother so much, but she knew better that it was not the right time to be emotional as it would affect her cognitive thinking to make rational decisions. Although it''s been years since shest saw her parents, she vividly remembers their eyes that were full of affection towards their daughter, and their embrace that made Maya felt safe whenever her skin touches theirs. She''s been suppressing herself to not make an outburst of emotions the moment she recognized her parents when she entered the Strayed Dungeon with Urum (UR), but she knew that every second mattered, and it made her appear like a cold daughter who seemed to be only forced in rescuing her parents. Her father and mother looked at each other and obeyed their daughter. As parents, they inwardly knew that their daughter changed after those years that they were gone, but they clearly felt, as transparent as clean water, that their daughter''s affection was being kept inside by her due to the situation they were in at this moment. "Here''s the money, please go to one of the nearest hotels from here. I''ll catch up as soon as possible... Mom... Dad..." For some reason, Amelie and Russell didn''t wait for her. They even warped through her home a few hours away from this region instead of waiting near an Air Train Station. She didn''t know why Russell and Amelie did it aside from avoiding being recognized by hundreds of people. And as if her thoughts could be read from afar, another message from Amelie rang in her ears, prompting her to bid a temporary goodbye to her parents, and started to walk through the wide metallic hallway back to the central area of the underground facility. Maya read the message, causing her lips to curl up warmly. ... "Instruction from Russell on how to blow up the carts of Urum. "Use your Dyed Bomb skill, and set it up for ten minutes, then leave the area. Don''t think about the cart''sposition, it seems like the cart was meant to hold the Urum exclusively, and not withstand an explosive skill. "It''s that simple, but be quick so you won''t be caught up. Enjoy the fireworks! "Anyway, we left earlier so that you can have a moment with your parents. See you, Maya. Heh heh." ... Central Area, Underground Facility Maya arrived at the central area and almost instantly saw the three carts of Urum, these carts were made from sturdy metal that was probably unordinary, it also contained ss that covered it from the top. The zing of fires that were caused by Markim didn''t even die down, but rather still burning the metallic environment. "Alright... this is it." Maya took a deep breath before using one of her skills that certainly saw by Russell or Amelie using their Status Appraisal Skill. [Activating Skill: Dyed Bomb (D+)] Soon, bombs made of Mana with a timer attached to them as if it''s something holographic appeared on Maya''s hands. These bombs were square and has a ck cover, but one could see inside each bomb the bluish Mana flowing calmly, which would be soon chaotic as time passes. Maya attached two bombs on each exterior of the cart, totaling six for three carts. "Sigh... Done." She turned her head and was about to quickly take her pace to leave the underground facility through the Emergency Exit when she saw a greatsword with a tail of a dragon carved on its de. "That''s a loot." She recognized the greatsword... It was what Markim used. Although she was curious about what fate befell him, she has no time to think about it as she grabbed the greatsword, and put it in her Dimensional Inventory as she was recognized instantly as the owner of it due to its original owner who died for reasons unknown to her, then she quickly left the area. ... After two to three minutes of running, Maya arrived at the Emergency Exit that was left open, then set her foot outside as the deep night entered her eyes, as well as the bluish moon hanging on the starry sky. She then looked around and saw no one as if the now free ves didn''t want to spend a second near this prison. Maya opens then the System''s Map that''s essible outside a Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Tower, and navigate her way back through it to one of the nearest hotels. "It''s at least 300 meters away..." She nced at the Emergency Exit and the stairs reaching below it as she realized how wide and spacious the underground facility was due to its distance from the entrance she, Russell, and Amelie used to go in. After closing the Emergency Exit from the outside, she quickly ran after using a buff that increases her Agility by a small number. Then as she ran through the forest, she saw some of the now-free ves and passed through them. Then, in the right direction, she saw the backs of her parents and ran to them. ... "Mom... Dad...!" Inside one of the hotel rooms that they rented, Maya opened up her emotions like a dam opening its spillway, letting the water of emotions flow to its extreme. Her eyes bawled out in tears as she hugged her parents as soon as they entered the hotel room. "Maya... I-I can''t believe it." Her father said in disbelief, but with tears in his eyes. "Maya... I never thought I-I''d see¡ª" Sobbing could be heard as the family reunited after a long time. "Mom... Dad... I missed you so much! I-I love you!" She said these words that seems shameful... When one''s family seemed to not be in dire situations, those words couldn''t be said unless it''s like in the final moments or moments of regretfulness. Her parents'' tears flowed down more, reached their cheeks, to their necks, and it touched the floor. "Maya..." It''s the only word that came out of her mother''s mouth as it was the hug... the action that spoke to Maya of their love, and how much they missed her. ... "I-I''m with my parents now... We''re at..." Maya texted Amelie as she called for room service to eat something on this deep night, almost midnight, it was also the first time in years that her parents would be able to eat something decent again after they became ves. ... Ding-! Dong-! The sound of the doorbell entered their ears as they sat in the living room of the hotel. "Maya... how do you have so much money?" It was her father who asked because the hotel they checked into was something quite expensive. Their initial n was to go to a cheap hotel, but after an advanced payment she received from Russell and Amelie, 50 million O each, totaling a hundred million, she didn''t hesitate to treat her parents to an expensive hotel. "Uhmm... I''ll tell youter, Dad, but first let''s eat, okay? You and Mom became thin, you know." She walked through the door after she said that, and after some time, she ced the bunch of food they ordered as soon as she received it from the hotel maid. ... Boom-! Boom-! Boom-! Just a minute after they received theirte-night meals, they heard ringing explosions from a few hundred meters away that quickly alerted the authorities of this particr region of Western Olympia. The explosions could be seen from the hotel window as they reached at least 30 meters up through the sky, and as though an earthquake has urred because it was from an underground location, the shaking of the earth could be felt even though they were a few hundred meters away from the explosions'' focus. The authorities quickly erected a certain barrier with the use of the government-issued artifact. This barrier negated the impact of the st, but even though it was negated or weakened, Maya felt a chill on her back due to its destructive power. ... "Knock-! Knock-!" After the explosions, and after the authorities calmed down the civilians who woke up from their deep night''s sleep, they heard a knock. "Click-! Creak-!" Maya opened the door and the creaking sound could be heard. She saw Amelie ¡ª who was still wearing the out-of-fashion ck pants, simple ck t-shirt, and a shoulder-length ck veil; and Russell ¡ª who was wearing ck shorts, a shirt, and a gray hooded jacket without the Mask of Night. "...Come in." Maya said warmly to which Amelie and Russell responded by entering the hotel room. ... "Mom... Dad... meet them. They''re the ones who helped me, and all of you escape from that hellhole." Maya introduced Russell and Amelie, but she didn''t say their names. "Good evening... Ma''am and Sir, I''m Russell, and this is mypanion, Amelie. We''re students from Obelisk Academy." Maya''s parents couldn''t believe their ears when they heard that they were Obelisk Academy students. They looked at Maya, asking for an exnation about something this absurd. "Mom... Dad... I know it''s hard to believe it, but they''re really the ones who helped me. They''re not normal students, and they wanted me to work for them as their personal attendant in the academy with 100 million a month as sry." Upon hearing Maya''s sry, her energetic parents who just finished eating had their eyes dted as their mouths agape at the ridiculous amount that they might not be able to see in a lifetime unless one was a sessful yer, and made efforts in getting recognized. Without waiting for Maya''s parents to say anything more, Russell interjected. "Ma''am, Sir, can you tell us about how you two ended up being a ve in that ce? I know that it might be hard for you two especially since you just escaped from there, but we really need to know." This incident was something that didn''t exist in Russell''s unpublished novel, but he believed that altering the story... especially in this part would be of benefit in the future. Aside from getting Maya to his side, Russell''s aim was the Urum minerals. ''It''s the upgraded version of Uranium... If it''s refined... a cart of it would probably destroy the entire Western Olympia.'' Russell said inwardly as he waits for Maya''s parents'' answer. After heaving a sigh as if they wanted to take a breather and forget the horrible experiences, Maya''s parents agreed in telling their story. ... "That''s what happened..." It was Maya''s father who told most of the story due to her mother''s emotional breakdown which seems to haunt her. Maya''s fists clenched as she heard the story, she then looked at Russell and Amelie. Maya''s parents were kidnapped on a secluded road as if the kidnappers knew that they were taking that certain route. Then with Arthur Wolfson''s presence, the Student Council President of the Obelisk Academy, they were forced or manipted into signing a contract that''s basically telling them to work until they die. "I think it''s the restaurant employees." Russell nodded at Amelie''s guess. The restaurant where the entrance of the underground facility was ced was certainly connected to the Shadow Guild. "How about we pay them a visit? I''m sure they''re awake after the explosions, probably contacting their boss." Russell said to which Amelie nodded with a smile. They bid their farewell to Maya and her parents as they vanished instantly from their spot. ... "Boss! The mining facility has been attacked! "I don''t know the details right now, but the authorities that aren''t on a payroll started to surround the area. What''s the next move, boss? They might find the secret entrance and will be led here..." A man in histe forties spoke calmly, awaiting the next order, through his smartwatch as he surveyed the area of explosion through the window of the second floor of the restaurant he was stationed. "Lie low for now. The Guild Master is in his sleep, we can''t wake him up at this hour to deliver the news." The boss said firmly, he''s one of the hand men of the Guild Master of Shadow Guild. He was being called a boss due to his authority ofmand under some branches of the Shadow Guild. "...Copy that, I''ll wait for the next or¡ª" Boom-! The man or the manager of the restaurant didn''t manage to finish his words, along with its employees that woke up due to explosions that were also part of the Shadow Guild, whether they were chefs, waiters, waitresses, or dishwashers, they were buried under the rubble as a huge, dark cross suddenly fell from the sky, destroying the entire restaurant. Chapter 112 Run Nine minutes before Amelie pounded the disguised restaurant owned by the Shadow Guild with the Spade Cross of Penitence. "ording to Maya''s parents, they wereing back from visiting the grave of Maya''s father''s parents. Then, thest ce they visited was one of the restaurants, specifically that one." Amelie said as she and Russell scouted the area where a two-floor restaurant had its lights off. The restaurant looked like something one would see in the countryside, it''s not too luxurious from the outside, but it''s somewhat decent, especially since it''s located near the Western Border of Olympia, the region bordering the major country, stor of the West. "ck Cat Pub... it''s a fancy name I''d say." Amelie said as she read the physical, not digital, signboard of the two-floored restaurant. Russell didn''t make any remarks about Amelie''s bubbling, rather he gave an order to her to scout the area and inspect discreetly the Status Window of the employees, especially the manager of the restaurant. Although Russell could do the same, it''s safer for Amelie to do such a job for one reason. It''s that Amelie''s Shade Transformation was something that''s unique, and could only be seen by ''special eyes'', but Russell''s Shadow Encroachment through the Mask of Night was somewhat rare, but not that unique, and he could be seen physically if the other party has excellent perception. Amelie nodded as her pink hair quickly turned into deep ck, it was the same for her ruby eyes. Then, she vanished from her spot, unseen by the naked eyes. ... ''One manager, three chefs, two dishwashers, two janitors, two cashiers, and there are two more... probably assigned to official finances?'' Amelie initially checked from quite a distance, while hovering in the air as though she was a poltergeist, if the people inside have something that would make her visible while using the Shade Transformation skill, but after some time of inspection using the Eye of the Darkest Spade (EX), she concluded that there''s no problem. She identified the jobs of the employees not through their professions because most of them were assassins going undercover and had built a base on this region, rather Amelie checked where they woke up just now; some in the kitchen, some in the back exit of the restaurant. She also heard what she presumed was the manager of the ck Cat Pub talking to someone he called ''boss'' through his smartwatch. ''It seems the branch manager of the previous underground facility is the strongest stationed here...'' Amelie judged based on the ranks of the employees inside the ck Cat Pub, they were scattered with cautiousness and not flocking near the manager, probably taking their stations naturally due to the explosions that they have connections with in some way. She reported what was necessary, and waited for Russell''s reply via telepathy while he was waiting from the outside. <...If you can take care of them, do it, I''ll follow up right away.> ... Boom-! Russell''s mouth was agape as he looked at the towering dark cross at least 30 meters in height that fell from a spade-shaped horizontal portal that appeared above the ck Cat Pub. During their fight inside the underground facility, he didn''t know how Amelie took care of the employees who ran away, the wardens who chased after her, as well as those who secured the carts of Urum. ''What the hell is that? That''s too conspicuous!'' The ck Cat Pub, although wasn''t at the center of Western Olympia, it has infrastructures near it. It''s a few blocks away from the expensive hotel that Maya rented for her parents. <...They''re all dead. What''s next, Russell?> Amelie''s casual voice sounded in Russell''s head as if she became a holy punisher that just punished some sinners. <...Amelie... what about that huge cross?> Russell asked how would they take care of it, then after pondering a little, Amelie said still in a casual way. Although it''s dangerous, they couldn''t just bring the huge, dark cross, and Russell realized that there might be more of it at the scene in the underground facility that was earlier destroyed through Urum''s explosive power. Russell quickly arrived at the scene, wearing the Mask of Night without using the Enchantment to change his physique. "It''s cryptic. By the way, let''s go. The neighborhood probably woke up, and the authorities are certainly on their way here right now." He began to analyze the future possible effects of this exposure, but with the existence of Constetions, most people would think that this was something sacrificial or ritual, but those who know the Shadow Guild, an information guild, their guesses would be narrowed down. "...Alright. let''s go, Russell. They won''t be able to trace us, you know." Although the culprit would be narrowed down, through their Nihility trait, it''s almost impossible to catch them post-operation, unless they''re caught personally. Russell nodded slightly at Amelie''s words and was about to go back when Amelie randomly said in a rxed tone. "ck Cat Pub... but it''s like an expensive two-floored restaurant..." Russell stopped moving upon hearing Amelie''s words, prompting her to also stop using the Spade Warp. Amelie was just about to ask what was wrong when Russell''s loud voice quickly registered in Amelie''s auricr sense. "Run!!!" Boom-! ... Amelie ¡ª in her Shade Transformation that Russell''s able to see ¡ª quickly run without asking why as she saw the grave expression painted on Russell''s face. Russell, while wearing the Mask of Night, blended in the shadows and leaves the area as soon as he felt something ominous. Boom-! A loud explosion was heard from inside the ck Cat Pub, then a burly man with short, messy gray hair, fierce yellow eyes, and a height of at least 184 cm jumped out of the ground of the supposed ck Cat Pub. Then Amelie felt like she was hit in the head upon realizing that the ck Cat Pub wasn''t the restaurant above, but rather a pub underground! Russell and Amelie instinctively scanned the Status Window of the burly man, then chills ran down their spine as they saw his rank and profession of him, who was darting around for some time before his sights stopped at the huge, dark cross. Amelie blurted out in telepathy, but Russell calmed her down by saying... Russell said as they arrived at one of the rooftops of a higher infrastructure. "But what''s that profession... He also has a contracted Constetion, and we never experience fighting someone with a Constetion." Amelie spoke with her mouth this time and not through telepathy. ''Shadow Crusader...'' Russell thought about the profession of the burly man who was now thoroughly observing the structure of the huge, dark cross. Then after some time, his eyes widened and hurriedly told Amelie again to run for their lives. ... The burly man looked around and saw the pile of bodies of the weak*ss employees managing the front of the ck Cat Pub. He looked at the towering dark cross that was used in killing the 12 employees of the Shadow Guild. It''s something he never saw in his life and he didn''t dare to touch the cross, continuing to maintain his cautiousness. ''Their presence vanished huh.'' He was sleeping in the ck Cat Pub, the underground pub managed by the Shadow Guild when he heard an impact from above, and when he felt that it was more serious than he thought, he didn''t hesitate to jump out of the ground which led him to discover the current scene. "It''s always a mistake to observe the crime one justmitted." The gray-haired, burly man muttered as his yellow eyes contained a luster as if gold was glittering. [Activating Skill: Hammer of Shadows] ... Boom-! A gigantic ck hammer, more massive than Amelie''s Spade Cross of Penitence mmed itself at the rooftop that Russell and Amelie were just standing on earlier. The gigantic ck hammer that came from a torn space continued its hammering as if it has a life on its own. "Unholy sh*t! Isn''t that man not concerned about civilians!? At least I calcted first my attack if it''ll cause coteral!" Amelie cursed as they quickly flee from where they were just before the hammer hit. The hammer''s size was at least 100 meters in length, and 10 meters wide. "It''s f*cking enormous..." Russell muttered, somewhat feeling sweat on his scalp on this cold night. "The civilians here are probably associated with the Shadow Guild, or forced to live here and be used as coterals in case something like this happens..." Russell said to Amelie his guess, then Amelie looked at him with a nk expression, that suddenly turned to anxiety. "Maya~" Both of them said at the same time as they quickly left to reach the hotel. ... "...Why are you doing this?" Maya said at the hotel maid who delivered the food they ordered previously, who was also apanied by two men in suits. "It''s just a protocol ma''am." The hotel maid spoke while standing at the door, blocking the way of Maya and her parents. "Protocol? Can you tell us the reason?" Maya felt that something was off, as she was hearing otherints through other hotel rooms. "...But... can you tell us first about your other twopanions you are with earlier? Where did they go?" The hotel maid spoke, though, with politeness, it contained an underlying sharpness as if she was under interrogation. Maya slightly flinched at the question, but it was a reaction that was barely noticeable. Creak-! "What''s the problem? What happened?" Amelie said as she came out of the bathroom of the hotel room, it was the same with Russell who came out of another bathroom after a minute or two after her. There were two bathrooms at this expensive hotel, and due to this reason, it''s the usible way that they came up with to avoid suspicions. "..." The hotel maid looked at the two, seemingly cleared of suspicions. "...Nothing... By the way, Ma''am, Sir. Sorry for the inconvenience." The hotel maid said before she and the two men in the suit left Maya''s rented hotel. ... "Russell, what happened?" Maya asked in concern while her parents who were sitting on a slightly long, gray couch alternatively looked at him and Amelie, waiting for their answer. "It''s fine, by the way, Sir, Ma''am, I have one more question... I''m certain that you might have heard something while inside the underground facility... did you hear if some people there were residents of this region? Or they came from another ce?" Amelie took a guess based on Russell''s question to which Maya''s mother responded, seemingly to remember some conversation she heard among the other ves. "As far as we remember... there''s no person there that came from this region." "I see... thank you, ma''am. By the way, we need to get out of this ce quickly. I think everyone here is affiliated with the Shadow Guild." Russell said in concern, but Maya and her parents didn''t question him, especially Maya''s parents who vividly remember their horrible experience in this region. "Russell... should we walk through the door? Or use a portal...?" Amelie asked as she judged that it was better to walk through the door and find somewhere secluded before using the Spade Warp. Russell pondered for some time at Amelie''s question who made sense. "Hmm..." Russell fell into a dilemma at Amelie''s question because he thought that it was better to use the Spade Warp, but the hotel maid would surely remember them as they were presumably part of the Shadow Guild donning a disguise. His anxiety and overthinking personality seemed to ovep at the moment. It''s either they used the Spade Warp and garner more suspicionster, or walked through the door and leave the hotel, but might turn out into something dangerous. "Sigh... let''s check out of the hotel first." After some time, he decided and chose to walk out of the hotel instead of instantly vanishing from their hotel room via Spade Warp. ... "Eliminate any unaffiliated people with pink hair or deep blue eyes." The hotel maid read an order from the burly man with gray hair. Chapter 113 What "It" Feels The Shadow Guild''s influence runs deep in the Western Region of Olympia, near the border between Olympia itself and stor, the Western country. Due to the Shadow Guild''s influence, a visitor of the region might unknowingly be interacting with someone affiliated with the Shadow Guild, and due to its nature as an ''Information'' Guild, or a guild that specializes in gathering information, whoever visited their area of influence would certainly be privately observed from afar or investigated if the situation calls for it. Visitors from other countries or within Olympia itself have different reasons for visiting such a ce; some may want to have a quiet life, taking a break from something as the Western Region has a rural-like atmosphere; some would visit their rtives, and some would travel, making the Western Region as their stop for their next destination. But, at this very moment, Russell''s instinct was telling him that almost, if not everyone, were under the Shadow Guild''s sphere of influence. It''s something that he didn''t expect, but due to his unpublished novel, his unexpected experiences, as well as the Untouched and Unknown Elements he encountered until this very moment, he remained calm as he, Amelie, Maya, and her parents just left a certain hotel, the one they were previously in. Maya''s parents didn''t notice it, but the prying eyes of the civilians in this certain town were cast onto them as they paced with heavy steps like prey being tired of running from their predator. Amelie said through telepathicmunication, staying on guard with the possible ambush. Russell listened to Amelie''s words and began to ponder for some time, taking notes of the Shadow Guild''s characteristics in his unpublished novel. What he didn''t anticipate was the Shadow Guild''s influence that''s rather been forced into the surrounding civilians with Arthur Wolfson''s psychological cue. At least, it''s what he presumed to be the case, but he wasn''t certain yet at this moment aside from the fact that Maya''s parents encountered Arthur Wolfson before they signed a contract, having no control over their bodies, which turned them into ves for four years until they were freed. Aside from being an ''Information Guild'', the Shadow Guild also specializes in the assassination, and the burly man that they encountered, an S rank yer who seemed to be the real sentinel of this certain part of the Western Region of Olympia, recognized them, if not fully, it''s one of their physical characteristics. Russell said as they continued their pacing, reaching a forested area. The quiet and cold atmosphere of the night was sending chills down his spine. After an unknown period of time, Amelie replied in wonder as she nced at Russell, she noticed that he didn''t finish his words. <... Let''s find a spot first, and quickly warp out of the area.> He said while feeling the iing yers that are after them. Their distance was at least a hundred meters away, but it''s the kind of distance they intentionally ced themselves in, not because they couldn''t catch up to them. ''If the S rankes, we''d be dead...'' Russell knew that the people behind them were no ordinary, and might even instantly kill them if they noticed that something was amiss with their actions. <...Russell, the hotel maid earlier is an A+ rank, and the other two men with her are A rank...> He didn''t have the time to check the Status Windows of the hotel maid and the two men with her after they went back to the hotel room as they left quickly after confirming his and Amelie''s presence, but he was d that Amelie managed to do so as she''s the first toe out of a bathroom before him. <...and the hotel maid''s profession... is something called Blinker. I don''t know what that is, you know.> Russell''s scalp tingled upon hearing the profession of the hotel maid who previously served them. The right course of action was to leave with everyone, and not intercept the pursuers, but there''s one problem that should be taken into ount. It''s what''s faster, their Nihility trait to be triggered in less than a second, or getting stabbed almost instantly the moment they do something suspicious. The Blinker profession was simr to Tracker, but the difference was that their speed of attack was instant. <...Amelie, did you check if the hotel maid from earlier has a contracted Constetion?> Russell asked in a hurry as they scurried in the forest, finding a certain spot that would block the pursuers'' vision even for a second. She said nonchntly as if the pursuers didn''t matter. ''I see...'' He thought upon hearing Amelie''s words, it was something that he knew from his unpublished novel, and the identity of the hotel maid was someone he also probably knew, but considering that he didn''t know Maya the moment he saw her for the first time, it''s likely the case for the hotel maid. <...Amelie, heal meter if the n goes smoothly... It''s not necessary to intercept them, but if I get caught...> He paused for a moment as they saw a toweringrge tree, then Russell slowly took out his sword, but this time, it was the sword whose name was unknown, not the Sword of Shad that he bought at Thorn of Rose, and used to beat up Bailey rkson. Spurt-! Maya and her parents'' eyes widened as they saw Russell cut his left pinky finger, and gave it to Amelie. ''F*ck! It f*cking hurts!'' Russell screamed inside due to the pain of intentionally cutting his own finger, but getting stabbed in the abdomen hurts more. <...Amelie, now!> Afterposing himself, as they walked behind therge tree, he gave the cue to Amelie who took out the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) in her Dimensional Inventory. ... "Ma''am, Team C reported, 30 has been terminated in our area of influence." A well-built, ck-haired man in a ck suit, standing atop a tree, said in politeness to the woman in hotel maid dress even at this moment. He''s referring to the people with either deep blue eyes or pink hair that have been killed under the orders of the burly man. "Is that so..." The hotel maid who''s a fake identity spoke casually as she looked towards the five people pacing deep in the forest this night. Two men and three women. Two of them were young, not even in their 20s, one is in her twenties, while the other two are probably in their early 50s orte 40s. Their targets were the man with deep blue eyes, and the woman with pink hair, but she didn''t attack instantly and observe first what was up with these people at this very deep of the night or past midnight, striding in the forest. The two men in the ck suit only observe the woman in hotel maid dress and didn''t question why they weren''t eliminating the targets from afar. They were not in a position to ask questions, but rather to only follow their superior. After some time, the woman in the hotel maid''s dress took out a pair of daggers which has a length of roughly 13 inches, the moment she saw the man with deep blue eyes took out a sword. The sword that caught her eyes was in in design as if it''s been under ruin for an unknown number of years. Although the five people''s backs were facing them, she caught a glimpse of the sword. She didn''t know the purpose of the man with deep blue eyes who took out a sword, but she caught the expression of the two women, the one in her twenties, and the older man among them, while the young woman has a calm expression. It''s very unusual... that the youngsters were ratherposed than those who were older than them. The moment she saw the young woman''s casual expression, she knew that something was amiss as she quickly activated her unique skill, but her target wasn''t the young woman, but the man with deep blue eyes with a readied weapon whom she deemed as dangerous. [Activating the Unique Skill: Strike Transmission (SS)] ... [Activating the Skill: Spade Warp (Unholy)] [Your Trait: Nihility has concealed the surroundings.] Amelie activated her skill, and without any exnation, she grabbed Maya and her parents and instantly threw them inside the warp that was designated to Maya''s home in the Northern Olympia. "...Russell" But the moment she looked at Russell beside her, she saw a pair of long daggers pierced into his chest from behind. Amelie looked at the woman in a hotel maid dress wearing a look of confusion. She analyzed the situation before he grabbed Russell from the woman, along with the dagger on his chest. ''She''s not seeing us.'' Although what hit Russell seemed instant that Amelie''s eyes dted, and were at a loss for words, sheposed herself and didn''t let her emotions get the best of her. She threw him inside the Spade Warp whose eyes were opened wide as a mouthful of blood escaped from his mouth, and before she followed suit, she shed her palm, letting the blood drips out of it as it ovepped with Russell''s blood on the ground. ... "...Ma''am? What happened? Where are they?" One of the two men in a ck suit asked in confusion as he looked at their superior whose eyes were in disbelief. She''s not holding her weapon anymore as it vanished from her sight as though it was a kind of writing that''s been erased into nothingness. She looked at the ground where a mouthful of blood appeared after some time as she fell into deep thought. ''...How?'' She''s shocked not because her weapon was lost, but rather it''s because of the terrifying concealment ability she encountered just now. [The Constetion, ''Double Edge''s Transmitter'', says that ''He'' didn''t see where they went.] Along with her confusion, she read the message of her Constetion from the System which added to her wonder, but the next message sent her sense back into reality. [Your Unique Skill''s condition has been triggered.] [Strike Transmission''s condition states that your target is needed to die within 8 hours the moment it hits.] [If the target lives after 8 hours the moment it hits, you''ll be penalized.] [Penalty: Body of Degeneration which will reduce your overall stats, excluding the Charm and Luck stats, by 70%.] [Time Remaining: 7:57:58] ''F*ck... F*ck!!!" Her Unique Skilles at a great cost because she''s only at an A+ rank, but when she reached a certain rank, the cost of using such an overpower skill would be reduced dramatically. "Ma''am, should we get the blood sample of the target? It can be used to track him down." She snapped out of her thoughts and nodded without any thinking upon hearing the suggestion of one of the two men, it wasn''t the previous one with a well-built body and ck hair, rather this one has gray hair, a fitted body, and ck eyes. "...Huh?" She heard his voice in wonder, prompting her to look at him. Then she saw the hands of the man turning ck, it was the same for the other man with a well-built body and ck hair. Without any warning, the two men copsed, and their bodies turned ck as if they were like charcoals. The woman in a hotel maid dress fell silent, looking at her deadpanions, to the point that the sounds of the cooing of some birds reverberated throughout the forested area. ... Inside the Chaos Training Grounds Sitting on one of the long chairs with a bottle of water in her hand, Amery, who has been resting after some time of training with a time difference of 1 Earth Day equals to 4 Chaos Training Grounds Days was jolted awake with the System message that appeared in her eyes. ... Standing up from her bed to go to the bathroom this early morning, Freya ¡ª who just woke up, feeling drowsy ¡ª saw a System message which made her body tremble before she fell to her knees. [Your Star Quest Party Member, Russell Moon, has died.] Chapter 114 Report Freya shouted in desperation in her mind the name of one of her Star Quest Party members. Her tone has a mix of anger while her heart and soul seemed to be torn to pieces at this very moment as she didn''t even call her older brother, ''Oppa'' like she usually does. She knew but didn''t say a word about it, that the rtionship between her older brother and Amelie was something very close. She didn''t even make a noise when she realized previously that Amelie was the first one to receive the Chaos trait, although it''s under the order of her older brother''s Constetion, it''s only natural to react somehow, being a younger sister, but she didn''t, instead, she just let it passed. Freya wanted to convince herself that the System message she just read just now was wrong, but it seemed as though the reality hits differently as Amelie didn''t quickly respond. Sitting on the floor of her dormitory room, with tears flowing down her face, and her heart thumping as if it would be crushed, she heard a "wooong~" sound that was familiar to her. A spade-shaped portal appeared in her dorm room where Amelie came out. Freya, ovee by her emotions, stood up and grabbed Amelie through her ck t-shirt''s cor. "W-wh-where..." Holding the Staff of the Lost Shade in her right hand, Amelie used her left hand to release Freya''s hold on her and quickly grabbed her through the Spade Warp. ... Amelie and Freya arrived at Maya''s home in a certain region of Northern Olympia. Freya''s eyes darted around and saw her older brother''s body covered in a pool of blood, lying on the floor. She slowly approached the body, fell to her knees, and looked at Amelie with confusion as though her mind was bing crazy, not able to think straight in front of her older brother''s body. "O-oppa...?" But at the moment her words came out of her mouth, she heard a response that gave her the creeps. "I''m here." She looked at her older brother''s body and touched his chest with a slightly small hole due to the pair of daggers that instantly pierced him, but she didn''t feel the beating of his heart. "Stop crying, will you?" "H-huh?" Freya ¡ª who thought that she was hearing things ¡ª saw a pair of feet in front of her, just above her older brother''s head. She looked up and saw her older brother, scratching his right cheek while looking at her with curled-up lips. "O-oppa!" She stood up and hug her older brother which caused Maya and her parents to have goosebumps all over them because Freya, in their vision, was hugging the air. As a Star Quest Party member, with Freya''s existence in the area, Amelie also saw Russell standing in front of his very own body. "O-Oppa? W-what''s happening? How are you there... a-and..." She was confused, looking at Russell in front of her and the body lying on the ground, but Russell answered her. "...Freya, don''t forget your identity." "Ah..." Freya realized that what she was seeing at this moment was not her older brother''s body, but rather his soul. As a Death Executioner, she''s capable of seeing the souls of people after they died. "B-but, Oppa, a Close Mystery Tower didn''t open yet... a-and my work as... you know, didn''t start yet." She said, somewhat cautious of Maya and her parents. ording to her Star Quest, she would need to cate souls every day from the moment the first Close Mystery Tower opens. "It doesn''t matter, the moment you became a Death Executioner, you can see souls, it''s just that you''re living in the academy premises, and not going out." Freya thought that what her older brother said made sense. "O-Oppa, I-I don''t know what to do. C-can youe back to your body?" ... Maya and her parents who heard the woman who just came with Amelie felt chills. They looked at Amelie with a confused look before Maya whispered to her. "A-Amelie...? W-what''s happening?" Amelie smiled and responded casually. "Uh... it''s kind of confidential, and I''m not allowed to divulge any information about it, but trust me, she''s not crazy." Maya didn''t respond further, rather she beckon her parents to go out for a while to let Amelie and the woman she was with do whatever needed to be done. After they left, Amelie interjected between the sibling''s conversation. "So... that''s how a soul looks like..." Amelie sized up Russell''s soul that she''s seeing with Freya around, and being a member of the Star Quest Party. Russell''s soul looked the same before he died, but the difference was that his body was more transparent. "By the way, Freya, you should use your Death''s Eye more often." Amelie said, prompting Freya to wear a look of confusion as she turned her head. "Sigh... really, I know it''s rude for you to stalk other people''s Status Window, but when it''s between us, stop that attitude, okay?" She sighed at Freya''s confused reaction. "W-what do you mean? What''s that got to do with the situation right now, huh?" She said with a moreposed selfpared to earlier. "You''re no fun. I will resurrect Russell, so stop your breakdown." With Amelie''s words, Freya became curious and quickly used her Death''s Eye (EX) skill, to check Amelie''s Status Window. She then saw a certain part of her Authority: Wheel of the Dark. "Dark Resurrection??" Freya''s mouth agape, reading the description of the skill before she looked at Russell with a smile. "Bingo!" Amelie''s lips curled up as she said that. ... "Maya, we''re leaving for now." Amelie texted Maya who left with her parents, then she and Freya carried Russell''s bloody body through the Spade Warp as they arrived at Russell''s dormitory room. ... "Alright, it''s the first time I''ll be using it, so... I don''t know what will happen." Amelie said after theyid down Russell''s body on the floor, causing it to be tainted with his blood. Freya ¡ª who was also tainted with blood after she held her older brother ¡ª sat on the couch, while Amelie remained standing, holding the Staff of the Lost Shade looked at Russell''s body. His soul came with them as if it were attached to the body. Amelie took three deep breaths for a moment before she activated the skill that was part of her Authority. [Activating Skill: Dark Resurrection (Forbidden)] [Warning! It''s a Forbidden skill. Using this skill might lead to being discovered by some Constetions.] [Your Trait: Nihility has concealed the surroundings, preventing the possible consequence to be prevented.] The moment Amelie activated the Dark Resurrection skill, her Staff of the Lost Shade left her hand and floated vertically while almost touching the floor, then Amelie''s pink hair stood up as the cold wind seemed to intensify, and her ruby eyes also turned intense with its luster, and both her hands instinctively formed a hand sign... It''s a praying sign, but the difference from themon praying sign was that her fingers aside from her thumb only touched each other''s tip, and half of her thumbs curled and touched each other''s back. It formed a spade-shaped symbol, the moment the space that Amalie''s hands made ovepped with the floating Staff of the Lost Shade. After a few seconds, three ovepping dark magic circles appeared on top of Russell''s lying dead body. These dark magic circles spun around as though they were personifying a wheel. Russell''s body emitted a dark aura with a mix of dark blue that might be signifying the color of the Chaos trait he has. The small hole in his chest where his heart was closed itself,pletely healed. His soul, which was with them, was slowly sucked into his own body as he opened his eyes wide,pletely resurrected. [The Dark Resurrection has been sessfully performed.] [The target possesses the Chaos trait, thus the target would not be your puppet.] ... "...Unholy sh*t! It''s like a f*cking cult ritual!" Amelie blurted out after she finished performing the skill and saw Russell sitting on the floor. Freya didn''t hesitate to approach her older brother and hugged him intensely. Russell looked at Amelie and nodded his head, while he caresses the back of his younger sister who was at a loss for words. ''That''s what it feels to die...'' He inwardly thought as he recalled the feeling of being dead. It was a very strange and terrifying experience. If not for his younger sister, a Death Executioner, he thought he would go insane while staring nkly at his dead body, and while Amelie was using her Dark Resurrection skill, his thoughts turned nk as though he was empty, unable to process any logic. "Hey... I''m here, stop crying." Heforted his younger sister as the sunlight started to pervade his dormitory room. ... At the underground ck Cat Pub. A woman in a hotel maid''s dress was sitting on a wooden stool while having the popr Nereian liquor. ''I''m d he died.'' She''s d that the penalty of her Unique Skill wouldn''t take effect. "Here''s the summary of the report, Sir Britz." She handed pieces of paper to the burly man drinking beside her. It''s the burly man that attacked Russell and Amelie. "Great work, Kei. It looks like you''ve been through a lot, take some days off, and go home for now." The hotel maid who managed to kill Russell named Kei clenched her fists upon hearing what Sir Britz said. "...I don''t have a home." She didn''t wait for Sir Britz to reply as she chugged down the Nereian liquor at this early in the morning and then hurriedly left. "Still as cold as ever, huh?" The bartender of the pub said casually, looking at the back of Kei before he slipped a piece of paper on the table, in front of Sir Britz. Sir Britz took the piece of paper which tells him the cost of renovation of the front and fake ck Cat Pub that''s destroyed by a gigantic, dark cross. "Hahaha, you''re right. She''s at that point when she''d kill her own family if she sees them." Sir Britz said before he looked at the report that Kei gave him. "Deep ck hair, deep blue eyes, pink hair, ruby eyes... Youngsters... Vanishedpletely, one dead... "Hahaha, things are getting interesting." He let out augh after reading the summary of the report. ... Early morning, inside the Conference Room of the Obelisk Organization Headquarters. "ording to Lunaria, in the uing October, a certain Close Mystery Tower will open. "It will be the first to open since its appearance in the world 40 years ago. "And based on Lunaria, just like a Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Towers, it has certain characteristics or themes, but this time, she specifically said what kind of Tower will open in a few months. "It''s called the Tower of Growth." The renowned individuals in the holographic screen as the virtual meeting takes ce had different reactions upon hearing Ayleen Mayfield''s words. "Please refer to this summary of the details I have received about the Tower of Growth." A holographic projection as though she was presenting in her ss was shown in everyone''s eyes. [Tower of Growth] ¨C It''s the tower that boosts the overall power of a yer. Number of Floors: 30 Characteristic: Challenge/Trial Theme: Monster Raiding Reward: Increased Growth Rate by 10 times upon clearing the 30th floor. Failure Penalty: (Not mentioned) Monster Raiding: ¨C Floor 1 to Floor 4 Objective: Kill 500 False Green Family monsters. Duration: 50 minutes Floor Rewards: ??? ¨C Floor 5 Objective: Kill the random Boss Monster of a certain False Green Family. Duration: 10 minutes ¨C Floor 6 to Floor 9 Objective: Kill 50 monsters of the Avian Family. Duration: 50 minutes ¨C Floor 10 Objective: Kill the Boss Monster, Karas, the Insane Harpy. ... "That''s all the information I''ve gathered through Lunaria, unfortunately, she only told me until about the 10th floor." Ayleen said after she let the representatives of the Obelisk Organization process what she just presented. After a minute or two, a man with deep blue eyes, and blonde hair, sping his hands atop the desk, asked in a dignified voice. It was the father of Leon and Mira of the Obreyon Family. "How certain is the information you gathered? Did the Boss Monster ask you for anything?" His dignified voice sounded through the holographic screen. Ayleen pondered for a moment before she answered politely. "Sir, I''m not sure at the moment about its authenticity, but we''re advised to wait for a month as a World Announcement would be announced regarding it." Murmurs sounded upon hearing Ayleen''s words because a World Announcement was something that rarely happens as it only urred eight times in 40 years. Not only it simultaneously happened twice more than a month ago, but rather, it would presumably happen again the next month. "I see... it seems times are changing." Leon''s and Mira''s father said with a serious look on his face. ... "Ah...? What do you need?" Alone with Samantha inside her dormitory room, Russell asked curiously. The ss for the morning just ended and it was lunch break at this time, he told his younger sister and Amelie that he has a business to take care of, and would catch up to themter. "Russell... are you perhaps an author?" Samantha frankly asked, prompting Russell''s eyes to constrict, turning his mind nk at the sudden and very unexpected question. Chapter 115 What Needs To Be Done "What do you mean?" Russell became cautious as soon as he heard the words that came out of Samantha''s mouth, who was sitting on her couch while he remained standing still before she beckoned him to take a seat. ''It''s been some time since you have not even paid attention to me, and yet you''re suddenly asking that?'' Hempooned inwardly before he listened to Samantha''s words. "There''s no hidden meaning or whatever, I''m just curious if you''re an author or if you like writing. "You see, I don''t know if your younger sister told you, but when we had an activity in P.P.E., in Professor Murak''s ss, I asked her what''s your hobby, then she told me that you liked reading books even though you barely had ess to one until a few years ago. "I also came to know where you two came from... "But I don''t care about where you came from, it''s just... I''m curious about it." Russell felt confused at Samantha''s way of speaking as if she didn''t want to even talk about it, and yet she was curious. But, what he noticed was the information about where they came from. Although he had expected it in some way, it was somehow irritating... that his family background was investigated. "...Yes, I like reading, but I''m not a writer." His first novel didn''t even get published in his previous life, instead, he reincarnated inside of it. It''s for this reason that he didn''t tell her that he''s a writer as he wouldn''t even consider himself one. "Is that so... alright, that''s all I wanted to ask, by the way, I''ve heard about your issue with the former Student Council Secretary, is it true?" Samantha asked calmly, but her atmosphere exudes fierceness the moment she asked the question. "Sigh... what do you think? Of course, it isn''t true." ''That f*cking Arthur...'' He cursed the sly, like cockroach Arthur Wolfson in his mind for spreading through Bailey rkson that he had sex with Victoria, the former Student Council Secretary. Due to his death at the hands of someone he knew from his unpublished novel, the woman in the hotel maid dress, the ns of eliminating Arthur were slightly distorted and would take more time to execute. "...Okay." Samantha sinctly replied before she stood up, nced at him before she added... "...Let''s have lunch, your younger sister is waiting, right?" He agreed with her words, then both of them walked out of her dormitory room and went to the Obelisk Cafeteria One. ... <...Freya! I''m sorry, okay? It''s not my choice. You might know already that I''m only following Russell.> Although everything was settled through Russell''s resurrection, Freya still felt left behind because she had no idea what Amelie and her older brother had gone through, and for what purpose. <...But my older brother didn''t tell you to just follow him, right?> Her voice was calm, but Amelie knew that it was emitting a cold emotion. The two were eating, but they were conversing through telepathy, through their connection with Chaos, and not with Freya''s Star Quest Party. <...I know, okay? But, I owe him my life. If it''s necessary, I could even give him my body.> Amelie said, but thest sentence made Freya forget the previous issue as she clenched her fist and looked fiercely at Amelie, who was eating at her side. <...You..! Have you no shame?! I know you have a tragic past that made you more mature than most people of your age, but we do too, although it''s a different case. Amelie didn''t expect Freya''s reaction to be this intense, but she just expressed her way of saying that she''d do anything for him as she didn''t have anything to go back to. ''My family? F*ck them.'' She said inwardly before she let out a sigh, then she seriously responded. <...Freya... sorry to say this, but it feels like you don''t know him at all when ites to women. He didn''t have any interest at all, so stop worrying even if I say such a thing. It''s just my way of saying that I''d do anything for him... to repay him.> <...And have you ever noticed how he wanted to avoid Samantha when he was asked for a dance during the Banquet of Obelisk? Who the heck wanted to avoid such an opportunity? All I can say is that don''t lump your brother to most men of his age when ites to women.> Freya took a deep breath upon hearing Amelie''s words which made sense. She knew that her brother was mature for his age, if not more mature than Amelie. After a few seconds of processing everything in her head, Freya asked in a calm tone with a mix of curiosity. <...Sigh... alright, what happened then? Tell me everything.> Amelie recounted everything without trying to withhold any information. From the time that Russell told Amelie about the n to bring a certain woman named Maya to be his personal assistant in the Obelisk Academy as a privileged A-1 student, then Amelie also told Freya that they raided a branch of the Shadow Guild that harbored ves where Maya''s parents were captives, it''s also when his summon named Ceru that he barelymanded had died upon engaging an A- rank branch manager, and after that, they raided the ce of the presumed cause of kidnappings, the ck Cat Pub, then they were attacked by a massive shadow hammer, and so on... to the point that Russell died. <...Why... Am I a burden... that he won''t bring me along?> Freya asked through telepathy, but who she asked was herself. She just voiced out her thoughts so that she could be heard by Amelie. <...Sigh... I know that you''re going to think that way, but that''s not the case at all. He''s just worried about you. Heck, if you came with us, I won''t be able to resurrect you two if you two died simultaneously due to unforeseen circumstances.> <...You probably saw the cooldown of the Dark Resurrection skill which is 60 Earth Days. It''s probably that way so it won''t get abused by going to the Chaos Training Grounds with the time difference.> Amelie voiced her thoughts, which Freya absorbed logically, not basing on her emotions that could block her thinking just like before when she came to know that her older brother died. Without waiting for Freya to respond, Amelie''s next words that echoed in her head caused her brows to prick up, and it made her stop eating before she nced to her side with constricted eyes where Amelie''s sitting. <...Maybe it''s just me, but when you appeared that also caused me to see Russell''s soul, it seems to me that he formed an expression that says that I shouldn''t resurrect him.> Freya was just about to say something when she saw from a distance her older brother, who was walking with Samantha Hall towards them. ... "Wee to the Obelisk Academy, Maya." Just a few minutes after the sses ended, Amelie weed Maya at the Obelisk Academy''s gate, but Maya''s expression was something she did expect because she told her that Russell''s alive. Maya had been asked to not talk about anything about what happened which was a very easy thing to do for her. She''s been asked to work for them, and they saved her parents, so just shutting her mouth to say something unbelievable when heard by others'' ears was probably a very small price to pay. "By the way, Russell''s in his dorm room. For some reason, he said that you''re going to register as my personal assistant instead of his. "Well,moners like us didn''t get the rmended butler or maids that the academy rmended, instead they wanted to do things alone. Maybe because of pride, perhaps?" Maya just listened to the talkative Amelie and didn''t ask any questions. ... After walking for some time, they arrived at the personal butler or maid assistant registration building, that''s part of the enrolment building. Then, after quickly processing the necessary documents due to the diligence of Obelisk staff, they managed to finish their business in a short amount of time, which made Maya an official butler of Amelie. "That''s about it, again, wee. "Wow, you''re already popr with some horny boys." Maya''s ears pricked up at Amelie''s words, doubting what she heard. Although for some reason, she was being gawked at by some people, men or women, she didn''t expect that word toe out of a minor''s mouth, but considering what happened previously, Maya realized that this pink-haired girl, one of her benefactors that she owes her parents life, must be a mature girl at her early age for some reasons unknown to her. "...Oh, Amelie. Hi! Your newly hired assistant, right?" Amelie stopped her walking, which also prompted Maya to stop, due to the voice that came from behind while they walked at Obelisk Public Grounds just after they finished Maya''s registration. She turned her head, and saw a shoulder-length, redhead woman with crimson eyes, wearing a smile that seemed to reach her ears, while her arms were wrapped around the arm of a certain man she was familiar with. "...Oh, Hello, Tanya, and... Ken. "Yes, she''s my butler." It was Tanya Drusi, the woman who clung to Han Jiho during their activity, the Virtual War, under Professor Murak, and Ken Raven, a ''Smoke Assassin'', themoner who managed to kick out someone through Ranking of Exchange and became an A-1 student. "...Why are you only having one now?" Tanya asked with a tone of sarcasm. Amelie scoffed before she nced at Ken Raven and Tanya alternatively. "...Why are you with Ken, instead of Jiho?" ''We''re not even f*cking close.'' Amelie cursed inwardly, it''s been more than 3 months since the sses started, it''s only natural for them to be familiar with each others'' names, but, even though that''s the case, each of them had their own circle of friends. "...Ah, sorry, we have an important business to do, and you probably can''t bite him. Hahaha." Amelie added, not giving Tanya a moment to reply, but it seemed like Amelie had hit a nail on her head. "What did you just say!?" But, before things get heated up, Ken Raven interjected. "Tanya, let''s go. It will be no good to make an issue, okay." Like a mother of her puppy, Tanya listened to Ken, then left with a fierce look at Amelie. ... "Who''s that?" Maya curiously asked as they take the Obelisk High-Speed Elevator ¡ª powered by Monster Core or Magic Stones ¡ª of the Rigel Building. "She''s a b*tch." That''s all that Amelie said that summed up Tanya. Ding-! "We''re here." Just a few seconds after they rode the Obelisk High-Speed Elevator, they arrived at Russell''s dorm floor, walked for a few seconds, then reached the door of Russell''s dorm room. Knock-! Knock-! Even though they were A-1 students, themoners didn''t want to use the doorbell, instead, they were used to knocking. ''Maybe it''s really themoner''s pride. Well, bullsh*t racism exists even mildly.'' Amelie wasn''t sure, but she, Freya, Russell, Amery, who dropped out, and othermoner A-1 students aside from Ken Raven, for some reason didn''t want to act like a noble. Click-! "...Come in." Her thoughts were cut off as Russell opened the door, and invited them toe in. She prompted Maya to go in first before she followed suit. For a reason that Amelie knew, Freya wasn''t with her older brother at this moment. ... Deep in the night, with the illumination of the bluish moon hanging above the starry sky, Freya ¡ª who was in her sleepwear ¡ª was standing by the window of her dorm, looking above the grandeur scenery that contained what humans couldn''t reach, the cosmos. Her expression was solemn, her untied deep ck hair was fluttering due to the intense cold wind, and her deep blue eyes were reflecting with the bluish moonlight. She muttered faintly, as a trace of tears flowed down her face. "...Amelie''s right." Chapter 116 Serious Talk A notification sounded on the smartwatch that Russell wears, prompting him to stop writing on the "Book of Changes" that he decided to write, to track the important changes that were worth considering whenpared to what he knew. Tap. Tap. Putting down the pen on his study desk from his right hand, he checked and read the message he just received. It was from his younger sister, Freya. He was used to being texted by his younger sister, especially when it was about his whereabouts, where and what to eat for dinner, and so on. It''s mostly the basics of conversation, but, at this very moment, Russell''s deep blue eyes constricted and felt like his heart skipped a beat before beating twice as fast as the regr beating. He felt his chest seemed to jump for a moment as he read the message that his younger sister had sent him, at this deep of the night. "Brother... I''ming over." She didn''t even ask if he was still awake as she knew that he sleeps most of the time atte night or even midnight, and she called him, "Brother", instead of "Oppa" which she usually does. Although it means the same thing, knowing his younger sister, Russell was very aware of the seriousness of the difference in how his younger sister addresses him. The only time he remembered that Freya''s seriousness was directed at him was when he tried to persistently drink booze that was left by their father in a refrigerator, especially when he''s already been warned that she would tell their parents. "...What''s wrong this time...?" He muttered, trying to rack his brain for whatever offensive he unintentionally did that caused his younger sister to tell him such a thing. After some time, all he could think about was when he and Amelie went through a series of life-and-death situations for the sake of having Maya and securing the Urum mineral for future use. ''But that''s already settled... Am I wrong...?'' He began to doubt whether the issue was solved or not, but he remembered the scolding he received a few moments just after his resurrection through Amelie''s authority. Knock-! Knock-! He was snapped out of his thoughts as he heard two slow knocks. Even though it was only a knock, it seemed to contain the heaviness of the emotions of the person standing behind the door. He stood up from his seat, walked with heavy steps, and ced his right hand on the doorknob of the door before he slowly twisted it. Clicked-! Creaked...! After the clicking sound that indicates that the door has been unlocked, he slowly opened it as a creaking sound entered his ears, and then, he saw his younger sister, Freya, with her eyes reddened while looking at him. "...Hey, hey, what happened?" Without waiting for his younger sister to reply, he grabbed his younger sister''s wrist, and Freya, who was held by her older brother, let herself be dragged inside the dormitory room. ... "...Tell me what''s bothering you." Sitting on the long,fortable gray couch, Russell looked beside him where his younger sister was sitting while looking at the floor as if she was frozen in ce. He didn''t bother to ask if she was okay as he knew that she was not at the moment. With her fair-skinned hands on herp, and without looking at her older brother, Freya spoke both in wonder and seriousness. "...Brother, I don''t want to talk about it before, but... do you perhaps know the future...?" Without waiting for her older brother to answer, and without looking beside her to check her older brother''s reaction, Freya continued to speak with the same tone. "...Brother... do you think it wouldn''t cross my mind at all?? "Before the sses started you went somewhere... and then you encountered something that made you a contractee of a Constetion. "...You told me that after you and Amelie saved me from Kevin. That time, I was also told by Amelie about her past. "...Do you know how happy I was when you didn''t keep a single thing from me...? "...Do you know how happy I was when you became strong to the point that I despised myself for being weak...? "...I-I wanted to be strong so that I could protect you, Mom, and Dad... "...I don''t want that to happen to our family again... "Brother... tell me, is there a single thing you left out when you told me everything...? From your Constetion, about Chaos, everything... "Even how you seemingly knew about the meaning of my recurring dream... and that I should just wait for some time, then vo! I got a contract with the Ruler of Death. "...This will be the first time I''m asking this, brother... I want you to be honest with me... "How did you know so many things when what you did when we were kids, when we barely have ess to anything, was just to read?" This time, Freya looked at Russell, then she saw her older brother wasn''t looking at her, but rather on the outside where the bluish moon was hanging above, spreading its serenity. Russell''s deep blue eyes contained nostalgia, something that Freya couldn''t understand due to the depth it expresses. Without looking at Freya who was sitting on his left side, Russell opened his mouth with a solemn tone. "...What made you ask me these questions?? Why now...?" The moment Freya started to talk, Russell''s mind turned nk as though it was blocked by gray clouds, and his heart started to thump heavily. But, he tried to focus and asked the important question he thought about. He felt that Freya wouldn''t ask such things out of nowhere, and there must be something that triggered her to act this way. He even thought that maybe Arthur, the Student Council President, got into her mind, but he quickly dismisses the thought due to the contents of Freya''s questions. ... Freya took two deep breaths, and let out a sigh before she looked down again at the floor while sping her hands. "...A-Amelie... She told me that she saw an expression in you when you were in your Soul Form... an expression that you didn''t want to get resurrected. "...And she told me, although she never questions your decisions, she felt that you knew many things that other people don''t. That''s why, brother... my curiosity hit me, and wanted to hear it from you. "...I realized that Amelie''s right... that you knew things, aside from Constetions and Chaos stuff... the fact that you somehow knew the true nature of Arthur, the Student Council President, and that he''s connected to Maya''s parents'' kidnapping ording to what you and Amelie told me previously... I don''t know brother... Please... enlighten me. If you know things about the future... and if what Amelie noticed was right... "...W-why don''t you want to be resurrected...?" ... Upon listening thoroughly through his younger sister''smentation, especially the question that she asked, he felt as though he was being stabbed countless times, yet he was unable to feel numb or die. He let out a sigh, and this time, he looked at his younger sister, who was also looking at him at this very moment after she finished speaking her thoughts. Both of them were not leaning on the gray couch as though rxing was something forbidden, then, after some time, Russell spoke what was necessary. "...Freya... I admire your desire to protect me and our parents, but... you are right... and wrong at the same time about me not wanting to be resurrected. "...Also, it''s something I wouldn''t be able to tell you, but you and Amelie are quite right... I know some things that will happen in the future... "...A-and..." He paused for a moment, but he felt like his soul was being crushed due to his breath which was gradually turning heavy. "...I want to use Amelie''s authority, the Dark Resurrection specifically... to escape the dangers that would befall us in the future. "Through it, I-I want to be dead in our parents'' eyes... then... I''ll be resurrected somewhere for the future, attracting every possible danger, leading them away from our parents that might be made coteral. "I-I''m sorry..." He felt pathetic. He never expected that Amelie would be able to catch a glimpse of him, making an expression that contradicts someone who loved being alive. "...I know." Freya''s next words caused his eyes to constrict while maintaining his serious expression that was nearing breaking down. She didn''t let him respond, rather she spoke in anguish. "...I didn''t know that''s what you wanted, but I realized something when Amelie told me that you had an expression of not wanting to be resurrected... when I considered the difficulty of the Star Quest that was bestowed unto me... I''m certain it would cause our parents to intensely worry... "...Oppa, Okay... I won''t ask you how you knew some things that will happen in the future, but can I ask you something? "Will it be terrible? "Will it be painful? "And... Oppa, I just want you to know, I''m here. If you feel burdened by the future, you can share the burden with me... There''s also Amelie and Amery, too. And who knows... maybe we''d have morepanions in the future, right?" Freya''s deep blue eyes were in tears, which started to flow down her cheeks, down to the floor, while maintaining a faint smile on her face as he looked at her older brother whose deep blue eyes slightly widened, seemingly preventing himself to tear up. He then responded with a smile. ''I''m not alone... This is not my previous life.'' Russell firmly said inwardly. p-! p-! He pped his cheeks before he heaved a sigh of relief. "Sigh... Thank you, Freya, really." He was grateful for having a sister like her. ... After an unknown period of time, Russell spoke casually. "...Come out. I know you''re there." Freya''s brows pricked up when she realized that her older brother was talking to someone. "A-Amelie?!" Amelie, in her Shade Transformation, came out of nowhere, which caused Freya''s eyes to widen. Deactivating her Shade Transformation, Amelie''s deep ck hair and deep ck eyes returned to their usual pink and ruby respectively. "I-I don''t mean to pry... but I heard everything." She scratched her right cheek while feeling embarrassed. "...No, it''s alright. You have the right to know. It''s just you never asked, although you noticed." Russell looked at her, then prompted her to take a seat, which she did, but on his bed instead of the couch. "Right timing, I''ll tell you what the near future holds. Although it''s better if Amery is with us, it''s not that of a big deal, so it will be fine even if she''s not. "...And one more thing, although I knew some things that will happen in the future, I don''t fully trust it, so it would be better to not rely on it most of the time." He said while recalling the Untouched Elements, as well as the Unknown Elements, the circumstances that deviated from what he knew. Amelie and Freya pricked up their ears, their auricr sense was in attentive mode upon hearing his words. ... "The first Close Mystery Tower will open in the next two months, October something, but there''s probably a World Announcement prior to that. "Close Mystery Towers are towers that are very differentpared to Strayed or Tower Dungeons that we usually know. "They have different characteristics or themes, and they could be essed either through the System or physically." Freya became curious about the ways how to ess it, so she asked curiously. "Oppa... what do you mean to ess through the System?" "Hmm... it''s like the System will ask you if you want to challenge the Close Mystery Tower, then you''ll just have to say ''Yes'' or ''No'', then if say ''Yes'', you''ll be transported inside the Tower." ''...It''s like the Trial of the Stars that the renowned yers today have gone through in the past.'' Russell thought as he answered his younger sister''s question. "The Close Mystery Tower that will open is called the Tower of Growth, and it will have 30 floors of challenges..." Russell continued to recount everything he knew about the Tower of Growth, causing a myriad of emotions and reactions to be painted on Amelie and Freya''s faces. "...What the hell is that Failure Penalty...? I guess there''s no such Growth Rate freebie in this world, huh...?" Amelie eximed upon hearing the Failure Penalty... that Ayleen Mayfield didn''t learn from Lunaria. ... In the middle of the night, inside a very spacious and luxurious dormitory room. Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President, was sitting on a high-back chair while ruminating over the call he received from the Guild Master of the Shadow Guild, his uncle, Draxan Wolfson. Gritting his teeth, his mind was a mess as he thought about the words of his uncle. ''Some people attacked the Shadow Guild''s Westernmost Branch?'' "...Who are they...? F*ck! "I need to acquire ''s Needle as soon as possible." Due to the loss of people or ves, he was asked again to work and find the necessary people to be made into ves as the former underground facility could just be rebuilt, but with stronger security, as the Strayed Dungeon where the Urum (UR) can be mined was still intact. Chapter 117 The End Of Something (1) Time quickly flew by, as quickly as how a human life of the Old World withered, and a month had passed since the serious conversation that Russell and Freya had. There weren''t many notable things that happened aside from Han Jiho and Anya Amasawa, asking Russell about the issue between him and Victoria, the former Student Council Secretary. During that time, Jiho noticed that Anya was not really interested in what they thought about the hidden nature of the Student Council President, Arthur Wolfson, instead, he thought that Anya was interested in him. He mistakenly arrived at the thought that she maybe was interested in him romantically, but on a certain day, Anya bombarded him with questions about himself, and she also mentioned Alexander Akalchelt, the Chancellor of the Obelisk Academy. She asked what''s their connection as it became known throughout the Obelisk Academy that Jiho was a student who was rmended by the Chancellor himself, one of the Strongest yers who barely cares about how the Obelisk Academy works in itself due to the talented and diligent staff that''s working for the Obelisk Academy to maintain its full function. To Han Jiho, he didn''t care about the interest that Anya have in him and Alexander, all he cared about was discovering the truth behind the possible "Dungeon Terrorism" that made their vige, the Sanctus Sris, became some sort of coteral damage that killed his parents, but when he asionally mentioned the issue to Alexander, the Chancellor, firmly denied such a case, which didn''t make sense to Han Jiho''s opinion because if there''s no Dungeon Terrorism that time, how came the Monster Stampede happened? That''s what bothers him the most. ... The two Princesses, Elizabeth and Rumia, during the month that quickly flew by, prepared for the Prisoners Execution that was entrusted to them after the semester. The guilty prisoners would be iparably stronger than those they killed before for the sake of training, physically and mentally. Although they maintained their daily academic and social life, they were somewhat nervous, not because they came to know the Prisoner Profiles of those who they meant to execute, but rather, because it would be done in front of their respective mother, the Queen of Etheria, and the Queen of Nereia. Then, when it came to their social life, they were still the cat and dog duo that seemed to meow and bark at each other when they found the opportunity to do so. But, during the month that quickly passed by, aside from attending the sses regrly, as well as their respective elective subjects, they somewhat get more closure to the friends that Samantha Hall mostly interacted with these days: Russell, Freya, and Amelie. For reasons unknown to the two Princesses, they felt like Samantha became more lively and became more interested in books. Then, there was a time when they saw Russell, when they asionally joined lunch with them, reacted strangely when Samantha asked him something with a smile on her face about a book. ... During the month that quickly flew by, Leon von Obreyon was constantly annoyed by his younger sister''s unnecessary presence, Mira von Obreyon, especially when he was training in the Exclusive Public Training Grounds that were only essible to A-1 students. Although for some reason, he admired his younger sister''s will to train in front of him to be stronger, he neverplimented her, but rather just watched her sometimes. Professor Murak''s yer Physical Education also made him realize the improvements in his younger sister, as well as how strong Han Jiho was, the individual he needed to ovee before he takes on Rumia, Anya, Elizabeth, andstly, Samantha. Then, he took notice of the student that managed to win in the Ranking of Exchange, one of his ssmates'' older brother, named Russell Moon. During the activity, simr to the Virtual War that they first went through, in which he lost to Anya by getting beheaded, Leon''s eyes didn''t escape how Russell acted, that Russell was holding himself back, but when he checked his Status Window using a general Status Appraisal Skill, as he didn''t have yet a contract with the promised Constetion by his father, he saw that Russell''s rank was only at E-. This made Leon think that maybe he was making such a wrong assumption about the individual named Russell, that he was hiding his skills. ... Ken Raven, the Obelisk student who fought Amery during the Disciplinary Trial Exam, amoner blood started to live his academy life invishness due to the privileges that an A-1 student has. He''s the onlymoner who epted the Obelisk Academy''s rmendation in having a butler and two maids. But, during the month that flew by, he never forgot to send the news to his parents about his academy life, though, for some underlying reasons, his regr action that happens most of the time, rather became often as though he was being forgetful of his family outside. Then, after some time, he made some friends and became close with Tanya Drusi, to the point of falling for her. ... Azalea Vermillion, the Disciplinary Committee President, just went to her business, being the secretive owner of the Thorn of Rose, the ck Market that''s running throughout the Orion Continent, making her a trillionaire at the young age of 19 Earth Years old. Aside from one of the Four Seeds of Direction that she managed to find at the Neo-Botany Museum at stor, the Western country, during this month that flew by, she didn''t manage to locate the remaining three seeds that she absolutely needed for her growth and her profession, even with the names of the location that Russell had given her. She even thought that some of them have yet to be discovered, which lead her to believe that Russell was either a madman, even though she already trusted him, or he was someone who knows things that other people usually don''t. But, she didn''t have any interest in uncovering every little secret he might have, rather, all she needed was to fulfill something by acquiring andpleting the Four Seeds of Direction that''s scattered throughout the Orion Continent. Then, one time in her ss, being a third-year or graduating student, number 1 in rank at that, after Arthur Wolfson, she asked her professor who was handling the subject, Advanced Magic Circle and System, the question she''s most curious about that''s not leaving her mind. It''s whether the System could show a decrypted message. She recalled the moment when Russell, Freya, and Amelie''s trait of Nihility covered her lies against the Orb of Truth when they were interrogated. And the answer she received was: - If you are not qualified to know, it would probably look like a decrypted message in your eyes. ... 12:01 A.M., present day, just after a month had passed. As though a nuclear warhead emergency rm sounded in everyone''s ears, everyone was jolted awake by the ringing in everyone''s head. Freya and Amelie ¡ª who slept over in Russell''s dormitory room, making him sleep on the floor over a nket as Freyay on his bed, while Amelie slept on the long, grayfortable couch ¡ª opened their eyes due to the constant "Ding-!" sound in their heads that stopped after a few seconds when they began to feel awake after their little stupor. They looked at the floor, but they didn''t see Russell, instead, they heard someone stirring something in the kitchen. Freya and Amelie looked at each other in wonder before they walked through the kitchen and saw Russell, who was making an Etherian ck Coffee. "...Oppa, you''re right. I can''t believe it, although I''m really curious how you knew this would happen, I won''t ask it, just... just tell me and Amelie about it, okay...?" Russell ¡ª with his back facing his younger sister and Amelie, who was sitting on the stool ¡ª smiled at his younger sister''s words before he turned around, holding two cups of Etherian ck Coffee. "...Okay." He replied with a smile as he put the two cups down on the table. Freya and Amelie then took each cup of it, before sipping it at almost the same time, which caused them to look at each other, prompting them to almost burst out inughter for an unknown reason. Russell was genuinely d about his younger sister''s approach. Although it''s already been a month since the serious talk they had, she''s reminding him to never left out anything, or else she didn''t know what to do if he was heavily burdened by something she couldn''t do anything about. At least, by sharing with her what he knew, he''d be sharing the burden, and wouldn''t feel alone. ''... She''s maturing...'' He thought as he recalled their previous conversation. The only way... for now... to avoid their parents bing coteral when the situation unexpectedly escted, and when their names became known throughout the human domain or the world, was to "intentionally" die and then let Amelie resurrect them through her Dark Resurrection skill under the Authority: Wheel of the Dark, that''s granted to her by the Lady of Shaded Spade. After settling everything, such as the news of their deaths to be known to their parents, they would then live somewhere, although dead in their parents'' eyes, but probably alive in their hearts. ''...Considering everything that happened, things are somewhat still peaceful for now, but it''s graduallying to an end.'' He poignantly thought before he took a sip of the Etherian ck Coffee that he made for himself as he took his seat across from his younger sister and Amelie. ... Ding-! Ding-! Ding-! [World Announcement!] For the beings of the Earth or 342, this announcement is to tell everyone that a Close Mystery Tower will open in 30 days, starting from the moment this is announced. The General Information about the Strayed and Dungeon Towers will be updated, and a section for the information about the Close Mystery Tower will then be added! For the overview, the Close Mystery Tower that will open in 30 days is: Close Mystery Tower: Tower of Growth! By clearing it, the yer''s growth rate will increase by 10 times! Good luck to every being in this world. May the Constetions be with you. ... Ayleen Mayfield was wide awake as she read the World Announcement that came true based on Lunaria''s words. Numerous calls already flooded her smartwatch as she quickly tidied herself up and left her dormitory room meant for faculty due to the urgent meeting that has been evoked. ... "...Russell, after we cleared this Tower of Growth, we''d start to raid a Chaos Dungeon, right?" Amelie asked as soon as they read the World Announcement. ''...Right... the Chaos Dungeon, it hasn''t been explored even though I acquired the True Key of Chaos a few months ago.'' Due to the System''s abnormal behavior, he suspected that the Chaos Dungeon might rather be extremely abnormal or unordinary, too. It''s for this reason that Russell sought to be stronger first than his current self as he just had this nagging feeling that it was suicide to enter a Chaos Dungeon without any preparation. ''...I hope this will be enough preparation.'' He inwardly thought before he nodded in response to Amelie''s words. ... The wide-awake Samantha Hall poignantly asked the voice in her head. <...> The dignified, womanly voice in Samantha''s head fell silent. Samantha nagged the voice in her head which was unnaturally silent this time just like when she was talking in front of a certain someone. She didn''t manage to contain her patience, causing her to give up for now. "...Mom... I miss you." She muttered poignantly as she hugged arge pink pillow, before quickly falling asleep. Chapter 118 The End Of Something (2) At Obelisk Organization Headquarters, Conference Hall, 12:31 A.M. Ayleen Mayfield ¡ª in more formal clothespared to when she''s dressed up as a professor ¡ª was standing in front of the Conference Room as a meeting was quickly evoked just a minute after the World Announcement about the Tower of Growth was announced. Behind her was arge holographic screen where iplete information about the Tower of Growth has been presented. "So, that Boss Monster was right..." A dignified and noble voice of a man sounded in the entire Conference Room. This time, the key figures of the Obelisk Organization made time to personally attend the meeting through the respective Portal in the Obelisk Organization Headquarters that were connected to their respective homes and it''s not only the TOP 10 yers that were inside the Conference Room; there were also other attendants necessary this time. Not everyone has a very high rankpared to others, rather, it''s their profession that qualified them to attend the meeting. Professions rted to Interpreting, Teleporting, and Psychology. There were two people whose profession was rted to interpreting or tranting, although the System allowed humans to be able tomunicate with each other despite thenguage barrier, it''s not the same case with the Elves and Dwarves. These two yers were writing everything they could or what was ordered to them to write, and tranted it to their assigned kingdom''snguage to visit; the Elnira Kingdom and the Vulcan Kingdom. There were also two people with the profession that specialized in Teleportation; each of these yers would apany each interpreter. Even with the existence of the Portals, there was an unwritten pact between the Elnira Kingdom, Vulcan Kingdom, and Orion Continent where humanity resides. It''s a pact that says: - "No Portal shall be built to be coordinated in another country." The reason for this was very simple; in terms of unknown variables that might happen throughout the world, although the kingdoms were somewhat friendly with each other, in the moment of disaster, betrayal might happen. And with the Portal, if coordinated with another country, might be used for a strategic attack to quickly invade the enemy''s capital or infiltrate important infrastructures. "Fortunately, or unfortunately, yes. Lunaria''s right." It was Ayleen''s firm but the still captivating voice. The two Interpreters waiting for the orders of higher-ups, and the two Teleporters who would each apany them were silent. They didn''t have a voice in this Conference Room, and just sitting with these big shots felt suffocating. "Still... that Boss Monster didn''t say anything about the Failure Penalty?" The voice of the same man from earlier sounded in the Conference Room as he took a sip of Nereian ck Coffee at this very hour. "You keep calling him Boss Monster, that being clearly was something else." "Right, how can such a being predicted the opening of a Close Mystery Tower? Did she have a connection with the System itself?" "Hahaha! These two queens, are you two out of your mind? The System doesn''t favor anyone." "It''s been more than 40 years, and we couldn''t even explore the other side of the world because of that ''thing'' that''s blocking the way. There are many unknown, Draxian. You couldn''t be sure." Draxian von Obreyon ¡ª the father of Leon von Obreyon and Mira von Obreyon ¡ª who''s contracted with the Constetion, ''Lord of the ck Dragon'' scoffed at Rosalin Flora, the Queen of Nereia. He didn''t respond because Rosalin was right. Even though he didn''t tell these people what his Constetion had said to him... about their influence to be stronger the moment the first Close Mystery Tower opens, and how it would affect the entire world, rather he looked at Eliana von Etherion, the Queen of Etheria before he spoke in the same tone of casualness. "What did your Constetion tells you? If I''m right..." He paused before he cast his to Emmanuel Lyncoster, the schr and researcher that''s dedicated to uncovering the truth behind the Emergence. Emmanuel, who knew what Draxian was referring to, stood up and looked at everyone in the Conference Room. "Yes, the first case of the Flu, Post-Emergence has been recorded." Murmurs of the unaware resounded in the Conference Room as the atmosphere seemed to turn colder at this hour. Since the Emergence happened, any physical diseases even the seemed incurable cancer had ceased in existence, but this time, for some reason, the flu came back out of nowhere. The murmurs dissipated instantly as though it were a fleeting wind because the lower-rank people, who had the honor ofing here, knew their ce. Eliana raised her hand. All attention focused on her. "About that... my Constetion said that it would only be the flu that woulde back. So, we don''t need to worry about the other diseases, especially the chronic ones." The people here trusted her words, causing a seemingly collective sigh of relief to escape from some of them. Emmanuel, who had been told by Eliana beforehand, took his seat; however, he was stopped by a very dignified man that everyone in this room, aside from some people who harbored negative emotions, adored. "...Sir Artorious?" Samantha Hall''s father raised his right hand. "Can you share with everyone here about the profiles of the true discoverer of the First Micro-Strayed Dungeon?" Emmanuel didn''t how to react. Although he bought the rights to the first discoverer Micro-Strayed Dungeon from Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Amery; he knew that he would be asked about their original discoverer. "...Hey man, what are you up to?" At this moment, Makoto Amasawa, Anya Amasawa''s father, the second richest man in the Orion Continent asked in confusion. His personality, just like how he talked with his daughter was that of a friendly-going. Even though most people here had reached middle age, he considered them just like brothers and sisters, especially Artorious who was with him during the Trial of the Stars ¨C the mysterious series of trials that only the survivors knew about. The TOP 10 yers knew about it already, but Ayleen, who wasn''t at TOP 10 was confused as the report had said that it was the Obelisk Organization that discovered it. ''Did he buy the rights for it? That''s expensive.'' She thought, before Emmanuel''s gaze was cast on her, prompting her to leave the presentation area as Emmanuel took ce. ... "That''s everything about them." ''They are my students...'' After Emmanuel briefly presented the profiles of the four students who "identally" ventured on the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon: Vein of Immunosar, Ayleen recalled how the four acted in ss before Amery dropped out. All of them looked at Artorious, sitting in the middle of the end of the Conference Room. "These students lied about something if I''m right ording to the report submitted by your secretary. "Do you think they know something about this phenomenon?" Artorious Hall seriously asked as his eyes which seemed to depict broken ss, looked at Emmanuel. "Haha! Hahahahahaha! "Artorious, are you still sleepy? How do you evene up with such a hypothesis?" It was Draxian whoughed as he couldn''t take Artorious Hall''s words seriously. "How about we find out?" He abruptly snapped his fingers, causing everyone in the room, especially those with the idea of what''s about to happen to have their expression turned serious. "Stop what you are about to do right now, Sir." It was Ayleen Mayfield who spoke. She''s feeling afraid of what''s about to happen due to the coldness and seemingly emotionless that Artorious Hall exuded. "Please, respect the students'' privacy. "And... let me be the one to ask them." Ayleen pleaded, causing Artorious to pause and scrutinize her. "Man, just what are you thinking...? You can''t just bring those students here at this hour." Makoto interjected as he nodded at Ayleen. "Okay. I''ll entrust this task to you." For some reason, Artorious looked like he fell into deep thought; the others couldn''t know what he was thinking at that moment. Just like that, the sudden meeting continued for some time. ... After some time of their discussion, Russell, Freya, and Amelie visited Amery in the Chaos Training Grounds ¡ª who, in the past month, was informed that Russell was alive as he also received a notification about Russell''s death through Freya''s Star Quest Party. From time to time, Freya and Amery were having mock battles. Freya was mostly the winner since Amery was only granted the Chaos Buff (EX) from Russell unlike Amelie and Freya, who managed to make a contract with their respective Constetion. "Amery, next month, we''ll raid the Tower of Growth." It was Russell who spoke casually just after Amery ended her mock battle with Freya. "Tower of Growth... what''s that?" Amery ¡ª who was sitting on one of the benches ¡ª asked in wonder. "Of course, that''s the case... Hahaha." Russell didn''t contain himself as he let out a self-deprecatingugh. ''How stupid of me.'' Hempooned inwardly as he realized that it was only a World Announcement, and the Chaos Training Grounds weren''t part of the said world, which means the reason Amery didn''t receive such a System notification was because she wasn''t on Earth. Russell then quickly exined about it before he, Freya, and Amelie left her as they went back to Earth. ... "Russell, based on the Failure Penalty you said to us, do you n to do anything to lessen the repercussions it would bring?" Amelie, in a serious mode, not the usual cheeky one, asked firmly. "Although I don''t like being a hero, at least I don''t want some people to die because of that Failure Penalty." She added, waiting for Russell to answer. But, surprisingly, it was Freya who firmly responded. "Oppa... if the Failure Penalty is based on the future you saw... if they really love their family... it would be okay right? *...I can''t believe it wille out of my mouth, but please, don''t burden yourself as they are not your responsibility." Russell formed a faint smile upon hearing his younger sister''s words; something he didn''t expect woulde out of her mouth at this young age of almost 16. He was heavily burdened. If he knew that he would be reincarnated inside his unpublished "failed" novel, he wouldn''t dare to write something like that. ''F*ck...'' He cursed softly in his mind which seemed exhausted. "How about this..." After pondering a little, he told the two of them about the only help he could attempt to give. ... After the Conference meeting, Ayleen went back to her dormitory room in the Teacher''s Faculty Building. Opening the door to her dormitory, she saw a note on the floor that prompted her to stop. She then picked up the piece of paper and read it in her mind. ''This...'' Her purple eyes constricted as he read the information written starting with the words: - "Deploy the Obelisk Military..." The Obelisk Military was the group of yers, unlike themon military that the Old World had, that was in charge of maintaining peace throughout the city. The professions of yers under this governmental department were rare professions like Melee Soldier, Archer Soldier, Healer Soldier, and so on. The difference between them and general professions like a swordsman, archers, healers, and so on was that their Stamina recovery was very high, and they possessed Soldier-exclusive passive skills. "...Is this a prank? Sigh... kids these days... It''s super early, too." Ayleen muttered, before entering her dormitory room. ''I need to contact those studentster. There''s at least a month left before the Tower of Growth opens.'' She thought inwardly before she slumped on the couch with her exhausted mind. ... ''Though she would inform themter... it would be a littlete.'' Russell thought inwardly as he left a note on Ayleen Mayfield''s doorstep. He chose to tell her the preventive measure to minimize the casualties that he would expect to happen because she''s one of those people with "real" patriotism towards humanity like Emmanuel Lyncoster. He looked at his younger sister''s face that quickly fell asleep; the same with Amelie. ''I guess floor it is...'' He thought before lying on the floor of his own dormitory room. Chapter 119 The End Of Something (3) ¨C "BREAKING NEWS: The first Close Mystery Tower ever has been announced to be opened in the uing month! "Many ordinary yers are awaiting the briefing of the Obelisk Organization. "What will be the impact of the first opening of the Close Mystery Tower in 40 years? "Will it bring catastrophe? Or will it be something for humanity to thrive more?" ... In the early morning, when the normal routine of everyday life started after the World Announcement, the media outlets and the inte were flooded by spections, but most of them were positive ording to the Close Mystery Tower''s name: Tower of Growth. Many of the yers suspected that it would lead to something incredible... Something about their growth... something that couldn''t be easily increased especially by less resourceful yers. "...They''re not wrong, it''s just...'' Russell ¡ª who was browsing on hisptop he ordered in the ck Market: Thorn of Rose ¡ª paused for a moment and thought about what he didst night. He didn''t let Freya and Amelie apany him for one reason: Emmanuel Lyncoster''s authority. The moment Ayleen Mayfield realized that the Obelisk Organization was ought to mobilize the Obelisk Military to lessen the future casualties that would be caused by the Tower of Growth, she would certainly ask Emmanuel to use his authority to find the owner of the paper, but due to Russell''s Trait: Nihility that has been further strengthened with the blessing of the mysterious Egg that was silent for a while ¡ª which was also the same case with the Goddess of Night ¡ª he wouldn''t appear in the World of the Past. "Unless... she threw it away... "That would be a shame." He muttered before closing theptop that was sitting on his abdomen while his back was leaning on the side of the long couch where Amelie was still gracefully sleeping. He knew that he was not a hero, the same with Amelie; they''re not responsible for the lives of many. "Hmm..." He fell into thought as he put theptop on the side, and looked at her soundly sleeping younger sister. During the past month, since they had their serious conversation, she somehow changed; however, Russell knew that she was burdened by the responsibility she was meant to bear in the future, especially since it was only a month away since she would start to cate and bring rest to souls every day. ''I wonder why she isn''t summoning Estelle?'' For some time now, Freya wasn''t summoning her familiar. ''Maybe she just didn''t want to summon her without a purpose.'' Although that somehow made sense, Russell was convinced that Freya mostly move with a purpose in mind. After an unknown period of time, the Sun started to rise through the horizon. Russell had woken up his younger sister and Amelie. "Hey, it''s time for training." Since it''s Saturday, 16th of September, 2062. There were no academic sses. With the two women in a state of stupor, Russell picked up the remote control for the television and volumed it up. ¨C "BREAKING NEWS:..." Another breaking news sounded as though it was screaming in fealty, jolting awake the half-sleep Freya and Amelie. "Yawn-" Russell smiled at the stretching and yawning Freya before he toned down the volume of the television. "Oppa..." Freya spoke softly, causing Russell''s ears to prick up. "...Hmm? I prepared breakfast." "...No, no. Come here." "Ugh-" Russell received a slightly strong punch on his abdomen, causing him to reflexively bend his body as his hands also reflexively touched his abdomen. She didn''t exin her actions as Russell knew what he did. "...Amelie, let''s go. They''re waiting." The two went to the kitchen, where the breakfast was served, instead on the usual rectangr ss table in the living room that''s just beside the bedroom. ... At Exclusive Public Training Grounds. This time, they weren''t going to the Chaos Training Grounds, but rather to the training ground that''s only essible for A-1 students residing in the Rigel Building. Arriving at the training grounds, Russell, along with his younger sister and Amelie, saw Samantha, Anya, Jiho, and there''s also Mira, Leon''s younger sister, and one of her friends who managed to kick out someone from A-1 ss during the Ranking of Exchange, Lyn. Although there were only 40 students in the entire Rigel Building, it seemed like there were others, aside from them, who wanted to use the training ground. "...Is that Celine?" Celine, the light green-eyed and green-haired timid woman, who conjured Pure Form of Potions during the Virtual War activity from Professor Murak, was unexpectedly sitting on one of the benches. ''...Isn''t she an alchemist...? she should be in the library.'' Russell ¡ª who heard Freya''s question ¡ª spoke inwardly. "I asked her to be here, I''ll bring her with me to the Tower of Growth next month." It was Samantha who spoke as she approached Freya. Russell thought that it made sense for Celine to garner Samantha''s attention. Even though he''s been a ssmate with her for a while now, he didn''t inspect the Status Window of everyone in the ss as he thought that they were unnecessary at the moment. ''Pure Form of Potions... huh.'' [Activating Skill: Gaze of the Abyss (EX)] Russell checked the timid Celine''s Status Window from a distance. ''...Eh?'' "Is that so... I wonder what''s the limit of the party...?" Freya replied to Samantha while Russell fell into thought, but she already knew the answer based on what her older brother previously said. "It''s probably around... 4? No, I''m not sure." Samantha replied casually, but it broke Russell''s little reverie while checking Celine''s Status Window. It didn''t escape Russell''s senses... noticing the unusual reaction of Samantha seemed to contain assurance in her tone. Although Samantha said the wrong answer, he felt like it was deliberately spoken. "Anyway, if it''s not 4, then maybe we can form a party, right?" "Well, how can we refuse such an opportunity?" Amelie interjected with a cheerful smile, to which Samantha responded with a faint one before they started their training. ... After a few hours, a woman was slumped down on the ground. Huff- Huff- The sound of heavy breathing could be heard from her. ''Why did I need to go through this...? I should just make potions...'' Celinemented in her mind as Samantha taught her defensive tips like where she should go when a monster runs from a certain direction. Basically, she''s being taught how not to panic in front of a monster, but this time, it was Samantha who seemingly appeared as a monster for her. ''At least I get to make potions for these people.'' She at least consoled herself. Even though her potions were unlike the time from the Virtual War where she had just conjured a Pure Form Potion, she was still able to concoct a Pure Form Potion by any chance. And at this moment, Samantha was supporting her, which also helped in raising the level of her potion-making-rted skills. "H-here... e-everyone." She took out a few Stamina Potions for them, although she''s not close with Russell and the others due to her timid personality, Samantha asked her beforehand to give them the necessary potions when it''s resting time. ''Sigh... I feel like bing rich soon enough.'' Like Russell, Celine was talkative in her mind, and also when she was alone. ... - "Arthur, the money will be sent to you next month. With the appearance of the new Tower, the Guild Master has decided to prioritize raiding it when the additional information has been added to the System." "F*ck!" He cursed intensely while sitting on the high-back chair. The extra money he needed to buy ''s Needle would arrive next month, instead of this one. "I f*cking need it as soon as possible." Although he could borrow some money from some of the members of the Weaver Faction just like through Reinhardt and Ruina, he absolutely rejected the idea as he would rather die than tarnish his reputation. Tap. Tap. After a minute or two, he tapped into his smartwatch and sent a message to Amelie ¡ª the mediator of the transaction. "Please tell him I''ll purchase the artifacts, ''s Needle and Junain''s nket next month." ... Ding-! [Supplementary Announcement!] The information regarding the Tower of Growth will now be added to the "Close Mystery Tower" of the Information Section. ... At exactly 6:01 P.M., 18 hours since the World Announcement about the Tower of Growth was announced throughout the world, the Information Section regarding Towers has been updated in the System. Russell ¡ª who was now lying on his bed in his dormitory room at this hour after some time of training with the others ¡ª browsed the information regarding the Tower of Growth to check if there was anything amiss or had changed. ... [Information Section] Category: ¨C Close Mystery Tower [Tower of Growth] ¨C Description: It is the ancient tower that appeared after a certain major event. With its opening, the true journey of a yer will begin. ¨C Details: Number of Floors: 30 Characteristic: Trial Theme: Monster Raiding (From 1st to 29th floor). yer Assessment (30th floor). Maximum Number per Party: 10 Allotted time for four floors: 50 minutes Allotted time every fifth floor: 10 minutes Reward when clearing every fifth floor: Random Rare to Unique-rank item. Reward when thest floor is cleared: Growth Rate increases by 10 times. Failure Penalty: ??? Mode of ess: Virtual (via System) Duration until the Tower of Growth opens: 7XX hours. ... Ayleen Mayfield ¡ª who was arranging some paperwork ¡ª stopped and browsed the additional information from the System''s update. Shepared it to what Lunaria had told her. At first, she thought that Lunaria lied when it came to the theme of the Tower of Growth because Lunaria didn''t mention anything about yer Assessment. ''Maybe she didn''t know.'' She pondered a little while fidgeting with a pen in her hand. Ring- Ring- Her thoughts were cut off by a call through her smartwatch. "Okay, I''m on my way." She said on the other end of the call before she hung up. ''Sigh... it''s work again.'' ... Knock-! Knock-! "Yes. Come in." Azalea''s soft voice sounded as she heard a knock on the door of the Disciplinary Committee Office, but she had an idea about the person''s identity. "Good evening, Azalea... and, hello...?" The guest greeted Azalea before looking around as there were other people in the office right now. "Yes, Ms. Ayleen. I called them here based on your request." Azalea replied with a smile. The reason why Ayleen went to the Disciplinary Committee Office wasn''t because of the Disciplinary Committee President, but due to the other guests. "Right... hello, Russell, Freya, and Amelie, if I remember correctly. "Alright, without further ado, I called you here for something... and it should be okay for Azalea to remain here because she''s somehow rted to it. "It''s about your experience regarding the Micro-Strayed Dungeon. "But first, I''d like the four of you to sign this..." Ayleen spoke somewhat in a formal tone before taking out four pieces of paper. "This is not a Mana Contract as it would be absurd between a teacher and student to do as it would vite your rights. This only serves as an assurance that whatever will be talked about here, at this moment, must not be told to anyone, in any way. "We know that the four of you, including the one who dropped out, had passed the interrogation under the witness of the Legendary Artifact: Orb of Truth, but... ''Why am I here? Second-guessing these kids.'' She felt tired mentally due to the very unexpected sequence of events; from the World Announcement, the Flu''s return, Artorious Hall''s sudden suggestion, and so on. The four of them signed the "consent paper". It''s consent for their cooperation because, as students with the cleared case about the Micro-Strayed Dungeon, they had the right to reject their present predicament. "Alright, thank you. To be honest... I don''t want to do this as all of you have been cleared of suspicions under the Orb of Truth, but I came here under Sir Artorious Hall''s order." ... Russell seriously said to Amelie and Freya via Telepathy through their "Chaos Connection" as he felt cold sweat on his scalp as he heard Ayleen''s words about Artorious Hall ¡ª Samantha''s father. Chapter 120 The End Of Something (4) "That will be all. Thank you for your cooperation, and I apologize for taking up some of your time unrted to yer academics." After twenty to thirty minutes, the seemingly eternal interrogation came to an end. Ayleen Mayfield then left Russell and the others in the Disciplinary Committee Office with a sigh of resignation. ''What a soft-hearted woman.'' Russell inwardly thought as he nced at his younger sister from the side of the long couch they were seating on. Although Ayleen became the youngest SS+ rank yer in the human domain, she wasn''t showing arrogance in any way, unlike some yers who managed toe by something that made them strong, then caused them to be arrogant. ''But, it''s probably because we''re minors except for Azalea.'' "...Oppa, did we do the right thing...?" Even though Ayleen left, Russell felt his heart wouldn''t calm down at any second due to what had just transpired. He didn''t expect Artorious Hall, Samantha''s father to just randomly ordered Ayleen to ask them if they knew something about the appearance of the Close Mystery Tower based on their experience in the first appearance of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon. ''Did he try to pull us out of nowhere?'' Ayleen didn''t tell them what Artorious Hall tried to do, but, Russell, as the author of his unpublished novel, knew about Artorious'' Skills. ''If that''s the case... F*ck! When did that happen?!'' He looked at hispanions with concern because if Artorious Hall attempted to pull them from wherever they were across the Orion Continent, it wouldn''t work if his skill was cast the moment they visited Amery in the Chaos Training Grounds. ''Oh, f*c-'' Without even a few minutes had passed since Ayleen left them, a crack as though the space was made of ss appeared. Then, in that split second, Russell, Freya, Amelie, and Azalea were sucked into the ss-like space as though they weren''t in the Disciplinary Committee Office in the first ce. ... Obelisk City, Hall''s Family Residence, a kilometer away from the Obelisk Academy. Artorious Hall, standing behind a massive tree in their residence''s wide backyard recalled the System''s message he received when he was in the meeting just after the World Announcement urred. [The target you are forcibly summoning is out of reach.] The System notified him the same thing four times for four people; exactly the number of the students who discovered the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon. He maintained his seriousness while looking at the sky that just entered its night as the Sun set itself through the horizon. After pondering for some time, he received a message from one of his associates in the Obelisk Organization, cutting off his ethereal thoughts as though he was seeing the world from a very different perspective. ... Received: 6:34 P.M. - "Sir Artorious, I talked to the students who discovered the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon. Their statements were the same as before, nothing changed even though they had lied about one thing. They also said that they didn''t know anything about the Tower of Growth. That''s all Sir." ... "I see..." Artorious muttered, not bothering to reply to Ayleen Mayfield, instead, an idea came to his mind. He snapped his fingers just like he did while he was in the meeting where the first opening of the Close Mystery Tower was confidentially discussed. [Activating Skill: ss Gravitation (SSS+)] [The designated targets can be pulled through except for one.] Without hesitation and without showing any emotions, he proceeded in activating his skill. At that moment, four oblong mirrors floating vertically came into his view. Then these mirrors contained the view of each individual in question. The Skill: ss Gravitation could pull any individual from 10,000 km. as long as Artorious ingrained in his mind the name of the targets. Without wasting any second, under his cue, the four mirrors broke and the four individuals manifested themselves in reality; they were frozen in fear by the sudden summoning as they fell to the ground in front of him. But, with the unknown that had happened, he didn''ty back as he proceeded to do what was necessary. [Activating Skill: Eye of the Mirror Reality (SSS+)] ... ''F*ck! How did ite to this?!'' Russell felt like he underestimated Artorious Hall''s thought process. Although he''s one of the characters he had written about in his failed, unpublished novel; due to the existence of Untouched or Unknown Elements, he never thought that maybe the behavioral patterns would somehow change. Based on what he remembered, Artorious Hall became a cold man after the disappearance of his wife, Samantha''s mother, which was still nowhere to be found even to this day. With that, he neglected his daughter as it reminded him of his wife who mysteriously disappeared. Although he somehow loved his daughter, he barely made time for her and had used his position and "work" as an excuse; which caused Samantha to be alone most of the time. ''Sh*t!'' Russell cursed in his mind; for some time now, the Goddess of Night had barely shown "Her" presence even through the simple System notifications. He knew that he couldn''t just trust his safety and hispanions with "Her", but at this moment, he deeply hope inwardly that "She" would intervene in any way possible. Even though Artorious Hall wasn''t releasing the pressure befitting of the SSS+ rank yer, the current Strongest yer in the human domain, Russell felt like his heart was jumping abnormally just from the gaze of the man in front of him. Azalea ¡ª not Amery ¡ª who had no idea what just happened didn''t dare to look at the man standing in front of him as though she was being crushed by something immaterial, while Freya and Amelie had cold sweat on their faces as chills ran down their spine; they couldn''t think straight as though their thoughts solidified like a ss, unable to flow. "What are you?" Artorious Hall''s deep, dignified voice reverberated on thewn of his residence, far from the busy maids and security guards. Even though they somehow see him, they wouldn''t dare to open their mouths about anything happening at this moment. "S-sir Artorious...? Is that you...? W-why are we here?" Russell yed the ignorance card as he stood up from the ground and took a look at the man in front of him. Artorious'' gray eyes felt like dull, broken ss, devoid of emotions, he has grayish-white hair and a well-built body. His height was at least more than 184 cm. "I-I don''t understand, Sir, w-why are we here?" "S-sir Hall, c-can you exin to us the situation?" Azalea spoke after Russell, slightlyposing herself, but still didn''t dare to look in the eyes of the man in front of her as she bowed her head, seemingly having a staring contest on the greeny ground due to some grass. ... Without minding the words of the students, Artorious spoke something unrted. "Do you know the nature of everything? " From the simple trees that sprouted from the ground; "Music that prevailed after the Emergence; "Any beings in this world, material or immaterial and; "Humans like us... in my eyes that reflect the nature of reality, are co¨C..." After a few seconds, Russell and the others had a confused look on their faces due to the sudden stop of words from Artorious'' mouth. Then, at that moment, Artorious slowly reached out to his gray eyes as his vision became dark. ... Russell''s heart thumped, while Freya and the others didn''t know what to do. ''What just happened? F*ck! He cursed in his mind, as he felt like everything that was happening before the opening of the Tower of Growth seemed very astray, to the point that even if he made some anticipation, it would be out of it. "Sir Hall! Are you alright?" Azalea approached Artorious Hall who fell to his knees, covering his gray eyes as though he became blind. Without answering Azalea''s question, he snapped his fingers, sending her and the others back from where they were. ... After a few minutes, Artorious stood up, leaned on the massive tree, then read the System messages, but this time, it appeared with the red font color. [The Constetion, ''One Who Oveps with Reality'' is in great danger!] [Your Authority: ss Reality is in jeopardy!] These two above System messages were from before his gray eyes went dark. [The Constetion, ''One Who Oveps with Reality'' has asked you to let go of the yers you have forcibly summoned!] [Your Authority: ss Reality has been salvaged.] Through his instinct that something went wrong, Artorious did the order of his Constetion before he even read the third System''s message. Since his wife''s disappearance, he hated the ''unknowns'', and if he encountered one, he tends to solve them as quickly as possible so that what happened with his wife wouldn''t happen to others in any form or shape. That''s why when the four students ¡ª except for Azalea ¡ª discovered the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon, but lied about "how" and "when" they stumbled upon it, he didn''t hesitate to carry out his duty, especially it concerned the first encounter with an unknown dungeon. But, at this moment, it seemed like he had inadvertently pried into something he shouldn''t. ... In the Mirror Dimension, the World of Reality that''s made of ss. A non-human being with the same physical features as a human apart from the 12 pupil-less transparent-like eyes this being has, and the absence of the human reproductive system; spoke to a ck-veiled woman that suddenly appeared in his world. "Who are you?" Although he didn''t have the biology of a man, his voice was deep and contained the power of the Lumen Heart; the heart that each Constetion has. The ck-veiled woman, holding a spade-shaped fan in her right hand that''s covering the view of her mouth, replied nonchntly. "Ask your champion to let go of the yers he forcefully summoned." "Why would I do that?" The Constetion of this world replied in a still deep voice that echoed everywhere, even though this world of ss that reflects everything was so massive than the Post-Emergence Earth. "I see... ignorant one." As soon as the woman in the ck veil muttered these words, the world that''s made of ss was gradually consumed by the dark as the reflection of everything seemed to turn opaque. "You dare invade my world!?" The 12-eyed Constetion with a transparent body shouted lividly. In that split second, the world that''s made of ss was restructuring itself, recing the structures that already turned dark due to the ck-veiled woman; then, the ss that were broken flew fast toward the ck-veiled woman. In response to what the 12-eyed Constetion did, the ck-veiled woman scoffed before she waved the spade-shaped fan in her hand. "What a lonely world." At that moment, a dark cross with spade-shaped tips came out of nowhere and pierced the world of ss, causing the entire Mirror Dimension to tremble. This dark cross was so gigantic, more massive than the Sun that humans knew. It went through the already broken parts of this world that were aimed at her, to the other side of this world, along with a dark shockwave that enveloped his world, turning his world into total darkness, causing deep shock and fright to the 12-eyed Constetion. "W-what...?" The being muttered in disbelief. Even though the Mirror Dimension or his world was massive, he''s living alone, but never felt lonely. He saw through his eyes the nature of everything that was happening in different worlds; happiness, sadness, betrayal, schism, death, and many more. But, with the very sudden attack just because of four puny mortals, he saw his world in darkness, which caused him to feel the loneliness that he had only observed from countless mortal worlds, for the first time since he came into existence. "S-stop! I''llmand my champion to release them! Please, stop destroying my world." The ck-veiled woman smiled before she disappeared. She didn''t wait to see the oue as she believed that the 12-eyed Constetion wouldn''t dare to stab her in the back by making an opposite order. In a very short time, the Mirror Dimension recovered itself through his power, but during that time, he never expected how lonely it was to be left alone in the dark. "What a lonely world, indeed." Chapter 121 The End Of Something (5) ''...'' Russell ¡ª who was slumped down on the Disciplinary Committee Office''s floor ¡ª stared at the lightbulbs hanging on the ceiling, his brain seemed to stop functioning with the circumstances that had just happened. Although he was a shut-in in his previous life, causing him to be an introverted person, which also impact him to develop Social Anxiety, which even in this life haunted him; he''s not the kind of person whose thoughts would ckout. Even when he met the Goddess of Night for the first time, he was still able to think about something even only about his impending death, but as of this moment, he was just staring into the air as though the time had passed for a very long time. "Russell!" Amelie ¡ª who was the second to recover from her stupor ¡ª approached Russell. "H-huh?" "Hey, are you okay?" Amelie shook Russell''s shoulder, causing him to be sent back into reality. "Y-yeah. It''s just..." Russell tried to put words into his mouth, but to no avail; his mind, which experienced total nkness had been instantly flooded by thoughts this time around. Amelie looked at Freya ¡ª thest one who had recovered from what just happened. "Oppa, Oppa!" "Ouch!" Freya weakly punched her older brother on his side, prompting him to be jolted awake. "...S-sorry. I never expected that would happen." Russell told the two, and Azalea, who was the first to recover herposure. "...I think we''re good for now." Amelie interjected, causing Russell, Freya, and Azalea to look at her, waiting for her next words. Russell pondered about the telepathic message that Amelie had sent. Even though it''s been more than a month since their excursion to the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon, and how they received help from Azalea by delivering to them the Junain''s nket artifact through the Thorn of Rose service, just to be used as an excuse, Russell never rified to hispanions about what kind of rtionship he has with the President of the Disciplinary Committee. <...No, if you have any idea what happened, don''t speak in front of her.> His rtionship with Azalea was that of a business partner. Nothing more, nothing less. Although he knew that he gained her trust by giving her the precise locations of the Four Seeds of Direction she badly needed, and had her verify its authenticity with at least one of the locations, if somehow things turned into a mess just like what had transpired, any information might be used against them just for her interest. ''I will never trust someone who had sacrificed her own parents to her Constetion.'' He thought poignantly as he looked at Amelie who nodded at her. He''s the author of an unpublished novel, so he knew the background of Azalea, but he was pped to reality by the sudden behavior of Artorious Hall, so it would only be right to be cautious of the characters he had written about, and learn not to expect them to act the way their personality was written. ... The three of them sat on the long couch, while Azalea sat on the seat behind her office desk. After some time, as the three took some rest first, Amelie spoke seriously. "I don''t know why Sir Artorious forcibly called us, or how... But, I suggest we shouldn''t tell anyone about it" Azalea agreed instantly, although she was still confused about why Sir Artorious summoned them. It would only be the right thing to do as it would garner too much attention when other people came to know about it. ... After an unknown period of time, Freya and Amelie came to Russell''s dormitory room; they only asked Maya to bring them dinner. "Thank you, Maya." Russell thanked her before Maya left and went to her lodging. A few seconds after Maya walked out of the door, Amelie spoke first, breaking the silence between the three. "Russell, Freya... I believe we''re still in trouble. "I received notification from the System about my Constetion, she invaded the world of Sir Artorious'' Constetion and almost destroyed that world." Russell''s mouth agape upon hearing Amelie''s words. He never expected that it would be her Constetion who would intervene. The [Lady of Shaded Spade] was still a mystery for him, although the Goddess of Night had referred to her as "Her" subordinate. ''I wonder why the Goddess of Night isn''t showing "Her" presence for some time now.'' It''s been a while since he received a System message that said about Goddess'' interaction with him. "But..." Amelie paused for a moment, causing Russell''s thoughts to break. "My Constetion notified me that she''s only able to intervene one time, and there won''t be the next time. Though, she didn''t say why." She continued with a serious tone, causing Russell to fall into deep thought. ''I know this world is simr to my unpublished novel, so it means that there will be many things that are still manifested and didn''t change regardless of the existence of the Untouched and Unknown Elements... ''Hmm... her Constetion was only able to intervene one time... does it mean she was epassed by the [Post-Fourth Starfall Treaty]? ''...No, that may not be the case, because if that treaty applied to her, she wouldn''t attack the Mirror Dimension in the first ce. ''...F*ck... I can''t wrap my head around it.'' He had written his unpublished novel in the span of three years; he wouldn''t remember everything just by wrapping his head around it. Although there was information in his head that haven''t happened or been explored yet, some of the things only surfaced in his mind when it was only a matter of time before it happened. "...Russell, do you think Sir Artorious will send other people to go after us? Do you have a n in mind?" Amelie said, cutting off Russell''s thoughts, while Freya seemed to be lost in her own world. "I''m sorry. It''s because of me." Russell''s ¡ª who stood up from the couch ¡ª words caused Amelie to prick up her brows, while Freya reacted as she looked at her older brother with cold eyes. Without waiting for them to ask him in confusion, he continued to speak his thoughts. "It''s because of me... "If I didn''t forget the Time Difference between the Earth and the Nether Realm... "All of this wouldn''t¡ª" Pak-! Bam-! Russell didn''t manage to finish his words as he reflexively reached for his right cheek as though it turned numb, while he was slumped on the floor, with the broken table, scattered untouched cold meal. Amelie wasn''t able to react to Freya as she looked between the two alternatively. Freya stood up from her seat with her clenched right fist just after she punched for real his older brother. She then spoke, forcing her tears not to flow down from her deep blue eyes that seemed to have their reflection turned deeper. "All of this wouldn''t happen if you didn''t forget the Time Difference between Earth and the Nether Realm?! "Then, we won''t be dered as missing students, won''t go to the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon you mysteriously knew, and won''t be here in this situation just because of the fucked up Mana Energy Flow that''s being detected by a spacecraft hovering in this fucking world''s atmosphere? "Is that what you wanted to say, Oppa?? "Pathetic! Nothing will change even if you mumble like that! "We haven''t even told our parents that we are billionaires in secret because we wanted to tell them personally after this semester... and now... we''re in this situation. What do you want to do huh!? Kill ourselves!? Then let Amelie resurrect us without our parents'' knowledge?? "Oppa... stop being pathetic... It''s not about ourselves... think of a way so that our family will be out of this fucking mess!" Freya shouted both in anger and concern as she didn''t manage to contain her tears before she crouched down on the floor. Amelie fell silent. She knew that it was that one mistake about the Mana Energy Flow of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon that became the root of this situation. The Micro-Strayed Dungeon''s Mana Energy Flow was in ce if it''s not brought out somewhere just like Russell did. And when it was essed, the Micro-Strayed Dungeon disappeared along with its Mana Energy Flow, but they only told the authorities that they identally stumbled upon it, sucked them in, and cleared it, but it happened at a different time; not when the observers in the Obelisk Space Station firstly discovered the first disappearance of the Micro-Strayed Dungeon''s Mana Energy Flow. The moment Russell brought the Micro-Strayed Dungeon far away from its original ce, causing its Mana Energy Flow to disappear from its initial location for some time, it''s the point when the mistake was truly made. ... ''...She''s right. It already happened... and there''s no point to this if Artorious sent someone to investigate our family...'' Their n about making themselves dead, and letting Amelie resurrect them was for the future; when a certain Tower opens. But regarding the situation with Artorious, a human at that, it would be more difficult to avoid, especially since they were students of the Obelisk Academy, it''s natural that their parents'' information would be known. ''...If we tried to spread a rumor about the Rank 1 yer kidnapping four students... it will just be a futile attempt because of his reputation. ''There''s no one who would believe such a rumor about humanity''s strongest, kidnapping some puny kids like us.'' ''That may be the only way... it''s very early, but... I guess there''s no other choice that it came to this.'' ... p-! p-! He pped his cheeks, stood up, walked towards Freya, his younger sister, and then hugged her gently. "Sorry for the unsightly me, and for making you cry. Let''se up with a way so that Mom and Dad will not be swept up with this, okay?" Knock-! Knock-! The siblings and the silent Amelie felt confused by the knock on Russell''s dormitory room at this time of the night. He released his hug, walked towards the door, then opened it. "...Ms. Ayleen...?" Amelie and Freya with still reddish eyes due to her burst of emotion looked at each other. "...Can Ie in...? Sir Artorious wanted to deliver a message..." Russell felt that nothing was amiss, even though he was confused. After pondering a little, he let Ms. Ayleen, their professor in the Basic Mana Theory,e in. ... "Russell, Freya, and Amelie... Sir Artorious wanted to apologize to the three of you, and Azalea for what he did. "He said that he hopes for the three of you to remain in the academy." Ayleen was told about what had transpired and felt like her mind was about to explode to the sudden situation. ''Just what''s happened to Sir Artorious...? This is tiring. If the other heads of the organization came to know what he did, his position will be in jeopardy, especially with some lurking snakes.'' The reason why there''s a yer with a profession rted to Psychology was to monitor the inner thoughts and irrelevant emotions during the meeting in the Conference Room; through that, other yers would know if someone was secretly feeling animosity towards them. ... Russell listened to Ms. Ayleen''s words as some thoughts surfaced in his mind. ''Did he want some connection with us...? He probably thought that we know where his wife is... ''Well, I know, but I''d be stupid if I blurt it out. ''I''ll probably get tortured until I spit such information. Russell asked for their opinion. After a few seconds, Freya spoke through telepathy. <...Oppa, I think it will be better to im that we don''t know anything, and if it''s possible, do not let our parents know of the issue as we only wanted peace for them. I mean, it will be good if it''s a condition that can be set for him under a Soul Contract.> Amelie spoke in confusion, but Freya corrected her. Russell voiced his concern, but when he thought about it... It''s one of the most viable solutions at this moment. ''The only problem is not getting killed instantly the moment we say what a Soul Contract is.'' Freya fell into deep thought as she heard what her older brother said. Russell processed about Freya said. ''His unexpected behavior is and was the problem.'' ... After an unknown period of time of discussion in their heads, it was Freya who spoke to Ms. Ayleen. "Ms. Ayleen... we experienced some unexpected harassment. "We didn''t know why, but we are just minors, you know, and had no idea why we got dragged into such a situation. "You see... I was in tears before you came to visit us, and tell that he was sorry, but... we had already discussed what''s better for us. "...I''m sorry, Ms. Ayleen, but we have decided to leave the Obelisk Academy." A bombshell came out of Freya''s mouth. Chapter 122 The End Of Something (6) "Russell, what do you mean by dropping out?!" A worried and confused voice of a woman, Melina Moon; Russell and Freya''s mother sounded through a call via his smartwatch. After they had decided to drop out, they were called to the Teacher''s Faculty Building, specifically, to the office of the Vice-Chancellor. Their parents were on their way to the Obelisk Academy due to the sudden news they never expected. "Mom, it''s hard to tell you what happened, but... we suffered from something, and... don''t be surprised, we have good news, too." He couldn''t just straight-out say that they were forcibly pulled out or kidnapped by the number 1 yer. ''Although some unrted parts of the original story are this f*cked up, I can''t let this go public as it might shake Artorious'' authority as the main head of the Obelisk Organization.'' "Oppa... I don''t know what''s the right thing to do because what''s next for us is unknown." Freya said poignantly as she sat beside him with Amelie. "When I think about it, there''s no absolute right thing about what''s about to do, it''s just we are deciding what''s better for us and our parents." Russell replied with a somewhat monotonous tone; Amelie, who heard him, interjected. "I like that the two of you are doing this for your parents... when I think about it, my parents right now probably forgot about me. "Well, it''s not like I have sympathy for them who sold me out for a few hundred thousand Obel, you know. "It''s not the blood that''s strong, but rather the deep bond between people that''s more than just a biology." When Russell recalled that Amelie was just a 16-year-old woman, but was speaking like that, he felt like he has a vibe mentally considering his mental age. Knock-! Knock-! Click-! Creaked-! The Vice-Chancellor, Dexter Rainfall, who went out for some time came back with someone behind him. As he opened the door, Russell, Freya, and Amelie heard some unusual noises outside; there were sses as it was early morning. They didn''t bother their parents to be called at night and to go to the academy, so they waited until the next day to process their dropout forms. But, with the issue regarding it; it''ll be troublesome to talk about it with their parents, especially through a call. They might see their parents screaming in public about what happened if they tell them beforehand. The people behind the Vice-Chancellor were Ms. Ayleen Mayfield and... Artorious Hall, who came personally. Amelie spoke via telepathy through their Chaos Connection; Freya also heard what Amelie said. Freya said, using the same means ofmunication they have. Although Artorious Hall wasn''t releasing his aura because of his extraordinary Mana Control, his presence was just overwhelming as Freya felt like she was having Post-Traumatic Stressed Disorder (PTSD) by getting forcefully summoned yesterday. Artorious looked at them with his usual emotionless grayish, ss-like eyes. Without apologizing to them personally, he said with a monotonous tone. "...What do you want?" ''This f*cking bastard. I feel like he''s worst than what I''ve written. ''I know we are just minors and puny in your eyes, but your coldness seems to have no bounds. ''Well, you are like that with your own daughter, what''s more with students you didn''t even know?'' Russellmpooned inwardly as he was seething in anger, and wanted to blurt out his thoughts, but doing so would probably get him killed by this merciless man. ... ''For some reason, these students don''t look normal... They probably talked with each other through telepathy even for a few seconds when I talked to themst night.'' Ayleen Mayfield ¡ª who was standing by the side ¡ª thought as she recalled what happenedst night when she went to Russell''s dormitory room after checking Freya and Amelie''s dormitory rooms first, finding them not. ''Even so, what Sir Artorious did was wrong. He could have talked to them personally without using such means. ''Sigh... there''s no excuse for what he did. Just how did he even make some groundless connection between the discoverers of the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon and the Tower of Growth? It''s ridiculous.'' No matter how she thought about it, Ayleen thought that it was just nonsense that Artorious Hall just suspected the students, having some knowledge about the soon-to-be-opened first Close Mystery Tower, just because they first discovered a dungeon that couldn''t be seen with naked eyes. "S-sir Artorious... w-why did you do t-that to us...? and w-why you c-cant seem to let us out of the academy when we decided to drop out...?" Ayleen looked at the student with pink hair and ruby eyes who was about to shed tears. It was Amelie. ... ''Just how the hell can Amelie do that without breaking her character?'' He knew that Amelie experienced the worst at her young age; being sold to the Thorn of Rose; forced to produce Dark Tears that killed many, and forced to kill a few people through assassination. ''But, even so, she''s in front of Artorious...'' "...Do you want me to apologize?" Russell''s thought was cut off by the cold voice of Artorious Hall. ''My mind is still a mess when I realized that he might have decided to forcibly pull us out of nowhere just because of two unrted incidents.'' He inwardly said as he thought of what Ayleen Mayfield just thought; about the nonsensical, seemed nonexistent reasons why Artorious acted in that way. "...We want to drop out." Russell knew the ability that Artorious Hall used against them. ''It may have thousands of kilometers of range, but it can be countered somehow.'' If Artorious Hall''s Skill: ss Gravitation (SSS+) could just pull out anyone whenever he wanted, it would be considered a very broken skill as he could just pull the Obelisk Organization''s enemies one by one and gang up on them on the spot. Russell followed in Amelie''s stead as Artorious just fell silent with Amelie''s question and acting. "And... if we want something, w-we''d like to have many witnesses, so our safety will be assured. "If we speak a-about thepensation, we''re not going to leave the academy." ''Honestly, I don''t feel like caring anymore about those major characters, they have their own lives, while I and mypanions have ours, too. ''I know many things have already astray from what I know, but it doesn''t mean that what I know won''t transpire in the future. ''The cause might be different, but the oue might still be the same.'' He thought poignantly as he felt like being indifferent about the future of those major characters. "Witnesses... we already have here." Artorious said sinctly, but Russell argued. "N-no, we want Chancellor Alexander." Russell was stuttering, but he just was acting like a minor student while facing the Rank 1 yer. ''If we showposure, we''d be under more suspicions. I don''t want to do this sh*t acting, but Amelie was nailing it. Though Freya''s emotions are real.'' At that moment, Ayleen and Vice-Chancellor Dexter looked at each other. "Hmm... Sorry to interrupt, but Chancellor Alexander isn''t avable at the moment. "It''ll be fine with us, so you can proceed with whatpensation you wanted." The Vice-Chancellor said politely; he was briefed by Ayleen about what happened under Artorious'' permission, causing him to have a bewildered expression. "S-sir, when our parents arrive here, w-we will have no choice, but to exin w-what happened to us. "W-we don''t want them to be involved in this issue, b-but we have no choice... we c-cant just go home and tell t-them we''d stop attending the academy out of nowhere." ''...F*ck, why didn''t I think of that...?'' An unrted thought jolted him as he replied to Vice-Chancellor''s words. ... [Activating Skill: Eye of Night (EX)] [Target''s Name: Artorious Hall] [Peeking to Artorious Hall''s Hidden Nature and Current Emotional State.] [Current Emotional State: Cold.] [Hidden Nature: Obsessed with the unknowns.] [You have discovered the Hidden Nature of Artorious Hall.] [Your Perception increases...] ... ''Obsessed... this father and daughter have a very simr word that can be attached to them. ''Although Samantha was somewhat possessive with genuine people, it''s like the lighter version of Artorious.'' He thought before Vice-Chancellor Dexter cut off his thoughts. "I''ll try to ask the Chancellor first if he''s avable, then maybe we can resolve this before your parents arrive. "You see, it will be troublesome for the Obelisk Organization and the Obelisk Academy when the details of the issue or even a rumor spread. "Please, as a Vice-Chancellor of the academy, I request of you not to leave the academy, resolve this properly, and sadly... it''lle out of my mouth, but can we make up a story about your drop out issue that we should tell your parents when they arrive?" He said as he tap off his smartwatch, calling the Chancellor. After the call was answered, he looked at Artorious who was standing, silently asking for his permission to speak about the problem. ... After some time, surprisingly, the Chancellor, Alexander Akalchelt arrived at the office of the Vice-Chancellor. ''Just as I thought... these two are distant from each other... Well, if you lumped two cold emotionless bodies, they would still remain cold, and if somehow a warmth has been felt, it would probably be a spark.'' Alexander was at SSS rank, while Artorious was at SSS+ rank. Even though the former could be considered one of the strongest, he despised the title and barely attends any Conference meeting of the Obelisk Organization. "Young man, speak the three things you all wanted, and finish this as fast as possible." Artorious said, seemingly wanting to leave quickly because of Alexander''s presence. "T-Thank you Chancellor for bothering y-your p-precious time. "Uhmm... by the way, Sir Artorious, the first thing we want is the safety of our family, in any way they shouldn''t be involved in this matter. "The second thing..." Russell looked at Amelie and nodded at her. "W-we want to receive a yer License..." The reason for this was simple; more freedom when doing some outside business. One of the reasons, Constetions aside, that yers wanted to graduate from the Obelisk Academy was to have a yer License quickly and to be offered by various Guilds easily. "Consider it done." ''He didn''t even hesitate, huh? With Obelisk Organization''s power, it''s an easy task.'' Russell thought before he nced again at Amelie, then the both of them nced at Freya. "Sir Artorious... I''ll be frank, you traumatize me with what you did, that''s why we wanted our family out of this in any way possible... So, in line with our first request... we want an assurance that you''ll honor it." Artorious revealed a faint, cold smile upon hearing such words from a 15-year-old girl who was bing mature day by day. Ayleen, Dexter, and Alexander looked at Artorious, they seemed to know the necessary thing about such an assurance. "I see... Young girl, you want this to be in Mana Contract." Artorious looked at Ayleen, prompting her to take out a Mana Contract in her Dimensional Inventory; she just happened to have a pile of it. "...Sir Artorious... I''d like to apologize first, but is it possible to make the assurance, not with Mana Contract?" The adults wore a look of confusion with Freya''s words. "...What do you mean?" Freya looked at her older brother and Amelie before she took a deep breath and took out something from her Dimensional Inventory. It''s a dark-colored scroll that''s exuding a dark aura. Although it came from the Nether Realm, with books that were given to her by the Ruler of Death, she learned that it''s possible to bring out a Soul Contract on Earth. "Sir Artorious, if you really wanted to honor your words about the safety of my family... you will agree with this, right? "It''s called a Soul Contract, just in case you are wondering." Chapter 123 The End Of Something (7) ''Soul Contract?'' Ayleen Mayfield ¡ª who was still standing from the side ¡ª fell into curiosity as she heard the unusual words that came out of a 15-year-old girl. Various reactions were painted on each of everyone''s faces; Vice-Chancellor Dexter Rainfall constricted his eyes as looked at the young girl with confusion with a mix of cautiousness; Chancellor Alexander had a smirk on his face, finding the situation interesting, especially with Artorious involved, and Artorious himself remained cold, but curiosity ¡ª just like how Ayleen was feeling ¡ª fell on him. "Basically, if Sir Artorious breaks anything that''s about to be written in the Soul Contract, he''ll die." Russell interjected and answered in Freya''s stead. Although running away from someone with an average overall stats of at least 5 digits was more than impossible, they could only try by trusting their Trait: Nihility. It would be a lie if Russell wasn''t feeling nervous at this moment. The dropout decision that they told Ayleen was merely a facade to get Artorious'' attention in some way, but their true goal was to make him sign a Soul Contract, which would make their parents certainly safe based on their prepared conditions. The atmosphere turned serious upon hearing Russell''s words because what these renowned people knew, even though it''s been more than 40 years since the Emergence, was only a Mana Contract that''s considered a Misceneous item. "Artorious, do you think this is very interesting? A young girl has ess to something we didn''t know anything about. "When I heard from Dexter about the problem, it seemed like your previous actions didn''t make any sense at all, kidnapping kids. I thought you have gone mad. "But with what''s presented to you or us right now, these kids just indirectly told us, that even though they keep withholding information about how they truly stumbled on the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon, they''re not ordinary in some ways." Chancellor Alexander said thoughtfully while considering in his mind the possibilities of grooming the three students who bravely came forward for their family''s sake. ''Well, I''m just grateful that all of you are not using a Status Appraisal Skill right now as you deemed our status as not worth looking into.'' Russellmpooned inwardly. Apart from the seemingly friendly rivalry between Alexander and Artorious; another reason they requested Alexander''s presence was to show him their potential, not because he''s interested in them, but rather, he''d be interested in the knowledge that Russell, Freya, and Amelie knew, but wasn''t telling. Artorious, standing highly in front of puny students, fell into deep thought. Then, Alexander spoke again. "Artorious, the first opening of a Close Mystery Tower might have affected you in some ways in discovering what happened a few years ago. The times are indeed changing, but do you think forcing these students to spill something they might not know, and getting them to overthink about their family''s safety based on the first thing they wanted aspensation would suffice in discovering the truth behind the dis¡ª" "Stop." Artorious raised his right hand, telling Alexander to stop before he looked coldly at the three students who were standing in front of a long couch, waiting for his decision. "Where did you get that something called Soul Contract?" He asked with an unrelenting cold emotion; he wanted to know some things before he decides on something. ... Russell, Freya, and Amelie looked and then nodded at each other upon hearing the well-built man''s words. "Sir Artorious, about that... we apologize, but we can''t tell you. We decided that it would be a part of the conditions in the Soul Contract if you agree to sign this with us. "By the way, we will tell you our conditions first." Russell looked at his younger sister, who then nodded at him. On Freya''s will, the Soul Contract flew midair, a dark aura emanated from it, and left some dark aura traces in the air as it hovered, which continually dissipated. Although this type of thing was normal especially when a person was a high-rank yer, it''s not something that one could normally see in a first-year student except the TOP students of A-1 ss. "First, you will promise that any form of harm through any means; personally or by other people you can mobilize; will not be tolerated against me and my older brother''s family, as well as with our connections like Amelie''s Personal Attendant and her family. "Second, you will grant us a yer License without us taking an Obelisk yer Association Licensure Exam, and will permit us to leave the academy premises whenever we want. "Third, we are not required or shall be forced to answer any questions you or any Obelisk Organization''s personnel have. You will also leave us on our own business." At that moment, after the somewhatposed Freya said the conditions that she, Russell, and Amelie had talked aboutst night after Ayleen left them, the Soul Contract that was floating in midair reacted and automatically write the revised version of the words that Freya had said. Artorious gray, ss-like eyes constricted, while the other had different reactions. Although the Mana Contract had the same way of the process, they felt that it was really different as their doubt about the Soul Contract''s validity seemed to gradually vanish. "By the way, Sir, it will be unfair for you as it should be an equivalent exchange. Just like a Mana Contract, you can give conditions that we need to abide by, as long as it won''t contradict the conditions we gave beforehand." Russell spoke, waiting for Artorious'' response. ''Please, f*cking agree with the conditions.'' Due to the unexpected behavior that Artorious had previously shown, Russell felt like this man could switch off anytime soon, especially with his echoing silence. ... After some time, Artorious said the conditions, which somehow came as a shock for Russell and his Chaos Companions. ''Hmm... So, it''ll depend on circumstances, huh.'' Russell thought as the Soul Contract itself had finished transcribing the conditions, which everyone in the Vice-Chancellor''s Office had silently read. ... Soul Contract: ¨C Party A: Freya Moon, Russell Moon, Amelie Rose Merveil, Amery Blight Party A''s Conditions: 1. Any form of harm from Party B and his "formal connections" will not be tolerated against Party A''s Freya and Russell Moon''s family; Amelie''s Personal Attendant and her family, and Amery Blight''s orphanage connections. 2. yer License will be granted to Party A by Party B within a week after this contract is signed. 3. Party A will not be required and shall not be forced to answer any questions Party B has, and Party B and his "formal connections" will let Party A do their own business. ¨C Party B: Artorious Hall Party B''s Conditions: 1. Party B or his "formal connections" will be granted the right to ask any "unnatural" questions to Party A, but only once a month. 2. Any businesses of Party A must not bring harm in any form or way to the Obelisk Organization unless Party A is first provoked. 3. Party A will not spread anything both in private or public about what had transpired, and Party A will take care of Azalea Vermillion about the issue. ... [Proceed with the filled Soul Contract?] The System asked Freya, and after confirming everything with her older brother and Amelie, she proceeded with the process. "Proceed." With her words, the Soul Contract formed some dark Magic Circles before they vanished midair, and evaporated. Then, at that moment, Illusory Shadow Scythes hung on Freya, Russell, Amelie, and Artorious necks, prompting Ayleen, Alexander, and Dexter to be on guard. "It''s okay, it''s part of the process." Russell assured them, though it was only normal that they would have a look of distrust. As the Illusory Shadow Scythes gradually dissipated, the System rang in Party A''s and Party B''s ears. Ding-! [The Soul Contract has been sessfully made.] [The Party that will not abide by the aforementioned conditions will die and suffer from ''True Death''.] ... Artorious'' gray, ss-like eyes slightly made a reaction upon reading the System''s notification. As an SSS+ rank yer who went to the mysterious Trial of the Stars, he knew what True Death means. His unusually quiet reaction garnered the attention of his connections. "Sir Artorious, is it done now?" Ayleen asked, quite stupefied about seeing something she didn''t know anything about. He then nodded in response before he walked towards the three students he considered a mystery or unknown in some ways. "That''s an easy thing to do, right? Artorious Hall." Alexander said with a smile that somewhat caused repulsion to Artorious. Without minding the Chancellor of the Obelisk Academy, Artorious looked at the three students who felt relieved as they sat on the long couch. "Condition one, I''ll have the right to ask a question once a month whether or not you''ll answer it. "But, I''ll ask the question this time around. "Is she alive?" ... The straight-to-the-point question caused the other people inside the office to fall silent; Ayleen, Vice Chancellor Dexter, and Chancellor Alexander looked at Artorious with somewhat serious expressions, before their gazes turned to the three students who looked at each other. ''They''remunicating again through telepathy.'' Ayleen guessed as she noticed their bodynguage, as well as the look on their faces. ''Although they are mysterious in some ways, I doubt they know anything about what happened at least 10 years ago.'' "She is." ''H-huh...? W-what...?!'' She heard one of the students speak, it was the man with deep blue eyes that were sitting on the left side of the long couch. ''No, he''s bluffing! He''s only 16 years old, how can he answer with a straight face about something that happened a long time ago??'' She nced at Artorious, observing his reaction because he was very sensitive when it was something about his wife. "I see..." Artorious spoke, but this time, his emotions seemed to contain a little warmth, and without any words, he disappeared through a mirror-like portal that he created with his Authority: ss Reality. ... After ten to fifteen minutes, all that remained in the Vice Chancellor''s Office were the Vice Chancellor himself, and the three students. Knock-! Knock-! They heard a knock, causing Russell and Freya to be on edge. "Come in." The voice of the Vice Chancellor sounded, and then the door opened, revealing Russell and Freya''s parents; Melina Moon and Arche Moon. "Russell, what happened?!" Without properly greeting the Vice Chancellor, Melina, their mother, spoke to her son. "Ah... A-about that. W-we are rich!" Their parents looked at each other forming a confused expressions. But, Russell and Freya took the time to exin everything in detail; starting from when they came back from their missing person status; getting the rights to the Micro-Strayed Dungeon due to a certain existingw, and getting offered by Emmanuel Lyncoster to buy the rights of the dungeon; then finally closing the transaction. "I-is it real?! W-why didn''t you tell us before?? And what''s with something you said that you suffered, huh?" Melina couldn''t process everything as she felt overwhelmed. "Ah... Mom, it''s actually Freya who suffered from anxiety as she wanted to tell you badly but can''t find the right time. We''re actually nning to tell you during the semestral break, but Freya can''t help it, you know. "So, we asked for Vice-Chancellor''s advice on what should we do... and he then suggested that we pull a prank on you that we''ll be dropping out." Russell felt the death stare of his younger sister who was standing from his side. ''Well, at least the Vice-Chancellor agreed to it. Sigh...'' "By the way, Mom... Dad... we''re rich." Tap. Tap. After Russell and Freya tapped on their respective smartwatch, the notification sounded on their parents'' respective smartwatches. "4-400... "Mom!" Their mother fainted upon seeing the staggering amount of money that she received in her bank ount. ... Hours quickly flew by as the seemingly unusually long day ended with the Sun swallowed through the horizon. "Oppa, for one weak, I and Amelie will crash in your dorm, so sleep on the floor. Okay? "And how dare you tell Mom that I''m suffering from anxiety by not telling her about the money?" Freya wasn''t furious like when she punched her older brother, but rather, she was just being cheeky and wanted to get back to him for saying such a thing. "Well, ain''t you suffering from Artorious? Well, we all are." Russell rebutted, Amelie then chuckled before she interjected. "It''s unfortunate we got rejected with the condition of leaving the academy premises whenever we wanted, but I guess it''ll be fine with just the yer License." "Oppa... Amelie... with what Sir... No, just Artorious did... I came to hate him, I never expected that the number 1 yer will be that kind of person. "So... I''ll never regret what I did." Freya said firmly as she was lying on her older brother''s bed. She then browsed again the certain System message she received upon sessfully proceeding with the Soul Contract. [Under the Ruler of Death''s watch, the Soul Contract''s conditions to abide by Party A will be nullified.] Chapter 124 The End Of Something (8) The moonlight of the bluish moon illuminated Russell''s dormitory room. It''s been past midnight, Freya and Amelie were sleeping on the bed and couch respectively, while Russell was sleeping on the floor over some mat and a pillow. Russell ¡ª who was lying on the floor with his two hands at the back of his head ¡ª looked at the ceiling of his dormitory room that''s been illuminated by the moonlight. Amidst the deafening silence of the night, various thoughts surfaced in his mind before he sat on the floor, taking out a certain in-looking purple notebook which he called the Book of Changes. After ncing at the soundly sleeping Freya and Amelie, he also took out a pen before he silently scurried towards the study desk between the bed and the long, cozy, gray couch. "There''s too much unexpected that happened." He muttered in an exhausting manner, his words seemed to echo throughout his surroundings due to the pervading silence and serenity of the night. After letting out a sigh that depicted his tiredness, not physically, but mentally, he opened the in-looking purple notebook and wrote the important changes or the circumstances that were worth taking note of. During the past month, he had written about his journey with Amelie in the Western Olympia, meeting with Maya and her strange reaction to them, raiding a Shadow Guild''s branch where they saved Maya''s parents, and encountered an element in his unpublished novel which was the one who managed to kill him. Apart from the above-mentioned circumstances, he had written about the seemingly unusual behavior of Samantha Hall; her inquiry about his hobby of reading books and if he was a writer; her confidence in the uing Tower of Growth. As Russell flipped the pages and reached that section, his facial expression twitched as he remembered what had transpired just a few hours ago. He then started to write another name. ... ¨C Number X. Artorious Hall His behavior was very unexpected, I didn''t know how he came up with the idea of pulling us with his skill just because the first Close Mystery Tower would soon open, and we discovered the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon. Although we lied about how and when we raided it, it''s not enough reason for Artorious to take interest in us, but his thought process seemed more obsessed with "unknowns" than I had anticipated. Probably... just probably... That it was because of the "lie" we made that made his interest be directed at us. ... Russel looked at his soundly sleeping younger sister before adding a new sentence below the entry for Artorious Hall. "With Freya''s profession, Death Executioner, we devised a n to take advantage of Artorious interest in us, to make him sign a Soul Contract that would not affect us because of our Trait: Chaos. It went sessfully with other benefits just as the yer License. "Then, there''s that liar, too. Chancellor Alexander knew about the Soul Contract, should I praise him for acting that way? "I also don''t know if they became stupid or what; Freya showed an unnatural item, but it seemed they never intended to question us about our Status Windows which they didn''t take time to check; because if they did, they would certainly question us about it even before the Soul Contract procedure started." He muttered slowly as he wrote the following words. After some time, he finished the entry for Artorious, and he then wrote a "certain name" that he was secretly eyeing during the past month. ... ¨C Number XX... A very dangerous element. ... Only one sentence was written under a certain name that Russell had monitored during the past month. After closing the "Book of Changes", and putting it inside his Dimensional Inventory, he looked outside the window as his deep blue eyes reflected with the moonlight. ''I wonder how''s Amery... she must be confused by System messages during the Soul Contract making, but she''ll understand.'' Russell thought inwardly, before checking his Status Window that he seldom checks. After at least three months of training at the Chaos Training Grounds, he became a C¨C rank with an average range of overall stats of 243 to 343. ''This is freaking slow.'' Hempooned inwardly; as one''s rank became higher, the harder it was to raise one''s stats just by mere training even though with the high Growth Rate. It''s one of the reasons that Russell considered the Chaos Training Grounds as a temporary training ground for raising stats because it would only be beneficial for some time. ''Nheless, it''s a great ce due to Time Difference. ''But I guess next month, raiding a Dungeon Tower is a must.'' Apart from training one''s body, the "fastest way" to raise one''s stats was to raid any kind of Dungeon Tower; Dungeon Tower, High Dungeon Tower, and Peak Dungeon Tower. It''s guaranteed to make a yer grow stronger due to the hundred percent certainty of bonus stats upon sessfully raiding it. ''I hope the Chaos Dungeons will have that kind of benefit, too.'' He poignantly said inwardly as he continued browsing his Status Window; he saw the unexplored, no, rather, the unused movements of the Swordsmanship of the Night (Zenith), and the Scythemanship of the Reaper (EX). It''s not because he hasn''t grasped some of the movements of these unreal Passive Skills during some of his training in the Chaos Training Grounds, rather, the Goddess of Night had advised him to first use them in the Chaos Dungeons, and not anywhere on Earth. Though he didn''t know why that should be the case, the Goddess of Night never gave him a proper answer. After some time, he saw his summoning skill... and was reminded of the Chaos Slime, Ceru who died in battle against the A- rank branch manager of the Shadow Guild. He asked the Goddess of Night previously about whether Ceru could be resummoned, but unfortunately, it was a negative response, along with a positive one. The negative side was that Ceru, the Chaos Slime wouldn''t be resummoned again as Russell hoped, which was unusual for a Summoner''s dead summon. The positive side was that Ceru has been resurrected in one of the Chaos Dungeons, and if somehow he got stumbled on it, and got recognized, Russell would be able to bring Ceru back. ''Then there''s that three dice, too.'' His head seemed to ache upon being reminded of something he didn''t want to be reminded of. He recalled the Dice of Chaos (Ancient) that he could use once every 15 days, but during his fewtest usage, all he received was crap Lowest to Low-Grade Consumables instead of Skillbooks by throwing "two" dice at the same time. "Sigh... I guess this is enough stress for now." Letting out a sigh, he fell asleep on the study desk as the moonlight continued to spread its serenity. ... October 15, 2062, 12:01 A.M. One day before the first Close Mystery Tower would open. It''s been at least a month since Artorious kidnapped a bunch of students due to being obsessed with getting an answer about the disappearance of his wife. During the past month, Russell took care of Azalea by making her sign a Mana Contract, although she was curious about what happened, she did what she told obediently because, in the first ce, she had no intention of spreading a rumor about Artorious'' uncalled actions. It would only strongly affect or jeopardize her secret identity and business if the issue about what happened had spread and be deeper than what it was. The rumors about Russell and Victoria, the former Student Council Secretary had started to die down, but new rumors emerged during the past month: that Victoria only did such a disgusting deed because she wanted to make Aisha Whispercrest, the Secretary of the Disciplinary Committee envy her in having a sexual life. These rumors caused Russell to almost lose his patience and to just outright murder the Student Council President, Arthur Wolfson. But with the n waiting to be implemented, Russell contained his lividness, waiting for the right time. ... The two Princesses; Rumia Flora and Elizabeth von Etherion had finished their preparation for the execution of several death row prisoners. The time and date were scheduled after the opening of the Close Mystery Tower: Tower of Growth. It would be a fitting time as they nned to get some intel first about the Tower before they attempt to raid it with the party they made prior to its opening. This time, their respective mothers had told them that they would be in pairs in execution ¡ª something that never happened since they were kids. ... Han Jiho and Anya Amasawa somewhat became unnaturally close, something that Russell didn''t expect, but it''s to the point within the eptable range of change unlike what Artorious did. He thought that these two introverts; one was initially clueless about society, and the other was clueless about how people view her, would "still" be a great partners in crime in the future. For some time, these two were honing each other''s strengths and learning from their weaknesses. Based on Russell''s memory, it was only Han Jiho''s Status Window that initially didn''t change whenpared to his unpublished novel, while the other major characters had some changes in them, especially with Samantha''s case of possessing a Stigma. He also noticed Leon''s behavior; there was that arrogant attitude that never changed that''s directed to Han Jiho, but in the past few weeks, Russell seemed to unnecessarily garner Leon''s attention. Although that''s the case, Russell noticed that Leon was somewhat silently admiring the dedication of his younger sister, Mira von Obreyon. He even thought that maybe, as an Unknown Element, Mira would die through Leon''s hands if his envy intensified towards his younger sister; if she somehow became as strong as Leon himself, if not stronger. ... During the start of the second week of October, the Midterm, written and practical exams ended, along with the less formal Ranking of Exchange that had "first" transpired during the celebration or remembrance of the 40th Emergence. The Ranking of Exchange that happened this month resulted in Mira''s two friends that were left before in the A-11 bing A-1 students, kicking out some lower-ranked students in the A-1 ss. Then, the midterms were almost ace by the A-1 ss students except for Russell, who became the epitome of the "I knew it, but I can''t exin it" kind of person, and Han Jiho, who learned many things but couldn''t process everything as his thoughts were still upied by the truth behind the Monster Stampede that urred in his secluded vige: Sanctus Sris, killing his entire family. Apart from the written exam, the practical test was another Virtual War; courtesy of Professor Murak, the yer Physical Education professor for the A-1 ss. This time, the pairings or leaders never changed, as well as the result. It''s like the bnce of power between the TOP rank students was like flowing water that wasn''t experiencing any kind of disruption. ... "Russell... Arthur said that he got the money for the artifact he needed, and he''ll buy it tomorrow evening after the students are allowed to go on vacation." Presently, Amelie spoke to him ¡ª who was sitting on the stool; this time, they were in the kitchen. "Alright, tell him it''s a deal." Tap. Tap. Amelie tapped on her smartwatch, replying to Arthur Wolfson whom she had contact with due to her being a member of the so-called Weaver Faction. "Oppa... I''ll be starting to roam the Soul Realm soon. I need some help first, but if I get used to it, and if the Evil Spirits are not strong enough, I''ll handle them by myself and with Estelle." Freya interjected as she closed one of the books she received regarding the Nether Realm. "Aside from that... Oppa, do you n on..." "Yes." Russell said sinctly, stopping Freya''s next words. Amelie looked confused because she didn''t know anything about it; and Russell, who saw her reaction spoke with a faint, seemingly tired smile. "Don''t worry about it, Amelie... It''s about a part of our family''s past. I''ll personally handle it." Chapter 125 The End Of Something (9) "Arthur, do you needpany?" The man with short blonde hair and deep blue eyes asked; he was the one who was somewhat obsessed with Samantha Hall, not because of her looks and body, but rather because of her reputation and family''s business. "I''ve already called some men, but do you n on joining? You have something against that bastard, right... Reinhardt?" The Student Council President ¡ª who was sitting on a high-back chain in his vi-like dormitory room ¡ª spoke casually as he looked from his side. "It will be fun, you see. So tomorrow, when the Tower of Growth or whatever the hell is that opens, we''d have less to think about. "I''m nning to get rid of him because I don''t like someone who''s getting in my way even slightly. He said firmly as he clenched his fist that was on the armrest of the high-back chair, remembering the supposed-to-be one of his toys. "It''s unfortunate for Kevin Springer, he got so much potential, but he was mysteriously killed and never been found. Though it worked out better for you, others became scared and thought that you had something to do about it. "Hmm... Arthur, do you think it''s a bad idea?" Reinhardt said as he fell into deep thought before he looked to Ruina, who was leaning with her back on the wall. She''s the one who stopped Reinhardt from making amotion during the Banquet of Obelisk after Samantha had ignored him. Her crimson eyes reflected in the dark before she interjected between the conversation of Arthur and Reinhardt. "...I don''t know about Reinhardt''s thoughts, but I won''t being; though I''m curious about what you''ll do with Amelie. She''s been very obedient to your orders and did them perfectly during the past two months. It''ll be a shame if she gets disposed of." Arthur and Reinhardt pondered about her words. Although they didn''t have evidence about her; faking her actions or having ulterior motives, Arthur felt that something was amiss with her even though she was able to keep a straight face when she was talking to him. "I don''t have solid evidence, but it''s clear that she''s onto something with that Russell bastard. "...Have you two noticed that she''s the one who offered the artifact I needed, and said that Russell, the one who killed Kevin, is the seller of the artifact?" During the Ranking of Exchange, after watching Russell ¡ª their suspected killer of Kevin ¡ª on the 40th Emergence Anniversary, Arthur confirmed Russell''s skills and the acupuncture he used to humiliate Kevin by moving him to the Obelisk Tracking Field. "That makes sense... I guess I''ll see what''s about to happen." Ruina spoke, seemingly interested in what was about to unfold. ... [Announcement] Congrattions on finishing your Midterm exams! As per Obelisk rules, everyone will have an Academic Break for two weeks starting on October 15, 2062, at 6:00 P.M., until November 06, 2062. But it is advised that every student shall go back to the academy on November 04; two days before the resume of sses. May your vacation bear fruit. ¨C Vice Chancellor Dexter Rainfall. ... After reading the announcement posted on the Obelisk Website, Russell closed the high-qualityptop he bought at the Thorn of Rose. "Amelie, Arthur said that it''s tonight, right? When did he send the message again?" He looked at Amelie ¡ª who was sitting on the couch with her feet on the table ¡ª and waited for a response. "Why are you asking about the time he sent the message, Oppa?" Freya ¨C who just came back from the kitchen with tes of Etherian Bacon Sandwiches ¨C asked casually. "Well, maybe he sent the message after midnight, so it''ll probably mean tomorrow night instead of this night, right?" Amelie cackled at Russell''s trivial, but logical reasoning. "Hahaha, no, he sent me the message around 11 P.M., it''s just I kinda forgot about it and didn''t manage to tell you as soon as possible." Amelie answered with a soft tone. "Tsk. Oppa, just what are you saying? Anyway, don''t leave me again in this issue, alright? I''m probably the center of this issue because of Kevin Springer. "But... Oppa, it''s kind of suspicious, why Arthur''s obsessed with Kevin Springer that he seemed hellbent on getting rid of you because you killed him. Well, technically, it was Amelie who did it, but you''re the one who exposed yourself during the Ranking of Exchange when you used something like acupuncture, right? Simr when you left Kevin naked in the Obelisk Tracking Field." Freya said curiously after considering what happened. "Hmm... simply because he likes ordering his toys, that''s why the member of his factions are those who didn''t have or estrange with their family. It''s like with Kevin''s death, I stole one of his supposed-to-be toys. He looked at Amelie, causing her to be slightly embarrassed. "Sorry... I just exined his tendency." "It''s okay, it''s true anyway." Amelie said with a faint smile, recalling bits of memories about what she had gone through. Russell then continued describing Arthur''s personality based on his unpublished novel, but from these two''s perspectives, he had seen them in the future and wanted to change something. "...Ehh?? Is that for real? What an unfortunate man." Amelie reacted in wonder about Arthur''s situation while Freya fell silent for a moment. "Even though that''s the case, he can not justify everything he had done." Freya nodded at her older brother''s words as the Sun on the horizon set itself down while the bluish moon started to show itself up. ... 8:30 P.M. Blue Circle Bar, South of Obelisk City. Russell and Amelie arrived at a luxurious bar with various lights inside, half-naked women, round tables with yers enjoying themselves, and the counter in which two bartenders were catering to some guests. With the yer License they received ording to the Soul Contract, they were allowed to enter the bar, or at least that''s what it appeared to be because Arthur Wolfson had ordered the security to let them in while he was in a certain VIP room. The Blue Circle Bar was one of the businesses that were owned by the Shadow Guild, though these people had no idea about the faces of the one who attacked the Shadow Guild Branch in the Western Olympia, or there''s a possibility that they were not informed aside from Arthur Wolfson. Russell asked his younger sister, but this time it was done from the Star Quest Party ''Party Chat'' for a certain reason that''s included in their n, and not through telepathy that they usually do. Amelie cheered her up as two formal-looking men in ck suits assisted them to the certain VIP room where Arthur, Reinhardt, and Ruina were in. The Blue Circle Bar has three floors; two magic elevators, though the quality wasn''t like the one in the Obelisk Academy; two emergency exits, and quite a several rooms for guests who wanted to spend the night in. It''s more of a medium hotel than a bar if the name of the ce was to be disregarded. Freya said through the Party Chat in the System. ... Arriving at the near-end of the corridor, VIP room number 01 on the third floor, one of the two men knocked and said that the guests have arrived before slowly opening the door. "Come in." Arthur Wolfson spoke, prompting Russell and Amelie to enter the room that was quite spacious with a long ss table full of delicious delicacies and beverages. There were two long couches facing each other with the long ss table separating them, and then three small-sized couches on the one end of the long ss table where Arthur, Reinhardt, and Ruina were sitting, while there was only one couch on the other end, meant for Russell to be seated on. Click-! The door behind was closed by one of the two men, but Russell and Amelie didn''t bother to look back, instead, they scouted the surroundings and reported to Freya how many were inside this certain VIP room. Freya replied while Amelie interjected. Russell and Amelie fell silent and didn''t reply anymore to Freya; they focused their attention in front of them. "Good evening, Sir Arthur. This is Russell, the seller of the artifact called ''s Needle and Junain''s nket." Amelie politely introduced Russell, as though they didn''t know each other from the start, and didn''t have any kind of closure aside from business. "I see... Russell right... I remember you... you''re the one who won in the Ranking of Exchange against Bailey rkson; though the reason I remember you were due to Azalea''s senseless bet. "By the way, I''ll be frank, I don''t have enough money to buy both of them, so I''ll be buying the ''s Needle first." Russell and Amelie knew it was a lie, he might not have the money for both artifacts, but he never intended to buy Junain''s nket from the start. Arthur Wolfson ¡ª by nodding his head ¡ª signaled one of the guards that''s under the Shadow Guild that he could mobilize to check the artifact that Russell took out from his Dimensional Inventory. It was a short thick rod that didn''t have a pointed tip unlike a real needle, but there were illusory blue threads that were circling around the artifact that could only be seen with Mana-rted Sense skill. Russell handed the artifact, along with his Bank ount details to Amelie before she handed it to one of the guards, who then checked its authenticity by using a certain device that every Guild "must" have: Artifact Identifier. ... "It''s real, Sir Arthur." Reinhardt and Ruina nced at each other upon hearing the words of one of the guards. They knew that it''s been a while since Arthur started looking for that certain artifact. "I see... Hahaha! Hahahahaha! Finally! "Send the payment. I''m a man of my word." Arthur revealed a grin as he said those words while looking at Russell. Ruina asked via telepathy, though it''s a skill that''s rather bought unlike what Russell and hispanions have. Arthur, who heard Ruina''s words in his head, slowly gritted his teeth after the guard confirmed that the payment has sessfully been sent. But, at that moment, an unusual excuse ruined his mood. "Thank you, Sir Arthur, for the transaction. If you still need Junain''s nket, don''t forget to contact Amelie. "Anyway, Sir, can I go take a bathroom first?" Without minding the behavior, he nodded, and then Russell went to the bathroom that''s inside VIP Room 01. ... After a minute or two, Russell came out of the bathroom. "Sir Arthur, thank you for amodating me in this luxurious bar. I''ll make sure to remember your kindness." Before Arthur could process his words and the tone it was spoken, Russell revealed a grin, but his deep blue eyes turned suddenly cold. At that moment, Arthur was about to respond when a sword protruded from his chest, which came from behind, causing him to spit a mouthful of blood. Reinhardt and Ruina didn''t manage to react in time or quickly process what just happened. Behind Arthur Wolfson, a woman with deep blue eyes was standing; exuding the same atmosphere as the man whose deep blue eyes turned cold. Chapter 126 The End Of Something (10) Several weeks ago, in Russell''s dormitory room. "Oppa, we can take advantage of this. If I''m the only one going into the Nether Realm, a portal won''t appear, you know. So, basically, I could switch it on and off like a simple lightbulb, but there''s still a 3-second dy." Freya ¨C who just came back alone from the Nether Realm ¨C spoke to Russell and Amelie who was sitting on the bed and long couch respectively. "The problem is that we cannotmunicate with each other via telepathy through Chaos Connection. "It''s the same thing will Amery on the Chaos Training Grounds." Russell pondered for a moment before he looked at his younger sister in casual clothes as though she was taking a walk in a mall, then after a few seconds, he added a question. "Freya, will the Party Chat function through your Star Quest Party work? You know it''s about you as a Death Executioner, and it might work if you attempt tomunicate with us as being members of your Star Quest Party." "I think that''s probable, but I''m curious about the Time Difference in the Nether Realm and this world; It''s 1 to 7 respectively. "If you leave here for less than 7 seconds, it''ll probably only split seconds that you were there. Is that even possible? What I mean is that there might be a timeg between ourmunication." Amelie interjected, causing Freya to fall silent, and Russell to contemte her words. "Hmm... I think it wouldn''t matter that much on Freya''s side, rather, it''ll be our patience that''s going to be tested." What they attempted so far was for Freya to go into the Nether Realm, then use the telepathy via Chaos Connection through Russell''s identity as the Mediator of Chaos; something that''s still vague for him until today. To no avail, Freya couldn''t be reached when she was in the Nether Realm. "...Don''t mind that for now... First, let''s try the Star Quest Party Chat." Freya interjected as she agreed to her older brother''s words; the time was 7 times slower in the Nether Realm, so it would be Russell and Amelie''s problem to wait for her ording to the n they''re attempting to carry out. ... Freya went to the Nether Realm and messaged herpanions through the Party Chat; a function for the leader and members of the Star Quest Party. Amelie replied through the Party Chat, reminding Freya of the location she was in. As she moved to the Nether Realm, if she came back, she''ll be in a different location; it''s the reason why they got lost after they went back to Earth after their first journey in the Nether Realm. Though the Earth''s general structure and the Nether Realm''s general structure were not entirely the same, the truth still remained; that there''s always an equivalent ce from Earth to the Nether Realm. For this reason, Russell, Freya, and Amelie devised a n to take advantage of this phenomenon; to use this equivalent respective location and map tracing between the realm and the world. ... Thirty minutes ago before Russell and Amelie arrived in the Blue Circle Bar. The three of them first checked into a quite expensive hotel due to it being located in Obelisk City. This hotel was located just a few meters across the Blue Circle Bar. "Freya, use this map of the area here." Amelie handed Freya a printed map of the small area where the Blue Circle Bar was located. "Okay, thank you. I''ll check first where this ce is equivalent to in the Nether Realm." Upon reading some of the books that she received from the Ruler of Death, specifically the [Ruling as Death Executioner Guide (Ancient)], she learned that she could ess the Nether Realm without using her Unique Skill: Death''s Call. "Gateway of the Dead." She muttered softly, then within two seconds, her body seemed to be dark and formless as though she was swept by the wind. During their first time in essing the Nether Realm, Freya had to use the Unique Skill: Death''s Call, then make a contract with a familiar before they could return to Earth with the words ''Return to the Living World''; but this time, Freya, having the Profession: Death Executioner, could ess the Nether Realm by her own. The only conflict about this way was that she couldn''t bring herpanions or the Star Quest Party Members unless they proved themselves in helping her by subjugating Evil Spirits. After a few minutes, Freya came back as though she appeared in thin air. "Alright, the ce where Inded is somewhat deste, but the good news is that there''s a destroyed floating debris or some kind of rocks that''s equivalent to where the Blue Circle Bar is standing." Freya said in relief, causing Russell and Amelie to look and nodded at each other. "If that''s the case, let''s recount the n first." Russell then said after taking a heavy breath. ... Present, Blue Circle Bar, VIP Room 001, a minute or two before Freya stabbed Arthur Wolfson from behind. Russell said through the Party Chat function. Freya wasn''t on Earth at this moment, but moving on her own in the Nether Realm with a map on her hand that she was using to trace her steps from the Nether Realm and Earth. Amelie said through the same means: Party Chat function. Freya, from taking her steps into the Nether Realm and matching the ce from where she was to the ce they were right now, arrived in the bathroom where Russell went as an excuse. Under the Artifact: Junain''s nket, invisible to the eyes of everyone, Freya followed her older brother closely. As the door of the bathroom closed, Freya took her strides with silent footsteps towards the back of Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President; unable to be seen by the B rank guards. The Junain''s nket was capable of stealth that even some Obelisk Security Guards wouldn''t detect so easily. "Sir Arthur, thank you for amodating me in this luxurious bar. I''ll make sure to remember your kindness." Russell said before grinning, while his deep blue eyes turned cold. Freya, in a second, had deactivated the stealth artifact, which made her appear so she could take another action; it''s the restriction of the Junain''s nket... That any offensive action couldn''t be taken if it''s activated. But it''s toote... before Reinhardt, Ruina, or the two men in the formal ck suit could react to the unexpected, Freya stabbed Arthur through his chest, from his back; with a shortsword she bought through Thorn of Rose, ''Arianne''s Wish'' (Unique) that costs about a few billions of Obel. ... ¨C Arianne''s Wish Crafted using the Monster Core of the Boss Monster: Royal Knight of the Forgotten Land from the Peak Dungeon Tower, ''Tower of the Deste''. Rank: Unique ssification: Weapon ¨C Enchantments: [Sharpened Upgrade] Effect: It makes the edge of the sword easily cut through metal. [Weight Adjustment] Effect: The weight of this sword will be halved from its original weight. ¨C Intrinsic Effect: [Magic Amplification] Effect: The wielder of this sword will be granted a 25% amplification of the Skill: Mana st. [Arianne''s Will] Effect: The wielder of this sword will have an additional +20 Willpower and Tenacity stats. [Destion] Effect: When a yer is stabbed by this sword, he or she will receive a Mild Poison Debuff for 1 minute; this will drain the yer''s Stamina by 20 per second. ... [Your Trait: Nihility haspletely concealed the surroundings!] [Any form of noise will not be heard outside of this area.] [Any form of electronicmunication will be rendered useless.] Simr to Markim''s case ¡ª the branch manager of the Shadow Guild that handled the underground facility or prison where ves were forced to mine the mineral Urum (UR) ¡ª any way of sending an electrical message would not work; it''s with this case that Markim hurriedly previously told the 50 employees ¡ª who Amelie killed ¡ª to report the situation outside. "Arthur!" Reinhardt shouted in shock, but he quickly took out his ''Personal Weapon'' from his Dimensional Inventory, it''s the same case with Ruina. While the two B rank men in formal ck suits didn''t hesitate to lunge towards Freya, but before they could reach her, Russell with the Sword of ''???'' in his hand, ran towards his younger sister, then caught her away quickly. ... With his evolved Weapon Mastery, the Skill: Cull and Cut (EX) made his Agility, by using a sword weapon, 5 times his original Agility stat. At this moment, he''s a C- rank with an average stats range of 243 - 343, but he''s nearing breaking to C rank, which means that his specific Variable Stats: Strength, Agility, and Magic Power were at more than 300; then, with the benefit of "Cut" under the Skill: Cull and Cut, his Agility would be around 1500+. But there''s more to it; Russell, at this moment, was wearing a dirty white mask or the Mask of Night, increasing his Agility stat by 100 normally, then +300 if he blended into shadows. With this artifact, his "original" Agility stat would be around 400+ to 600+, making it 2,000+ to 3,000+ with the "Cut" effect. And the B rank guards'' average stats only ranges from 900 to 1350, though there''s a huge difference with Russell''s Strengthpared to the two men in a ck suit, it wouldn''t matter if they couldn''t hit him. Russell was only able to dodge Markim when he was blending in the shadows that time, during his first fight against someone with a massive gap in strength, but these people were clearly slower than an A- rank yer. ... "W-what...?" Reinhardt couldn''t believe his eyes as he saw Freya seem to glitch out of ce. "Ruina, tend to Arthur! He''s still alive!" Ruina took out High-Grade Health Potion and forced it into Arthur''s mouth after opening the lid. Although the attack was sudden, she''s somehowposed. ''I need to leave this ce.'' She didn''t expect the power of Russell, though she clearly saw previously his Status Window that''s only around F rank. ''I need to report this to them.'' Crouching down near Arthur who was slowly recovering, she devised a n to escape first, leaving everyone in the area as though she didn''t care in the first ce. ... Amelie didn''t respond to the telepathy, rather she started to move while holding the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth). Russell then lunged towards the two men and quickly rendered them to be unable to move by deeply pressing their pressure points that were equivalent to ''movement''; while Freya lunged towards Reinhardt who was on guard and guarding the recovering Arthur. ... "Why are you doing this? Didn''t the trade sessful?!" Reinhardt blocked Freya''s sword with his ''Personal Weapon'' that''s also in the form of a sword. It was a family gift due to his achievement of getting admitted to the Obelisk Academy. "It''s clear that you are nning to get rid of us here and now even if we didn''t do anything, so shut your filthy mouth, you hypocrite noble!" Freya jumped again and utilized the Skill: Short Blink. ng-! Whoosh-! "Ha... Hahahaha! I see... it seems Arthur''s judgment was right, especially about Amelie... I won''t need to drag this fight with trash like you. "Ah! Wait, I remember now... I asked some men to investigate your background... What a filthy fami¨C..." Reinhardt''s words didn''t manage toe out of his mouth. A small, roundish crimson thing flew out to the floor, making him lose the ability to speak. Chapter 127 The End Of Something (11) Blood sttered on the floor as Russell cut off the filthy mouth of Reinhardt, who reflexively reached out for his mouth that was excessively bleeding, unable to cry out with the excruciating pain that he was currently feeling. Freya thought about how quickly his older brother moved, but upon recalling the words that were toe out of Reinhardt, her emotions turned livid as she recalled the tragic past that her family went through. Bam-! Freya kicked Reinhardt, causing him to fly across the rectangr long ss table, making the delicious delicacies that were ced atop it sttered. The pieces of furniture broke, but due to their Trait: Nihility, the two guards that escorted them didn''t hear anymotion inside the VIP Room. Freya looked at her older brother who was walking menacingly towards the slumped-down Reinhardt, but her expression was simr to his; indifferent. "Hey, extra. Do you know what''s the purpose of Health Points that we, yers have?" As Russell spoke those words with an emotionless tone, he grabbed Reinhardt''s short blonde hair and then mmed his face to the floor. Bam-! "So that we won''t easily die even if we bleed or are poisoned; in some cases, even if we are stabbed to the heart with consideration of high-rank weapons from Unique to Legendary, it''ll take at least 90% of Health Points, then 2% per second until the yer dies. "How about a bleeding tongue? "Ignorance and Apathy, in other words, I don''t know, and I don''t care. Bam-! Russell coldly mumbled before he kicked Reinhardt, sending him again flying across the other end of the VIP Room. He''s avoiding hitting the door where they came in; although the surroundings had been hidden due to their Trait: Nihility, it wouldn''t exactly mean that the two guards who remained outside wouldn''te in out of nowhere, or wouldn''t see a cracked door from their backs if it was somewhat damaged by the impact. "Oppa-!" "Keukk-!" Freya''s voice cut off Russell''s thoughts as a kick sent him flying due to one of the two men in a formal ck suit mildly recovering from the Void Acupuncture; he didn''t use the option where he could apply Chaos Aura to put pressure to the souls of the target yers ¡ª another effect of Void Acupuncture. One of the two men who forced himself to move had the veins in his shoulders, thighs, and legs to swelled out; it''s a disgusting sight for underage people like Russell, Freya, and Amelie ¡ª that was if they hadn''t seen worst like the existence of Abomination and Nether Creatures. Freya didn''t reach for her older brother, instead, she managed to quickly approach Arthur Wolfson who was hanging on his life, and barely recovering. "Step back! If you don''t want to see the head of your boss fly away!" Putting Arianne''s Wish (Unique) to his neck, Freya warned the guard who forced himself to fight. ... ''F*ck! That hurts a lot!'' Being caught off guard by someone with a Strength stat that''s around 900 to 1,350, the impact of the kick from the B rank guard was something bone-crushing, he felt like his ribs would pop out. He quickly took out two High-Grade Health Potions he bought from Thorn of Rose and chugged it down as he opened their lid. Russellmended in his mind the action that Freya took, not prioritizing him or getting emotional just because he was kicked, rather, she took advantage of the groaning Arthur Wolfson; even though he had drank a High-Grade Health Potion, he was still hanging to life due to the critical strike that Freya dealt. Freya might have missed striking the heart, but it was so close that Arthur''s Health Points dropped to 20%, then as of this moment, it was probably around 50% as Ruina forced to his mouth a High-Grade Health Potion, but due to the Intrinsic Effect of Arianne''s Wish, he couldn''t move due to the Mild Poison Debuff that''s strangely draining only his Stamina instead of both Stamina and Health. "S-stop!" One of the two men that apanied Arthur shouted as Freya cut Arthur''s cheek; he slowly took his pace, waiting for a possible opening. Freya just reassured that the 1-minute Mild Poison Debuff wouldn''t run out of effect, that''s why she cut Arthur''s cheek so that the Intrinsic Effect: Destion would remain kicking in. "Don''t f*cking make a single step or I''ll rather stab his neck!" Freya made another warning; she felt relieved as she saw her older brother stand up, good as new. ... ''Fuck! I need to leave this ce, but how?'' Ruina, who was fighting against Amelie, thought inwardly. "Hey girl, I can''t believe you really betrayed Arthur. You looked good being a loyal dog. "Your acts are so natural in front of him that you should have be an actress." Ruina spoke in a calm yet sarcastic tone, but she was trying to rack her brain on how to escape this ce that turned into something unexpected. ''I need to report this quickly, so they will let mee back.'' "Thank you for yourpliment, b*tch!" ? Suddenly, Amelie''s pink hair and ruby eyes turned ck and she then disappeared from Ruina''s crimson eyes. Whoosh-! Amelie smashed the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) as she went behind Ruina. But unexpectedly, Ruina caught it with her right hand without even looking behind. "Ha... Hahahahaha! b*tch you say?" [Activating Skill: Crimson Threads (C)] Through her right hand, blood-like threads emanated and wrapped around Amelie''s weapon. ... ''Is she seeing me in my Shade Transformation?'' Amelie assessed the situation, and then, after some time, she concluded... ''No, that''s not it. She''s using her somehow extraordinary senses. Heh... Heh heh.'' A grin formed on Amelie''s lips. ... "Come out you cowardly b*tch!" Ruina didn''t manage to firmly hold Amelie''s Personal Weapon, but she felt where she was hovering. ''This is not a normal skill... what is she? Hah... Hahaha! This is something else!'' Sheughed in her mind at the peculiarity of these people. At that moment, Amelie deactivated the Unique Skill: Shade Transformation, she then stood in front of Ruina at least two meters away. "Hey... Ruina, right? You see... I received an order not to kill you. I don''t know why... but when it''s that kind of order, it must mean there''s something very interesting about you." Ruina felt a chill run down her spine as goosebumps spread all over her body upon hearing the words that Amelie said. "W-what... W-whose order?" She asked with a trembling mouth, although she didn''t know if these people knew about the specifics about her, she felt like her thoughts had been disrupted by the possibility. "His order." Amelie looked at Russell who just stood up from getting kicked by one of the guards, while the remaining guard still couldn''t move or he wasn''t risking feeling the pain of twisting his own veins. Ruina looked at Russell with her crimson eyes wide. ... ''I-I need to request backup.'' Reinhardt, with a bleeding mouth and fleeting consciousness, mustered his will with his thoughts that turned into a mess. He didn''t bother about his tongue that flew out instantly because he knew that with the Advanced Health Potion, it could be brought back. As he was lying on the floor, he opened his smartwatch to contact someone with more authority in the Shadow Guild. But his expression froze upon seeing the smartwatch. ''N-no signal...? H-how!'' The signal of the smartwatch wouldn''t disappear within the entirety of Orion Continent unless these conditions had been met; the yer was inside a Strayed Dungeon or Dungeon Tower; the smartwatch was broken, and if there''s an artifact or skill that rendered any signals. "Extra... you see, it''s useless. Don''t worry about it, I''ll call them for you, soon enough." He didn''t know why this man was calling him extra, but there was something about it that made him inexplicably upset. "Keuk-!" Russell hit Reinhardt''s abdomen using the back of the Sword of ''???'', making him spit a mouthful of blood. ... The two men in ck suits were told beforehand that they would get rid of the man that Arthur would have a transaction with, and the woman who was acting as the mediator between them. They didn''t call for backup because they thought that they could get rid of two underage kids, but the unexpected struck them due to the unusual prowess of their supposed-to-be targets, and the presence of the unexpected variable, Freya. ''F*ck this young master whatnot! Acting all and might, but can''t even gauge the other''s true strength! I need to live!'' Said inwardly by the guard who didn''t move even though he could do the same thing just as the other guard, his co-worker did. As the situation somewhat calmed down, he slowly spoke. "S-spare me. P-please! I''ll do anything!" He looked at the young man with deep blue eyes and short deep ck hair; the unusually fast yer for his age. "I-I have a family to feed. Please, I''ll do anything." He begged, though his words remained true. "Hey, Algar! What are you doing?! We''d be dead if we let Boss Arthur die!" "Shut up, Ferd! I''m done babysitting that f*cking brat!" He spoke his true thoughts, then a pair of feet stood in front of Algar, the one who begged to live for his family. ... "Be honest with me, do you n on getting rid of us after the transaction was over?" Freya asked as she stood in front of the staggering Algar. Algar, who was now on his knees, looked at the attractive woman whose deep ck hair was in a ponytail, but before he could speak, Freya added... "If you lie, you will die by my hands, and if you say the truth, you-" "Y-yes! Arthur had ordered us to get rid of the two individuals before you arriv-" Algar''s head flew off as Freya swung the Arianne''s Wish (Unique), causing his blood to gush out of his neck and stter across the VIP Room, especially on the broken ss table; the crimson blood seemed to blend with the party lights that''s illuminating the VIP Room. "If you say the truth... you will also die." Freya finished her words, causing Russell and Amelie to look at her with different emotions on their faces; the former was feeling concerned and in disbelief, while thetter was an expression of understanding Freya''s decision. "A-Algar! You motherf*cker!" Ferd forced himself to lunge toward Freya, but his veins gave and burst out, causing him to slowly bleed to death. Freya looked at his older brother who approached the man named Ferd and heard him mutter. "Quick death is the only constion I''ll be able to give you." Russell then beheaded Ferd, too. Then, at that moment, Freya''s voice reverberated throughout the VIP Room that''s being concealed by their Trait: Nihility. "Hypocrites... h-how can you say that you have a family to feed, but are willing to get rid of us who have a family, waiting for us, too?" Shemented as drops of tears started to flow down her deep blue eyes; it was her first time killing someone who probably have their own loved ones, waiting for them. ... In a certain region of the Land of the Harvest, the country of Etheria. "Mama!" Two young children; one boy that was around 5 years old, and one girl that was around 7 years old. "W-when''s Papaing back home?" The young boy said as he approached his mother who was processing some crops or Etherian vegetables of various types. "Ma, I miss Papa. I hope he''ll bring us something, like choctes when hees back!" "I-I love c-choltes, too!" The young girl said, and then the young boy chimed in. Patting and rubbing the head of her children, the mother spoke with a wide smile on her face. "Hmm... Daddy Algar wille back, soon alright? With many, many choctes! So, behave well, okay?" ''Algar... I hope you are safe.'' She looked at the bluish moon that was illuminating the farnds of Etheria as the cold wind intensified through the deep night. Chapter 128 The End Of Something (12) "T-this..." Ruina saw the heads of Algar and Ferd, the two bodyguards that were under themand of Arthur Wolfson, the Student Council President of the Obelisk Academy. Arthur Wolfson, on the other hand, was cut again by Freya ¡ª who calmed down after some time after she beheaded Algar ¡ª so that he wouldn''t be able to move with his condition due to the Intrinsic Effect: Destion, while Reinhardt of the Apollon family was groaning in pain and wascking the strength to move, barely hanging to his life due to excessive bleeding of his tongue. "If I were you, I wouldn''t resist, so stop thinking of a way to escape, it''s all painted in your pretty face." Amelie took out something from her Dimensional Inventory, and then toss it to Ruina, who was standing from a distance. "Mana Nullifier?" It''s a handcuff that''s used to restrain criminals, but with Azalea''s authority as the "secret" owner of the ck Market known as Thorn of Rose, Russell had purchased them with her help for quite an amount. Russell took out one, as well as Freya, then they put it on to Reinhardt and Arthur respectively. "Aren''t you going to put it on yourself?" Amelie retracted her gaze from Russell and Freya, then looked back to Ruina, who was staring at a gray in color handcuff on the floor that was emanating a blue aura with a little magic circle carved on it. "W-where did you get them? It''s standard military equipment used against criminals! Y-you! Are the three of you undercover in the academy?!" Ruina became cautious, still not picking up the Mana Nullifier. "That''s a ludicrous thing for you to say." Russell''s cold voice interjected as he and his younger sister dragged Reinhardt and Arthur''s weakening bodies and lined them up together, causing Amelie to form a faint smile before she added... "Ruina...st chance, are you going to put it on yourself, or we''ll do it by force?" Ruina contemted what had transpired before she slowly picked up the Mana Nullifier and put it to her wrists. Click-! At that moment, the gray-colored handcuff that''s made of a metal called E-Alloy or Enhanced Alloy that''s discovered Post-Emergence had its blue aura intensified and Ruina felt like she became a normal human that only existed Pre-Emergence. "That''s a wise decision." Russell spoke as he slowly approached her after she walked near the kneeling Arthur Wolfson ¡ª who was in disbelief; and Reinhardt ¨C who couldn''t even speak, shot res towards him. ... "Ruina, tell the guards in any way, standing by the door outside not to disturb anything inside at the moment." Russell ordered her, while Reinhardt and Arthur looked at her with eyes that were begging her to inform the guards. The distance between the trio who were kneeling was about a meter apart; Arthur Wolfson was kneeling in the middle with his hands on his back that''s on handcuffed; Reinhardt Apollon was on the left side, while Ruina was kneeling on the right side of the battered Student Council President. Ruina looked at Russell with her disbelieving crimson eyes as she pricked up her brows despite her situation. He took a measure that even though the inside of the VIP Room was under the Trait: Nihility, the two guards outside might stille in out of nowhere. "I see... you think I''m crazy, right? These two clearly are eyeing you to report what''s happening inside, but even though you scream from here, they won''t hear you." "Y-you motherf*cker!" Arthur Wolfson, after an unknown period of time, interjected. Russell crouched down in front of Arthur upon hearing him. Smack-! Smack-! Russell pped him on his right cheek, and his left cheek. "Y-you-" Smack-! Smack-! He repeatedly pped the battered face of Arthur, causing Ruina to have her crimson eyes to dte; Amelie, on the one hand, was grinning in the spectacle as if she wanted to do it, and on the other hand, Freya was just looking in front of her as though her world was somewhere else. "I''m not talking to you, so shut your filthy mouth, or else you''ll be the same as that bastard on your left." Arthur looked at Reinhardt and noticed that his mouth was bleeding, he then realized that Reinhardt''s tongue was missing. "...Y-you won''t get away with this! Do you think you will be safe after this!? You bunch of first ye¨C!" Bam-! "When you are told to shut up, just do so S-I-R Arthur." Amelie ¨C using the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) ¨C had pped him so hard, causing a few numbers of his white teeth to fly off. Ruina ¨C who was watching everything from the side ¨C looked at Russell before she asked with curiosity. "You... why are you trusting me that I won''t tell the guards outside if you let me go there?" "Hmm... I see, don''t get me wrong, I don''t trust you, but... it''s the only way you''ll get to live. "Apart from that..." ... Russell crouched down in front of Ruina and whispered something to her ears that couldn''t be heard by everyone inside. Ruina''s crimson eyes dted and her lips trembled upon hearing the words of Russell. Amelie and Freya, as well as Arthur and Reinhardt, became curious about what he said because Ruina''s expression turned into something they wouldn''t expect in this situation. After her trembling lips, it turned into a wide smile. ... "Freya, can you gag Arthur''s mouth first, he might scream the moment the door opens even slightly." Russell asked his younger sister, in which she nodded in response Everyone in the VIP Room was tainted with blood, especially because of the blood that gushed out from the necks of Algar and Ferd when their heads were cut off. After a few seconds, Ruina, with her hands on her back, stood up and approached the door; she then slightly opened it, causing her crimson eyes to peek outside through the small gap. The two guards who were on standby reacted and saw her. "Don''t disturb us in any way possible unless it''s an emergency." The two guards ¡ª who couldn''t clearly see what was happening inside due to party lights ¡ª nodded at her words. Ruina walked back, and nced at Arthur and Reinhardt with an excited expression, causing them to feel confused about the sudden change of Ruina. "R-Ruina?? Why? Did you just betray us?!" Arthur''s blue eyes shot res at her while he was gritting his teeth, with seething indignation. ... "Mr. Student Council President, answer the questions that I will ask, so you will live." Russell took a stool ¡ª from the corner of the VIP Room ¡ª that wasn''t used due to the numerous couch, ces it a meter away from Arthur, then sat on it. "Hahahaha! Do you think you will get away with this if you let me live?! I''m not an idiot! "I don''t know how the three of you possess such strengths, but you all are still weak-ass brats against high-rank yers!" Arthur said with a wide smile on his face, feeling ted as he thought that these people had made the greatest mistake of their lives by messing with him. "Of course, we''re just an ant to them, but what about you? Something less than an ant because you are in that situation right now?" Russell rebutted as he scoffed at Arthur''s words. Arthur subconsciously clenched his fists on his back, but before he could answer, Russell added... "How many people have you enved? You see, I never forgive you for manipting Bailey rkson to spread rumors about me and Victoria. "And spare the words, I know about your skills, and the ''s Needle is the artifact you need to amplify your control-rted skills, right?" Arthur listened to Russell''s words that were spoken, full of certainty, causing his blue eyes to widen in disbelief. "Y-you have a Status Appraisal Skill?!" He spoke in anger, but his words just left Russell''s ear from the right to his ear on the left. "Answer the question." Russell insisted. "Hahahaha! I don''t know, I''m not counting, but probably... more than a thousand??" Amelie and Freya''s eyes constricted upon hearing theugh, and his answer. "I see... thank you for your honesty. I can''t believe it wille out of your own mouth, at least it saves us some time here even for a few seconds." Arthur, Reinhardt, and Ruina didn''t understand Russell''s words, except for Amelie and Freya who nned this thing from the beginning. "Amelie, give that bastard a Low-Grade Health Potion first, he must be dying from bleeding." Russell pointed to Reinhardt before he looked back at Arthur, but this time... Russell''s expression turned cold and very serious. ... "Arthur Wolfson... No father, and no mother... Nephew of the Shadow Guild''s Guild Master, enved people to be forced to work in any other way, but mostly in some mines... "You wanted to manipte people, created the Weaver Faction under the permission of the Guild Master of the Shadow Guild; you thought that you can weave the fates of people that would be under you... "But the truth is that you are a very envious man when it came to other people''s achievement or specifically if the person or yer sessfully made a contract with a Constetion... "Because... you were so excited that you identally made a contract with an Evil Constetion that turned you into that Constetion''s puppet. It''s also the reason why you are so envious of Victoria when you came to know that she received an offer with a Constetion with a seemingly ancient name even though she''s not even done in her second year. "What a pitiful man... the Evil Constetion must have asked you to enve a few people per month, but you became drunk with power that you felt like having toys to control whenever you wanted; and if your toys were harm in any way, you''ll be hellbent of eliminating the suspect... just like me..." Arthur''s mouth didn''t receive any strength to open upon hearing something he wanted to forget in his life; Ruina and Reinhardt looked at Arthur with wondering expressions because they didn''t know about the underlying circumstances of Arthur Wolfson''s contract. "I''ll kill you... I''ll kill you!" Arthur shouted angrily as his blue eyes seemed to turn slightly red due to the burst of emotion; his veins also bulged on his forehead. "I''ll personally hunt your family! You f-" Spurt-! Spurt-! At that moment, Russell beheaded the Student Council President of the Obelisk Academy. Arthur''s blood gushed out from his headless body, it stted across the VIP Room that was already painted with blood due to Algar and Ferd''s dead bodies. ''That''s why it''s extremely hard to live in this kind of world; the enemies are threatening something very vulnerable.'' Russell didn''t voice his thoughts verbally, rather, he looked at Ruina, and then nodded his head; as if Ruina had understood him, she stood up from kneeling and approached Reinhardt. ... ''A-Arthur''s dead... W-why is this happening? ''N-no! This must be a dream! I need to wake up!'' Reinhardt ¨C who somewhat recovered his Health Points as Amelie forced a Low-Grade Health Potion in his mouth ¨C had his thoughts turn into a mess as he''s staring in fear at Arthur''s headless body. ''P-please! Wake up! F*ck! T-this isn''t real! ''R-right! These people are weak, this is not real!'' He tried to p his cheeks, but he was reminded that he was under a Mana Nullifier. "H-hey... R-Russell, right...? I-I''ll do anything. P-please just spare me. I won''t talk badly or harm your family! "W-what do you n-need? M-money? I-I''m a billionaire! I-I can give the three of you a great sum! J-just spare my life... I don''t want to die." As the eldest son of the Apollon family, a noble family that''s based in the country, Cassiopeia or the Land of the Nobles, he''s a wealthy man at the age of 18. "Reinhardt..." At that moment, he heard a voice behind him. It was the voice of a woman he was familiar with. "R-Ruina...?" "Reinhardt... I''ve been wanting to do this for a while because I was very curious about you... how you taste like." Before Reinhardt could process the words that came out of Ruina''s mouth, his scream reverberated through the VIP Room. "Arrggghhhh!!!!!" He saw something... like an embodiment of horror. Ruina''s crimson eyes had their luster intensified. She then revealed two, white fangs that were not the size of normal human teeth. Chapter 129 The End Of Something (13) A few minutes ago before Russell beheaded Arthur. Russell crouched down to Ruina''s side, not letting his guard down as he knew the nature of the woman with red hair and crimson eyes. He leaned his head and whispered in her ear. "I know you are dying to taste Reinhardt''s blood, especially with the blood that''s sttered across this room. "I know what you are. If you do what I say, I''ll let you live or even help you go back to your n, or get revenge against those who cast you out. "It''s not like you have any choice as I told you about what I know because if we secretly reported you to the authorities, you are finished either way." ... Presently, Freya and Amelie looked at Ruina sucking the blood out of Reinhardt as she positioned herself behind him. Their expressions were of utter shock. "...Russell, is she a vampire? I thought they only exists in horror or some romantic movies." Amelie asked as she curiously stared at Ruina; Russell didn''t tell them anything about her. "Let''s talkter, we are pressed for time." Russell briefly said, causing Amelie to nod in response. Reinhardt''s scream reverberated throughout the VIP Room, but after a few minutes, his scream gradually weakened ¡ª a sign of him losing his Health and Stamina. He couldn''t do anything due to the Mana Nullifier that was wrapped around his wrists. Thud-! His body gave up, truly killing him this time. "Satisfied?" Russell asked as he looked at Ruina, while Amelie and Freya were on guard due to an unexpected variable that they encountered for the first time. "...What''s your question?" ... "I see... It seems you are quick to catch on, huh...? What''s your rtionship with Tanya Drusi from the A-1 ss of the first year?" Russell asked while maintaining his cold demeanor; Amelie and Freya''s ears pricked up upon hearing a familiar name, but their reactions were entirely different from each other; the former constricted her eyes, while thetter had a look of understanding as if she knew why her older brother had asked such a question. ''Tanya, that b*tch...? Is she also a vampire?'' Amelie recalled her direct encounter with Tanya ¡ª who was wrapping her arms around Ken Raven that time ¡ª when Maya became her Personal Attendant under Russell''s orders. She didn''t say anything verbally, but she continued to listen attentively just like Freya, waiting for Ruina''s next words. "Ha... It seems with the information you possess, I won''t be able to hide anything from you, right? Well, I think you already know, but Tanya''s a vampire, too, just like me." Ruina spoke casually as she crouched down near Reinhardt''s dead body whose back was leaning on the wall, she then used one of his shoulders as a pillow as though she had been wanting to do that for a long time. ''I don''t know how much information this man knew; based on the reactions of the other two, they didn''t know about vampires, so it''s only right to be more cautious of this man.'' "Hmm... You see, I''m not asking about what she is, rather, what''s your rtionship with her? Also, what''s your real name?" "Haha, you really are a meticulous man, aren''t you? About that... I don''t have a close rtionship with her, so I don''t know anything about her business. Then, about my real name... It''s Ruina, no surname. Does it suffice?" Ruina said as she caressed the cheek of the dead Reinhardt as though she was ying with a toy; Reinhardt''s body became thin due to theck of blood. "It''s normal that you don''t have a surname because you are a cast-out vampire; Tanya is probably simr to you. Then, each of your family right now is charmed in some way, letting them think that you two are their legitimate daughter or sibling. "In other words, if what you said earlier is correct... That you two barely knew each other, it would mean that you two probably belong to two different ns." Russell spoke casually with a cold voice; he didn''t miss the slight flinch from Ruina, especially when he mentioned them... being cast out. ''T-this... This man is dangerous!'' Before she could open her mouth, Amelie interjected as something poked her curiosity. "Excuse me, Russell, but how they didn''t get detected, especially about their race?" Amelie''s concern was about how these vampires were enjoying their lives inside the Obelisk Academy. "Hmm... It''s probably the ring in her hand. It has the ability to change her race; her whole physique, which would reflect in her Status Window. Though I''m certain that this woman was lucky enough to avoid Artorious'' eyes or else she would be killed on the spot." The uracy of the information that Russell was spewing as if he knew the ins and outs of the vampire race sent chills down Ruina''s spine. ''I don''t know why he spared me, but I need to get out of this. This is very valuable information, enough for me to go back to the n... That there are humans that already know our existence!'' She thought calmly, assessing the next possible course of action. ording to Russell''s information or from what he had written in his unpublished novel, vampires were the race that took pride in their strength and n, and they considered humans as trash, not seriously worth paying attention to. But, they still sent vampire spies because of only one reason: the frightening ability of humanity to adapt; with vampire spies, they would be able to attack internally if some worth noting circumstances needed to be eliminated or reported. "Don''t worry about it. I''ll let you live if you do myst request, but first... Amelie." ... Amelie heard Russell''s words, and as if she knew what he was referring to, she stood up from her seat, took out the Staff of the Lost Shade (Growth) that she put inside the Dimensional Inventory after the fighting, and walked towards the headless body of the Student Council President, Arthur Wolfson. [Activating Skill: Dark Resurrection (Forbidden)] At that moment, the staff in Amelie''s hand left by itself, vertically floated in midair, while Amelie subconsciously made a hand sign that signified the shape of a "spade". Layers of dark magic circles with intricate and esoteric rune inscriptions ovepped with the headless body of Arthur. After a few seconds, his blood that sttered and made a pool started to move by itself as though it''s water that has a natural flow in a river; his head that was detached also followed suit, connecting itself to the neck of the body. After the ritualistic process, Amelie received various System messages. ... [The Skill: Dark Resurrection has sessfully been performed.] [The yer target, ''Arthur Wolfson'' does not have the Trait: Chaos.] [With theck of Trait: Chaos, the yer target, ''Arthur Wolfson'' will be your "Puppet".] [The contract of the yer target, ''Arthur Wolfson'' will be forcibly cut off!] [The Constetion, ''Weaver of the False Thread'' has been hit on the Lumen Heart!] [The Constetion, ''Weaver of the False Thread'' wonders about what had happened.] [Your Trait: Nihility has greatly dyed the information about the yer target, Arthur Wolfson''s death.] [The Constetion, ''Weaver of the False Thread'' has let go of any connections regarding his champion.] ... "Cough! Cough!" Ruina had her crimson eyes filled with horror at the sight of something impossible. "A-Arthur...?" She asked in disbelief as her crimson eyes dted. "Sess! I can feel some connection with him, I think it''s alright now." Amelie said casually as she looked at Russell; she didn''t mind whatever reaction Ruina had. Russell nodded at her before she proceeded to experiment with the resurrected Arthur. "Arthur, punch your face." ''Arthur, punch your face." Smack-! Smack-! "Hmm... Commanding him just works verbally and mentally." "I guess it''ll be alright for now." Russell ¡ª who witnessed the incredible ritualistic process ¡ª said casually. The reason why they had dyed the n to get rid of Arthur was because of Russell''s death unexpectedly; through it, Amelie had to use the Skill: Dark Resurrection, then waited for 60 Earth Days for cooldown. "About this mess... Ruina, do you think you can clean up this with some Blood-rted skills?" Russell asked casually as if Ruina already became subservient to him. ... After an unknown period of time, the VIP Room felt like new, except for the ss table that shattered. All of them ¡ª one by one ¡ª changed clothes to the bathroom where Freya came in from the Nether Realm earlier due to the sttered blood on them. "Russell, how about the bodies of these three?" Amelie asked calmly; she was referring to Reinhardt, Ferd, and Algar; the two had their heads cut off, while Reinhardt became as thin as a bone with all the blood that was sucked by Ruina. "Let Arthur take care of that by letting him fabricate something. I think he has a will on his own, but will be a hundred percent subservient to you if you give him an order." Russell said as he looked at his younger sister who''s been quiet all this time since she had an emotional breakdown after she killed Algar. "I see... Arthur, do whatever you want, but don''t cause any harm. Then get rid of the bodies in any way you think is possible." Arthur ¡ª who''s alive, but at the same time, dead ¡ª bowed at Amelie''s words before she called some connection that he can be trusted. Ruina was watching the spectacle in disbelief as various thoughts surfaced in her mind. ''T-that''s monstrous! Even in the vampire ns, resurrection-rted skills are very rare; there''s only one vampire per n who could perform such a skill... And yet this girl could also control the resurrected body... Just who the hell are these people?!'' She knew who they were, but she couldn''t help but wonder about the ins and outs of the identity of these individuals. ''This is more than enough to get me back to the n, and the n Leader might even give me another reward... I need to take a chance to report this!'' "Amelie, take off Ruina''s Mana Nullifier, here''s the key." Russell tossed a simple, small gray key that could open the gray handcuff or the Mana Nullifier that''s wrapped around Ruina''s wrists. ... ''Heh... This man is somehow an idiot, I guess they really have that thinking capacity as minors.'' Amelie approached Ruina, holding the gray key that Russell had tossed; she then insert the key through the keyhole of the handcuff or Mana Nullifier. Click-! Ruina felt instantly her Mana before she implemented something she nned about after some consideration. At that moment, Ruina appeared behind Amelie as she used the Skill: Blood Blink (C+), which allowed her to be like a crimson smoke, teleporting her within a hundred meters. "What a shame, I was nning to survive by helping the three of you for whatever reason you want me for." Ruina had bitten Amelie''s neck, and was draining her blood; Russell raised his sword, as well as Freya. "Truly... What a shame..." Amelie seemed rxed even though she was gradually being drained of her blood; at that moment, Ruina felt something burning from her mouth, throat, and inside her body. At that moment, Ruina''s expression turned into something indescribable; she looked at Amelie''s blood that somewhat sshed in her hand. It was colored dark but changing, depending on the circumstances. "Sigh... thank you for being honest, Ruina." Russell interjected as Ruina let go of Amelie, but her body was gradually turning ck, seemingly turning her into a piece of architecture or art. Ruina didn''t know what was happening, but she knew that it was from Amelie''s blood. "Hey... b*tch, thank you for calling me one earlier... Because I was one." Smack-! Amelie smashed Ruina''s head which was bing dark in color, sending her unconscious... Then after a minute or two, her whole body became dark as charcoal, truly killing her this time. "What a long night this is..." Amelie muttered softly, after looking at Ruina''s dead body, who experienced a somehow anticlimactic death. ... October 16, 2062, 12:01 A.M. [The Tower of Growth will now open!] Chapter 130 The Mysteries Of "His" Reincarnation [1] [World Announcement!] To the beings of the world, Earth or 342; the Close Mystery Tower, ''Tower of Growth'' will now open! How to ess the Tower of Growth: 1. Ask the System for ess. 2. The System will present a question to the yer who asked for ess. 3. With the yer''s permission, along with the yer''s party, the mysterious power of the tower will transport the yers inside the Tower of Growth itself. Reminders: ¨C Once the yer or the party essed the Tower of Growth, they could not leave; it''s either to clear it or to be eliminated. ¨C The difficulty will not be adjusted even if a solo yer or a party less than the maximum capacity challenges the Tower of Growth. May your choice bring forth the future you wanted to create. ... [World Announcement!] As the Close Mystery Tower opens, the influence of the Constetions that are observing or interacting with the inhabitants of 342 has been greatly strengthened! ... Many things had ended tonight; Freya''s innocent hands had been tainted with blood; Arthur''s life had been snatched away, but more importantly, the repercussions it would bring in the future would either be for the better or the worst because it was supposed to be Jiho and Anya who would take the matters in their hands, but Anya instead focused on Jiho''s identity, and Jiho focused on Anya''s information regarding the ''Dungeon Terrorism'' that might be the cause of his secluded vige, Sanctus Sris'' nigh destruction. With the control of Amelie, Arthur discreetly reported what happened, not to the Shadow Guild, but rather, to Azalea, the owner of the Thorn of Rose. The initial n was to let Arthur call someone he trusted in the Shadow Guild, but Russell retracted the idea, and instead suggested Azalea. Through the call, Arthur had told her that Russell rmended her to take on such matters; without a doubt, it was cleaned up neatly ¡ª a very skillful cover-up. What Azalea did was to send some men to the Blue Circle Bar, VIP Room 01, and let them enter the room under Arthur''s order. These men''s profession was called Gravekeeper; they have the exclusive skill to turn a coffin into a finger-size miniature after a body was ced inside; then Arthur dealt with the two guards outside the door by ordering them to take some day off, in which the two guards happily obliged. After that, he fabricated a story on how the two; Ferd and Algar died, as well as Reinhardt and Ruina; they raided a Strayed Dungeon that''s also under the control of Azalea as the owner of Thorn of Rose. The Thorn of Rose was something that was not hidden under the gaze of the TOP-ranked yers, instead, they just didn''t know the identity of the one who was managing the entire organization throughout the Orion Continent. It means that it would only be normal even if Arthur said to the Shadow Guild''s Guild Master that they attempted to raid a Strayed Dungeon with the help of B rank guards, but rather met with an unknown variable which resulted in the death of the two B rank guards, Reinhardt, and Ruina. And with Russell''s help, with his knowledge about his unpublished novel, he named a certain Strayed Dungeon that fitted the bill that''s under the control of Azalea or the Thorn of Rose; Azalea then ordered some of her men to fabricate the Strayed Dungeon records entry. With that, everything that had transpired has been settled; though Russell and the others hoped that some loopholes wouldn''t be found by others, especially Reinhardt''s family who''s aiming for Samantha''s father''s businesses. ... October 17, 2062 ¨C One day "after" the opening of the Tower of Growth. "Surprise!!!" "Haha! I didn''t forget, you know, but I didn''t expect this... Thank you so much!" Russell let out a genuineugh as he hugged his parents, as well as his younger sister ¡ª a family hug he never experienced in his previous life. [Activating Skill: Mark of the Night (EX).] Patting the head of his mother and father, he finally had the chance to use the emergency skill that would let him teleport to them wherever they were, and would allow him to know if they were in a very dangerous situation. ... He and Freya went to their new home that''s situated in the Southern Obelisk City, just near the small cksmithingpany of Old Cal ¡ª the one who saved their family fromplete ruin several years ago. Thanks to the money they received from selling the rights of the first Micro-Strayed Dungeon, it was more than enough for them to buy a new home, and contribute to Old Cal''spany. "Happy Birthday, son." Arche Moon, their father greeted him as Russell hugged them tightly. "Russell, Happy 17th Birthday. I love you." It was Melina Moon''s words of affirmation. "Oppa... Happy birthday, I love you!" It was Freya''s love for her older brother. As the hugs were released, Russell looked at them with a teary eye. Although he''s 33 years old mentally excluding his 17 years of age in this world, he''s deeply touched by the surprise that his parents did. Freya was also informed about it, causing her to make some excuses to dy their return after the recent incident regarding Arthur Wolfson and the others. "Thank you, I love you, too. Mom... Dad... Freya..." Even with the staggering amount of money they now possessed, their parents didn''t make a grand surprise, but rather a simple feast because they were not used to it yet. "Russell... I don''t know what to give you, it''s just overwhelming with the amount of money you and Freya gave me and your father." "Haha, Mom... Don''t worry about it. The only thing that matters is that you are safe. "To be honest, I''m the one who has a surprise for you and Dad..." "Haha! Mom, Dad! It looks like you two will be the ones celebrating!" Freya said cheerfully as she and her older brother took out some things from their respective Dimensional Inventory. "...Skillbooks??" Their mother asked in wonder; Russell and Freya took out several Skillbooks; the former took out the Skillbooks for cksmithing, for his father, while thetter took out the Skillbooks for Transmuter, for her mother. "Yes, Mom. With this, you''ll be able to help Old Cal in more ways. You know, we didn''t ask the two of you to resign from your job because we are indebted to him even though we are now wealthy, right...?" Freya said with a smile as her deep blue eyes seemed to produce tears since it was the first time that she would be able to greatly help her mother. "You... Freya, Russell... Sigh... I have no words... You know, we have wished that we have a Fighting-type profession so we could protect the two of you, especially since the opening of something like the Tower of Growth." "Don''t worry, Mom... Just stay safe! Argh! I''m hungry, let''s eat dinner first!" "You silly girl, really." Melina smiled at her delightful daughter before she looked at her son; they then proceeded with the feast that they prepared tonight for Russell''s birthday. ... On the roof of their new home, Russell was lying on the roof with both his hands at the back of his head. The view of the starry night sky seemed more majestic, the bluish moon was illuminating the parts of the world, and the cold wind was sending chills down his skin. A wave of nostalgia started to envelop him as various thoughts surfaced in his mind. He, Freya, and his parents were originally from the country, Cassiopeia, or the Land of the Nobles; then, their parents were living in a ce that the nobles of that country found filthy ¨C the Red Lunar District. His mother, Melina was originally a prostitute before she met Arche Moon, his father. During that time, Arche Moon was only a carriage driver; though humanity had advanced so much, it didn''t apply to every part of the Orion Continent such as the Red Lunar District. The nobles considered the ce so filthy that it was forbidden to drive even a car or motorcycle even just near that area. It also served as evidence that even though the Obelisk Organization exists, the rulers of their respective countries could impose aw based on their King, Queen, or President, along with their Senates'' desire. In other words, the Obelisk Organization''s main purpose was only the unification of humanity in the grand scheme of things such as humanity''s future. Then one day, Melina ran from her work because she couldn''t take it anymore, but then, she became wanted because of a "certain noble" that became obsessed with her after only one night. It was that time she met Arche Moon; she didn''t know whether it was meant to be, but she unintentionally dragged Arche ¡ª who was a carriage driver at that time ¡ª along with her problem just because he did let her ride the carriage to escape. The nobleman who became obsessed with Melina died because he became crazy with her; he abused himself with drugs, specifically with Dark Tears that let the person experience his inner desire. He died just two days after Melina escaped the brothel she was working to. The father of the nobleman, a Marquis in the Cassiopeia med Melina and did everything to capture her, but Arche, who helped her unintentionally was dragged along the way. Normally, it would be the execution that awaited them, but the Marquis wanted them to suffer in their lifetime, so he rather enved and then branded them with something called a "Red Mark". This caused Melina and Arche to have their human rights ¡ª that even some ves had ¡ª to be revoked; it means that they became the lowest of the lowest kind of people in that certain Marquis'' territory. In the beginning, Arche pleaded to the Marquis that he didn''t know anything or never knew the person named Melina, but to no avail, his words, as amoner, just left the Marquis'' ears. Then, Arche, after some time, looked at Melina and felt pity, then that pity turned intopassion, and thatpassion turned into love. Through the years, Melina and Arche developed feelings for each other, especially because of the hardships they faced together, and then one day, Melina became pregnant with Russell, then the year after that, she became pregnant with Freya. They told their story to Russell and Freya when they began to understand worldly situations or some things; they admitted that it was not nned, but they were grateful that they were born at that time. With their "Red Mark", their son and daughter also inherited it; their rights to ess even the simplest of things became restricted; Russell and Freya became aughing stock as the son and daughter of the filthy prostitute and a mere carriage driver; they became the subjects of bullying by other nobles that visited the Marquis'' territory. Then one day, Old Cal came to the Masquis and simply bought them, not because they were pity, but because Old Cal thought they were useful. Old Cal was just a wandering merchant at that time who had a very good rtionship with the Marquis; it was because of him that they escape that hellhole after 10 years. It''s been 6 to 7 years already since Old Cal took care of them; he was a very kind merchant, who became a small cksmithingpany owner due to his diligence and kindness to his clients, granting him a few investors. "It was hell..." Russell muttered in the air as the cold wind weakly shook his in clothes. He''s d that Old Cal bought them, and he was not the kind of usual fat merchant who only thought about profit or money. Although Russell became a billionaire, he knew that he wouldn''t be able to buy something that could correct or change his family''s past, and that''s why he was deeply grateful for Old Cal''s existence. "Sigh... It''s been 17 years since I came into this world... No, it''s 10 years... But, that''s not right..." He muttered as he recalled one of the mysteries regarding his reincarnation. Chapter 131 The Mysteries Of "His" Reincarnation [2] October 16, 2052 Ten years ago, inside the barn that was being taken care of by Melina and Arche, Russell and Freya''s parents. Wearing tattered clothes befitting of their social ss as ves, Melina and Arche, together with their son, Russell ¡ª who was 6 years old at that time; and daughter, Freya ¡ª who was 5 years old at that time, was waiting until the clock hit 12:00 A.M. since it would be Russell''s 7th birthday. After a few minutes of waiting, with the help of the System that Melina and Arche possessed, they monitored the time with the absence of a physical clock; then it hit 12:00 A.M., signifying the start of the next day, October 17, 2052. Melina, Arche, and the innocent Freya looked at Russell, waiting for his response. ... [System Downloading... 1%... 2%... 33%... 99%.] [Congrattions on turning 7 Earth Years Old!] [You have be a ''yer''!] [Generating Status Window...] [Awakening with the following professions...] [Generating the yer''s Rank...] [The yer''s Data will be generated shortly!] [The yer''s Data will be summarized due to underlying circumstances.] ... At that time, the memories from his previous life flooded inside the mind of a 7-year-old Russell as though the information was being forcefully inserted. At first, he thought that he had "Transmigrated" ¡ª that his soul was transferred from his previous life to the body of this young boy named Russell Moon. But, within him, he strongly believed that he was "Reincarnated". Before he acquired the memories from his previous life the moment he was granted the System, his memories of being born, and being able to talk and walk were all blurred; just like a normal child who couldn''t remember everything in his childhood. He also only discovered that he was reincarnated inside his unpublished novel, "The Forgotten Swordsman of Ruined Star" because of the existence of the "Encyclopedia of the Emergence" that was written by Emmanuel Lyncoster. He got ahold of such a book after a few months since Old Cal had bought them from the certain Marquis from the Cassiopeia, and it was the time since he started to be peculiar in others'' eyes; a kid whose hobby was to read newspapers, news in the inte, and another different kind of books that had something to do with the world such as geography. The name of the country, Cassiopeia, and the "Red Mark"bel for very weren''t enough for him at that time to realize that he was reincarnated in his unpublished novel, but upon realizing that he really was reincarnated inside his own unpublished novel, he knew that there were mysteries hidden to him ¡ª simply because he discerned that the moment he discovered that he was living inside his unpublished novel, he became an extra or an anomaly himself. Russell had experienced working as a ve; being bullied because of the social ss he and his parents was under, but... even though that was the case, he feltplete just because he was doing such work with his family; cleaning the barn, feeding the horses, cutting some grass, and anything that a ve stationed in a farm did. He nevercked money in his previous life, rather, hecked connections and bonds. The reason he became a shut-in and gradually developed Social Anxiety in his previous life was that he was humiliated by a woman, histest partner, at a party with his friends. The worst part about it was that the woman cheated in front of him at that time; the people he thought of as friends were snakes with fake golden scales who just wanted his money, then the moment they found someone who could satisfy their needs, they quickly changed their circles. It was ultimately unnecessary. His supposed-to-be friends could have just not said anything against him; his partner could have just broken up with him before she flirted with another man. He couldn''t understand humanity''s pleasure derived from humiliating someone; he thought that he may becking, which gradually declined his self-esteem; he became cautious of what other people thought of him, causing him to barely leave his apartment, which gradually caused him to develop Social Anxiety that he waster diagnosed with. Social Anxiety was hell... A hell that only exists within one''s mind ¡ª an enemy that was the destroyer of social life. ... With his mother, father, and younger sister, he began to feel what it was like to have connections and bonds again... And this time, with a familial one. That''s why he never thought that having a family in this world was a treasure he could never ask for. It was for this reason that Russell would do anything to keep his family from harm and catastrophe that would befall the world in the future. In the same way, it''s for this reason that he never sought or delved into the "mysteries" of his reincarnation; for him, it wouldn''t matterpared to having aplete family. ... Presently, October 18, 2062, just after his birthday passed. "But it seems like I am being pulled to it, and I can''t escape it..." He remembered the circumstances that were out of the story if he based it on his unpublished novel. The meeting with the Goddess of Night; being entrusted with the mysterious Egg; being Her champion; Samantha''s Stigma; Amelie and Amery''s existence; Artorious Hall''s behavior, and so on. There were too many that already deviated from what he knew, and he thought that he couldn''t deny it anymore... ''That my reincarnation is the number 1 deviation that happened in this world.'' He wondered if this world would still exist if he was never reincarnated. Apart from the above-mentioned arguably strong points why he thought that he was "Reincarnated and not "Transmigrated" was because of the System function that only he might know. Since he discovered that the world he reincarnated to was simr to his unpublished novel, he thought of the significant function in the System that he added on a whim just because he was bored while he was writing at that time. ... "System, open the Cosmic Question function." Cosmic Question was the hidden System''s function that he created in his unpublished novel; it would give him the right to ask the System any questions at least 4 times. This question and answer could be browsed again by opening the hidden function, and the answer from the System would be thorough. [A password is needed to ess the Hidden Function: Cosmic Question.] [Speak the password.] [Password: ???] "Hmm... I-" "...Oppa? What are you doing here?" He almost jumped from the roof upon hearing the voice of his younger sister who was peeking at him from the window of her new bedroom; the two of them had separate, but neighboring bedrooms. "F-Freya? How long have you been there?" Russell asked after heposed himself; from lying down, he then sat on the roof. "I just saw you just now... I also can''t sleep. Oppa, can I join you there? I like the cold night." Freya said solemnly; even though Russell didn''t reply yet, she opened the window of her bedroom and quietly jumped on the roof. Russell looked at his younger sister, who sat beside him. "What''s on your mind...?" He then asked though he had an idea about it. "Tsk. Oppa, I know that you know what''s bothering me." Freya spoke with the same solemn tone she previously had; her voice seemed to harmonize with the tranquility of the night, and the serenity of the bluish moon that was illuminating this part of the world. Russell didn''t reply, instead, he waited for the next words of his younger sister. He felt that his younger sister just needed someone to listen to her. "To be honest, I''m scared, Oppa. I don''t know why, but that time... When I killed one of the guards that were guarding Arthur, I thought that I would throw up; I thought that my heart would beat faster; I thought my breathing would be heavy, but it didn''t. "All I thought about was the unfairness of the situation; he might really have the family he was talking about, that''s why he begged us to spare him, but when he admitted that Arthur ordered them to kill us, he might have never thought that we also have a family that''s waiting for us. "I''m scared... Because I killed someone, but rarely felt sympathy. "Oppa... I''m about to turn 16 in two months, I wonder if such a person in my age should have a hand that''s been tainted by blood. "It''s hard for me because I felt cold. I cried at that time because life seems unfair, but it would never be fair, right?" Freya said solemnly; she hugged her knees as her gaze was cast at the bluish moon that was emanating Mana, causing its illumination to be amplified. Russell ¡ª who noticed his younger sister stopped speaking ¡ª fell into deep thought before he softly spoke. "That''s what it means to be gray. We are not good people, but we are not bad either; we are hanging in the middle of a scale, and would only lean to the side based on how we are treated. "It would be the kind of resolve we would need to maintain for the future." Freya faintly smiled at her older brother''s words before she spoke in curiosity, and yfully. "Oppa, you really didn''t know the future, right? Well, I thought about it for some time. "Knowing something like the future will surelye at a great cost if it''s possible. "You also told us about Victoria''s Constetion, which has the ability to peek into the future for a few seconds; I and Amelie peeked into her Status Window, and saw that it''s something that should not be used without a good cause. "And your Constetion is the Goddess of Night, right? She didn''t have to do anything with the future based on Her Cosmic Title. "Well, that''s just my guess. Heh heh. Don''t mind me, Oppa." Russell pondered the words that Freya had spoken, especially regarding the second sentence. ''Comes at a great cost, huh... When I think about it, the cost of knowing the future would be the lives of the people that would be taken away in the future. ''By knowing what would happen and not having the capacity to totally stop it would be my punishment.'' "You really like guessing, huh?" Russell only spoke those words after some thoughts surfaced in his mind; he didn''t confirm nor deny the premise that he knew the future. "Well, Oppa, to be honest, I don''t care if you know the future or not, or even how you know it. It''s just that this world is something that''s full of unknowns. "I wonder how''s life before the Emergence happened? Was life in the Old World happy? "Sigh... Oppa, I feel like I''m bing like you when ites to overthinking." Freya spoke with superficial solemness in her tone, but deep inside, she was grateful at this moment for everything that had happened. Russell scoffed at thest sentence of words that came out of his younger sister. He was just about to reply to her when Freya recalled something. "Oppa, do you remember the first time we went to the Nether Realm? The headless woman at the top of the spire of her castle helped us go back to the real world by suggesting that I should make a contract with a familiar ording to my Unique Skill''s condition." Freya randomly said as if she recalled something. "Yes, I remember, what about it?" Russell asked in wonder, forgetting what he was about to say earlier. "Uhmm... About that, Oppa. The headless woman asked for something in exchange for her help." "Huh...? Help...? Why didn''t you tell me before? What did she ask for?" Russell casually asked, just wanting to listen to the seemingly random words of Freya. "Well, she specifically told me that I should only tell you about it after your birthday... It''s strange, right? Maybe it''s a Nether Creature thing. Haha." Freyaughed as she recalled the abnormality of the behavior and physical appearance of the Nether Creatures. Russell ¡ª who heard about the strange request of the headless woman ¡ª pricked up his ears before he asked in a curious tone. Without waiting for him to respond, Freya told him about the condition or favor that she needed to fulfill in exchange for the help they received at that time. "Oppa, the headless woman told me that you are the one who would have ess to what she wanted, you know. "Ah! I clearly remember now! "She said that you should give her something to read, specifically the book titled, The Forgotten Swordsman of the Ruined Star." Chapter 132 The Mysteries Of "His" Reincarnation [3] "...W-what did you say?" Russell''s deep blue eyes dted upon hearing the words that came out of his younger sister''s mouth. He asked her again to make sure if his auricr sense was on the right track or if it was dysfunctional. He looked at Freya in surprise and disbelief, waiting for her answer. "Tsk. Why are you looking at me like that, Oppa? I said that the headless woman just wanted to read a book titled [The Forgotten Swordsman of the Ruined Star]. I don''t know what would happen if I don''t pay back the favor, so can you help me get that book." Confirming the words of his younger sister, Russell almost fainted at the ludicrous reveal that he never thought possible this early in the story. Trying topose himself, he casually asked his younger sister. "...Is there anything else that headless woman had said?" He clearly remembered the peculiar appearance of the headless woman ¡ª holding two women''s heads with different hair and eye colors ¡ª who was floating on the top of the spire of her presumed dpidated. "Nothing remarkable, why? What''s that book anyway?" "Sigh... Oppa, I''m getting sleepy. Can I sleep here while you look after me?" The howling cold winds of the night passed by him and his now lying younger sister, who didn''t wait for his response as she quickly fell asleep after saying those words. At that moment, a familiar sound rang in his ears. ... [Freya Moon has fallen asleep due to the Goddess of Night''s power.] [Your consciousness will start to fade.] [You will enter the Cosmic Dream under the permission of the Goddess of Night.] [Memories of the Truth will be partially unlocked.] [The Goddess of Night greets you btedly, ''Happy Birthday''.] Before Russell could process or question anything regarding the cryptic System messages, his consciousness faded, sending him into deep sleep physically. ... Waking up, he nced around and realized that he was not on the roof of their new home, instead, he found himself in a very familiar ce ¡ª where the encounter with the Goddess of Night happened. The Hidden Dungeon, ''Oldest Root of Yggdrasil'' had its usual atmosphere; cold, but tranquil; haunting but serene. Russell darted around and saw the familiar roots with a size that was simr to a huge tree trunk, threaded together as though it was skillfully weaved. "System, what''s happening?" He asked because there was nothing inside the Hidden Dungeon apart from himself, the roots, the illumination of the mysterious light through the roots-made ceiling, and the stone table altar situated in the middle of the circr hall. He never received a response, which could only mean one thing ¡ª the Cosmic Dream was not bound by the System. Scurrying around, with various thoughts surfacing in his mind, he was jolted awake by the sound from the entrance of the Hidden Dungeon. "What?" At that moment, Russell''s mouth was agape at the sight that screened in his vision. He saw himself, specifically, his self from the past, a few months ago, when he went on a journey to acquire the Seed of Chaos. This Russell from a few months ago couldn''t see him. This puny man with nothing but knowledge from his previous life was scurrying around, trying to find the Seed of Chaos while muttering curses since he couldn''t find it. Seconds, then minutes flew by, this Russell was prostrating himself due to the Goddess of Night''s presence; not yet after Her materialization, but only through System''s message. The Russell of the present faintly smiled at his past self; he didn''t mind the phenomenon he was currently in. ''She can''t see me... This is a memory.'' He tried to recall the bits of information before he was transported here, at least his soul. Then, after some time passed, the past Russell received the mysterious Egg, the Goddess of Night approached him and branded him with the Symbol of Night before he suffered from the loss of consciousness. The next scene that yed in front of the present Russell was more than enough... To shake his entire being and topletely pull him to traverse the mysteries and unveil everything about his reincarnation. "No... T-this can''t be!" He clearly heard the words spoken by the Goddess of Night while he was unconscious, with his head on Herp. Though it was spoken using an ancientnguage he couldn''t understand, and wouldn''t be able to understand by any interpreter, Russell seemed to somewhat decipher the meaning behind it. "This isn''t real... There''s no way. W-wake me up!" His scream reverberated throughout the Hidden Dungeon before he woke up, but this time, he was somewhere unfamiliar which he never knew anything about. ... In front of a majestic pce, where a dark blue aura or Chaos Miasma was excessively lingering in the air, Russell stood. His breathing turned rag, not because of the loss of Stamina, but rather because he was panicking due to the previous scene he saw with his deep blue eyes. Without moving, he scrutinized the exterior of the majestic pce. What he noticed the most was the purple aura that was lingering in the air, mixing with Chaos Miasma. It was something he had no idea about. The purple and dark blue aura was swirling together, intertwining with each other as though fate had meant it to be. Apart from the swirls of the aura, he noticed a "keep" on top of the pce. There were also two spires on either side, a gigantic door with mysterious rune symbols, and long, wide stairs that seemed to be walked only by majestic beings. Before he could try to take a walk up to the stairs that leads to the gigantic door, his vision glitched, and at that moment, he noticed that he was now standing at the end of the stairs. The gigantic door was now behind him, and he was subconsciously looking down from where he was just a moment ago. Tap. Tap. He heard a tapping sound from behind him, this time, it wasn''t the sound of someone tapping a certain human technology he usually heard in his daily life, but rather, the sound of light footsteps. ''T-this... it''s not only from a single individual!'' He attempted to look back, but before he could even see the people or beings that were walking in his direction, his vision started to fade. ''H-hey! W-wait-!'' ... Alone inside her dormitory room, Samantha was sitting on her bed, unable to sleep this past midnight when a chilling wind invaded her room through the window. Samantha spoke to the dignified womanly voice in her head that had apanied her for a long time. The dignified womanly voice spoke, but Samantha quickly respond. Samantha pressed for an answer. ... In the Chaos Training Grounds. "Amery... I''m getting sleepy." Amelie ¡ª who asked to be transported to the Chaos Training Grounds before Russell and Freya went to their new home ¡ª spoke with a sign of drowsiness. "Then, you should sleep. Why are you even telling me that? It''s not like I''ll be able to leave you alone here without Russell." Amery replied casually as she drank a mouthful of water she bought when she asionally went back to Earth to purchase necessities. "Wow, you be talkative now. Yawn." Amelie replied yfully, but before Amery could re at her fiercely, Amelie fell asleep on one of the benches. At that moment, she heard something fall from the dark sky, then a figure walked out of it. Amery became on guard as she reached out for her sword. ''This is not normal.'' As far as she knew, this ce was only essible to them. "Drop your weapon, Daughter of the Blood Monarch." [The God of cksmith, Vulcan, has revealed himself.] Amery''s deep ck eyes widened at the unusual way of wording that the System used in describing the godly presence in front of her. ... "H-hello?" Not sensing any animosity from the godly being that appeared in the Chaos Training Grounds, Amery reluctantly greeted. She scrutinized the dwarf man with a stout body, long gray hair, zing red-orange eyes, and a long gray beard. "I think it is time for you to have this, Daughter of the Blood Monarch." Without any pleasantries, Vulcan took something out of thin air. It''s a thin, crimson notebook with various unknown rune inscriptions on its cover and back. But, strangely, Amery understood what was written on its cover. "Diary of the Blood Monarch ¨C Alicia Blight..." ... After Russell disappeared from the end of the long, wide stairs; not being able to see the faces of the beings walking towards him, he was now transported to a ce simr to a Great Hall of a castle, but with the absence of a throne. ''T-this is not a memory anymore, but a vision!'' He thought, feeling certain about his intuition. As he nced around, he saw two things that were situated in the middle of the Great Hall. There were two coffins; one was emanating a purple aura, and the other was emanating a deep blue aura ¡ª not the usual dark blue. These coffins had mysterious rune symbols inscribed on their lids. He started to walk towards the two coffins, he thought that he would be transported again to another scenario, but surprisingly, this time, he managed to nce inside the coffins that looked ancient. ''There''s no one inside?'' Various thoughts seemed to mess up his mind as he subconsciously looked at the floor of the Great Hall, and this time, he was transported to a ce simr to a wide basement, just below the two coffins above. His messy thoughts turned messier as he saw other numerous coffins. These coffins had peculiar characteristics. One of the coffins had miniature white angel wings protruding on its sides, but there was a scythe symbol on its lid; one had a miniature zing yellow sun on its horizontal bottom; one had a transparent half as though it was continuously under some kind of magic; one with a flowing dark river inside the coffin that seemed endless, and one with mathematical coordinates as though it''s a product of geometry. Russell was about to count the number of peculiar coffins when he saw "three" figures appear out of nowhere. He recognized the two of them. ''The Goddess of Night and the Lady of the Shaded Spade, but who''s the other one?'' "Daedessa and Daedeya." The Goddess of Night spoke; Russell didn''t know who was who, but he knew that She was speaking to the Lady of the Shaded Spade, and the other being. "The will of the Night is absolute." "The will of the Night is absolute." As if understanding the intent of the Goddess of Night, the two beings called Daedessa and Daedeya spoke at the same time in reverence. At that moment, the numerous peculiar coffins turned into normal-looking ones as the air vibrated intensely. Mysterious power took ce and transformed the coffins, causing their peculiarity to disappear. "#######" The next words of the Goddess of Night rang in his ears, but before he could react, he was sent back to reality. ... [The Cosmic Dream has ended.] [The power of the Goddess of Night has been greatly expelled.] [The Goddess of Night will go into slumber!] [The Goddess of Night smiles faintly at you, and advises you to "never" use the Cosmic Question again.] [The Goddess of Night fell into slumber!] [The Egg expresses its great sorrow.] [You have received a Star Quest!] [The mysterious powers of the Symbol of Night have been fully unlocked!] [Your Status Window has been updated!] ... Russell opened his deep blue eyes, uncontroble tears escaped from them for reasons unknown to him. He reached his hand towards the still starry night sky as he muttered in solemness. "Who am I?" + ¡ª END OF VOLUME 1: The Familiar yet Different World. ¡ª Author''s Note: Thank you for reaching this chapter! I hope you will continue supporting me, and finish this story with me. We still have a very long way to go, Readers! Chapter 133 Existential Crisis Under the deep night sky where the countless nexus of stars shimmered above the gigantic bluish moon, Russell, lying on the roof of their new home, was dazed ¡ª feeling that his world just came crashing down, in an instant at that. The sounds of System notifications were neglected. Tears of unknown causes kept flowing down from Russell''s gleaming deep blue eyes as he wandered into the sudden and unforeseen circumstances. It stirred his entire being. "Who am I...?" His raspy voice gently mixed itself along with the cold winds, dancing through the night. He was not sure if the winds were celebrating his identity crisis or moving as it was supposed to be. ncing at his soundly sleeping younger sister, who was about to wake up soon, he questioned himself if she and his parents were really his family ¡ª a very dangerous thought for someone like him who valued them the most in this world, more than any riches the world could offer. Russell''s mind was still nk, like an empty sea where cerulean water was necessary for it to truly function. ''What do I do...?'' Not knowing what to do, hey on the roof of their new home. It was made of gray galvanized iron sheets of the best quality. With his back against the roof, he felt the cold on his back, with the roof being made from something that was a good thermal conductor. Even though that''s the case, it wasn''tparable to the cold he was feeling inside, like an empty shell pervaded by cold winds, and had itself covered, trapping the chills inside. It wasn''t the visions that were shown to him that were making him feel empty, but rather the memory of his, appearing in the Hidden Dungeon, The Oldest Root of Yggdrasil. He could not care less about the mysterious coffins with peculiar characteristics, the mystifying words of the Goddess of Night delivered to the existences named Daedessa and Daedeya, and Her cryptic words before he woke up in reality. ''How is that possible...?'' He thought inwardly. Many questions were appearing in his mind like an assembly of his brain cells had waited to work together for this moment ¡ª to form numerous questions about himself. Cough. Cough. Subconsciously letting out a cough, he fell into sleep. Maybe he was hoping that everything he had seen was all just a dream. Maybe he was hoping that it was not real and that he would continue to live his life as an unimportant individual in this world ¡ª who just wanted to be stronger so he could protect his family. But the cruelty of fate was hammered into his very being; his spirit dimmed, his soul crushed, his mind stormed, his body enfeebled, and his identity questioned. The depressed sleeping man, when he woke up, would have no choice but to face the mysteries waiting to be unveiled from the shadows of an untold story. *** "Mom... he barely eats his meal." Freya worriedly spoke after she checked on her older brother who caught the flu ¡ª the only recurring mild disease after the influence of the Constetions had been strengthened, specifically caused by the Constetion of the Queen of Etheria. More than a week had passed since Russell suffered from the flu, just after he had woken up from the mysterious visions that were shown to him through something called the Cosmic Dream. "Let him be... There must be a lot in his mind right now." Hearing the words of her mother: Melina Moon, Freya recalled when they were still children ¡ª not that they were old enough to be called a true adult. Russell, around 7 to 10 years old, was a lot like him presently. He barely talked as though he considered people as beings not worth conversing with. "But Mom... it''s been more than a week." Freya pressed the matter due to her deep concern. "Freya, your mother is right. Just give him some space, Okay?" Her father supported his wife as he should. Freya sighed at the obscure biased from his father before she went back to her bedroom. *** Many unfathomable things had transpired after Russell''s vision through the Cosmic Dream, but one of the most significant changes was the certain Announcement that appeared in everyone''s eyes at 6:01 A.M., just after a few hours since he started to question his existence. [Universal Announcement!] [The System will undergo a reboot!] [The Tower of Growth will not be essible for the time being!] [Approximate Reboot Duration: 336 hours.] [Rebooting: 1%... 2%...] It was the first time that such an announcement, with its prefix "universal", appeared. The only announcement of this scale was only broadcasted prior to the cataclysmic event or the Emergence that devastated the world. ¡ª BREAKING NEWS: Universal vs. Astronomical Announcement? Which isrger in scale? ¡ª BREAKING NEWS: System''s Reboot? Is the System faulty all along? ¡ª BREAKING NEWS: Changing of times! The System can not be browsed! Is this what life looks like in the Old World? ¡ª BREAKING NEWS: The "Church of the System" has released a statement that the System just rested for the betterment of humanity. ¡ª BREAKING NEWS: The Obelisk Organization has released a formal statement, telling every yer ¡ª civilian, adventurer, and affiliated to calm down. Russell, lying on his bed like a dead man with no purpose or will, read through his smartwatch the news that trended almost two weeks ago. Due to his mental and emotional breakdown, along with the System''s Reboot that should have happened a few years from now after the st" Close Mystery Tower opened, Russell couldn''t browse the System messages that he received. He felt like he was back in his previous life ¡ª if that was really something that existed ¡ª when something like the System and Status Windows didn''t exist. He felt powerless, like a puny human being who chose to live a life of misery. *** "Hup-!" Rumia Flora and Elizabeth von Etherion were now staying in one of the vis that thetter owned. The two were having a sparring match because their supposed-to-be battle against the yer death row prisoners was on hold because of the unprecedented System''s Reboot ¡ª something that never urred in Emergence history. The [yer]''s overall powers didn''t disappear as the System was rebooting. Unique Skills, Skills, Traits, and Authorities ¡ª if the individual had a contract with a Constetion, were still avable for use. The reason why the Queen of Nereia and the Queen of Etheria postponed the death row executions was simply due to their concern about the abnormality of the circumstances. "Easy now, Rumia. Are you mad or what?" Elizabeth smiled, parrying Rumia''s 4-meter whip ¡ª Whip of the rd (Legendary), her Personal Weapon that she conjured during their first Virtual War under the courtesy of Professor Murak of their yer Physical Education ss. "I''m not mad, I''m just concerned, like what''s happening to the world?" Elizabeth, with an unrelenting smile, scoffed at Rumia''s words before she added: "It''s not like we know every little thing that''s happening throughout the world, right?" *** "Son, your contract-making with the Constetion will be dyed because of unknown circumstances." Leon heard his father, Draxian ¡ª the head of the Obreyon Family ¡ª spoke casually with a mix of firmness in his tone as he reached for a cooked high-quality steak, imported from Cassiopeia ¡ª that was well-known for sodas. "It''s okay, father. I can wait." Mira, sitting on one of the high-back chairs, listened to the conversation. A shred of jealousy was lurking in her heart; however, she was not someone who would let such matters truly affect her will to be stronger. ''I hope the System''s Reboot will be of great help somehow!'' She cheerfully and excitedly thought as she quietly ate her meal ced on the long, mottled, luxurious-looking table. *** "You... You are being rough. What''s the matter?" "I notice it, too. But it seems you are venting something against us." Anya voiced her thoughts which was followed by Jiho. These two were speaking to Samantha while their asses fell on the floor of the training ground in one of the vacation houses of the Amasawa family. Samantha seemed off the mood since the knowledge she had learned from the being in her head. She mercilessly beat the two as though she was cutting a few ragdolls. Samantha didn''t go back home, instead, with incertitude, she asked her father if she could stay with Anya during the short vacation. Jiho then did the same by asking Chancellor Alexander, his fatherly figure, based on what other people perceived them to be, at least. "You two are improving greatly, keep it up." Brushing off the little rants of the two, she gave them apliment instead. "What''s the final party lineup for the Tower of Growth raid?" Anya asked instead, she didn''t press on the mood of Samantha since she ignored their questions ¡ª meaning that Samantha had no n in answering such questions. "Rumia and Elizabeth will form a party, together with their teammates in the first Virtual War." Samantha stated the information she gathered, or more like spilled by Rumia to her, like a woman who couldn''t shut her mouth ¡ª it''s not like it mattered to her, but she found it somehow annoying. "That would form an 8-person party. I wonder who would be the additional 2. Well, it''s not like you need a maximum count of yers to ess the Tower of Growth." "About that... Elizabeth invited me, but I declined because I have prior talks with you." Jiho reluctantly spoke after Anya. "It doesn''t matter. What matters is getting stronger. So, stand up and let me beat the two of you up." Anya frowned at Samantha''s words, but they firmly obliged ¡ª with different thoughts flowing in their minds. *** "Sir Britz, what''s the job?" "Hey! Czerina, just a quick errand." Sir Britz or the Shadow Crusader, that ran into Russell and Amelie when they raided the ck Cut Pub in the Western Olympia ¡ª in the area of influence of the Shadow Guild, spoke while being intoxicated by alcohol this early in the morning. The name he had spoken, Czerina, was the one who managed to kill Russell through her Unique Skill: Strike Transmission ¡ª while wearing a hotel maid dress at that. "What''s the order, Sir?" Sitting on one of the stools in front of the pub counter, she asked. "Give this money aspensation to the family who lost someone who''s working for the Shadow Guild. His name''s Algar, his family lives in that certain region of Etheria. You should take a Teleporter with you, so it''ll be done quickly." Czerina had a disapproving look, processing what she heard. ''Why do I need to get through this?!'' She grumbled in her mind, thinking it was better for her to just remained as a maid instead. "I know that look, but don''t worry. It''s only one. To be honest, two men died, but the other one didn''t have any family to go back to." "Died? What''s the cause?" Wanting to know the reason behind her seemed mentally taxing task, she asked, at least. "Strayed Dungeon, handled by Thorn of Rose." She didn''t pry any further. Taking the suitcase of money Sir Britz ced on the table, Czerina beckoned a Teleporter under the Shadow Guild who was having a good time in the ck Cat Pub. *** In a certain region of Etheria, Czerina, along with the Teleporter, arrived in farnd where numerous fine-looking red-in-exterior barns were situated. There were fresh and aesthetic fruits and vegetables of various kinds, as well as herbivore animals roaming in peace ¡ª something that humanity seemed to long for, but was unable to live in for a long time. They managed to quickly find the right ce due to Algar''s personal information that was required to be part of the Shadow Guild ¡ª or any other guild. Knock. Knock. Czerina, knocking a few times on a wooden, but somewhat sturdy door ¡ª from a civilian yer''s perspective. With the click and intermittently creaking sound, the door opened, revealing a mother figure and two children ¡ª a young boy that was around 4 to 5 years old, and a young girl that was around 6 to 7 years old. "Hello, ma''am. I know it''s early in the morning, but we are from the Shadow Guild, and we are tasked to bring thepensation... I''m sorry for your loss. Please, take this money." Czerina, who wanted to end the errand right away, just exined a few things regarding what happened before she and the Teleporter bid goodbye. Vanishing from the farnd, the mother and her children had a look of wonder painted on their innocent faces. "Mom... Who''s Algar?" "Right Mom...?" The young boy and young girl asked in confusion, with innocent wondrous expressions. "...I don''t know either." The mother seriously and perplexedly replied, holding a suitcase full of money. Chapter 134 Temporary Goodbye Two weeks had passed since the beginning of Russell''s existential crisis, and it was time for the end duration of the System Reboot. The System Reboot was the greatest change that Russell had written in his unpublished novel since he recognized his mistakes when he was writing it. He didn''t rewrite it, but rather told himself that it was feasible to change things along the way ¡ª not that most information was faulty since the Untouched Elements in his novel "never" affected the story until its very end. "In the world of Fantasy, everything can work." The sentence he reminded himself of before he had written the System Reboot, but this was reality. A reality he was reincarnated in; he who ran from the mysteries behind it, but pulled in unveiling it ¡ª like a man deprived of his free will. *** [99.9%...] [Universal Announcement!] [The System Reboot has ended.] [With mysterious reasons, the st" Close Mystery Tower''s eternal power has seeped out and spread throughout the Great Universe.] [The cog of time has been disrupted!] [The Sea of Mana that is ethereally flowing has been consolidated due to the power of the st" Close Mystery Tower!] [These will be the changes that will take ce.] [...Fortitude.] [...Swift.] [...Intelligence.] [...Attributes.] [...Sacrificial Altar.] [...Golden Stats.] [...Main Stats.] There was too much information and change that Emmanuel Lyncoster would certainly have a hard time wrapping his head around it. *** Russell ¡ª with every energy or will to live he has left ¡ª let the System''s feminine voice speak in his head. One of the changes was that the yer wouldn''t need to browse the System''s message anymore to know the information, rather, it would ring in the yer''s head, automatically processing the information as though everyone had a futuristic Artificial Intelligence that could tell them everything without even bothering to read it. Though this information, especially the important ones, would have a limited time inside the yer''s head before it would be forgotten ¡ª that time, the yer must acquire other means of remembering everything, and that''s where Emmanuel Lyncoster came in. And when a yer browsed the System, instead of nkly looking in the air like before, other yers could now see a light blue, but the blurred holographic screen in front of the yer who was doing the browsing. Though, the information wouldn''t be able to see by others unless it was willingly shared by the yer through any way of sharing like having a formal party made with the System''s function. After some time of the seemingly endless announcement, including the messages he received upon the end of his visions, Russell sat on his bed. Even after two weeks, he couldn''t ept what he had witnessed ¡ª something that truly crushed his identity, it drilled into his soul. - Pathetic! Nothing will change even if you mumble like that! - Oppa... stop being pathetic... It''s not about ourselves... think of a way so that our family will be out of this fucking mess! Out of nowhere, he seemed to remember the words of his younger sister, Freya, when he med himself after they were unexpectedly caught by Artorious Hall. "I can''t go on like this..." He almost jumped in fright upon hearing a very familiar voice that left an impression on him. It echoed in his head, and it wasn''t the System''s girly voice. "G-Goddess...? I-I thought you are in slumber?" "I don''t know what to do anymore. I''m lost. Who am I? Why it happened just after my birthday? Are Freya and my parents even my real family? Please, enlighten me..." ? The Goddess of Night''s soft voice echoed in Russell''s head, which gradually calmed him down in a very strange way ¡ª like it was a voice he longed for a long time.