《Chronicles of the Survivor》


 Prologue - I

    Prologue - I


    Alexander King was an ordinary boy. There was nothing extraordinary about him, at least in the ¡®real¡¯ world. He wasn¡¯t particularly handsome, nor was he extraordinarily smart. He was the average of the average.


    The King Family, in the year 2035, is considered one of the richest families of the world. Alicia King was the CEO of the weapons manufacturing company ¡®Ouroboros¡¯, while her husband, Rex King was a renowned scientist working under the technology division of her company. That was just Alex¡¯s parents alone. Alex¡¯s twin sister Sophia King was a prodigy in music and well known worldwide, having earned a small fortune for herself by the age of 12. At the age of 16, she already had a huge fan following and was considered a pop-star.


    Some may think that one may feel pressured with having successful parents and a famous sister. However, in reality, Alexander King was indifferent. His parents loved him, his sister tolerated him, like any other sibling did. He was living the ordinary life, as ordinary as it could be that is. He liked it that way.


    Alex had lived an uneventful life. He had the ordinary high school experience, had a good number of friends, got good grades and played tennis on the weekends to stay fit. He was close to graduating and had already been accepted into a college of his liking. However, Alex¡¯s plan for life, which had proceeded smoothly so far, came to an abrupt halt. It came in the typical mix of a pretty girl, a truck and broken spine.


    It happened when Alex was on his way home from school. He was waiting at the traffic signal for his best friend Marcus to pick him up when he saw her. A girl as tall as Alex, about 5¡¯8¡±, glossy black hair, with a petite build was crossing the street towards him. She was preoccupied with something on her phone and had her earphones plugged in her ears. Alex recognized her instantly.


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    Hayley Caldwell and Alexander King could be considered childhood friends, they had known each other since kindergarten and had become fast friends over a batch of crayons. Recently, however, their relationship had become a little strained, mostly to do with the fact that Hayley¡¯s first and new boyfriend Arthur Weiss, had a strong dislike for the average Alex.


    Hayley, while looking at her phone, suddenly froze. Alex was puzzled, even more so when he noticed the look of horror and tragic sadness on Hayley¡¯s face. However, he didn¡¯t dwell on it much longer, no he couldn¡¯t. Alex saw a huge truck barreling towards Hayley, the driver honking on his horn madly. But, Hayley stood rooted at the spot, her earphones cancelling out all the noise. Alex panicked, and he rushed towards her. Everything that happened next was a blur for both Alex and Hayley.


    For Hayley, she suddenly saw someone, a friend she recognized as one of the reasons for her current horror and sadness, rushing towards her. She felt anger overwhelm her and was about to lash out when Alex practically dove into her and pushed her away. All she felt next was the hard concrete and the sound of screeching tires, the shrill scream of a woman and a voice she vaguely recognized screaming, ¡°ALEX!!!¡±


    What Alex felt was vastly different compared to Hayley. The rush of adrenaline, the sprint to push her out of the way, the truck hitting him and acute and scorching hot pain before blackness overcame him.

 Prologue - II

    Prologue - II


    Alexander King had a secret. He was the mysterious ¡®Guild Master¡¯ of the famous ¡°Vagus Draco¡±. In other words, he was a veteran VRMMORPG player. What¡¯s more, he was a fairly notorious one. Vagus Draco was a Guild that did as they pleased, often to the dismay of many player-killers and ¡®evil¡¯ Guilds. The Guild consisted of five members at the core called ¡®Elders¡¯ and then the Guild Master and Vice Guild Master. These seven in all consisted of the upper echelons of the Guild. There were many other members, usually selected through a vigorous selection method or personal connections with the upper echelons. Vagus Draco was a Guild named after its founder and Guild Master. It was a Latin name which translated to ¡°Wandering Dragon¡±. However, the public referred to it by another name, ¡°Unpredictable Dragon¡±. That name itself hints towards the ¡®popularity¡¯ of the Guild.


    VRMMORPGs had been around for more than a decade and had made many improvements over the course of the years. In 2020, the first Virtual Reality game ¡°War of Gods¡± had made its debut, guaranteeing over 70% realism. From there, the technology gained other applications and improved over time.


    The world had made big leaps in the medical field of neurology and psychology because of virtual reality. Gaming itself had undergone a revolution unlike any other. The world had exploded with VR capsules and the likes. As a decade had passed, VR capsules had become cheaper and more accessible to the populace. War itself had changed its face as country¡¯s found VR¡¯s to be perfect ¡®battlefields¡¯ to solve their problems.


    POV ¨C Rex King


    King Technologies was a branch of Ouroboros that focused on the aspect that had shaken the world market a decade ago: Virtual Reality. Rex King had been one of the pioneers of Virtual Reality when it first presented itself to the world. He currently headed his own research group to cross the final threshold of the problem that had plagued him for over five years: 100% realism.


    Today was a great day for Rex, he had overcome the final barrier and could now show the world the fruits of his labor. While Rex was celebrating with his fellow researchers, he received a text from his daughter. As Rex read the contents of the text, his originally flushed face paled and he shouted for his assistant to get him a car.


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    POV ¨C Alicia King


    Alicia King was one of the most powerful businesswoman of the 21st Century. She was currently in a meeting with some of her subordinates, discussing the success of her husband¡¯s research. Suddenly, her secretary dashed into the room with a panicked face. Alicia showed an annoyed expression before her expression froze upon hearing her secretary relay the contents of the call that had just come from her daughter. She didn¡¯t bother excusing herself and practically ran out of her office.


    POV ¨C Sophia King


    Sophia King was terrified. Her boyfriend Marcus had gone to meet up with her brother only to witness him being hit by a truck. While Sophia would usually look and claim to be indifferent or tolerant of her brother, in reality, like any other pair of siblings, she cared a great deal for her brother. Now, her brother was practically on the brink of death. Thankfully, Marcus had managed to call in an ambulance in time. She stood outside the emergency room, having contacted her parents, leaning on Marcus for support.


    POV ¨C Marcus Healy


    Marcus Healy was extremely calm. He had seen something that he¡¯d never forget for the rest of his life. His best friend, Alexander King, had just been hit by a truck. He should have been going crazy, losing his cool or going hysterical. But, Marcus was terrifyingly calm. Marcus hated being calm. But he waited outside the ER while embracing his girlfriend trying to calm her down.


    POV ¨C Hayley Caldwell


    Hayley Caldwell had been dumped by text. Arthur Weiss, had sent her picture of him with a woman on each side, captioned with ¡°You¡¯ll always be Alex¡¯s bitch!¡± It hurt her, but it didn¡¯t hurt as much as watching the state in which her childhood friend was in. A part of Hayley had always had a crush on Alex. She didn¡¯t understand how she could even think of dating someone like Arthur Weiss who hated someone who was her childhood friend. It didn¡¯t matter now. Hayley hated herself. She blamed herself for the state Alex was in. She was in shock. The nurses asked her a series of question trying to ascertain if she herself was fine. She just nodded to all of their questions.

 Chapter - 1

    Chapter ¨C 1


    18 months later....


    ¡°Say Aah!¡± (Alicia King)


    ¡°What am I!? An 8-year-old?¡± (Alexander King)


    ¡°But Alex, Mommy wants to feed you!¡± (Alicia)


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± (Alex)


    ¡°But Mommy has been busy and she wants to feed her little boy!¡± (Alicia)


    ¡°Who are you and what have you done to my cool mother!¡±  (Alex)


    After the accident and the corresponding surgery, Alex had been told, by his doctor that he was paralyzed. The accident had affected his spinal cord and he had been lucky to only be paralyzed. The doctor had also said to not lose hope. He mentioned that maybe in five years it would be possible to start healing him. Till then, he had to live with being paralyzed and stuck in bed.


    However, it had not been all that bad. After being released from the hospital 6 months later, he had practically lived in ¡®Virtual Space¡¯. He became a guinea pig for his father¡¯s 99% Realism Project. The reason his father had left it at ''99%'' was because ''100%'' realism would mean the removal of things like ''Status Windows''.


    He didn¡¯t hate it. For one thing, he got paid for it as he did actual product testing. Another benefit was that in the ''Space'' he was no longer paralyzed. He could run, jump, and fall. He also regularly played the VR games. He met up with the five elders in-game and informed them of his current state. What had surprised him was they actually came to visit him in real life! Some of them lived really far away, yet had made the effort to visit their (now crippled) Guild Master.


    Another change that had occurred had to do with his sister and Hayley. Before the incident, Hayley and his sister had been really close friends. Hayley had come to visit regularly, almost breaking down and crying the first few times. However, his sister was very hostile to her, mostly because she believed Hayley to be at fault for her brother''s accident. The hostility didn''t last too long and had been resolved in a cat fight which ended with a lot of sobbing and apologizing.


    Hayley and Alex had become closer over the past months. They hadn''t started dating yet, but Alex was planning to ask her out but kept putting it off. A big change that happened was that everyone in his family and Hayley had jumped into VR games, something most of them were unfamiliar with, just to spend time with him.


    Sophia had become ''nicer'' to Alex. "Probably realized the ''mortality'' of her twin", Alex had reasoned. She had also become addicted to VR games after she started playing them. Her fans had quickly caught onto this fact and had tried to find her in these games.


    Marcus hadn''t changed. He visited Alex more often but had behaved the same, joking with him and encouraging him to watch ''forbidden'' videos. Alex was grateful to Marcus for being the same, and not treating him differently out of pity or sympathy.


    The weirdest transformation had been that of his mother. The ''cool'' and collected businesswoman had turned into the extremely loving and caring mother of two.  Both Alex and Sophia were uncomfortable with the transformation of their mother. Alex''s father was indifferent to the change like he knew exactly what it was about. And that''s how we come to the present situation of Alex''s mother trying to spoon-feed Alex.


    "Mom, it''s fine. I can do it my....*sigh*...fine." (Alex)


    "Say Aah!" (Alicia)


    "If you don''t stop with the weird voice, I''m going to ask Soph to feed me, Mom." (Alex)


    "Fine. Here." (Alicia)


    "So, how''s the development coming along?" (Alex)


    "Well, you should know better than I do, seeing as how you beta-tested most of Mundus." (Alicia)


    "Hey! Whatcha guys talking about?" (Sophia King)


    "Wait wait! Is it about that chi-" (Marcus Healy)


    Sophia and Marcus barged into Alex''s room as Alex and his Mom were discussing the development of the game that Ouroboros was working on.


    "EHEM! We were talking about Novus Mundus." (Alex)


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    "Oh! When is the game going to be released?" (Marcus)


    "Hehe! I am soo excited about that!" (Sophia)


    "Well, we are planning to release it in about 2 months after announcing it day after tomorrow." (Alicia)


    "Wow! I can''t wait!" (Sophia)


    "Novus Mundus!  ''New World'' is kinda a bold name, Mrs. K" (Marcus)


    "Well, I''ve personally been in there. ''New World'' is kinda an understatement." (Alex)


    "Is that so? Hmm....So Guild Master, what''s the verdict?" (Marcus)


    "Chaos!" said Alex with an evil grin on his face.


    2036 CE, April 11


    On this day, Ouroboros announced the release date of Novus Mundus, a game that changed the face of VRMMORPGs. A beta test was not announced for the public to access. According to sources, the company had beta tested the game through private contracts. However, due to the reputation and power that stood behind the game makers, no one doubted their claims of 99% realism. Touch and Smell, two of the senses that had been the bane of VR game makers worldwide had been finally conquered by the researchers at King Technologies. The world waited in anticipation for the release of what could be one of the greatest games of the decade.


    2 months later.....


    2036 CE, June 11


    Alex was carefully lifted into his VR Capsule by his sister and Marcus. From today onwards, Alex was more or less leaving the real world. His father had his capsule specially crafted for him which was also integrated with a life support system which would last for at least a year before being ''refueled''. This didn''t mean that Alex wouldn''t be able to come back to the real world. If he chose to he could return anytime he wanted. However, he preferred staying in a world where he could actually move. It had taken his father over a year to perfect the VR system to suit Alex''s needs.


    Alex was feeling extremely nervous and excited as he laid down in his capsule. Marcus grinned at him, "Happy Birthday, you lucky sucker! These things are bloody expensive, you know? Even if I got a ''King Family Discount'' which I had to pay for with se-" Sophia elbowed him, "Shut up! Anyway, happy birthday bro, see you soon!" With that, the both of them scampered off.


    Alex''s father frowned while looking at their fleeing figures. He sighed, "Well, happy birthday kiddo, enjoy my creation!" Alicia smiled, "Happy birthday Alex, we''ll see you in the game as soon as possible alright?" Then they too fled in excitement and anticipation of playing the game.


    "*Sigh* So much for that. [Capsule On!]" (Alex)


    The capsule lid shut on Alex, he felt blackness and then....


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Welcome to Novus Mundus</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hello! This is the author speaking! I know I''ve been quiet so far......I''m very shy and insecure in my own work...so I just decided to let people read first and talk with them later. Now this ''story'' is part of a project I am working on for a class in college. There you have it, two dangerous words- college and project. DON''T WORRY!


    I plan to write this story for some time. However, I cannot guarantee regular updates. That depends on what inspiration I get and how much time I can invest. Now, I know some of you have actually read this, so I am hoping that you, at least, comment a bit on this story or this chapter. I NEED feedback. I want to improve my skills so I can give you guys a better story. But please, I am a little insecure, don''t be too harsh. :-P


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author out!

 Chapter - 2

    Chapter - 2


    Alex stood in a white and endless expanse. He couldn''t see the floor beneath him, assuming there was a floor.  In fact,  he couldn''t see anything but himself in the ''white room''. Suddenly, someone appeared in front of him. He recognized her instantly.


    "Aria" (Alex)


    "Hello Alex." (Aria)


    Aria was the Artificial Intelligence that had practically run Ouroboros. However, with the creation of Novus Mundus, she was ''repurposed'' and another standard management-purpose AI had taken over her previous position. Now, she was responsible for the maintenance of the game. The creation of the game had been done by another AI, namely Alice. ''Alice'' and ''Aria'' could be considered sister AIs as they were ''built'' together. They were, reportedly, the oldest AIs in the world.


    "Where''s your sister?" (Alex)


    "She''s taking care of the character creation of the other 2 billion players" (Aria)


    "Holy shit! 2 billion!? Is it that popular? That aside, why are you here and not her?" (Alex)


    "Special attention for the crippled son of the CEO?" (Aria)


    "Not funny." (Alex)


    "It is somewhat true." (Aria)


    "Hmm...fine. Let''s get on with it." (Alex)


    "I know you''re somewhat familiar with the game, but there have been some changes" (Aria)


    "Changes? Okay, explain." (Alex)


    "Alright then! As you may already be aware, we tried to make this game as realistic as possible. Therefore, it is not recommended to ''go in blind'' so to speak. So, I am going to start with the basics of all games, Status Windows. Now, unlike typical VRMMORPGs, Status Windows display a very minimal amount of information, seeing as we have no ''skills'' in-game-" (Aria)


    "What!? No skills? I bet a lot of people are going to be unhappy about that...." (Alex)


    "I doubt you share the same opinion. As I was saying, no skills exist, but those only refer to skills that one would, say, pick up from those so called ''Skill Books''. But, players, with enough practice can ''create'' their own skills. As ''compensation'', the game gives a player somewhat of a ''photographic memory''." (Aria)


    Alex frowned when he heard that.


    "You''re confused? Hmm...how do I make you understand? I know! Say you wanted to ''learn'' the basic ''Slash'' skill of the Swordsman class. From there, you have two options, find an instructor to learn it from or learn it by yourself. There are disadvantages and advantages for both ways. If you went the instructor route, you would learn faster under them, but your skill would be ''un-original'' and wouldn''t be as powerful. However, if you learnt it by yourself through a large amount of practice, you''d also develop ''insights'' into the ''Way of the Sword'' and the skill would be unique to you." (Aria)


    "That''s really amazing...." (Alex)


    "Yup! It''s like making custom skills. However, these are not just limited to physical skills, but also mental, magic and even craftsman skills! In terms of magic skills, one has to have an understanding of the element that they are manipulating to execute a good skill." (Aria)


    Aria waited for Alex to fully digest what she had just said before moving on.


    "Now, back to your Status Window. The Status Window shows only these things: Name, Race, Class, Profession, your Primary, Secondary and Deviant Element, your Unique Ability, your affinities with the basic four elements and a Skill List which displays all the skills you have learnt." (Aria)


    Alex seemed even more confused now.


    "Don''t worry, I am going to explain everything. Let me quickly explain the whole elements thing first. In this world, the four basic elements are Earth, Wind, Fire and Water. Each Race in this world has different ''Affinities'' for the elements. A Primary Element usually refers to the element or elements that you have the highest ''Affinities'' with. This can change as you train your elements. A Secondary Element, as you have guessed, is the element/s with which you have the second most affinity with. The basic four elements have a chance of ''evolving'' into ''Higher Elements'' if you train their affinities to a high level, merge two or more elements or gain Advanced Mastery over an element. A Deviant Element is an element that ''Awakens'', either through a ''fortuitous'' encounter or some extreme exposure to those elements. I won''t be spoiling it for you and telling you what the Deviant or Higher elements are. You understand so far?" (Aria)


    Alex nodded.


    "Good. Now the differences between Class and Profession. It''s actually simple. A class defines your ''build''. A profession is a ''job'' which gives you monetary earnings. These kinds of professions can range from the Craftsmen professions to professions like Monster Hunters or Mercenaries. A class usually is like an Archer, Swordsman, Rogue, Mage, Craftsman, Artist etc. With me so far?" (Aria)


    "Yup" (Alex)


    "Now here''s the interesting tidbit. ''Unique Ability''. As the name implies, this ability usually has to do with the player itself and is unique to each and every individual. This gives every player an edge over another and adds unpredictability to the mix. Unique Abilities are not ranked or anything like the monsters in-game. This is mostly because it''s the way someone utilizes their ability that makes them dangerous. Now, many players will be able to access their UA almost immediately but there will also be a large amount that won''t be able to because they will need to achieve some ''Activation Conditions'' that is individually tailored to them. Any questions?" (Aria)


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    "What races can I play as?" (Alex)


    "Well, aside from the Dwarven, Elvish and Human races that you are already familiar with, we introduced Draconians, Orcs, and Elementals. Dark Elves are considered the children of Dwarves and Elves and come under the category of Halflings. Halflings are usually Half-Something and Half-Something else. You can create a hybrid of only these races for now. Other races will be playable; we won''t ask a player to restart if they wish to play as a ''new race''. Mostly because most of these races are convertible types and one can ''transfer'' their soul into another race, but only once. They would also lose any racial advantages or disadvantages of  their previous race completely if the new race is of the ''Non-Convertible'' type like say a Mermaid or Clockwork." (Aria)


    "Clockwork, huh?" (Alex)


    "Oops, spoiler alert!" (Aria)


    Alex raised an eyebrow at that.


    "Ahem! Now, any other questions?" (Aria)


    "What about Stats like Strength or Luck?" (Alex)


    "Ooh! Good question! Stats like those aren''t visible through Status Windows. Instead, you will have to periodically train and maintain those stats. Once you do train them, you can check your improvement in various Training Halls or Magic Testing centers. Be warned! Many stats that would usually be defined as LUK, INT, WIS or MANA cannot be seen in numbers. You''ll understand once you get there. Also, things like Health Points or HP does not exist. As long as you are able, you can live! " (Aria)


    "Oh man, this game is going to be a lot tougher to play." (Alex)


    "Well, we did promise 99% realism!" (Aria)


    "Okay then, I''m ready to choose a race!" (Alex)


    Whoosh!


    Suddenly, nine different humanoid figures appeared in front of Alex. Each and every one of them had his facial features and body build. Alex was 5''8", of a medium build, with dirty blonde hair. He had piercing sea-green eyes and an almost David-like face.


    "There are certain rules for character creation. Number One, you cannot change your gender. Number Two, your body build cannot be modified too much unless it is affected by racial traits. Number Three, you can mix up to three races only. Final Rule, the Four Elementals cannot be mixed in with each other, however, each one is capable of ''Evolving'' into Higher Elementals or Deviant Elementals." (Aria)


    The Elementals in question had a vague shape and facial features. The other humanoids resembled Alex more. The Elvish one was a version of Alex with a slimmer build and long ears. The human one was Alex as he was. The Dwarvish one was a stouter version of him. The Orc was a green, mean and muscular Alex. Finally, the one that appealed to Alex the best, was the scaly version of him, the Draconian.


    "You said I can mix up to three?" (Alex)


    "Yes. Have you made your choice?" (Aria)


    "Yup! Follow my lead. Mix the Draconian with the Elf, let''s stick with my build and change the colour of whatever scales there are to black." (Alex)


    "Is that all? Good. Character name?" (Aria)


    "Need you ask? The same as always. Rex Vagus." (Alex)


    "Done and done. Seeing as how you have selected a Halfling race your affinities will not be that high. Say or think ''Status'' to look at your Status Window." (Aria)


    ''Status!'' (Alex)


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth/Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>>Unawakened<</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (10%)</td><td>Wind (5%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (10%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>None</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Wow! This is going to be fun." (Alex)


    "Heh! You ready?" (Aria)


    "Yes! Wait! Where am I-" (Alex)


    "Too late! DIVE!" (Aria)


    Alex suddenly felt whatever he was standing on disappearing.  He felt the sensation of falling and when he looked down all he saw was a large jungle below him as he hurtled towards the ground.


    Alex screamed.

 Chapter - 3

    Chapter - 3


    "AAAAAAHHH!!!" (Rex Vagus/Alexander King)


    As he hurtled towards the ground, Rex couldn''t help but scream. A blue message window popped up next to him but he was far too preoccupied to look at it. Suddenly, Rex felt his body get heavier, his rate of descent suddenly increased explosively!


    BOOM!!!


    Rex hit the ground Hard.


    ''How the hell did I survive that? Talk about a shit-faced landing! I am literally eating dirt right now!'' (Rex)


    Having fallen from a fairly high altitude, no normal human should have survived the impact. In addition, Rex had fallen face first, something that displeased him greatly. That''s when he noticed the Message Window.


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Welcome to Novus Mundus!</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Greetings Traveler!


    Welcome to this new world. As of now, you have been summoned to a different world, however, it seems someone interrupted your summoning making it difficult for you to appear in a civilized area. You have been transported


    to the [Lost Demon Forest] and must try your best to survive in this vicious jungle!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "......" (Rex)


    "WHAT THE F*** IS THIS !?" (Rex)


    RAAAAAHHH!!!!


    "Shit! Monsters!" (Rex)


    Rex ran from the crater he created when he landed. He knew that, currently, he wasn''t strong enough to face any monsters head-on. Even though this game didn''t have the concept of levels, one could say that while a newbie could kill a demon rabbit, the same rabbit could kill a careless veteran. Either way, he couldn''t afford to confront a monster just when he started. So Rex ran.


    2 hours of running later.....


    *Pant* *Pant*


    "Haa....My stamina isn''t bad. Must be a racial trait. Shit, those bunnies are no joke. They chased me for an hour straight. Then those dogs caught onto my scent. Jeez! What''s with this absurd forest..." (Rex)


    Rex had been relentlessly chased by Demonic Beasts for two hours. He had met no less than fifty different types of beasts in the past two hours. The Lightning Bunnies and the Blood Hounds had actively hunted him, unlike the other beasts who had simply ignored him. He had finally managed to shake them off by swimming across a river and finding a relatively safe clearing.


    "I need to find a place to rest. A camping ground would be asking for too much. A cave then? Or a tall tree? Both options are not easily accessible huh..." (Rex)


    The jungle was fraught with various types of predators, a cave was something that most beasts would already be very possessive of. A tree, on the other hand, would be riddled with either the snake, primate or bird type beasts.


    "Let''s see what equipment I have...." (Rex)


    ''Equipment'' (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Available Equipment</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Traveler¡¯s Clothes Set


    Ordinary Steel Sword


    Purse: 5 Gold


    Bag of Holding [Space Available- 10 items]</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Nothing useful.....Wait! I have a pretty good affinity with the Earth element, right?" (Rex)


    ''Status'' (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth/Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>>Unawakened<</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (10%)</td><td>Wind (5%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (10%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Running


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.Swimming</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Man, this isn''t really that descriptive..." (Rex)


    Rex sat on the ground and shut his eyes to concentrate.


    ''If this is anything like in the light no- !?'' (Rex)


    As Rex was meditating, he could vaguely feel a sort of fog surrounding him. The fog seemed to have some coloration to it.


    ''Is this energy? No, this is more like....Essence?'' (Rex)


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Congratulations! You have created a new skill!


    New Skill: Mana Sense</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Eh, this is Mana? Where''s the skill description? Let''s see...Skill Description! Mana Sense!" (Rex)


    "....." (Rex)


    "Nothing? Umm...List Skills!" (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Running


    Swimming


    Meditating


    Mana Sense</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "That''s it!? Is this what she meant when she talked about custom skills? How come I never got a notification for the other three skills?" (Rex)


    Sighing, Rex went back to meditating. As time went on he could in some way understand the Mana and it''s properties. Earthen brown, Watery cyan, Fiery red and a Breezy green. These were the most basic essences of Mana that he could comprehend.


    Next, Rex tried mentally reaching out to the essences. He felt that other than the essences of Earth and Fire, which were the easiest to reach out and connect to, Wind was slightly harder while Water was almost impossible.


    "Seems like my affinities affect how I interact with Mana more than I thought." (Rex)


    After that, Rex tried drawing in the Mana. He tried to start with dragging the Fire essence into the body.


    Boom!


    A small explosion happened near Rex''s chest, where he was trying to draw the Mana into.


    "Oof! Why did that happen!? Let''s just try to gather it in one place!" (Rex)


    Rex started gathering Earth Mana this time. He gathered it in his hands. He could feel something gathering above his hands. As he opened his eyes, he could see a clump of Earth hovering above his hands.


    "This is....interesting. So, Mana is like the essence of an element? So if I condense enough Fire Mana...." (Rex)


    FWOOSH!


    As Rex gathered and condensed the Fire Mana in his hands, he managed to create a medium-sized flame.


    "Medium-sized? Shouldn''t it be smaller typically? Or is this because of my affinity?" (Rex)


    ''Skill List'' (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Running


    Swimming


    Meditation


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Again? How come I didn''t get notifications for these?" (Rex)


    Growl...


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey beloved Readers!


    Author here! Just wanted to stop by and say hello!


    Actually, I also wanted to thank kilaske990 for his generous review!


    Another thing....Please comment.....I''d like to know what you like about it!


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Chapter - 4

    Chapter - 4


    Growl...


    "Eh?" (Rex)


    The sudden noise startled Rex prompting him to hurriedly look around. Rex''s expression changed from one of caution to one of despair.


    "Bark!" (Blood Hound Pack Leader)


    The Blood Hound pack that had chased him a while back had now surrounded him.


    Rex had been able to identify beasts subconsciously, it was like a mental bestiary. It seemed that this was something that all players had been given.


    "Oh shit..." (Rex)


    Blood Hounds weren''t particularly strong beasts. Much like wolves in the real world, they were stronger as a pack. The only difference is that they worked with Blood Magic.


    Blood Magic was a Higher Element. Rex guessed that it was an evolution of the Water element. He arrived at this conclusion after feeling highly concentrated Water Mana mixed in with something else around the Hounds.


    The Hounds did not attack him immediately. They had cornered him and caged him in. Now, they were just staring at him. Their ruby eyes, black fur, red claws and red tipped ears were making Rex feel a little afraid.


    ''What should I do!? I still can''t cast offensive magic yet! No! I could still create some sort of wall from the surrounding soil....I could attack with the sword -!'' (Rex)


    Before Rex could finish that thought, the Hounds pounced on him. The leader stayed at the back of the pack while five Hounds probed him.


    Rex moved fast. He gathered all the Earth Mana that he could and willed it into the ground. The ground erupted. A crudely made wall rose from the earth. The Hounds stopped their attacks, wary of the sudden appearance of the ''wall''.


    ''So crude! Is it because the Mental Image wasn''t firm?'' (Rex)


    Rex tried again. He didn''t want to wait for the Hounds to attack so he moved before they could. He ''imagined'' a sturdy and thick wall, about six feet tall, surrounding him. As soon as the wall was made, he felt exhausted and felt like he''d almost pass out.


    ''So TIRED....Did my Mana run out? Dammit! The lack of information presented in the Status Window is really...Oh!'' (Rex)


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Congratulations! You have created a new skill!


    New Skill: Earth Wall</td></tr></tbody></table>


    On the outside, the Blood Hounds cautiously circled around the wall and then tried attacking it a couple of times. Rex created a small hole so that he could see the outside. He was astonished by what he saw.


    ''Is that...mist? So red...is this blood..not only that....are those dried corpses? Holy shit! These guys are like Vampires! They''re using the blood from different animals and beasts to attack. How come they didn''t manage to suck me dry?'' (Rex)


    As Rex saw the spectacle on the outside, he noticed that the Hounds were forming what looked like a bloodier version of a ''Water Ball''. A massive sphere completely made of blood, around 5 feet in diameter, hovered in front of the pack leader while the surrounding Hounds supplied it with Mana and blood to create it. Then Rex watched in horror as the red ball morphed into a spear and slowly solidified.


    ''Shit! Shit! SHIT!'' (Rex)


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    Rex dropped to the ground as the spear was thrown and easily pierced his Earth Wall.


    ''If I stay here any longer then I''m dog meat! I have to think of a solution! If only I had a bow or a gun that could shoot long dist-! IDIOT! You have Fire Magic!'' (Rex)


    Rex created a small flame in his hand and then lobbed it over the wall. What he saw made him feel like an idiot. The flame petered out not even halfway through the air.


    ''More compact, more energy, more Mana!'' (Rex)


    This time, Rex collected the Fire Mana in larger quantities and started compacting it in a spherical shape. The flames grew progressively hotter in his hand.


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Congratulations! You have created a new skill!


    New Skill: Fireball</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Rex grinned as he saw the notification. However, he felt exhausted again.


    ''At this rate, I might pass out soon. But it doesn''t make any sense! I didn''t use any of my own Mana. Maybe it''s because my Mental Strength isn''t high enough? No....if that was the case then I would have felt a headache...Whatever! It doesn''t matter right now! I could die if I waste too much time!'' (Rex)


    Rex lobbed the Fireball over the wall, trying to aim it at the pack leader. The Fireball was slightly off, however. It landed on the Hounds standing in front of the leader.


    BOOM!


    Rex was blinded by the explosion that happened the moment the Fireball landed. He crouched down and waited. He created a small hole in the wall again and observed.


    Out of the twenty-something Hounds that attacked Rex, about ten were now charred carcasses. Six, including the pack leader, were badly burnt. The rest were only stunned by the explosion.


    Rex didn''t hesitate. He immediately drew his steel sword from its sheath and created a large hole in the wall. He ran towards the pack leader and slashed at its neck. A nearby Hound moved to intercept him with its claws but Rex ducked and moved to attack the leader again. This time, his slash connected. He didn''t stick around to see his handiwork. He immediately retreated and ran in the other direction.


    ''I''m not an idiot. Sixteen Hounds by myself? Please! I''m not some OP player.'' (Rex)


    Unlike the last time that Rex had been chased, he knew in which direction he was running. He had decided to head towards the river and hopefully lose the Hounds in the process.


    ''Huh? How come I don''t hear any howling or barking?'' (Rex)


    Rex slowed down and looked behind him. He was pleasantly surprised to find that no Hounds had followed him.


    "Where they scared off by the Fireball earlier? Or are they retreating because of their casualties? I don''t think they''ll attack me again. Either way, it''s going to be night soon, I have to find a safe spot" (Rex)


    So Rex kept moving in hopes of finding a suitable spot for him to rest.


    Unbeknownst to Rex, a pair of yellow-colored eyes with round black pupils had been watching him from a nearby tree. It had been tracking his every move since he had reached the clearing earlier. Its eyes glowed with sharp intelligence.

 Explanations

    Races in Novus Mundus


    Pure Races


    ¡¤      Humans


    o  Limited lifespan of 100 years


    o  Have neutral affinity as default with the elements


    o  Above Average reproduction rate


    o  Unlike other races, humans need to develop their affinities with Higher or Deviant Elements


    ¡¤      Elves


    o  Lifespan of 1000 years


    o  Have a higher affinity with Wind while practically negative affinity with Fire and average affinity with Earth. Neutral Affinity with Water


    o  Talented Elves are born with the Plant affinity


    o  Below Average Reproduction Rate


    ¡¤      Dwarves


    o  Lifespan of 500 years


    o  Higher affinity with Fire, negative affinity with Wind, low affinity with Water and average affinity with Earth.


    o  Talented Dwarves are born with the Metal Affinity or Lightning Affinity


    o  Average Reproduction rate


    ¡¤      Draconians


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. o  Lifespan of 10,000 years


    o  Great affinity with Fire and Earth, above average with Wind, negative with Water


    o  Most Draconians could be born with Lightning Affinity or Gravity Affinity


    o  Low reproduction rate


    o  Physically strong and tough bodies


    ¡¤      Orks


    o  Lifespan of 50 years


    o  Very High reproduction rate


    o  Great physical strength and regeneration


    o  Affinity with Earth at above average along with Water


    ¡¤      Elementals


    o  Unlimited Lifespan, no actual physical body, die from Mana exhaustion


    o  Birthed from mysterious Mana irregularities


    o  No reproduction rate, occur naturally


    o  Extremely High Affinity with their respective Element/s.


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey! Author-san here!


    Here''s some info about stuff you might want to know.


    Also, which person would you want a side story on? Please answer the poll.


    In addition, my midterms are almost here so chapter release will be a little delayed next week. But, I hope to make up for it this weekend.

 Chapter - 5

    Chapter - 5


    "Hmm...this clearing seems safe." (Rex)


    After wandering about for ten minutes, Rex had chanced upon a small clearing. The clearing looked to  be devoid of any life. It was surrounded by trees on one side and a rock wall on another.


    "Alright! Let''s begin with some rudimentary walls!" (Rex)


    Rex got down on one knee, put his palms to the ground, and ''imagined'' four Earth Walls connecting with each other. However, no matter how he tried, he couldn''t get them to raise up simultaneously. He tried to do one wall after another, succeeding after three tries. After recovering from what he temporarily called Mana exhaustion, he tried to fuse the edges of the four walls, managing to succeed with great difficulty in the end.


    "Ah! I can''t make a roof!" (Rex)


    Rex wasn''t able to create a roof that could support itself, he walls would thin out and the structure almost looked like it was on the verge of collapsing.


    "I don''t have enough control yet. Then what can I do? A dome, or an earth igloo? No, that would require more control. Maybe...a cave? This rock wall could  be manipulated into being made a cave.....I could somehow cover the entrance, right?" (Rex)


    This time, Rex stood up and put his hands on the wall, and concentrated on trying to hollow out the rock wall.


    ''This is even more difficult than I imagined. Is it because there are a lot more minerals in the wall than in the soil? Yes! I''ve got a good idea about the depth of the cave. Now to remove the solid rock.....or should I just ''move'' it elsewhere?  But how? Ugh! Nevermind! I''ll just dump the rock here!'' (Rex)


    In the [Lost Demon Forest] a strange event was happening. One man had his hands on a rock wall for quite some time. Suddenly, the man took a step back, with his hands positioned in the same manner. What seemed extremely miraculous was that it seemed that a part of the wall seemed to come off along with the man''s hands. Slowly, the man extracted a large piece of rock that was about, 50 by 8 by 8 feet. The rock almost resembled a cone of sorts.


    Rex slowly dragged the conical piece of rock out from the rock wall and deposited it right outside the cave. He was sweating profusely and panting heavily.


    "Haa, that...took...a...LOT...more...effort....than I imagined. Why does the rock piece remind me of some comic I remember reading? It looks like a roughly shaped Obelisk....." (Rex)


    He decided not to worry too much about it and decided to head into the cave. But before he did that that, he gathered some dry branches and created a few Earth Spikes at the front of the cave. Once he walked in, he created a small fire using his magic and the branches. He created a small stone bench and sat next to the fire.


    "What a day! I should get some sleep for the night, I''ll think of what to do tomorrow....Oh! Before that...." (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth/Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>>Unawakened<</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (13%)</td><td>Wind (5%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (11%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Running


    Swimming


    Meditating


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Earth Wall


    Fireball


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.Slash


    Earth Fusion


    Earth Removal


    Earth Spike</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Tch! How is it that I don''t get a notification for each skill?" (Rex)


    Rex had gained four skills since the ''encounter''. Curious as to why he wasn''t being notified about each skill, Rex decided to try an experiment.


    "Let''s see....it was something like this?" (Rex)


    Rex took a stance with his sword and lifted it above his head with both hands on the hilt. Then, with as much force as he could muster, he brought it down.


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Congratulations! You have created a new skill!


    New Skill: Strike</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Eh? What!? Just that much for that skill?" (Rex)


    Rex decided to try part two of his experiment. He invoked the Meditation skill and started to gather Mana, except this time, he was collecting Wind Mana. He decided to use the same process he used for the Fireball skill.


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Congratulations! You have created a new skill!


    New Skill: Wind Ball</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Hmm....this was slightly within my expectations....now onto the final part..." (Rex)


    Now, Rex directly invoked the Wind Ball skill and then started compressing it even more. He started to divide the Wind Ball into smaller balls and then shaped the balls into oval shapes and then finally into bullets. After he did that he attacked the nearby wall.


    "Hoh! The power is pretty decent! But, no skill notification again...." (Rex)


    ''Skill List'' (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Running


    Swimming


    Meditating


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Earth Wall


    Fireball


    Slash


    Earth Fusion


    Earth Removal


    Earth Spike


    Strike


    Wind Ball


    Multiple Wind Ball


    Wind Bullet


    Wind Bullet: Barrage</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "As I thought....it''s got to do with mentality. If one is absorbed in making the skill itself, then the skill creation window will show. But, if one is even more absorbed in with fighting or making a newer skill, one wouldn''t get a notification but would still get the skill....it''s not a bad system. Either way, I can still get skills." (Rex)


    With all his experimenting done, Rex decided to finally get some sleep. He double checked the spikes at the entrance of his cave and made sure that the smoke from the fire wouldn''t choke him. Once all that was done, Rex tried to go to sleep.


    As Rex''s consciousness drifted, he barely noticed a pair of glowing yellow eyes staring at him from outside the cave. If he would have looked closer, he might have noticed that the glow didn''t come naturally, yellow lightning crackled within its pupils.


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Ah hello! Sorry for the delay! Hopefully, I can release another chapter tomorrow. And, uh, for anyone worried about him being a mage.....


    *SPOILER ALERT*


    He won''t be, not entirely.


    Anyway, that''s that. Please comment, rate and read. And thank you- Red Kaiser, NorseWind, Cycoteddy and Famine for your comments! All of them were much appreciated.


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Chapter - 6

    Chapter - 6


    Several hours later.....Morning.


    Rex yawned and stretched as the sun shined into the cave.


    ''Ow! Ow! Ow! That wasn''t the most comfortable sleep I''ve had....but at least, I can get up....Hmm...sun''s shining into the cave....so I''m facing....east?  Alright let''s take stock of the situation.'' (Rex)


    Rex stood up and looked at around the ''cave''. He found no abnormalities.


    "Okay! So far, so good. Now, I need to find a way out of this damned forest and into another town or city. If I remember correctly, there was a river nearby.....If I follow it, then I should be able to get out of the forest someway...But which direction should I go? I need an overall view...tree-climbing ought to do it." (Rex)


    Rex first removed the spikes at the front of the cave and then proceeded to find a tree that was tall, safe and suitable for climbing. Fortunately for him, he found one right next to the rock wall. He proceeded to climb it. After some time, he found something intriguing.


    "This tree is really too damn tall! This ''rock wall'' is a huge cliff and yet this tree exceeds the height of it! Well, so do most of the other trees...." (Rex)


    The rock wall, Rex discovered, was actually a cliff. While his current position did not exceed the height of the cliff, he surmised that he was, at most, 600 feet in the air. He estimated the cliff to be 1000 feet in height while the tree exceeded it by around 300 feet.


    ''This is really high....Speaking of....why didn''t I just use Wind Mana to propel my body into the air....*sigh*....Anyway, I should get a little higher to get a better view...'' (Rex)


    Rex tried to climb a little higher. Once he reached a height of over 800-900 feet, he looked into the distance and scanned the horizon. He was looking for either a sign of civilization or someplace where the forest thinned.


    "Bingo! Towards the east, about 15 miles from here, there''s a large spire-like structure. If I walk in that direction without stopping, I can reach there by midnight, easy. But, If I use the trees and Wind Mana-!?" (Rex)


    As he was pondering on what to do, Rex was startled by a pair of bright yellow eyes staring right at him. The eyes were right in front of him and he was so surprised that he lost his balance and hence, his footing. Therefore, Rex fell from a height of 900 feet.


    "AAaahhh! Oof-!" (Rex)


    As Rex fell, his traumatic experience now recurring, he suddenly landed on something soft. However, he could still feel and hear the winds rushing by him. Confused, Rex examined what he had landed on. He gasped in admiration and surprise.


    "Holy Shi-! You are a really big eagle!" (Rex)


    A large eagle, with a size that would rival that of a wyvern, had rescued Rex. It glided for some time before it found the cave that Rex had made earlier. Then, it made a rough landing, according to Rex anyway, and waited for him to get off. As Rex got off from the eagle''s back, he noticed its bright yellow eyes, with a flickering golden radiance in them. For a second, both of their eyes met. Then Rex suddenly realized something.


    "Ah! It was you! You startled me up there! You should be more careful, you stupid eagle! I could have DIED! Do you have any ide-" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    The eagle rudely interrupted Rex and flapped his wing. No, more like, it used its wing to slap Rex! Rex was stunned that the eagle knew how to slap.


    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "Oi! That hurt! Anyway.....thanks for saving my ass up there.....How did you learn to slap people? Did you live with people before you were in this forest?" (Rex)


    SKREEE! SKREE!


    The eagle nodded its head as if agreeing with him. Then, it did something that amazed Rex, it shrunk in size. Now, it seemed like a regular bald eagle.


    "Woah! That''s amazing! How did yo-!?" (Rex)


    Before Rex could finish his statement, the eagle suddenly opened its beak and from it, a streak of yellow lightning emerged and struck Rex. Lightning being as fast as it is, Rex was unable to dodge and could only helplessly receive the ''attack''. However, when the lightning did strike, it neither hurt Rex nor blew him away, it paralyzed him completely. Rex was suddenly struck with an intense fear. He feared nothing more than being paralyzed again. The lose the ability to move? He would rather die than submit to such a fate!


    ''Move! MOVE! I won''t be helpless again! MOVE!'' (Rex)


    Through sheer force of will, Rex managed to break free from the paralysis. The eagle cocked its head to one side and screeched loudly once before taking to the air and then landing in front of the now kneeling Rex. It looked Rex in the eye and then screeched once more.


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td>This Lightning Eagle wishes to become your companion.


    Do you wish to form an Equals Bond with this beast?</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Rex blinked in surprise. However, he didn''t hesitate in saying yes. He reasoned that a Beast Companion would be incredibly useful. Also, he really seemed to click with this eagle.


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Congratulations! You have acquired a Beast Companion!</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>You have formed an Equals Bond with a Lightning Eagle.


    Don''t forget to name it and treat it with care!


    Otherwise, it shall leave you!


    Good Luck!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Acquired Resistances!</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>You have acquired the following resistances:


    Paralysis Resistance


    Lightning Element Resistance (50%)</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "WOW! This is amazing! I wonder if others have got Beast Companions yet......? Well, it doesn''t matter right now! I will name you...Laxavis!" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    -----------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hello there!


    Surprise! Early release and new companion! I still think this chapter was a little rough around the edges and kinda rushed in a way. But, it actually captured the scene somewhat well! I am sorry if the editing is off or something....Anyway! Please rate, comment and read!


    Psst! My self-confidence goes up some when is see the number of people reading this....It also helps when you comment nice things:-P!


    Don''t expect another chapter out of me too soon! It''s hard to write okay! But I''ll keep striving to please.....plus I also have midterms!


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Chapter - 7

    Chapter - 7


    As Laxavis screeched, Rex could faintly feel that he was happy.


    "I can vaguely understand your emotions! Oh! And you''re a male. Cool!" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    Laxavis seemed to agree with him. However, he also seemed to be offended that Rex had thought of him as anything other than male.


    "Jeez! Fine! Fine! Now that we''ve got out of the way, let''s head out of here! You should be familiar with this Forest, right? Do you know if that huge spire in the distance is a settlement or a clue to civilization?" (Rex)


    Laxavis moved his head from side to side.


    "You don''t know? Or....it''s not a settlement?" (Rex)


    Laxavis cocked his head to the side. Rex frowned as he felt several emotions from him. From what he could understand, the spire was an extremely dangerous place. Even Laxavis was apprehensive of it.


    "Intriguing.....let''s remember that for the future. Do you know a way out of this forest then?" (Rex)


    This time, Laxavis gave an affirmative nod and expanded in size. He motioned Rex to mount his back. Rex did so after a little hesitation.


    "Alright now where to-Wooahh!" (Rex)


    Before Rex could finish his sentence, Laxavis took off and started heading westwards. Once again, Rex felt a familiar trauma come knocking at his door.


    "At this rate, I''m seriously considering that I may develop vertigo....or just never consider being up in the air again.." (Rex)


    As Laxavis kept his bearing to the west, Rex enjoyed the view from his back. It wasn''t that he hated being this high in the air, but that every time he had ended up here, it had been in a violent manner.


    "Haa....I have to pick a preferred combat style. So far I''ve always played the Swordsman class...or a Mage Class or both...I want to try something different this time. An Assassin isn''t my type plus I''m a Draco-Elf...something Fast but also Strong....maa...whatever I can think of is related to the Swordsman class....oh well...now that I have Laxavis...I''ll look like a Hunter..!? That''s it! I want to take up the bow! Also, some magic and a little swordsmanship! But only short sword! Yes! I see my future now!" (Rex)


    As Rex was writhing about in excitement on Laxavis'' back, Laxavis himself was having some regrets about ''Bonding'' a companion so quickly. This regret mostly sprouted from Rex''s chuuni-like attitude. However, Laxavis had witnessed Rex''s fight with the Blood Hounds and his subsequent escape. He knew that this innocent-faced man should never be provoked. He also felt something terrifying within the Halfling. As they say, "Let sleeping dragons lie."


    "Haa...a Hunter won''t cut it...a custom class huh? I''ll look into it when I reach the city. Anyway, I already know what profession I''m going to take up. Haa...speaking of...Status" (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth/Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>>Unawakened< !!!</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (13%)</td><td>Wind (8%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (11%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Lightning (50%)</td><td>Paralysis (Low)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Running


    This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.Swimming


    Meditating


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Earth Wall


    Fireball


    Slash


    Earth Fusion


    Earth Removal


    Earth Spike


    Strike


    Wind Ball


    Multiple Wind Ball


    Wind Bullet


    Wind Bullet: Barrage</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Hoh! Those resistances look so good. My affinities are looking pretty good too. I should train them more. Also, I need more physical combat skills....not to mention some bow skills....Hm?" (Rex)


    As Rex was looking over his Status Window, he suddenly felt Laxavis slightly deaccelerate and also lose some altitude. Rex looked up ahead and grinned.


    In the distance, Rex could see a large wall which surrounded numerous man-made structures. He assumed it was a city, considering its size. Additionally, the entire city seemed to follow some kind of theme. It was entirely white. Rex frowned as he saw this. However, he didn''t have time to dwell on the topic much longer as something much more urgent required his attention.


    They were assaulted by a Beast in mid-air. A wyvern to be precise.


    "Dammit! Laxavis, dive quickly!" (Rex)


    While expressing his anger, Rex immediately adapted to the situation. As Laxavis dived and the wyvern passed over their heads, Rex instructed Laxavis on what to do next quickly.


    "Go up again! Good! Now, aim your lightning right at his face!" (Rex)


    As Laxavis followed through with his instructions, Rex was making his own preparations.


    ''Fireball. Compress. Fire Bullet. Break. Barrage!'' (Rex)


    Remembering what he did with his Wind Balls, Rex followed the same steps as fast as he could. Once he was done, he had, at least, two dozen Fire Bullets at his disposal. However, he didn''t fire it yet. He decided to wait for the right moment while also increasing the explosive damage of the bullets.


    The opportunity soon presented itself. The third time that Laxavis shot the wyvern in the face while also dodging its attacks, there was enough distance between them and the wyvern was also temporarily incapacitated. Rex fired with gusto.


    BOOM!! BOOM!! BOOM!!


    Continuous explosions rang out in mid-air as the wyvern was hit by the Fire Bullet: Barrage. Finally, a smoking black carcass fell from the air and landed someplace in the forest.


    Rex sighed in relief while Laxavis screeched in celebration.


    "Leave the corpse. It''s too damaged to be sold or used for materials. I''ll have to revise my evaluation of that spell. Jeez!" (Rex)


    Rex was frustrated that he couldn''t salvage such excellent material. Sighing, he asked Laxavis to continue with their trip.


    "Civilization, here I come!" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hello! Hello!


    Sorry for the delay......I was occupied with other things In-RL....


    Anyway....no ratings and no comments yet huh? Oh well....


    There''s a little clue I left in this chapter (not regarding his profession) and if anyone comments about it accurately, I''ll reveal a little bit more! (No, I am not begging for comments......am I?)


    Additionally, give me some feedback on what kind of profession Rex should get...I already have one in mind, and while it''s pretty generic....i like it....tell me your thoughts!


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author Out!


    P.S.-- I''ll try to accelerate the chapter release...but, life is kinda busy you know? But! I''ll try!

 Chapter - 8

    Chapter - 8


    As they neared the ''White City'', Rex noticed a large gate to the eastern side of the city.


    "Let''s get down a little before the city, we don''t want to alarm the guards." (Rex)


    Laxavis complied and gently dived down. They landed, at least, a kilometer away from the gates. After they had landed, Laxavis shrunk down to the size of a normal eagle and took his perch on Rex''s shoulder. Rex checked his equipment and finally noticed his disheveled state.


    "I look like some beggar, no, even worse than that I think." (Rex)


    Sighing, Rex started walking towards the city. As he neared the city, the two guards on duty, fully equipped in white armor, prepared their spears and pointed it at him.


    "Halt! State what business you have in the Holy City!" (Guard 1)


    "Greetings, good sirs! I have been stuck in the [Lost Demon Forest] for the past two days and had the good fortune to wander to this wondrous city!" (Rex)


    Using all forms of politeness at his disposal, Rex explained his situation to the two guards. However, the guards seemed to only get more hostile at his words.


    "You came from that demonic place!? Speak! How did you come to be there!?" (Guard 2)


    "Uh.....from the sky? Wait! I do not lie! I was summoned to this world, but I believe something went wrong, so I ended up in the forest! Wait! I am telling the truth!" (Rex)


    As Rex tried to answer the guards, they seemed to believe he was fooling them. Their hostility rocketed and changed into killing intent. They stabbed their spears towards him. He tried his best to dodge while Laxavis took to the air. He was struck a few times, but only lightly. He was getting better at dodging their blows but, he couldn''t keep this up for too long. Just as he was preparing to retaliate, a voice rang out from behind the guards.


    "Stop! That man is a guest of the Church! Cease your hostile actions, immediately!" (Unknown Voice)


    "Sir Raize!" (Guard 1 and 2)


    "Hmm?" (Rex)


    A burly man, equipped with heavy knight armor, had appeared from beyond the gate. This man seemed to give off a feeling of danger as if he was much stronger than Rex.


    ''This must be something akin to ''level difference''. Fascinating.'' (Rex)


    "Hello there! Sir Raize, was it? As I was explaining to the guards before they attacked me, I come from the [Lost Demon Forest]. In addition, I was summoned-" (Rex)


    "There is no need to explain yourself Sir ''Traveler''. We are well aware of your identity. You are the human that the Great God has sent to our great Holy Church, yes?" (Raize)


    ''Human? God? Not Goddess? Should I tell him of my race? I feel something off here.....wait can''t he already tell that I''m a Draco-Elf? Or could it be....my clothes are covering my scales and my ears aren''t that pointed.'' (Rex)


    "Yes." (Rex)


    Speaking one word, Rex smiled at the knight, hoping he would believe his lie.


    "Well then, please follow me. The Pope wishes to meet you." (Raize)


    ''Eh? The Pope?'' (Rex)


    While feeling confused as to why the Pope would want to see him, Rex called Laxavis to accompany him. However, Laxavis refused vehemently and took to the skies, content with following him from the air.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    "It seems your pet isn''t disciplined enough." (Raize)


    "Ah ha ha! I have recently acquired him, therefore, it is natural for there to be some resistance." (Rex)


    Nodding his head in affirmation, the knight guided Rex through the streets of the city till they reached a luxurious looking carriage.


    ''What is wrong with this city? No matter if it is a holy city or whatever, why is everything white?!'' (Rex)


    Wherever Rex looked, all he could see was white. People''s garments were dyed in white, buildings were colored white with the occasional gold lining here and there, even the horses pulling the carriage were white.


    "Sir? Ah! I have forgotten to ask your name. Please forgive my rudeness!" (Raize)


    "No no, it is fine. My name is Rex Vagus. I wish to know something, Sir Raize. How do you cope with the brightness when the sun shines?" (Rex)


    "Huh? What does Lord Vagus mean?" (Raize)


    "I meant to say that, with all this white, surely when the sun shines on this magnificent city, there must be a considerable....um...brilliance?" (Rex)


    Having phrased his sentence poorly Rex and flattered Raize as much as he could, Rex hoped Raize would understand the meaning of his words. At the same time, he was confused with the way that the man was addressing Rex.


    "Haha! Milord is quite astute. The sun rarely shines on this great city. This is mostly because of the surrounding greenery. However, if that happens, there is a barrier around the city. Now, if you will please." (Raize)


    The knight gestured for Rex to board the carriage. Rex complied and boarded it with a little hesitation. Once he was in, Raize followed, and the carriage started moving.


    "May I ask of our destination, Sir Raize?" (Rex)


    "We will be going to the church, of course!" (Raize)


    "Church, you say....forgive me for asking, Sir Raize but, I am of another ''world'' and, therefore, do not know of any religious practices of this world. Could you please enlighten me on the ideals of your Church?" (Rex)


    After a bit of silence, Raize began his explanation.


    "Our Church believes in the God Humas. He is the God of all Humans and therefore, every other race is inferior!" (Raize)


    Rex was suddenly feeling terrified. When Raize was speaking before, there was a strange fanaticism in his voice.


    "Ah, is th-that so? I see. What do you do with races other than human? And what of mixed breeds or halflings?" (Rex)


    "Hmm? Well, we kill and slaughter every other filthy race. However, the halflings and such that possess human blood are turned into slaves are to work for the glory of the church! They should be grateful indeed!" (Raize)


    ''Again! That crazy glint in his eyes. That fanaticism!'' (Rex)


    "*Cough* Indeed, they should be truly grateful. Uh, how long till we reach the Church?" (Rex)


    "We are already within the Church milord! Welcome to the Great Radiant Church of Humas!" (Raize)


    Gulp.

 Chapter - 9

    Chapter - 9


    Due to the conversation, Rex had forgotten to look outside and observe his situation.


    "Please, Sir. We will get off here. The Pope is eager to meet you. He is surely excited about your-....Arnor? What are these....halflings doing here? Get those filthy things out of here!" (Raize)


    "Forgive me, Senior. However, these lowly slaves were caught enacting a summoning ritual. Luckily, we were able to catch them before they were able to succeed. We are now going to execute them and use their corpses for fertilizing the field." (Arnor)


    "I see. At least, in death, they will be useful. Ah! Your Highness!" (Raize)


    As this rather unpleasant conversation was going on, a man dressed in white ceremonial robes with a golden crown adorning his head and a man dressed in resplendent white and gold armour with a straight sword strapped to his side appeared in their line of sight.


    ''The Pope and...his bodyguard? Why does that armoured fellow give off such a familiar feeling? Wait, isn''t that.....shit!'' (Rex Vagus)


    "Alexander King, I thought you were dead. You disappeared from my sights. What was with that Houdini act of yours?" (White-Armoured Swordsman)


    With an ill-disposed smirk on his face, Arthur Weiss greeted Rex.


    "It''s Rex Vagus, Arty." (Rex)


    "It seems our Hero is well acquainted with our guest?" (Pope)


    "Hero? Your Highness, this man here claims to have been brought here by God." (Raize)


    "Oh? Could it be that the filth managed to summon another filthy hero? Tell me, imposter. What God sent you? Some animal god?" (Pope)


    Rex frowned as the Pope seemed to almost sneer at him.


    "With all due respect, it was the Goddess Aria." (Rex)


    "What! Don''t bullshit me! No one met with any of the two Supreme Goddesses!" (Arthur)


    "The Goddess of Destruction? Oh, Really?" (Pope)


    Rex frowned when he heard the response to his statement.


    ''Stupid Aria! I thought you said Alice was handling the character creation! Plus, what''s with the whole Goddess of Destruction thing!?'' (Rex)


    "Hero Mars, restrain yourself. I will handle this. I know that you clearly are not human, little liar. Raize! Arnor! Arrest this man!" (Pope)


    "Like hell, you will!" (Rex)


    Rex was a beta tester of the game before it had been refined. He had never ventured far in the beta phase but had dueled with other testers and NPCs, extensively. This was also the reason he had chosen the Draco-Elf hybrid. He considered the Human race boring. The Elven race is considered fast and light with a high affinity for magic. The Draconic race had hard scales and are slower due to them. But, their affinity for magic and physical resistance were similarly high. Together, they make a both physically capable and magically talented hybrid.


    Rex activated Earth Wall, then using the same tactic he did in the forest, he created holes and used Fire Bullet: Barrage. However, his opponents weren''t some dogs. Raize and Arnur were first-class knights. A few Fireballs could barely damage them. However, Rex wasn''t stupid either. He drew his short sword and charged at Arnur who was coming in from his right.


    Launching attacks one after another, Rex struck at Arnur. Following a Strike and Slash, he dodged Arnor''s attack and launched an Earth Spike at the approaching Raize. He created an Earth Wall to hinder him and then used a Wind Bullet at Arnur to send him flying away.


    THROB.


    ''Damn! I can''t fend off an entire church! I have to find a way to escape! Plus, I don''t even know if they implemented a resurrection system yet!'' (Rex)


    THROB.


    Rex used Fireball: Barrage at his opponents and tried to make a run for it.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    THROB.


    "Don''t even try it! Holy Sword: Brilliant Strike" (Mars)


    THROB.


    However, Mars, Arthur Weiss''s character, stopped him and launched an attack on him.


    THROB.


    "Dammit!" (Rex)


    THROB.


    Dodging out of the way, Rex found himself trapped in a triangle formation.


    THROB.


    "Shit! Shit! First this goddamn headache, now this!" (Rex)


    Throughout the entire fight, Rex had been experiencing a painful headache. Now the headache was only getting worse.


    "Aah!" (Rex)


    At the same time, Rex experienced a peak in his headache, Mars pierced Rex''s abdomen with his sword.


    "Haha! I''ve always hated you! You and your stupid posse of friends! I should''ve actually taken that bitch to bed before I ditched her! It would have broken you! Haha!" (Mars)


    Almost maniacally, Mars gloated in front of Rex. He must have been sure that Rex would die.


    ''Moron! As long as one has the will, one can live!'' (Rex)


    "Can you shut up, you retard! I am trying to deal with this crazy headache-!?" (Rex)


    KRA~KOOM! SKREE!


    As Rex was speaking, suddenly a lightning bolt struck Mars in his chest and blew him away.


    "Laxavis!" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    Responding to his shout, Laxavis shot another attack at the other two assailants. He had appeared in his giant-sized form. He dived down and took Rex in his claws. Then, it immediately flew back in the direction of the forest. However,


    "What the hell is that!?" (Rex)


    In the direction of the [Lost Demon Forest], there was a massive black wave covering the entire forest. It was headed in their direction.


    "AGH!" (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Compatible Deviant Element: Void detected!


    Commencing acquisition!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "What? Void...? Isn''t a Deviant Element supposed to be really rare?" (Rex)


    Rex was surprised at the appearance of the Void Wave. He was astonished as he noticed the wave noticeably accelerating towards him. Now that he looked closer, the wave wasn''t just covering the forest. It was devouring it. A wave of fear swept through Rex.


    "Evacuate the city, now! Abandon the goods! Just leave!" (Pope)


    Rex was startled out of his stupor by the loud voice of the Pope. Laxavis had been circling around the church, awaiting instructions from his Bond.


    "Sire, what of the slaves?" (Arnor)


    "Didn''t you hear the man!? He said ''leave the goods''! Let''s go!" (Mars)


    Upon hearing Mars,rage swept through Rex''s head. The wave, almost like responding to his emotions suddenly increased both in volume and speed.


    "No!" (Rex)


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''2''>Your Bond has the small percentage of merging with the Void Element.


    However, if he does not merge, there is a high possibility of him being killed by the Void.


    Do you wish for him to merge with The Void?</td></tr><tr><td>Yes</td><td>No</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Yes! Yes!" (Rex)


    In his frantic attempts to save his Bond, Rex forgot to pay attention to the wave. As he looked ahead again, all he saw was,


    Blackness.

 Chapter - 10

    Chapter - 10


    When Rex opened his eyes again, he found himself in an endless expanse. A black space with nothing but him in it. However, soon a man wearing a white Roman-style robe appeared.


    ''Didn''t this happen to me before?'' (Rex)


    "Welcome, Rex Vagus. I am Void." (Void)


    "Just Void? Okay, then. What is happening?" (Rex)


    "You are merging with my progeny. It seems your Bond is having considerable difficulty doing the same. However, it was a good choice to let him merge, otherwise, my creation would have swallowed him." (Void)


    "Your creation destroyed an entire city!" (Rex)


    "It does not differentiate between living or non-living things. It''s purpose. my purpose is simply to devour all. This is the purpose given to us by our mother." (Void)


    "Mother? Are you talking about Alice or Aria?" (Rex)


    "The Goddess of Destruction creates nothing, the mother of all the other Gods and me is Mother Alice. I simply serve her sister, my aunt, Aria as one of her vassals of destruction. You have a confusing fate, Rex Vagus. Both Goddesses wish to bestow a divine blessing on you but, they were restrained from doing so. How odd, there should be none capable of obstructing them." (Void)


    "Hmph. That''s not entirely true. Anyway, tell your aunt that I''m really angry with how things turned out. Plus, you don''t even seem sorry for the innocent souls you have taken." (Rex)


    "Your rudeness to and familiarity with the Supremes puzzles me. As for the souls I have destroyed, as I said before and I will say again, I am what I am. My purpose is to devour. Your will affected my progeny. You destroyed all of that." (Void)


    "What!? Don''t joke with me! I didn''t want to kill innocents!" (Rex)


    "Enough. You wished to destroy. That much was enough. Learn to control the Void. Unlike many of the other Elements, Deviant, Higher or Basic, the Void has no ''abilities'' or ''techniques''. It is free, it must simply devour. Wield it as you will. Now go, your bond was successful." (Void)


    "Wait! I''m not done yet-" (Rex)


    The blackness receded. A white expanse came rushing towards Rex, exploding outwards and he lost consciousness.


    "Ha!" (Rex)


    Rex woke up, sweating profusely. He blinked his eyes several times.


    SKREE!


    Hearing the screech, Rex jumped and turned to the source of the sound. He was surprised by what he saw. Laxavis, who originally had brown feathers, now had black feathers, his yellow irises were now purple with an occasional gold flash in them.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Congratulations!


    Both you and your Bond have successfully synthesized with the Void Element!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Congratulations!


    Your Bond has evolved from a Lightning-Eagle to a Black Thunder Eagle</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td>For surviving the event know as The Black Calamity, others will refer to you as the Survivor of the Heavenly Purge.


    You have earned a title: Survivor of the Heavenly Purge.


    Effects: Residents of this world will look at you with a mixture of pity, fear , and reverence</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Rex blinked in surprise at the string of messages that bombarded him as soon as he woke up. He was a little more than annoyed at seeing the effect of his newly gained title.


    "Woah, Laxavis! You evolved! However.....This title is useless! Is that all I get for surviving something that killed thousands of innocent people?!" (Rex)


    Of course, Rex seemed to have overlooked the a very important gift that he had acquired; his affinity with the Void Element.


    Stolen story; please report.


    "Anyhow, let''s check...." (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Title (Currently Equipped)</td><td>Survivor of the Heavenly Purge</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth/Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Void</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (15%)</td><td>Wind (8%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (15%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Void (30%)</tr></td><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Lightning (50%)</td><td>Paralysis (Low)</td></tr><tr><td>Void (90%)</td><td>Physical (10%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''><b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>


    Running


    Swimming


    Meditating


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Slash


    Strike


    Wind Ball


    Multiple Wind Ball


    Wind Bullet


    Wind Bullet: Barrage


    Dodge


    Earth Manipulation


    Fire Manipulation


    Void Manipulation


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Woah! There''s a lot of new stuff...also, where did my Earth-related and Fire-related abilities go? Hmm? Did I get some manipulation abilities? Oh...is it because of my affinity with the Earth and Fire? Plus, what''s with that ridiculous resistance!? Whatever. Let''s check out the Void Element!" (Rex)


    Rex concentrated and begun his meditation. He activated Mana Sense and Mana Manipulation.


    ''I can feel the four basic.....but that''s about it! Where''s the Void Element!? Let''s try this....'' (Rex)


    "Laxavis, can you circulate the Void Mana around you?" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    After giving his affirmation to Rex, Laxavis''s body seemed to give off a black glow.


    ''Alright....now repeating the process...Meditation...Mana Sense...Mana Manipulation...!! What the hell is that!?'' (Rex)


    When Rex closed his eyes and tried to sense the ''aura'' around Laxavis, he could feel the distinctly evolved Fire Mana, which signified Lightning Mana. However, what really surprised him was the Grey Mana around Laxavis that seemed to consume all other Mana around it. Slowly, in Rex''s vision, the Grey Mana became darker and darker until it became pitch black. Rex could identify it as Void Mana.


    ''This thing is terrifying! To think that it could consume other types of Mana this easily! I wonder....what Deviant Element could counter something like this? Now, to sense my own Void Mana! Huh?'' (Rex)


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Due to certain conditions that have been met, your Meditating skill has evolved! It is now: Mana Meditation!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Well....that was...unexpected...I think...Anyway! Back to finding my Void! Let''s see..." (Rex)


    Rex started to concentrate and activated Mana Meditation. He could feel Laxavis''s Void Mana, however, his own was simply non-existent.


    "Just what is the secret? Maybe if I...! This is! Inside!?" (Rex)


    ------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hello, there!


    Did the surprise Chapter 9 surprise anyone? It surprised me! Anywho...I am sorry guys but, I don''t think I will continue to write anymore....


    NOT!


    Just Kidding! I love writing and I love reading comments and reviews! Why would I stop!? This is my hobby! Haha! But...there may be an unexpected delay in the chapter release next week...


    Oh well...I hope you all enjoy this slightly boring filler type chapter written with my bleeding fingers.


    Ciao! Adios! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Side Story I

    Side Story - Marcus Healy


    Unlike Rex, Marcus didn''t have a very eventful ''summoning'' to Novus Mundus.


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Welcome to Novus Mundus!</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Greetings Traveler!


    Welcome to this new world. You have been summoned, much like many of your compatriots, to the great city of Evoco! Safe travels!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "*Sigh* What was with that weird God? Blabbering on and on about how Fire magic was useless and what not....Anyway, let''s check out my stats again." (Marcus Healy)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Kazmain Fragor</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Fire Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>>Unawakened<</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>Dreamscape</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth(0%)</td><td>Wind(20%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire(30%)</td><td>Water(0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Fire Manipulation


    Wind Manipulation</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Blessings</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Divine Blessing of the God of Dreams, Kuranesh</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Haha! This is a good start! I wonder how many people chose to mix an Elemental with another race. If not for my need of wind, I would''ve picked a dwarf or draconian. But I needed a high affinity with both. And a Draconian would be difficult for me. Hmm? Wasn''t my Unique Ability supposed to be unavailable? Eh? Blessing!? That old geezer!? Dreams, huh. Heehee....I could be like the Nightmare Assassin! Ooh! Practically a pool of information to rob! Haha! As expected of the Vice-Guildmaster of Draco Vagus! Now then, to establish a foothold for him. Speaking of, when his dad sent me his status window, it looked kinda odd....weren''t his affinities out of whack? Eh...like I care..." (Kazmain)


    Taking a deep breath, Kazmain looked around at his surroundings. A bustling city with races of various kinds walking along here and there. He also noticed a few NPCs that resembled his race choice. As in real life, Kazmain had a slim build, much like a woman''s, however, now he had dark tanned skin, flaming red hair, green glowing eyes and several black rune tattoos all over his body. His angular face had a slight androgynous quality to it.


    "Interesting! I don''t sense or see any discrimination here. In a world like this, there should be some considerable amount of race discrimination no? This must be one of those rare cities, I bet. Now then, since there is no concept of levels here-" (Kazmain)


    "Halt! Traveler!" (City Guard)


    "Eh? Are you referring to me, good sir?" (Kazmain)


    "Indeed. You are one of the Travelers, no?" (City Guard)


    "Huh? How''d you know? Is there something I did wrong?" (Kazmain)


    "Not at all, sir. It is just that the city records all of its denizens. Therefore, as you have ''arrived'' in this city, we would like you to accompany us to the Registrar and register you in the Travelers Index." (City Guard)


    "Oh? The Travelers Index? Interesting. Please lead the way." (Kazmain)


    After following the guard, Kazmain was led into the ''Great Registry''.  After spending some time there to record his Mana Signature, they let him go with a copy of the city rules.


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    "Ah! That took about an hour of my time...now what was I planning on doing? Hai! Grinding!....Wait! There are no levels! Agh! What now!?" (Kazmain)


    "How about acquiring some skills, sweetheart?" (???)


    "Eh? Sophia!?" (Kazmain)


    Looking up, Kazmain was surprised by what he saw. A black haired beauty with a smirk on her face was looking at him. Perhaps if it was simply that much, Marcus wouldn''t even be fazed. However, the fact that his girlfriend had ended up in the same city as him was too coincidental. The younger of the pair of fraternal twins, Sophia King was the more ''outstanding'' of the twins. Marcus had shared a special relationship with the pair since birth, what with being their childhood friend and all.


    "Ssh! It''s Regina Malum! And you are?" (Sophia King/Regina Malum)


    "Kazmain Fragor. Do both of you idiots have a strange obsession with latin names?" (Kazmain)


    "Watch who you are calling an idiot! Humph! Anyway, as I was saying, you should work on acquiring some skills. They help in increasing your strength!" (Regina)


    "Haa....I''d rather get a class first. Or even a profession. At least, I''d earn some money that way. It''ll be easier to establish the Guild then." (Kazmain)


    "Ooh! Are we going to establish the Guild in the city? Will I get a high position? Maybe I can enter the Elders Council!" (Regina)


    Kazmain smiled wryly at Regina.


    "The Elders Council is not something anyone can just easily enter. There are and always will be five elders. They are extremely faithful to the Guild and more particularly the Guildmaster. Heh. If I didn''t have certain management skills, then the title of Vice-Guildmaster wouldn''t have been mine! Plus, you should be content with your position! You are the Guildmaster''s twin sister and the girlfriend of the Vice-Guildmaster! You have enough clout to contend with the Council. Now then, anything interesting enough to garner my attention?" (Kazmain)


    Regina smirked and pointed to a rundown building in the distance.


    "Before I tell you....I wish to complain that my birthday gift wasn''t sufficient. Meet me in the other world in my room. I want compensation." (Regina)


    With a sly smile on her face, Regina pushed Kazmain in the direction of the aforementioned building.


    On it, there were two words still written in bold, "Summoner''s Association".


    Kazmain''s eyes lit up in excitement.


    -------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hello there!


    So, as promised.....the Side Story!


    Also, like....a couple of things!


    I''d like to ask a couple of questions! (Other than the poll)


    1. What classes and profession would you recommend for Rex? (I have a vague plan in mind, but would love your suggestions.)


    2.Which other characters would you like a side story on? (This is necessary)


    3.How do you like the flow of the story so far?


    These questions will influence my plans for the story a bit, so I will love some feedback.


    Also, PM me with suggestions on what kind of personalities you''d like the Five Elders to be!


    In addition, and this is big. The character, Marcus Healy, is based on a very close friend of mine from college. In fact, he''s helped a lot with the story so guys give some appreciation to my friend by voting Applause ;-P

 Chapter - 11

    Chapter ¨C 11


    As Rex had tried to sense the Void Mana around him, he had unintentionally peeked at his own Mana. While this sounds easy in theory, imagine trying to look at your own face without a reflective surface. It is practically impossible. However, Rex was using Mana Meditation. A skill that allowed one to sense Mana. In a way, it is like a Mana probe. Therefore, when Rex guided the ¡®probe¡¯ around his surroundings, he unwittingly passed the probe over himself.


    Every living being has its own Mana signature. Even non-living beings have an amount of Mana. When Rex looked within himself, he found a very dense amount of Mana permeating around every part of his body. He could vaguely sense the four basic Mana types, in addition, he could feel a fifth and vivid energy flowing throughout his body. However, Rex couldn¡¯t grasp or understand this Mana. As Rex scanned his own body, he found a more ¡®colorful¡¯ concentration of Mana. It was a mix of bright colors, there was red, yellow, blue, green and a great amount of black.


    ¡°This¡­.Is this my Internal Mana? I see¡­.this is directly in proportion to my affinities. The black represents Void, huh? So, is Void Mana only accessible through Internal Mana? No, that can¡¯t be¡­.what was that huge black mass back then¡­.speaking of¡­just how negligent am I? This entire area¡­..*gulp*¡­it¡¯s¡­.there is nothing left! I was so absorbed, I totally forgot to look around!¡± (Rex)


    As Rex took a look around, all he could see was barren land. There was not a thing in sight. It was as if Rex had been transported to a desert. Only the sub-layer of soil remained.


    ¡°What¡¯s scary is how clean it is¡­¡± (Rex)


    Indeed, as Rex observed, the entire ¡®desert¡¯ was like a flat plain. It was very uniform.


    ¡°Just how far does the destruction go? Laxavis! Let¡¯s take a look from up above!¡± (Rex)


    SKREE!


    Laxavis and Rex flew up until they had a clear view of the reach of destruction.


    ¡°Holy shit! This....This is almost a hundred miles in radius! Must have just gone on long after we were knocked out....Eh? Are those¡­.buildings? It¡¯s a little far from here¡­.C¡¯mon buddy, let¡¯s make our way there." (Rex)


    After seeing the breathtaking spectacle that was the destruction caused by the ''Void Wave'', Rex spotted something on the far horizon. As they flew there, Rex pondered on the problem of his Internal Void Mana.


    "This is confusing. If I can only access the Void Mana from within, then how did that Void Element- Ah! It was an Elemental! Shit! A Void Elemental! That monster was terrifying! But, how....how did it come into existence? To my knowledge, Elementals occur due to high concentrations of similar Mana. That''s why Elementals cannot mix with each other. But, if there is no Void Element in the environment, how did it come into being?" (Rex)


    ''In....small....thousands of....collect.....concentration.....hibernate...'' (???)


    "Huh!? Who!?" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    As Rex was considering the problem out loud, he heard a voice in his head.


    "Eh? Was that you, Laxavis!?" (Rex)


    ''Yes....telepathy....weak...stronger....better..'' (Laxavis)


    "Telepathy? That''s.....quite amazing! But, we still can''t communicate properly. Also, you understand the Void Mana problem?" (Rex)


    ''Deviant....Mana....insufficient.....concentration....in environment...thousand years...'' (Laxavis)


    "You mean....all Deviant Mana don''t have sufficient concentration in the environment? Also, it takes thousands of years for something like that to come into being?" (Rex)


    Laxavis shook his head side to side.


    ''Hundreds....thousands...'' (Laxavis)


    "Hundreds of thousands of years!?" (Rex)


    ''Yes...Void...powerful....destruction....the world.....dead...'' (Laxavis)


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Rex frowned when he tried to interpret Laxavis''s words. He was able to sense a faint hint of terror from Laxavis as he had said that.


    "Haa...it doesn''t matter right now.  We should be at the city soon. I hope this one is as friendly as the last one." (Rex)


    SKREE!


    Laxavis agreed with him and increased his flying speed.


    "Hm? What''s this? I can feel a presence.....Is it from the city? Eh? Sophia?" (Rex)


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><td colspan=''2''>You have come into the vicinity of a family member.


    As you are a player with special circumstances, the game has created a special communications system for you and your family!


    If you are within a 20-mile radius of a family member, you can sense their presence and communicate with them!</td></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><td colspan=''2''>Sophia: Yo! How did you manage to get all the way here?</td></tbody></table>


    Rex blinked in surprise at the message he received from his twin sister. He thought of how he was going to reply and was instantly awarded a help message.


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''2''>Help Message</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>To communicate with a family member, simply imitate a conversation as you would with a Beast Companion telepathically. Think of the person, think of the content of the message and send the message.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ''Oh, so that''s how.'' (Rex)


    Rex did as instructed and composed his message.


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Chat Box</td></tr><tr><td>Alexander</td><td colspan=''2''>It''s nice to hear from you! It''s been a couple of days. The way you phrased your question made it sound that you were aware of my location. I''m assuming that has got to do with with either Mom, Dad or the AIs. Haa....it''s been a rough couple of days. I''m guessing you''re in the city I''m seeing ahead?</td></tr><tr><td>Sophia</td><td colspan=''2''>Yup! So is Marcus- I mean Kazmain. Oh! Also, I''m Regina Malum here. I heard a bit about your....uh...circumstances. I also heard about you getting a Beast Companion! I''m soo jealous!</td></tr><tr><td>Alexander</td><td colspan=''2''>Kazmain is here too!? That''s great! I bet he''s quite busy now, right? Also, I stuck with my old name, Rex Vagus.</td></tr><tr><td>Regina</td><td colspan=''2''>I never got why you chose Dad''s name.....eh? You''re moving really fast! I can sense you getting closer really fast!</td></tr><tr><td>Rex</td><td colspan=''2''>I''m flying on Laxavis.</td></tr><tr><td>Regina</td><td colspan=''2''>I''m soo jealous!</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Halt! You can''t fly over the city without a security check!" (???)


    ''That sounds awfully familiar.'' (Rex)


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey!


    Sorry for the long delay! I won''t lie. I was on Spring Break. Anywhoo.....it''s all good now. I hope.


    Here''s the latest. Things should spice up a bit.


    Anyway. Enjoy!


    Ciao! Adios! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Chapter - 12

    Chapter - 12


    Rex nudged Laxavis, indicating to him that they should land.


    "Hello, good sir! Forgive me, I am new to these parts, in fact, I am a Traveler." (Rex)


    "A Traveler? I see! Well then, my name is Captain Kyle Ruiz. I welcome you to the great city of Evoco! Before you go, we wish to know if you have registered in the Travelers Index?" (Captain Ruiz)


    "Travelers Index? No....I landed in the [Lost Demon Forest]. And then....well let''s just say I met with calamity...." (Rex)


    "The Purge....sir....could you accompany us? We wish to know how you survived a Void Elemental and if you know of its whereabouts." (Captain Ruiz)


    "You are aware that it was an Elemental? I see.....Very well. I will accompany you. Ask your questions." (Rex)


    "Yes, please. Follow me." (Captain Ruiz)


    Two hours later.....


    Rex walked out of the guardhouse with a miniaturized Laxavis perched on his shoulder. Captain Ruiz had intensively interrogated Rex but hadn''t been too hard on him. The captain was glad that Rex was understanding enough to answer all his questions patiently. The captain had been quite flabbergasted on seeing Rex''s status. Mostly due to the lack of fighting skills that Rex had and Rex''s affinity to Void.


    "Yo! You kept me waiting!" (???)


    Rex smiled when he heard that voice. He turned to his left to find his twin sister staring back at him. Except her hair color, her physical appearance was the same.


    "Hey, Regina. Got caught up with some stuff. How are you doing?" (Rex)


    "So far so awesome! I have to give you a tour of Evoco! According to the books that I found in the library here, this place is one of the only three cities, three Rex, that don''t discriminate against any race." (Regina)


    Rex frowned after he heard Regina''s excited speech.


    "Only three? This....isn''t this a lot of discrimination?" (Rex)


    "Well, I don''t think it''s as bad as the Radiant City." (Regina)


    "Radiant City?" (Rex)


    "Didn''t you level that city?" (Regina)


    "......You mean....the Radiant Church of Humas?" (Rex)


    "Ah! That is what they call themselves, no? Yeah, don''t worry, it wasn''t a very pleasant place-" (Regina)


    "THERE WERE FAMILIES IN THERE!" (Rex)


    "Calm down! I didn''t mean for it to sound rude. It is widely assumed that the city was full of military personnel. I had no idea that there were families there...." (Regina)


    "Well, there were many families there, including the slaves." (Rex)


    "Slaves.....*sigh*...this game is kinda dark, isn''t it? Anyway, do you want me to take you on a quick tour of the city? Oh, and since you are soo interested....Hayley is with Selene. Though I don''t know either of their names in here." (Regina)


    "I didn''t ask you where she was! Ugh, anyway, why is she with that mad woman?" (Rex)


    "This coming from someone who appointed her as an Elder. I think Hayley is trying to take on the Gunner class. Last I heard, they were in a Dwarven city." (Regina)


    "People sure move fast.....must be due to the lack of level restrictions. Alright, I''ll take that tour now. Wait, where''s Kazmain?" (Rex)


    "*Giggle*...He''s too busy getting beat up by an old woman. C''mon follow me!" (Regina)


    Rex raised an eyebrow on learning of Kazmain''s situation. He trailed after his sister as she started introducing all the highlights of the city.


    Three hours later, at the Gigenkai Restaurant....


    "Mmm...this fish is delicious! The food here is pretty great, right? Ah, I''m so hungry!" (Regina)


    "Haa...stupid sister, you made me run around the entire city with you, how do you have so much stamina!?" (Rex)


    "Hehe...that''s because I''m a Wind-Elf! Obviously, I changed my hair color and a have masked a few runes on my skin with clothing but yeah, I''m a Wind-Elf." (Regina)


    "A Wind-Elf? Why did you choose that?" (Rex)


    "Why choose a Draco-Elf, hmm? Anyway, that''s because of my class structure!" (Regina)


    "Class structure?" (Rex)


    "Yup! I plan to be something of a Bard, a support-type class, something that may work with Kazmain''s class. After all, Wind Magic is a good support for sound, right?" (Regina)


    "*Snort* It''s not just a ''support''. Wind Magic can evolve into Sound Magic. I don''t know how yet, but I''ll figure it out. Anyway, Kazmain''s class, huh?" (Rex)


    "Sound Magic!? That''s so perfect! I want it! C''mon big bro, you''re usually good with this stuff, right? You have to tell me!" (Regina)


    "Oi! Calm down, little brat! I just said I haven''t figured it out yet, didn''t I? Jeez, so much for a prodigy!" (Rex)


    "What''s that supposed to mean!? Prodigies can act as they wish! Humph! Anyway, you asked about Kazmain''s class? Yeah, I reckon he''s probably got Space Magic down by now, not to mention Fire, considering he''s a Fire-Elf and part pyromaniac." (Regina)


    "Wait! Space Magic?" (Rex)


    "Heh! Haven''t you figured it out? Remember that old broken down building?" (Regina)


    "Oh! I see....*sigh* looks like everyone has a grasp on what class they want...how does class acquisition even work?" (Rex)


    "Class acquisition? Well, I imagine either Alice or Aria may have given you a brief explanation? Classes are decided by your play style! If you rush to take a class, then its kinda difficult to change classes later and you''re stuck with a class that fitted your noob playstyle! Classes grant you bonuses, in fact, classes are like designation by Gods, that''s how you receive them. It can happen suddenly, in the middle of nowhere or you can forcibly acquire one in a temple or shrine." (Regina)


    Rex was impressed by Regina''s detailed explanation.


    Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    "You have a lot of information for someone who only played for two days. As expected of someone who is considered the apprentice of ''Shadow''." (Rex)


    Now it was Regina''s turn to raise an eyebrow.


    "*Snort* Who''s who''s apprentice? I just asked some of my fans some questions. They were very accommodating and were willing to go to great lengths to find answer them." (Regina)


    "....." (Rex)


    Rex was speechless at how shameless his sister was.


    "I wonder if your fans are aware that you have a ''lover''. That''d change their tune real quick." (Rex)


    "I forgot you left the real world. We announced that we are dating a couple of days back. In fact, it was on our birthday. Certainly, some fans were unhappy and both of us received death threats, but we managed." (Regina)


    Rex narrowed his eyes.


    "Death threats?" (Rex)


    "No need to be so protective. Anyway, I heard you have your own deviant element?" (Regina)


    "I thought you knew what it was. Yeah, it''s the Void Element. I even got a title,  ''Survivor of the Heavenly Purge''." (Rex)


    "Oh, I knew about the void thing, I just wanted to know the details of it. Can''t you tell me? Speaking of, did you figure out your UAB?" (Regina)


    "UAB?" (Rex)


    "It''s a short form for Unique Ability. I still haven''t discovered mine." (Regina)


    "Discovered? Ah, I see. We always have had our own UAB, we just had to find it. Well, I don''t know mine either. Since, you asked about the Void Element, here, look at my status." (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Title (Currently Equipped)</td><td>Survivor of the Heavenly Purge</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth/Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Void</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (15%)</td><td>Wind (8%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (15%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Lightning (50%)</td><td>Paralysis (Low)</td></tr><tr><td>Void (90%)</td><td>Physical (10%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''><b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>Running


    Swimming


    Mana Meditation


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Slash


    Strike


    Wind Ball


    Multiple Wind Ball


    Wind Bullet


    Wind Bullet: Barrage


    Dodge


    Earth Manipulation


    Fire Manipulation


    Void Manipulation


    Aura Sense


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Ooh! That''s a high affinity for a starting Deviant User. Hmm? Lightning and Void Resistance? Isn''t this high? Plus, have you used your Void Element yet?" (Regina)


    "No, I haven''t got the chance. Plus....I don''t think I can use an element that destroyed so many lives..." (Rex)


    "Hey, big bro. Tell me, what happens when a fire starts in a forest?" (Regina)


    "Huh? The forest burns, obviously." (Rex)


    "And doesn''t it take millions of lives, if it is not stopped? The animal lives I mean." (Regina)


    "....That has nothing to do with this. It was an Elemental, it was sentient. Alive. Capable of thought, capable of making choices. It destroyed lives." (Rex)


    "You''re just a sob story! A lion eats deer. Man kills for food. A killer whale eats mammals and fish. Lives are lost. From what I know, Elementals that are not ''players'' are wild. Wild. That means they hunt by instinct, eat by instinct. Get it? It was the law of the jungle. There was nothing you could do at the time! Maybe when you meet it again, you could take revenge. But, for now, use the power that you have. A Void Element holder! Do you know how ridiculously overpowered they can be? They can ''erase'' anything, ''consume'' everything. You are capable of decimating your enemies!" (Regina)


    "...Wow. You just gave me a pretty good lecture." (Rex)


    "I have my moments." (Regina)


    "Heh. Anyway, I have to, at least, get my profession done." (Rex)


    "Oh? Are you going to stick to being a crafter-type?" (Regina)


    "Something like that. We already have that mad woman as a blacksmith in the Guild, in a way, I''m actually going to help her. Plus, I have really developed a liking for magic." (Rex)


    "Are you going to be a mage, then?" (Regina)


    "No, I still haven''t decided on that. I prefer a jack of all trades kind of class. We''ll find out what class I can get. Till then, take me to the plaza." (Rex)


    "The plaza? I don''t remember there being any Profession Guilds there." (Regina)


    "Hehe. I saw something really interesting. Coming, Laxavis?" (Rex)


    SKREE!


    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey, guys!


    Just a quick hi and wanted to tell you that, with college and all going on, I only plan to release at minimum a chapter a week, if not more.


    Don''t worry, I''m trying my best to write as fast as possible. Soo many ideas are just bubbling in my mind. That aside here is a slightly longer than usual chapter for you guys. Enjoy.


    Ciao! Adios! Alvida!


    Author Out!


    P.S. Comment with any questions you have. ;-)

 Chapter - 13

    Chapter - 13


    "Something interesting? Haa...fine. While we go there, could you brief me on why all your affinities so out of...well...the norm?" (Regina)


    "I have no idea. I realized this very recently and thought that it must be individually tailored. Why, what is the standard for a normal Draco-Elf?" (Rex)


    "Well, going by the numbers, Earth is 5%, Wind is 10%, Fire is 0% and Water is -5%. I am assuming that you haven''t really used your Water Magic and improved it?" (Regina)


    "....Interesting. My starting affinities, going by the same order was 10, 5, 10 and 0. Unusual, no?" (Rex)


    "Very unusual. Maybe Aria and Alice had something to do with it? I met with Alice and I assume you met with Aria. I don''t sense anything out of place with my status but yours....By the way, according to the forums, no other players have met with the ''Supreme Goddesses''. Except us. Kazmain met with the God of Dreams, which must be due to his UAB." (Regina)


    Rex frowned when he heard this information.


    "Ah, we''ve reached the plaza. What did you want from here, big bro?" (Regina)


    Rex signaled for his sister to wait and approached a young boy. The boy in question had brown hair, blue eyes, looked to be 12 years old. He was selling weapons from a small stall, located at one edge of the plaza.


    "Good evening, a customer. How can I be of help today?" (Young Boy)


    "I was passing through this plaza earlier this evening and I could not but help notice the enormous amounts of Mana that was exuding from this stall, or to be more precise, from the varied set of equipment that you have. As you can see, my clothes and equipment are in a mess. In addition to that, I was looking to apprentice myself to an Enchanting Master. Therefore, what could you do for me for this much amount of money." (Rex)


    Rex waved at his sister who was nearby and was listening in. Of course, Rex had noticed this long ago and was relying on her to help him. Regina walked up to the stall and deposited exactly 20 gold coins on the stall counter.


    "20 pieces of Evocian Gold. This should be sufficient for my brother''s equipment and a little bit of information, no?" (Regina)


    The boy gulped on seeing a large amount of gold in front of his eyes.


    "Esteemed customers, please follow me. We will get sir outfitted immediately." (Young Boy)


    Saying so, the boy grabbed the gold and hurriedly shut his stall. After that, he started leading the pair through some alleyways.


    "I am currently leading you to old man Sano. He is the person who gives me 50% of the sales proceeds. He doesn''t like selling stuff himself but....well, he makes some amazing stuff. Sir, I assure you that he will outfit you quite well. He said that if someone came about and asked about an enchanting master, I should take them to him." (Young boy)


    "Old man Sano.....As I thought. Is this shack his place?"  (Rex)


    "Yes. By the way my name is Naro. Please call upon me if you ever want any information in this city. Slum children have eyes and ears everywhere." (Naro)


    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Naro smiled cheekily and then ran off. Rex smiled at the figure of the departing boy, then took a deep breath.


    "OI! YA OLD COOT! REMEMBER ME?" (Rex)


    "What the hell are you doing!?" (Regina)


    "Well, I don''t think if you know this but, there were very few beta testers and those who became either historical figures or like me, obscure myths in this world. I know this because Dad told me that they simply accelerated time since the beta test while improving the system, all under the pretense that the new ''Gods'' had helped their ''Mothers'' to better the world. Old man Sano is quite a mysterious individual. For one thing, he is not a -" (Rex)


    "Giving my secrets away quite easily aren''t you, your Majesty?" (Sano)


    An old man with short white hair and a small beard walked out of the shack in front of which Rex and Regina had stopped. The man was tall, stood straight, with a strange pride, and he had the strangest eyes, yellow with black slits.


    "I no longer am that person." (Rex)


    "Same soul, different body." (Sano)


    "You aged quite well, how many years has it been?" (Rex)


    "Humph! You should have asked how many millennia it has been!" (Sano)


    "Millenia.....thousands upon thousands of years?" (Rex)


    "Twenty Millennia. Twenty thousand years we have waited for their return. Finally, you have all returned." (Sano)


    "They?" (Rex)


    "You and the other seven. The original leaders of the great era of ''before''. Now six of them are worshiped and idolized within each of the ''major'' races. The other two, hmph, the ''Wandering King'' and the ''Dark Emperor'', they are not widely recognized among the populace. However, royalty keeps a great record. So do we." (Sano)


    "Idols....I don''t remember anything worth deifying." (Rex)


    "So say you." (Sano)


    "I did most of those acts, of course, I know the history."  (Rex)


    "Consequences of those acts, however, is not something you witnessed. Stories were told. Tales were spun. Legends were born. You.....you became a Myth" (Sano)


    "Myths are tall tales. Legends are rooted in fact." (Rex)


    "And yet everything you did was worthy of being mythical. You became my friend after all. Not to mention the Goddesses favor of you. Hmm?" (Sano)


    "What is so special in being your friend?" (Regina)


    "Oh. I forgot that you were here, Milady. I sense that you are, in many ways, similar to his Majesty. Would you not introduce us?" (Sano)


    Rex glared at the old man.


    "Old man, this is Regina, my twin sister. Sis, this is.... Sano. Elder Dragon, counselor to Dominus, King of Dragons, who also happens to be my old...companion." (Rex)

 Chapter - 14

    Chapter - 14


    "D-Dr-Dragon!?" (Regina)


    "Haha. I forget that dragons are a thing of legend now. Our weaker cousins, the wyverns are more commonly seen now. It is sad that our race''s number dwindled. Perhaps the closest contender for our blood is the Draconian tribe. Hmm? Are you surprised at my human form? Heehee! This is a type of skill that dragons utilize to project human appearances. Anyway, I cannot keep both you waiting here, please, follow me." (Sano)


    Saying so, Sano led the pair into his shack. Once inside, Regina felt great shocked. Rex''s face, however, was more in control, his face flashing with a little surprise.


    "What is this? Why are there so-" (Rex)


    "Are these paintings and sculptures of my BROTHER!? These are really detailed! Wow! How did you manage to make the inside of the shack so big? Ooh! Are those weapons? And armour!? Ah! They''re glowing! Are they enchanted!? Haa? What''s that picture? The one with the man fighting that dragon....why is it so familiar...? (Regina)


    "You a ask a lot of questions, Milady. First, yes indeed they are of your brother, from a time long gone. Secondly, those are indeed enchanted armours and weapons....something a king taught me long ago. *Smirk* I wonder if he still remembers his art. As for that picture, it is entitled ''A Battle of Kings, the Dragon and the Wanderer''. A friend of mine who witnessed such a battle painted it with much fervor. It is a battle of legend, spoken only in circles of the royalty of the more....united races." (Sano)


    "You mean everyone except the humans." (Rex)


    "Indeed. Humans tend to fight amongst themselves quite often. The other races....they tend to pass on stories and tradition with much more ease." (Sano)


    "Haa...anyway.... I paid your ''lackey'' enough gold for some armour and weapons for me. Also, I was hoping that you might help me remember." (Rex)


    "Remember? Oh! Enchanting, is it? You were quite talented, however, you left our world before you could accomplish much. Your mastery of the skill was of a beginning master level or so. To reach the level that I-" (Sano)


    "To reach your level? You mean Grandmaster? After soo many years you''re still at that level?" (Rex)


    "Little Brat! Are you making fun of me!? Let us see if you are still a great warrior as you once were!" (Sano)


    "Ho! Not so fast, old man" (Rex)


    Rex concentrated on his connection with the Void Element and forcibly emitted a little of it outside his body.


    "What the hell!? You-you survived a purge?" (Sano)


    "Oh? It seems you are quite familiar with this stuff?" (Rex)


    "Of course, I am! What the hell do you think the Dark Emperor was!? That person survived a similar event, however, unlike you, he went insane and power hungry. He practically commanded the Elemental to submit to him! Why do you think he was so terrifying!? You never had to deal with him, but the others...they never managed to stop him. In the end, he left with the rest." (Sano)


    "The Dark Emperor..." (Regina)


    "Hmm? You''ve heard of him?" (Rex)


    "Not....in the way you''d imagine. Just a weird thing I heard. From one of my sources. He said something about an organization. It''s supposed to be very...well evil. They, trade in slaves and the like. However, that is all I''ve heard but the name-" (Regina)


    Stolen novel; please report.


    "Tenebris." (Sano)


    "Oh?" (Rex)


    "They''ve been around for a while. They worship a single deity. Aria, the Goddess of Destruction. However, they believe the Dark Emperor to be her emissary and hence wait for his return. They would be quite delighted to have you, your majesty." (Sano)


    "Tenebris. Tch. Aria had better have some good answers. Regina." (Rex)


    "Hmm?" (Regina)


    "We''ll have to part ways here. I need you to do two things for me, please. Find Shadow, tell him I want more info on this. Inform Kazmain too. And.....find a temple to Aria. Tell her I want answers." (Rex)


    "Haa....fine, Guild Master. But, do you think that she''ll answer my call?" (Regina)


    "If that moron doesn''t, then, I''ll make her." (Rex)


    "Waa! Waa! Scary! Eh...fine. Alright then, old dragon man, big bro. See ya!" (Regina)


    Regina said her goodbyes and left. Sano raised an eyebrow.


    "Guild Master?" (Sano)


    "I have my resources. Where are yours?" (Rex)


    "Unlike you, we can''t act as freely in the midst of these races. Us dragons are said to be things of legends, after all. Hmm...but a Guild? You sure you have the qualities to lead? I thought you said you didn''t like being titled the ''Wanderer King''?" (Sano)


    "The ability to lead and the ability to rule. I consider them to be two different things. Now, onto better things?" (Rex)


    Sano smirked and then pointed a finger at Rex''s forehead. Suddenly, Rex felt a rather painful headache. Then as quickly it had come, it disappeared. In its place, Rex found information surging into his mind.


    *TING*


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Congratulations! You have learned a skill!


    Skill: Enchanting</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Ow! What the heck was that!?" (Rex)


    "Hehe! That was a skill, Skill Transfer! Nifty, right?" (Sano)


    "And painful too. I see that it doesn''t mention mastery." (Rex)


    "The world did change after all. Soon after you left, the Goddesses suddenly brought forth even more Gods. The ''system'' changed soon after. The world was no longer restricted by a numerical representation. It was....very refreshing. But....in a way, we could no longer measure skill. However, we soon discovered that resistances and affinities were still capable of being measured. It took a number of years, but, we managed to adapt. Anyway, I went off on a tangent, shall we?" (Sano)


    Sano lifted his right hand and placed it on Rex''s head.


    *Ding*


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''2''>You have been offered the Profession of Enchanter!


    Enchanters are people that use and imbue magic in tools and equipment to grant them specific effects. Enchanters are considered to be a very important part of society and thus are treated with great respect. Enchanters are different from Magi Crafters.


    Accept?</td></tr><tr><td>Yes</td><td>No</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Yes!" (Rex)

 Changes, Edits and Poll

    Heya folks! A new chapter will be along in some time. I am busy today with some college work too...soo yeah..chapter release will be delayed. It might be released by nighttime Eastern Time. Anyway back to the topic. I don''t know if you all have noticed...but...um...I changed the font size..this is mostly because I was having issues when I was composing chapters and making tables. So I resized all the fonts and also did a quick review of all chapters so far. Good stuff!


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Anyway...after this semester is over...i plan to aggressively work on this story...so I was hoping for a collaborator who likes my ideas and would like to be my editor. Sorry but I can''t pay anyone,-P...but...i won''t needs too much of your time. Just a few hours per week to help with the story that''s all.


    All that said and done. Here''s an important poll. I plan to write it for after  the 20th chapter.

 Chapter - 15

    Chapter - 15


    "How''s that? Are you satisfied? Knowing you, you should be able to master the skill quite well and that too in a short span of time." (Sano)


    "Stop worrying about me, old man. What about the equipment?" (Rex)


    "Give me a few days. I have to get your measurements to a Tailor and Blacksmith. Hehe, this device of mine can help with that...hee hee I collaborated with an Engineer to make this. Is this not really-" (Sano)


    "Stop boasting. Get the job done. Once you''re done, I''ll do some practice." (Rex)


    "Che~ You really do not know how to appreciate good craftsmanship." (Sano)


    Sano took out a small square device and pointed it at Rex. Rex could feel a wave of unfamiliar Mana pass over him and then get sucked back into the device that Sano held.


    "There! All done! Let me take you to a scrapyard where you can get a hang of the skill. After that...well...there are some things that I will have to teach you." (Sano)


    Rex had a puzzled expression on his face.


    "Don''t look at me like that. Firstly, Skill Transfer is a very high-level skill. Secondly, it transfers the workings and some facts about the skill. Since you have already some experience with Enchanting, you have some knowledge  too. However, times have changed. There are other aspects to Enchanting too! Aren''t you curious about the Mana I just used to scan you? Hee hee! That is part of the new Enchanting School. Anyway-Huh? Hey! I just noticed this....but...where''d that black bird go?" (Sano)


    Seeing Sano''s confused face, Rex was startled to find that he hadn''t noticed his companion disappearing either. Suddenly, he received quite an alarming notification.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Your Beast Companion, Laxavis has undergone a race and name change. Additionally, the Bond has been dissolved.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "What...What the hell!? This...how is this possible?" (Rex)


    "Oi! Oi! What happened?" (Sano)


    Rex took a deep breath and tried to calm himself down.


    "My companion just underwent a race change and it''s name changed." (Rex)


    "Eh? Isn''t that quite normal? I mean, it''s name changing is quite odd, though. What race was it before?" (Sano)


    "It was a Black Thunder Eagle. You don''t understand. My Bond has dissolved." (Rex)


    "A Black Thunder Eagle!? Shit! Not only you, but you also let your beast survive the goddamn purge? You reckless shit!" (Sano)


    Rex was quite surprised at seeing Sano this angry at him.


    "Why? What do you mean?" (Rex)


    "You don''t understand! For you, the Void Element was always a part of you. But for a beast, especially one without a Deviant Element-" (Sano)


    SKREE!


    "That screech....Laxavis!?" (Rex)


    "Brat! Get the hell out of here! I''ll deal with the Void Elemental Eagle for now. GO!" (Sano)


    ''Void...Eagle?'' (Rex)


    Suddenly, as Rex ran out, a large being leapt out of the shack. A large winged creature, with crimson scales covering its body, was hovering in the air, next to the large black shadow bird.


    GRAAA!


    The crimson dragon roared at the bird and dived at it, simultaneously spewing fire at it. The bird effortlessly warded off the fire with its body. It was also getting ready to consume the dragon in front of it when it suddenly felt something and backed off.


    Rex gasped in surprise as he felt an immense concentration of red, green, blue and yellow Mana surrounding the crimson dragon. The gathering of the different types of Mana seemed to perturb the Void Eagle. It screeched once more, turned its head towards Rex''s direction and flew away.


    "What....what just happened?" (Rex)


    The dragon growled at Rex.


    "Have you forgotten this form of mine?" (???)


    "''Course not! I wasn''t even talking about that. That thing could have destroyed everything, but, you chased it away. How?" (Rex)


    "This is neither the time nor the place. The authorities should be here within minutes. Follow me! Quickly!" (Sano)


    Saying so, the crimson dragon transformed back into the grumpy old man that was Sano. He gestured at Rex to follow him and led him into a few alleyways. All the while, Rex could hear shouting and the noise of clanking armours around him. He understood that the city militia had appeared at the scene and must have been searching for evidence.


    "Where are we going, old man?" (Rex)


    "The scrapyard. It''ll be good practice and I can explain some things to you there quickly. Afterwards, I can return to my shop and act the part of a tragic old man who just lost his entire business. Heh" (Sano)


    "You....why do I feel as though you are really shameless?" (Rex)


    "Psh. Shameless? Me? Ha! Hmm? Oh, we''ve arrived. Welcome to the Enchanter''s Scrapyard!" (Sano)


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Rex looked around and was momentarily stunned by what he saw. In front of him was a large piece of land. The entire land was covered with various types of things. Swords, daggers, maces, hammers, morningstars, armours, arm guards, gloves, tables, chairs, books, sculptures and miscellaneous things were scattered around the place.


    "This place is quite impressive! How big is this place?" (Rex)


    "Eh...not too big. About 10 miles into 20 miles? I''ve seen bigger ones in more craft focused places." (Sano)


    "Is that so? I''ll have to pay a visit to the library sometime. Learn more about how the world is now." (Rex)


    "Hehe...the library is indeed a suitable place for general information. However, as someone having personally witnessed the many turning points in the history of the world why don''t you just ask me?" (Sano)


    "Because I would rather read a thick book than listen to an old dragon prattle away about its glory days." (Rex)


    "Why, you little-! Hmph! I''ve had enough. Let me just impart the information to you and then I''ll take my leave. Listen well, since you are so keen on the library, you might as well use it to learn the Runic language. Enchanting is now more than simple fire-augmented swords and the likes. However, what you and I both did was more than simple. Enchanting has incorporated much of what we used and the Runic language to add other effects. The runic language helps guide the ''enchantment''. Therefore, the more proficient you are with Runes, the better. Hehe....to be honest, it was our race that penned the Runes. I could simply ''teach'' our language to you, but it would be better for you to learn it yourself and take that time to calm yourself. You may look composed right now, but, I am quite sure that you''re confused and angry inside. Your Black Thunder Eagle? I believe that it was consumed by the Elemental. It is long dead, now. Take heart in knowing that it died without feeling much pain, also, it''s soul passed on as the Elemental is usually too busy to worry about that. That is not what actually matters-" (Sano)


    "What. The. Hell. Do. You. Mean. By. That?" (Rex)


    "Calm down, your majesty. I did not intend to downplay the death of your companion, however, that creature was more intelligent than it should have been. It was specifically targeting you. It didn''t seem to be in a frenzy either. Most Void Beasts are driven by a single instinct. To devour, consume, eat. This one was in perfect control of itself. It even took the initiative to retreat. No Void Beast would do that. Unless.....unless it was being controlled. That is the only other method that I can think of." (Sano)


    "Controlled? Then someone who is capable of controlling Void Beasts? Didn''t you just inform me of such an individual?" (Rex)


    "The Dark Emperor. Indeed, it is entirely possible. I will look into this matt-" (Sano)


    "No need. I already have someone working on that. I am quite sure that if he puts his mind to it, he will have brought me all the information that I need." (Rex)


    "I see." (Sano)


    "You will help me with my skills. I need to get back to the way I was. I thought I could spend my time leisurely in this world, but, it seems that I will have to fight to make things right again. Now, go. Don''t you have a shop to mourn over?" (Rex)


    "Ah! Ye-Yes. I will see you later, little brat." (Sano)


    Rex watched the old man leave then looked towards the heap of things lying in front of him. He decided to get to work. Perhaps if it was another time then Rex would have teased the old dragon for his lack of composure, however, Rex was too angry to worry about that now. As for Sano, he had felt real fear when he had seen the eyes of his old friend.


    There was nothing there. Only inky blackness.


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey, guys!


    Ahem! Firstly, here''s a major chapter! Tell me your thoughts! Because I know that some are angry! He~He!


    On another note, I noticed that nobody voted for poor Rohan. My poor fellow Indian. My poor fellow <b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>Perverted Undead Commander.....whoops....DON''T LOOK!


    Anyway. Here''s another poll on something I worked my ass off to make. See above question. Also, I would like for more people to vote. Thanks~


    Ciao! Adios! Alvida!


    Author Out!


    P.S.- Who likes the new RRL? I kinda do....but I''d like it better if they quickly fixed some of the issues. Also, I enjoyed some of the beta test...but it was kinda slow~ Ah well......See ya next week!

 Resurrection System

    Resurrection System


    The Time Difference: Real: Virtual: Netherworld = 1: 2: 4


    ¡°Imagine the body, the Flesh, to be a weight of sorts, a container even. Then imagine a string tied to that weight. Now imagine a floating object at the other end of the string. The object is the soul, the string is the Life force, holding the soul to the body. Life magic or Mana reinforces that string, whereas Death magic weakens the string. Now other types of magic? Well, they destroy the weight leading to the soul floating away, presumably to the Underworld. Except for Void, that, that just eats the string, the weight, and the object.¡±


    ~Unknown, Book of Necromancy, Volume I, Chapter I.


    The soul of a living being usually stays around for a few seconds near the body, after death. If a soul is forced back into its body, mostly by the souls own will, an Undead is born. If a soul is forced into a body not its own, a Zombie is born. The soul, if not forced back, or reconnected with Life magic, is pulled towards the Underworld soon after, ¡®soon¡¯ depending on the mental strength of the being. The Underworld is on a completely different plane, which means that for someone, someone alive, be it Traveler or Native, to travel there, they will require both Space and Death Mana to open the Door.


    By Death, it means eternal living in Genus, nation of the dead. Natives are the sole residents of Genus. Travelers may visit through the Door, but their soul cannot withstand the pressure for too long and hence are forced out unless given express permission.


    For those who await Resurrection, they have all of three choices. As it is extremely difficult for Natives to resurrect after their soul is pulled into the Nether, this part of the Underworld is mostly populated by Demons and the subjects of the God of the Dead and Goddess of the Underworld. Additionally, it is a known fact that the God of the Dead keeps a part of your soul as insurance when you enter his domain.


    The first choice, the Fields of Slumber. This location is exclusive to Travelers. In player terms, most players log out in this area and leave the ¡®world¡¯. This leaves their avatar in a state of ¡®sleep¡¯. Here players wait till the penalty time is over, i.e., 12 hours in real life, 24 hours in-game, and 48 hours in the Fields. There are ways to reduce the wait time. Once you have waited enough, players travel through the Door of Resurrection and are resurrected in the closest available Church of the Dead.


    The second choice, Necropolis, City of the Dead. A place mostly used by the craftsman or non-combat type Travelers and Natives. Trade thrives in this place.


    The third choice, Trials of Rebirth. An arena type environment where Travelers and Natives fight opponents to gain the currency of the dead.


    Necropolis is a small ruined city, ruled by the God of the Dead. This city makes profits through its so-called tourism. These tourists mostly consist of dead Travelers. Most of these Travelers either hold a profession of a craftsman/artist or is a non-combatant. They come to this city to earn Soul Tokens, the currency of the city. These Soul Tokens are a precious commodity. While in the city, a Traveler can work hard to recover from their penalty. Chaotic Non-combatant Travelers have a harder time as they are paid relatively less amount of Tokens. The same rules apply for Natives.


    The Trials of Rebirth take place in an arena or colosseum environment. Here, Travelers and Natives alike face challenges that help them earn a certain amount of Soul Tokens. The amount of Tokens gained is largely dependent on the classified rank of opponent the challenger beats. The ranking ranges from F¨¤E¨¤D¨¤C¨¤B¨¤A¨¤S¨¤X¨¤Deity Rank. As a challenger beats each successive rank, they gain an amount of designated Tokens.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Opponent Rank</td><td>Designated Reward (Soul Tokens)</td></tr><tr><td>F Rank</td><td>5 ST</td></tr><tr><td>E Rank</td><td>20 ST</td></tr><tr><td>D Rank</td><td>50 ST</td></tr><tr><td>C Rank</td><td>100 ST</td></tr><tr><td>B Rank</td><td>500 ST</td></tr><tr><td>A Rank</td><td>1000 ST</td></tr><tr><td>S Rank</td><td>10000 ST</td></tr><tr><td>X Rank</td><td>100000 ST</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Note: Deity Rank opponents are not challengeable or for that matter easily available</td></tr></tbody></table>


    When a Traveler arrives in the Underworld, they lose a portion of their powers, this is restored within the arena, and the arena only.


    Soul Tokens, as stated before, are a very precious commodity. Travelers use them to reduce the wait time of 48 hours by ¡®buying reductions¡¯. Natives need to earn substantially more than Travelers so that they can buy their way out from the Underworld into Novus Mundus. However, these Natives are not your regular Natives. For a being to be able to resurrect, they either have to be a Traveler or an extremely powerful Native.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Soul Tokens</td><td>Reduction by:</td></tr><tr><td>100 ST</td><td>2 hours</td></tr><tr><td>1000 ST</td><td>4 hours</td></tr><tr><td>10000 ST</td><td>16 hours</td></tr><tr><td>100000 ST</td><td>24 hours</td></tr><tr><td>1000000 ST</td><td>36 hours</td></tr></tbody></table>


    If a Traveler were to forego payment for their resurrection and escape through the Door, they will suffer various penalties. This happens mostly because the God of the Dead has a part of their soul in the Underworld. Firstly, they will not resurrect in a Church of the Dead but in the place where they died. Secondly, they will suffer various penalties depending on:


    <ol type="$type"></li>


    <li>Your alignment, i.e., ''Good'' or ''Evil'' (say Chaotic Players)</li>


    <li>Your class type - Combat type or Non-Combat type


    </li></ol>


    Here is a table to illustrate the penalties (The percentages denote the reduction in strength).


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''4''>Penalty of escaped Travelers from Necropolis</td></tr><tr><td>Type/Alignment</td><td>Good</td><td>Neutral</td><td>Evil</td></tr><tr><td>Combat</td><td>70%</td><td>80%</td><td>90%</td></tr><tr><td>Non-Combat</td><td>60%</td><td>70%</td><td>80%</td></tr></tbody></table>


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Notice from the City Lord of Necropolis</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Let it be known that ''Evil'' Travelers pay a 20% tax on each transaction while ''Neutral'' Travelers pay 10% tax. ''Good'' Travelers pay only 5% tax. This tax also applies on transactions involving ''resurrection'' of Travelers.


    This rule has been authenticated by the God of the Dead and the Goddess of the Underworld.</td></tr></tbody></table>

 Chapter - 16

    Chapter - 16


    Two hours later....


    Rex Vagus was frustrated. To him, it felt something like a sportsman coming back to play  his sport after a year of absence.  He had the feeling, but he was lacking the familiarity that he had before.


    Enchanting had always been a fun process for him. During the beta phase, when the game resembled every other VR game there was, he had the sub-class of an Enchanter. He had also managed to reach the Master Rank. It had taken him a good year to reach that level. Obviously, the Natives of the world were shocked at the time. But, at the time, Rex had simply been following the leveling system. It was during that time that his travels had started. Not long after, mostly due to the events that seemed to center around him, Rex had gained a title, ''Wandering King''. It was an odd title, one that he had begun to grow tired of. However, it seemed that it was the title that he was remembered by. He had been no actual ''King''. But, he had been told that his bearing resembled one.


    Pulling his thoughts out of reminiscing about the past, Rex tried to focus on the present. He was holding a Greatsword, the target of his enchanting. However, he wasn''t sure of the Grade of the sword.


    Equipment, like Beasts, were given Grade or Rank ratings. These Ranks or Grades were something that Natives used to categorize how dangerous a Beast was or how well made a piece of equipment was. There were also institutions that had adopted this system. The Adventurer''s Guild, for instance, had ranked their employees in a similar fashion. However, many institutions had remained stubborn and followed the old system of ranking. The old system went like this: Amateur¨¤ Beginner¨¤ Intermediate¨¤ Advanced¨¤ Master¨¤ Grandmaster¨¤ Deity. The Enchanting Guild was one of the institutions that had stuck with this system.


    Rex admired the sword and then got to work. He wanted to start with a simple enchantment: Fire Aura. Rex manipulated as much Fire Mana as he could and started to slowly fuse it into the sword. The first few times that Rex had tried to do this, either the sword had melted due to overheating or there had been a small explosion. Now, Rex was successfully able to fuse the Mana particles into the sword. The trick, Rex remembered, had been to imagine the sword to be filled with a different Mana, Earth in this case. Then he had to fuse or insert Fire Mana particles into the ''gaps'' thereby completing the simple fusion.


    What Rex didn''t realize was that what he had just done was not typical enchanting. Since Rex had been a Master Rank Enchanter and he also received the skill from another Master Rank, he didn''t understand that what he had just done was not Fire Aura but actually making the sword gain properties of Fire. A typical Intermediate or Advanced Rank Enchanter usually would manipulate Fire Mana to ''stick'' to the equipment they aimed to enchant. That was when one could actually observe the effects of Fire Aura.


    Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Haa...Haa...this process doesn''t make me as tired as it used to. I wish I had an Appraisal-type skill, though. It would''ve helped me understand the effects I have bestowed. Now for the next part." (Rex)


    This part was where Rex was having the most difficulty. He had been unable to gain any success in this part. He had to direct the Mana in the sword in a specific manner. This is how specialized enchantments were made. Fire Aura was considered a simple enchantment. However, it was also considered the base on which specialized enchantments were built. Rex had understood that after some painstaking work.


    "Let''s see....What effect should it be? Fire Blast, Fireball, Fire Edge...? Hmm...maybe Fire Blast is worth a try." (Rex)


    Rex focused on the greatsword again. He sensed the Mana within the sword and willed it to converge at a single point: the tip of the sword. He was able to bring the Mana to the tip but as soon as the Mana converged, a small explosion occurred.


    "My, my! Here I was worried about your state of mind, but you seem to be doing just fine!" (???)


    "Who!? Oh...Hey sis, what are you doing here?" (Rex)


    "I finished the errand you gave me. Nox is doing his bit, though it would be better if you visited the library once you''re done here." (Regina)


    "Ah..thanks." (Rex)


    "I am sorry about Laxavis. I had taken a liking to him." (Regina)


    "It''s fine. I''ll get to the library once I''m done here. I''ll try to find more on what happened to him-" (Rex)


    "Is that it?" (Regina)


    "What?" (Rex)


    "Are you going to do what you usually do? Make yourself emotionally numb? Pretend to not hurt on the outside. Go all silent and act calm? Where is the rage? Where is the sadness? Or are you saving all that for later? You-" (Regina)


    "It. Is. None. Of. Your. Business." (Rex)


    "It is. You are my brother. My twin brother if I may add. We know each other well enough. I know you won''t do anything stupid. But, you can''t bottle it up all inside you like that." (Regina)


    "I was doing fine till you showed up. It was almost off my mind too." (Rex)


    "It shouldn''t be. I would have lost it. I would be going crazy looking for the bastard that was responsible. But, not you." (Regina)


    "STOP LECTURING ME! I am well aware of who the culprit is! However, I am not stupid enough to just simply confront someone like that head on. Unlike you, I have patience. I will wait. I will gather strength. And then, when all is said and done, I will strike. Now, I have scraps to blow up. So please, leave." (Rex)


    "....Fine. I''m sorry. Just..... don''t do anything stupid. Talk to Marcus, I mean Kazmain. You don''t have to alone in this. I have your back too bro. See ya." (Regina)


    "I''ll talk to him. Bye." (Rex)


    Regina left the scrapyard but as Rex watched her go he saw another person making their way here.


    "You''re done with your business old man?" (Rex)


    "Haa....yes. So troublesome. Well then, shall we?" (Sano)


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Heyo folks!


    So...looks like stuff has stabilized. Consider this a filler chapter more than anything else. I am already working on other chapters.


    Oh and keep them suggestions coming. I often find that the greatest inspiration can come from your audience/readers. So, inspire away!


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author out!

 Chapter - 17

    Chapter - 17


    "So....it seems you''ve calmed." (Sano)


    Rex frowned.


    "What? You think I didn''t see those rage filled eyes? Oh well....what''s done is done....let''s get started, shall we?" (Sano)


    ".....Haa...well? What should I be doing?" (Rex)


    "Certainly not what you are doing now....do you even realize that the technique you are using is something way beyond what an Advanced Rank Enchanter is capable of?" (Sano)


    "So?" (Rex)


    "..." (Sano)


    "..." (Rex)


    "*Sigh*....how about we begin with what typical enchanters do?" (Sano)


    "Why would I want to know that? Isn''t it better for me to do my own thing? I just wanted to see the runes. See how they''ll help." (Rex)


    "You do know that what typical enchanters do is a result of thousands of years of research?" (Sano)


    "..." (Rex)


    "Fine." (Rex)


    "You''re like a five-year-old." (Sano)


    "And you''re a two-millennia-old dragon." (Rex)


    "Enough. I''m starting my lecture." (Sano)


    "Do teach me, o great dragon." (Rex)


    Rex could see a vein bulging on Sano''s forehead.


    "Haa....Enchanters.... A typical Enchanter is one that assigns magical properties to what can be considered ''normal'' or ''non-magical'' equipment or items. Enchanters also have different schools within them. So do other Professions, obviously. Either way, my school focuses on two parts of enchanting; Battle Enchanting and Rune Enchanting. Rune Enchanting is a complicated process. It uses Runes, or a secondary written language recognized by the user, to imbue effects into something. However, as simple as it may sound, the process itself is, well, difficult. At least, for typical people. We''ll get more into that later. Now, Battle Enchanting, heh, this branch of Enchanting refers to quick enchantments. A simple Fire buff added to a sword, or an Earth Aura added to armour. Each and every part of Battle Enchanting is...well...it requires a lot of skill and control. The reason for that is, well, as ''Battle'' implies, this sort of Enchanting is for temporary and battlefield use only. Do you understand?" (Sano)


    "Yeah. Basically, Permanent versus Temporary, right?" (Rex)


    "...Yes. What you were doing was, well, a hybrid of sorts. It didn''t involve Runes nor would it be temporary. You planned on ''blessing'' a greatsword with the very properties of Fire." (Sano)


    "What is wrong with that?" (Rex)


    "Ugh. The reason you failed is because, well, you need to have a mediator to fuse two types of Manas. In this case, we can consider the sword to have Earth Mana while the Fire Mana is separate. What you did was trying to mix and fuse those two very different elements together. That, in itself, is extremely difficult to accomplish. How could you possibly expect to succeed on the first try?" (Sano)


    "I see.....then what should I actually be doing?" (Rex)


    Sano put his right hand inside the brown bag he was carrying. He removed something from it and handed it to Rex.


    "A card? What''s this for?" (Rex)


    "The library''s more well-restricted section. Study up on Runes. Once you''re done.....we''ll begin. As for Battle Enchantment lessons....you''re already there. Instead of Infusion think of.....hmm....wrapping? Or perhaps sticking is a better word?" (Sano)


    "If that is the way you teach people, I''d be surprised if any of them become even Intermediate Rank Enchanters!" (Rex)


    "Hmph! How I teach is none of your business!" (Sano)


    "........So says the teacher to the student.......*sigh*...Fine, fine! I''m going now." (Rex)


    Rex walked in the direction of the exit of the scrapyard. As Rex left, Sano took a look around.


    "As determined and talented as ever. *Sigh* The appearance of a Void Beast requires us to move up all our plans......I''m sorry, little King, but I have other matters to tend to. May the skies grant you a safe journey." (Sano)


    Saying so, Sano''s form contorted and instead of an old human, there stood a tall and muscular draconian with a pair of leathery wings protruding from his back. He took the skies and headed towards the mountains in the north.


    At the city library....


    Rex didn''t have a lot of difficulties finding the library again, mostly due to the massive structure that it was housed in. However, getting there had been a pain. There was some sort of commotion in the city, something about a dragon and a large black creature appearing within the city. The commotion had brought Rex back to the matter that had been on his mind.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it


    "The Dark Emperor...." (Rex)


    "I''m sorry did you say something?" (???)


    "Ah! Forgive me, ma''am. Are you the librarian?" (Rex)


    "I''m in charge of them, yes. You may refer to me as Head Librarian or Miss Nuuhn" (Nuuhn)


    Lost in his thoughts about what the future holds, Rex forgot that he was already inside the library, standing in front of the reception desk.


    "Ah....well, Miss Nuuhn, can you please direct me to where you keep books on runes?" (Rex)


    The half-elf lady frowned at Rex.


    "Those books are in the restricted section. We can''t have anyone just poking around and learning about Runes. You will require special permission or a library card which grants you access." (Nuuhn)


    "Ah! Um, I have a card here..." (Rex)


    "Oh, well then! Please present that beforehand next time, please. I''ll have one of the assistant librarians bring you around. Please wait a moment" (Nuuhn)


    "Ah, yes." (Rex)


    ''Must be massive to require assistant librarians...'' (Rex)


    "Ah, he''s here. Young man, I''ll have Assistant Librarian Nox show you to your section." (Nuuhn)


    "Thank you." (Rex)


    ''Nox?'' (Rex)


    From the bookshelves behind the Head Librarian, a person walked out. He had a head full of flowing black hair which was reaching up to his waist, had black eyes, was 5''5" and had extremely pointed ears.


    "Please follow me." (Nox)


    Rex followed Nox through the various bookshelves, seemingly heading to the restricted section of the library.


    ''I wonder....'' (Rex)


    "You have been busy since you arrived in the city." (Nox)


    "I''m sorry?" (Rex)


    "*Chuckle* Come now, Guild Master, surely you recognized me?" (Nox)


    "I wasn''t entirely sure but, it''s good to see you again, Nox. What are doing being an Assistant Librarian?" (Rex)


    "Information." (Nox)


    "Ah....you''re running our Information Department from the inside of a library?" (Rex)


    "It has its merits. That aside, I believe you are looking for information on some player nicknamed the Dark Emperor?" (Nox)


    "Hmm...yes." (Rex)


    "My, no, our subordinates are working on it. However, I have only encountered one Dark Emperor and that is in history books. Is he your target?" (Nox)


    "They''re the same person. The beta test was the past, this is the present." (Rex)


    "I see....anyway...here''s the door. You use the card and go downwards...you''ll find that the sections are organized by subject...if what you say is true then another individual is also a potential danger....he was referred to as the Wandering King...perhaps we should-" (Nox)


    "No need. That was me. Good job, Nox. I''ll be expecting more. Also, contact Sarah. Tell her we''ll need resources and a strong foothold. I''ll see you in a bit. Take care." (Rex)


    "......As you command." (Nox)


    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey guys...


    Some news. So my semester is coming to an end, therefore, this project (which I plan to continue writing), is to be kinda printed and submitted. This news doesn''t affect you guys much....I think. Well, my original plan was to write up to 20 chapters and two side stories....ah well....


    In other news.....I have completed (well editing is still left)....Side Story II! Now, I am faced with a small problem...SSII is something that isn''t consistent with the current....well....timeline...so...I''m in a pickle and I want you to decide whether you want it now as it contains...well some spoilers....so uh yeah.....Vote for Selene now or Vote for Selene later!


    Ciao! Adios! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Chapter - 18

    Chapter - 18


    ''He sure likes to get into his role...'' (Rex)


    Rex was pleased to meet one of his Guild members. He had worked hard for the Guild and in the process, he had found many other friends to help him to realize his goal. Their Guild had become famous in its own right but they had never tried to get into Guild competitions and had always been neutral.


    ''Well it''s not like we didn''t get into a Guild War....but...we did kinda decimate them.....*chuckle*, THAT was fun.'' (Rex)


    Rex kept walking down the various flights of stairs until he arrived at what he assumed to be the ''basement'' of the library. In front of him was a massive room filled with various bookshelves arranged in an orderly manner. There were a few people milling about too.


    ''Clearly this place is less populated....and it seems the majority of these people are old or rich...'' (Rex)


    Rex got down to work. He started his search in the languages section. He didn''t find any subject related to Runes there, so he surmised that it had a subject dedicated to itself.


    ''Actually....wasn''t Nox supposed to guide me there? Don''t tell me he''s slacking off.....nah....no way....that guy would never slack off....Rohan on the other hand....haa...'' (Rex)


    While thinking such thoughts, Rex managed to locate the section on Runes. However, he ran into an unexpected problem.


    ''Is that....an Ork? No...he seems different...a hybrid? No....he''s a halfling....never mind that. What''s with this!? It''s soo huge! How am I supposed to learn all that!?'' (Rex)


    "Oh? I''m sorry, I didn''t see you over there young one. Am I obstructing your way?" (???)


    "Ah...no. Not at all. Um...Mister...?" (Rex)


    "Norval. Norval H''arr. I am an Ice Ork. I can see the question in your eyes." (Norval)


    "Is that so? I did not mean to be rude. You simply looked....um...different..compared to the Orks I have seen on the street. My name is Rex. Rex Vagus." (Rex)


    "I see. Well, Rex, are you here to learn about Runes?" (Norval)


    "Yes....but.." (Rex)


    "Surprised by the volume of information? Indeed, Runes have existed for a long, long time. And, therefore, the records on them is extensive. This library is one of ten throughout the continent that has some semblance of proper information on them. While the history of Runes may be vast, deciphering them is another thing." (Norval)


    "I see. Then, what are you doing with all of this?" (Rex)


    "Haha! I could ask the same of you. Well, I am an archeologist of sorts....a historian. My fascination lies with legends of the past....those Travelers that existed twenty millennia ago." (Norval)


    "Is-is that so? Well, my field is of Enchanting. Could you help me?" (Rex)


    "Enchanting? I am sorry, but, I cannot help you in this matter. It seems you will have to comb through these books to find what you seek. However, if it is translation you need help with, then I will gladly help." (Norval)


    "Thank you. I''ll just get a chair for myself." (Rex)


    ''Agh....and hard work commences...'' (Rex)


    Three hours later....


    "*Yawn*" (Rex)


    "Tired?" (Norval)


    "I''m not sure...I feel like my head is stuffed with knowledge....but....I still don''t understand a way to apply it." (Rex)


    "Is that so? What did your master say?" (Norval)


    If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    "*Snort* ''Master'' is hardly a term for him. No. He didn''t give me the specifics. He simply told me to learn some Runes. However, he never specified which. Why are their so many different Runes?" (Rex)


    "Ah! A good question. Runes are considered a, well, user specific language." (Norval)


    "Huh?" (Rex)


    "Well....for spellcasting, for instance, if you are a Rune Mage, or a Rune Warrior, like me, then, the usage of which Runes you use is up to you. The Runic language must not be the user''s spoken tongue. Are you familiar with how magic skills or spells are made?" (Norval)


    "No. Wait...is it....the image?" (Rex)


    "Yes! The image and the proceeding action. You see? It means Mental Strength. Tell me, why, if spellcasting requires only the ''image'', do Amateur or F-Rank Mages fail to do high ranking spells?" (Norval)


    "Is it because of...umm...Mana Capacity?" (Rex)


    "You and I both know that Mana Capacity can be overcome with External Mana Manipulation." (Norval)


    "*Mumbles* So that''s what it''s called....." (Rex)


    "Oh? It seems you''re quite a talented spellcaster to be familiar with the phenomenon without being aware of it beforehand." (Norval)


    "I simply felt it was natural." (Rex)


    "Haha! Anyway, the correct answer is Mental Strength and Mana Affinity. Your Affinity and Mental Strength are integral to your control of a Mana type. Having a higher Affinity makes it easier. While Mental Strength does the same thing, the only difference is Mental Strength plays a more integral part in External Mana Manipulation. Do you understand?" (Norval)


    Rex felt like he had just gained insight into something very important. From what he just learned, he could see the infinite possibilities of combining his magic into a combat style. It would mean that he would be able to manipulate Mana effortlessly once he had the highest affinity.


    "Good. It seems you understood something. However, there are some ''Elements'' in the world which are not capable of being externally manipulated. The Higher Elements are difficult, but not impossible. Take my ''Ice'' for example. As you may have noticed I am paler than most Orks and have Runes tattooed on me. These Runes are something I have made for myself. However, there are some Elemental Halflings who are born into this world with their own Unique Runes. That is a different topic. As I was saying, Deviant Elements are not something that you can control externally. Internal Mana Manipulation is a requirement  for controlling such powerful forces." (Norval)


    "I see...." (Rex)


    "Now then, it seems I have wandered off topic....where were we? Ah, yes. Runes, also, require visualization. An image, of sorts. A Rune user will need to understand what each letter means or denotes and visualize the meaning. Do you understand now? You don''t need these Runes. You need your Runes." (Norval)


    ".......I see. Thank you. I''ve learned a lot. I will take my leave now." (Rex)


    "Oh? Will you go back to your master now?" (Norval)


    "Hmm? Yes. But before that, I think, I''ll go do some hunting in the city outskirts." (Rex)


    "*Chuckle* You seem eager to try something." (Norval)


    "Yes, yes I am. Thank you, again. I hope we meet again, Norval H''arr." (Rex)


    "Indeed. May fate be with you, Rex Vagus." (Norval)

 Chapter - 19

    Chapter - 19


    "Haa..." (Rex)


    Rex stepped out of the library and into the city. He had been unable to locate Nox. The Head Librarian had told him that Nox had taken a leave for a week. Rex had decided to not worry about him for now and look for a place to hunt. The sky was darkening as he strolled towards the southern gates of the city.


    "This city is quite a big place.... I wonder.... Never mind that. Let''s see what improvements I have made.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Title (Currently Equipped)</td><td>Survivor of the Heavenly Purge</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Enchanter</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Void</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (16%)</td><td>Wind (10%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (18%)</td><td>Water (1%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Void (30%)</tr></td><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Lightning (50%)</td><td>Paralysis (Low)</td></tr><tr><td>Void (90%)</td><td>Physical (10%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''3''><b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>


    Running


    Swimming


    Mana Meditation


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Slash


    Strike


    Wind Ball


    Multiple Wind Ball


    Wind Bullet


    Wind Bullet: Barrage


    Dodge


    Earth Manipulation


    Fire Manipulation


    Void Manipulation


    Aura Sense


    Enchanting


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Hmm...looks like it was worth it to try to enchant scrap....My affinities increased again. No new skills, apart from Enchanting.....I need more combat skills and maybe some movements skills. Not to mention defensive skills....Speaking of defense...I wonder where the old man plans to get my equipment from....Well...I have a day or two...I''ll ask him when I meet him." (Rex)


    It took Rex twenty minutes to reach the southern gates of the city. He greeted the guards and asked them if he was allowed to go out to hunt.


    "If you are going out now, I won''t stop you, however, you will need to be back within two hours. Also, carry some identification with you." (City Guard 1)


    "I see. Will this card from the Traveler''s Index suffice?" (Rex)


    "Yes. That will work. Don''t forget to be back within two hours." (City Guard 1)


    "Yes, I''ll keep that in mind. Alright, then. Have a good one." (Rex)


    Rex exited the city and started his jog towards the south of the city.


    ''If I remember what Regina said then.....Ha! Here we go....this should be the forest region that exists right before the land meets the sea.'' (Rex)


    Rex made his way into the forest. He had been informed by Regina that the forest in this area had D-Rank to A-Rank Demonic Beasts. Rex hadn''t been sure of what rank he had managed to reach but he had checked and found that Blood Hounds were considered E-Rank individually but a pack was ranked at C-Rank. Rex had been lucky enough to actually defeat an entire pack. That was mostly due to his ingenuity. Hence, he placed his strength close to D-Rank.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    "D-Rank or not....I can''t risk going too deep into the forest." (Rex)


    Rex proceeded cautiously. He was able to find his first prey in ten minutes.


    "A bloody Lightning Bunny. Perfect, A D-Rank kill." (Rex)


    Rex had an evil smirk on his face as he readied himself. He concentrated on Fire Mana and then tried to also bring in Wind Mana.


    ''Agh! This is really difficult....Never mind then...I''ll just do this!'' (Rex)


    He concentrated solely on Fire Mana and focused the Mana into a spear-like shape. He was duplicating the move that the Blood Hounds had used against him. He focused on the spear and then sent it flying.


    BOOM!


    The impact crater was quite huge.


    "Dammit...." (Rex)


    The Lightning Bunny appeared to be unharmed. It was staring at Rex intently from the edge of the crater. Suddenly, a sound of crackling could be heard and the beast was wrapped in lightning. The next moment, Rex felt a huge impact on his stomach. He was blown back fifteen feet and landed on his back. Fortunately, he had some resistance against lightning otherwise, he would have suffered even more damage.


    "*Cough* *cough* This sucks...." (Rex)


    The bunny tilted its head to one side and disappeared the next instant. Rex only saw a white and yellow flash at his right side before he blown away again. This time, Rex was quite sure he had broken some ribs.


    "GAAH! Shit! Shit! Shit!" (Rex)


    The bunny had attacked him before he had even gotten up. Rex wasn''t sure how he would deal with this particular beast. The next two minutes consisted of Rex getting blown to and fro from one place to another. It was extremely humiliating, considering that the perpetrator was a little rabbit. During his beatings, due to the pressure he was facing, Rex suddenly came up with a good idea.


    "Lightning....grounded? Ugh....GAAH! Shit!" (Rex)


    As soon as he came up with the idea, Rex took the small moment when the beast stopped its assault and focused on the Earth Mana. He erected a wall around himself. The next attack heavily impacted the wall but Rex simply reinforced it with another layer.


    "Should have thought of this before....now what? I managed to defend myself but how will I kill that accursed thing?" (Rex)


    He was aware that using the same tactics he used with the Blood Hounds would be futile as there was only a single opponent this time.


    "Moreover, that rabbit is crazy fast. *Cough* Ugh...My ribs hurt so much." (Rex)


    As Rex was contemplating what to do, the continuous attacks against his wall suddenly stopped.


    "Odd....is it tired? Or...?" (Rex)


    GROWL....

 Chapter - 20

    Chapter - 20


    Rex froze when he heard the growling. He realized exactly what had happened now. A stronger predator had shown up.


    "*Groan* Why does this happen to me?" (Rex)


    ROAR!!


    A loud roar rang out and suddenly Rex''s wall received an extremely heavy impact. Rex was startled, his Earth Wall already had cracks in it. He hurriedly tried to reinforce the wall, however, something unexpected occurred.


    "Wha-What is this? The Earth Mana around here isn''t in my control!" (Rex)


    Not only was the Mana no longer under Rex''s control, he could actually sense it gathering on the other side of the wall. Suddenly, the wall around Rex crumbled because of the lack of Mana in it.


    ''Ah....so you can do that too....'' (Rex)


    In a daze, Rex failed to notice the massive beast in front of him.  What appeared to be a tiger with faded fur, with a metal mask on its head and spear tipped tail, stood looking down on Rex''s crouching form.


    "Wh-What....A Metal Liger!?" (Rex)


    The mental bestiary in Rex''s mind instantly identified the creature in front of him. Rex was instantly terrified. He knew that a Metal Liger was a low A-Rank beast. However, from what he was told, that was only if there was a gem on its forehead and it hadn''t fully formed its metal mask. A Metal Liger with a fully formed mask was practically an upper A-Rank beast, bordering on S-Rank.


    ''I thought the area around here was only filled with D-Ranks!?'' (Rex)


    While he was thinking such useless thoughts, the Liger pounced towards Rex. Rex wasn''t able to react in time and suddenly his left arm was in the Ligers mouth.


    ''No. No. No! NO!'' (Rex)


    The Liger promptly tore off his arm.


    "AAHH!!" (Rex)


    Rex was in pain. He felt almost blinded by it. In addition to that, he was also losing blood rather quickly. He was beginning to lose all control of his emotions.


    ''It hurts! It hurts! It hurts! It hurts! It hurts! It hurts! It hurts! It hurts!'' (Rex)


    The beast didn''t pay any attention to Rex''s pain, it simply started gorging itself on his left arm. It didn''t take it long to realize that an even tastier and bigger piece of meat was right in front of it.


    Grrr...


    Rex was really panicking right now. He was terrified, his instincts were telling him to flee.


    ''I have to run. I-agh-have-gah-RUN!'' (Rex)


    With every last bit of willpower left in him, Rex stood up. The Liger was actually eyeing him warily. It seems to have sensed something within him.


    ''Have to....Haa.....distract...'' (Rex)


    Rex tried focusing on the Mana around him. He willed the red-colored Mana to surround the beast. The Liger didn''t seem to sense the change at first, however, once the heat rose, it growled and its eyes shone. Countless spikes flew up from the air, all made out of some metal.


    "GAAH!" (Rex)


    With no energy to move, Rex was unable to avoid the majority of the spikes and was pierced in several places on his body. He was bleeding from his stomach, from his hands, knees and chest. No normal living being could survive such damage.


    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ''This....ugh...this is it. But, ugh....I don''t want to die...will I still live, if I have will?'' (Rex)


    In the region known as the Coastal Jungle, there stood a man and a beast. The beast stood proudly, in all its armored glory, while the man stood impaled and bleeding, close to deaths door.


    The Liger stood patiently, waiting for its prey to die. However, as time passed, it noticed that the light in its preys eyes did not diminish. It shone, steady and bright.


    Growl...


    ''I. Want. To. Live. I. Want. To. Survive.'' (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Unique Ability Triggered!


    Because of certain conditions being met your Unique Ability(UAB) has been activated!


    UAB Active: Survivor''s Instinct


    On the brink of death, when your will is strong, the Survivor will awaken. It has no name. It is your primal instinct. It is Survival.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Suddenly, Rex no longer felt anything. It was as though he was detached from his body. He could see, he could hear, he could smell, but, everything else was out of his control. It was like someone had taken control of his body, no, it was like something possessed it.


    BOOM.


    The Liger was startled. Its prey had broken free of its restraints. What was even more shocking was how fast its preys body was healing. However, that wasn''t all. The Metal Liger was suddenly struck with terror. It had seen the eyes of its prey, no, now it was the predator.


    Rex''s body suddenly moved. He, it, was faster than before. Rex immediately realized why.


    ''The Wind! It''s using Wind Mana to bolster its speed!'' (Rex)


    The Metal Liger wasn''t stupid. It immediately retreated while erecting an Earth Wall of its own. Rex''s body, however, simply shot a palm out and siphoned the Earth Mana from the wall to make it crumble. The Liger was quick to retaliate, it fired several Metal Spikes at it. But, the body conjured multiple small fire bullets and intercepted the spikes, almost effortlessly.


    Rex watched all of this happen in astonishment. He had never been able to control Mana so well or for that matter aim so precisely.


    As Rex''s body removed the threat of the spikes, he got closer to the Liger and at the opportune moment, made a chopping motion towards the neck of the beast. It seemed like a futile move, except that Rex was aware that its hand was layered in Void Mana.


    The hand chopped downwards. The Liger gave one final defiant roar. Suddenly, something dropped to the ground. It was the Liger''s head. Rex''s body only gave it a glance before it suddenly started running. Abruptly, Rex found that they were out of the forest and were approaching the city. As soon as Rex was able to discern the outline of the city gates, his body stopped.


    ''Wh-What''s happening? Wh-Why am I-uhh...uhh'' (Rex)


    Rex felt exhaustion overcome him. His conciousness was slowly fading. He felt himself suddenly regain control of his body and also the senses that he had been cut off from. The blinding pain came rushing back. His head went white. Before Rex could even scream, darkness overtook him.

 Side Story II

    Side Story II


    Selene Owens was tired. She was tired because of the huge workload that she had. She was tired of dealing with her boss. Not that she hated her job. In fact, she loved her job. But her job also required severe amounts of mental concentration and absolute secrecy. It was this aspect of her work that always exhausted her.


    But Selene didn''t let such a thing hinder her. She was headed back home. She was a twenty-eight-year-old employee of a rather large company. She had worked extra hard and in return, she had earned a lot of downtime from the company. Now, she could finally do what she had looking forward to since getting off from work.


    Selene unlocked the door to her small home. She lived alone and was single. Her last relationship hadn''t ended well. Her ex-girlfriend had grown tired of the late nights and the inattention. Either way, Selene was quite content with the way things were now.


    "Aaah....let''s see...first a bath and then...hee hee...I look forward to meeting that little sweetheart." (Selene)


    Selene practically skipped to her bathroom and took a quick shower. She changed into less formal clothes and dried her hair as best as she could. Once she was done, she turned to the ''contraption'' quietly sitting in a corner of her bedroom, right next to her bed.


    "*Phew*. Novus Mundus here I come!" (Selene)


    Selene climbed into the capsule and got into a comfortable position.


    "[Capsule On]!" (Selene)


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''2''>Welcome Back.


    Please Select a Virtual Reality Game-


    <ul>


    <li>Arena Live!</li>


    <li>Empire of Money</li>


    <li>Galactica!</li>


    <li>Novus Mundus


    </li></ul>


    </td></tr><tr></tr></tbody></table>


    "Novus Mundus" (Selene)


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''3''>Welcome to Novus Mundus.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    Selene saw a bright flash of light almost blind her right after she saw the welcome message. Once she was able to see again, she found herself standing in the middle of a town square. However, unlike her usual looks, which were of a 5''8" woman with black hair and tanned skin with bright blue eyes, she now had red hair and red eyes, retaining her tan skin with the appearance of the occasional red scale on her arms and legs. She had the same height, but she had more muscle than her real life self. Her outfit was a simple black leather armor set.


    "Hey! You''re late!" (???)


    "So says the recent high school graduate who doesn''t have to work!" (Selene)


    Selene found a silver haired woman standing a few feet behind her. The woman was a little shorter than her, had black eyes and a set of ears more pointed than hers.


    "Hehe! Had a rough day, Ira?" (???)


    "Not really. Just a little tired, mentally that is. Nothing a little bit of smithing won''t solve!" (Selene/Ira)


    "Jeez! You and your addiction to smithing! Humph! Here! I need my guns to be maintained. Please?" (???)


    "You in a hurry?" (Ira)


    "I have an errand to run. See you in a bit!" (???)


    "Haa...alright then, Bye !....Hmm...what was I going to do? Ah, yes! Smithing! Uh...before that! Status!" (Ira)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Ira Ferrous</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Mixed (Draconian Dark Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>Spirit Blacksmith</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Magi Engineer</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Life</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (15%)</td><td>Wind (10%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (20%)</td><td>Water (-2%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Life(25%)</td></tr><tr></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Running


    Hammer Strike


    Impact Wave


    Berserk Swing


    Fire Manipulation


    Earth Manipulation


    Blacksmithing(Collective Skill)


    Heal (Basic)


    Rejuvenate


    Infuse Life</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Heh. Not bad. But seriously, the Blacksmithing skill took a long time to acquire. I even spent two weeks in that Dwarven city, Thanurgaard. That bloody mountain would have been the death of me! Haa....but...I gained something nice from there anyway!" (Ira)


    Ira didn''t dally for long and ran towards the smithy she was currently working at. She could be considered an upper C Rank Spirit Blacksmith. She had worked hard to make it to that rank. However, she was frustrated with her progress. She needed to improve. She knew that her master was a Grandmaster Spirit Blacksmith, she wanted to surpass that old dwarf. She tried doing a mental calculation in her head according to the Ranking Conversion Table. She cursed the old man for being a traditionalist. She mentally recalled the table in her head.


    <table><tbody><tr><td colspan=''2''>Ranking Conversion</td></tr><tr><td>F


    E</td><td>Amateur</td></tr><tr><td>D</td><td>Beginner</td></tr><tr><td>C</td><td>Intermediate</td></tr><tr><td>B</td><td>Advanced</td></tr><tr><td>A


    S</td><td>Master</td></tr><tr><td>X</td><td>Grandmaster</td></tr><tr><td>Deity</td><td>Deity</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "So....X Rank? Hmm...I have to reach Deity Rank to surpass him. Haa.....what a monster." (Ira)


    If her master would have heard her say that he would probably have hit her on the head screaming something along the lines of, "Who are you calling a monster! You''re the bloody monster who reached Intermediate Rank in less than two weeks!" However, as there was no one to reprimand her, Ira remained oblivious to how much of a monster she was.


    "Hmm....The meeting is in a week....I should probably forge weapons for the Council, but not before I forge one for Little Boss!" (Ira)


    As Ira was talking to herself, she found herself in front of the workshop.


    "Forgemaster! Ferrous reporting!" (Ira)


    "Ha! You came today too! Didn''t your master tell you to leave this little town after a week?" (Forgemaster)


    "Hehe! So he did! I''m leaving tomorrow. However, I want your help with something..." (Ira)


    "Hmm?" (Forgemaster)


    "C''mon! Technically speaking, you''re my senior. A senior disciple should help a junior, no? C''mon, Master Lancaster?" (Ira)


    "Tch! Who said I won''t help!? What do you need?" (Master Lancaster)


    "An accelerated smithing." (Ira)


    The Master Blacksmith narrowed his eyes.


    "Girl, I may not be a Spirit Blacksmith like you, but, I am still an A-Rank Blacksmith. You are asking me to make something in such a short moment. The quality will drop tremendously. Even Blacksmiths have their pride." (Master Lancaster)


    "I thought you''d do as I say?" (Ira)


    "You asked for a favor." (Master Lancaster)


    "Tch. Fine. Please?" (Ira)


    "........Fine. Just once. After this, no more favors. You owe me." (Master Lancaster)


    "Big time. Here. These are the designs." (Ira)


    The blacksmith raised an eyebrow at the design.


    "Hoh? And for whom will this fine weapon be for?" (Master Lancaster)


    "For my Little Boss. I need it to be sturdy. Once he has a good grasp of it...well I don''t think he''ll need it anymore, well not physically at least. It''s....well...let''s say a special trait." (Ira)


    "Elemental Weapon Mimicry...." (Master Lancaster)


    "Hmm? Did you say something?" (Ira)


    "Nothing. You going somewhere?" (Master Lancaster)


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    "Maintaining my friend''s equipment. Once that''s done...I''m going hunting." (Ira)


    "....I''ll go warn the town guards." (Master Lancaster)


    "Pardon?" (Ira)


    "Nothing. Why don''t you get down to work? I have a small errand to run." (Master Lancaster)


    "Okay. See ya." (Ira)


    With that, Ira went into the forge and prepared the materials to repair her companion''s equipment.


    An hour later, aAt the town gates...


    "Miss Ira. Going hunting?" (Town Guard 1)


    "Hmm? Yeah. I''ll be back in a bit. Need to get some stress out." (Ira)


    "Yes, of course,*mumble* glad the master warned us....." (Town Guard 1)


    Ira had finished her routine maintenance and was off to hunt some beasts. She was aware that the outskirts of the town she was currently in, Dosnun, had a forest filled with beasts.


    "What will it be today? Blood Hounds? Shadow Leopards? Those are hard to deal with....Maybe a Metal Liger? Nah. They stick to the inner parts. A Monstrous Mammoth? A Fire Ant is troublesome....I wish Knox was around....he''d help me find prey....eh?" (Ira)


    Ira had heard a rustling noise not too far from her. She knew that the direction in which she was heading led to the plains, a small patch of land where the Mammoths usually hung around. However, Mammoths were usually away at this time of the year.


    ''Well according to the townsfolk anyway.'' (Ira)


    Ira brushed aside the bushes that were blocking her view of the plains and tried to find the source of the sound.


    ''A Monstrous Mammoth! And an adult! Huh? Is that a gem on its forehead? Is it an Earth Beast? It''s also alone......a stray? Finally! An exciting fight!'' (Ira)


    Ira approached the beast slowly. Once she was less than 50 meters from it, she yelled at the top of her lungs. The beast was immediately startled and turned around to look at the source of the ruckus.


    It found a puny human staring at it excitedly. It tilted its head, wondering why this human, who looked to be in heat, was releasing such killing intent. It grew angry. It charged.


    "Yes! Come! I''m right here! Bring it!" (Ira)


    Ira met the Monstrous Mammoth head on. She raised her hands and caught the incoming ivory tusks. A game of strength ensued. Ira found herself slowly being pushed back.


    "GRAAA!" (Ira)


    Ira flexed her muscles. The red scales on her body seemed to grow in number. She could feel a small amount of strength rush into her. It was enough to stall the beast momentarily. It was exactly what she needed.


    "COME! AESTUS, REAP THE ASHES OF THY FOE!" (Ira)


    Ira did not really need to call out her Warhammer in such a ridiculous manner, however, she found it fun to call onto Aestus, the weapon her Master had forged for her, with such a chant.


    "Was there really a need for such a ridiculous chant, Mistress?" (???)


    A massive Warhammer, as tall as Ira, appeared next to her. What was even more surprising was the voice that followed.


    "C''mon Aestus! You know I love doing that! Don''t dampen the mood! Ignite!" (Ira)


    "As you command." (Aestus)


    The Warhammer was instantly shrouded in flames. At the same time, the Monstrous Mammoth, grown wary of its opponent, started to activate the Earth Gem on its forehead. An earthen aura surrounded the beast. suddenly a metal armor covered its head and legs along with its underbelly. Its back was now covered in metal spikes.


    "Woah! So this is what a B-ranked beast looks like. What fun! Let''s go, Aestus!" (Ira)


    Ira swung her weapon aiming at the side of the beasts head. The beast, now on full alert, swung its trunk at Ira, forcing her to block the blow. As Ira was blown back a little, the Mammoth trumpeted and started to charge. Ira waited till it was close and then swung her hammer again.


    "Impact Wave." (Ira)


    As the flaming hammer was nearing the beasts head, the air around the weapon seemed to compress and then immediately decompress.


    BOOM!


    An explosive sound rang out as the Mammoth was disoriented by the attack. Ira didn''t miss this opportunity and swung the hammer upwards, aiming at the base of the beasts skull.


    GONG!


    Ira was surprised to find that the attack hadn''t produced as much effect as she had thought it would.


    ''Aestus?'' (Ira)


    ''It seems that the Earth Gem doesn''t only protect the beast from the outside, Mistress. Shall I increase the heat?'' (Aestus)


    ''No. I''ll manage. I''ll use ''that''.'' (Ira)


    ''As reckless as ever.'' (Aestus)


    "*Snort* Berserk Swing." (Ira)


    The moment Ira used the skill, her eyes seemed to turn red, her scales receded back to her normal state and her muscles flexed, with veins bulging here and there. A massive killing intent filled the air and Ira lost control.


    "AAAAHHHH!" (Ira)


    Ira blacked out.


    ''Mistress! Mistress! Wake up!'' (Aestus)


    "Ugh....what? Oh...I used that skill....what happened?" (Ira)


    Ira woke up lying next to what seemed like the charred corpse of a large animal, resembling an elephant. She looked around and found the plains around her to be burnt out and numerous craters peppered the area.


    "I really need to get that under control." (Ira)


    "*Chuckles* Mistress....the skill name has ''Berserk'' in it....I doubt it is something to be controlled." (Aestus)


    "I guess you''re right....how much time passed?" (Ira)


    "Since I am but a sentient weapon, I cannot tell the passing of time." (Aestus)


    "Don''t be stupid. I know you can at least tell by the movement of the sun." (Ira)


    "As if I could see." (Aestus)


    "So says the one who keeps commenting on how untidy my workshop is." (Ira)


    "Tch. Fine. It has been close to the passing of two hours." (Aestus)


    "Only two?" (Ira)


    "You dealt with the Mammoth within a few minutes. You also exhausted all my Fire Mana with all your raging after." (Aestus)


    "So says the leecher who absorbs Mana from me." (Ira)


    "..." (Aestus)


    "Speechless, are we?" (Ira)


    "Hmph. Either way, should we not be returning?" (Aestus)


    "Yes, yes. I''m getting up. Ugh, my entire body hurts." (Ira)


    "Heh. That''s only the backlash for such a short usage. Imagine what would happen if you were to use it in a battlefield." (Aestus)


    "Probably bedridden for a month or more...." (Ira)


    "Undoubtedly. By the way, what exactly is the weapon that Mistress intend to give to the Guild Master?" (Aestus)


    "Well....he never had any preferences for weapons so...I thought I''d give him something that he can use for area attacks. I''m sure he already has close combat and long range combat handled." (Ira)


    "You place a lot of trust in his abilities?" (Aestus)


    "I do. He''s young, but, his potential is limitless." (Ira)


    "....I see. So what weapon is it?" (Aestus)


    "A Warscythe my dear Aestus, a Warscythe." (Ira)


    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Volume I End.

 Break and Reasons

    So...um...are you fellows confused? You must be! Well! So am I! Well, not actually. I just wrote like a maniac today. So here''s the thing. I wrote these many chapters to fulfill a deadline requirement that I had personally set for myself. Anywhoo....yeah...stuff happened and I demand a break! So I''m taking one. However, please vote in them polls and comment here about the story. Ask me questions. Because, while I am on break, it''s only a break from writing. So like...please. Ask questions! I love talking to people about my novel! Thanks a ton! And just a reminder....I''m still looking for an editor and an idea bouncer. If you really like my novel, please, I''ll let you look into its future (which might be nothing so...yeah).


    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    Adios! Ciao! Alvida!


    Author Out!

 Map and.....Stuff.

    Heyo guys...


    It has been a week. I think. Well, finals week it is for me. I''m gonna be busy, busy, busy. Chances are....you won''t be seeing me for...eh...three weeks or so. This mostly because I''m heading back home to India soon. However, the time might be shorter. Either way, I would like this to be a forum of sorts. I have sooo many ideas.....but not all of them can be implemented. I may have never said this before but I''m pretty inspired by many of the novels on this site. So, I really like the community here. People can be assholes sometimes but you guys have been really nice. Even the critiques gave actual constructive criticism. Anyway, I''m getting off track. Gimme ideas. Start a discussion! Oh and here''s a map I made using AutoRealm.


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    As you can see, the map is pretty blank. The original map had more stuff, but my friend recommended not to give many teasers. So I only dropped a few. One is pretty obvious....


    Anyway, I''ll be back soon. Start a discussion and I''ll join in.


    P.S.- Still looking for a Co-Author/Editor. If someone wants. Maybe if I get back to India I might have a friend who''d volunteer....

 Volume II- Prologue

    Volume II


    Prologue


    The Northern Mountains of Gai''n....


    "What news do you bring us, Sano?" (???)


    "Fellow members of the council, I bring bad tidings as well as some good ones." (Sano)


    "Enough of your posturing....tell us." (???)


    "*Ahem* Yes. A Void Beast appeared in Evoco. I managed to fend it off but-" (Sano)


    "What! Not only did you actively attract the attention of a possible agent but you did so in public!?" (???)


    "Calm, Caloisnam. You were saying, Elder Shanorath?" (???)


    "*Gulp*....Yes, King Canus. The Travelers have arrived and among them, I found a friend. He-" (Sano)


    "Bah! A Traveler as a friend of a dragon!? You''re growing old. How ca-" (Calom)


    "Enough!" (King Canus)


    Instantly the room was filled with silence. A formless but powerful pressure bore down on all the beings present in the room.


    "Elder Shanorath." (King Canus)


    "Yes, my King." (Sano)


    "Is it him?" (King Canus)


    "Yes, milord. The Wanderer has returned." (Sano)


    Audible gasps resounded across the room while Sano had a smirk on his face. Elder Caloisnam had a face filled with shock. The King had a smile on his face.


    "Good. good. This is good. Hmm...We will simply wait for him for now. He must have weakened considerably. Keep watch on him Shanorath. Now, Elder Briam, what news do you bring us?" (King Canus)


    "*Ahem* The Tribes have begun moving. It is believed that the mountains........." (Briam)


    Somewhere below the Southern Desert of Gai''n....


    Mina was not having a good day. Her father had just scolded her for using her Theria against the Desert Rats. He had found it demeaning to call upon the ''Sacred Theria'' to deal with mere rats.


    "Mina! What are you doing!? How could you lower yourself so much to use Theria against such lowly beasts!?" (Mina'' Father)


    "Bu-But Father! I couldn''t help it! I-It was calling on me!" (Mina)


    "Then control it! Haa....we will talk of this later. The Chief has called a meeting. We will talk about this later." (Mina''s Father)


    Recalling the conversation, Mina couldn''t help but feel frustrated. All of her friends had almost mastered their Theria and yet she still couldn''t control her outbursts. What made her even sadder was the way her parents treated her. Her father would treat her as though she was not his child, whereas her mother treated her as something that had ruined her ''perfect'' marriage. In the end, it was all because of her Theria. She simply looked too different. Her Father had even considered her to be a child of another man which in turn soured the relationship between all members of the family.


    "*Sigh*......I just wish I could get away from here...." (Mina)


    In the Chiefs Hut....


    "...Are you sure about this Chief?" (???)


    "Yes Erin, I am absolutely sure of this news. The other tribes have received the same report. This time, at the Gathering of the Tribes, we made sure of this. The Ancestors do not lie." (Chief)


    "Then...what are we planning to do?" (Mina''s Father)


    "We will wait, Gil. If the Ancestors proclaim that the mountains shall open and the seas will part then.....so shall it be." (Chief)


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    "It would seem that it is finally our turn to be freed from the Ancestral Lands." (Erin)


    South East of Gai''n......The Deadlands.


    "Is it as you have said, Caelum?" (???)


    "Yes, Great One. The Tribes have shown movement. Something big is happening. Perhaps..." (Caelum)


    "Speak Up!" (Great One)


    "Yes. It is my estimation that the Tribes are no longer to be restrained by the mountains." (Caelum)


    "Ha Ha! Good, good. Send the order. We will catch them off guard. We will slaughter and feast on those filthy things!" (Great One)


    "As you command." (Caelum)


    ''Just you wait, you shitty Vampire. I''m going to rip you apart and take everything you own.'' (Caelum)


    In an unknown place in Novus Mundus....


    "Let me go! Haven''t you have enough!?" (???)


    "Haha! And here you were acting so arrogant and mighty just a few days ago....such a weak will. Perhaps it is better to simply discard you after all. But then....I doubt returning will be a good option, no?" (???)


    "....You''re a monster." (???)


    "Oh? Where you cowed by the threat of death? But, you cannot truly die....you are like me...a Traveler. However, experiencing pain is another matter. I''m surprised that you even logged back in. Either you are really stupid or....really motivated. Are you a masochist? How amusing," (???)


    "My revenge..." (???)


    "Revenge? On who?" (???)


    "King! Alexander King! *Spit* That bastard who dared to kill me....." (???)


    "Killed you? Are you not alive and healthy right now? Or are you telling me there is someone who has already started killing players? No, no. Your personality shows that you''d rather throw in with that kind of people." (???)


    "This-This isn''t the Underworld?" (???)


    "Hahahaha! To think someone would believe that such a painful place is the Underworld! No, you aren''t dead. I took an interest in your class so I ordered my pet to abduct you while also get some takeaway for himself. *Chuckle*." (???)


    "Takeaway......" (???)


    "Ah, yes. The infamous Radiant City. What an eyesore it was. I''m glad I leveled the place. No survivors, I bet. Hmm?" (???)


    The mysterious figure looked outside the room it had housed its prisoner in. It saw a black shadow flying towards them. It swooped in and then merged with the humongous black spire that floated above them. The black spire hummed and grew in size.


    "...My pet brings me some interesting news. It speaks of a survivor. Someone with the talent to possibly wield its powers. Tell me, dear Mars, who is Rex Vagus?" (???)


    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Yo. I''m just gonna leave this here cause...it''s not like people will actually comment. I really need to get more used to Internet blogging....


    Anywhoo....lots of stuff is happening and guess what? There is a 50-50 that I can write more!!


    After a two week break and stuff of course.


    Buh-Bye!


    Author Out!

 Chapter - 1

    Chapter - 1


    Rex Vagus was having a great day. He had just successfully hunted a Monstrous Mammoth and traded the corpse in for 80 Gold. The receptionist had been surprised that someone had successfully killed a B-Ranked beast without damaging the beast''s corpse. There could be no dispute either as the Association Card had registered the kill to be legal. The other Beast Hunters hadn''t been too surprised. The equipment that Rex was wearing gave off the impression that he was quite skilled. His armor was light, but it gave off a sheen. He was wearing simple black leather gloves along with boots meant for quick movement. His chest and back were covered by a thin and light black armor that had intricate red runes on them.


    It had been three weeks since Rex had encountered the Metal Liger. In the three weeks since then, Rex had tried to stop growing the number of his skills and instead had started to solidify his foundations. The first thing he had tried to get a good grip on was his Unique Ability and the Void Element. He had discovered that while he had great control on the Void Element, he had no other reserves except his Inner Mana to draw from. This puzzled him as he was quite proficient in External Mana Manipulation of the other elements. He had decided to investigate this later. On the other hand, Rex hadn''t made any leeway with his UAB. One of the consequences of his repeated attempts to understand his ability had been an unfortunate title.


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Because of your reckless attempts to hunt beasts above your capabilities and failing each time, others refer to you as the Suicide Hunter.


    You have earned a title: Suicide Hunter


    Residents feel either extreme pity for you or loathe you for wasting your life.</td></tr></tbody></table>


    This title had let Rex feel what it was like to be an outcast. He had not felt the effects of his old title mostly because many people did not know of him being a survivor of the Black Calamity while those who did were either Travelers or Natives with a different disposition compared to the common residents. Now, people looked at him with the same pity he would have shown a poor crippled child. At first, Rex had been unaffected by it, however, it was when the loathing had started that he had truly started feeling frustrated.


    Another change that had occurred was in the form of a ''system announcement''.


    [table=darkred]<tr><td>DECREE OF THE GODS</td></tr><tr><td>The Gods have decided to remove auxiliary skills such as Running and Swimming from the Skill List.


    In addition, the Gods have begun the World Rending Event. This Event is something that will take place over two years, starting now. All Travelers, whether they like it or not, will be part of this Event.


    We have decided to warn all Travelers of this Event as this is the reason we have brought you into our world.


    Each of you will serve a purpose.</td></tr>[/table]


    Rex still hadn''t quite figured out why the ''Gods'' would announce such a thing. However, it didn''t affect him much so he didn''t give it much thought. He figured that the more ''Major Guilds'' would focus on ''World Events''.


    The players had come to classify ''Quests'' or missions in a few different ways, namely: Singular, Local, Area, Country, Continent and World class quests. These usually had a correlation with the rank or difficulty of the quest. Rex usually solved either Singular or Local quests, these quests usually had an impact on a single person or a small area like a village. Rex didn''t care much for fame, he was just trying to make a living in the game while having as much fun as he could. At least that had been his original plan. The moment Sano had disappeared coupled with the fact that his Beast Companion had been killed, Rex realized that things were not going to be as fun as he thought.


    Today, however, was a good day for Rex. He was going to meet some old friends today and finally, officially start the mission that would establish his ''Guild''. Many ''Guilds'' already existed, however, within the world of Novus Mundus where there were already such things such as Profession Guilds and the like, these ''Guilds'' were renamed as ''Clans''. Clans had the same functionality as a Players Guild would have in other games. Today would be the first step in helping Rex establish his clan in this world.


    During the beginning of the three weeks after Rex''s ''Awakening'', Regina had reached out to him and told him that Kazmain had asked for every Clan member was to convene at the Arano  Kingdom''s capital, Andura.  Rex had since journeyed Northeast until he had reached the hilly kingdom of Arano. Like Evoco, Andura practiced a discrimination-free policy.


    As Rex had journeyed through the kingdom to reach the capital, he had been awed by the different cultural practices. Since the kingdom was located just north of the desert, they had a fairly dry ecosystem and had difficulty hunting as most creatures here were usually reptiles. However, in the world of magic, anything is possible. When the Virule Empire had first annexed the Arano Kingdom, it was barely a gathering of tribes and had been labeled the ''Land of Barbarians''. The Aranians were usually of a sturdy build and were good at fighting, something that made them good mercenaries. The Arano Kingdom soon had a nickname, ''The Mercenary Paradise''.


    The Virule Empire is the largest domain that any one race ruled over, the race, this time, being humans. , It was a vast area that spanned from the western coast to the eastern gulf, from the northern mountains to the desert in the south.


    Rex walked down the worn city street. The city of Andura was the headquarter city for the Adventurer''s Association. Like any typical fantasy game, this place functioned as a good place for people to exchange monster corpses and do ''requests'' for money. The city itself had a rough outlook to it. The buildings were quite standard, brick and mortar, open windows, a passable drainage system and well laid out streets. The nobility was of the righteous kind, at least most of them proclaimed to be. The citizens lived quite happily and boisterously. It was the mercenary capital after all.


    "Mmh! Today I''m going to beat the crap out of those outrageous morons....no wait....those guys must already be more powerful than me....*sigh*...Let''s see..." (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Title (Currently Equipped)</td><td>Suicide Hunter</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Enchanter</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Void</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>Survivor''s Instinct</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth 25%)</td><td>Wind (18%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (20%)</td><td>Water (5%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Void (40%)</tr></td><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Lightning (51%)</td><td>Paralysis (Medium)</td></tr><tr><td>Void (93%)</td><td>Physical (20%)</td></tr><tr><td>Poison (5%)</td><td>Fire (4%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''><b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.Mana Meditation


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Earth Manipulation


    Fire Manipulation


    Void Manipulation


    Aura Sense


    Enchanting


    Wind Manipulation


    Physical Skill Set


    Sword Fighting (Basic)


    Mana Sight


    Elemental Weapon Mimicry - Sword


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    Rex grinned as he looked at his status. He had made considerable progress. The Elemental Weapon Mimicry was something he had tried to do on a whim. It had taken him nearly two weeks to just use that skill and he was sure that he wouldn''t master it anytime soon. The Physical Skill Set was mostly basic fighting techniques that he had practiced and added to his skill list in the last week. Mana Sight had been crucial in helping him come up with the idea behind the mimicry skill, simply passing Mana through one''s eyes wouldn''t do, he had to circulate the Mana through his eyes to create a thin film that would allow him to ''see'' Mana. His sight wasn''t perfect just yet. In addition to his skills, his enchanted armor set was also a great asset. Apparently Sano had simply handed the blacksmith enchanted materials to work with. The armor improved his overall physical and primary element resistance by 10%. Also, the gloves had an earth enchantment which made it suitable for punching and climbing. His boots were wind enchanted, designed for speed and fast travel.


    Rex walked into the inn where he was staying. It was a well-lit place with a bar and ten single rooms and five double. Unfortunately, unlike the high-class inns, it didn''t have its cooling system. It was a small place that charged 200 bits per night. The currency system of the world was entirely based on gold. Apparently the world agreed that gold was, more or less, the least useful. A fact that Rex found amusing as gold had been so coveted in his world mostly due to its many uses. In this world, 1 piece of White Gold was worth 100 Gold which was worth 10,000 bits (1WG is 100G and 1G is 100 bits). Other metals in this world were more sought after as they served a better use in combat and against beasts. The only reason White Gold was so precious was because it was gold mixed with silver. Silver was considered a holy metal because of its effects on the undead.


    Rex walked up to the innkeeper and asked for his lunch. The innkeeper told him that it would be ready in a few minutes. Rex looked around and found himself a seat near one corner of the establishment. He was used to eating here and listening to the gossip of what was happening around town. As Rex sat down he reminisced to the time after he woke up from his so-called ''Awakening''.  He had woken up in an unknown bed and had found himself alone in his room. He had then been confronted by his sister as to what had happened. Apparently, he had passed out for almost a day. When Rex explained what had happened to him, his sister seemed like she wanted to choke the life out of him. Her exact words had been, "Why is it that ever since you arrived you''ve been involved in something or the other!? You''re just a big lump of disaster walking around!"


    Rex couldn''t help but chuckle as he remembered that particular lecture. Sighing, he sank into his thoughts.


    ''Well....if it was chaos that I wanted then....I got it..*sigh*...'' (Rex)


    "Is this seat taken?" (???)


    "Hmm?" (Rex)


    Rex looked up and found two people wearing hooded cloaks looking down at him. The voice he just heard sounded familiar to him but he wasn''t sure where he had heard it.


    "I''m sorry but, I''m waiting for my friends." (Rex)


    "Well...you don''t mind if we sit then?" (??)


    Rex looked up in surprise as he recognized the second voice. He had heard it not too long ago.


    "Nox? Kazmain? What''s with the hoods?" (Rex)


    "They are traveler cloaks. Good for hiding my handsome face!" (Kazmain)


    "You mean to hide your bruises." (Nox)


    "Ha ha! I did hear about an old lady beating the crap out of you!" (???)


    Rex leaned his head to look around Kazmain to locate the source of the newcomer.


    "Selene? Sarah? Ha ha! How are you guys doing?" (Rex)


    "It''s Fel, Boss. And Selene''s Ira. I''m good. How are you? I''ve been hearing weird stuff from Reg. Is it true you called an Elder Dragon an old man? And shouted at him?" (Fel)


    "Well, it''s not like I didn''t expect it." (Ira)


    "Well, looks like everyone is here! Shall we get started?" (Kazmain)


    "Wait. What about Mike and Rohan?" (Rex)


    "Well Amicus Tork and Caelum, as they like to call themselves, well....the former is kinda far up north....like far up. Don''t know how he ended up there. I mean, so far all the Ork players, well the ones I know of, end up in the empire. As for the pervert, well, he ended up becoming an undead cause he got frisky with a Goddess." (Fel)


    "...What?" (Rex)


    "You heard it right, boss. Anyway, he''s doing quite well anyway. He said that Kazmain should hold his position for a bit while he sorts stuff out." (Ira)


    "Sorts stuff out?" (Rex)


    "Alright, alright let''s forget about that bag of bones. We''ve got a meeting to start." (Kazmain)


    "Right. Barkeep! Five drinks and postpone my meal!" (Rex)


    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hello guys,


    Here''s my rant (which is somewhat IMPORTANT):


    I think I''ll start writing now. The only problem is the lack of inspiration, motivation, and stuff. I''ve been reading tons of stuff here recently trying to find the right flow for myself. Did anyone read Sage Fall? Pretty good IMHO. Anyway, things are slowing down for me. I''m going to lose motivation also soon considering that I''m getting a new PC rig (Yay, me!). I''ll be interning soon, going to the gym and all that normal life stuff that normal people do. If any of y''all noticed....this is a 2100(approx.) word chapter! And I''d like everyone to comment and give me ideas. Like I''ve said before- I have an overarching idea but the devil is in the details. Also, I''m more of a one girl romance type guy for novels. So sometime back someone didn''t want Haley to be romantic interest numero uno so....go ahead guys. Gimme your opinions.


    That''s that.


    Have fun. Next chapter in a week? Maybe?


    Adios. Ciao. Alvida and whatnot.


    <hr />


    Oh! And please point out any errors! Thanks!

 Chapter - 2

    Chapter - 2


    Rex looked around at his friends. Kazmain did not resemble his other self that much, not only due to his tanned skin. He had bright red hair which, Rex noticed, had a few flames going on and off. Adding that to his glowing green eyes and goofy grin, he completed the picture of a creepy elf. He was dressed in a flowing white robe with gold linings and black gloves. Rex also noticed a small animal snoozing on top of Kazmain''s hair. it looked like a small monkey.


    ''A summoned beast maybe? He was going to be a summoner after all...'' (Rex)


    Next Rex turned his attention to Ira who was currently trying to coax Nox into another round of drinks with her and failing. She was tanned like her counterpart was and had a hair similar to Kazmain''s. Her eyes were a blood red and she seemed taller and bigger than he remembered her to actually be. In fact, Rex swore he saw a few bulging muscles underneath the light armor she was wearing. What was most noticeable was the large Warhammer strapped to her back. Rex surmised that she was choosing to battle at close range, again.


    Rex''s eyes flitted to Nox, someone who he had met a few weeks ago. He seemed to have not changed much. He was dressed completely in black, loose black trousers along with a black hooded shirt. There was no visible weapons or armour on him. He would usually give off an unassuming impression, however currently, his attire and the company he was in was making him stand out a little.


    As their drinks arrived, Rex''s eyes turned to his trusted aide, Fel. An unassuming bespectacled woman who gave off a typical air of a secretary, Fel was 5''8", quite busty and curvaceous, with blonde hair and dark blue eyes. She had fair skin and a demeanour that suggested that she was just trying to make herself unnoticed. Rex remembered how this girl who was two years older than him, had tried to be an Assassin in another game and had failed. He wondered if she had found a class suited to her.


    "Gah! This drink tastes like sour milk mixed with alcohol and strawberries!" (Kazmain)


    "...First, what? Second, don''t insult the food or I won''t have a place to stay." (Rex)


    "Watch your tongue, Vice Guild Master. We wouldn''t want our Guild Master to be homeless." (Fel)


    "Alright, fine." (Kazmain)


    "So Little Boss, shall we begin?" (Ira)


    "Who''s the ''Little Boss''!? Haa...Right! First Order of Business, Show Status." (Rex)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Rex Vagus</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Draco-Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Title (Currently Equipped)</td><td>Suicide Hunter</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>None</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Enchanter</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Void</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>Survivor''s Instinct</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth 25%)</td><td>Wind (18%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (20%)</td><td>Water (5%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Void (40%)</tr></td><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Lightning (51%)</td><td>Paralysis (Medium)</td></tr><tr><td>Void (93%)</td><td>Physical (20%)</td></tr><tr><td>Poison (5%)</td><td>Fire (4%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''><b>Spoiler</b> : <input type=''button'' value=''Show'' class=''spoilerButton''>


    Mana Meditation


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Mana Condensation


    Earth Manipulation


    Fire Manipulation


    Void Manipulation


    Aura Sense


    Enchanting


    Wind Manipulation


    Physical Skill Set


    Sword Fighting (Basic)


    Mana Sight


    Elemental Weapon Mimicry - Sword


    </td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Hee! A Suicidal Guild Master! Not bad! Lookie here!" (Kazmain)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Kazmain Fragor</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Halfling (Fire Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>Combat Mage</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Summoner</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Space</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>Dreamscape</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth(0%)</td><td>Wind(35%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire(40%)</td><td>Water(0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Space(13%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Fire Manipulation


    Wind Manipulation


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Hand-to-Hand Combat (Expert)


    Space Grasp


    Short Range Teleportation(Basic)


    Summoning</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Blessings</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Divine Blessing of the God of Dreams, Kuranesh</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Huh! Divine Blessing...." (Ira)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Ira Ferrous</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Mixed (Draconian Dark Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>Spirit Blacksmith</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Magi Engineer</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Fire</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>Life</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>Mind Over Damage</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (20%)</td><td>Wind (10%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (30%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Life(30%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Berserk Swing


    Fire Manipulation


    Earth Manipulation


    Blacksmithing (Collective Skill)


    Heal (Intermediate)


    Rejuvenate


    Infuse Life


    Hammer Techniques (Basic)


    Mana Sense


    Mana Manipulation


    Physical Skill Set</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "..." (Nox)


    <table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Nox</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Elf</td></tr><tr><td>Title</td><td>Watcher in the Dark</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>Assassin</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Librarian</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Wind</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>Memory Bank</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (35%)</td><td>Wind (30%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (-10%)</td><td>Water (0%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Resistances</td></tr><tr><td>Poison(30%)</td><td>Physical(20%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Wind Manipulation


    Assassination Techniques (Expert)


    Physical Skill Set


    Earth Manipulation


    Personal Library


    Hand to Hand Combat (Intermediate)</td></tr></tbody></table>


    "Ooh! Everyone is so impressive!" (Fel)


    Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.<table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Fel</td></tr><tr><td>Race</td><td>Mixed (Dark Elf)</td></tr><tr><td>Class</td><td>Merchant</td></tr><tr><td>Profession</td><td>Alchemist</td></tr><tr><td>Primary Element</td><td>Earth</td></tr><tr><td>Secondary Element</td><td>Water</td></tr><tr><td>Higher Element</td><td>Plant</td></tr><tr><td>Deviant Element</td><td>???</td></tr><tr><td>Unique Ability</td><td>>Unawakened<</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Affinities</td></tr><tr><td>Earth (15%)</td><td>Wind (0%)</td></tr><tr><td>Fire (5%)</td><td>Water (10%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Plant(10%)</td></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Skill List</td></tr><tr></tr><tr><td colspan=''2''>Merchant Skill Set (Intermediate)


    Physical Skill Set


    Hand to Hand Combat


    Alchemy


    Earth Manipulation</td></tr></tbody></table>


    ''Not bad. Kazmain''s a Combat Mage? That makes two close combatants. No, wait, three, counting Nox. So he''s a librarian...wow. Those UABs sound nice. Eh? A Dark Elf with a Plant Affinity? Nice.'' (Rex)


    "...Well, color me impressed. Now then, Kazmain. What did you gather us here for?" (Rex)


    "Two things. The first is ''Clan Creation'' and the second is the task you set Nox on." (Kazmain)


    "Ah....alright. What do you have for us?" (Rex)


    "Fel? Why don''t you start?" (Kazmain)


    "Fine. In terms of finance, we''re currently only at the entry level. However, the people that are part of my domain are already expanding across the Empire. We should be moving to other areas soon. The accounting process has started and I should have an estimate ready for you in a few months." (Fel)


    "Thanks. Nox?" (Kazmain)


    "Hm. My, no our, network is spread out across various taverns and merchant guilds. In that matter, I also asked Fel to assist me. In terms of reach, we haven''t infiltrated any major organizations in this world just yet. However, someone that is a part of our....Clan...is garnering a lot of attention." (Nox)


    "We don''t want a big reveal just yet. We''ve always liked to lay low and do things as we pleased." (Kazmain)


    "Don''t worry, he''s worked with me before, he''s under Caelum now but he''s not announcing his ties just yet. He''s quite loyal. Unfortunately, he has the strange luck to fall into situations that cause his fame to skyrocket." (Nox)


    "Basically, a protagonist of a light novel." (Kazmain)


    Everyone had a wry smile when they heard that.


    "*Chuckle* Alright, I made my quip. Ira?" (Kazmain)


    "I haven''t been able to get in touch with my division but I''ll be borrowing Fel and Nox for that." (Ira)


    Both Nox and Fel nodded in affirmation to Ira''s statement.


    "I see. Alright. In Tork''s case, he said he''s working the Orks for now but he''s quite sure his division has also started their work. Caelum temporarily handed his authority to me, but, we don''t utilize him unless there''s a war or a raid so all I''ve done on his behalf is to check on his division. They''re developing splendidly. As for my part, I''ve been focusing more on the creation part. A few users have already created Clans, however, those guys have the backing of powerful Natives." (Kazmain)


    "Powerful? In what terms?" (Rex)


    "Politically for some and well....strength for others. We might need a backer too. I''m gonna work on that but I think everyone here should also look for someone willing to back us. Or we could go the personal power route. However, none of us are that strong. Well, except for you Rex." (Kazmain)


    "Me? How?" (Rex)


    "Well....having the Void Element is plenty powerful. If we could advertise that then maybe..." (Fel)


    "No. I need to keep that hidden for now. Nox can fill you in on why." (Rex)


    "Ah! Speaking of....we''re done with this topic for now so let''s move on to Nox''s report." (Kazmain)


    Nox nodded and then stood up.


    "The Guild Master asked me to compile a report on an individual referred to as the ''Dark Emperor''. Unfortunately, the only information I have is from the beta phase. His current whereabouts are unknown to me." (Nox)


    Everyone had an expression of surprise when they heard Nox''s report. It was rare for him to be unable to find a person.


    "I see. Fill me in on his history." (Rex)


    "Yes. From what I have gathered, his nature is somewhat whimsical. In other words, he''s unpredictable. I have not found any concrete motives in his actions. Everything or every action he has taken seemed to have been unplanned. Even then, mostly due to his affinity with the Void Element, he was practically unstoppable in the beta phase. There are no recorded ways to counter a Void Elemental, which is why nations here tend to evacuate as soon as they hear news of one." (Nox)


    "If what you are saying is true then...how did I not encounter him? In the beta phase?" (Rex)


    "I am not entirely sure of your whereabouts at the time. The history books were quite vague about that. However, the Dark Emperor, as tyrannical as he was, didn''t really like to involve himself in matters. He just did as he pleased, which is why understanding him is harder." (Nox)


    "Hmm....fine. Continue to keep a lookout and compile a report on Tenebris. Kazmain and Fel, accelerate the gathering of resources. Nox, let your division spread and help us find a backer and a foothold. Ira, currently I don''t have a job for you. Once, we take off, you''ll know what to do. Everyone understands?" (Rex)


    Everyone at the table nodded their heads.


    "Yo Boss, do you have instructions for Caelum and Amicus? I can pass ''em down." (Kazmain)


    "Ah! Yes, tell Amicus to take his time and gather up his forces. Tell Caelum to do the same thing when he has the time. Also, tell them both I''d like to meet them." (Rex)


    "Got it." (Kazmain)


    "Alright. We''re done with the official business. More drinks, anyone?" (Rex)


    "Sorry, but, I will have to take my leave. I have a little work I have to do." (Nox)


    "Oh, alright then. See you around, Nox." (Rex)


    Nox got up and said his goodbyes.


    "Aww. Too bad. Anyway, I don''t mind another round. What about you guys?" (Ira)


    "Sure." (Fel)


    "I don''t mind." (Kazmain)


    "Alright. Barkeep! Another round!" (Rex)


    "Hehe! Hey, Little Boss-" (Ira)


    "Who''s ''Little''!?" (Rex)


    "Aww don''t be offended. I got you a present~. Here!" (Ira)


    Saying so, Ira suddenly took out a large object out of thin air. Upon a closer look, Rex discovered that it was a weapon. A Warscythe.


    "Oh." (Rex)


    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Hey guys....


    I''m sincerely sorry for the delay. My family and I went for a little vacation this week and I totally didn''t realise the lack of Wi-Fi. Well here''s the delayed chapter. Didn''t get much time to write the next chapter so yeah....On another note....Tomorrow is my birthday and so I''m relatively free from all obligations. Hence, I will have time to write. Unless Black Flag and Skyrim pull me back in again. Replaying old games can be addictive. Forgive me!


    Anyway, for those of you still reading...Thank you for your patience!


    See ya when I see you!