《Conqueror Online: Soul Summoner》 Chapter 00 - Prologue (Revised) Chapter 00 - Prologue On the eve of Christmas, when everyone is busy in preparation for the coming holiday. People here and there were purchasing gifts, preparing a feast, calling their loved ones and passing on seasons greetings. Not anyone had been prepared for what was being presented on the news all over the world. Crimson Tech, the leading company in terms of gaming, who had released several online games which became known worldwide is currently announcing the release of their latest game. It wouldn''t have surprised everyone if it''s just one of the games they usually released. No one would''ve thought that the first words that was mentioned by the CEO and owner of Crimson Tech, James Hartland will have a large impact to every people who were listening or watching the announcement. The words "Virtual Reality" have cought masses by surprise. Many people were hopeful of this and some had thought that they would not have the chance to witness it in their lifetime, but still anxiously waited for the technology to appear. Many thought that it was just prank but they cannot deny the ones that was announcing the news, Crimson Tech and especially the owner of the said company. It''s not only Virtual Reality but also a "Full Dive" experience. If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. This means that the gamer will be completely immersed within the game. These immediately garnered comments from the critics, but was ignored especially when previews of the game were shown. 99% realism, pure reality within fantasy, a game unlike anyone has ever seen. Knights on top a horselike mount, ferocious beast and majestic dragons. Everyone at first were speechless, but after, questions after questions were thrown. The majority of the questions are "When will it be released?!". Then once again, the CEO of Crimson Tech announce the next shocking news. The game would be released sooner that everyone thought. Chapter 01 - Shin Asuka (Revised) Chapter I : Shin Asuka In an abandoned warehouse, in a port in the southern district of New York, loud noises could be heard, but no one bothered to check what it is. The noises were coming from people. Yelling, cursing, threatening, this were from people of different groups called gangs frequent in the southern part of New York. And in this cold evening, the low temperature were not noticed as the action that was happening within the warehouse pierces the cold with burning vigor and anger within the "gang war" that was in full boom. Every single person in this gang war was going nuts. Punches and kick were thrown. Swinging crowbar and every kind of weapons found in the street were being used. In the middle of the raging torrent between several gangs that are at war, there was a group of 13 teens who was standing out of all the rest. The reason that they stand out, one is that not one of them had past 20 years of age, second, pile upon pile of bodies can be seen around them. Third, there carefree way of disposing thugs or enemy gangs were awe inspiring. With not much effort, each people that ganged up against any of the teens were ruthlessly disposed off. There is a young man among the teens that was being avoided at all cost by their enemies. Anyone that has guts enough to try his might against him end up on the floor with only whites in their eyes. This young man efficiently knocked out any who faces him with minimal movements, a swift strike and deadly accuracy which usually ended up in one hit defeat(kill) on any foe that gets close. He was the leader and the strongest in the group of teens that was sweeping away enemy gang members. His name is Shin Asuka. Shin is a 17 year old martial art expert. He fights like a demon and was merciless to anyone that becomes his enemies. With a bored look on his face and black messy hair, Shin is tall for his age and has a solid build that can withstand blow after blow if one can be lucky enough to hit him. However, none of the people there was able to even touch him nor his companions. When he moves, he was like a whirlwind and whatever item he picked up becomes a weapon in his hands. Shin is a part of a group that was supporting one of the gangs that are fighting in the warehouse. When Shin''s group joined the fray, the opposing gangs lost hope, some stayed but others ran. With every movement made, man would fall. They were young but they are also the source of fear and awe to many of the gang members in the southern Ner York. As the fight concluded, only few remaining people and a group were left standing. Shin''s group who was standing inthe middle of bodies and the group they were supporting as well as other supporting gangs that is allied with the. In their midst, an uproar could be heard from the leader of the gang. Leader of the gang: Bwahahah! That was fun! Ain''t had that for quite awhile now, right Shin? Shin: Sorry about that brother Guy, we arrived late. It''s because Cray here have to go and make a stop at his gran''s house. Kid with an evil eye, Cray: What are you talking about? We would have been able to leave earlier if you and Celena did not volunteer to help granny to clean the shop. Chinese girl, Celena: What did you say!? Aren''t you thankful that we help gran, out of the goodness of our heart? Hmmp! Cray: Yeah right, you just wanted Gran''s sweet cookies as a reward. Celena: (blush) Nuuhh..! Boss Guy: No biggie, you kids had done more than enough, even if you came hours late, we could have finish them ourselves but with some casualties but hey! All''s well that ends well. Guy was the boss of the gang that Shin was close with. Shin came to know Guy right after he moved in the area and when they had a confrontation. When they fought Guy was the only one who did not show fear or giving up. Even after he was beaten by Shin, he kept standing up, along with his group. This formed respect and became fast friends. From then on, Shin was introduced to his gang which at first, looked scary but overtime, he learned that it was composed of people who wanted to band together to stop the other gangs from extorting money and threatening the neighborhood they lived in. Shin: What had cause this anyway? Usually, every gang in the area knows your reputation? Boss Guy: Eh? Some guy had gathered the old gangs that we cleaned up previously and plotted revenge on us. They thought, they can overpower us with their numbers.. Hah! Celena: They never learn do they, ahahah! Huge man called Garr: Let''s break their arms and legs so they won''t do this again. Show them not to mess with the folks in the neighborhood. Boy in glasses, Crest: Dude, that''s too much. And besides, that won''t be beneficial with us in the future. Let''s have the boss deal the consequences, we''re just helpers here. Garr: Bah! Fine! You''re right, if we break them, we won''t have punching bags anymore bwahahaw.. Shin: (scratches his head while watching his companions) Eheheh.. is that fine with you boss? Since were done here, we''re going home. I still have practice with the old masters in my place. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. Crest: Yeah, I still have to do some assignments you know? Shin: As you can see, my friend''s all have some things to do and jobs to finish as well. Boss Guy: Like I said, no worries Shin. I''m thankful that you came, really save our asses some bruises. Cray: Like you couldn''t handle them boss, if we arrive any later, there wouldn''t be any people left for us to beat. The rest of the gang burst in laughter at the banter between their boss and Shin''s group. Shin and his companions were respected and loved by the whole gang member and the people in the neighborhood. They were helpful and always stops when someone needs assistance. While Shin and co. were going their separate ways, Crest suddenly asked Shin about the news that just came out 2 days ago. Crest: Shin, what do you think about the news the other day? Shin: Oh, you mean the new game that''s being released by that big company. What is it, a virtual reality game right? Crest: Yeah, that''s it. Are you interested with it. They say that anything goes there. I read that if you have certain skills in real life, it will carry over to the game and adds it as an additional skill for you. Cray: Oooh, I''m going to buy one of those once it''s released. Celena: So, your all interested with the game as well huh. Shin: It''s not bad but let''s face it. Not all of us can get the game. I bet it''s way expensive as heck to buy one of those. I saw the console, and its not just a box, it''s size is like a freaking cockpit of a helicopter. You''ll need a big room for it and a lot of money. Althou our place is huge and empty, it''s a pity we need the money for everyday needs.. Cray: You know.. Shin: Come on Cray, you know we don''t want to take money from you. If your parents finds out your hanging with us, they''d ship you in a box and send you to a military school. Cray: Fuck! They''ve already done that once. It''s a good thing I escaped and beg, ahahah. Crest: Yeah, so that''s not an option for us. For me, I might touch my savings to get one. Shin: How about you Celena, are you going to get one too? You''re restaurant in downtown is booming, isn''t it? Celena: (sigh) Yeah, but even though it''s like that, I don''t get much you know. Shin: (sigh) I do want one as well.., I want to try adventuring too, especially with the rest of you guys. (sigh) Let''s forget it for now and just work hard to save money. Some day, we might be able to one. The rest of the group had separated and had gone their own way. Walking back home, Shin was still thinking about the game when he heard gun shots close by. Shin, curious about the loud gunshot, run swiftly to the place where the gunshot were heard. When Shin get there, a movie like scene were 2 men, still shooting at the other group and 1 was unconcious on the floor, while another man in a suit was hunch down on the other side of the car being protected by the two men in black. Shin was used to this kind of scene because every week, this action like scene happens in the streets of New York were gangs run rampant. When Shin was loosing interest, the two men that was protecting the man in suit fell and was shot by the other side. The man in suit notice Shin and the two stared at each other. There was resignation in the eye of the man, knowing that it was his time or he is ready to get caught by the other group. Shin: Che! I wasn''t planning on this but it''s not in my character to just watch another who needs help. While the other group approached the man in suit and started dragging him to their car, Shin moved silently and easily cought up to the group of armed men. Even though shin was still young, he was trained by masters and elders of martial arts. He was already proficient in the killing techniques at such a young age. So even though his confronting armed men, he did not bat an eye and proceeded to eliminate the group one by one. Shin did not use killing moves when he was in the gang war earlier but at this moment, each of his strike is ruthless and focus on the part of the body which will break easily or fell a man dead. Shin can also used various things on his surroundings as a weapon, so when Shin had picked up a broken glass from the car, he used it to end the lives of the men that was dragging the man in suit. They did not even realized what was happening. Once every single one had been taken care of, Shin looked again at the man gaping at him at what happened. Shin turned around after and was ready to leave. The man quickly stand up and got his composure. He quickly chased after Shin, the man that saved his life. Man in suit: Wait! Please don''t leave! Shin: What do you want? I don''t need thanks okay, I did it because I wanted to. Man in suit: Even so, you still save my life, and I wont stop until I repay you. Shin turned around to face the man but stops when he finally recognize the man in front of him. Shin: You! Your.. Man in suit: That''s right. My name is James Hartland and I owe you my life. Chapter 02 - Chance Encounter Chapter II : Chance Encounter Shin didn''t expect that the man he just saved was James Hartland, owner and CEO of Crimson Tech. The maker of the now much desired game, Conqueror Online. Shin was now seated in a cafe a bit far from where the shootout occurred. Facing James who was beaming at him with kind and thankful eyes. James: So, may I know the name of my savior? Shin: Guh... Savior? ...Shin. James: Shin. Again, thank you so much for saving me. (bowing magnificently) Shin: Your seem different from your image when you were on the tv. James: You think so? Well, this is the real me. Of course I couldn''t show that in front of everyone. They''d probably laugh at me and those old men at my company may take advantage of me when I show any form of weakness. Shin: Okay, I get your point, but why am I here. Those guys who wanted you should not be able to follow you here further. James: It''s not that. I''ve said before, I would like to reward you for saving my life. While I was thinking that my life will start in captivity, there you came to my rescue~ Please tell me anything that you need, if I can get it, I will get it for you. Shin: I said it''s fine.. right. I did it because I want to, not to get any reward. James: I understand bu.. if someone shows kindness to me, whoever they are, I will give back ten.. no hundred fold. It''s not often that someone shows me kindness this days. Everyones trying to take advantage of me where ever I go, almost forgot the feeling of someone helping without any hidden motives. Shin noticed the sadness in James'' eyes whenever he thought about his life. He realized that even with his status and life, James was still a normal guy who needed a friend. While James became talkative in front of him, like they were long acquaintance. Shin always thought that it always happen when he helped someone. It''s also the reason why Shin became well known in the neighborhood as well as becoming the leader of his group. Everyone felt his kindness and calm demeanor. Is it his looks? because he is young? Or because he is strong? Shin does not know why himself. Shin remembers the time when he had the same eyes before meeting his masters and companion. It was also the same eyes his close friends have when he met them the first time. Eyes of sadness, loneliness and helplessness. Thinking about his friends, he suddenly had an idea. Since James kept telling him that he must reward him, he knows what favor to ask. James: Shin! At least allow me to do something for you. I won''t take no for an answer. Shin: Geez! Fine, then I know what to ask if it isn''t too much. James: ANYTHING! Please tell me. Shin: The game that you''ve created. I''m interested in it. I heard it was expensive. We saw on the announcement, how the large machine for full dive would be and could guess what it will cost. James: Eh? If it''s just the game I would be happy to give you a full dive unit. But just to make things clear, the one''s we are selling are the minitiarize version of it, the helmet with visor, to make it cost effective to our customers. Didn''t you watch the advertisement in tv''s? Shin: For real!? Uh.. no, we''re quite busy here in the southern part of New York, and as you can see, it''s not like the northern part, this side isn''t for the wealthy. James: I understand what you mean. No worries, I would be glad to give you a dive maching just for you! Shin: Yes.. but not one. James: Huh? What do you mean. Shin: I know this may be asking too much but I will become selfish this once only for my friends. I need 13 units to play the games. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. James: 13 units.. hmmm... are the ones who''s going to use this, as strong as you? Shin: Of course! They are a part of my group, they have to be strong... James: Great! Then no problem. Done. It''s actually not enough and I think that it''s still small in comparison to what you''ve done for me. Shin: Th-then? James: Like I said. 13 units would be delivered for you. Give me the names of your friends. You''ll be surprised when you get it. Shin: Ah? Okay I guess. Thank you! (Shin bowed in front of James with gratitude) My friends and I dreamed on playing this game together ever since it was announced. James: It actually comes with a condition if you will accept. Shin: Condition? James: Yes... I.. I want you to become my friend. Not because I''m taking advantage or anything.. I just wanted a friend to talk to.. if.. you don''t mind. Shin: Not at all. (smile) James: Really!? Hahah! Do you have a phone Shin? I would need your address as well. Shin: Oh sure, here, let me register you to my phone. James and Shin registered each others as friends. James also reached out to Shin and grasp his hand for a handshake. After, James'' companions came to pick him up and the two separated and left the cafe. James POV James were now heading back home but was still thinking about his new friend, Shin. He was moved by the sincerity and kindness of the boy. Even though the reward he had given him cost quite a sum for regular people, he never thought of Shin as taking advantage of him. He was even doing it for his friends. His interest of Shin grew more as he went back to the moment the boy had rescued him. Shin moved fluidly, each step not making a sound, each strike does minimal movement but were deadly at the same time. Not many could move that way, and Shin was still young. He did not forget that Shin had killed the men that was trying to kidnapped him, but Shin did not even showed emotions when killing them. James understand that Shin may also be like him. He had a hard life before coming to where he is now, that''s also why he felt at ease with his company. He genuinely wanted Shin to be his friend. It''s been a while when James felt like a teen when he was conversing with just a colleage after coming from school. He missed the feeling from the now that he has to be careful at all times. James thought as well, if he had a body guard with Shin''s skill, he would not worry about danger anymore, but was just a wishful thinking. James life was targeted countless time, by his peers, other companies. This time, when he announced the game, it grew more to the extent that he was almost killed or kidnapped. "I have to think of some way to stay safe". But James thought comes back to Shin and his request. Shin requested the game. He cannot contain his excitement of him playing the game. In reality, it was still experimental. They covered the safety measures for users but the game itself has it''s own life. The technology to create the game should still not exist and would take several more decade to produced. James just became lucky, he stumbled upon a relic that helped him create the game. The relic he found in some ruins became the core of the game''s server after countless days and months of studying. He is still not sure much about it and many or most parts are still alien to him. He also thinks that this technology or relic did not originate from this world. He could not wait to give the unit to Shin. With his skills, his personality, the possibility within the game is limitless. He could only think of what legend Shin would make within the game, Conqueror Online. Chapter 03 - Preparation (Revised) Chapter III : Preparation Shin went home after separating with James from the cafe. Shin''s home is a large compound serving as a martial art''s dojo right next to the orphanage. Even though it''s a place known by everyone on the neighborhood, there was not a lot of students enrolling on it. One main reason is the lack of equipment and the location, as it being on the southern side of New York, were majority of the population were almost lawless, gang wars happening here and there, and where outcast and criminals hide to. Anyone outside this area who were interested in learning were afraid of the place and stirs away of it. Shin headed straight to the kitchen carrying groceries he picked up along the way, and started preparing the food. Shin was the first student of this dojo who was not afraid of living there. Every master who teaches at the dojo were kind and understanding. Although, they are lacking funds, they still live their lives and does not get tired with practice and drills to keep themselves at peak performance. Shin was one of the student that is task to cook for the entire dojo and because the masters does not know how to prepare proper food in the first place. While preparing food, one of the master named Hao, came into the kitchen. Hand to hand combat, Master Hao: The fragrance of the food you make is always much appreciated Shin. Shin: Master Hao! (Shin bowed to show respect) Master Hao: Bah! No need for that when we''re not within the dojo. By the way, even though the food smells great, as usual, I smell something else from you. Shin: Eh? (Shin scratch his chin and feign ignorance) What is it master, do I smell bad that even it even affects the smell of the food? Master Hao: You know what I mean, tell me what happened. I smell blood in you boy. Shin: Master is always so sharp. I even made so the food will have extra spices to smell better (sigh). Shin tells what happened to his master upon saving James and eliminating the attackers one by one. Since Shin was the first student, all the masters dote on him and thought him all they know. Shin has 4 masters in the dojo. Hao is the hand to hand master that teaches several form of weaponless martial arts. When Shin first came to the dojo, he was 6 then, and does not have memories of his past. Shin then has a lifeless eyes, shows that he suffered until coming to the dojo. He was taken care of the old master and gradually life returned to his eyes. At the same time, learning what the master thought him like a sponge. Shin was a genius fighter. A prodigy that comes ones in a thousand years, according to his masters. He was able to adapt and learn skills thought to him easily. The masters were outcast from their sect and came here for seclusion. They were happy and content leaving a quiet life and even the gangs of the southern Ney York learned to stay away from them. Shin gave them purpose again and the dojo became a lot livelier. Sometimes, Shin would come home, bringing with him children like himself who was searching for purpose and a home. Even though the orphanage is next to them, the children that Shin brings home were unique themselves but troubled. Master Hao: You know, Asuna will re-train you from scratch if she learns about this right? Shin: Gah! Master! Please don''t tell her, I''ll wash so the scent of blood would come off a bit. You know how Master Asuna goes (Shin felt shivers). Master Hao: Bahahahah! I understand. Asuna wants you to be able to kill without a single drop of blood in you, you know. Shin: I understand master, I will redouble my effort from all 4 of you on our training. Master Hao: Great! Now, about the food, we were waiting and hungry, Asuna is out on errands, trying to get some funds. Shin: You mean at the convinience store she works in? Master is not suited to work there.. Master Hao: All of us had to work or else we won''t eat. We appreciate you and the other students pitching in for us but we don''t want to be fed without doing nothing. Shin: I understand master, but work here on this part is limited and even if we get out of here, no one will accept our service, since our skills were not required by many people and the request from your client were becoming scarce and.... wait! Master Hao: What the.. what is it? Shin: (Shin had an idea came to mind for work for his masters) Master, I think I might have some good work for you. Master Hao: Oh? To get startled like that, must indeed be interesting. Do tell. Shin: Not yet master, I still need to confirm it, then I''ll tell all of you about it. Master Hao: If you say so.. So is the food done yet? I''m starving, dying even! Shin: That''s too much master, you did have teas and cookies this afternoon right? ????: We only had tea''s little one. Your master Asuna ate and hog all the cookies for herself, you know her, when she had a taste of your sweets and cakes, she hogs them all. Shin: Master Kenshin! (Shin once again bowed out of respect) Following his master are two of his close friends who also live in the dojo. Fuu and Jin, twins who were adopted by the masters, when Shin found them wondering in the neighborhood chased by gangs when he was 8 years old. The two of them studies under master Asuna, but since the master is out, they were thought instead by master Kenshin with breathing techniques and center of gravity enforcment. The two sighs heavily while taking their place at the table. Elder twin, Jin: Aniki, I''m starving, master Kenshin had pushed us to death with learning the basics again. Blade specialist, Master Kenshin: You.. no complaints. When I watch you with Asuna during training, you two are still lacking a lot. Younger twin, Fuu: We understand master and thank you for teaching us in place of master Asuna. (smiling with a carefree expression) Master Hao: By the way Kenshin, Shin said he may have a job for us soon. Master Kenshin: Oh? That would be great then. I hope it''s not labor, my back is killing me of this late. Master Hao: Bah! You''re getting old, while me, I''m still young and ready to go. Bahahahah! Master Kenshin: You.. who are you calling old! Do you want to be fossilized! His two master always bicker with each other, but this only shows how close they are along with their other two master, master Tang and Master Asuna. Shin began preparing the table and the food and told Fuu to call master Tang and Ryu, the dojo''s fourth disciple. Once everyone gathered, at the same time, master Asuna arrived from work. They then started the meal together. Ryu: Brother Shin, did you talk about the game with Cray and Crest? I envy them that they will be able to buy the game soon. The twins nodded at the same time, expressing the same feeling. Shin: Fufu.. That reminds me, Ryu, gather everyone here at the dojo tomorrow. I have a surprise for all of you. Jin: Eh? What is it aniki, is it present? Shin: Better! But it''s a secret till tomorrow so be patient. Jin: Awww man, I won''t be able to sleep because of the excitement. Master Tang: Hmm.. your talking about that game again, is it that interesting? Fuu: It is master. Think of it like this, if we have that game, even you masters, within the game, you would be able to practice your skills and martial arts against an oponent of different sizes, against monsters and beast alike. How great would that be. Long haired boy, Ryu: Yeah! I agree, lately, all we''re able to fight are those goons who can''t even last a minute. It''s boring. Master Hao: Bahahah! Confidence is good and all but always make sure to be vigilant. Ryu: Of course master, not one of us comes outside without bringing what we''ve learned from you. Master Kenshin: Good good.. This game you mentioned is indeed interesting. I would like to try my sword hand against an oponent were I would not have to hold back at all. The rest of Shin''s friends sighed heavily thinking in their hearts that it will just be a dream. Shin just smiled to himself and was also excited to see what expression his companions would make. They are to him as brothers and family. The next day, Shin received a call from James, asking him if he''s available. Shin was surprised because he just met and separated with James just yesterday but here he is, at the front door of their dojo, smiling at him, in his back were several trucks most likely carrying his "reward" for him. Shin: James? I know you wanted to repay me but, isn''t this too much? And I thought the game was just a helmet but why a large numbers of trucks?? James: Hahah! Who said I''ll give you those minitiarize ones? It wouldn''t give you the chance to display your whole skill within the game if you''re using the inferior versions. And also, the game would launch in January 1, it''s only 3 days left you know. I saw how you wanted to try it out so I brought this types here so we can explain to you how it works. Besides, I have something to tell you about this unit that I brought, they''re kind of unique and custom made so.. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Shin: Guhhh.. I feel dizzy just looking at the trucks and imagining what''s inside... I understand, and thank you James. Please come in so I can introduce you to my masters. I have a proposition for you as well so let''s talk about it inside with a cup of tea. Shin, along with James came in and asked for the master''s permission to bring in the units. Once everything was brought inside, they found a good room within the dojo that can fit all the units. The assistants then, began installing, and preparing the units to be used by Shin and his friends. James was also introduced to the Shin''s masters. Shin: Master, this is James, the person I told you about yesterday. James: It is nice to make your acquaintance, masters. Thank you for accepting me here in your dojo. Master Tang: Not a problem, a friend of Shin is always welcome here. We trust Shin''s judgement, since he was a child, the people he brings here are all good people. James: That''s kind of you to say and thank you Shin. Shin: Eheheh, master is embarassing me again. Well, about what I told you outside, about the proposition. James: Yes, do tell, I will listen and decide when I hear the rest of it. Shin: Yes, masters. Remember what I told you last night, about the job? When I remember James, having to face crisis just like the ones yesterday, I have thought that his guards were lacking. James: Yes, you''re right. Same kind of situation happened several times already and my bodyguards keep changing all the time. I''m not even sure if I can trust the others. Master Hao: So Shin, you want us to work as Mr. James'' bodyguard right? James: Eh?? (was dumbstruck when he heard one of the master) I had an idea about the proposition but I thought Shin would be recommending someone else? Master Tang: Are we not good enough for you Mr. James? James: Oh no! Not at all! Please don''t misunderstand my surprise is just that, I may not be good enough for your protection, masters. (James bowed in front of the masters) Master Asuna: Don''t think it like that Mr. James. We are also people who are trying to make a living. I''m sure, Shin had not told you about our circumstances but as you can see, our dojo is not the best right now. Master Kenshin: She is right. You don''t need to worry. If you hired us, we will protect you 100%. James: Ah.. (James were speechless for the moment) I''m honored masters, I should be the one asking you instead. But please, be my protectors and I will promise you that I will treat you with care as well. Master Hao: Bahahahah! All''s well that end''s well yeah! You fix the papers Mr. James. Each one of us will take turns to be your protector. If needed and you have some circumstances, two of us will go. (laughing while patting James'' shoulder) Shin: I guess that''s settled then. Good for you James. James: Yes, thanks again Shin, it was a blessing to have met you. The weight on my shoulders would decrease tremendously. From then on, any attempt to James life was thwarted flawlessly even before it started.. but that''s another story. After finishing the transaction between James and the masters, James explained the details about the game to Shin, the twins and Ryu, who''s present at the moment. James gave them another gift. Before the release of the game on January 2nd, the units given to them would be allow them to login a day before, meaning they would be able to get in before everyone else on the first day of the year 2023. Everyone was ecstatic as this would give them a big advantage even if it''s only a day. James told them that the normal time of 1 hour in real life is equal to 7 hours in the game. Their state would be sleeping and the technology will be using the "dream state", thus making it a full dive. With the help of the superior machine James brought with him, this provides the user to be at ease and use 100% of their skill while in the game as the whole unit will be scanning their whole bodies every 1 hour to update any changes at the same time, it served as a massaging machine if the system detects cramps within the muscles of the user. The machine will also detect if the real body will need sustenance but with the special machine, it can be turned off unlike the inferior ones. Having all this, Shin''s group would be able to play ahead of everyone for one week within the game, that is if they go through 24 hours without rest which everyone is planning to do. Shin had asked for the master''s permission for a day off. Since the unit will be in the dojo, it was still fine as everyone of Shin''s group is a disciple of each masters, they sometimes spend nights or several days within the dojo to train so the place was a second home to them. Once everything had been setup, James left for the company and Master Kenshin came along as the first guard for the first day of work. James promised to visit the dojo again in the future. Once everything was settled, the rest of Shin''s friends came in one by one. Each of them considers each other as brothers, regardless of age and nationality. Each one is someone or another, an outcast, an orphan, but they deligently learn under their selected masters, regardless of their personality, during spars and session, they become serious student and disciples. When Shin had explained to each one about what James had explained earlier, like himself, everyone was happy and surprised at this once in a life time chance. Shin: So, does everyone understand about the game? Tell me if you have question. Cray: Dude, I already bought one but if what this Mr. James gave us would allow to login earlier, I would definitely use it. Ryu: Since you will not be using your miniature unit, why not give it to the masters? This way, they can experience the game as well ne? Cray: Oh!? If you say it like that, that''s no problem with me but I only bought one, what about the other masters? Pale boy, Asher: I have one as well, you can give mine to the masters. Cray: Oh good, thanks Ash. Now two left. Shin: No, we only need two, the masters will be working in shifts from now on under James. I believe two of our master can login themselves but one should remain since someone should teach if were not all logged in, right. Cray: You got a point there, good one Shin. Huge kid, Adam: Ai! I would have bought one if you needed one though. What about you Ari, do you have work in the eve of new year? Girl from orphanage, Arielle: The sisters in the orphanage is not forcing me to work so I could be with you all, no biggie. Dark skinned boy, Gale: So everyone is in, even the masters, so what now Shin, even in game, you can decide for us, we''ll follow you like always. Shin: If you say so, does everyone agree? All Shin''s companion nod to his inquiry, they respect each other but more than that, they respect Shin since he was connected with each one of them deeper the anyone could think of. Shin was their brother, they consider him the eldest even though his age is not really the oldest of them all. They also considered him their savior, one that got them out of the mud, and showed them light. Shin: Don''t worry. Since we have been dreaming of having a fantasy like world where we can go all out, this is our chance, I do not want to hinder your growth even within the game. I would like us to go in the game separately. Celena: Why Shin? Isn''t it better for all of us be together, we can all work together in the game to compensate everyone''s weakness. Asher: I think what brother Shin intended for us is so we can become stronger, we won''t depend too much with each other. This way, if we encounter an obstacle in game, we would overcome them with all we''ve got. Also, the experience gain would be diminished if all of us partied together. Shin: Ash is right. I would like to have everyone become stronger as fast as you can before other people start coming in. Once we''re strong enough to not loose to anyone within the game, we will all meet at a designated place in the future. I''ll ask for you assistance in what place we would all meet, Ash, once we''re familiar with the game. Gale: Interesting! Are we forming a group then? Shin: That''s our goal. (Smirk) Each one of us would become strong, stronger than any other within the game. Each of us will be legendary. Once that''s done, we will finally form our group, our guild. Every member must be powerful on their own right. Then.. Everyone while beaming yelled "WE''LL CONQUER EVERYTHING!!". Every single one of them have fire burning within them, in anticipation with the upcoming game and the time where they would come together to bring storm and chaos in the new world. AN: *When asleep, a dream would occur where several hours, a day or a lifetime would pass while in reality, only an hour or a moment would pass. **After the announcement on December 24, 2022, the unit had start being on sale the next day, so most people would have gotten the unit and just waiting for the game to go online. Chapter 04 - Red Wolves Chapter IV : Blood Wolves After the group''s meeting and preparation to the game''s opening day, the rest of them had prepared themselves and asked day offs to the ones that are working. With the help of Cray, Crest and Asher''s research about the basics of the game and their theory of what to expect, they finish the preparation and the first day of the year arrived. Everyone haad gathered at the dojo before midnight of December 31st. If the rest of the people were waiting for the arrival of new year with fireworks and parties, Shin''s group had eagerly waited for the game''s opening. Everyone was already within their own respective unit that each has their names. The unit fit their physique perfectly, thanks to James who had setup even the tiniest details. Shin: Everyone.. good luck! Go do all your best and fight to the fullest. Cray: Yeah! Level up like crazy but don''t get slaughtered by monsters kay. Asher: Also, about what we''ve told you earlier, stick with raising your stats to the max... just kidding but as high as you can. Don''t loose any loot and japtems, hoarde everything that will look useful so once we meet, one of us may be able to use it. Celena: All right guys, that''s enough, it''s almost time! As Celena said so, the clock start ticking 5, 4, 3, 2, 1... then everyone can be heard "Dive In!!". Shin closed his eyes and when his body is entering sleep, he felt a sudden shift in his surrounding so he quickly opened his eyes. What he was now viewing is a vast green plain as far as the eyes can see. Then suddenly a melodius voice of a woman started speaking at the same time, he can see himself like looking in a mirror. "Welcome to Conqueror Online" "System detects this unit is customized, in exchange for logging in early, you will not start at any beginner town in the continent of Argonia, but in a random place or wilderness and survive until you are able to reach a town yourself" "System detects you''re a new user. Would you like to create an account?" James had explained this to them beforehand, everyone thinks it''s fine as long as they could start ahead. They were also warned that if they die, they won''t be able to login until the next day, a 24 normal hours restriction for death and 50% experience lost of the current level as well. Shin: Yes! "Then please choose your race. There are hundreds of known race and more that you can choose from." Shin: Any race is fine. "Then the system will choose your race for you.." After a minute, the image of Shin in front of him changed. The avatar''s skin had become pale white skin however, his body remains. Even the scars on his body were visible. His hair had become longer as well. "Choose your name." Shin: Chaos "Would you like to modify your appearance?" Chaos: Yes, make my eyes crimson red. Make my hair longer till it reach my back and the color is black as dark as night. The rest as is. "Would you like to familiarize yourself with movements and basic menu?" Shin: Yes please. Shin''s avatar disappeared and he believe that whatever the image that was shown earlier is what he looked like now. He was still in the green plain field to practice. Shin was amazed at the realism of this place. The grass and the soft wind that''s blowing against his skin, the smell of grass and fresh air, everything was so real. Afterwards, Shin started to move his limbs. First, he made the form that was thought by the master to warm up. After, he start to moved as if he''s fighting a shadow of himself, trying to apply moves and skills he knows. He also called out his status screen and items to take a look. Status Screen Name: Chaos Gender: Male Race: Halfling (Dimension-Dragon) Class: None Sub Class: None Alignment: Neutral Title: None Fame: 0 Level: 1 Exp: 0/1000 Health: 120 Mana: 110 Stamina: 120 Health Regen: 1/2sec Mana Regen: 1/3sec Stamina Regen: 1/1sec Strength: 10 Vitality: 10 Agility: 10 Dexterity: 10 Intelligence: 10 Wisdom: 10 Luck: 0 Attack: 5-10 Defense: 10 Magic Resistance: 0% Abnormal Status Resistance: 0% Skills: None ------------------------------------------------------------- Item Screen Short Sword (Common) -The most basic sword for beginners. Not very strong and would be discarded as soon as you get a new sword. Durability: 100/100 Attack: 5-10 Requirements: none Leather Armor (Common) -Beginner armor. Grants small protection to scratches and weak impact. Durability: 100/100 Defense: 10 Requirements: none Health Bread x 100 -An enhance bread for long journey. Taste''s good and able to recover 20% of satiety and 10% of health. Big Canteen -Contains fresh water. Temperature depends on the place you are in. Able to recover thirst and satiety by 5%. Must be filled when empty on a fountain or other source of liquid. Then Shin checks his given race, halfling. Since he chose random for the system to choose for him. He was curious as to what dimensional is. He understand what a dragon is but dimensional is new to him. As Shin touch the halfling race "dimensional", a system explanation was given. Dimensional being In a rare case, some species from Argonia would fall into a rift that leads to another world or dimension. In this case, a dimensional being are those that were trapped between worlds for a long time and evolved to cope up with the dimension''s environment. Some called this "The Void". Time in this dimension is non-existent but at some point of time, a species that were trapped within are either able to escape through a rift that suddenly opens or get summoned to another world. Not many are known about this species, however, one thing is known about their traits. They obtained the power to manipulate dimensions to their will. Shin has no idea about it but did not think too much as time goes on, he would learn it''s skill soon enough. Once satisfied that he could move properly, and familiarising his body movement and basic command, he called out to continue. The broken voice continue the process he started. "Would you like to end the training session?" Shin: Yes please. "You will now be transported to a random place. All 13 units has the same process and each one won''t be close to each other, would you like to begin?" Shin: Yes! "Again, welcome to Conqueror Online. Goodluck adventurer and may you conquer everything in your path.." Suddenly, Shin was bathe in light, but when he opened his eyes, he was within a dark surrounding, he was transported in a cave. The cave was not too dark. There are various glowing stones and mushroom all over the place that serves as light within the cave. Once again, Shin was in awe at how real the game is but it was cut short a sudden noise could be heard around him. There was one particular that is very close to him. When Shin was able to pinpoint where it''s coming from, he noticed that it was from a flying creature, a bat that is coming directly to him. Shin: Che! Right out of the blue huh, and not even few seconds after starting... perfect! (With a grin in his face, Shin prepared himself for battle) Shin dodged the bat''s first lunge at him, however, he was still grazed in his face with it''s left wing as it swiftly flew in ready to attack him again. Before the bat attacks, he was able to see the name of the monster he''s fighting above it''s head. "Darkwing of Blood [Unique] Level 30" When Shin saw it''s level, he had doubts but quickly remove it from his thoughts and continue the fight. The bat quickly lunge at him once more. Shin: This little creep! Damn, my body is not moving as good as it should be. Must be because of my level or I''m not used to this yet. I can''t even look at it because of this little creep. Shin forgot that he was transported to a random location, he was transported to a cave by the system, and the cave he was in right now has monsters at a higher level than normal beginner could ever handle. Since Shin did not realize that, he was more focused on the monster that was attacking him, but every dodge he make, he was getting better. His body is becoming more synchronize by the system. Dodging the small bat using minimal movement that was thought to him by his masters, he was able to dodge better, but Shin still thought it was because of him being level 1 and still weak. In reality, normal players would not be able to dodge the bat''s lunge at all because of it''s difficulty and level. The bat that Shin was currently facing, a level 30 unique monster in the cave and it''s the strongest of it''s kind, usually, normal vampire bat was just level 15. But the difficulty is a bit higher since it also have the ability to fly and regenerate it''s health through vampiric skill. When James had explained this to them, they agreed as it is worth it to be in the game earlier than everyone. James believe that even if they were thrown into a higher leveled field, their abilities can cope with it. He knows that they will be able to overcome whatever they faced in there. Shin: What to do, I''ve tried doing a chop at it when it lunge but it won''t hit. If this fight goes longer, I''m screwed. I can''t believe I''m being hard press by a small bat. My friends would laugh at me. While dodging and trying to hit back the bat several times, Shin was already feeling fatigue as his stamina gets consumed when dodging the bat, even with minimal movement used. While Shin dodge the bat''s attack, he was looking at his surrounding at what can give him advantage. Shin suddenly remember that he has equipment but does not come automatically equipped. Shin: Can I equip it during combat? Let''s try it. Shin tried calling out Item screen, while dodging the bat. Another thing Shin did not realize is that no normal person will call his status or item screen during combat because it will hinder their eye sight, however, Shin was getting used to the bats attack pattern so he''s able to predict when it''s going to attack. Shin quickly equips his short sword as well as the leather armor for protection. Shin: Now, let''s see if this will help. As soon as the bat lunge at him again, Shin did not dodge this time and had intercepted the bat with his now equipped sword. Doing so, he was able to flawlessly slash the bat right from it''s head to it''s tail. A big critical hit came up with a 20. As the bat halted and seems to be in pain, Shin quickly follow up with a stab on it''s head and body, slash on both it''s wings which had tear it and a final stab in it''s head. This was done in a quick succession that can only be performed by an expert of a sword. Usually, the first slash should have bisected but since it was a game and Shin was still a level 1, he had to slash several times without giving the bat a chance to retialiate. Even though it was a higher leveled monster, it has a very low defense and health so it died quickly. After defeating the bat, several system window came up in front of Shin that he had ignored earlier as well as new system window from killing his first monster. "You''re the first adventurer to discover the Blood Wolve''s Lair. The lair of a large pack of blood wolves with their alpha who are terrorizing nearby towns and caravans." "You gain 100 fame and +1 Luck for being the first one to discover this cave." "Experience and item drop chance is doubled for 7 days, first monster killed in combat will drop all loot." "Congratulations, you have encountered and defeated a Unique monster: Darkwing of Blood, you have gained 20 fame, +1 Luck" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have acquired a skill: Counter" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Counter has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Dexterity, +5 Agility, +5 Strength, counter damage: +10%, +5% chance to paralyze" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Counter has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Dexterity, +10 Agility, +10 Strength, counter damage: +10%, +5% chance to paralyze" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Counter has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Dexterity, +15 Agility, +15 Strength, counter damage: +10%, +5% chance to paralyze" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Counter has advanced to level: Expert" "You have gained gained +20 Dexterity, +20 Agility, +20 Strength, counter damage: +10%, +5% chance to paralyze" "You have acquired a skill: Unarmed Combat" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Unarmed Combat has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Dexterity, +5 Vitality, +5 Strength, Unarmed damage: +10%, Weapon damage: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Unarmed Combat has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Dexterity, +10 Vitality, +10 Strength, Unarmed damage: +10%, Weapon damage: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Unarmed Combat has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Dexterity, +15 Vitality, +15 Strength, Unarmed damage: +10%, Weapon damage: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Unarmed Combat has advanced to level: Expert" "You have gained gained +20 Dexterity, +20 Vitality, +20 Strength, Unarmed damage: +10%, Weapon damage: +10%" "You have acquired a skill: Sword Mastery" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Sword Mastery has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Dexterity, +5 Agility, +5 Strength, Sword damage: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Sword Mastery has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Dexterity, +10 Agility, +10 Strength, Sword damage: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Sword Mastery has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Dexterity, +15 Agility, +15 Strength, Sword damage: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Sword Mastery has advanced to level: Expert" "You have gained gained +20 Dexterity, +20 Agility, +20 Strength, Sword damage: +10%" "You have acquired a skill: Weapon Switching" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Weapon Switching has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Dexterity, +5 Intelligence, +5 Wisdom, Number of weapon slot: +1" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Weapon Switching has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Dexterity, +10 Intelligence, +10 Wisdom, Number of weapon slot: +1" "You have obtained Darkwing of Blood''s Fang x 2" "You have obtained Crimson Leather Wings x 2" "You have obtained Darkwing of Blood Soul Card" "You have obtained Vampiric Ring x 1" "System detects your advance movement and motion during combat" "You have gained +1 Agility, +1 Dexterity" Shin was surprised at the number of system window he received after just one battle. What he was most surprised about are the 4 level gains he received and the number of skills learned. This time, he realized that he''s not in a beginner dungeon. He also noticed that the system is able to determine if a user is already an advance or expert at some skills. He quickly opened his status screen to distribute his earned stat points. Each level, he gains 10 stat points, so now, he has a total of 40 stat points. He placed 20 in strength, 10 in vitality, and 10 in intelligence. Then he checked the skills he''d just gained. Skill: Counter (passive) Level: Expert (250/500) -Able to perform an attack after dodging an attack from opponent. -Counter attack damage: 90% of min/max attack. -Chance to paralyze opponents: 25% Skill: Unarmed Combat (passive) Level: Expert (250/500) -Able to fight without weapons. Fight with your fist and legs as your weapon. This skills also lift restrictions when holding a weapon. -Unarmed attack damage: 140% -Weapon attack damage: 150% Skill: Sword Mastery (passive) Level: Expert (250/500) -Able to use Sword type weapon better. Able to grasp and cut with ease. -Sword attack damage: 150% SKill: Switch Weapon (active) Level: Novice (0/300) -Able to switch weapon during combat -Number of weapon slot: 3 Shin was in awe how good the system of the game is. It''s able to detect user''s proficiency with skills used everyday. Of course not everyone can do martial arts but various skills that if your proficient enough to use in real life will be recognized as well within the game. This gives a bit of an advantage to users but none can say that not just martial arts is usful but other skills as well that other people have that they uses in their everyday life. Now that Shin is aware of how the system treats skill works, he promised to take full advantage of it and apply the various skill he learned from the 4 masters. Since the system scans the user''s brain which in turn quicken the pace to learn skills that would take others countless practice to learn. Example of this is since Shin has knowledge and skills in fighting or using a sword, he was able to move fluidly alerting the system of precise movement and accuracy of attack which in turn activating the requirements and learning the skill. This also gives bonus to stats for the body to cope up with the skills. However, since it''s the first virtual game that''s ever been released, Shin didn''t know that the game has a feature were it helps the user to perform skills. It''s called "system assist". This feature helps people to perform feat that normal person cannot perform, but since Shin does not know of it, Shin performs skills with effort, knowledge and mastery. Next, Shin checked the item drops he acquired, one that he''s curious about is the accessory ring and the soul card. --Vampiric Ring-- Type: Accessory Level: Rare -Ring which allows the user to drain vitality from their enemies. Effect: 5% of damage dealt goes into health. Stackable. +10 attack +100 HP +50 Mana Requirements: Level 20 Attack 100 Wisdom 60 Card: Darkwing of Blood, Lestaht: Unique Type: Soul -Rare type of card is soul type. Can be use in many different ways but there are still many application that wasn''t known yet. Pure type of essence can be use with equipment strengtening, enchanting, engraving and can be use as consumable attack item. -Additional Effect: HP Drain 10% of damage dealt Shin: Awesome, although I''m unable to use this yet it''s a pretty good start heh~. Okay, now that I''m pumped up, it''s time to search this cave for more enemies and loots.. After checking on all system window, Shin continued through the cave. Shin was able find several different types of mushrooms that are spread all around the cave. He found poison mushroom, dark mushroom, shiitake mushroom and glowshroom. Occasionally, he will find some rare blood shroom. He remembers when he was training with the masters, they often travel to mountains to train for survival and Shin was often tasked to collect herbs from the mountain and needed to identify which is edible and poisonous, he was used to identifying characteristics of poison and which are safe to eat. So with instinct, even though he does not need to, he still search for herbs and plants. However this didn''t go without any encounter with monsters. While going deeper into the cave, Shin had encountered bats again. Sometimes alone but most of the time, in groups of 5-10 or a whole swarm. Unlike the first encounter with the unique bat, vampire bats were lower leveled, and now that he''s level 5 with a higher attack power because he received a huge boost to his strength when he learned the skill which is already in advanced level, he was able to insta-kill the bats, because of his knowledge of where to hit where it hurts. Before Shin encounters the other resident monster in the cave, he had already killed more than a hundred bats due to it''s swarm attacks. His gained some stat bonus and this also had leveled him up from 5 to 22, unlocked the flexibility stat and this only took him 4 hours game time. He even got a title from killing more than a hundred vampire bats and another skill after getting to level 20. "You obtained the title: Vampire Hunter" "You have unlocked a race specific ability: Dimensional Space Creation" Shin: Eh? What''s this race specific ability? Sounds interesting.. I''ll try this later and experiment it''s uses.. for now, more exp! Shin then equipped the ring that he was not able to equip before, then continue forging through the cave. As he get''s further through the cave, the bat''s seems to have become scarce but the scent of blood that Shin smelled faintly earlier have become stronger and that the bats were also avoiding him, he can only shrug his shoulders on the weird occurence. After walking for several minutes with no encounter, Shin kept collecting every mushroom he sees in the cave. Then in a distance, he heard the second sound of another creature that is residence on the cave he were in. Bracing for the encounter, soon the silhouette of the monster came up and he noticed that what was heading for him was a lone wolf. A blood red wolf, most likely the creature where the cave has been named after. As it get closer, he was able to see the name and level of the monster. Blood Wolf Level 40. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. Blood wolf always travels in packs of 4-6 and are higher leveled than the bat. However, the wolf that is rushing to him seems to be alone, most likely a scout. It heads into him, most likely, thinking of him as an easy prey. Shin: Let''s see how strong wolves are within this game. I hunt your kind for dinner when I was a kid. This time, since Shin was not surprise with the attack, but can feel the killing intent of the wolf as it gets closer. It''s definitely a higher monster than bats. This can be enough to be seen as a boss to beginners and encountering a pack will be a one sided slaughter. However, Shin was calm and was observing the wolf that is almost near him. As soon as it neared, it lunge at him with incredible speed and breaking Shin''s expection, it did not lunge to bite him but used it''s claw to slash at him. This surprised him greatly as it''s not the usual attack a wolf would do. Because of the surprise attack, he was not able to dodge the wolf''s attack. "Critical hit! You received 260 damage!" "You have been inflicted with status, Bleed. You will loose 10 health per second until battle is over." Being attacked made him shake out of his surprise. Now focusing and knowing how dangerous the wolf is. He did not waste any time and instead of taking his distance, he attack the wolf head on. His first thrust had hit the wolf on it''s right eye, causing the wolf to flinch. He then jumped towards the wolf and rotate his body clockwise and deliver a swirling upward slash hitting it''s throat. This did not kill the wolf as it has way higher health than the bat. He did not relent and attack again at the same spot on it''s throat, causing critical hit. After hitting the same spot again two more times, the wolf finally fell. After the wolf''s death, he quite a lot of experience, also with the help of his 1 week double experience buff as well as the difficulty of the wolf. After the fight, his bleeding stopped but when he notice his current health, it was in critical condition. He quickly ate 5 bread to recover his health and sat down to recover his stamina. While in a meditative position, only 10 minutes had passed but another set of growling can be heard. It seems that other wolves have smelled the blood of their brethren and rush to check what happened. Seeing him, the two wolves quickly head towards him and each separated and paced on both of his side. One wolf faces Shin, while the other quietly paced further back. Shin thought it''s a good tactic but as soon as the two wolves lunge at him at the same time in front and back, Shin stood lower to the ground and thrust what he''s holding on his left hand to the wolf that was in front and deliver a slash at the one that is coming in the back. Shin had picked up a broken stone stalagmite earlier and was able to use it as a weapon. Shin had learned from his master Asuna, to use anything in his surrounding as a weapon, Shin took advantage of the technique. The stalagmite he thrust to one of the wolf were stuck deep in it''s throat causing it to roll in pain and stagger, while the other has a slash on one of it''s eye, blood spraying from it covering the other eye. This gave Shin an opening he needed and quickly lunge at the one with stalagmite stuck on it''s throat and he kept slashing it on it''s underside, another of it''s weak spot repeatedly until it died. The other wolf was able to recover, it lunge at him again in a frenzy while it''s body glowed red. Shin tried to use another technique his master thought him but before he could complete the slash to the wolf, as system message appeared in front of him. Shin was trying to do one of the skills his master Kenshin had thought him, Vorpal Cutting. The message in front of him says: "You failed in performing and creating a skill with the current equipment you are using, try again once you have an ancient blade that can perform this skill" "Due to failed skill activation, you are paralyze for 5 seconds" Shin: Sh-Shittt!!! Being paralyze, Shin was able to raise at least his sword in defense, but the wolf did not stop and repeatedly clawed him non-stop. The scent of blood was in the air as Shin''s blood flew for every slash the wolf had done to him. After 5 seconds, he was barely alive and again, in critical condition, worst than before. "You received 110 damage!" "You received 150 damage!" "You received 120 damage!" "You received 190 damage!" "You received 220 damage!" "You received 180 damage!" Another surprise within the game which had caused him severely. He was still lucky as the paralization lifted before the final attack of the wolf that could''ve killed him. He was able to perform a parry which he made to deflect the wolf''s attack. Again, he lunge the enemy even though he knows that only one hit could kill him. He repeatedly slash with all his focus on the wolf''s neck until it died after the 6th hit. Shin did not stopped as he knows he''s also has a "bleeding" status. He quickly stuff bread after bread in his mouth and drank water from his canteen. Then run back where he came from just to the edge of the wolf''s territory. This gave him a safer place to meditate once again to stop his bleeding and speed up his inner body function and metabolism. After another 30 minutes, as he felt that his body is at least back to normal, when he opened his eyes, he immediately got another system window. "You have gained a level" "System detects your advance movement and motion during combat" "You have gained +1 Agility, +1 Dexterity, +1 Strength" "You have acquired a skill: Chakra" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Chakra has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Vitality, +5 Intelligence, +5 Wisdom, Restore HP: +10%, Probability of healing status effect: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Chakra has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Vitality, +10 Intelligence, +10 Wisdom, Restore HP: +10%, Probability of healing status effect: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Chakra has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Vitality, +15 Intelligence, +15 Wisdom, Restore HP: +10%, Probability of healing status effect: +10%" "You have acquired a skill: Meditation" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Meditation has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Intelligence, +5 Wisdom, Mana Regen: +10/sec." "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Meditation has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Intelligence, +10 Wisdom, Mana Regen: +10/sec." "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Meditation has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Intelligence, +15 Wisdom, Mana Regen: +10/sec." "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Meditation has advanced to level: Expert" "You have gained gained +20 Intelligence, +20 Wisdom, Mana Regen: +10/sec." Shin: (sigh) That was close.. I don''t want to die on the first day of logging in but this was more than I expected. Even with the skills my masters thought me, I had to use all of my strength and skills to overcome these monsters in this game. Shin took a look at the new skills he gained. Skill: Chakra (Active) Level: Advance (360/400) Mana Consumption: 50 -Increase your inner body workings making your body fight sickness and abnormality and wounds heal faster. -Restore HP: 40% -Probability of healing status effect: 40% Skill: Meditation (Active) Level: Expert (250/500) Mana Consumption: 0 -Upon entering a meditative state, mana will regenerate faster. Caution, while in meditative state, damage is doubled. -Mana Regen: 50/sec. Shin felt more excited than discourage with the difficulty of the game. He was thankful to James that he was thrown into a harder dungeon than a boring beginning one. With this, he will definitely become stronger fast. As soon as his health had recovered to full after eating 5 more breads, he continued hunting the wolves and sometimes, vampire bats that gets in his way. Several times, he gets cornered when facing more than 4 wolves, he did not realized that wolves also calls for backup when critical. He was lucky, his first wolves died quickly or else, he would have died already. Shin became more used to the wolves movements, just like with the bats, his battle became a easier, to the point that he was able to battle 6 wolf at the same time with minimal damage. Since the wolves were of higher level, he was also able to reach level 33 after killing several dozens of wolves. Shin also randomly gained stats after combat. Because of constant movements, dodging attacks and using minimal movements with expert sword and martial arts tecniques. By experimenting during combat, sometimes, Shin would not use a weapon and just use hand to hand combat when the wolves he face were just 2-3. He was able to unlock the endurance and resilience stat. While fighting great numbers of blood wolves and vampire bats, the number of items he had collected had made his bag almost full. Shin looked for a safe place to rest, then he tried organizing his items and take a look if there are any important drops he obtained. After checking each item, a system window appeared in front of him along with all the others he ignored while fighting. "System detects your advance movement and motion during combat" "You have gained +16 Agility, +14 Dexterity, +11 Strength, +9 Vitality, +8 Endurance, +7 Resilience, +6 Flexibility, +3 Luck" "System detects deeper understanding of herbs and items gained from monsters and surroundings" "You have acquired a skill: Plant & Herb Identification" Shin: Cool! But.. the last loot i picked up are bloody fangs, claws and blood wolf''s pelt. However, I cannot store it in my bag anymore. Damnit! (with sad expression and a feeling of regret) Should I throw this..? If I have more space like a merchant, I could at least save some of this.. tsk! This will start to suck from now on. I''ll start throwing precious items because I don''t have space! I''m far from a town as well.. I promise I''ll buy a bigger bag when I get out of here... While Shin was contemplating with throwing the extra items or not, he suddenly remembered about the skills he learned earlier, especially the racial ability he ignored. When he opened up his skill list, he found the ability on another tab and then started checking on it. Ability: Dimensional Space Creation (Active) Level: Beginner (0%) Mana cost: 10 -The first racial ability learned by a dimensional being. Will enable you to create a personal pocket space that may serve as a resting place or storage. -Only the user can enter this pocket space until the ability advance further. -When inside coming inside the created pocket space, mana will drain 10/sec. If mana runs out while inside the space, stamina will be used with double the amount, then next is life with triple the amount. *additional 5 mana drain, if surface customization is used. *additional 5 mana drain, if lighting customization is used. -Current size: 5 x 5 square meter -Customizable options: surface customization, lighting customization -Surface customization option: default(empty space surface), solid stone surface -Lighting customization option: single lamp light type Shin: Huh... this ability is kind of complicated and it''s mana consumption is quite big.. but storage! Hahahah! I will not have problem with storage anymore!Every merchant will be jelous of this. Shin activated the skill immediately. Having an idea of what to expect, feeling the mana within his body, then forming a picture in his head, he released the energy from within. This created a dark space in front of him, a door that can fit a single person to enter. Inside the space, Shin knows he had stepped in another different area altogether. The atmosphere were calm, not the atmosphere that can be felt within a cave. Shin could still feel that he was stepping on a hard surface even though everything is just like a black abyss. When Shin remembered about the customizable option he saw on the skill information screen, a system window came up in front of him automatically. ------------------------------------- -Space Customization- Current Size: 5 x 5 meter Current Surface: Default Current Lighting: None Current Mana Consumption: 10/sec ------------------------------------- Shin selected the surface option and he was given another option, and selected it. Then he enabled the lighting option on. As soon as he finished the selection, the room lighted up dimly and his surrounding became a stone surface. No sand nor pebbles on it''s surface. It was clean. Shin looked again at the System window. ------------------------------------- -Space Customization- Current Size: 5 x 5 meter Current Surface: Solid Stone Current Lighting: Dim Current Mana Consumption: 20/sec ------------------------------------- After checking, Shin started experimenting. He tried closing the door and reopening it. He was able to do so with just a single thought. He had a dominion on the space he had created which delighted him. Next, he left a few items on the floor, then left and came out of the space. Being within the space for just half a minute, he had spent a staggering 500 mana. If he didn''t have 1625 mana, it''s possible for him to get killed. Before entering again, Shin meditated until his mana is full again. He decided to go back to the space later once his inventory is full again, since he had freed up 5 item space (he only have 15 item space), it will take awhile until he run out of space again, then he will continue his experiment with the space he created. Shin continued deeper, encountering less and less of the wolves and bats, until he was able to get to the innermost section of the cave. He also obtained another title by defeating over a hundred blood wolves. As he go further, there were no more wolf or bats. However, the scent of blood have become stronger. Bloodshroom that was scarce had increase in number so Shin collected them. But Shin knows, it only means one thing, he was close at the end of the cave. The lair of the boss. When he finally stumble upon a stair leading downwards, Shin had started preparing. He can feel a life force at the bottomm of the stairs and it''s full of blood lust. It also knows he''s there. Then without hesitation, he went down to the deepest part of the cave. At the bottom of the stairs goes to a wide opened space. In the middle is a raised dais and sitting atop of it is the largest wolf Shin had set eyes on. It''s a huge wolf. It''s color is deep red, like blood. It''s mouth has blood dripping from it. And looking at it''s eyes, Shin could see a hungry beast, ready to devour him. Shin could already see it''s name and level. "Wolf of Carnage, Redmoon", Level 100. Shin was a bit hesitant because of the huge level gap between them. He was level 40, a 60 level gap, however, with the stats he gained from skills and added stats, he''s equal to a level 100 player. He psyche himself up and removed his emotion. Afterwards, his focus on the wolf had become sharp as a blade. Shin, then drew his sword. Then without anymore hesitation, charge at it. This had surprise the wolf as it''s used to anything that stands before it to cower in fear, none had been able to confront it when standing at it''s presence. Shin was able to close in on the wolf, taking advantage of it''s brief surprised. He quickly delivered a quick slash to it''s eyes, hoping to blind the beast. Shin was able to do so but onlny on one eye. Blood gushed out of it''s wounded eyes and cause the wolf to wail in pain. This had quickly enraged the wolf, and looking at him on it''s now single eye with hatred, charged at him. Even with it''s huge size, the wolf moved and slash at him in quick succession using it''s giant claw. Shin was not idle either. Before the wolf moved, he had tried to anicipate the giant wolf''s move. Because of it, he was able to dodge and negate 90% of the damage dealth to him. "You have received 80 damage" Shin tried to follow up with another few slashes to the wolf''s wounded eyes, to it''s throught and underside. Each strike Shin he did to the giant wolf causes critical hit. This would also amazed others if they see this fight. The probability of landing critical hit is at most 10% and lower for a fast and moving object. Shin kept his onslought on the wolf, until it''s health went down 50%. Upon reaching 50% damage, the atmosphere around the wolf changed again. Shin once again charged the wolf again. As he get near the wolf, it suddenly raised it''s head, then gave a piercing howl. Shin suddenly stopped completely in his track and unable to move, followed by a feeling of dread. This was followed by a system window. "You have been paralyzed by fear. You won''t be able to move for 10 seconds." Shin: Che! Shit! I''m in trouble...! The range is 20 meters from it''s center.. it''s dodgeable if I''m able to get out of this alive! Shin has been stunned for 10 seconds. He mustered all his strength to raise his sword arm up to at least prepare for the coming onslought from the huge wolf. The wolf did not rush to him, like he thought. However, it''s moving closer and closer. Once it''s in front of him, it raise it''s right paw full of sharp claws. Then it came. Strike after strike of it''s sharp and bloody claw came at him. If he didn''t raise his defense up, he would have died at the sixth strike. System window indicating damage kept coming up. "You have received 501 damage" "You have received 523 damage" "You have received 512 damage" "You have received 505 damage" "You have received 511 damage" "You have received 505 damage" On the seventh strike, Shin was finally abe to move, but the seventh strike is already coming. Shin grit his teeth and brace for impact of the seventh strike. Once it hit, Shin was thrown towards the wall with great force and suffered great damage. "You have received 600 damage" "You have been inflicted with status, Bleed. You will loose 10 health per second until battle is over." Shin: Guahg! (When Shin hit''s the wall, it force takes the breath out of him.) Cough! Th-that''s way heavy. Damn! One more hit and I''m a goner! While trying to recover, the wolf head towards him again to finish him off. Shin quickly sprinted away from the wolf. Once far enough, his body glowed blue as he started using "Chakra" to recover from the status effect and health. On the third time he used it, the bleed status disappeared. Before the wolf reaches him, Shin quickly sprinted away once more. Fearing the effect of it''s howl, he quickly went out of it''s range. And as he expected, it howled once again, but before it reaches him, hes already out of the range. After the wold used it''s skill, Shin noticed that it''s only staring at him and did not move. Shin: Wait the minute.. what is it doing? Why did it not charged? Is this..? Having an idea, Shin tried to rush the wolf again, which is starting to move. As soon as Shin was in range again, it tried to howl once more but Shin step back instead before the howl was completed. He avoided the skill range again, and like before, it did not move for several seconds. Shin: Heheh.. that''s an opening! Now I got you! Shin quickly charged the wolf while it''s idling and slash at it''s throat, causing critical damage. He was finally able to break the stalemate, and continue to give damage to it. Whenever it will raise it''s head, Shin would step just outside it''s range, then swiftly continued attacking, stacking critical damage to the wolf. Shin was finally able to whittle down it''s health to 5%. At it''s critical, it''s speed rose again and did not use it''s howling skill but continously pressure him with strikes and lunge. When it was down to 1%, it abandons defense and did a desperate attack. Shing attacked as well but instead of the strikes, the wolf was now trying to bite him in half. Successfully evading the continous strikes and bites with minimal damage, Shin delivered the final blow with a stab on it''s head, in the center of it''s eyes. The wolf did not die yet, and striked him upwards. Defending the strike, he was blown upwards and as he falls down, the wolf was waiting for him to fall with it''s mouth full of sharp teeth, waiting for him. Using a momentum he learned from one of his master, to alter direction even while in mid-air, altered the location where he would fall at the last minute. He then flipped and hit the sword that was already embedded in between the eye of the wolf, plunging it further to it''s brain, this time, causing a fatal hit. "Fatal Hit! Damage 3,423!" With a final cry, the giant wolf finally fell. Shin also noticed that his health was in critical condition and he almost died. Shin: (sigh) That was hard.. But this is what I''m talking about! A challenge that would need to give my all. (clenching his fist in front of him) Upon beating the final boss of the cave, the game system came up, but this mark was the beginning of Shin''s path to the top. All of his companions were also making their way and paving a path of strength within the game, with a goal of meeting some day when they were all at the top and gather to form a legend. Chapter 05 - Legendary Class **This chapter, Shin will now be addressed as his game name, Chaos (of course just within the game). Chapter V : Obtaining a Class After the battle with the giant wolf, Chaos noticed that his health has once again had fallen to critical. With the last life, he gave his all to beat the boss monster and was satisfied in the end. He felt that he became stronger, within and outside the game, since with the experience, he will be able to use it outside. Outside the game, he was bored. He know he''s strong and because of it, there was no challenge. Even when his masters brought him along with the dangerous jobs, it game a bit of a challenge but he still didn''t need to give his all. However, within the game, he felt the danger, exhiliration and the effort to surpass his previous self. Therefore, he was satisfied. He hoped that every battle with a boss is like this. He quickly restored his life with "Chakra" and ate 2 breads to restore his satiety. Then looking at the corpse of the giant wolf, the realism was at the top. In games, usually, when a player beat a monster or a boss, it disappears, but in Conqueror Online, the corpse remain, the place they battled are affected and will not restore. Even the scent of blood still lingers in the air. Chaos: This is definitely my kind of place. I should be able to get past the stagnation that I am feeling for the past year. (smirk) The notification he ignored previously had piled up again. It was easy to ignore them when all his attention was with the monster he''s facing. "You have leveled up!" "Congratuations for beating the boss: Wolf of Carnage, Bloodmoon" "For soloing the boss and beating it, you have gain 500 fame" "For soloing a boss type monster, you have gained a title: One Man Team" "For clearing the dungeon by yourself, you have gained fame +50 and a title: Dungeon Sweeper" "Quest Update: Subjugate the Vile Beast - bring proof that you have killed the blood beast to the town of Levia to get your reward" "You have acquired a skill: Deflect" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Deflect has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Vitality, +5 Agility, +5 Dexterity, Physical damage: -10%, Nullify physical damage chance: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Deflect has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Vitality, +10 Agility, +10 Dexterity, Physical damage: -10%, Nullify physical damage chance: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Deflect has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Vitality, +15 Agility, +15 Dexterity, Physical damage: -10%, Nullify physical damage chance: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Deflect has advanced to level: Expert" "You have gained gained +20 Vitality, +20 Agility, +20 Dexterity, Physical damage: -10%, Nullify physical damage chance: +10%" "You have acquired a skill: Assassin Edge" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Assassin Edge has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Strength, +5 Agility, +5 Dexterity, Damage per strike on same spot: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Assassin Edge has advanced to level: Novice" "You have gained gained +10 Strength, +10 Agility, +10 Dexterity, Damage per strike on same spot: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Assassin Edge has advanced to level: Advance" "You have gained gained +15 Strength, +15 Agility, +15 Dexterity, Damage per strike on same spot: +10%" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Assassin Edge has advanced to level: Expert" "You have gained gained +20 Strength, +20 Agility, +20 Dexterity, Damage per strike on same spot: +10%" "You have acquired a skill: Limit Break" "You have acquired a skill: Air Walk" "System detects your advance knowledge of the skill, Air Walk has advanced to level: Intermidiate" "You have gained gained +5 Agility, +5 Intelligencce, +5 Luck, Number of times that you can condense the air: +1" "You have obtained Blood Brothers" "You have obtained soul card Wolf of Carnage, Bloodmoon: Unique Boss" "You have obtained Blood & Soul Crystal" "You have obtained Premium Juicy Meat x 1" "You have obtained Blood Gem x 6" "Wolf of Carnage Alpha''s Hide x 1" "Wolf of Carnage Alpha''s Bloody Claw x 2" "Wolf of Carnage Alpha''s Bloody Fang x 1" "System detects your advance movement and motion during combat" "You have gained +3 Agility, +4 Dexterity, +2 Endurance, +3 Resilience, +3 Strenghth, +1 Wisdom, +1 Intelligence, +2 Vitality, +2 Luck, +3 Flexibility**" Chaos was shock at the system windows he received. Chaos was not able to play games all the time. Only when he met his friends that he had a chance to play rpg''s and mmo games but most of his knowledge about the game was by always listening to his friends stories about games they''ve played. For this instance, he was not aware that several gamers would band together to form a group to subjugate a monster he just defeated alone. Since Chaos defeated it alone, he was able to get all the drops as well as the effort in defeating the boss gave him more experience. After confirming all the notification and distributing his stats, Chaos excitedly browse through the items and skills he received. Skill: Deflect (Active) Level: Expert (0/500) Mana: 10 -Defense against physical attack. Able to reduce physical damage cause by an attack. Chance to negate attack, completely neutralizing damage. -Physical damage: -90% -Nullify physical damage chance: 50% Skill: Assassin Edge (Passive) Level: Expert (400/500) -Like an assassin, your strike will cause severe damage to your enemies. Each strike is more severe than before. By striking the same spot over and over, damage will stack and accumulate. (effect will be canceled if strike hit another part) -Damage per strike on same spot: +50% *master level: 2nd strike onwards on the same spot has 10% chance of inflicting bleed, paralyze, silence or cripple. Skill: Limit Break (Passive) Level: Beginner (0/100) -Upon reaching a critical state, your body will enter a state surpassing it''s limit. -At critical state: all stat +10% Skill: Air Walk (Active) Level: Intermidiate (0/200) Mana: 50 -Condense the air at your feet, allowing you to step on it like a solid wall. -Number of times that you can condense the air: 2 Chaos was happy that the system recognizes his skills. In real life, he also uses the same skills thought by the masters but not often, since there was no danger or chance to use them. This was also the reason he gained the advance level upon receiving the skills. Afterwards, he checked a pair of what looks like a glaiator''s sword, however, it''s double edged. It does not have a guard and the middle is tinge with blood red glowing runes. One edge is sharp and smooth while the other edge is jagged for inflicting more pain. Chaos checked the sword''s information. Blood Brothers (Dual Blade) Type: Unique-Living weapon -Forge by an unknown demon blacksmith. Said to be made from the fangs of lord behemoth that had cause countless death in the dark era. A soul was infused within the sword, thus allowing it to grow stronger along with the user. -Emits a red aura when out of it''s sheath and leaves a trail of blood red after glow when being used. Attack: 66 - 99 Durability: 366/500 Effect: Bleed resistance 66%, Chance to cause bleed: 66% +10 Strength +10 Agility +10 Dexterity Growth: Beginner 0/100 Requirements: Level 50 Str 100 Dex 100 Chaos: Sweet! A living weapon that gets stronger when used! Awesome! I feel so lucky today.. Eeheheh.. Now what about the other items? Card: Wolf of Carnage, Bloodmoon: Unique Boss Type: Soul -Rare type of card is soul type. Can be use in many different ways but there are still many application that wasn''t known yet. Pure type of essence can be use with equipment strengtening, enchanting, engraving and can be use as consumable attack item. -additional effect: Bleed +50% -attack effect: 50% of user''s damage + 100% bleed status effect Blood & Soul Crystal Type: Quest Item -Item to start a quest to obtain one of the hidden class held by an unknown conqueror of the dark era. -A crystal that had absorbed thousand of souls essence and blood of the fallen. Once it''s able to complete absorbing more blood and soul essence, it will allow the owner to transcend to a higher level. +Swallowed by an alpha dire wolf, and had evolved the creature to a carnage wolf. With the crystal inside it, it was able to become stronger by consuming people and other creatures blood. Although the new weapon interest Chaos, he was not able to use it for the moment, however, the "Blood Soul Crystal" interest him more especially when it said something about gaining a hidden class. Chaos pondered what to do while holding the crystal. Upon inspecting the cave where the boss monster lives in, he noticed that there were many skeletons and bones scattered all around, as well as boxes and items. He also noticed the raised dais where the boss monster stood. Chaos first climbed the raised dais. There he found a spring on top of it. Even though it''s called a spring, instead of water, red liquid like blood comes out of it. This gave him an idea and Chaos took out the crystal and pointed it towards the fountain. Then immediately, a system window popped up. "Do you want to use the "Blood & Soul Crystal" in the Blood Fountain to absorb the power of the underworld?" Chaos: Huh.. so it''s like that then.. let see.. hell let''s try it out, YES! This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. The crystal suddenly appeared and shines atop the fountain and it started to revolve. Then a new system window came up. "Quest Start!" -------------------------------------------------------------------- Quest: Protect the Crystal Type: Class specific quest Info: While the Blood & Soul Crystal absorbs the power from the fountain of the underworld, protect it from being taken by the horde of monsters that will come for it''s power. Goal: Prevent crystal from being taken by any of the monsters that will be coming for it. Absorption must reach 100%. Success: Hidden Class attainment Fail: -Quest fails and cannot be taken again. Crystal will be lost and another boss thrice as strong as the Carnage Wolf will appear and will wreck havoc on this kingdom. -People will hate you. -You won''t be able to enter any town for the duration of 1 year. Level: B Reward: Hidden Class, exp +50,000, Fame +1000 Requirement: Obtain Blood & Soul Crystal, Find Fountain of the Underworld -------------------------------------------------------------------- Chaos: Holy crap! I didn''t expect it would become a quest! I''d just defeated a boss for crying out loud... Shit! Here they come! From the entrance of the Boss''s lair, several blood wolves and vampire bats can be seen, and more keeps adding up withing their numbers. Supposedly, Chaos should have companions with him, but since he''s unaware and was force to cope with the situation, he''s alone to confront hordes of monsters. He still have some luck, since the fountain is at the top of the raise dais, there is only one way up to it, and that is the stairs leading up. Chaos would only have problems with the vampire bats that flies but he wasn''t worried, since he can kill them in one hit. The stronger wolves will be coming but can only attack one or two at a time so Chaos can still manage. As the first set of monster came, he quickly dispatched the bats and kicked the two incoming wolves, forcing them to stumble and hit the wolves behind, thus giving him time to kill off the bats. With higher level, he can now kill the wolves with 2-3 strikes, however, since there is a staggering number that is coming, his kick, punch and slashes did not stopped. His focused was terrifying as anything that enters his range have o been cut down or was torn to pieces. Sometimes, while he fought, time sometimes slowed down and he was able to cut down several monsters at once then after few seconds, time would speed up again, but Chaos did not notice as he''s too focused with the fight. He then checks the crystal as it''s showing the percentage completion. 8%, 18%, 33%, 49%, 66%, 81%. Chaos keeps fighting, ignoring his exhaustion and pain from attacks that goes through his defense. Taking a glimpse at the crystal once more, Shin saw that it''s at 95%. Chaos: Gaahh! It''s almost done! but there is no sign of this monsters stopping. Where the hell did they came from? When I was going here, there were not this many..! Chaos continued hacking and slashing through to protect the crystal. Chaos suffered damage after damage upon being attacked by several monster at once but he still manage to repel the monsters. Thanks to the "deflect" skill, he was able to minimize the damaged done to him. Upon checking on the crystal, it was at 99%. As the crystal went to 100%, Chaos''s health was at critial but he felt relief as it''s now done. Thank''s to his skill "Limit Break" which boost all his stats up 10%, was able to last longer. However, the monsters did not stop attacking, but instead going into frenzy. When Chaos once again looked at the crystal, he couldn''t believe what he''s seeing. The crystal percentage completion has gong over 100%! "101%... 102%.... 103%... 104%.... 105%......" Chaos: What the hell''s going on!? It didn''t stop?? And the monster became more frenzied. If this continued... ugh! As the monsters converge up unto the dais and into him, Chaos fought like a madman. His health is almost gone as well. Then, Chaos remembers the crystal''s information. He remembered something about the beast swallowed the crystal and it obtain power and evolved. Thinking of this, Chaos did not hesitate. After dispatching several bats and wolves, he used his remaining strength and dashed to the fountain, grabbed the crystal suspended in mid air above the fountain which now shows 166%. Chaos then swallowed the crystal. This halted the assault of the monsters, then suddenly, Chaos body started to glow until it became too bright to see. This has scared the monsters and started scattering away, clearing the cave empty. This was followed by pain spreading all over his body. The pain within the game was reduced down to 40% so that it won''t traumatize the games. But what Chaos felt was real. 100% of the pain was surging through his body. However, since Chaos was used to pain, he just gritted his teeth and endure. Then after some excruciating time, the pain was rising again and with final breath, Chaos howled to fight the pain. Chaos did not notice but the scream he let out was not of a human, but that of a ferocious beast.. of a dragon. The pain then subsided until it was gone. Chaos was still alive but panting and lying down on the cold floor of the cave. The blinding light is gone but also the monsters that was attacking him previously. When he opened his eyes, system windows, several of them had piled up, now present in front of him. "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "You have unlocked a race specific ability: Space Distortion" "You have gained a level" "Congratulations, you have encountered and defeated a Unique monster: Darkwing of Shadow, you have gained 20 fame, +1 Luck" "Congratulations! You have completed the quest: Protect the Crystal." "Experience +50,000, Fame +1,000, Hidden Class attainment, one of the Legendary Class, Dark Summoner acquired. "You have gained a level" "You have gained a level" "Due to the power that was absorbed exceeded the limit, the Fountain of the Underworlds which was connected to River of the Fallen, has been depleted almost to the limit. "The crystal''s power had exceeded it''s limit, thus was able to evolve. And by consuming the crystal instead of grasping it with your hand, you have assimilated the Blood & Soul Crystal that the legendary conqueror of the dark era had and more. "Quest Start!" -------------------------------------------------------------------- Quest: Devil''s Pursuit Type: Chain Quest Info: The Blood & Soul Crystal had absorbed too much from the Fountain of the Underworld, which is connected to the River of the Fallen. A Duke of Hell, which governs the river became furious because of the power of his river getting stolen. He now commanded his personal knights to pursue the thief. Goal: Defeat the Devil Knights that will be retrieving the crystal from you. Find a way to the Underworld to stop the duke from sending more knights by either negotiation or subjugation. Success: Depends on how you stop the Duke. -If it''s by negotiation, the devil''s on the Duke''s territory will hate you and will not allow you any quest or sell any goods to you. -Familiarity with the Duke''s territory will become -100. -If it''s by subjugation, the devil''s on the Duke''s territory will revere you as their liberator and familiarity will become maximum. Fail: -Quest Fail if you die by the hands of any of the demon knight that was sent to you. -Class will be severely weaken and will only be comarable to a normal hidden class. -Knights sent by duke will not stop killing you for the expan of 1 year. Each time you die, you will lose ability proficiency. Level: S Reward: Legendary Item/Equipment, Experience +500,000, Fame +10,000, 100,000 Gold Requirement: Blood & Soul Crystal absorbes more than 100% during "Protect the Crystal" quest. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Chaos: What kind of.. quest is this? Never ending quest unless I die? Che! Who do they think I am, calling me a thief... wait.. personal knights should be strong, so they will be the one coming? Heheh this is great, more practice partners. And I''ve gained another race ability too! (Grin) I''m sooo lucky eheheh! Instead of dread, Chaos had made this situation as a way to become stronger. Being a battle maniac, he anticipate meeting the so called duke''s personal knights. Also, another set of system window continued appearing in front of him. "Class Change: Dark Summoner" "Congratulations! You have acquired one of the legendary class from the Dark Era, Fame +1000" "Due class change, you have obtained stat boost from the class." "Strength +20, Vitality +20, Agility +30, Dexterity +20, Intelligence +100, Wisdom +100, Luck +10" "All magic resistance + 10%" "All status resistance + 10%" "You have gained a class specific skill: Soul Binding & Blood Contract" "You have gained a class specific skill: Servant Summoning" "You have gained a class specific skill: Attack Summoning" "You''ve gained +9 Strength, +7 Vitality, +11 Agility, +12 Dexterity, +2 Intelligence, +2 Wisdom, +2 Luck, +5 Flexibility, +6 Endurance, +2 Resilience"*** Chaos: Did I read it correctly.. this sounds like a magician class to me... What the heck! AN: ***Stat boost from fighting the horde of monsters, pushing his body to the limit. Chapter 06 - Legends Born (Revised) Chapter VI - Legend''s Born James POV James was in his office waiting for the response from his assistant. Earlier, he gave special previledges to 13 people to play the game one day in advance before it''s opening. This has garnered doubts and surprise from his employee and teams assigned in monitoring the game. James doesn''t care, he believes that those 13 people will not surpass his expectations, which will help with his goal when he created the game. As he wait for his assistant, he look at the other person in the room. It''s his assigned body guard for the day, Asuna Koga. James still cannot believe that his body guard is also a genuine descendant of a renowed clan of ninja from Japan. The sense of security that were coming from this woman''s is absolute. It''s been a long time that James felt that he was safe. He also feels the same when he visited a friend from the dojo that his body guard came from. She just quietly meditate in the corner of the room, and if he didn''t know she was there, he won''t notice at all. When James introduced Asuna to his colleagues and peers, they raise objection of having only one bodyguard but after releasing a killing intent around her, his peers immediately shut up. James still finds it funny at their expression after that event. Then suddenly, the door of his office opened and a beautiful young woman stepped inside along with another person, he wears a spectavle and a scientist robe and has a disheveled hair. This man was the head of monitoring and tech division within the company. James Secretary, Sasha: Sir, the report just came in, but.. there seems to be a problem with the data... There may be an error in the system. Guy in white overcoat, Henry: And I''m saying that there is no error! I''ve checked it twice, thrice! Even four times! But I was not able to find any error or glitches. Still, the record is unbelievable... I-I don''t know what to say. James: Show me the record, I want to know what this is about. I just asked for the reports of the 13 people we sent inside the game and you''re both agitated? Let see....!! Staring dumbfounded at the report, according to the information, each of the 13 people they''ve sent in the game earlier today, the two that were staring at him may have a reason to become confused. The game just lasted 3 hours, it should be equivalent to almost a day within the game, but the reports submitted were outstanding. After reading through it, James gave a happy laugh which echoed throughout the room. James: Hahahahah! Unbelievable! Shin and his friends never stops surprising me. I was right to give them this opportunity. Sasha: But... sir, how can this be right? Each one of this people are levels between 40-50, they just came in the game. Isn''t it too much? Henry: It''s unbelievable alright. Unprecedented even! Them being high leveled by just being within the game for 3 hours.. and the day is not finish yet for crying out loud. James: Don''t worry. I expect this much from them, but remember, the game will officially start tomorrow. Although we cannot stop their progress to appear in the ranking, I want you to hide their levels and names for the meantime. Sasha: Why do you want to do that. Is it a request from them? James: No, to tell you the truth, they don''t really care. Their main objectie is experience the game. But in order to not cause any negative results and jelousy from other gamers, let''s hide them for now. We''ll let the gamers themselves speak of them and then we''ll present them to the masses. Henry: That won''t be a problem. So can I get back now? I''m dying to see how their game play works! And this player named Chaos, he even have a legendary class to boot. I want to monitor this kid closely!! James: Hahahah! So am I Henry, I''ll want an updated progress from this 13 people from time to time. We still need to handle the surge of gamers that will be coming in at midnight. Henry: No need to worry at all, my team can handle them easily. Besides, because of the 13 people you sent in early, we were able to get good data and had already updated the system for major and minor glitches and errors, which there wasn''t much though. James: Good, the less problem we have, the easier it is for all of us. Sasha, get a new report of the 13 people again at the end of the day and give it to me directly. Sasha: Yes sir. Sasha POV The people that came in the game early was causing an uproar in the whole gaming division of Crimson Tech. Each employee that learned about the news were curious at this people who were making great progress within the game. Many of them were beta testers. They didn''t allow any non-company people to know of the game because of it''s secrecy. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Now, each one already have a person they wish to follow and intested in. With Sasha''s, she was still apprehensive with the data she saw. Sasha was also one of the beta testers that were allowed within the game. The first time they came in, they were surprised at how hard the game is. The realism, the pain and the monsters within the game can cause fear with the weak hearted. But now, there were people, not even older than 21, were able to surpass what the testers had contributed and progress in just a span of a single day. Sasha was considered the youngest employee, with the age of 23, within the gaming division working directly under James. She''s also one of the beta testers who are a genuine gamer of MMO but even with her knowledge, she was not able to do any better in Conqueror''s Online. Sasha was contemplating on what kind of monsters this 13 people are made of, especially the one named Chaos. They have only seen the reports and data''s of each gamer, it was mind bogling how this person was able to reach his current level in a short period of time as well as getting titles, rare items, ridiculous stats and a legendary class. Sasha plans to find out herself and within the game. She wanted to know badly at how these people work. Sasha: Henry.. I know your not going inside the game anymore, but.. being a gamer ever since, this is the first time I encountered something like this.. I need to meet this Chaos person. When it was us, leveling up was not easy and most of us were just close to getting to level 60 then but it took us several months to almost a year to do so. That''s how pierce the monster within the game is. Henry: (sigh) I know. As am I, I want to find out more about them. Did you heard, many of this kids were not even long time gamer and this Chaos, this is the first time he had played, according to the boss. Sasha: I did heard that rumor, so it came from the boss huh.. Henry: So, are you going in with the same name as before? Sasha: Of Course, that''s why you''ve got to tell me. I know you have the information of his location. Henry: (grin) Of course I know! Who do you think I am? Are you really that serious of wanting to meet this guy? He might just kill you were you stand you know? Sasha: Maybe.. maybe not, that''s why I need to meet him. Henry: Okay okay.. sheesh. Well I can only predict where he will go though. Since this people started abnormally, right in the middle of nowhere and infested with high level monsters, geez.. I don''t know how they survived! Eh.. why are you looking at me like that? Okay.. I got it.. most likely, if you waited in the beginner town of Levia, you will be able to meet him. Sasha: What? So he''s that close to a beginner town? Henry: Not really. He is far but remember the subjugation quest he completed without knowing? The quest was from the town of Levias. It was near the highway close to this town that the blood wolves were attacking people and caravans, then they drag their victims to their cave which is... on higher level on a mountain.. heheh. Sasha: Wait, I know the town of Levias. Thats where I started and if it''s a mountain.. is it Viscious Mountain range!? Henry: Why yes.. it''s just the mountain that wiped us out even before we get to it''s base. I heard, you need to be at least level 50 to survive that place. As you get higher, the level of the monsters goes up as well and at the top, there was a monster that cannot be beaten unless your over level 500.. (grin) Sasha: Yes, I still remember.. we were wiped out, it was kind of humiliating. So that means that person will be coming down from there? Henry: Yeess.. God I might also want to meet him.. hmmm! I want to see how he will go down from there. A mountain filled with monsters and fearsome beast. Sasha: Yes. As soon as I''m able to login, I will try to level and head there. Henry: Then what will you do? Climb the mountain? You''ll die at the foot of the mountain. Sasha: We''ll see. There should be a way. Henry: Suit yourself.. but in exchange for that information, tell me what''s he like? Sasha: No problem.. Henry: Okay .. that is if your able to meet him, if you do, I wonder what will happen eheheh. I can''t wait! Sasha: Gee.. Your crazy! Because of her curiousity, Sasha will be the very first adventurer who witness one of the legends within the game. This will also give her a goal to follow that will make her name famous within the game. CHAPTER 7 : CONQUERING VICIOUS MOUNTAIN CHAPTER 7 : CONQUERING VICIOUS MOUNTAIN It was 4 days past after entering the game. Chaos, fater getting the class change, was about to leave the inner cave. He noticed something flashing now and then when he move pass the dais where the Blood & Soul crystal was placed earlier, coming from the back of the cave. Curious, he went pass the dais towards the back of the cave. After jumping from the raised platform where the dais is, landing at the back, he was startled at seeing countless bones and skull of various creatures, including human ones. Mixed together with the bones, where parcels, different kind of coins including copper, silver and gold, bags and even part of wagons. Chaos: Most likely, the wolves had dragged this here, as for the wagons, that boss must be the one that pulled this all the way here. Wonder why they''re hoarding this loot. I know they will leave this bones but loots? What are they? Treasure hoarding dragons? I thought only those creature would collect treasures.. well this is a game so the legends must be different. Chaos started cleaning the coins first and even the bones and skull scattered all over, he cleaned them through, then he started checking the parcels and bags at what he will be able to use. Not all things were destroyed. He was able to find various items from the parcels such as spices, few gems and herbs. Most of the bag though are damaged and also the ones within them. There is one bag that seems to be undamaged. When Chaos peek inside he found set of armor and clothes. Chaos immediately check them: Crimson Scarf (Accessory) Type: Rare -Made from unknown thread, tough and not easily damaged. Offers resistance to cold and heat. Effect: 10% of damage dealt goes into health. Stack-able. Requirements: Level 30 Str 30 Agi 30 Dex 30 Full Black Noble Suit (Full Body Attire)* Type: Rare -Black attire the offers adequate protection. Even though it''s made of cloth, it''s defense is as good as wearing middle class armor. Very light and easy to move with. Made by a high class tailor. Defense: 90 Durability: 299/350 Effect: +5 Agility, +5 Dexterity Requirements: Level 40 Str 100 Agi 50 Dex 50 Night Greaves (Boots) Type: Rare -Black as night. Offer protection on various terrain. Even though it''s inlaid with black metals, it''s not heavy at all. Defense: 35 Durability: 236/350 Effect: +5 Agility, +5 Dexterity, -20% terrain penalty Requirements: Level 40 Str 100 Agi 50 Dex 50 Chaos immediately equipped the armor, greaves and scarf. With a sigh of relief, he now thinks that he looks descent enough and ready to continue. He again tried checking the other bags but the rest were unuseable. Lastly, Chaos check the boxes that were on the broken wagons. Although, the wagons were severely beaten or in half, the boxes within is intact. Here, he found useful items for his journey. Inside the boxes, Chaos found a camping set, dried meat(jerky), some fruits called renia that looks like an apple and a bunch of books. Chaos was glad to get books as he also likes to read sometimes. He wasnt going to read them now but he started logging in the boxes and all the other useable items into his poket space. Once everything is sorted out, Chaos was ready to depart. As he was coming back to the entrance of the boss''s lair, Chaos felt something that is coming from above. As he looked up, a bit more higher than the dais, he was able to see a small opening where the wind he felt that made him stop came from. Thinking that it''s already the 4th day in game and it''s 2 more days before the real opening of the server, and also tired of battling wolves and bat, Chaos jumps back to the dais, then using the outcropping on the wall, he skillfully traverse the wall until reaching the opening. Once there, it''s actually large enough to fit 2 people in, so Chaos followed the hole to where it was going. After traversing the small passage from the boss lair, Chaos saw the end of the passage as light is streaming through gaps in the wall. He had found out that the end of the passage is covered by thick vines. Once he''d gotten through, what Chaos saw after had taken his breath away. He was staring at an expanse of forest and he''s situated on a higher elevation. He can even see the open fields to the right at the end of the forest and can even see what looks like a settlement or village. Realizing that he is currently on a mountain, he search for a way to get to an even ground. Once he was able to get settled, for the first time, he used the map feature of the game. As he was browsing through, he was able to learn the name of the area he was in. Chaos: Okay, I''m here and this area here is called "Viscious Mountain"? The heck, isn''t the cave vicious enough, even outside, the name says it all. Well I hope there is something here that is useful that I can find before I go down and head to that village... wait what''s that? As he looked up above, he notice that he is close to the part where the mountain meets the cloud. Excited on the experience of being able to climb a mountain that even reach the cloud, instead of descending the mountain, Chaos started climbing up. The way up the mountain isn''t peaceful. He encountered monsters that lives in the mountain area. First monster he encountered was a sort of mountain goat looking ram. Once he got closer, it immediately tried to run him through. As soon as Chaos entered battle, he learned that it''s a Viscious Ram Guardian. The level is 35. Although it''s leveled than the wolves, it''s much easier to handle since it only have one attack pattern. Chaos was able to defeat it in 3 minutes by stabbing it in the neck repeatedly. Going up with a faster face, Chaos encountered more of the viscious ram but he was able to take care of them even if they number 2-3. Upon ascending for an hour, Chaos notice that he did not encounter a ram for several minutes now. Then suddenly, he heard a screeching sound coming from above. Without notice and due to the clouds became closer, a bird like creature swoop down and swipe him. Chaos were not able to dodge completely and received damage. "Critial Hit! You receive 210 damage" Chaos: Guh! That was quick, I did not expect a monster diving in from above. Hearing the screech, it is already above me. Damn! And it''s faster than the bat and flew away quickly, how to deal with you..." As Chaos was contemplating about what to do, his instinct warn him of another attack from behind. He quickly lowered his body almost to the ground and did a sudden counter attack to whatever tried to attack him from behind. He landed a hit at the creature that attacked him, and this cause the creature to plummet down beside him. Shin quickly lunge at the creature that fell down. Shin also found out that the ones that''s attacking him was harpies. Half woman half bird, their heads is that of a hag with shriveled skin and dark eyes, their arms are compose of wings and their feet were large claws. This time, they are at level 50 and called Viscious Harpy. The harpy that fell tried to quickly flee but Chaos quickly lunge and slashed the harpy in it''s wings completely severing the left side. He followed with a quick punch at the back of the harpy 4-5 times. The harpy tried to claw him but he was able to dodge. While dodging, another harpy swipe down on him. Depending on his instict like before, he was only graze on his back and avoided critical hit, and like the first harpy, he quickly slash the fleeing harpy and manage to fell the 2nd one as well. Having the two creature in the ground, he was able to finish them off by slashing their neck and severing their heads. After killing the two harpies, Chaos once again got a notification popup. "You have leveled up!" "Agility +2, Dexterity +2, Flexibility +1" "You have gained as skill: Enemy Detection" "You have obtained soul card Viscious Harpy: Common" "You have obtained essence card Viscious Harpy: Common" Chaos quickly opened his pocket space and closed down the entrance. Contemplating on how hard he worked just to fell his previous opponents, if there were more of them, all he can do is run if he''s attack on all sides. Even with enemy detection skill, or his instinct, non stop attack must be avoided. As he was trying to think of a way to move forward, he suddenly remembered about his skills. He recently gained a class but he haven''t use it at all. Chaos: Ah crap! I totally forgot about my class and skill. I wonder if it would be any help. Guess I gotta try it out. Chaos first tried attack summoning. Since this will be the first time he will use magic, at first he does not have any idea of what to do. He tried shouting the name of the skill, nothing happened. He tried concentrating, nothing happened. Finally, he remembered the time when he use the "seven vorpal cutting" when he was fighting the wolves. He successfully performed the skill but the system did not recognize it as his own so it did not register in his skill list. But the feeling he got at that time, his spirit points decreased as well when he checked his stats. Chaos repeated the same method, adding imagination of what he think about summoning an attack, after several minutes, a notification appeared on the screen. "You do not have a creature registered as an attacker, please register an attack creature first" Chaos: Huh? How do I register a creature then? This is so complicated, why did this became my class anyway? Hmmm... Chaos pulled up the advance information sceen for the class he had just received. Dark Summoner One of the legendary class found in one of the herald made by the "Creator" who was active in war during the dark era. Souls of creatures defeated by this class are tend to be attacted to the summoner, thus they appear more frequently after getting defeated. Advance Information: Class Trait: -Essence Card drop rate +50%, Soul Card drop rate +50%. Monster with Unique and above specification, 100% drop rate. -When summoned servants that are within 25 meter radius, servant''s stat +20%. -Dark Summoner gets additional 100 mana for every level that has been gained. -For every 1 Intelligence and Wisdom stats, it is equal to 10 mana. -Dark Summoner''s Mana recovery speed +50%. Chaos thinks, it gives a good perk but is more leaning to a magician class. As he pondered on what to do, of the four class specific skill he obtained, one is not a summoning but a binding. Binding to him would be close to the word registration. Chaos tried to activate the skill, again imagining about "binding" a creature. Suddenly, a notification came up on the screen and a list of certain items he acquired previously came up on a window. "Please select a soul to bind within you.." Chaos: Huh.. this is all the item cards I obtained. Let''s see, what if I choose this. Chaos selected the essence card "Vampire Bat: Common" on his card list. After wards a notification appeared once again. "This type is only of essence. Summoning using this type, the creature will only last 1 hour. Would you like to coninue?" After learning of this, Chaos has a vague idea of how this summon servant skill works. He declined the use of the essence then tried the soul type card next. "Soul type of a creature. This contains the full life of a creature. Summoning this creature will last until you unsummon it. Summoning it out again will not drain your health, only half of the mana required initially. Creature will grow as much as time it was summoned. Would you like to summon using this soul type?" This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Chaos: Hoh! Neat, so it''s definitely a servant type. Heheh.. like one of those games Crest was playing. Like taming monster or something... Okay, let''s try it. After confirming the binding. The soul card, Darkwing of Blood: Unique floated in front of him. It''s original coppery color started to change to black with red highlights, while the name of the servant is in copper. Then a notification came up. "Successfully binded a Darkwing of Blood" "Servant has been added to your roster" "soul card had been used" "Would you like to name your servant?" Chaos: Good. Your name name will be... let see... ah! Alucard. Next, Chaos tried the "Servant Summoning". As he started the summoning ritual, a red and blue summoning circle appeared on his feet, afterwards when he look around, the red pentagram separated and followed the place he was looking at. It seems that he can designate where the servant will appear. Chaos desided to summon in front of him. As the summoning circle start shining, he can feel his mana and health draining quickly from him. Chaos: Aack! This is serious stuff. I felt dizzy for a moment. I can really feel my life and mana being sucked out. I can''t use this in battle.. maybe. As the summoning circle gradually dimmed, the same monster he fought for the first time after logging in is in the middle of the red summoning circle. The bat flew and landed in his shoulder, meek like a bird. Chaos opened up the advance information of the bat. Alucard (Darkwing of Blood) Level 5 HP: 50 MP: 40 Str: 11 Vit: 10 Agi: 13 Dex: 5 Int: 8 Wis: 3 Tackle: 11-18 Life drain: 5HP/sec (2.5HP/sec) Bleed (passive): Causes bleed for 1 minute, 5HP/sec. Sonic wave: causes confusion to all enemies 5 meters around the caster, 20 sec. Chaos: Cool! Looks cute too eheheh! Okay now, to register this ability. Chaos pulled up his summoning menu. He was able to register "Life Drain" to the attach summoning. Afterwards, he rested for a bit by meditating in the middle of the room of his pocket dimension. After recovering his health and mana to full. He registered the boss card he obtained, Wolf of Carnage Alpha: Boss, but did not summon it yet since he''s only able to summon one servant at a time. He was happy because he now have something like a companion. The bat even reply by "squeeking" whenever he speaks to it. The summon is very unique because it''s a type NPC that''s able to think but very loyal to him. He was down when he learned about the Dark summoner class because he wanted a warrior class but now, he was satisfied. After making sure that his life and mana is full. He went out to continue his ascent. Chaos encountered some harpies but with the help of his summon, using it''s sonic skill, he was able to defeat the harpies with ease. As he continued climbing up, he started encountering the guardian rams again, but with higher level. As he was being attacked by several of the rams, a different colored ram with larger horns showed up and attacked him as well. It was harder to dispatch because it has extra skill. Whenever it charges, it''s horn discharges electricity so in the area around it''s horn, causes static damage. After some time, Chaos was able to defeat it having his life and his summon in critical condition. He unsummoned the bat to recover and summoned the Wolf of Carnage Alpha that he named "Red". It was as he remembered but less intimidating, smaller than before but larger than the regular blood wolf. Most likely because it''s still at a lower level. He reviewed the wolf''s status before heading out. Red (Wolf of Carnage Alpha: Boss) Level 10 HP: 690 MP: 40 Str: 28 Vit: 23 Agi: 21 Dex: 11 Int: 12 Wis: 10 Bite: 40 - 63 Claw: 28 - 56 Howl: Paralyze enemes through fear. 5 sec, 5 meters Devour: Devour blood from enemies. 25% of damage done. Bleed (passive) Satisfied with the massive wolf behind him, he headed out once again. The atmosphere begin to become colder as well as the air become thin. Chaos remembered when he was being trained by Master Hao. They went to Mt. Everest and trained there for a month. What he was feeling now was just half of Mt. Everest''s atmosphere so it did not bother him much. Chaos continued and encounter guardian rams and harpies within the low visibility area where the mountain meets the cloud, but because of his enemy detection skill and Red, it did not pose a problem to them and since Red was able to devour the monsters after the fight, it''s health did not fall to critical. Afterwars, Chaos broke through the cloud and saw the sun that was still shining in the sky. He was almost to the top, and as he walk the path to the top, he eventually found some herbs and berries that he gathered along the way. He was planning on summoning Alucard again but since the sun is up in the sky, he thought it would be weaken. As he near the peak of the mountain, he was always expecting a fight, especially at the end of any given path, of course one would expect an encounter. As he was checking his inventory and status, someone suddenly spoke behind him. ???: Are you an adventuer? Chaos: What the!? Jeez, you surprised me old man... by the way.. who are you? Old monk, Kusanagi: I am called Kusanagi, and I am the guardian of the temple on top of this mountain. Chaos: Ookayy.. so what are you doing here and not in your temple, are you picking berries or something..? Kusanagi: I wish I am young one.. but I was cast out from the temple. Something invaded it few months ago and we tried to fought the creature but to no avail, many of my colleagues died and I''m the only one left.. Chaos: I''m sorry to hear that old man. Do you want me to help? Kusanagi: I would love to but as I can see, I don''t think that you can at your level. Chaos: What do you mean, is the creature really that strong? Kusanagi: It is. If you would like, you can take a look but I warn you, do not engage it for you will perish like nothing. Chaos: Okay, I''ll check.. Chaos headed higher and ascended the slopes of the mountain until he reach the peak. At the peak of the mountain, one would not think it''s a mountain because it''s like an open flat field the side of two footbal stadium. At the other side of the field, one can see a small hill, no a cave. The cave was not deep and Chaos can see that at the end, there was a shrine that the old man Kusanagi was talking about. However, right next to the shrine is a massive creature. It seems to be busy so Chaos approached it carefully. Chaos noticed that it seems to be eating something. As the creature raise it''s head, Chaos suddenly was attacked by a heavy pressiur unlike that one that he felt from the wolf. It''s a hundred times fiercer and cold sweat run down his back. The creature has many heads and he was able to see it''s name and level before hiding himself. Chaos applied all the skills he learned from Master Asuna. The creature is a dragon. It''s name is "Yamato no Orochi" and it''s level 700. Truly a monster. The old man was right. It''s a good thing he hid when he tried checking it. As the dragon continued devouring it''s prey, it lost interest at whatever was in the surrounding. Chaos quickly left silently and descend back to where the old man is. Before getting the old man, he got a notification pop up. "You have been struck by terror, your stamina will drain quickly and speed, dexterity and strengh is halved" "You have encountered one of the legendary creatures in the continent of Argonia, Fame +50" "You have gained a skill: Hide Presence" Chaos''s face looked cramped when he reach the old man Kusanagi. Chaos: You''re right old man. I''m not no match for that dragon. Kusanagi: (sigh) It is important to stop this dragon before it''s too late but there''s not many people who venture up this mountain. Chaos: What will happen if the dragon stayed there. Kusanagi: This is suppose to be a secret. But since you came here after months of waiting and struggling, I''ll tell you. The dragon is corrupting the shrine. The shrine is a seal to one of the evil gods that was sealed after the dark era. If the seal weaken, there is a big chance that the evil god will awaken. If that happens, the dark era once again will cover this world. Chaos: ..... Hell that''s definitely grave. Old man, how long do we have left until the seal on this shrine broke? Is it repairable once after the dragon is taken care of? Kusanagi: Wh-what? You''re coming back to that dragon? Chaos: Of course! The reason for my journey is to become strong and to fight strong opponents. That dragon fits my criteria (grinning maliciously) Kusanagi: Hahahah! Incredible! And here I thought you became afraid because of how you look after coming back. Chaos: Nah.. It''s actually because I can''t even try to fight it because of how weak I am. Kusanagi: I see.. then there is hope because of you. Very well, if my calculation is correct, then we still have One.. no! half a year before the seal breaks. Can you become stronger by then adventurer? Chaos: Who do you think I am. I''ll conquer this continent and that dragon is just a stepping stone in my way. Don''t worry old man, I''m not alone. "We" will come back here if I''m not strong enough myself and subjugate this dragon. I will definitely come back and make that dragon my servant! Kusanagi: (dumbfounded look) .. Servant? Hahahah! I hear you and I believe you. Then I''ll look forward to it. Oh! I almost forgotten, it may help with defeating the dragon if you can find my sword. Chaos: Eh? That''s also here? Kusanagi: What? Chaos: Oh nothing, so where can I find this sword and what''s it''s name? Kusanagi: It was actually lost a month ago. We had it sent for purification by one of our maiden. It''s the sword "Kusanagi" after my name. If you can find it, we can definitely defeat the dragon. "Quest Start!" Quest: Find the blade "Kusanagi" Type: Lore Quest Info: The blade Kusanagi was lost a month ago and did not came back from purification. Find the maiden that was sent to purify it and return it to the monk, Kusanagi. Goal: Find the blade within 6 months. Success: Found the Weapon Kusanagi and gain a new weapon. Failure: Intimacy with the monk will fall. He will be less helpful on fighting the dragon, the blade falls into someone elses hand or the six months will pass. Level: C+ Reward: Blade Kusanagi ????? Requirement: Climb to the peak of Viscious Mountain, impress the monk Kusanagi It was an automatic quest given to him just like before but he don''t plan on refusing them. After saying goodbye to the old monk, Chaos departed and started descending the mountain with renewed vigor. He really wanted to battle this dragon. Chaos was able to descend the mountain faster than climbing it. The two days left of the 6 day that was given to him by James was over once he neared the base of the mountain. The rest of the world is now online. Conqueror online is now truly open. User''s will be coming in non-stop to make a name for themselves in the world of Endia. AN: *The attire should look like what Sho and Kai wear in Guilty Gear. Full Black with red highlights. CHAPTER 8 : THE TOWN OF LEVIA CHAPTER 8 : THE TOWN OF LEVIA Sasha/Lilith POV Beore 12 midnight of December 31st, Sasha is one of the many that is waiting for the Conqueror Online''s server to open. She was already prepared and was lying down, waiting for the opening. It was 2 minutes before 12 midnight. Sasha was organizing her thoughts on how to meet Chaos. She was was a genuine gamer. When she first became one of the beta tester for Conqueror Online, she was very happy but after awhile of playing the game, she was sometimes feeling down when she get''s killed by monsters within the game. But now, there was excitement in her because of a man that was able to surpass their expectation. Last they check, he was pass 40th level and going down the Viscious Mountain. It will take several hours for him to go down so she was wracking her brain on how she can go to at least the base of the mountain. Until an idea came up where several of her colleagues at work also wanted to meet Chaos. It was the "Chaos fans" that agreed to acompany her to the mountain. First they will grind their level to at least level 5, then head straight to the mountain. Now, the game is almost open and her excitement went up one more level. "Welcome to Conqueror Online!" "Please choose a starting town" Sasha: Levia. "Please choose your race" Sasha: Human. "Choose your name" Sasha: Lilith.. "Would you like to modify your appearance?" Sasha: As is. "Would you like to familiarize yourself with movements and basic menu?" Sasha: No, thank you. "Again, welcome to Conqueror Online. Goodluck adventurer and may you conquer everything in your path.." As she was bathe in light for a few seconds then afterwards, she was in a familiar view that she still remembers clearly. The town of Levia. As she already know where to go, she equipped her beginner''s equipment and headed for the town''s gate. She ignore the old man that usually teach where to go to beginners. There were already many user that had logged in, some wore happy, or dumbfounded expression. Some were serious and like them, headed to the gate to kill their first monsters. Once Sasha reached the gate, few men and women called out her attention. Sasha: Are we all here? Good, ready to go? Everyone: Hell yeah! As Sasha and the group headed out, some other users were curious and followed them. Some even right out asked where they are headed or wanted to come with them not knowing what the reason is. Others think it''s a quest they''re headed to but no one knows. Soon, Sashas group of 10 became 20. They''ve formed a 5 man party then started hunting rabbits and slimes. They leveled up first up to level 5 as they intended then headed out to the Viscious mountain. It took them four hours to level up to 5, so most of the people in Sasha''s group are level 5 and the others are level 4 going to level 5. On the way to the mountain, they started encountering stronger monsters such as wolves and goblins. The group was still lucky because they did not encounter large group of this monsters. They only encountered 1-3 in groups so they manage to defeat the monsters without casualties. As they are nearing the base of the mountain, their luck started running out. A large orc appeared at their back along with many numbers of goblins. Frantically running towards the mountain, they already lost 3 members who were caught up by the rampaging monsters. Once they reached the base of the mountain, their hopes plummeted down. Standing in their way was another orc but larger and fully armed along with 4 normal orcs. As it enter the fray, the group finally see it''s level and name. It was a unique monster called Kurchak the Viscious, and it''s a level 21 monster. ???: What are we going to do Lilith, this is impossible. Sasha: I know! Where almost there, I thought we were lucky only encountering easy monster early but.. this.. is too much! ???: Just a little more and probably we''ll be safe? ???: They are coming here.... Yaahhrrgh! Sashas party started dying one by one, from their number of 20, it went down quickly to 8, and most of them are in critical level. With all hope''s lost, suddenly, the orc that will end their lives suddenly stopped. When they looked at it, it''s slowly separating to two. It''s been cleaved in half. Once the orc was split in half, the person that had done so is standing in front of them. A youth with a long black hair and red eyes are staring at them grinning. ???: Heyah guys! Need help? Sasha: Wha-what are you...? ???: Lilith! It''s him! Sasha: You.. you''re... Chaos: Name''s Chaos. Nice to meet you. (gracefully bowed with hand in his chest) I hope don''t mind me stealing some of this monsters from you? Sasha: Ah! B-by all means, they''re yours. Chaos: By your permission.. You hear that guys! Now..... DIE! As soon as the player named Chaos finish speaking. All monsters in the vicinity flinch. Even the orcs and the unique orc monster backed away. At the same time, a large roar can be heared in the background. When they looked at it''s direction, they saw a large red wolf coming down quickly from the mountain. Sasha thought that there is another high leveled monster that will join the fray but became dumbfounded when it start tearing the goblins to pieces. One of the user that survived asked Sasha what''s going on but she can only say that "help had come". An unbelievable sight in front of them is unfolding. An army of goblins and large number of orcs are decimated by a player and the red wolf. In just a few minutes, all monsters have been taken care of but the unique monster orc. Chaos: Wooot! A unique huh. You''ll be a good addition to my forces. In just few minutes, when the player, Chaos started his assault on the unique monster orc, it''s life fell to critical immediately. He did not even need help from the red wolf. The wolf started devouring the fallen monster around them. The orc maybe because of pride, made a last stand and attacked furiously but none had hit Chaos. And finally, once it stopped moving, it''s life ended without it''s head on it''s body. The player Chaos, smiling, checked the loot from the orc then headed straight at them. The wolf devoured the fallen unique orc as well and followed Chaos towards them as well. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. Chaos: So.. are you going to continue on to the mountain? Just a warning, you won''t last a minute there, the monsters level once you entered the mountain vicinity is level 30 and as you go up, their level will rise as well. Sasha: Ah.. no, we won''t, we know our limit.. anyway my name is Sa-ahem! Lilith! Chaos: Eh? Okay, again nice to meet you Lilith. Sasha: (blushing) D-did you conquer the Viscious mountain just now? ???: Wait! How is this possible? The server had just opened and your this strong? You must be cheating! One of the user that came with Sasha accused Chaos of cheating. Having an unbelievable strength and fighting skills on the start of server opening, not everyone who knows of the truth will be so believing of the current situation. Sasha: You! How dare you imply of such thing. He saved us and.. Chaos: Nah.. it''s alright. You, what''s your name? User named Raval: The name''s Raval, and I''m going to pursue to conquer this game! Now answer my question! Chaos: Tsk.. For starters, don''t you know manners? Forgetting that I''ve saved your hide from being obliterated and missing 6 days game play within the game. And isn''t it rude to ask how a player became strong? Each one of us users need to find a way to become strong isn''t it? Raval: Bu-but that strength.. you..! Chaos: Then I''ll enlighten you. Sasha: Chaos, you don''t have to.. Chaos: It''s alright Lilith. You see, while you were leveling up after logging in, I''ve dash through places looking for high level monsters instead of building up my levels from small fries then going up the food chain. That''s not my style. Raval: That''s impossible! If your a lower level, then you will be no match to higher level monsters. Chaos: (sigh) of course I would, but don''t you know, if you look for the right higher level monsters, there is a chance to win? Using skills is the key but as I can see... you really lack some. Raval: Of course we do, we''re just beginners and.... Chaos: No. I''m talking about real life skills. You can use them here in this game and that will give you advantage, don''t you know that? Raval: I have read of it but. Sasha: AH! quit your bitching damnit! If you don''t try out every ways to become strong, you won''t get far in this game! Raval: Uuuhh... Chaos: Hahahah! You people are fun. So shall we go? Chaos POV After saving the people that were being attacked by horde of monsters, they decided to go back to the town. Chaos is wanted to at least be within town before log out. The journey back to town was uneventful. He decided not to party with the users that were coming back, not to hide his level but because he won''t gain anything from it. He agreed to be a guard for them in case another horde came up. Chaos unsummoned Red and summoned Alucard. He ordered the bat to check the vicinity with a large number of monsters. Once the location is known, Chaos will disappear from the group then will reappear after few minutes having geting rid of the group of monsters. What he was looking for are unique monsters. Because of this, he was able to find an Alpha wolf, a Golden Boar and Bloody Rabbit. All unique of their species, while the rest in the group were able to grind without worry on higher level monsters. Chaos from time to time will send monsters to them that they can handle. What gave them more experience is fighting dark rabbit because if gives large experience for lower level players. It took them just 2 hours to go back to the town of Levia. The group that were levels 4-5 were now 12-15. The group were happy of the fast level up and was sad that they were parting ways with Chaos. They all parted ways before the gate of the town and the last to say goodbye was Sasha. Sasha: Chaos, I.. can I acompany you on your journey back to the town? Chaos: I''m sorry Lilith. My road is perilous. My path is of strength. If you can prove to me that you can follow me, then next time we meet, I will allow you to accompany me. Sasha: (sigh) Alright, I''ll hold you into to it. Watch me, I''ll sure to catch up to you. Chaos: I''ll look forward to it. Don''t worry, once your ready, I''ll find you. Before parting ways with Lilith, they registered each other as friends. Even Raval had done the same earlier. Chaos entered the town of Levia. Once inside, he felt the aura of the place as different from what he felt from his neighborhood. It was kind of refreshing being on a medieval kind of environment. Chaos continued on within the town. As he was fascinated with things that are for sale, he became more interested with stalls that sells food. ?: Sir, come buy some of this fried squid. It''s good I tell you! ??: Crepes! Crepes! Different varieties, come all while it last! ???: Sweet potato! You won''t be sorry and would want more! Chaos: Holy crap! There''s alot.. I''ll try some of them then. Chaos had purchased the food he was drawn in and after some time, he had bought quite a lot. Next, he went closer to the center of the town. When he asked for direction where the mayor is, he was directed to the center of the town. As he go closer to the center of the town, he pass some shops that sells trinkets and some for items for daily use. There are some that sells magic items as well. Chaos stops at some of this shops to browse through. He found items that will be useful to him. One is a box storage, if food and ingredients that gets affected by weather and time were store in, they will still be the same state when taken out. There were various sizes, Chaos wanted the biggest one but it was 20 Gold. He tried to haggle, just like what he usually do when buying food for the masters at the pier. Since he''s new, he was able to haggle the price down to 18 Gold which is almost all his money. Chaos was satisfied though because the largest size was a compartment half the size of his pocket space room. Once he increase his dimension skill, he will be able to organizze it properly. After getting what he needed, and before heading to the mayor''s house, he turned in an empty alley and disappear from sight. CHAPTER 9 : DREAMS AND GOAL CHAPTER 9 - DREAMS AND GOAL Logging out after spending more than 24 hours within the game, Shin felt stiffness with his body. He notice that some of his friends had already logged out a most likely doing warm up stretching. Shin though headed straight to the kitchen to prepare food but as he came into the kitchen, Celena was already there. Shin: I guess were having chinese food today huh (grinning) Celena: Ah Shin, I thought you will not log out yet, I thought I would cook for once since your unavailable. Shin: That would be great. Everyone here knows how good a cook you are. This is great. Are the masters all here? Celena: No, Master Asuna is still with with Mr. CEO. Shin: Pity, she would miss your cooking. Celena: (blush) I''m not that good you know. I just copied that cook in the restaurant and I learned how but I''m not confident. Shin: You should be. Everyone of us will vouch for you. Celena: You.. don''t say embarassing things, I might fall for you, you know~ ???: Oooh, a pink atmosphere is in air huh. Celena: Cray! You don''t want food do you!? Cray: Oh hey hey, I''m just kidding kay? Sheesh! I''ve just finished practice and you won''t believe how many cracks and creeks you can hear while I''m at it heheheh. Celena: This will take more time Shin, go move your body or do stretching as well, I know how stiff the body is after sleeping for 24 hours and waking up. Shin: Okay, but don''t start without me yeah!? After some time, the food was prepared and at the same time, everyone had woken up, done practice and stretching and gathered for food. Master Asuna had returned as well from work and was already eating with them. Everyone has stories to tell and the masters were quietly listening to their students. Shin: Masters, two of you can go in the game as well. You should really try it, in there, you will find something that even you cannot beat. Hao: Hohoh! Really? I want to have a go with that. Shin, did you meet something there that you cannot beat? Crest: Yeah Shin, tell us what happened with you in there. Shin: What are you talking about, everyone of you had already have a class change as far as I''ve heard. And each seems to be unique too.. legendary classes right? Cray: You got us, but we still don''t know about yours right everyone? See they all want to know. Shin: It''s not that great but first, I may need your help at that creature that I''m unable to beat. Ryu: Brother Shin, your really serious when you said there is something you cannot beat? Shin: Hey! I cannot beat our masters okay? Ash: That''s not the point, what kind of creature are you unable to beat and what level are you huh??? Shin: Okay, well I''m level 45. We''re almost at the same level anyway. But the creature I met is level 700. Seth: Seriously!? That''s way overleveled. No wonder you cannot beat it. Ash: Right... that''s some serious threat. Garr: If it''s that strong, I want to have a go with it. Shin: Nah, even if everyone of us meet right now and go, we''ll still be no match, and we would''ve last just a few minutes on it anyway. Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there. Ash: So is it a God level or Legendary? Shin: Legendary. It''s name is.. Yamata no Orochi. Kenshin: What did you say!? Shin: Eh? Master, are you interested? Kenshin: You can say that. You know I''m into old literature and Yamato no Orochi is one of my favorites. What does it look like? Shin: I''m not sure how many heads it have, but definitely not a snake as mentioned in the history. I guess the system or the creator does not belive Orochi is just a snake.. it''s a huge ass dragon. Kenshin: Hao, Tang, I will go into the game tonight, Asuna should be tired and rest. One of you have to go. I promise I will be the guard tomorrow, but I wish to meet this Yamato no Orochi of the legends. Cray: Master, I think even you won''t last long against this dragon. Kenshin: I know young one. That''s why I will become strong, just like you. I will catch up and don''t you dare leave me out when you''re confronting it. Shin: The monk who''s guarding the shrine had given me a time frame. 6 months in game time but I have to come back earlier as I need to look for the sword Kusanagi. Crest: That''s less than 25 days in real time. Master! Kenshin: Hao, Tang, Asuna! Asuna: No need to worry, Kenshin. We know this is important to you. When was the last time we saw that fire lit up in your eyes hmmm? Hao: Bwahahah, she''s right, it''s something that will make your blood boil, you do have to prepare for it. Tang: What are you two talking about, we''re included as well. Hao & Asuna: Eh? Why? Tang: Aren''t you curious at how the children had told their stories? The undead, Vampires, Giants, Angels, Devils. They all exist within the game. Don''t you have something you want to face with all your might? For me, I wanted to challenge a different an army using this hand of mine and the skills I garenered throughout my life. Asuan: You''re right. I want to see this Assassins and ninjas if they are worth their names. Hao: Bwahaha! I want to fight giants and a God or two.. Bwahahaha~ Shin: Geez, the masters are all in their worlds now. Celena: They''re just like us. Their boredom is too much and this is a chance to release their pent up rage within themselves. Jin: Yeah, and I want to see how the masters will do in that world as well. But I won''t just bow down, I will fight master withinn the game someday. Garr: We all do, in there, we may need a whole continent to fight on our hearts content. Shin: Don''t worry guys. Once I become strong enough, I can create a dimension for us to have a good spar hehehe. Cray: Heyyy, I almost forgot, we still don''t know your class. Spill! Arielle: Yes, brother. You know about ours, what about yours? Shin: Eh? I didn''t tell yet? hahah... you won''t expect my class anyway, it''s not a fighter class. Crest: What?? Are you serious, why did you choose that way. Shin: Beats me, it just came to me, so I accepted it. At first, I have hesitation but now, I think it''s a cool class. Ash: What is it then? Shin: A summoner. CHAPTER 10 : PK CHAPTER 10 : PK The group was able to get permission from the masters to login to the game and spend more time in it. They promised to still practice their martial arts after logging out and take care of their bodies. Their master also thinks it''s still a sort of training for them. Some of the group member went home, carrying their unit with them, Arielle have to check with the orphanage and work so most likely, Arielle and Celena will be the ones that won''t be able to level up as fast as them. Back within the game, Chaos was inside his pocket dimension, organizing his items. He notice that the space had become a bit bigger than before. Most likely, because of the skill growing. Chaos still do not have much storage to arrange the items to but thanks to the boxes he obtained earlier as well as the food compartment, he was able to sort out at least the perishable food. Within the storage he bought, it was almost the size of the room, like a walk-in closet but bigger. It already came with fixed boxes, shelves and cabinets where he can place various and different types of perishable goods. All the the cooked food Chaos bought from the market goes to one box, then all the spices to another and then comes the ingredients. He only stored the meat he obtained from the beast within the food compartment as well as parts of the monster he got that will rot. Afterwards are the equipment he obtained. He checked them thoroughly if it''s useable. He''s already having problem on how to use the previous unique equipment he obtained properly, as it can only be fully use by warrior type classes. He can use them but with only 10% of it''s performance and the weapon effect is canceled. Chaos started checking the useful equipments he obtained after he came out of the cave. Lightning Gauntlet (Gauntlet) Type: Rare -Gauntlet blessed by lightning spirits. Good for fast and precise attacks. -Said to shock all enemies that has been strike by this weapon. Attack: 80 - 100 Defense: 65 Durability: 300/350 Effect: +20% to Attack Speed +10% lightining damage 20% chance to paralyze opponent +10% lightning resistance Requirments: Warrior Type Class Level 50 Str 120 Agi 50 Dex 40 Int 20 Regen Earring (Low)(Accessory) Type: Uncommon -Able to heal light woulds when worn. -Stackable. Effect: Heals 10 HP/5 seconds. Requirements: Level 40 Int 20 Wis 20 Lucky Ring (Accessory) Type: Uncommon -Gives Luck to wearer. -Monster drops loot more often. Effect: +10 Luck +5% probability to monsters drop rare items. Requirements: Level 40 Luk 10 Small Axe (Axe) Type: Common -Common wood axe usually found in wood cutter''s hut. -Sharp and easy to use. Attack: 10-15 Durability: 33/100 Effect: none Requirements: Level 5 Bloody Tomahawk (Axe) Type: Rare -Axe that have been used for killing. -Very sharp and still has traces of blood on it''s blade. Attack: 40-70 Durability: 99/350 Effect: 20% chance to cause Bleed Requirements: Warrior Type Class Level 30 Str 70 Agi 15 Dex 10 Done checking on the equipment, Chaos was abit perturbed as the good equipment are increasing in numbers but he''s unable to use them. He equipped the regen earring and luck ring at least and got his second weapon that has no class requirement. He will now try to raise his switch weapon skill to level it up using this two weapons. Now, the last items he would check will be the cards he obtained from the monsters. This card in this game will be treated as a perishable item but to him, it was his blood. Now, one of his goal is to collect all the unique and boss monster soul card he could get his hands on. He started binding the new cards he obtained to increase the selection of servant he could summon however, he did not bind all the cards, just one of each monster. He plans to level them up to avoid having his servant dying during a fight. It took him an hour to bind all the monsters as he lacked mana to bind them all at once. Everytime he depletes his mana, he will go into meditative state to recover his body. Because of this, he finally learned a magician class skill. "You have gained a skill: Meditation" Chaos checked the skill and as he expected, it was what he was trying to do to recover. Lastly, the box that contains books that he also obtained in the cave, he checked what book was in there so he can start reading them when he could. He learned that it''s not just books that is in the box. There were also parchment, something that looked like a soul card but he was unable to tell, most likely he''s unable to identify them. There was also letters and as for the books, he checked them one by one. Of the books that he was browsing through, he found them interesting as the volumes includes Elemental Affinities and there were books for each of the elements. There was also a diary included and Chaos was most interested in it. He promised to read this after the issue with the mayor is done. He also found rare skill books among the numbers of books and he did not use it right away, he plans to sort them out later. He took the parcel of letters with him afterwards. After having everything taken care of, he finally went out of his pocket space and headed through towards the mayor''s house. On the way there, some user''s he pass by look at him curiously. Since he''s already wearing good equipments, some users with malicious intent started following him. Chaos was aware of those people but was not bothered. He reach the mayor''s residence after a few more minutes of walking. After knocking on the door, a kind looking old woman opened it for him and smiled at him warmly. Old woman: What can I do for you young man? Chaos: Hello! I''m here for the mayor.. are you the mayor? Old woman: Oh my no. The mayor you seek is my husband. Come in and have a seat, I will call him for you. Chaos: Thank you for your hospitality. Mayor''s Wife: What a charming young man. No worries, I''ll get some tea as well. The mayor''s wife came back carrying tea and biscuits. There was a man following her from behind. Mayor: Nice to meet you young man. I''m the mayor of this fair town of Levia. My wife told me you have some business with me? Chaos: Yes, actually, I''m here about the trouble you''re having with caravans running from here to the city and vice versa? Mayor: Ah.. ye-yes... We are still troubled by it. The caravans had stopped coming in from the city until a subjugation group can be called out to take care of the monster problem. We are deeply worried as this will affect our economy. Also, the last caravan that went missing has some important information with them from the leader of the capital city of Sylvania. Chaos: Is this the letter, the information that you are talking about? Chaos took out the parcel of letters and showed it to the mayor. As soon as the mayor looked at the letters, he was shocked as the letters has indeed have the seal of the leader of Sylvania Capital City. They have not been opened at all, so the mayor looked at Chaos in disbelief. Mayor: You have this, does this mean you.. Chaos: Yep! You''re right at what you''re thingking. The monsters that were attacking the caravans were red colored wolves but as a matter of fact, those were blood wolves that lives in Vicious Mountain. I found them in the cave of their Alpha, after I killed it. Mayor: I-incredible! You''re so young yet you were able to vanquished the beast that were terrorizing armed caravans... by yourself? Chaos: Ah.. I understand if you don''t believe me. I am alone after all and I just ended up in that mountain during my journey. Mayor: I see! So you are one of the adventurers that began appearing few days ago. I did heard that adventurers such as yourself are stronger than the usual, but I cannot imagine your this strong. Chaos: Nah.. I''m still in training so I''m not strong at all. Anyway, I should be going, I finish what I came here for and thank you for the lovely tea and cookies. Mayor: W-wait! Please don''t leave yet. At least try to get the rewards I and the leaders of the city had gathered as a reward. Chaos: Hmmm? There''s no need, after all, I only stumbled upon their cave and did not even know they were terrorizing your caravans. Mayor''s Wife: How humble of you young man. Most people would jump at the word reward but you''re refusing it.. Mayor: Yes, you are a hero. You don''t know what you have done for this town at least. I insist, please take the reward money as intended. Chaos: I don wanna. You told me earlier that the caravans had stopped coming right? If it''s been awhile that it did, your town may be suffering a bit. If you insist in giving that to me, then use it to recover from this damage. Mayor: Ah.. unbelievable. I did not think that there is still someone like you in this world. This reward will definitely help our town but I''m ashamed to use it. What to do.. Chaos: (sigh) very well. How much is it? Mayor: Eh? Ah, it''s 1000 gold coins. Chaos: Alot huh.. well like I said, I can get that amount myself when I continue my journey.. Then please do this, report that the subjugation of the monster has been completed. Show them the letters I gave you and if they need more proof, here''s the pelt of the monsters. I took this and preserve it when I found this parcels and some items at the cave. I thought I might need it. Mayor: This will be a big help if we indeed show this pelt. It must have been a hard battle.. Chaos: It was, give me a run for my money too.. heheh. Mayor: Hahahah! Amazing! Your definitely interesting boy. Chaos: So, are we all set? Mayor: We might.. but I would still like to give you something. Chaos: Eh.. but.. Mayor''s Wife: We insist. Please, at least accept this item from us as a thank you. Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on. Mayor: Yes, take part of the reward money and this item. Chaos: But.. that''s still alot! Fine I''ll take part of the part your giving me (grin). Mayor: Gah.. we really can''t beat you.. and this item. It''s an heirloom from my father and his father before that. They were adventurer back in the days as well. They found this item but don''t know the heck what it is. It''s unidentifiable. Chaos: Really? Yeah, I can''t identify it myself.. must be an advance item. But is it alright? It''s a heirloom after all. Mayor: Yes yes, it''s one of their heirloom. It''s okay to give you one, we''re not even able to use it anyway. Chaos: Okay, if you say so. "Charm +5" "Congratulations, you have completed the quest: Subjugate the Vile Beast" "You have gained 100 Gold" "You have gained Unknown Item" "You have become the hero of the town of Levia, the town''s people will welcome you anytime with warm smile and open arms." "Because you tried your best to refuse the reward money, whisper of your compassion and humility will spread." "Max Intimacy with Town of Levia" "Fame +500" "You have leveled up!" "You have leveled up!" "You have leveled up!" Chaos was surprised about the notification. He totaly forgot that it was a quest and refused the reward from the bottom of his heart to help the people of a town that was having a hard time. Mayor: You will always be welcome here in this town as our hero. If you need a place to stay after your journey, please return here and we and the town will welcome you with open arms. After Chaos says goodbye to the Mayor and his wife, Chaos wonders the town a bit more. He went to the local blacksmith and purchase weights with different levels of kilogram. He ate in a cafe close to where he purchase the food from the stall earlier. All those time, he was being followed by users who was eyeing his items. Chaos did not plan to stay in the town long, as he was intent on getting stronger, following up towns is a no go. After he went to a potions store to buy potions, mana and antidote, he finally went back to the gate to start his journey. As soon as he went a bit away from the gate, the people that was following him showed themselves and blocked his way. Blonde User: Hey brother, want to party with us, we are going to hunt in a nearby cave and we are missing a party member. Want to join us? Chaos: Oh? Sure, lead the way. Blonde User: Wait, you need to be in a party with us first. Chaos: Is that so.. let see.. Chaos opened his menu, Crest who have read most of the manual instructions for the game told him about an option in the menu for higher level users partying with lower leveled users. He can set a different name and the level that others can view him with if his levels are triple the amount of their levels. Chaos had used this feature after learning that the levels of this people was 8-12, he set up his level as level 10. He knows that this is the same users that were following him all those time. Chaos accepted their invites and went with them to the location of the cave they were talking about. Most of the monsters around them were goblins and some occational dark rabits and wolves. He made a deal with them that if there were cards that dropped from monsters, he wants them. Cards on this early of the game cannot be used as an attack card yet, until they go to a shop in a city to purify it for attacking purposes. They have been walking for a while when they suddenly stopped in a clearing. Chaos already notice other users that were hiding in the nearby bushes and trees. About 6 more users were hidden there. Since the game had just began, most of the users does not have a class yet and was still beginners. Two users that were walking close to his back suddenly drawn their weapon and lunge at him both at the same time. After, the other 3 followed suit including the blonde user who invited him earlier. All attack hit Chaos but the person that was most shock was the attackers. Chaos does not have a scratch in him. Two of the slash went to his back and shoulder, the other two, he catch it with his fingers on each hand and the third was a thrust to his abdomen, but did not went through because of the armor''s high defense as added to his own defense as well. Chaos: Well well well.. I was wondering when you were going to attack eh. I was getting bored you know? The gangsters back home would have attacked me in town but you.. so soft. Blonde user: Wh-what did you say you bastard. You''re level 10, how were you not hurt? Is it an item? Chaos: Nah.. your all just weak. So those guys in the bushes there and the trees over there, when are you going to come out? ???: Wh-what? How did you know? Chaos: Gee your reeking of your thirst to kill, it''s easy for my detection skill to notice you. Red head girl user: Skill? You.. what are you..? Before the girl had finished talking, Chaos had disappered from their sight and in an instant, all the other 5 users who came out from hiding fell one by one. Chaos noticed that this users have already killed other users, making their name shows in red and has a red marker on top of their heads. Blonde user: What the hell''s happening? Red head girl user: Da-damn! 5 of our guys have already been killed!? Ho-how is this possible? Isn''t he just a level 10 user? Blonde user: He is! When he entered our party, he is level 10! Red head girl user: But it''s impossible with this.. unless..? Chaos: Right, you notice eh. Red head girl user: Your higher leveled than us? But the rules for that option is if your triple leveled... Chaos: Yeah so? Red head girl user: Impossible! A level 12 user who were in your party was fooled? Then that means your pass level 35? Blonde user: He''s what? But the game just started! He.. Chaos: No need to ponder on what''s what right now. All you need to know is that you''ll all die. I heard from town that many users died complaining about some PK''s killing people and taking their items. How low are you huh? Blonde user: Hiiii! His level is too high.. yo-you! if you kill us, you''ll be a PK too! Chaos: Riight.. that''s why I waited for all of you to move, so I can kill you in self defense. Didn''t you notice? Your name is in orange now, that means you assaulted a user and if you were to be attacked now, there is no penalty.. yeah? Blonde user: Shet! Run!!! Before the other user''s were able to run, they heard a howl and the next instant none of them can move. Red head girl user: What''s going on, I''m paralyzed? Wait what''s that....!!! A large red wolf came out of the trees. Chaos had summoned Red earlier to stalk, in case there are others that were hiding out of his range. As the large wolf came closer to the 6 PK''s, their terror went up a notch. Blonde user: Hiiiiiii!! It''s a boss monster! It''s too big, Tasha! W-what are we going to do? Red head girl called Tasha: Shut up! I don''t know! It''s not possible that this is a boss. The unique monster for a wolf in this area is an alpha grey wolf but this ones way larger and it''s red. Chaos: Your an intelligent one aren''t you. I wonder why you have used that in something like PK''ing ah? Are you taking pleasure of killing beginners who just want to have some fun within this game? Well if that''s the case.... All you need to do is DIE. Blonde user: WAIT! We give up, we won''t do this again! Tasha: You know, I will remember you and will kill you someday. I swear! Chaos: Hahah! Give it your best shot. By the time you came back to the game, it is 18 days of this game because of the penalty of killing a user. By then, I will be much much more stronger than now.. you understand? Afterwards, Chaos ordered the wolf to kill each of the PK''s one by one. He saved the blonde user and the red head girl last. Tasha: You- you can order the wolf?? That''s a level 25 boss wolf. How are you.. As the girl pondered about the wolf, the blonde guy was getting eaten by the wolf at the same time. She heard the scream of her companions and next, the wolf was in front of her. As she was readying herself to get eaten, the wolf stop and look at it''s master. Chaos walk in front of her and smiled. The next instant, he delivered a punch in her gut which sent the girl flying and hitting a tree. Her paralization came off as she hit the tree and slid downwards. Tasha: Gah! Cough! cough! (wheeze)... Damn! That got me! And my health, it''s in critical!?? How strong is he? That''s just a single punch! You! If you''re high leveled, that means you have a class! Are you a monk? Chaos: (grin) No.. guess again. Do you see me wearing a weapon like a gauntlet? Do you see this? Tasha: A sword? That''s a beginner sword! You.. Chaos: Right... let me give you a hint.. I''m a magician base class. Tasha: That''s not possible, a magician can''t damage me like this with a single punch. You''re lying! Chaos: If that is what you think.. now.. time to finish this. Tasha: W-wait! I... guh! Chaos delivered another blow to the girls gut which shaved of her remaining health and disappearing in tiny particles. As the girl disappeared, Chaos got a notification once more. "You gained a skill: Ki Strike" Chaos was delighted, he''d been wondering when he will get this skill as all his punch up till now, he deliver with the intent of disrupting the ki of his enemies body. It was the first skill Master Hao taught him. AN: -Beginners are able to use any type of beginner weapon they find that they can use. Those without class restriction. So if they find a staff, gauntlet, sword, shield and spear for beginners, they can use them. Chapter 11 : The Seiryuus Rise Chapter 11 : The Seiryuu''s Rise Master Kenshin''s POV In Southern New York, the masters are gathered in the main training hall of their dojo, discussing the even that will take place on the next days and months. Master Kenshin: So it''s decided who will go first? Master Tang: Yes yes, no need to repeat it again, we all understand. And besides, it''s not that one or two of us won''t have the chance.. Master Asuna: He''s right Kenshin. You are so eager to get in for an adventure. I''m not used to it yet. Master Hao: Bwahahah, it''s still the same old Kenshin eh. Once he found something interesting, he turns to a kid. Master Kenshin: Che.. don''t compare me to you that is always acting like a kid. It''s just that this is my chance, so don''t be a mood killer. Master Hao: I know, no need to be agitated. I also want to go in already. All this talk about the kids having fun adventuring, it also gets my blood boil. I wonder if I''ll find something within this game of theirs that will let me focus my all. Shin: Count on it master, I''m really not kidding you when I said that all 4 of you will be no match to Orochi. I know you are all strong, but within the game, where you start as beginners, you won''t be able to use all your known skills until your body can cope with it. Please remember.. within the game, you are reborn. Master Kenshin: We hear you clearly Shin. We will take that to heart. Master Asuna: Hopefully, we can get a good body that will suit us better. Master Tang: The kids had gained their body and they are contented with it, even though they let fate choose for them. Master Kenshin: Then let''s do the same. And we''ll start apart from each other and meet up as well when we are strong. Master Asuna: Fine, have fun. I will rest for a bit and train. I''ll make sure nothing disturbs your fun. Master Tang: As for me, I will head to the young master we are now serving. I''m second shift so don''t worry about the job. Master Hao: Great! Good luck to all of us. This could be fun! Master Kenshin: .... Yes .. fun.. (grin) All the master had separated and go to where they need to. The two masters that will first go in to the game headed for their respective rooms. Their student had prepeared their unit and had already instructed them of what to do. Kenshin had dived in to the world, expecting alot of the game. As the setup started, he goes to the same process as the rest of the children. "Welcome to Conqueror Online!" "Please choose a starting town" Kenshin: Anywhere is fine. "Please choose your race" Kenshin: Pick one for me. "Choose your name" Kenshin: Severing Seiryuu "Would you like to modify your appearance?" Kenshin: Make me young again, when I was in my prime. About the age of 21 will be good. "Would you like to familiarize yourself with movements and basic menu?" Kenshin: Yes, thank you. Kenshin looked at his reflection and could not believe his eyes. He''s looking at what he look like when he was young. Long black hair, sharp eyes and a beautiful face. He have a majestic horn on top of it''s head. It''s not a demon''s horn but different. Also, his physical body seems light and swift like a wind. Actually, gust of wind comes out of his body when he moves. Upon checking his status, he learned that he''s part dragon part elemental. He have no idea what this body can do but he''s satisfied. After familiarizing movements, amazed that he was able to move like he want to, although a bit rough than the usual, the young vigor that he had almost forgotten is what he''s feeling now. He exited the tutorial and continue the setup. "Again, welcome to Conqueror Online. Goodluck adventurer and may you conquer everything in your path.." Kenshin closed his eyes to the bright light, and opening them, he now stands in the middle of the central of the town of Sebas, within Gelrion Empire. As soon as Seiryuu familiarize his surrounding, he sprinted directly to where the town gate should be (he looked at the town map available in the menu and search for the town gate) and straight away, move farther away from the gate. Other players were surprised at the new user who were sprinting non-stop outside and further than anyone until he disappeared within the forest he went into. Kenshin had stopped until his stamina is almost depleted, having small amount remaining. He started meditating, still vigilant of his surrounding. He can feel life within the forest and some that he can feel blood lust were coming from. After resting for a bit, two creatures finally showed up in front of him. Grey wolves, stalk and pace in front of him, seperating into two, in order to attack him in two directions. Kenshin had equipped the sword from his inventory. At first, when he tried it in tutorial, it was a crude sword but was enough. He waited for the wolves to move, gauging this two wolves movement and checking if he can react properly. The two wolves attacked at the same time, but as expected, even though slower that he could do in real life, he was able to dodge and at the same time, deliver a slash to the neck of both wolves, delivering critial hits. Even though, he thought that the wolves should have died, the two wolf stand up bleeding but alive and fury in both eyes, attacked him again. This time, Kenshin counter again after dodging and did not stop slashing until the two wolves were dead. Kenshin had gained 4 levels from killing the two wolves. Kenshin had distributed the points and continued on. All monsters he met, he fought and each time he leveled, he became faster and stronger. He also learned skills when doing the same sharp movements Shin was using when he was battling monsters. He gained "Light step", "Meditation", "Sword Mastery", "Un-armed Combat" and "Deadly Strike*". He also was not able to dodge everything, even with his skills when battling multiple monsters higher leveled than him at the same time. He went to critical state, but was able to recover and continue battling monster after monster. Going straight through the forest, he went far enough to almost reach the border of his starting country. At this point, he encountered an opponent that almost killed him, leaving his body in tatters. Kenshin encountered a Demonic Elves possess by an evil aura or spirit. One is adept in using magic, while the other is an expert with bows. The battle last long and when he was almost cornered, he was able to get into the gap of one of the elves defense and finish it by hacking it''s life quickly while pushing the elf further away from it''s partner. After finishing the elf that uses magic, he was able to defeat the elf that uses bow a bit easier since only one attack came to him. He was almost defeated when the elf shows uncanny movement and fought to the end. Kenshin, after defeating the two elves was now at level 41 as he fought non-stop before meeting the two. After defeating and winning his hardest battle yet, the spirit of the two defeated elves rose from it''s bodies and came in front of him. Kenshin was on guard immediately but notice the peaceful look on both of the elves faces. This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Elves: Thank you adventurer from freeing us from this curse. Although our bodies are gone, we prefer this than being a slave of a curse. Kenshin: It was nothing, I was passing by in training when I happen unto you. Elves: Before we go, we want to give you a gift. It will be beneficial to you as we can feel the wnd elements from you. Kenshin: Ah... I would be honored to accept any gift and I will treasure it for as long as I live. Elves: Thank you for your kind words. In truth, we are an outcast from our conclave. For I am a moon elf and my husband, a dark elf, it is forbidden for us to be together, so we run away. We were happy but became vulnerable and was taken over by evil spirits to the north of here. Elves: Our gift to you is a blessing. This blessing will allow you to open a treasure within our home in the north of here. But beware, the source of our curse is there as well, trying to break through and get our treasure as well. Will you still continue, knowing that you will face an evil that can destroy you? Kenshin: Is this evil you mentioned, strong? Elves: Very, but we can feel from within you that you can slay this evil and triumph. Kenshin: Then yes, I will continue. I seek the strong to become stronger as well. I seek power so I can face a foe. Elves: Then we will guide you, and help you to win, we want you to win, we want you to gain our treasure and hopefully, protect and continue severing this darkness. "Quest Start!" Quest: Vanquish an Ancient Evil Type: Class specific quest Info: You were task by the two spirit elves to vanquish and destroy an evil that still lurks in their home. Goal: Defeat the evil creature that is trying to steal the treasure of the spirit elves. Success: Creature''s defeat Fail: Your defeat Level: C Reward: Legendary Class Requirement: Defeated the corrupted elves in battle. After reading the quest notification, Kenshin followed the two elf spirit further north. Upon arriving on the location the two pointed at, the place is far different than the forest they were in earlier. Everything is covered in darkness. Miasma is seeping through the land and in the middle, in front of a small cabin is a dark creature that is trying to bash it''s way through the front of the cabin. Once it notice the presence of the spirits and Kenshin, it turned around and glare at them. Kenshin was finally able to learn what the creature is. It''s name is "Corrupted Demon of Envy", and it''s level is 70! 30 levels higher than him. As he approach the beast, the spirit called out to him. Elves: Traveller! You can call to us once to assist you in this battle. Only once for our spirit will weaken after assisting you and will not be able to do it again. We can hold the evil at bay for you for a whole minute but that''s it. Kenshin: No worries, I will ask for your assistance at the exact right time. Now watch me as I slay this beast. The battle between the beast and Kenshin had started. The beast is faster than it''s size shows and almost run down Kenshin. Using all his skills and might, he was able to shave off the beast''s life bit by bit. As it''s nearing critial, it changes it''s movement and gradually recover, absorbing the miasma around them. Kenshin rushed the beast while recovering shaving it''s life again but it''s recovery is faster than what Kenshin can do damage. It''s life is at 15% but now coming back to 20%. At this point, if it recovers to even half of it''s life, Kenshin will definitely loose. Kenshin chose to call the assistance of the two elves and as he called upon them, the two had dived straight through it''s heart and this made the beast stops it''s recovery. Kenshin immediately moved and unleashed his fury with all his might, before the final second where the beast will be released from the elves hold, Kenshin jump directly to the head of the beast and thrust his sword all the way down it''s eye right into it''s brain, if it has one. A critical hit was delivered and Kenshin pulled out the other sword he obtained earlier and thrust it all in the same location as the first. Finally, the beast howled one last time and slowly dissolves, leaving two weakend spirit elves in it''s place. Elves: You did it traveller! Kenshin: No, we did it. Without your help, I would have not won. Thank you. Elves: Thank you, we will be able to pass on peacefully, knowing that this evil has been vanquished from our home. Elves: Our blessing is still within you, we would like you to go and obtain the treasure that we promised. Kenshin: Before I go, I am curious. You who you said are outcast. You are quite skilled and obtain something that an evil creature will want. Elves: I guess you have found us out. Please do not worry. We are not evil. What we told you is the truth that we left so we can be together and we both did not regret it. But to tell you the truth, our position within our own conclave is a bit special as to why we have an item sought by evil. Kenshin: Special you say? Elves: Yes, we are shamans from our conclave. We protect the forest and the spirits that inhabits it. The item we possess is an orb that contains a noble soul that we found when we were looking for a home. It is sentient, and it allowed us to be it''s caretaker until it found a suitable host. We believe that you are what we are waiting for, noble traveller. Kenshin: I am honored but I''m not that noble myself. I... Elves: Believe on us as we felt within our soul what is within you. Now, please claim your gift and show this world once again, a light that will protect them. Kenshin approached the cabin, it is half destroyed and a shining box lay on the floor. The box is surrounded by a thin golden bubble that the dark creature was trying to penetrate in earlier. As Kenshin closed on it and tried to extend his arm to open the box, it opened by itself and envelops him with a bright golden light. Suddenly, a notification appeared in front of him. "You have been given the chance to obtain one of the ancient class from the dark era. Would you like to accept?" As Kenshin had promised earlier that he will accept the gift, even without knowing what it is, he whole heartedly opened his arms and accepted the gift. "Congratulations! You have gained one of the legendary class from the dark era" "Class Change: Holy Divider" "Due to changing class, you have obtained stat boost from the class." "Strength +80, Vitality +60, Agility +80, Dexterity +30, Intelligence +20, Wisdom +20, Luck +10" "Light and Dark Resistance 50%" "All status resistance + 5%" "You have gained a class specific skill: Divine Dividing" "You have gained a class specific skill: Blade of light" "You have gained a class specific skill: Bright Vorpal Slash" The path of strength, the way to power. Kenshins road is of swords and light. His true journey begins from here.. Chapter 12 : A Warriors Trail Chapter 12 : A Warrior''s Trail After Chaos had gotten rid of the player killers, he left the clearing with a light mood. From killing those PK''s, some of them had dropped items, and even if the drops where low leveled, Chaos was still happy with the drops. Leather Gauntlet (Gauntlet) Type: Common -The most basic of the gauntlet weapon. Offers protection to the knuckles but does not have high attack power. Attack: 4-8 Defense: 5 Durability: 90/100 Effect: Fast attack speed Requirements: Level 10 Wooden Bow (Bow) Type: Common -Common bow that anyone can use. Although, it can be use by anyone, to hit the target, one must have enough precision for a successful hit. Attack: 5-10 Durability: 98/100 Effect: None Requirements: Level 10 Dex 20 Arrows: Regular Arrow x 50 Short Spear (Spear) Type: Common -Spear for militia men that guards villages from monsters. Sturdy but not long reach. Attack: 6-10 Durability: 70/100 Effects: None Requirements: Level 10 Buckler (Shield) Type: Common -Common shield used by squires. Does not cover much but sturdy made for defense. Defense: 8 Durability: 45/100 Requirements: Level 10 Str 30 Thieve''s Gloves (Gloves) Type: Uncommon -Enchanted gloves of was blessed by fairies. It allows onwer to steal from anyone. Try it at your own risk. Durability: 99/175 Effect: Allows the use of skill, Steal. The higher the agility and dexterity, the higher the probability of stealing items from opponents. Requirements: Level 15 Agi 50 Dex 40 The girl called Tasha had dropped a soul card instead. It was a unique soul card called Slime King: Unique. This must have come from one of their victims who may have worked hard to find this monster. Chaos does not intend to return it though as it was going to be suspicious if anyone found him holding this missing item. Chaos had equipped the gloves and bow. As of now, he has two weapon that he can switch back and forth. He was glad as he was finally will be able to train his Switch Weapon skill. So far, he had met all the monsters around the beginner town but have not encountered their unique counterpart. Chaos unsummoned Red, then he resummoned Alucard to check the surrounding area once again for unique monsters. He specified a unique rabbit, whipper and a goblin. His summon becomes more intelligent as their level becomes higher. For now, his collector''s spirit does not want to leave until he tried to search for unique monsters in the area. Good thing he have a flying summon that greatly help with searching. Soon, the bat found a whipper, but it''s color is violet. When Chaos tried confronting it, it was called Venom Whipper. Even though it''s low leveled, he had a hard time as all it''s vine''s are coated with poison. He was able to defeat it but his health was down 50%. It''s a good thing he bought antidote before leaving the town. They stayed in the forest for 2 more hours until they found a Hob Goblin and Fleet Footed Hare. Satisfied for the meantime, before leaving, Chaos went in to his dimentional space and sorted out the rest of the items. While doing so, he remember about the books he got so he checked one that interest him earlier. "The Diary of a Dark Wanderer". He browse through the diary and learned that it was telling the story of the owner''s journey and one place he went into is the town of Levia. He notice that the settings on the diary when told by the wanderer is dark and many encounters of monsters. He quickly concluded that it was in the past, maybe further back to the one they called "Dark Era". As he kept reading, Chaos notice that the path the wanderer ventured starting from Levia, is the same as his direction. He became more interested as when the town of Levia was mentioned, it was almost on the last pages of the diary. He got carried away and was able to finish the diary as he was fascinated by the journey. After closing the diary, a notification appeared in front of him. "Quest Start!" Quest: The Wanderer''s Path Type: Unknown Quest Info: Upon reading the mysterious diary of a wanderer, you notice that you are on the same path as the authors book take. If you follow the same path, you may discover something important. Goal: Follow the path as was mentioned in the diary, and see where it take you. Success: Able to reach the end of the path that was also mentioned in the diary. Able to learn the truth behind the wanderer. Fail: Dying before reaching the destination denoted in the diary. Level: A+ Reward: ???? Requirement: Obtaining the wanderer''s diary and reading through to the end Chaos was surprised as reading the diary lead to activating a quest. He quickly gathered himself and sorted the items quickly. He came out of the dimensional space and started following what he remembered was mentioned in the diary. As Chaos followed through memory, he encountered new monsters. There was not that many but the levels of the monster encounter suddenly became higher. He started encountering Grizzly Bear(lv20), Trolls(lv18), and Gnolls(20). Most of the bears were at the base of the mountain and quite few but when he started ascending the mountain, small troll settlement were scattered at the entrance. He had to battle through many numbers of trolls and as he go higher, gnolls dominated the middle part when ascending the mountain and their number is higher than trolls. Also, while fighting, Chaos had worn the weights he purchase from the blacksmith back in town. As a training and handicap, since he''s higher leveled. Climbing the mountain with it, greatly increase his stats. Weights (Accessories) Type: Common -Training weights. Martial artist wears this heavy accessories to increase their power exponentially. Effect: While equip, will sometimes raise strength, agility and dexterity. Movement -50%, Attack Speed -50%. Requirements: Level 20 Str 50 3 in game days had pass since he left the clearing and headed to the mountain, following the trail of the wanderer. As he rest within his dimensional space, Chaos checked his status screen for progress. It''s been awhile when he was able to check on it and he haven''t distributed stat points on it as well, not needing to as he did not encounter higher leveled monster like on the Viscious mountain. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. STATUS SCREEN Name: Chaos Gender: Male Race: Halfling (Dimension-Dragon) Class: Dark Summoner Sub Class: None Alignment: Neutral Title: Beast Slayer, Dungeon Sweeper Fame: 870 Level: 56 Points: 105/275 Health: 1970 Mana: 1900 Stamina: 1205 Strength: 140 Vitality: 95 Agility: 115 (+25) [140/2 = 70] Dexterity: 66 (+20) Intelligence: 132 Wisdom: 124 Endurance: 31 Resilience: 21 Flexibility: 9 Charm: 5(20) Luck: 38 (15) Attack: 70 - 140 (+10) Defense: 95 (+140) Magic Resistance: Fire: 20% Ice: 20% Water: 10% Earth: 10% Wind: 10% Lightning: 10% Light: 10% Dark: 10% Abnormal Status Resistance: Poison: 60% Paralysis: 10% Bleed: 76% Cripple: 10% Burn: 10% Curse: 10% Petrify: 10% Freeze: 10% Death: 10% Charm: 10% Disease: 10% Silence: 10% Looking at his status, he thought he did not gain much, he should have gained more but since he''s not going to the higher leveled places yet (and for him to not know that the highest leveled player is level 20, a week in game had pass). He also checked that map of the mountain and learned that he was in Helga Mountain Range, and when going deeper was an unknown territory where even the residence of Sylvania had not dared ventured. He also learned "Bow Mastery" and "Light Step" when he started using switch weapon, he used bow to attack long distance enemies in tandem with the sword and with multiple enemies, using advance dodging technique. After making sure that all his items where in his dimension space, he went out to continue ascending to follow the quest. When he went in to take a rest within his pocket dimension, Chaos was almost at the part where clouds obstruct the views below. Coming out to the open to continue his ascent, as he get''s near the clouds, with his "enemy detection" skill, he sense that there is a large creature falling down on his location. With quick thinking and response, he quickly jump sideways and unleased two slashes to the space he was in, and when he looked back, he saw a large monster with a two gashes at it''s right wing. It was a Level 50 Wyvern! He quickly summoned Alucard and Red at the same time, he let Alucard used it''s "Sonic Wave" Skill and at the same time, Red''s "Howl" skill. The first skill confused the wyvern, then the second paralyzed it. It was very effective as the wyvern was not ready for the paralization skill, it was affected immediately. The wyvern has a high Health but Chaos has a new weapon equipped, the dual sword "Carnage & Slaughter". It''s damage is about 200-350, even though his movement and attack speed is cut in half, he was still able to move efficiently and quickly. With the help of his two servants, they were able to feel the wyvern without too much damage. Now that he was aware of enemy attack within the clouds, he summoned another servant, the Bloody Hare he named Edge. He kept Edge close to him since it has the lowest level but he was sure that it will not die on him. They continued on as Chaos alertness is at maximum. They encountered several Wyvern on the way but this monster does not come in packs. Only one at a time it attacks. It''s possible because of their territorial instinct that they don''t attack until Chaos steps on their territory range. Having this, they were able to advance quickly. Making good time, they have already dealth with 6 more wyverns, Chaos ready himself to face the 8th, but the ones that''s coming closer were a lot larger than the others. As the cloud was cut apart from the decent of the next monster, a loud cry was heard. This immediately instill fear to Chaos group. Because of this, he was only able to save Alucard and Edge from damage but Red received critial, making it''s health plummet down to half. However, this cause the fear on the wolf to subside and immediately unleashed a howl at it''s surrounding and charge the large wyvern head on. Chaos quickly leapt on Red''s back and charge at the monster together. It is a unique monster as Chaos thought and it''s a Level 75 Obsidian Dragoon Wyvern. Chaos: Finally! A high level monster. Your mine!! Chaos and Red had already formed a combo earlier. Since Red was one of the first servant Chaos had summoned, he was used to it''s movement as Red as well because of it''s intelligence. Both had delivered a critical hit and Chaos did not stop the attack. Depending on his skill, he hacked away on the monster''s wing to cripple it to prevent flying. Red did the same with the other wing, at the same time, aborbing blood from the monster. The wyvern was very strong and Chaos struggled to defeat it. The other two servant''s had overcome their fear and joined that assault. After awhile, they were able to finally fell it, with Chaos and Red in critial condition and Alucard and Edge with it''s life at below 50%. Chaos: Gaha hah.. hah.. (panting) That was amazing you guys, good job. Red! Start Devouring the wyvern to recover yourself and Alucard, immense yourself with it''s blood while it''s still warm, as an attack from other wyverns may follow. Let''s all get ready. (grin) Chaos restored Edge''s health through potions and then they prepared and advance once more while ascending. Chaos did not encounter any more wyverns as they are close to penetrating the clouds when they fought the black wyvern. Finally, Chaos pass through the clouds and was again surprised at the scenery in front of him. It was just like when he did the same on Vicious Mountain, this time, he learned that it was not just a mountain but a barrier to another world. The unexplored part of this continent was pass this mountain. What Chaos ascended through was not actually a mountain but a ravine. It''s to get to a plateu to a higher ground. In front of Chaos was now a vast jungle and further away was a temple. This must be where the wanderer had ended base on the last passage on the diary. Chaos, excited on his adventure forge through to try to reach the temple the wanderer may have gone through and may have ended within or just a check point to another location the wanderer may have gone to. Chaos doesn''t care and moved forward excitedly with expectation of new encounter. Chapter 13 : A Warriors Trail (2nd Part) Chapter 13 : A Warrior''s Trail (2nd Part) "Congratulations! You are the first adventurer to discover the Lost Jungle, El Arthas. Said to have been lost since the dark era." "You have gained the title, The Wanderer." "Fame +500 and +10 Luck for being the first to discover a lost land from the dark era." "Experience and item drop chance is doubled for 7 days, first monster will drop the best loot." Chaos: Nice! Another one of those grinding spree in front of me. This will speed up the process of getting stronger. I hope the monsters here are not too high leveled but not below my level as well.. hmmm, better start. Chaos had step through the vast jungle and as soon as he did, his enemy detection skill had detected several monsters in the area. Chaos unsummoned all his servants and stealthily went to one of the monsters he notice is alone in the vast area. Other monsters congregated numbering from 2-6 on one area, but this one monster on the map is alone and seems to be in the middle of a clearing. When Chaos arrived in the area, a lone monster is sitting in the middle of a clearing. Hundreds of bones of other monsters are scattered in the surrounding area from the middle where the monster is. Chaos thought, this monster must be the top of the food chain in this area. Edging a little more into the clearing, he noticed that the monster is a large bird. It''s as large as the black wyvern he fought earlier and may be larger. Edging a little more closer and using all he learned about stealth from Master Asuna, he finally learned what the large bird is. It''s a boss monster, and it''s name is King Condor, a level 100 monster. Chaos pondered wether to try fighting this monster but erase the idea of thinking and go with his instinct, to fight. He formulated a strategy that will help even a little in taking down the boss monster. After few more minutes, Chaos had finish and proceeded with the plan. Chaos summoned his servant''s one by one, then recover with potions and started the plan to defeat the condor. Chaos had his servant, the lightning ram he named Virgil, charge straight to the condor. When the large condor notice Virgil''s charging him, the condor releases a killing intent started attacking Virgil. Chaos unsummoned his servant Virgil which made the condor confused as the enemy in front of him disappeared. Next, without notice, he had Alucard activate "Sonic Wave" which increases the confusion of the condor. Adding to this, now that it has less to little protection or readines, Red release a howl which stopped the bird completely and followed suit with an all out attack on both it''s wings. Chaos, earlier had check and deduce that it''s still a bird species. Birds on it''s wings has some part that is weaker than the rest. He want''s to cripple even just one wing to prevent it from taking to the skies where it can take advantage and slaughter them. Chaos and Red, along with Edge and another servant named Azure, the slime attack at one single point on it''s wings at the same time. Chaos summoned his slime servant on this occasion for it''s acidic property, making it''s defense go down more. Chaos''s plan was effective, as the onslaught they released had severely damaged the condor''s wing, crippling it. They tried to do the same on the other wing but the condor recovered it''s sense and defended preventing the same fate to happen on it''s other wing. The second part of their showdown against the condor had commence. Without it''s capability to fly, they were able to damage the condor to the extreme. After several confrontation, they were able to cripple both wings and this made the battle a bit easier. Before the end of the fight, Chaos had unsummoned both Red and Azure to prevent them dying. Once Chaos had delivered the final blow, he re-summoned all his unsummoned monsters to have them gain strength. Finally, they were able to beat the King Condor and Chaos was able to maximize the experience with all his summons and gained strength. Chaos opened a door to his dimension after having his servant feed on the defeated king condor, and rest as most of them are still in critical condition. Chaos meditated to recover, then checked his inventory for any new weapon he acquired. There were two items that catches his eye. One is a pendant that is called "Temple Key Half". Chaos thought that if it''s half, he has to find the other half to enter the temple he saw earlier from the distance. The second item is a japanese sword he recognize at first look. He was glad that he finally found the weapon the he''s most proficient to but was nervous as he does not want to get disappointed if he could not use it. When he opened the item information, he breath a sigh of relief. Murasame (Sword) Type: Unique -Forge by an unknown demon blacksmith. Said to be made from the bone of a legendary sky monster that had ruled the skies during the dark era. -Emits a red aura when out of it''s sheath especially when being used. May have a life of it''s own and becomes stronger the more blood of the enemies it consumes. Attack: 90-150 Durability: 449/500 Effect: -Ignores 5% of enemies defense. -Effects of "Vorpal" when cutting enemies. Can severe parts of opponent''s body. Cripple effect +50% -Fear effect +50% Growth: Level 01 (0%) Requirements: Any Class Level 60 Str 100 Dex 70 Chaos immediately equipped the weapon. Since it''s a living weapon that grows, he wanted to use it more to level it up. Getting everything settled, Chaos went out from his dimension with his servants and looked at the map. He was looking for another monster that was alone just like the condor. This time, he found one on the other side of the forest. He quickly left to challenge the monster and get the other half of the key. Along the way, Chaos encountered high level monsters such as regular condors at level 70, crystal ligers level 60 and a giant snake called constrictor at level 60 as well. At the third quarter of the way to the monster''s location, Chaos started encountering dragons but their names are drakes at level 70. There were many so his progress became much slower than before. The first time he fought a drake, it was overwhelming at first as the drake attacks aggressively. It has high attack power and defense and it also uses fire breath which gave him the more trouble. This drakes flies as well but not for a long period as their body were heavy to carry in the air. As Chaos progresses, he was able to learn it''s weak spot, traits and movements, making his fight a bit more easier. When he reach the part of the jungle where it''s meeting a clearing, this time, it was different. There were many rockes jutted out from the ground, and in the middle of the open field, there was a higher point where his target rested. It was a Crimson Drake Lord, also at level 100. Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit. Just like the condor, Chaos formed a plan, with the help of his servant''s he was able to create a good counter measure against the drake also using the rocks to their advantage. When the fight started, as soon as the drake notice them, it immediately showered them with it''s fire breath. However, with the rocks jutting out of the ground, Chaos and it''s servant were able to hide, as well as confuse the drake on where each one is located. This is where they started their hit and run tactics. Since they have a fairly good idea at where it''s weakness are from the normal drakes they fought earlier, they took advantage of it as well. Even though the drake were fairly strong, it was not able to cope with multiple attackers on all side, gunning at the weakest parts of it''s body. It was also unable to take flight as it''s wings were tattered early on when the fight began. It was the first part of the drake Chaos and his servants had disabled. Chaos was able to finally defeat the Lord Drake without much damage after two hours. It did had a fairly large health. Chaos, happy with the results of the fight, went back into the his dimension and recuperated and wish to sort out his items before going to the temple. Inside, Chaos took out the two half pendant and when he do, the two half shines for a minute then when it faded, it was whole, called Forgotten Temple Key. Chaos had collected too many items, and since he does not sell them, the number of items he kept on his dimension has increased. He now have 3 rooms within his dimension. He had unlocked the option for light settings and floor/wall/ceiling editing. He was able to customize the 3 rooms. One room where he kept the extra large timeless food compartment, he made all the floors and walls tiled as he plan to make the room to serve as a kitchen. The other room, mainly for storage purposes made everything from the floors and wall tiled as well. Also, if he had a chance to go back to a village or town, he will request to buy shelves and more boxes, for now, the 4 boxes he obtained from the wolve''s cave will have to do. The rest of the items he sorted are on the floor. Finally, the third room, where he plans to make as a living room, he made the walls and floors made out of wood. He adjusted the temperature as 25 degree celcius and the lighting not too bright but not too dimmed. Only things needed on it was tools to relax on and he can spend much comfortable time within his dimension. He made the rooms as the living room is in the middle and would be connected on all four sides with the other room as they become available. He emptied his inventory once more and left the accesories he may need in emergency as well as extra potions, mana and food. As for the new soul cards, he binded them to himself as the two bosses he fought were fairly strong, he wanted to level them up soon as well. Chaos did not came out of his dimension immediately. He stayed inside longer and read all the books he had gotten earlier. 3 of the books were skill books. He was glad as he was not planning on returning to a town to get supplies. He learned "Equipment Repair", "Grilling", "Chakra" as well as gained the title "Bookworm". This increase his reading capability so he was thankful with the title. It was all useful books, most likely, the wanderer was also the owner. He also read the others the other elemental books and doing so increase his elemental resistance for each book he read by 10%. In total, Chaos stayed within his dimension for 6 hours straight, just reading. It was something like an addiction he got from Crest but he enjoyed reading much as well. Once done, Chaos looked one last time at the rooms he created within his dimension, he recovered his mana and satiety and went out of his dimension. Looking at the door and trusting his instinct, he did not went inside the temple but goes back to the jungle to hunt and forage. He wanted to secure and see if he can find the unique version of the monsters in the surrounding. He spent another 4 hours hunting in the vicinity of the temple. He fought quite a number of all the monster species on the area, eventually finding the two unique monsters he was searching for. Chaos did not found any other new monster but he gained two new unique servants to summon. After getting all the things he need from the jungle and monsters around it, Chaos headed back to the temple to finally proceed with the quest. A he was nearing the temple, his instinct kicked in and Chaos looked at his map and using his enemy detection skill to the fullest, Chaos noticed an enemy coming from the ravine and moving fast heading for his direction. Before the creatre get''s closer, Chaos disperses his servants around for surprise attack. After few more minutes, the creature appeared in front of Chaos. ????: Found you at last! Now DIE! Chapter 14 : The Wanderer Chapter 14 : The Wanderer Waiting in front of the temple, Chaos waited for the creature to appear before him. After few more minutes, the creature walked out of the thick jungle. ????: Found you at last! Now DIE! Chaos was surprised as the creature that appeared spoke to him then suddenly attacked. Still being prepared, Chaos dodge the attacks one by one. While dodging, he was observing the creature who was relentlessly attacking him. It is a humanoid creature with red skin and a set of horn in it''s head. Then Chaos suddenly remembered the ridiculous quest the popped up when he was getting a class profession earlier. He now thought that this was the first should be of the demons from the underworld that will pursue and slay him. The demon in front of him is level 100. It''s name is "Demon Elite: Eligos". If he was a normal player, he would''ve died because of this higher level demon. When last he heard, the highest level a player have at the moment is 20, it should now be 25 at least but if this level faces a level 100 demon elite, a player will surely die. But unfortunately, Chaos is not a normal player. He was close to the demon''s level and was able to fight on par with the demon. Chaos, now had an idea of the demon''s attack pattern, started to fight back. Chaos: Are there more of you coming? Demon Eligos: There is no need to know human. I''m more than enough to slay you, thief. Chaos: Thief? The hell... ah.. it''s about that blood river or something huh. You know it''s out of my hands when the crystal absorbs it right? Demon Eligos: Yet you consumed the crystal that has absorbed our master''s property. We can feel it''s presence on you, so for that, you will die. Chaos: Really.. you keep saying die this and die that but you have not accomplish it till now, why don''t you die instead? Demon Eligos: Eh? As the demon was surprised of what Chaos mentioned, suddenly, appearing behind the demon, a large wolf chomp down on the demon''s body, piercing him and causing a critical attack. One of Chaos servant, Red had bitten down the demon and afterwards moved back to avoid the retaliation of the demon. While the demon, surprised looked at the direction of the wolf, Chaos also appeared behind him and draw his weapon in quick succession to deliver a slash on the demons arm, severing the arm entirely. Demon Eligos: Guaahhh!! How could you possibly....! An axe suddenly embedded on the demons back and multiple water blades rain down at the same time on the demon. This consecutive attacks cause the demon''s health to fall below half. Demon Eligos: You! How could this monster be controlled by you? Impossible! Your one of the...! Before the demon finished speaking, attack after attack came on all direction of the demon, and once it''s in critical condition, Chaos delivered the final blow right to it''s heart. Demon Eligos: Gggyaaahaaarrgg!! Hack! Cough cough! To lose to the likes of you! Don''t celebrate yet, my bretheren will come for you soon.. They will be far more stronger than I and this surprise attack won''t happen again. Chaos: Surprise attack? Your just weak for not noticing them around you. Being attacked, you did not even able to defend and fought back. Well I expected more of you so let the others come. Demon Eligos: You.. Your.. like a .. villain! You did not even... asked for information.. from me.. it should be .. like that.. cough! cough!.. To die like this is humiliating. As the demon breath it''s last, it''s body disappeared like an ash being blown by the wind. Afterwards, a notification appeared in front of him for a quest update. Quest: Demon''s Pursuit Type: Chain Class Specific Quest Info: -Demon''s Pursuit had started, you will be pursuid by demons from the underworld. Find a way to stop them or bring the battle to them. -You have defeated the first of the elite demon task to destroy you and bring the crystal back, more stroner demons will come after your head. -Number of demons defeated: 1 (Eligos) Goal: Stop the one that is giving the order to eliminate you. Success: Making a deal with the one giving the order of pursuit or eliminate them. Fail: Pursuit will not stop and each time a demon came to eliminate you, will become stronger. Level: A+ Reward: Pursuit on you will stop, ??????? Requirement: Blood & Soul Crystal absorbs over 100% The demon had dropped an equipment but to his surprise, it did not left any soul card like most monsters do. Chaos checked the two items that the demon had left behind. Soul Crystal Type: Unknown -Every demon has a crystal core where all their beings are from. Granted by their lord or master, this soul crystal, when embedded inside a demon, allows them to go stronger. It pulses like a heart, a pure beautiful red crystal. -Level 100 Soul crystal. -Any usage for this item has not been discovered yet. Soul Headband (Helmet) Type: Rare -Red headband worn for extra protection. This particular headband was made from a rare leather that came from a monster called Ahriman. Defense: 40 Durability: 234/350 Effect: Doubles the range of "Enemy Detection Skill", Petrification resistance +50% Requirements: Any Class Str 100 Int 80 Wis 80 Satisfied with the equipment, Chaos equipped it right away and stored the crystal in his inventory. Chaos also gained another skill called "Iai Strike". Done with his errands, he continue to proceed to the temple. Once at the door of the temple, Chaos could not find a key hole or a socket to insert the temple key he obtained earlier. However, after a few minutes, the pendant started shining and the stone door started moving, granting access to the temple. After stepping inside the temple, the door suddenly started closing down, not intending to grant passage to another. The torches started to light up but here and there were cracks that let''s the sunlight to pass through, lighting up the place. Further inside the temple is another huge set of doors, but this one is made out of hard black metal, that seems to be containing something within. Approaching the door, Chaos notice a person right beside the door. Moving closer, it was a skeleton of a person, then immediately, Chaos thought that it was the remain of the wanderer who he was following the trail of. Chaos was going to check on the remains of the wanderer when the skeleton suddenly lit up. After the light vanish, a man is standing right in front of him. Wanderer''s soul: Welcome adventurer. I can sense that you are holding onto my diary and no doubt following my footsteps. Chaos: I am. I wish to know what happened and why you ended up in this temple. Wanderer''s soul: My time here is limited for I used up all my powers to remain in this plane to await an adventurer, such as you, to give a warning of this temple. Chaos: A warning...? Then tell me. Wanderer''s soul: This is not actually a temple but an entrance to a dungeon. At the deepest part of this dungeon lay one of the legendary weapon left by the creator''s enforcer to battle the mad gods. Chaos: Interesting. So you came here to obtain this weapon but failed? Wanderer''s soul: I did. This dungeon is trecherous. A trial for the worthy to posses one of the legendary weapons made by the creator for the dragon enforcers of the past. I came here to obtain the weapon that will help to thwart the coming evil that will awaken on this land. Chaos: Do you mean the Mad Gods that you mentioned earlier? Wanderer''s soul: Correct.. They are in deep slumber but soon they will awaken. The signs can be seen all around us. Dragons that should have been guardians has now become mad and is wrecking havoc everywhere. Someone is hastening the process of awekening them. Adventurer, I thought I can obtain the weapon from this dungeon but I was not enough. I should have broght help with me but alas, it is too late. Chaos: Is it that hard to conquer this dungeon even for someone like you. This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience. Wanderer''s soul: It is, for this dungeon has 100 levels and each of the 10 levels has a guardian waiting to trample on anyone who dares proceed. It is a pity but you may not be able to conquer this dungeon, just like I failed, if you tried to, you may die. Chaos: Why do you say that? Wanderer''s soul: For you are alone, adventurer. Chaos: Who says I''m alone? One by one, Chaos''s servant appeared before the Wanderer''s soul. Each one emposing, showing pride at each one''s strength. Wanderer''s soul: You! You''re.. what are your profession class? Are you a beast tamer, but it is impossible to tame this many high ranking beast? Chaos: Nah.. I''m a dark summoner. Wanderer''s soul: You mean! It is one of the enforcer''s legendary class... so you have a legendary class as well. Perhaps there may be hope yet! Then I implore you! Please, try to conquer this dungeon and obtain the legendary weapon and defend this world from the mad gods. Chaos: No need to ask, I''m planning to do so anyway. I''m on a quest to become strong. I need to beat a strong monster I encountered so yeah, this fit''s my bill. (grin) Wanderer''s soul: Understood. In that case, let me offer my final assistance to you. I hope that this may help in your travels. Search my remains for you will find something that will be of valuable use to you. And please accept this gift from me. "The Wanderer has bestowed upon you his own class, will you accept?" Chaos: A class?? But I already have a class, Dark Summoner... I hope it does not get deleted, I''m warming up to this class of mine. Wanderer''s soul: No need to worry, adventurer. Your class is your own. My gift is to make you more stronger. I can see that even if your class is of the Magic lineage, you have a warrior''s soul as well. Chaos: Seriously, I won''t loose my summoner class? Awesome. Then I accept! "Congratulations! You have gained one of the hidden class from the dark era" "Due to Dark Summoner set as main class, new class will be moved to be a sub-class" "Sub Class Equipped: Blade Asura" "Due to obtaining a hidden class, you have gained stat boost from the class." "Strength +50, Vitality +50, Agility +20, Dexterity +20, Intelligence +10, Wisdom +10, Luck +10" "All magic resistance + 5%" "All status resistance + 5%" "You have gained a class specific skill: Blade Hell" "You have gained a class specific skill: Crimson AUra" "You have gained a class specific skill: Psycho Armament" Glad at the gains he sees in front of him, Chaos pulled up the advance information for the new class he gained. Blade Asura One of the hidden class found known only to those who have gained knowledge of the past event called "dark era". A warrior class that is able to cause havoc and chaos on the battlefield even when alone. Advance Information: Blade Asura Class Trait: -Blade Asura is able to equip any weapon even limited to specific class aside from owner bonded weapon. -Blade Asura is able to equip any Armor even limited to specific class aside from owner bonded weapon. -Blade Asura gets additional 50 health for every level has been gained. -For every 1 Vitality stats, it is equal to 50 HP. -Blade Asura''s Health recovery speed +25%. As Chaos gaze on the class specific traits, he was wracking his brain as to which he should choose to equip. Every single one of the traits offers serious advantage. Before Chaos was able to pick a trait, the Wanderer''s soul spoke to him again. Wanderer''s soul: I hope, this gift helps you in your journey. I want to offer more as this journey alone within this dungeon will be ardous for you but all of my belongings are either lost within this dungeon during my escape or have been destroyed due to countless battle. Chaos: I''m already thankful with the gift you gave me. It''s more than enough actually. Wanderer''s soul: Then I''m glad... Hmmm.. wait, I''m not sure if it will help but there is one item that still remains with me up until now. It''s an incomplete item, but if you are able to find it''s half, it will immensely help alleviate the hardship of your journey. Chaos: Eh? There is... Chaos went to the skeleton remains of the wanderer. Hanging in it''s neck is a necklace. When he identified it, it says "unknown item". Chaos: Wait.. isn''t this! Chaos took out the item he got from the village chief from the town of Levias. As he look at the two, they are both identical. Wanderer''s soul: You! You already found the other half?! I lost the other half during my journey. I did not think that it will surface so soon. I believe it''s fate that you will be the next owner of this item. Come, give it to me so I can make it complete. As the Wanderer''s soul took the two halved items, both item shines becoming attracted to each other. The Wanderer''s soul flickered as the two items combined into one. Chaos: What''s happening to you!? Wanderer''s soul: Do not worry about me. I''ve just use almost my remaining essence to combine this great item. I would have stayed longer but this is important. More important than what assistance I can provide by staying here. Chaos: But are you sure? Wanderer''s soul: Yes, I would have pass on anyway. My time is near, adventurer. The monsters within this dungeon are very strong and fierce. Monster outside are nothing compared to them. As you go deeper, they become stronger. Every 10 levels, you will face a guardian far stronger than the monsters that wanders it''s halls. Be careful. Chaos: Thank you for all of your assistance you''ve provided me. Rest assured that I will not fail. Wanderer''s soul: Then I''m at ease. I can feel that you will be able to get further and conquer everything on this dungeon. Before I go, I wish to know your name. Chaos: My name is Chaos. Wanderer''s soul: Chaos.. I will remember and never forget. I will be watching your progress. Good luck and may you conquer everything in your path. The Wanderer''s soul disapperead in a thousand lights flashing upwards to the heavens. As Chaos gaze at where the Wanderer disappeared to. He set his gaze straight to the black metal doors which leads deeper to the dungeon. Chaos also checked the item that he received from the Wanderer. Soul Linker (Accessory) Type: World Artifact -A very rare necklace made out of pure souls crystals, only found on the well of life. The location has been lost in time but he who obtained this item will gain power that has been restricted by the world''s logic. Effect: -Allows full access to all traits and abilities of a class even if it''s set as a sub class. -Lift''s the ban of limits set over an ablity, skills, or class specific skills. -Allows the ability to grant one skill to an accessory: Accesssory Enchant. Requirements: Level 100 Str 100 Vit 100 Agi 100 Dex 100 Int 100 Wis 100 Chaos: Holy crap......! This is an OP item for sure! I''m so damn lucky to have this! Overjoyed about the effects of the item, even though he''s unable to equip it yet, he was excited at the time that he will be able to. Having been elated and excited. Chaos walk straight to the metal door and without hesitation, opened the door and went through. As soon as he entered, he got another notification. "You''re the first adventurer to discover the Sealed Dungeon of the Legion" "You gain 500 fame and +10 Luck for being the first one to discover this cave." "Experience and item drop chance is doubled for 1 month, first defeated monster will drop it''s best loot." Chaos, being excited, like finding a new toy, grins and move looking straight and with expectation for strong opponents within the dungeon. Chapter 15 : Dark Era Chapter 15 : Dark Era The Dark Era is a time just right after the creation. A being known as "The Creator" had also gave birth to many higher beings now called themselves "Gods". The Creator made them so they will oversee the world he had created, it''s riches and it''s inhabitants. But unexpected event occurred. The Gods, wanted more for themselves, envied what their other peers have were not content and sought after what others have. This event spark the same feelings and greed witht he other Gods thus, the ward of the Gods started. It encompass all. The inhabitants of the world each have Gods they supported, they revered and join the war to conquer for their God. Not all Gods has greed within them. Others that were content with what they have did not join the war and kept what they could and protected the inhabitants under their land. But the greedy Gods still wanted more. Even the ones that did not want to join, this Gods wanted theirs. Because of this lust for everything, the Gods plead and called out to the Creator. The Creator responded by creating another being, able to put a halt on the greedy Gods. Dragons, the Creator''s enforcer were created. Very powerful creatures, intelligent and loyal to the creator. With the Dragon''s appearance, the height of the dark era began. The dragons pushed the greedy Gods back to their territory. Many dragons lost their lives in the struggle against the Gods and their followers but they were still able to corner this greedy Gods. Once this Gods is within their own territory that was initially assigned to them, the creator not wanting to end this one''s lives and even the dragons are unable to, instead sealed all the greedy Gods within their territory. Their, this Gods lies asleep, never to wake again. This Gods though before being sealed swore that if they were woken up, they will continue what they started and even ascend to where the creator lies and get their revenge. Once the event called "The Sealing" were finished, the land that was devastated took a long time to regain their vitality. Without the Gods waging war with each other, the land was able to heal especially with the help of the dragons. Other powerful dragons who were the first ones that the creator made chose to sleep as well and seal themselves until they are needed for they predict that as long as the greedy gods were asleep, there will be time that they will awoke and plunge the world in chaos once again. The Creator agreed and sealed this dragons within a place that none can reach. They will awaken once signs of the dark era shows itself unto the world. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Many temple was built deep within the jungle, the desert, deep into the ocean, up in the heavens, within the fiery pits, to the mountains, in the frozen tundra, within the earth, the land of the dead, the womb of the beast and many other places, where the dragons have sealed a part of their power that will help awaken them in time of need. The dragon enforcers identity carved on each temple. The seed of chaos, the infinite dragon "Legion" The start of calamity, the imposing prince "Beheader" The orginator of end, the gods exodus "Ether" The giver of order and testament, the emperor "Divine" The path of destruction, the unstoppable "Tyrant" The one who set disaster in motion, the first in line "Vanguard" The twins that brought end and demise, the silent "Gemini" The encompassing entity, conductor of requiem "Strategist" The sign of the apocalypse, the end of time "Death" The one that will let thou fall to ruin, the darkness "Reaper" The last defense, the end of time "Omega" The final moment, the end of the gods "Ragnarok" Thou release the power sealed within, with the blood of the enforcer will awaken the one''s that can stop the beings in deep slumber.