《Hero Killer》


 A day in Travis’s Life

    Unfair is the perfect description of life. You can spend your whole life striving to achieve something, only for someone more fortunate, or simply luckier, to take it first. There¡¯s no deeper meaning, no justification¡ªit just is. That was the thought that echoed constantly in Travis Blackthorn¡¯s mind.


    Travis Blackthorn, a 17-year-old high school student, wasn¡¯t living his best life by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, he was enduring one of the worst periods of his young existence. A simple, unassuming kid, Travis was known for his kindness. He treated everyone with respect, regardless of how they treated him in return. This virtue, however, turned into his greatest vulnerability, as many of those around him exploited his good nature without a second thought.


    His high school journey had started on a positive note. His first year was smooth¡ªfilled with the typical experiences of a teenager finding his way. But everything changed when he entered his second year. The class he was placed in turned out to be a collection of the most unruly and malicious students he had ever encountered. From the beginning, they decided Travis didn¡¯t belong. He became an outcast, isolated in a sea of classmates who thrived on cruelty.


    At first, Travis tried to ignore the exclusion. Loneliness, though difficult, seemed a small price to pay for the opportunity to focus on his studies. But the situation deteriorated rapidly. The verbal jabs turned into relentless teasing, and the teasing escalated into acts of humiliation. Eventually, it reached a point where Travis became the class¡¯s unofficial punching bag¡ªan outlet for their frustrations and sadistic amusement.


    Each day was a battle he never signed up for, one where his resolve was tested repeatedly. But no matter how much he tried to endure, the weight of their torment continued to grow, threatening to crush the very essence of who he was.


    At the moment, Travis was walking toward the head office, his steps slow and hesitant. This was where his teacher would be at this time of day, and the very thought made his stomach churn. He cast nervous glances over his shoulder, scanning the corridors in fear that one of his classmates might see him. The possibility of their mocking laughter was enough to make his palms sweat.


    Reaching the door, he paused, his knuckles hovering in the air for a second before he forced himself to knock. The hollow sound echoed in the empty hallway. He waited, his heart pounding in his chest. When the door finally creaked open, he was met with the familiar but stern face of his form teacher, who glanced at him briefly before stepping aside.


    "Come in," the teacher said curtly. Travis nodded, swallowing hard as he stepped inside.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    They walked past rows of desks in the faculty room, the scent of coffee and old paper hanging in the air. Other teachers barely glanced at them, engrossed in their work or hushed conversations. Travis felt small, as though the walls were pressing in on him. The teacher led him to his table, a cluttered surface covered with papers, pens, and a half-empty mug.


    "So, Travis," the teacher began, settling into his chair and leaning back. He clicked his pen up and down in a rhythmic, almost taunting manner. "What brings you here?" His tone was laced with impatience, his eyes already distant.


    Travis hesitated, shifting uncomfortably under the weight of his teacher''s disinterest. He felt the words catch in his throat but knew he had to speak. If he didn¡¯t, he would suffer in silence for the rest of his life.


    "Well, um, I''m having trouble with my classmates," he said finally, his voice barely above a whisper. "They aren¡¯t treating me well, Sir."


    The teacher raised an eyebrow, his expression a mixture of boredom and skepticism. "So you''re saying you¡¯re being bullied?" he asked flatly, tapping his pen against the desk.


    "Yes, Sir," Travis replied quickly, his voice more urgent now, hoping the teacher might finally understand.


    The teacher sighed, leaning forward slightly. "Well, I find that quite unbelievable," he said with a smirk.


    "You know, I have the best class in the whole grade. In fact, out of every student, you''re the one underperforming, Travis." He clicked his pen sharply, the sound like a gavel striking a final verdict. "Wait, is that what this is about? You''re jealous, aren¡¯t you? Jealous of their success? God, I can¡¯t believe you..."


    His words blurred together, fading into the background as Travis¡¯s heart sank. A cold weight settled in his chest, the realization dawning that his teacher wasn¡¯t just dismissive¡ªhe was complicit.


    When the teacher finally stopped speaking, his tone shifted to one of cold authority. "You¡¯re going to apologize to the class after the break. For lying about them, understand? We won¡¯t tolerate baseless accusations here."


    Travis opened his mouth to protest, but the look in the teacher''s eyes silenced him. Defeated, he nodded. The threat of involving his parents was enough to keep him compliant.


    When the bell rang, signaling the end of the break, Travis stood in front of the class, his cheeks burning as he mumbled an apology. His classmates smirked, some whispering among themselves. The teacher watched from his desk, arms crossed, his expression smug.


    As Travis sat down, he turned his gaze to the window, his eyes following the clouds drifting across the sky. A lump formed in his throat, but he swallowed it down. Today, he realized with a sinking certainty, would be one of the worst days of his life.


    When school ended Travis, found himself standing outside in the field surrounding by many guys in his class. He simply stared at them blankly. No emotion on his face as he recalled his life.


    ''What did I ever do, to deserve this?'' He asked himself as he stared at the sky.


    He is now sat down on his knees with no pants on as his peers laugh and ridicule him. Travis with his face down held back tears, hearing the laughs of his fellow classmates was quite painful, especially knowing that he''ll see them again tomorrow. Yet he couldn''t do anything, born naturally weak and shy he can''t do anything but sit there as they laugh and record his shameful sight.


    '' How I wish isekais were real. Wouldn''t that mean that I''d have to do? I guess but I''m not confident enough to kill myself honestly '' he thought.


    " He''s crying. That''s so sad"


    " Little baby Travis can''t do shit but cry. What a loser!"


    " Hahahahaha"


    The loud sounds of them laughing, made his blood boil, but he couldn''t do anything. Balling up his fists in rage, but too scared to even utter a single word. He knew he was pathetic, but didn''t have the will to change that.


    He knew it wasn''t fair as well, he didn''t do anything to deserve this. Yet here he was.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Summoned By A God

    " Hey guys let''s beat up one last time. I''m getting bored of this, he doesn''t even have any money to give to us. Fucken poor loser"


    The biggest guy in the group came and told him to stand up, his eyes were swollen so he could barely see what was infront of him. As he stood up, though he struggled he looked around him, there were several people surrounding him. Which put him at a disadvantage.


    Travis¡¯s vision blurred as the punches landed on his face, each blow carrying a stinging force that resonated through his skull. The taste of blood filled his mouth, and he could feel the warmth trickling down his split lip. Gasping for air, he struggled to rise from his knees, but another kick to the stomach sent waves of searing pain through his entire body, causing him to convulse in agony.


    The relentless assault continued, his body absorbing the impact of fists and boots like a punching bag. The sound of his own labored breathing mixed with the sinister laughter of his attackers, creating a disorienting symphony of brutality. Travis¡¯s hands trembled as he tried to shield himself, but the blows kept coming, each one intensifying the throbbing ache that radiated from his battered form.


    Crashing into the unforgiving wall, he felt the sharp edges digging into his back, exacerbating the torment. As he struggled to stand, the dim light revealed the disarray of his once composed appearance ¨C torn clothes, bloodied and bruised. The cycle of pain persisted, a relentless dance orchestrated by his assailants, leaving Travis helpless in the merciless onslaught of violence.


    Lying on the ground, immobile and broken, Travis''s body bore the weight of the excruciating pain from shattered bones. Every breath sent ripples of agony through him, and he could feel the throbbing ache in every inch of his being. As he lay there, staring at the muted hues of the moon outside, his buffed-up cheek and swollen eyelids testified to the brutality he had endured.


    The moonlight, though distant and blurred through his battered vision, offered a small reprieve from the darkness that enveloped him. He strained to appreciate its sight, finding solace in the pale glow that gently touched the edges of his battered form. The contrast between the serenity outside and the chaos within seemed surreal as he lay there, broken and vulnerable, in the aftermath of the relentless assault.


    '' Maybe this will kill me. '' he thought.


    Right beside him, a brilliant blue light suddenly began to emanate from the wall, casting its intense glow across the entire alleyway. Travis, who had his eyes closed, instinctively opened them as the light caught his attention. Before he could even begin to question its origin, a potent force suddenly gripped him, pulling him irresistibly towards the luminous source. The very next second it vanished.


    .....


    A few moments later, Travis found himself surrounded by a tight circle of people. His vision was hazy, like looking through frosted glass, but the voices were unmistakable¡ªhis classmates. Panic gripped his chest as their indistinct laughter and murmurs grew louder. He stumbled back, his legs trembling, and fell to the cold floor. Bracing for the humiliation of bare skin against the ground, he glanced down and realized, to his relief, that his pants were still on.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    '' At least I''m not in my underwear, '' he thought, clinging to the small mercy.


    He rubbed at his eyes, trying desperately to clear his vision, but the fog remained, stubborn and disorienting.


    Then, without warning, his vision sharpened as a surge of energy coursed through his body. It was unlike anything he had ever felt¡ªwarm, pulsating, and alive. His breathing steadied as the stinging pain of his earlier wounds faded into nothingness. He flexed his fingers, his mind racing.


    '' What the hell? Am I going crazy? '' The thought lingered as he slowly rose to his feet, his movements surprisingly fluid and strong.


    Glancing around, he realized he had moved without noticing, now standing behind his classmates. His heart pounded, but it wasn¡¯t from fear¡ªit was something else, something raw and unfamiliar.


    Before he could fully process what was happening, the air around them shifted, growing dense and oppressive. From the shadows, a colossal figure emerged, his presence filling the space with an overwhelming sense of authority. He towered over everyone, his form exuding an aura that demanded attention.


    As he stepped forward, the empty surroundings melted away, transforming into an ornate throne room. Marble pillars stretched toward a ceiling that seemed to glow with its own light, and crimson banners adorned the walls, fluttering in an unseen wind. The giant figure took his place on a grand throne, his every movement deliberate and commanding.


    ¡°Welcome, my dear heroes,¡± the man said, his deep, resonant voice reverberating through the room like a storm. The power in his tone sent shivers down their spines, making their knees weak.


    Travis blinked, his confusion deepening. '' Heroes? What is he talking about?''


    The man¡¯s piercing gaze swept over the group, as if weighing their very souls. He opened his mouth to speak again, but his words were interrupted by a sharp outburst.


    ¡°Yo, where the fuck are we?!¡± one of the students shouted, stepping forward, his frustration and fear plain on his face.


    The man¡¯s eyes snapped to the boy, his gaze sharp enough to cut steel. He tilted his head slightly, his expression a mixture of irritation and amusement. ¡°Well, I was just about to explain that,¡± he said, his voice dropping an octave, each syllable dripping with authority. ¡°Now, hush.¡±


    The man¡¯s glare bore into the student, and a wave of pure terror washed over him. His bravado melted away as he nodded instinctively, unable to resist the command. The room fell silent, the air thick with tension, as they waited for the man to continue.


    ¡°Well, now let me explain,¡± Zephyros began, his voice carrying a regal calm despite the growing unrest. ¡°I am Zephyros, a deity¡ªor a god, in your common tongue. I summoned you all here because a world is in need of help, you see.¡± His words echoed through the grand hall, each syllable deliberate and weighted.


    Before he could elaborate further, a student stepped forward with defiance written all over her face. She had striking red hair pulled into a high ponytail and an intense, no-nonsense glare. ¡°You do know this is classified as kidnapping, right? You could get arrested for this crap! Which is exactly what I plan on doing¡ªafter you take me back home.¡± She crossed her arms, narrowing her eyes. ¡°What is this, some dumb reality TV show? You didn¡¯t even ask for my permission!¡±


    Her name was Elara Winters, and her voice carried the sharpness of someone who didn¡¯t tolerate nonsense. She stood tall, facing Zephyros without an ounce of fear, though her knuckles were white from clenching her fists.


    Zephyros opened his mouth to respond, but another voice cut through the air.


    ¡°Yeah! You better take us back home right now!¡± The shout came from a broad-shouldered boy with slicked-back hair and an air of entitlement. His name was Darius Kane, and he practically puffed out his chest as he stepped forward. ¡°Do you even know who my father is? I could have you shut down faster than you can say ¡®deity.¡¯¡± He pointed accusingly at Zephyros, his voice dripping with indignation.


    The protests grew louder as more students joined in, their voices overlapping in a chaotic chorus of demands. Some called Zephyros a liar, others accused him of staging some elaborate prank. None of them even entertained the idea that this might be real, their disbelief blinding them to the strange energy that lingered in the air.


    Except for Travis.


    He stood silently at the back of the group, his thoughts swirling. Unlike the others, he couldn¡¯t deny what he had experienced. Just minutes ago, his body had been battered and bruised, his wounds stinging with every movement. Now, he felt stronger than ever, his skin unblemished and whole.


    '' Man, can¡¯t they just shut up for once?'' he thought, rubbing the back of his neck as the noise around him escalated.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 A Powerful Threat

    His eyes flicked to Zephyros, who remained seated on his throne, his piercing gaze fixed on the group. The god¡¯s patience seemed to be wearing thin, his jaw tightening as the demands continued to pour in.


    The room grew colder, the once flickering torches now burning steadier, their light casting ominous shadows on the walls. Zephyros¡¯s glare deepened, his expression shifting from tolerant amusement to simmering irritation. Travis gulped, sensing that whatever happened next would silence everyone¡ªwhether they wanted it or not.


    A smirk curled on Zephyros¡¯s lips, sharp and commanding. ¡°Silence,¡± he said, the single word carrying the weight of an unbreakable decree.


    Instantly, the protesting voices faltered. Students who had been shouting found their words dying in their throats, replaced by a choking stillness. Mouths opened and closed, their owners trying to speak, but no sound came forth. Panic flashed in their eyes as they grasped at their necks, their frustration turning to fear.


    The room, now utterly silent, was filled only with the faint crackle of the torches and the rhythmic thud of hearts pounding in collective unease.


    Zephyros leaned forward on his throne, resting his chin on his hand as he observed them with mild amusement. ¡°Now that you¡¯re all quiet, let me continue,¡± he said, his tone calm yet laced with authority, as if daring anyone to defy him further.


    He stood, his towering figure casting a shadow that seemed to stretch unnaturally across the room. His presence was overwhelming, his movements slow and deliberate as he descended the steps of his throne. The air grew heavier with each step, pressing down on everyone like an invisible weight.


    ¡°I summoned you here not for your approval, nor for your opinions,¡± Zephyros continued, his voice resonating through the room like a low rumble of thunder. ¡°You may not yet understand the gravity of the situation, but know this: the world I speak of teeters on the brink of annihilation. And only you¡ªflawed, unremarkable though you may seem¡ªhold the potential to save it.¡±


    He stopped at the base of the steps, his eyes scanning the group. The golden light from the torches reflected in his gaze, making it seem as though fire burned within them. ¡°You¡¯ve been chosen, each of you, for a reason. A reason that will become clear in time.¡±


    Travis, still standing at the back, felt a chill run down his spine. The god¡¯s words stirred something in him, a flicker of curiosity mingled with dread. While the others remained frozen in defiance or fear, Travis found himself wondering what it all meant. Chosen? For what?


    Zephyros¡¯s gaze lingered on Travis for a brief moment, and Travis felt as though the god could see straight into his soul. Then, turning his attention back to the group, Zephyros raised his hand, and the oppressive silence lifted.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    ¡°You may speak again,¡± he said with a smirk, his voice dripping with a confidence that suggested he knew no one would dare interrupt him now.


    ¡°Now,¡± Zephyros began, pacing slowly before his throne, his voice steady and measured, ¡°I will explain the threat that looms over my world. He is called by many names¡ªThe Crimson Conqueror, The Eternal Flame¡ªbut his primary title is the Vermillion King, Ruler of a Million.¡±


    The room grew colder at the mention of the name, the weight of it pressing down on everyone like a leaden shroud.


    ¡°You might think,¡± Zephyros continued, ¡°that leading a million means nothing about his strength. That he must rely on his numbers rather than his own power. But think, truly think: what weak man can lead a million warriors? What man could command such loyalty and terror without unmatched strength? In your world, you choose leaders¡ªfigures no different from yourselves. They are flawed, they err as you do, and yet you place them above you. What gives them the right to lead?¡±


    His words cut through the air, resonating in a way that made some students shift uncomfortably. Zephyros smirked as he continued.


    ¡°The Vermillion King is not like the leaders of your world. He is different. He is the most powerful being in all of Astrevia. With a single swing of his blade, he can erase entire countries from existence. His power is absolute, his will unshakable. That is the caliber of foe we face.¡±


    As his words sank in, an oppressive silence filled the throne room. For the first time, the students¡¯ defiance faltered, replaced by the icy grip of fear. The idea of facing someone capable of obliterating a nation with ease was beyond comprehension.


    '' How the hell are we supposed to fight someone like that? '' Travis thought, his fists clenching instinctively. He glanced at the others and saw the same fear etched on their faces.


    Breaking the silence, a hand tentatively rose from the group. A girl with fiery orange hair and sharp, determined eyes stepped forward. Her name was Leona Hart, and despite the tremor in her voice, she spoke clearly.


    ¡°God Sir, how do we defeat him?¡± she asked, her voice filled with equal parts respect and desperation.


    Zephyros stopped pacing and turned his gaze to her, nodding approvingly. ¡°A good question,¡± he said, his tone softer. ¡°I was just about to explain that.¡±


    He raised his hand, gesturing for their attention. ¡°I want each of you to focus. In your mind, think of the words World System. Do not speak them aloud¡ªsimply think.¡±


    Curiosity mingled with hesitation as the students did as instructed. For a moment, nothing happened. Then, as if responding to an unspoken command, glowing screens appeared before their faces. The translucent displays shimmered with lines of text and numbers, each screen unique to its viewer.


    The sudden appearance of the screens caused a ripple of panic through the group, several students recoiling as though the glowing panels might bite them.


    ¡°Now, now, don¡¯t panic,¡± Zephyros said with a chuckle, holding up his hand to calm them. ¡°These are your abilities. What you see before you is the manifestation of your potential, unique and rare even in Astrevia. In fact,¡± he added, his gaze sweeping over the group, ¡°none of these abilities exist in my world. Out of every human being on your planet, you alone possess such talents. That is why I summoned you here.¡±


    The students stared at the screens, the words and numbers beginning to make sense as they focused. Titles, skill sets, and strange abilities were listed in glowing script, and a mix of wonder and unease spread among them.


    Zephyros stepped closer, his expression more serious. ¡°It is a peculiar coincidence that you all know each other, but I assure you, that is all it is¡ªcoincidence. Your connection to one another was not the reason you were chosen. You are here because you are extraordinary, even if you do not yet see it. These abilities will grow, evolve, and shape your paths.¡±


    Travis stared at the screen in front of him, his heart racing. The words blurred slightly as he tried to take it all in. His eyes locked on one line:


    ¡°Ability: God Swordsman ¨C Wield the blade of divine power, channeling your essence into unmatched combat prowess.¡±


    The description sent a shiver down his spine. What does that even mean? he thought, his mind a whirl of confusion and curiosity.


    As the students continued to examine their newfound abilities, the weight of Zephyros¡¯s words lingered. They were extraordinary, perhaps even chosen¡ªbut they were also about to face a power far beyond anything they could imagine.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Part Of Something Special

    Travis checked out his abilities and smiled at his stats.


    ---


    ¡º Travis Blackthorn


    Class: Death¡¯s Swordsman


    Level: 1 (Max Level: 100)


    ---


    Stats


    Strength: 3/10


    (Skinny; struggles with heavy lifting or prolonged physical effort.)


    Dexterity: 5/10


    (Average coordination; can handle basic tasks but is not particularly agile.)


    Constitution: 4/10


    (Prone to getting tired quickly; not very durable.)


    Intelligence: 6/10


    (A little above average; good at solving problems when focused.)


    Wisdom: 5/10


    (Occasionally shows insight but often misses the bigger picture.)


    ¡»


    "I mean, sure, they¡¯re a little harsh, but it¡¯s the truth, I guess," Travis thought, his eyes gleaming with a mix of surprise and disbelief. "I¡¯m just excited that I¡¯ve got this kind of potential."


    For the first time in a long while, Travis felt a real sense of joy bubbling within him. It was a feeling so foreign yet so welcome¡ªa feeling that he might actually have something to show for all the struggles he¡¯d endured. This ability¡ªthis gift¡ªwas something to be proud of. Even though life still felt like a series of relentless challenges, this was the one break he¡¯d been waiting for. Maybe, just maybe, this was his chance to finally change everything.


    He grinned, his heart pounding as he gazed at the glowing letters of his new title: God Swordsman.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    "God Swordsman," he repeated in his mind. "That sounds fucking cool."


    Zephyros watched Travis with a knowing smile before leaning back in his chair, his expression settling into something more serious. A flash of bright light illuminated the room, casting a radiant glow over six of the twenty students in the class. It was as if the very air had thickened, charged with an unseen power.


    "Congratulations," Zephyros¡¯s voice cut through the stillness, his tone deep and resonant. "You six are the students with the highest potential. In the world you are about to enter, you¡¯ll be granted a rank that has never been seen before. You will hold the title of SS."


    A ripple of awe passed through the students, each of them hanging on his every word.


    "You see," Zephyros continued, his gaze sweeping over them, "in the world you¡¯ll be facing, power is measured by ranks. The highest rank known today is S, and it¡¯s a rank held by only three individuals. Among them, the strongest is known simply as The Emperor of the Golden Empire."


    Travis felt a thrill at hearing this. The Emperor¡ªthe pinnacle of power. To even think of holding such a rank¡ªSS, a rank beyond S¡ªwas almost too much to fathom. His mind raced with possibilities.


    Zephyros paused for effect, allowing the weight of his words to settle in before he went on. "Now that we¡¯ve covered the basics, let¡¯s talk about what you¡¯ll be doing."


    As Zephyros continued to explain the details of their new world and future, a subtle shift occurred in the room. One student, Kael, locked his eyes on Travis. His gaze was sharp, filled with the unmistakable gleam of jealousy. He couldn¡¯t tear his eyes away, watching as Travis reveled in the glory of his new title.


    Kael¡¯s fingers twitched as he glanced down at his own system, his thoughts darkening. The sting of envy burned through him like wildfire. Why did he get God Swordsman? He was no different, no less deserving.


    He scrolled through his own system, eyes narrowing as they landed on a bright red button at the bottom of the screen. The words [STEAL] were written in bold, glowing letters.


    "What the...?" Kael muttered under his breath, feeling a surge of excitement and fear twist in his gut. His ability was Steal¡ªhe could steal other people¡¯s abilities. The realization hit him like a lightning strike. "I can steal people''s abilities!"


    The description of his ability flickered in his mind, an eerie calm taking over as he read it again.


    [Steal: Permanently steal someone''s ability if they are on the same level as you or below.]


    A wicked grin spread across Kael''s face. Travis is just some dork¡ªhe¡¯s weaker than me. I can steal his ability. I can take everything he¡¯s got.


    His hand moved almost instinctively toward the red button. His heart raced as he pressed it, the thrill of power coursing through his veins.


    The system immediately shut down, closing in front of him with an abrupt click. Kael¡¯s eyes widened in confusion, but before he could react further, a strange energy began to swirl around him. It was unlike anything he had ever felt¡ªa raw, overwhelming force that flooded into his body, making him feel more powerful than ever before.


    Meanwhile, Travis felt a sudden and crushing weakness surge through him. His body went limp, and he collapsed to his knees, gasping for breath. His system flickered in front of him, the familiar interface beginning to crumble into nothingness.


    Travis¡¯s mind raced, but his body refused to respond. He looked up in confusion and pain, barely able to comprehend what was happening. Something had gone horribly wrong.


    Zephyros observed the scene with a slow, knowing smirk creeping across his face. His eyes flicked between Travis and Kael, his lips curling slightly. "Well, it seems I was mistaken," he said, his voice laced with amusement. "Travis is not part of the six after all. The new six are as follows:"


    He paused for dramatic effect, allowing the weight of the words to sink in.


    "? Elara Winters


    ? Darius Kane


    ? Leaona Hart


    ? Silas Draven


    ? Freya Alden


    ? Kael Varyn"


    Zephyros¡¯s voice echoed in the room as he spoke Kael¡¯s name last, a cruel twist of fate that seemed almost too perfect. "Congratulations, everyone," he added with a faint chuckle, the tension in the air palpable as the remaining students processed the shocking turn of events.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Outcast Again

    Zephyros stood tall above the students, a towering figure bathed in divine radiance. His presence was overwhelming, his cold gaze piercing through the air with a calculated sense of authority. There was no mercy in his eyes¡ªonly a deep, unyielding disappointment. It was as though he had already known how this would end, as though Travis''s failure had been written in the stars. The very atmosphere seemed to grow heavy, as if the world itself mourned the fate that had just unfolded.


    Zephyros''s head tilted ever so slightly, his disappointment palpable. Slowly, almost regretfully, he shook his head. It was a gesture that seemed to freeze time, and with it, any hope Travis might have held.


    With a deliberate wave of his hand, Zephyros directed a stream of pure, radiant energy toward Kael Varyn. The light enveloped him, swirling around him like a storm of divine fire. As the light receded, Kael stood taller, his posture straighter, his aura pulsing with an intensity that was almost intoxicating. The transformation was instant. His eyes gleamed with a newfound power, a confidence he had never known before. He felt invincible, and the realization of what he had just taken from Travis hit him like a drug.


    Kael let out a low, cruel laugh, savoring the moment. "This is it," he muttered to himself, his voice dripping with malicious satisfaction. "This is what I¡¯ve been waiting for."


    Zephyros¡¯s voice rang out, cutting through the tension in the room with the finality of a judge¡¯s gavel. "You," he announced, his tone reverberating with divine weight, "are now the sixth strongest."


    The words crashed down upon Travis like a physical blow. They replayed in his mind over and over, each repetition like a cruel reminder of his complete and utter defeat. The silence that followed was deafening. The other students stood frozen, their mouths agape as they absorbed the shock of what had just transpired.


    The whispers began almost immediately. Gasps filled the room, reverberating off the walls as the students stared at Kael, now brimming with power that had once belonged to Travis. The cruel irony of the situation was impossible to ignore. The world that had seemed so full of promise, the dream of rising to greatness, was now slipping away from Travis like water running through his fingers.


    Travis, still on his knees, felt the weight of the world press down on him. His chest tightened as if an invisible hand were squeezing the very life out of him. His head throbbed with the sting of loss, but it wasn¡¯t just physical pain¡ªit was the emotional devastation that cut through him like a blade. The power he had once held, the potential that had made him feel like something more than just another face in the crowd, was gone. It had slipped away in an instant.You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    His system, once a vibrant display of his potential, now lay shattered before him, its fragments vanishing into the ether. He was empty. He was powerless.


    Zephyros''s voice boomed above him, not with malice, but with a cold, unsettling truth. "Life is unfair, Travis," he said, each word dripping with a finality that seemed to echo in the deepest recesses of Travis''s soul. "The weak are destined to lay beneath the strong."


    The words stung, cutting into Travis''s already broken spirit. He looked around, helpless, and that¡¯s when he heard it¡ªthe laughter. It wasn¡¯t just the sound of a few students snickering in the background. It was the laughter of the entire room, growing louder, more mocking, more venomous. It pierced through the silence like a thousand needles, each one sinking into his skin.


    His classmates, once comrades, now stood as towering figures of mockery. They were no longer the people he had trained with. They were strangers, distant and cruel. Their laughter wasn¡¯t just an expression of amusement¡ªit was the sound of his failure, his pain. It was a physical weight that crushed him from all sides.


    Why? Travis thought, the question gnawing at him relentlessly. Why am I so weak? Why can¡¯t I do anything?


    His heart felt like it was being torn in two. He wanted to scream, to fight back, but his body refused to move. He could only lie there, staring up at the mockery of the world he had hoped to conquer. He was nothing now. His power was gone. His future, shattered. His classmates, the ones who had once stood beside him, now laughed at his misery.


    Kael stood among them, his grin widening with every second, relishing in the humiliation he had caused. He wasn¡¯t just stronger now¡ªhe had won, and Travis was nothing more than a broken memory in the wake of his victory.


    Zephyros''s gaze shifted, and the God¡¯s eyes locked onto Travis, as if sensing his despair. "Now," Zephyros continued, his tone unfazed by the tragedy unfolding before him, "all of you will be taken to the Empire, where you¡¯ll be molded into powerful heroes¡ªwarriors who will shape the world in your image."


    The words hung in the air, but they meant nothing to Travis. The Empire, the dream of becoming a hero, it all felt distant and irrelevant. He couldn¡¯t grasp it. The only thing he could feel was the raw, unrelenting pain in his chest. The fear that this might be his fate forever¡ªforgotten, discarded, nothing.


    "Except you, Travis," Zephyros''s voice turned sharp, and for a moment, it seemed to carry a weight far greater than all the others. "You¡¯ll be left behind."


    Travis felt the blood drain from his face. In that moment, he understood. Zephyros wasn¡¯t just dismissing him¡ªhe was erasing him. The finality of it hit him like a freight train, his body trembling with a mixture of anger, sorrow, and the crushing weight of being abandoned.


    Before he could process the enormity of it, the world around him began to dissolve, blurring into a whirlwind of light and shadows. His vision spun, the laughter of his classmates fading into the distance. The weight of the moment was unbearable.


    '' Is this it?'' Travis thought, the words echoing in his mind. '' Am I just... nothing? ''


    The light engulfed him, and then, in an instant, everything went dark. The world faded away, leaving him alone in the cold, empty silence. The mocking laughter of his classmates still rang in his ears, the last sound of a world he could no longer touch. A world that had moved on without him, leaving him in the vast emptiness of his own failure.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 HERO KILLER

    Many, many days passed in that infinite dark void, and still, Travis remained. His body lay motionless, his mind a tangled mess of thoughts and regrets. The silence around him was deafening, the darkness suffocating. He could feel the weight of time pressing down on him, but he couldn''t escape. He was forgotten. Completely, utterly forgotten.


    "Why can¡¯t I just die?" The thought, sharp and bitter, swirled endlessly in his mind as he stared into the endless abyss before him. His eyes were wide open, fixed on the blackness, but there was nothing¡ªnothing to hold onto, nothing to hope for. The emptiness around him was profound, more vast than anything he could comprehend. It swallowed him whole, and yet it offered no escape.


    His body, too, seemed to defy the natural laws. There were no signs of hunger gnawing at him, no weariness in his limbs, not even the slow degradation of time. He was neither alive nor dead. He felt... suspended. Stuck in an unending moment. His skin felt cold and still, like the very fabric of existence had abandoned him. The world outside had moved on, but Travis remained frozen, trapped in a place where time had no meaning.


    Days¡ªweeks¡ªmonths, perhaps¡ªpassed. He lost track. The only thing constant was the dark space, an endless void that stretched in every direction. It was as if he had ceased to exist, lost to a place that time could never touch. He couldn¡¯t tell if he had been there for mere moments or an eternity. It didn¡¯t matter. Nothing mattered.


    Suddenly, a shift in the air. A presence. Travis¡¯s eyes flickered, though he didn¡¯t move. Then, a voice broke through the silence, sharp and commanding. "Weak one. Stand."


    The voice sent a shiver through him, cold and unfamiliar. The voice of Zephyros.


    Zephyros appeared before him, his towering figure bathed in an ethereal light. The God¡¯s expression was unreadable, his eyes fixed on Travis with a faint glimmer of amusement. With a wave of his hand, Travis¡¯s body jerked upright, forced to stand as if by invisible strings.


    For a brief moment, Travis hesitated. His legs trembled, unsure, his mind reluctant to comply. His body, still weary from the weight of despair, didn¡¯t want to move. He fought the sensation, but it was useless. The power Zephyros wielded was too much, too overwhelming.


    For a second, Travis¡¯s defiance took him by surprise. He had been so defeated, so broken, and yet, here he was, reluctant to obey. Zephyros¡¯s lips twitched into a subtle smirk as he watched the flicker of resistance.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    "Interesting," Zephyros mused, his voice laced with curiosity and mild amusement. "You still have something left in you."


    Travis, still standing against his will, felt the pressure of the God¡¯s gaze bearing down on him. He couldn¡¯t speak, couldn¡¯t even bring himself to respond. But deep inside, something stirred. It wasn¡¯t hope¡ªno, not yet. But it was something. Something that hadn¡¯t been there in what felt like forever.


    Zephyros¡¯s eyes gleamed with an enigmatic satisfaction as he surveyed the once-broken boy before him.


    ¡®I would love to see how far these emotions can push him,¡¯ Zephyros thought, his gaze locked on the still form of Travis. There was a subtle shift in the air, a flicker of something dark and calculating.


    Without a word, Zephyros raised his hand, and in an instant, Travis¡¯s body went limp, his consciousness slipping into unconsciousness. His body collapsed back into the endless void, weightless, as Zephyros carefully lifted him with a flick of his fingers.


    As Zephyros held Travis in his grip, the God¡¯s eyes narrowed with intent. His power surged through the boy, warping his very essence. The world Travis had once known, the one he was meant to step into, required a different standard¡ªone that was beyond the weak and broken form that Travis had become.


    With a simple gesture, the God altered the constitution of Travis¡¯s body. His muscles tightened, his frame strengthened. His senses sharpened, his stamina, enhanced. Granting him the world''s energy. His very soul was reshaped to match the expectations of the world he would soon enter, a world where strength was everything and weakness was nothing.


    Yet he didn¡¯t make him strong, he simply made him as strong as the weakest of the people in the world.


    But Zephyros didn¡¯t stop there. The God imbued Travis with a few essential needs¡ªdesires that would guide him, force him to confront his weakness. A hunger to prove himself. A thirst for redemption. A need to reclaim what had been stolen from him. And, most importantly, a drive to survive.


    Zephyros surveyed his work with a satisfied glint in his eyes. He then turned his attention to a rift in the space around him, a swirling vortex of energy that pulsed with unnatural power.


    With a careless flick of his wrist, the portal expanded, a doorway to another realm, to the Empire where Travis¡¯s fate awaited. The portal hummed with the promise of a new beginning, or perhaps a new end.


    ¡°Now, let¡¯s see if you can get back what you lost,¡± Zephyros murmured, his voice filled with both curiosity and a trace of amusement.


    He wasn¡¯t here to kill Travis. No, not anymore. Originally, he had come with the intent to erase him completely. But something about seeing Travis stand tall, despite the crushing weight of his failure, had intrigued Zephyros. The boy had been broken, shattered¡ªbut now there was a glimmer, a spark of something within him that even the God couldn¡¯t ignore.


    Zephyros studied Travis for a moment longer, then, without another word, he released him, letting the boy fall through the portal. Travis disappeared into the swirling light, his body passing into another world.


    The God stood still for a moment, staring at the now-empty space. His expression softened, if only just, before he turned and vanished. The void, once again, returned to its deep, silent emptiness, leaving not a trace of the encounter behind.


    Zephyros had come to end a life. Instead, he had given Travis a chance¡ªthough whether the boy could take it or not was yet to be seen.


    ......


    In the heart of a dense forest, the ground is still save for the shallow breaths of a young man sprawled across the earth. His body lies motionless, a faint glimmer of sunlight filtering through the canopy above and casting jagged shadows across his form. This was none other than Travis, his face stained with dirt and blood, his body battered from his trials. Unconscious, yet on the verge of awakening, he lay there, unknowingly poised at the precipice of his true journey¡ªa journey that would forge him into the Hero Killer.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dangerous Forest

    Travis awoke to the harsh scent of earth and the distant sounds of rustling leaves. The forest around him was dense and foreign, its towering trees casting an eerie stillness over the landscape. His body ached, and his head throbbed as if the weight of his memories had somehow become tangible. As his eyes adjusted to the dim light filtering through the canopy, confusion washed over him. He scanned his surroundings, the forest an endless maze of shadows and towering trunks. Why was he here? How had he ended up in this strange place?


    But then, the memories came crashing back¡ªflashes of betrayal, of his classmates'' cruel laughter, their mocking words, the way they had torn him down, broken him. The pain surged through him like a raging fire, and with it, an inferno of anger. His fists clenched, and his breath hitched as fury overwhelmed him. Revenge. That was the only thing that mattered now.


    His heart pounded with a burning desire for retribution. He would make them pay for every moment of suffering, every ounce of humiliation. No one would escape the wrath that had been kindled inside him. No mercy. No forgiveness. He swore it to himself as he gritted his teeth, his blood boiling with the need to hunt down each of them and make them regret crossing him.


    With determination, Travis pushed himself to his feet, the forest floor feeling unstable beneath him. He steadied himself, his mind set on the vengeance that awaited. The world around him might have changed, but his purpose was clear. His strength was his only ally now.


    Reaching into his thoughts, he tapped into the energy he had learned to harness. His fingers trembled slightly, not from fear, but from the weight of the decision ahead. He called forth his stats¡ªhis power, his abilities, his potential. A glowing screen materialized in his mind¡¯s eye, displaying his current status.


    ¡º Name: Travis Blackthorn


    Age: 17


    Level:


    Stats:


    Strength: 3/10


    Speed: 2/10


    Flexibility: 5/10


    Mana: 5/10


    Stamina: 2/10


    Luck: 1/10 ¡»


    The cold reality of his new situation hit Travis like a punch to the gut. "I no longer have any ability," he thought bitterly, his chest tightening with frustration.


    "That kind of sucks, but that doesn''t matter now. I''ll just have to grow stronger. Until I can fucken get revenge on those fuckers. And I mean all of them." The fire inside him burned hot as ever, fueling the drive to rise above his current weakness.


    He wasn¡¯t the same boy who had once been discarded by his peers¡ªtoo soft, too unremarkable. He was someone new now, someone dangerous. His eyes narrowed as the raw potential within him surged, just waiting to be unleashed. The past had shaped him, but now, revenge was the only thing that mattered. The thought of what he would do when he got his hands on those who¡¯d betrayed him twisted his lips into a grim, knowing smile. They would pay.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    The forest around him was eerily silent, the air thick with the smell of damp earth and decaying leaves. As he glanced down at the ground, his gaze landed on a sword half-buried in the underbrush, its blade dull but promising. Beside it, a weathered leather bag lay forgotten. Travis wasted no time.


    He reached for the sword first, his fingers brushing the hilt with a strange sense of familiarity. The weight of it felt solid, grounding. He unsheathed it, running his fingers along the rusted edge, feeling a flicker of hope. It was crude, but it would do. For now, it would be enough.


    He opened the bag, fingers trembling slightly as he sifted through its contents. There was food¡ªsome dried meat, a few scraps of bread, and a handful of berries. Not much. His stomach growled, but he quickly realized that what he had wouldn¡¯t last long.


    Maybe two days, if he was lucky. He gritted his teeth. He¡¯d ration it. Every bite would count. The hunger gnawed at him, but he refused to let it weaken him. He stuffed the food into the bag and slung it over his shoulder, the sword held firmly in his hand.


    "I should find a way out of here," he thought, scanning the dense, suffocating trees.


    For hours, he trudged through the forest, each step heavy with the weight of uncertainty. The path was endless, winding and treacherous. He thought he¡¯d catch a glimpse of an opening, maybe even a clearing, but it never came. His legs burned from the constant movement, but the thought of revenge pushed him forward, relentless.


    By the time exhaustion set in, the sun had dipped below the horizon, leaving the forest bathed in an ominous twilight. Travis leaned against a tree, breathing heavily as he took a much-needed break. He glanced around cautiously, eyes darting from shadow to shadow, heart pounding in his chest.


    He had no idea what else lurked in this dark, unfamiliar place. It wasn¡¯t just the forest he had to fear¡ªhe was alone. Weak. Vulnerable.


    The idea of being caught off guard sent a shiver down his spine. He stayed still, his senses sharpened, listening for any sound that might betray the presence of something¡ªor someone¡ªnearby. His grip tightened on the sword, his only means of defense.


    The forest had become his enemy, and every step, every breath, was now a reminder that survival would come at a cost.


    Suddenly, a rustling sound echoed from behind him, sharp and sudden, snapping through the stillness of the forest. Travis whipped around, instinctively drawing his sword in a fluid motion, his eyes darting across the shadows that clung to the trees. His breath hitched, heart racing, as the sound grew louder, more pronounced. Every instinct screamed for him to be ready, to fight whatever was lurking in the dark.


    Even though he was armed, a tremor shot through his body. The sword felt heavier in his grip, his hand slick with sweat as he tried to steady it. He was shaking uncontrollably, his mind racing. Was this it? Was this how it ended? He barely knew where he was or what he was up against, and the thought of facing something in this alien, hostile environment made his stomach churn.


    "Fuck, fuck!!! This was a bad idea," he thought, the regret sinking in with the weight of his fear. The forest, once a mere backdrop to his thoughts of vengeance, now felt like a maze of danger closing in on him.


    The ruffling grew louder, a crackling noise that sent a jolt of panic through his chest. He stood frozen, eyes wide, trying to pinpoint the source, but it was like the shadows themselves were shifting, closing in around him.


    His pulse thundered in his ears as he clenched the sword tighter, waiting for whatever was about to emerge.


    Then, out of the dense underbrush, a small, harmless figure hopped into view. A cute, fluffy bunny, its soft white fur shining faintly in the dim light, stopped and stared up at him with wide, innocent eyes. It twitched its nose curiously, seemingly unaware of the tension in the air.


    Travis blinked in disbelief, his heart still hammering in his chest. His sword trembled in his hand, and he exhaled a breath he didn¡¯t even realize he was holding. He sheathed his blade with a nervous laugh, his hands still shaking as he wiped the sweat from his brow.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a bunny,¡± he muttered to himself, trying to suppress the rush of embarrassment.


    "Damn, I got scared there." He ran a hand through his hair in frustration. "I need to fix that... but honestly, it¡¯s not surprising. For all I know, that could¡¯ve been a Goblin or some kind of gremlin."


    But before he could gather himself, a sharp whoosh split the air, followed by a thud that reverberated through the trees. An arrow lodged itself into the bark of the tree just beside Travis, barely an inch from his face. His entire body froze, blood running cold as the dread washed over him like a tidal wave. His eyes locked onto the arrow, still vibrating slightly from the force of its impact.


    He couldn¡¯t move. His chest tightened, as if the weight of the moment was pressing down on him, trapping him in place. His mouth went dry, and for a split second, it felt like his heart had stopped beating altogether.


    "That almost killed me..." Travis thought, the realization sinking in with the terrifying clarity of a nightmare. His breath came in shallow gasps, and his muscles refused to obey, still locked in the paralyzing grip of fear.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Goblin Fight

    From the direction where the bunny had appeared, a figure emerged from the shadows of the trees, moving with purpose. What made Travis''s heart race, however, was that it wasn''t alone. His breath hitched as the first creature stepped into view¡ªits small, twisted form barely visible in the gloom of the forest. But then another came. And another. Soon, they were all there, eyes gleaming in the moonlight, their jagged, green skin mottled and rough like ancient bark. Their brown eyes locked onto Travis with an unsettling hunger, gleaming like feral beasts on the hunt.


    Fear clenched at Travis''s chest. He could feel the weight of the situation crushing him as the goblins advanced, their sharp, crooked weapons held tight in their hands. His hand twitched toward his sword, but his body felt heavy, unwilling to move. He took an instinctive step backward, the brush of his boots against the ground a whisper of retreat, but it felt like a century as they closed in.


    Then, the last one stepped out of the underbrush¡ªa taller figure, its twisted bow held taut with a shaft notched, the arrow pointed directly at Travis. His breath caught in his throat. That one. The one who shot at me. The recognition hit him with a jolt.


    ¡°Goblins,¡± he thought, the word echoing in his mind with a rising tide of panic. His heart thudded painfully in his chest. His legs burned with fear, and yet, he forced himself to take another step back. He knew the danger, knew the stories, knew what goblins were capable of. He touched the hilt of his sword, but it felt heavier now, its promise of defense empty against the rising terror.


    The goblins stood there, their eyes narrowing in anticipation as the cold, jagged cackles erupted from their throats, filling the air like the shriek of wild animals circling their prey. Their smiles stretched unnaturally wide, exposing sharp teeth that glinted in the dim light, and then¡ªthere was a nod. A simple gesture between them, but it made Travis freeze. They weren¡¯t mindless. They were organized. They had a plan.


    That moment of realization was enough to snap him from his paralysis. With a guttural snarl, the goblins lunged forward, moving faster than he expected, their tiny legs carrying them with unnatural speed. There was no time to think, only to act. Without a second thought, Travis spun around and broke into a full sprint. His pulse roared in his ears as he raced through the woods, his heart pounding harder with each footfall. Branches scraped against his arms, and the dense undergrowth tangled at his feet, but he didn¡¯t dare slow down.


    Behind him, the goblins cackled louder, the sound thick with malicious delight, echoing through the trees like a chorus of vultures. It sent a cold, sickening shiver crawling down his spine, but still, he ran. He had no choice but to keep moving, every breath burning in his chest, the sound of their pursuit so close it felt like they were breathing down his neck.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    Minutes stretched on, long and endless, until the ground beneath his feet suddenly disappeared. Travis¡¯s eyes shot wide in horror as he skidded to a stop at the edge of a cliff¡ªthere was nowhere left to go. His breath caught in his throat, and he turned to face his attackers, who had emerged from the forest like a wave crashing toward him.


    The first goblin charged forward, its jagged sword raised high, its bloodshot eyes gleaming with victory. The others followed suit, running at him without hesitation, their weapons raised, their laughs ringing in the night air.


    Travis¡¯s sword was already in his hand, but as his knuckles tightened around the hilt, doubt clouded his mind. Can I survive this? His legs shook, and his breath came in ragged gasps.


    As the goblins closed in, Travis steeled himself, pushing the fear down, knowing there would be no other choice. He was out of options. He swung his sword with all the strength he had left, but his heart wavered¡ªwas it too late? Would he ever be able to escape the nightmare that had stalked him from the shadows?


    An arrow whistled through the air and struck his left shoulder with a sickening thud, piercing through his flesh.


    "Ahhhh!" Travis roared in pain, his voice raw and echoing in the night. His left arm hung limp, radiating agony with every slight movement.


    Yet, despite the searing pain, he forced himself to stand tall, gripping his sword tightly in his right hand. His breaths came shallow and fast, his vision blurring as he steadied himself.


    A goblin darted toward him, its jagged dagger raised high. With a fierce yell, Travis swung his sword in a desperate arc.


    *Gash*


    The blade bit deep, cutting through the goblin cleanly. Its grotesque body crumpled to the ground, its greenish blood splattering across Travis¡¯s sword and staining his face. He staggered back, bringing his blade up in a shaky defense. Another goblin darted forward, its eyes blazing with fury as it lunged at his face.


    Travis sidestepped on instinct, but his footing betrayed him. He stumbled and fell heavily onto the forest floor, landing on his wounded arm. Pain flared like wildfire, drawing a guttural cry from his lips. Gritting his teeth, he pushed himself upright, his back pressing against the rough bark of the wall-like cliffside. His trembling hand raised the sword again as the goblins surrounded him, their guttural snarls and laughter grating on his ears.


    Another arrow zipped past, and he barely ducked in time, the sound of it embedding in the wall just above his head sending his heart racing. His eyes darted to one of the goblins¡ªa smaller one struggling to pull its blade free from a crack in the stone. Travis''s mind sharpened.


    '' Now¡¯s my chance.'' He thought.


    With a burst of adrenaline, he lunged forward, ignoring the searing pain in his shoulder. His sword plunged downward, piercing through the goblin¡¯s skull. The creature twitched violently before going still, its lifeless body slumping to the ground.


    Travis planted his foot against the wall and pushed off with all his strength, propelling himself toward two goblins guarding the archer. They reacted too slowly. His blade swept through the air in a wide arc, cutting them both down in a single, fluid motion. Their bodies fell like sacks of meat, and Travis didn¡¯t spare them a glance.


    The archer goblin let loose another arrow, this time striking his foot. Pain jolted through him, and he hissed through clenched teeth but didn¡¯t stop moving. He charged, his movements fueled more by sheer willpower than strength. The archer fired again, and the arrow buried itself in his torso.


    "Argh!" he screamed, the pain almost unbearable, every step feeling like his last.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Heroes Meet The Emperor

    His vision darkened at the edges, but he kept going, his focus narrowing on the goblin as it reached for another arrow.


    The moment its quiver came up empty, Travis summoned the last of his strength. With a cry of pure desperation, he hurled his sword. The weapon spun through the air, gleaming under the moonlight, before striking the goblin square in the head. Its body crumpled to the forest floor, lifeless.


    The forest grew silent. The only sounds were his ragged breaths and the faint rustle of leaves in the breeze.


    Travis limped toward a tree, his knees threatening to give way with each agonizing step. He collapsed against the trunk, leaning heavily on it. Gritting his teeth, he grabbed the shaft of the arrow in his shoulder and yanked it free. A scream tore from his throat, louder than he expected. He moved to the arrow in his torso, hesitating for only a moment before pulling it out. His vision blurred from the pain as blood poured freely, staining his hands and dripping onto the ground.


    The world around him spun, but he forced himself to look up at the pale glow of the moon filtering through the branches.


    "Well¡­ at least I tried," he whispered to himself, a bitter smile tugging at his lips as darkness edged into his vision.


    ......


    [ A Month ago ]


    The Golden Empire, the world''s greatest force of power. Home to almost all the strongest adventurers in existence. Their leader? A single man, a force of nature with unparalleled might. A man whose talent was so rare it was said to occur only once in a billion lifetimes. His name was Rowan Sinclair¡ªthe world''s strongest human.


    His castle stood like a beacon in the capital of the entire continent. Its name was Taiy¨­, meaning "Sun" in a long-forgotten tongue, a fitting moniker for the seat of such blinding power. The castle itself was a masterpiece of gilded stone and towering spires, shimmering like molten gold under the sun''s rays. Its vast halls resonated with an air of grandeur and dominance, every corner whispering of untold legends and unshakable strength.


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    Inside, Rowan sat upon his throne, a massive structure of black obsidian veined with gold, carved with intricate depictions of triumphs over gods and monsters. His gaze was fixed upon the group before him¡ªthe heroes brought to him by one of the gods they so fervently worshipped.


    His appearance was unforgettable, seared into the minds of anyone who dared look upon him. Standing at a towering seven feet, his physique was a perfect balance of lean and muscular, exuding both agility and raw power. His dark hair cascaded like the endless night, framing a face carved with sharp, regal features. His eyes were an abyssal black, deep and unyielding, like twin voids that swallowed all light. Even the blind could feel his presence, an overwhelming aura that seemed to shake the air itself. A single glance from him could make an ordinary person freeze in terror¡ªor collapse outright.


    Rowan¡¯s gaze swept over the 19 students, his eyes piercing as if he could unravel their very souls. They squirmed under his scrutiny, each feeling as though their innermost thoughts and fears were laid bare.


    '' So, the gods have answered our prayers,'' he mused silently. '' Now, it falls to me to mold these fledglings into something extraordinary.''


    Rising from his throne with a deliberate, almost theatrical grace, he descended the steps. Each footfall echoed through the cavernous hall, heavy with purpose. The very air seemed to shift around him, charged with an almost tangible energy that made the students instinctively hold their breaths.


    "Young heroes," he began, his voice deep and resonant, carrying authority tempered with a surprising warmth. "Welcome to the Golden Empire. I am Rowan Sinclair, the Emperor." He paused at the foot of the stairs, a kind smile softening his otherwise commanding presence. "It is a great pleasure to meet you all."


    For a moment, the room was silent. The students, still overwhelmed by the sheer intensity of his presence, struggled to find their voices. Rowan allowed the quiet to linger, letting his words sink in like seeds in fertile soil.


    Everyone could only nod, their nervous silence filling the grand hall. None of them knew how to address royalty, let alone the Emperor himself. Their unease wasn¡¯t surprising, and Rowan saw it immediately. A soft chuckle escaped his lips, breaking the tension.


    ¡°Do not fret,¡± he said warmly, his commanding voice now carrying a hint of reassurance. ¡°You may speak however you like. Titles and formality aren¡¯t necessary here. Now, let¡¯s talk. I want to know you all personally and understand the roles you¡¯ll play on the battlefield. Remember, the Vermillion King commands an army. He is no simple foe to confront¡ªunless, of course, you¡¯re a god. But that¡¯s a story for another day.¡±


    He paused, his gaze sweeping over the group once more. ¡°Now, please introduce yourselves.¡±


    One by one, the students hesitantly began to speak, sharing their names, their skills, and snippets of their pasts. Rowan listened attentively, his sharp eyes softening as he absorbed their words. His occasional nods and smiles eased their nerves, and by the time they¡¯d all finished, the group was visibly more relaxed.


    ¡°Excellent,¡± he said with a satisfied smile. ¡°Now that I know who you are, let me show you a little more of your new home.¡± He turned, gesturing for them to follow.


    The students trailed behind him as they navigated the vast corridors of the castle. The walls shimmered with golden filigree, and massive tapestries depicting ancient battles and mythical creatures adorned the halls. Sunlight streamed in through stained-glass windows, casting vibrant hues across the polished marble floors. Every corner of the castle seemed alive with history, power, and beauty.


    Despite their initial fear, the students found themselves captivated by their surroundings. The Emperor¡¯s easygoing demeanor helped, too. Though his power was undeniable, his calm, approachable manner began to chip away at their apprehension.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 My Goal

    Eventually, Rowan led them into the dining hall, a cavernous space with high vaulted ceilings and a massive table that seemed to stretch endlessly. Servants entered with trays of food, and soon the table was laden with dishes so exquisite the students could hardly believe their eyes.


    The aroma alone was enough to make their mouths water. Roasted meats, fresh vegetables, fluffy bread, and fruits so vibrant they looked plucked from a dream filled the table. As they began to eat, their hesitancy gave way to enthusiasm. Every bite was a revelation, the flavors richer and more vibrant than anything they¡¯d ever tasted.


    Rowan chuckled as he watched them. ¡°The Golden Empire prides itself on the finest food, all sourced naturally from our lands. Consider this a small taste of what awaits you here.¡±


    Once the meal was finished, Rowan leaned back, his tone growing slightly more serious. ¡°Now, everyone here has an assigned fighting style. Your abilities will tell you much about how you¡¯ll fight, but personal preference matters as well. I¡¯d like each of you to write down your preferred weapons and techniques. From there, we¡¯ll pair you with adventurers to train you properly.¡±


    His gaze swept over them, equal parts stern and encouraging. ¡°You¡¯ll spend the next year and a half¡ªtwo years, if necessary¡ªundergoing intensive training. After that, you¡¯ll begin your journeys as adventurers, gaining the experience you¡¯ll need to face real battles. But for now, there¡¯s no rush. Greatness takes time, and I won¡¯t risk rushing you before you¡¯re ready.¡±


    The students nodded, their initial fear replaced by determination. Rowan¡¯s words carried both the weight of expectation and the promise of guidance.


    For a man whose name inspired fear across the world, Rowan Sinclair was unexpectedly kind. Perhaps it was because his own children were near their age, making him more empathetic to their struggles. Whatever the reason, his desire to see them succeed was genuine.


    As he watched them, a faint smile crossed his lips. '' Time to mold them into adventurers even greater than I ever was,'' he thought.


    ....


    At night, Kael sat outside on his balcony, leaning against the cold iron railing as he gazed at the twin moons. Their pale light bathed the landscape in a ghostly glow, casting sharp shadows on the ground below. Despite the serene view, his jaw tightened, and his foot tapped restlessly against the floor. An ominous feeling gnawed at him, coiling tighter with every breath he took.


    "I can''t use my ability anymore. Is it cooling down, or did it just break?" he thought bitterly, grinding his teeth. "Ever since I took that fucker Travis''s ability, I can only see abilities now. I can¡¯t even steal them anymore, and it¡¯s pissing me the fuck off!"If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    He clenched his fist, then slowly unfurled it. With a sharp inhale, Kael summoned his sword. It shimmered into existence, reflecting the moonlight off its sleek, metallic edge. A grin tugged at his lips despite his frustration.


    "Guess I''ll just rule the world with his ability," he muttered under his breath, twirling the blade effortlessly before letting it dissolve back into nothingness.


    ---


    The class dove headfirst into their month-long training regimen, grinding through relentless drills and combat exercises without pause. Each day pushed them to their limits, their bodies aching and battered, yet their progress was undeniable. Their growth was exponential, with leaps in strength, speed, and precision that left even their seasoned instructors speechless.


    "These kids are monsters," one of the teachers muttered in awe, watching a sparring session where students moved like seasoned warriors, their strikes calculated and devastating. "I''ve never seen progress like this."


    Rowan, however, was unfazed. Sitting in his study, he smirked as he scanned the report. His fingers tapped lightly against the desk as he leaned back in his chair.


    "It¡¯s going well," he mused, his voice low and deliberate. "They¡¯ll keep this up for the next five months. After that, we¡¯ll begin even harsher training. Let¡¯s see just how far they can go."


    His eyes drifted to a particular document lying on his desk.


    "Guess we''ll be having a summit earlier than I thought," he muttered, his tone a mix of amusement and determination.


    The paper bore two prestigious seals, their intricate designs denoting the influence of the signatories. As Rowan scanned the text, a small smile curled his lips. He set the document down and rose from his seat, his movements deliberate. Walking to the window, he let his gaze sweep over the sprawling view of the capital. The city, with its towering spires and bustling streets, seemed to pulse with life even at this early hour.


    "This is going to be exciting," he murmured, his voice barely audible but carrying a trace of anticipation.


    ---


    Back in the forest, the bright sun steadily climbed over the horizon, its golden rays piercing through the dense canopy and dappling the forest floor. Travis lay motionless among the undergrowth, the warmth of the sun on his face stirring him from unconsciousness. The irritating brightness forced him to squint as he cracked his eyes open. Blinking against the light, he turned his head away and groaned softly.


    "I''m... somehow still alive," he thought, his mind slowly catching up to his body.


    His gaze dropped to his torso, now unmarred and fully healed, the fresh memory of his injuries flashing through his mind. He stared in disbelief before exhaling sharply, the absurdity of his situation sinking in. This was a different world, after all, and he wasn¡¯t going to waste energy questioning the impossible.


    Travis pushed himself to his feet, testing his limbs. His body felt lighter, almost unfamiliar, as though the battle had left him not just healed but fundamentally changed. Reaching down, he pulled his sword from the dirt, brushing off the blade before sliding it back into its sheath.


    Surveying his surroundings, the forest loomed vast and unfamiliar, its dense expanse reminding him how utterly lost he was. Yet the unease didn¡¯t weigh on him like it had before.


    "I shouldn¡¯t leave this forest¡ªnot yet," he thought, his mind calculating. "I¡¯m still too weak. If goblins¡ªcreatures thought of as fodder in every story¡ªcould nearly kill me, what chance would I stand against whatever else is out there?"


    The memory of the goblin battle flashed in his mind: the desperation, the close calls, the overwhelming odds. A shiver ran through him, but he shook it off. He clenched his fists, a steely resolve hardening within him.


    "The day I leave this place," he vowed silently, his gaze sweeping across the dense trees, "I¡¯ll have conquered this whole forest."


    With that thought anchoring him, Travis began to move, his steps purposeful, as if the forest itself had become his proving ground.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Goblin Village

    As Travis walked along the uneven forest trail, his boots crunching softly against the grass and fallen leaves, a sudden thought struck him. He decided to check his stats, instinctively swiping his hand through the air as if interacting with an unseen menu. Before him, glowing text materialized, illuminating his path faintly.


    ---


    **¡º Name: Travis Blackthorn


    Age: 17


    Level: 1


    Stats:


    Strength: 2/10


    Speed: 2/10


    Flexibility: 1/10


    Mana: 3/10


    Stamina: 4/10


    Luck: 1/10 ¡»**


    ---


    "Huh, I leveled up," he thought, his lips curling into a small grin. "So 10 isn¡¯t my limit¡ªit¡¯s just the cap for this level. Nice. That means there¡¯s room to grow."


    The realization sent a spark of excitement through him. He couldn¡¯t wait to see what these stats would feel like at their peak¡ªor beyond.


    "Now let¡¯s see what I can actually do with this," he muttered under his breath, his hand instinctively brushing against the hilt of his sword.


    Spotting a sturdy tree to his right, Travis veered off the trail. The towering oak looked like a challenge, its thick trunk a perfect test for his skills. He unsheathed his sword in a smooth, fluid motion, the weight and balance feeling so natural in his grip that it startled him. The confidence of the movement brought a fleeting smile to his face.


    With a deep breath, he adjusted his stance and swung the blade.


    Siiing.


    The air whistled sharply as the blade sliced clean through the tree. The trunk wobbled for a brief moment before it toppled to the ground with a resounding crash. A puff of dust and leaves erupted as it hit the earth, and Travis stared at his handiwork with wide eyes.


    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    "I¡¯m getting the hang of this," he thought as he slid the sword back into its sheath, the action as seamless as his draw. A hint of pride flickered in his expression, but it was quickly overshadowed by a wave of melancholy.


    "I don¡¯t know why, but I feel so natural with a sword," he mused. "Probably because of my ability..."


    He paused mid-thought, his mood plummeting.


    "Shit. Why did I think about that? Now I¡¯m depressed," he muttered, shaking his head as he resumed walking down the trail.


    Each step was heavier now, but he pushed forward, knowing that dwelling on what he¡¯d lost wouldn¡¯t bring it back. For now, the forest was his focus, and survival his only goal.


    [After a few hours]


    As the day wore on, hunger gnawed at Travis¡¯s stomach. Reaching into his satchel, he pulled out an apple he¡¯d scavenged earlier. Its surface was coated in dirt, so when he stumbled upon a babbling river, he seized the chance to rinse it off. The water was clear, its surface shimmering under the sun, and the sound of the gentle current was oddly soothing.


    Sweat clung to his skin from hours of trekking, and the river¡¯s cool invitation became impossible to resist. Setting his belongings safely aside, he stripped off his clothes and plunged into the water.


    The shock of the cold hit him like a slap, but as his body adjusted, it became invigorating. The water seemed to wash away not only the grime but also the fatigue of the day. He floated for a moment, letting the current carry him slightly before swimming back to the shallows.


    After some time, Travis climbed out of the river, shaking droplets from his hair as he settled on a rock by the bank. Biting into the apple, he leaned back, his gaze drifting to the sky.


    "This is kinda fun," he mused silently, the corner of his mouth lifting into a faint smile. "Better than any day I had back on Earth."


    But as the thought lingered, so did a pang of homesickness.


    "I still miss it, though," he admitted to himself. "I wonder how Mom and Dad are doing. Probably working like usual."


    His grip on the apple tightened slightly.


    "Maybe I¡¯ll see them again one day. But that won¡¯t happen unless we kill that Vermillion guy. So I¡¯ve got to get stronger¡ªfast."


    He exhaled heavily, standing up and slipping on his shirt. As he turned to leave, a wisp of smoke rising from deeper within the forest caught his attention.


    His brows furrowed in confusion.


    "Smoke? Are there people here?"


    Curiosity mixed with caution as he moved toward the source, his steps deliberate and quiet. The forest thickened, the air tinged faintly with the scent of burning wood. His pulse quickened as faint cackling sounds reached his ears¡ªsharp, guttural, and unnervingly familiar.


    Travis froze behind a tree, peering cautiously into a clearing. His breath caught in his throat at the sight before him. A ramshackle village sprawled across the clearing, its crude huts surrounded by goblins bustling about, their grotesque forms lit by the glow of a large central fire.


    Heart racing, he ducked back behind the tree, pressing his back against the rough bark. Panic clawed at him as he struggled to steady his breathing. He clamped a hand over his mouth, silencing the sound of his ragged breaths.


    Climbing the nearest tree, he perched on a sturdy branch, his vantage point giving him a better view of the horde below.


    "Fuck," he thought, his mind spinning. "How are there so many of them here?!"


    He crouched low, his heart thundering in his chest as he tried to figure out what to do next.


    The goblin village sprawled chaotically, a grim testament to their crude ingenuity. Over a hundred goblins roamed the clearing, their guttural voices carrying in the night air. The largest gathering clustered around a roaring fire in the center of the village, where a spit turned slowly, cooking a freshly killed antelope. The rich, greasy smell filled the air, accompanied by the sounds of crackling flames and snapping bones.


    Their makeshift shelters, cobbled together from wood, mud, and animal hides, stood in disarray, yet each housed groups of goblins chattering or sharpening crude weapons. The sight sent a shiver down Travis¡¯s spine.


    From his perch in the tree, he could see the full extent of their numbers, and it was overwhelming. A hundred or more goblins¡ªnot even counting those who might still be hiding in the huts. The realization hit him like a stone to the chest.


    "I don¡¯t stand a chance," he thought bitterly, his fists clenched. He wasn¡¯t just weak¡ªhe was utterly outclassed. There wasn¡¯t a single scenario he could imagine where he survived an encounter with them, let alone defeated them.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Killing Them Off

    Swallowing hard, Travis pressed his back against the trunk of the tree, doing his best to stay perfectly still. He held his breath, every nerve in his body screaming at him not to make a sound.


    Unbeknownst to him, at the farthest end of the village stood a hut far larger and sturdier than the rest. Its walls were reinforced with thick branches and bones, the entrance adorned with crude carvings. Inside, seated on a throne of twisted roots and skulls, was a figure that would have frozen the blood in Travis¡¯s veins.


    The Goblin King.


    It was a monstrous creature, towering even while seated. Its sinewy frame was draped in a cloak of rough, brown animal skin, and a crown of beads and bones sat crookedly atop its misshapen head. Its beady eyes were closed, but even in slumber, its presence exuded raw menace. Massive fangs jutted from its jaw¡ªjagged and yellowed, capable of biting through stone without hesitation.


    The Goblin King stirred, its nose twitching slightly as its eyes snapped open. A glint of intelligence flashed in its gaze, and it sniffed the air with suspicion.


    "Mana¡­" the creature muttered in a low, guttural voice, its sharp ears perking up. For a brief moment, it scanned the room, a ripple of tension radiating from its hulking form.


    It leaned forward slightly, its claws curling around the arms of its throne.


    "Must¡¯ve been the wind," it growled after a pause, settling back into its seat. Yet the lingering sense of unease didn¡¯t fade completely.


    Far above, oblivious to the danger lurking below, Travis remained hidden in the branches, still as death.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the forest in hues of deep orange and purple, the goblin village grew quieter. Most of its inhabitants had succumbed to exhaustion, their guttural snores echoing through the night. Only a few goblins remained awake, scattered around the perimeter as guards, their crude weapons held lazily at their sides.


    Travis, still perched in the tree, studied their movements with sharp eyes. The cover of night was his best chance to act¡ªor escape. Deciding to risk it, he began his descent. Each branch he grabbed creaked faintly under his weight, but he moved slowly and deliberately, ensuring he didn¡¯t attract attention. When his boots finally touched the ground, he released a quiet breath of relief.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    But as he turned, his heart stopped.


    A goblin stood just a few feet away, its wide eyes locked onto him. It opened its mouth, ready to sound the alarm, but before it could make a noise, Travis lunged. His hands moved faster than he thought possible, twisting the creature¡¯s neck with a sickening crack. The goblin crumpled to the ground, lifeless.


    For a moment, Travis stared at his hands, both stunned and impressed by his speed. His breathing steadied as a thought crept into his mind.


    "Maybe I can kill them," he mused, gripping the hilt of his sword. "If I move quietly, pick them off one by one¡­ Assassin¡¯s Creed style."


    The idea fueled his adrenaline, and he crouched low, blending into the shadows as he approached the next lone guard. The goblin didn¡¯t even have time to react before Travis¡¯s blade slid cleanly across its throat.


    He moved methodically, transitioning from one guard to the next, ensuring each kill was swift and silent. Blood soaked the ground where they fell, but he didn¡¯t let himself think about it. Minutes passed, and when the last guard collapsed, he wiped his blade clean with a torn piece of cloth, his chest rising and falling with exertion.


    "That¡¯s all the guards," he whispered to himself. "Now¡­ the others."


    With grim determination, Travis moved toward the first hut. The stench hit him immediately¡ªa rancid combination of sweat, filth, and rotting food. He gagged but pushed through, stepping into the darkened shelter. Inside, a group of goblins lay sprawled across the ground, completely unaware of his presence.


    Gritting his teeth, Travis raised his sword. The sharp blade flashed in the moonlight as he struck, over and over, until every goblin in the hut lay dead. Blood soaked the dirt floor, pooling around his boots, but he didn¡¯t stop to dwell on the carnage.


    One hut after another, the scene repeated itself. The stench, the blood, the lifeless bodies. Travis¡¯s expression remained hard, his focus singular.


    But as he finished with one hut and stepped out into the cool night air, he froze.


    A loud clang echoed through the village. His eyes darted toward the sound and widened in horror. One of the goblins had spotted him during his slaughter and had run to a makeshift bell in the center of the village. Now, the alarm rang out, cutting through the silence like a blade.


    Travis ducked back into the hut, his heart pounding¡ªnot in fear, but in frustration.


    "Fuck," he thought, gripping his sword tightly. "I need to get ready to run."


    He slipped out through the back of the hut, trying to make his escape, but as soon as he emerged, he realized it was too late.


    Dozens of goblins surrounded him, their glowing yellow eyes glaring in the darkness. They hissed and growled, some clutching crude weapons, others baring their sharp teeth. Travis¡¯s grip on his sword tightened as he scanned for an opening, but there was none.


    Travis clenched his jaw, as he readied himself for the inevitable fight. "This is bad," he muttered under his breath. "Really bad."


    The goblins charged, their guttural cries echoing through the night as a rain of crude arrows sliced through the air toward him. Travis stood in the center of the chaos, his sharp eyes tracking every projectile. As the arrows closed in, he hurtled into the air, his leap graceful and precise, the projectiles sailing harmlessly beneath him.


    Time seemed to slow as he reached the apex of his jump, the moonlight illuminating his silhouette against the dark sky. He twisted in midair, his sword gleaming as he prepared for impact.


    As he descended, his blade arced downward, slashing through the goblins directly below him with brutal efficiency. Their bodies crumpled before they could react, and Travis hit the ground running, his boots kicking up dirt as he barreled forward.


    The horde swarmed him, a writhing sea of grotesque forms armed with clubs, daggers, and claws. They leaped and lunged from all directions, their shrieks growing louder, but Travis didn¡¯t falter.


    With fluid movements, he carved through the onslaught, his sword a blur of silver light in the dim clearing. Each strike was precise and lethal, his focus unwavering. Goblins fell like wheat before a scythe, their green blood splattering across the dirt and onto his clothes.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Goblin King

    They came at him in waves, but it was as if Travis had entered another state of being. His movements were instinctive, almost rehearsed, as if he had fought battles like this his entire life. His mind was clear, his body moving as one with his weapon.


    Despite his ferocity, the goblins¡¯ numbers didn¡¯t dwindle. For every one he cut down, two more seemed to take its place. Their relentless assault left him battered, wounds opening across his arms and legs, but he didn¡¯t slow. Pain was irrelevant; survival was all that mattered.


    For over an hour, the clearing was a battlefield of chaos, death, and carnage. Goblins piled at his feet, their grotesque forms twitching in the moonlight. The ground was slick with their blood, the metallic stench hanging thick in the air.


    Finally, as the last goblin fell with a gurgling cry, Travis stood alone in the midst of the carnage. His chest heaved with exhaustion, his shirt torn and stained with green and red. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a cold light on his bloodied figure.


    He tilted his head upward, gazing at the pale orb in the sky, his body trembling not with fear but with exhilaration. Something was happening. A surge of energy began to pulse through him, spreading from his core outward.


    The wounds on his body burned, but not with pain¡ªwith power. It was as if his very essence was being rewritten, his strength multiplying with every breath. He clenched his fists, feeling the raw, unrestrained energy coursing through his veins.


    Then, something else stirred within him. It wasn¡¯t his own energy but a connection¡ªno, a perception. He could sense the presence of life around him. Not just the faint remnants of the goblins he had slain, but the living creatures scattered in the forest beyond.


    He smirked, the corners of his mouth twitching upward as he processed the newfound sensation.


    "It¡¯s like my nose just got cleared after having a cold," he thought, a quiet chuckle escaping his lips.


    Despite the carnage around him, he stood taller, his eyes gleaming with determination. Whatever had changed within him, he knew it was only the beginning.


    ¡º Name: Travis Blackthorn


    Age: 17


    Level: 10


    Stats:


    Strength: 8/10


    Speed: 9/10


    Flexibility: 9/10


    Stamina: 9/10


    Luck: 1/10


    Mana: 400/ 1000 ¡»


    '' Damn, well I had already leveled up from killing all the other goblins before. But this one added 7 whole levels. But what''s up with my luck? He thought.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    But Travis shrugged it off, dismissing the strange sensations as fatigue. However, as he turned to leave the battlefield, he froze in place, his body stiffening as an oppressive wave of dread washed over him. His gaze was drawn, almost against his will, to the largest tent at the far end of the village.


    It loomed ominously, bathed in the cold glow of the moonlight, its shadow stretching across the clearing like a foreboding omen. From within, Travis could feel it¡ªa pulse of immense power radiating outward, heavier and more menacing than anything he had ever encountered. His breathing quickened, his instincts screaming at him to flee, but his legs refused to move.


    Inside the tent, the Goblin King stirred. The towering creature sat upright, its eyes snapping open, glowing faintly in the dim light. Its massive chest rose and fell steadily, but its sharp, jagged features betrayed no tranquility. It had felt something¡ªa mana force unfamiliar and threatening.


    With deliberate movements, the Goblin King rose to its full height, its hulking frame casting long shadows against the walls of the tent. It reached to the side, grabbing its massive wooden club, a weapon that seemed almost too large to wield, yet it handled it with ease. The club was adorned with crude carvings and splinters, its gnarled surface a testament to countless battles.


    From the darkness of the tent emerged the creature¡¯s silhouette. As it stepped into the clearing, the moonlight revealed its grotesque form in full. Its green skin glistened unnaturally, veins bulging and pulsating with latent power. The bone crown atop its head gave it a regal yet savage appearance, and its piercing yellow eyes scanned the carnage with a slow, deliberate rage.


    The Goblin King''s gaze fell upon the lifeless bodies of its fallen kin strewn across the ground. For a brief moment, its monstrous face contorted with grief, its eyes shimmering with unshed tears. But that fleeting sorrow was quickly consumed by something far more primal¡ªrage.


    The creature¡¯s muscles tensed, its massive hand curling into a fist around its weapon. With a guttural roar that shook the earth, the Goblin King raised its head to the sky and unleashed an ear-splitting screech:


    "KRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!"


    The sound was deafening, a primal cry of fury and pain that resonated through the night. The force of the scream sent a shockwave ripping through the village, toppling smaller tents and scattering loose debris. The wind whipped violently, tearing through the trees and nearly knocking Travis off his feet.


    Travis¡¯s ears rang violently, blood trickling from them as the Goblin King¡¯s deafening roar rendered him unable to hear anything but the pounding of his heartbeat. The world around him seemed muted.


    His gaze was locked on the towering figure of the Goblin King as it approached with slow, deliberate steps. The massive wooden club dragged behind it, carving a trail into the earth, the sound of its weightless scrape lost to him. Every step shook the ground slightly, the sheer presence of the beast an oppressive force that crushed any semblance of courage he had left.


    Travis tried to move, to force his body into action, but it was frozen in terror. His mind screamed at him to run, but his limbs refused to obey, locked in the grip of primal fear. By the time he regained control, it was far too late.


    *Brak!*


    The Goblin King¡¯s club slammed into his stomach with an earth-shattering impact, the force sending him rocketing through the air. His body folded over the weapon like a rag doll, the breath exploding from his lungs as pain overwhelmed him.


    The world became a blur of motion and agony as he crashed into a tree, the bark splintering beneath the force. His momentum carried him into another, then another, each collision stealing more air from his chest until he finally crumpled to the ground.


    Travis lay there, gasping for breath, his vision swimming as he struggled to remain conscious. His ribs ached with every shallow inhale, his body screaming in protest as he tried to push himself up. Blood dripped from his mouth, staining the grass below him as he looked up at the advancing monster.


    The Goblin King was relentless, each step deliberate and unhurried. Its glowing green eyes bore into him with a predatory focus, and the weight of its presence was suffocating.


    Travis¡¯s mind raced as he lay there, helpless. The pain and fear twisted his thoughts into a spiral of regret, the enormity of his mistake crashing down on him.


    ¡°Why did I come here?¡± he whispered hoarsely, his voice cracking.


    Visions of all the ways this could have gone differently flashed before him, torturing his already shattered spirit. The regret consumed him, each passing second adding to the overwhelming despair.


    Why? Why? Why? Why? his mind chanted, the words growing louder and faster until they became a roar inside his head.


    '' WHY THE FUCK DID I COME HERE?! ''


    The Goblin King stopped just before him, its massive frame casting a shadow that swallowed Travis whole. Its glowing eyes narrowed, its lips curling into a snarl that exposed its sharp, jagged teeth. Slowly, it raised its colossal club high above its head, the weapon blotting out the moonlight as it prepared to deliver the final blow.


    Travis stared up at the towering monster, his body too broken to resist, his mind too frayed to think. He squeezed his eyes shut, his fists clenching the bloodied dirt beneath him.


    This was it.


    The air grew still for a moment, the Goblin King¡¯s growl the only sound in the silent forest.


    Then¡ª


    *Thud.*


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Death Battle

    In the remnants of his consciousness, Travis found himself adrift in an endless black void. The space stretched infinitely in every direction, an oppressive emptiness that chilled him to the bone. He floated weightlessly, his breath shallow and labored, his mind a storm of confusion and despair.


    But then, a faint glow began to pierce the darkness. It flickered at first, like a fragile flame in the wind, before growing brighter and steadier. Travis turned toward it, squinting against the light, and his eyes widened as the shapes within it became clear.


    It was his family.


    In the warm glow, he saw his parents sitting in their modest living room, chatting and laughing as they always did. He was there too, sitting between them, his father¡¯s deep voice rumbling with a joke, his mother¡¯s gentle laugh filling the space with warmth. The sight brought a lump to his throat, and a small, wistful smile spread across his face.


    He reached toward the light, his fingers trembling as if afraid it would disappear if he moved too fast. The glow felt warm against his skin, the icy void retreating as it enveloped him. Desperation took over, and he grabbed it, pulling it toward him.


    The moment he did, the glow shifted, its warmth surging into his body. The golden light turned to crimson, coursing through him like liquid fire, seeping into every fiber of his being. His body convulsed, a roaring power erupting from deep within, reshaping him in ways he couldn''t comprehend.


    Then, in a flash, he was yanked back to reality.


    Travis¡¯s eyes snapped open, and he gasped, drawing a sharp breath into his lungs. The cold night air stung his throat, and he blinked rapidly, his vision adjusting to the silver glow of the moon above. The familiar scent of the forest filled his nostrils, and the memory of what had happened came flooding back to him.


    Slowly, he pushed himself upright, his muscles tense but oddly uninjured. He looked down at his body in disbelief, running his hands over his torso and limbs. Every bruise, every broken rib, every drop of blood was gone. He felt... renewed. Stronger.


    Yet, amidst his astonishment, something else caught his attention¡ªa pull, faint but undeniable. He could feel his sword. Though it lay discarded far from him, its presence was unmistakable, as if it were still an extension of his hand.


    Curiosity burned in him, and he raised his hand instinctively. As if answering his silent command, the sword shot through the air toward him. He caught it effortlessly, the cool steel humming faintly in his grip. Travis stared at the blade, marveling at the faint red glow that now pulsed along its edge like a living heartbeat.


    The sound of heavy footsteps pulled his attention back to the clearing.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    The Goblin King stood in the center of the village, its massive club resting on its shoulder. It had been surveying the aftermath of its wrath, but now its glowing green eyes turned toward Travis, narrowing as it sensed something new. The mana that had disappeared moments ago now burned brighter and more ferociously than before, filling the air with an almost tangible energy.


    The towering beast let out a low, guttural growl, its muscles tensing as it turned fully toward its foe.


    But this time, Travis didn¡¯t falter. He didn¡¯t feel fear.


    He tightened his grip on the glowing sword, watching as the crimson light intensified, wrapping the blade in a fiery aura. The weapon hummed with a power he didn¡¯t yet understand, but he felt its strength coursing through him, merging with his own.


    A confident smirk tugged at his lips as he stepped forward, meeting the Goblin King¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°This time,¡± he muttered, his voice steady and cold, ¡°I¡¯m not running.¡±


    The red glow from his sword reflected in his determined eyes as the moonlight bathed the battlefield, signaling the start of their final clash.


    The moment their gazes locked, the battlefield seemed to pulse with an undeniable tension. In an instant, both Travis and the Goblin King charged forward, their movements a blur of power and intent. Travis was quicker¡ªhis body a well-oiled machine, moving with speed honed through sheer willpower. He arrived first, his sword arcing downward in a sharp, decisive strike aimed directly at the Goblin King¡¯s skull.


    With an impressive display of strength, the Goblin King swung its massive club, blocking the blow with an ear-splitting clash. The shockwave from the impact reverberated through the air, causing the leaves around them to swirl violently. The Goblin King grunted with effort as it pushed back, trying to gain control of the fight, but Travis was already in motion.


    In one fluid motion, Travis slid along the ground, his sword trailing behind him as he narrowly avoided the retaliatory strike. He smirked, feeling the gap in power between them, but more importantly, the surging power within himself that pushed him toward something greater.


    The battle continued as the two forces clashed again. Each swing of the sword and club sent a violent ripple through the air, creating shockwaves that sent nearby trees swaying and leaves spiraling through the air. Travis danced around the Goblin King¡¯s wild attacks, his sword flashing in the moonlight. He struck quickly, his blade cutting deep into the Goblin King¡¯s thigh, leaving a small but bleeding wound. The Goblin howled in pain, but there was no time to savor the small victory. The beast responded with ferocity, swinging its club with unrelenting force.


    * Crash! *


    The ground splintered beneath the sheer weight of the Goblin King¡¯s attack. The shockwave from the club''s impact sent debris flying in all directions, but Travis was already in motion, his body moving as if guided by instinct. He spun on his heel and unleashed a devastating kick to the Goblin King¡¯s face. The impact echoed like a thunderclap, sending the massive creature flying through the air, its body crashing violently into a thick tree. The force of the blow shattered the bark, sending splinters scattering into the air.


    For a moment, there was silence. The Goblin King lay slumped against the tree, dazed, its massive body heaving in the moonlight. Travis stood poised, his breath steady, eyes locked on the fallen king, an unexpected sense of satisfaction coursing through him.


    ''I guess I''m good at martial arts as well,'' he thought, a smirk creeping onto his face.


    But he didn¡¯t wait for the Goblin King to rise. Travis moved with urgency, the adrenaline of the battle coursing through his veins. He sprinted toward the downed creature at blinding speed, his sword raised high, ready to strike. The Goblin King, battered but still very much alive, snapped back to its feet in a flash of movement. It roared in fury as it swung its massive club with deadly intent.


    Before Travis could land the killing blow, the Goblin King swatted him aside like a mere insect. The force sent Travis hurtling backward, crashing into a line of trees, his body slamming against the rough trunks with bone-shattering impact.


    ''Fuck, I¡¯ll never get used to that,'' Travis thought as he struggled to regain his bearings, groaning in pain.


    But even as his body screamed from the force of the blow, Travis felt something stir within him. The pain didn¡¯t weaken him¡ªit invigorated him. It fueled his excitement, the thrill of battle running through his veins like fire. He grinned through the pain, his eyes gleaming with determination as he staggered to his feet.


    This fight wasn¡¯t over. And it would be his victory.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Victory At Last

    The moonlight flickered through the trees, casting shadows over the two combatants. Travis stood firm, his feet planted like the roots of a tree, his sword glowing faintly as it pulsed with an energy that mirrored the heat of his focused resolve. His eyes never left the Goblin King, who, despite the recent blows, slowly rose to its feet. The creature¡¯s rage only made it more dangerous, and Travis knew he had to end this quickly.


    The Goblin King let out a guttural growl, gripping its massive club tighter, the wood creaking under the pressure of its iron-like grip. It swung the club overhead in a sweeping arc, aiming to crush Travis in a single blow.


    But Travis was already moving before the Goblin King even completed the swing. He sidestepped, his body a blur of motion. The club smashed into the earth where he had just been, creating a crater. Travis used the opening to dart forward, his sword flashing as he swung in a precise, diagonal cut aimed at the Goblin King¡¯s side. The blow came so quickly the Goblin King barely had time to react, but the beast brought its club up just in time to block the strike, the sword scraping against the wood.


    Without pausing, Travis followed through with a series of rapid thrusts, his movements fluid and unpredictable. Each strike was a masterful combination of precision and speed¡ªfirst a jab to the chest, followed by a low sweep aiming for the Goblin King¡¯s legs, then a fast, upward slash meant to sever the creature¡¯s arm. The Goblin King was forced to stagger backward, struggling to keep up with the flurry of attacks.


    But the Goblin King wasn¡¯t done. It roared in fury and swung its club wildly, trying to catch Travis with a devastating horizontal swing. The sheer force of the attack created a shockwave, and the club was almost a blur as it sliced through the air. Travis, anticipating the move, dropped to the ground, his body falling into a perfect roll. The club sailed just over his head, missing him by inches.


    As he rose from the roll, Travis¡¯s eyes gleamed. The Goblin King¡¯s rage was its own downfall. Travis took advantage of the opening, stepping in close, and with a lightning-fast strike, he slashed diagonally across the Goblin King''s chest. Blood splattered from the wound, the slash deep and clean, but the Goblin King wasn¡¯t finished yet.


    With a roar of pain, it swung its club again, this time aiming for Travis¡¯s head. The blow came down like a falling tree, but Travis was faster. He ducked low, his sword slicing horizontally in an arc. The blade met the club with a clang, but he immediately pivoted, his body spinning to the side. Using his momentum, Travis¡¯s blade flashed in a perfect arc, cutting across the Goblin King''s exposed side.


    The Goblin King staggered, a deep cut along its ribs. It howled in fury, but Travis wasn¡¯t about to give it a chance to recover. With a quick step forward, Travis closed the distance between them. He aimed a thrust at the Goblin King¡¯s heart. The creature attempted to parry with its club, but the sword struck first, piercing through the joint where the club met the creature¡¯s arm, causing it to roar in agony.


    Before the Goblin King could react, Travis was already spinning. In one fluid motion, he delivered a brutal kick to the Goblin King''s knee, causing it to stumble back. The sword retracted and followed up with a downward slash aimed at the Goblin King''s head.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    But the Goblin King, with a last desperate burst of strength, brought its club up again, intercepting the blow with a massive swing that sent Travis stumbling backward. The impact was enough to rattle his bones, but his feet stayed steady. He shook it off, his mind focused, never allowing himself to get caught in hesitation.


    The Goblin King pressed forward, its club whistling through the air in a deadly arc. But Travis was already gone, his body blurring as he zipped to the side. He could feel the wind from the swing of the club as he narrowly avoided it, and in the same motion, he closed in again. His sword cut through the air like a bolt of lightning. The blade sliced across the Goblin King''s shoulder, severing a chunk of its arm.


    With a battle cry, the Goblin King staggered, clutching its wounded arm, but Travis¡¯s strike was unrelenting. He stepped forward, using the force of his momentum to strike a series of powerful blows. His sword danced around the Goblin King''s defenses like a deadly waltz. He cut at its legs, tore into its side, and smashed its shoulder with an overhead blow that sent the club flying from its hand.


    The Goblin King fell to its knees, blood soaking into the ground beneath it. But it still had life left in it. In a final, desperate attempt to survive, it lunged forward, its teeth bared, eyes bloodshot with rage.


    Travis, however, was faster. With one final swing, he brought his sword down at the creature¡¯s neck, the blade cutting cleanly through bone. The Goblin King¡¯s body crumpled, its head rolling to the side, a look of disbelief frozen on its face as its massive form collapsed to the ground.


    Travis stood over the fallen giant, breathing heavily but with a fierce smirk on his face. The adrenaline was still coursing through him, but the fight was over. The battlefield was silent except for the distant rustling of the trees.


    He wiped his sword clean, the emerald stains of the Goblin King soaking into the ground. The night was still, and he felt the heavy weight of victory settle in his chest. He wasn¡¯t just stronger now¡ªhe was something else entirely.


    The glow on his sword began to dissipate, fading from a vibrant crimson to a dull, flickering light. It pulsed one last time, as if struggling to remain, but the second it did, a sharp crack echoed through the air. The once-solid blade splintered at the hilt, shards of energy scattering into the wind like embers. The remaining fragments of the blade fractured, crumbling to the ground in slow motion, disintegrating into dust that slipped between his fingers. It left nothing but a faint, fading residue of power in the air, as though the sword¡¯s very essence had been torn away.


    '' What was that power ?'' He thought to himself, but before he could further think.


    It was as if an invisible force had clenched around his heart, squeezing it with the force of an iron vice. His breath caught in his throat, shallow and quick, as the pain spread like wildfire through his veins. The world around him spun, colors blurring together as the agony intensified. He gasped for air, but it felt like the very life was being crushed out of him.


    "Ahhh!" His scream echoed, a raw sound that tore through the forest. The pain coursed through his body, twisting every nerve and muscle into a contorted mess.


    His veins bulged beneath his skin, and he could feel the heat of fire racing through his blood, but it wasn''t the warmth of energy¡ªit was the fiery touch of something far more sinister. His chest tightened with each passing second, as though the very core of his being was being slowly twisted apart.


    His body trembled uncontrollably, muscles locking and spasming, each contraction sending more searing waves of agony through him. The force of it made him lose control, his limbs flailing weakly as if they belonged to someone else.


    The pain was unrelenting, overwhelming, and Travis could feel his vision dimming at the edges. The world around him was becoming a blur, and his mind¡ªonce sharp and focused¡ªwas fading into oblivion.


    His pulse hammered in his ears, growing weaker with each beat. Desperation surged through him, but it was futile. The blackness closing in on his sight was inevitable, and he had no strength left to fight it. His eyes fluttered closed as the darkness consumed him, pulling him into its cold, empty depths.


    For a moment, there was nothing. No pain. No consciousness. Just the oppressive silence of nothingness.


    Then, slowly, everything faded into an eerie stillness. Travis''s body lay still, his chest rising and falling in shallow, erratic breaths, as if clinging to the last threads of life. The echo of his scream was the only sound, lingering in the air long after the pain had dulled.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Level Up!!

    Many hours later, Travis stirred on the cold, hard ground, the roughness of the earth pressing against his limbs as he slowly regained consciousness. A dull ache spread across his body, each movement reminding him of the toll the battle had taken. He groaned softly, his mind hazy as he pushed himself into a sitting position. His head felt heavy, but the pain was different now¡ªa lingering dullness rather than the overwhelming agony he¡¯d felt before.


    Travis cursed internally, frustration bubbling up. He was tired of passing out after every fight, always succumbing to the exhaustion that followed the intense battles. But this time, it was different. For the first time, he didn¡¯t mind.


    The pain from earlier had been unlike anything he''d ever experienced, and even though it had nearly broken him, the thought of it made him grateful for the brief escape that unconsciousness had given him.


    As he stood, his muscles protesting with each movement, his gaze wandered across the clearing. The remnants of his sword were nowhere to be found. A soft sigh escaped his lips as he noticed the faint, scattered traces of dust, carried away by the wind. It was gone. Just like that.


    "I¡¯ll sure miss that sword," he muttered under his breath. Without it, he doubted he would have even survived the battle. It had been more than just a weapon; it had been a lifeline. His only real companion in this strange world.


    With a heavy heart, he turned away from the remnants of the Goblin camp and made his way toward the tree where he had stashed his bag earlier.


    He grabbed it, slinging it over his shoulder, and walked toward the river. The cool morning air brushed against his skin, a welcome relief after the heat of the previous day¡¯s chaos.


    Travis sat on the riverbank, watching the sun slowly rise in the sky, casting a soft orange glow over the landscape. He couldn''t help but feel a strange sense of peace for the moment, the quiet stillness of the morning soothing his bruised and battered body.


    He glanced down at himself, his clothes tattered and torn. Half-naked, he felt the sting of the cold air against his skin, but he didn¡¯t mind. In this moment, it didn''t matter.


    He slid into the river, the cool water rushing over his body, numbing the soreness in his muscles. The current carried away the last remnants of his exhaustion, and for a few moments, he simply floated.


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    His mind drifted, and he couldn''t help but wonder about the strange power he''d felt earlier. That energy, that surge that had consumed him, had felt... different. He couldn''t explain it. It had been something beyond his reach, beyond what he should¡¯ve been able to handle.


    Too early, he thought. It was too early for him to unlock whatever that power was, and the price he¡¯d paid for it¡ªthe excruciating pain, the withdrawal¡ªwas proof enough of that.


    ''Oh well, I''ll find out one day, I guess,'' he mused as he let himself float further downstream, his body weightless in the cool water. For now, all he could do was keep moving forward.


    He opened up his stats and smiled, his eyes scanning the numbers as he took in the growth.


    ¡ºName: Travis Blackthorn


    Age: 17


    Level: 20


    Stats:


    Strength: 10/10


    Speed: 10/10


    Flexibility: 10/10


    Stamina: 10/10


    Luck: 1/10


    Mana: 999/1000¡»**


    "Well, that¡¯s a huge improvement," he muttered to himself, admiring the changes. His strength, speed, and stamina were maxed out, each stat brimming with newfound power. But then his eyes fell on his luck.


    "Luck... still one," he sighed, shaking his head. "Guess that''s a sign that I''m destined for shit. Well, whatever. I¡¯m half-naked and in need of some clothes," he thought, a smirk pulling at the corners of his mouth.


    The irony wasn¡¯t lost on him, but there was no time to dwell on it. He had other priorities.


    The cool river water still clung to his skin as he climbed out, feeling the crisp air bite against his bare flesh. His stomach growled, reminding him of the emptiness within. Reaching into his bag, he pulled out some dried meat and fruit, devouring the food quickly. The nutrients filled him, but the hunger still lingered, gnawing at him.


    "Guess this is what it feels like to be a walking survivalist," he muttered, finishing off the last bite before packing everything back into his bag. With his strength restored, he stood up, brushed the dirt from his legs, and slung the bag over his shoulder.


    His next destination was the Goblin King¡¯s tent. Travis had no real reason to go back, but something tugged at him, a feeling he couldn¡¯t shake. He made his way to the now-silent village, the stench of blood and decay hanging in the air.


    When he entered the tent, the first thing he noticed was the grisly sight of what appeared to be a woman¡¯s lifeless body, her skin stretched unnaturally, blood still seeping from the wounds. His stomach churned, and he gagged, the sight far too reminiscent of horror stories he¡¯d heard back on Earth.


    "I guess Goblin Slayer wasn¡¯t lying," he muttered to himself, his voice barely above a whisper. The grim reality of this world was beginning to sink in, its cruelty unfolding before his eyes.


    He stepped over the remains, refusing to let the sight linger in his mind. He scanned the tent for anything useful¡ªweapons, supplies, something to aid him in his journey. But the tent was barren, save for the woman¡¯s body. Frustration crept up on him as he frowned, disappointed by the lack of anything useful.


    "Great. Just my luck," he muttered, running a hand through his damp hair.


    With a heavy sigh, Travis walked out of the tent, feeling as if the world were closing in on him. As soon as his foot stepped outside, he heard a soft voice, a whisper on the wind.


    "Thank you."


    His blood ran cold, his heart skipping a beat as he spun around, searching for the source. But there was nothing¡ªno sign of life, no figure. His instincts screamed at him to run, but his mind quickly dismissed the thought.


    Being someone who didn¡¯t believe in ghosts or spirits, he shrugged it off, chalking it up to the wind or his own tired mind playing tricks on him. "Just my luck," he muttered again, this time with a half-hearted chuckle as he walked away from the village, the strange words still echoing in his ears.


    "I think I¡¯m ready for the outside world," he thought, a strange feeling of finality settling over him. There were bigger challenges ahead, and for the first time, he was beginning to feel like he could face them.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Captured

    Travis wanted to leave, but first, he ventured into the forest to gather food for the journey ahead. He had no idea how far the nearest town was¡ª100 kilometers or more, for all he knew. If he wanted to survive, he needed rations. Moving with cautious determination, he approached the river, its gentle current reflecting the filtered sunlight through the trees.


    He fashioned a crude spear from a sharp stick and spent an hour catching fish, their silvery bodies flopping in protest as he hauled them to the shore. Next, he gathered a bundle of dry wood, tying it with vines to make it easier to carry, just in case he needed a fire.


    He wasn¡¯t a survival expert, far from it. But he¡¯d watched enough Bear Grylls episodes to have a basic grasp of what might keep him alive¡ªthough he fervently prayed he wouldn¡¯t have to drink his own urine anytime soon.


    "Okay," he muttered to himself, slinging the bundle over his shoulder. "Time to go."


    Walking through the dense forest, Travis relied on his heightened awareness of his surroundings. It was like he had a built-in radar; every rustling leaf and snapping twig painted a vivid picture of his immediate area.


    He moved swiftly and efficiently, avoiding roots and low-hanging branches. After what felt like an eternity but was merely an hour, he noticed light filtering through the trees ahead. An opening.


    His pace quickened. Heart pounding, he burst out of the forest and skidded to a stop, his breath caught in his chest. The sight before him was nothing short of breathtaking. Rolling meadows stretched far and wide, their vibrant green grass dotted with wildflowers swaying in the breeze. Towering mountains loomed in the distance, their snow-capped peaks piercing a pristine blue sky adorned with scattered white clouds.


    Travis stood there, momentarily overwhelmed by the beauty. The fresh, earthy scent of the grass and the subtle floral aroma filled his lungs as he took a deep, calming breath. The moment felt surreal, like stepping into a painting.


    "Alright," he said, steeling himself with a determined smile. "Time to find a town and figure out what this world is all about."


    With renewed energy, he adjusted the makeshift pack on his shoulder and stepped forward, letting the vast unknown pull him onward.


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    Travis walked tirelessly for hours, his legs aching with every step as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in deep hues of orange and purple. When darkness finally fell, he found a patch of soft grass and collapsed onto it, gazing at the stars beginning to scatter across the sky. The cool night air carried the faint chirping of crickets, and within moments, his exhaustion overtook him. He drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep.


    Unbeknownst to him, the rhythmic clatter of hooves echoed in the distance as a carriage, its lanterns glowing faintly, approached. The driver reined in the horse when the figure on the ground caught his eye. Moments later, the door to the carriage creaked open, and a tall, broad-shouldered man in fine, dark attire stepped out. His piercing eyes scanned Travis''s unconscious form with a cold sneer.


    ¡°A runaway slave,¡± he muttered to himself. His voice was sharp, dripping with disdain. ¡°You thought you¡¯d be free? Think again.¡±


    With a dismissive wave of his hand, he barked orders to the attendants who had accompanied him. ¡°Take him. Put him in the back.¡±


    Two men moved swiftly, their boots crunching against the grass. They lifted Travis¡¯s limp body and carried him to the rear of the carriage. The iron cage within creaked ominously as they shoved him inside and locked the door. The carriage rattled as they resumed their journey, leaving the quiet meadow behind.


    ---


    Hours later, Travis stirred. His body ached, and his head throbbed faintly. Groaning, he blinked his eyes open, squinting at the dim, unfamiliar surroundings. The cold, damp air smelled of rust and decay. He sat up slowly, rubbing his eyes, hoping to clear the haze. But the sight in front of him remained unchanged¡ªthick iron bars loomed, separating him from the rest of the room.


    ¡°What the...?¡± he muttered, his voice echoing faintly in the chamber. He scrambled to his feet, gripping the bars as dread began to sink in. This wasn¡¯t a dream. The cold metal beneath his hands, the distant sounds of chains clinking¡ªit was all real.


    ¡°Where am I?¡± he whispered, his voice trembling. Panic flared in his chest as he glanced around, trying to piece together how he had ended up in this dark, oppressive place.


    "Calm down, kid."


    The sudden voice startled Travis, and he spun around, pressing his back against the iron bars. In the dim light, he saw the silhouette of a man standing in the middle of the chamber, his posture relaxed but his presence intimidating.


    ¡°You¡¯re in a slave prison, if you¡¯re wondering,¡± the man said, stepping forward into the faint light.


    As he drew closer, Travis could make out the features of an older man, his face weathered with age but his sharp eyes gleaming with vitality. The moment the man moved closer, a wave of raw energy rolled over Travis, making his chest tighten. He staggered back, feeling like he¡¯d been struck by an invisible force.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯ve already unlocked Mana Sense. Impressive,¡± the man said, raising a brow as if genuinely intrigued. ¡°You must be strong, then. Well, that¡¯s good news. Maybe you¡¯ve got a chance of surviving this place.¡±


    ¡°Who¡­ who are you?¡± Travis managed to ask, his voice shaking. He clung to the bars for support, overwhelmed by the oppressive energy radiating from the man. It was suffocating, like a storm pressing down on his entire body.


    The old man¡¯s expression softened, and he sighed. ¡°Ah, sorry, kid.¡± With a small gesture, the oppressive energy vanished, allowing Travis to catch his breath. The sudden relief was almost dizzying.


    ¡°Better?¡± the man asked, crossing his arms. ¡°Now then, what¡¯s a half-naked kid like you doing here? You don¡¯t exactly look like the usual type.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t say anything until you tell me where I am,¡± Travis replied, straightening up and trying to regain some composure.


    The man let out another sigh, shaking his head. ¡°Fair enough. You¡¯re in a slave prison, as I said. Specifically, one located beneath a coliseum where they force people like us to fight to the death for entertainment.¡± He paused and added,


    ¡°Name¡¯s Xavier, by the way. What¡¯s yours?¡±


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Blinding Step

    Travis hesitated, his instincts telling him to be cautious. But the man didn¡¯t seem hostile¡ªat least not yet. ¡°I¡¯m Travis,¡± he said reluctantly. ¡°Now, how do I get out of here?¡±


    Xavier chuckled, a dry and humorless sound. ¡°That, my friend, I don¡¯t know. If I did, I wouldn¡¯t still be here, would I? Now tell me¡ªwhat¡¯s a kid like you doing in a place like this? Most slaves here are brought in with their families or captured during raids.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± Travis admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°I was sleeping, and when I woke up, I was here.¡± His eyes scanned the chamber, hoping to spot his belongings, but his bag was gone. The realization made him sigh in frustration.


    Xavier tilted his head, his gaze narrowing. ¡°Okay, but that still doesn¡¯t explain why you¡¯re half-naked.¡±


    Travis shifted uncomfortably. ¡°I was fighting a monster. It tore up my clothes pretty bad.¡±


    ¡°Ah,¡± Xavier said, nodding as if that explained everything. He turned and walked back to a corner, where a worn-out bed sat against the wall. Lowering himself onto it, he gestured for Travis to sit or relax, though Travis stayed where he was.


    ¡°So,¡± Xavier began, ¡°you look like you¡¯ve got some strength in you. What¡¯s your class?¡±


    ¡°My¡­ class?¡± Travis asked, confused.


    Xavier stared at him as if he¡¯d just grown a second head. ¡°You don¡¯t know what a class is? You¡¯re joking, right?¡± He paused, studying Travis¡¯s face. ¡°Unless¡­ you grew up in some backwater village. That¡¯d explain the ignorance. Alright, let me spell it out for you. A class is basically a title that describes your abilities. Swordsman, Mage, Archer¡ªyou get the idea. So, what¡¯s yours?¡±


    ¡°I guess I¡¯m a Swordsman,¡± Travis said uncertainly.


    ¡°That¡¯s not bad,¡± Xavier replied with a nod. ¡°As for me, I¡¯m a Fighter, if you couldn¡¯t already tell.¡±


    Travis leaned back against the bars, processing the information.


    ¡°A Swordsman, huh?¡± Xavier mused. ¡°Well, let¡¯s hope your skills live up to the name, kid. In a place like this, you¡¯re going to need every ounce of strength you¡¯ve got.¡±


    "You said something about us fighting for people''s entertainment," Travis began. "Is there a goal, or are we just fighting for our lives?"


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    Xavier leaned back, folding his arms as he thought. ¡°Well, I guess you could say it¡¯s both. You¡¯re fighting to survive no matter what, but there is an objective. Winning matches earns you the chance to buy your freedom. That¡¯s the carrot they dangle in front of us. Most of the people here are either prisoners of war or, more commonly, folks drowning in debt.¡±


    ¡°Damn,¡± Travis muttered under his breath. ¡°I¡¯m neither of those. So how the fuck am I supposed to leave?¡±


    Xavier¡¯s sharp eyes flicked toward him. ¡°You¡¯re lucky they haven¡¯t slapped a collar on you yet.¡± He tapped the metal band circling his neck, the cold, dull clink echoing in the chamber.


    Travis¡¯s gaze locked on the collar, a cruel-looking device etched with faint runes. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to do?¡±


    Xavier¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Once this thing is on, it¡¯s game over. There¡¯s no getting it off unless you¡¯re dead. And at that point, it doesn¡¯t matter, does it?¡±


    Travis felt a chill run down his spine. '' He¡¯s right, '' he thought. '' I still have a shot at getting out of here. I just need to figure out a plan. ''


    As the silence stretched, Xavier¡¯s sharp gaze never left Travis. The old man couldn¡¯t shake the strange sense that this kid wasn¡¯t like the others. There was something about him¡ªraw, unrefined, but undeniably powerful. The idea that flickered in Xavier¡¯s mind took root.


    '' Why not? I¡¯ve got nothing to lose. If this kid¡¯s got potential, maybe he can make it out of this hellhole. I sure as hell won¡¯t.''


    ¡°Hey, kid,¡± Xavier called, breaking Travis¡¯s train of thought. ¡°Come over here.¡±


    Travis turned, raising an eyebrow. ¡°What do you want now?¡±


    ¡°Just come here,¡± Xavier said, his tone more insistent.


    Travis hesitated but eventually stepped forward, stopping a few meters away from the older man. His wariness was evident, but curiosity pushed him to comply. ¡°What is it?¡± he asked, crossing his arms.


    Xavier studied him for a moment, his piercing eyes scanning every inch of the younger man as if assessing him. ¡°Closer,¡± he said, motioning with his hand.


    Suddenly, Travis felt a tap on his shoulder. Instinctively, he lurched forward, spinning around to see who it was. His eyes widened when he saw Xavier standing there, a sly grin on his face.


    Travis¡¯s gaze darted back to where Xavier had been sitting moments ago, only to find the corner empty. His heart raced. What the fuck?!


    "You saw that," Xavier said casually, strolling back to his spot and sitting down like nothing had happened. ¡°That¡¯s one of the skills you gain if you learn my fighting technique. So, what do you say? Want me to teach you?¡±


    Travis stood frozen, his mind struggling to process what he¡¯d just witnessed. Xavier¡¯s speed was unreal¡ªinhuman, even. He hadn¡¯t even heard the man move. In this grim world, where death seemed to lurk around every corner, knowing that someone could have killed him in the blink of an eye sent shivers down his spine.


    '' Man, I hate my luck, '' he thought, his fists clenching unconsciously. '' What kind of mess have I gotten myself into? ''


    He exhaled shakily and leaned against the wall for support, keeping his eyes on Xavier. ¡°Alright,¡± he said, his voice steady despite the storm brewing in his mind.


    ¡°How do I learn your technique?¡±


    Xavier chuckled, clearly amused by Travis¡¯s cautious demeanor. ¡°Smart question, kid. Learning my technique isn¡¯t just about swinging your fists faster or hitting harder. It¡¯s about mastering your mind and your body to work as one¡ªbecoming so attuned to your surroundings that you don¡¯t think, you just react.¡±


    Travis furrowed his brow. ¡°That sounds¡­ vague.¡±


    Xavier shrugged. ¡°It¡¯s not something I can just explain to you. You¡¯ve got to experience it. But first, we need to see if you¡¯ve got the foundation for it.¡± He stood up, stretching his arms. ¡°Take a swing at me.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Travis asked, his stomach sinking.


    ¡°You heard me. Hit me,¡± Xavier said, his grin widening. ¡°And don¡¯t hold back. I need to see what I¡¯m working with.¡±


    Travis hesitated. ¡°What if I actually hit you?¡±


    Xavier barked out a laugh. ¡°Kid, if you manage to hit me, I¡¯ll start calling you ¡®Master.¡¯ Now stop wasting time and come at me.¡±


    Travis narrowed his eyes, his body tensing.


    '' This guy¡¯s insane, '' he thought, but he had no choice. Taking a deep breath, he pushed off the wall and charged at Xavier, throwing a punch with all his strength.


    Before he even registered what had happened, Xavier was behind him again, his hand tapping Travis lightly on the back of the head. ¡°Too slow,¡± he said with a smirk.


    Travis whirled around, his heart pounding. ¡°How the hell¡­?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s step one,¡± Xavier said, crossing his arms. ¡°You¡¯ve got potential, kid. Now let¡¯s see if you can survive the training "


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Breaking Boundaries

    Travis sat cross-legged in the center of the dimly lit prison, the rough stone floor pressing uncomfortably against his legs. His eyes were closed, his breaths slow and deliberate, but the weight of Xavier¡¯s gaze bore down on him like an anchor. He could feel it¡ªa silent, unrelenting intensity that made his skin crawl.


    '' Why did I even agree to this? ''he thought, the question echoing in his mind like a mocking refrain.


    ---


    A few minutes earlier...


    ¡°So, let me get this straight,¡± Travis said, narrowing his eyes at Xavier, who leaned casually against the cold, iron bars. ¡°You want me to break my mana pool¡ªwhich, correct me if I¡¯m wrong, could literally kill me. Did I hear that correctly?¡±


    Xavier gave a nonchalant shrug, his face an infuriating mix of seriousness and amusement. ¡°Yeah, pretty much.¡±


    For a moment, silence hung in the air before Travis burst into laughter. It wasn¡¯t the kind of laugh born from humor but from disbelief. Xavier joined in, his chuckle low and genuine, as if they were sharing some inside joke that Travis didn¡¯t fully understand. But the mirth quickly faded, and Travis shook his head, his face hardening.


    ¡°I¡¯m not doing it,¡± he said flatly. ¡°What if I actually die? From the way you told it, you were practically at death¡¯s door.¡±


    Xavier grinned, though it didn¡¯t reach his eyes. ¡°I mean, yeah. My heart did stop for a few minutes, but hey, I¡¯m still here. I promise, it¡¯ll all make sense when you¡¯re done.¡±


    ¡°That makes no sense at all!¡± Travis shouted, running a hand through his hair as he paced the small room. The uneven floor creaked beneath his boots, amplifying the tension in the space. ¡°Ahhh, fuck, why did I agree to this?¡±


    Xavier straightened, his usually easygoing demeanor replaced with a grim determination. ¡°Kid, listen to me. If I don¡¯t teach you this now, I won¡¯t be able to pass on in peace. You won¡¯t die. The only reason I stopped breathing was because I was alone. But you won¡¯t be. If it comes to it, I¡¯ll pump your damn heart myself, okay?¡±


    Travis froze mid-step, his jaw tightening. The defiance on his face softened just slightly, replaced by a flicker of something else¡ªcuriosity? A yearning to know what Xavier seemed so desperate to teach him? He hated to admit it, but a part of him wanted to take the risk, to see if he could survive and come out stronger, just as Xavier had.This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    He let out a long, reluctant sigh and nodded. ¡°Alright, fuck. What do I have to do?¡±


    Xavier¡¯s serious expression melted into a satisfied grin, his eyes glinting with a mix of pride and anticipation. ¡°Good. Now, let me explain what you¡¯re going to do.¡±


    People¡¯s mana pools grow the more they utilize them, granting greater potential as they expand. A larger pool provides immense power, making those with abundant mana reserves the most formidable combatants. However, this strength comes with a risk: overexertion can drain the pool entirely, leaving an individual vulnerable and ineffective.


    Xavier¡¯s plan for Travis was radical: he wanted him to break through the natural limits of his mana pool, allowing a continuous, unrestricted flow of energy¡ªa feat that bordered on the impossible for most.


    Now, Travis sat cross-legged in the middle of the room, his jaw clenched as he prepared to follow Xavier''s instructions. The room felt oppressive, as though the air itself weighed heavier than before.


    '' Fuck, I hate this,'' he thought bitterly.


    Taking a deep breath, Travis began channeling his energy, diving into the core of his being where the reservoir of mana resided. Mana, the life force that intertwined with every living thing, pulsed within him like a second heartbeat. It was the essence of his existence, yet even now, it felt volatile, untamed.


    The moment he reached out to his mana pool, a crushing pressure surged through his chest, making him wince. Pain spread like wildfire, and sweat began to bead on his brow, trailing down his face in rivulets. His breathing grew ragged, yet he held his ground, refusing to give in.


    Unseen to the naked eye, his mana pool expanded, stretching far beyond its previous boundaries as it pulled energy from the environment. The air in the room thickened, vibrating with raw energy as a swirling vortex of mana particles began to form around him.


    The ground beneath him trembled, faint at first, then growing more violent as the energy intensified. Cracks formed along the stone floor, and the once-quiet room erupted into chaos, with objects rattling and crashing to the ground.


    Xavier stood to the side, arms crossed, watching with a satisfied grin.


    '' I knew it, '' he thought, his heart swelling with pride. '' He¡¯s a natural. It took me a whole year to even come close to this.''


    Then, with an audible crack, the invisible walls of Travis¡¯s mana pool shattered. The energy that had been trapped within burst forth, releasing a powerful gust that sent a deafening roar through the room. Xavier braced himself as a wave of force swept past him, scattering debris.


    Travis¡¯s eyes snapped open, glowing faintly with mana. He gasped as he felt his body flood with revitalizing energy, the previous pain and exhaustion replaced by a sense of unimaginable freedom. For the first time, the flow of mana was effortless, seamless¡ªlike breathing.


    ¡°You did it, kid!¡± Xavier shouted, his voice filled with excitement. ¡°And you didn¡¯t even die!¡±


    Travis rose unsteadily to his feet, his legs trembling from the aftershock. Before he could speak, a wave of overwhelming sensations hit him. His mind was bombarded with countless presences¡ªpulses of energy, movements, and life forces from an unimaginable distance. The sheer magnitude of it made his head throb, his knees buckling as he clutched his temples.


    ¡°Xavier, what the hell is happening?¡± he groaned, his voice strained.


    Xavier stepped forward, his expression calm despite the storm of mana around them. Without hesitation, he pressed two fingers to Travis¡¯s forehead. A soft hum resonated as a soothing warmth spread through Travis¡¯s skull, muting the chaos.


    ¡°Relax, kid,¡± Xavier said. ¡°You¡¯re far from ready to handle that yet, so I locked it for now. When you¡¯re strong enough, you¡¯ll unlock it on your own. But for now, let¡¯s focus on the basics.¡±


    Travis blinked, his breathing slowly steadying as the oppressive sensation receded. He nodded cautiously. ¡°Uh, sure. I guess.¡±


    Xavier¡¯s grin returned, sharp and full of anticipation. ¡°Good. Lesson two starts now.¡±


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Xavier

    While Travis endured his grueling training, the man who had orchestrated his arrival waited in a lavishly furnished room, his posture exuding arrogance. The room itself was adorned with fine tapestries and polished wood furniture, a clear display of wealth and power.


    The man, Aaron Woody, was dressed impeccably in a tailored suit with gold embroidery, a shining brooch on his chest, and rings adorning his fingers. Every inch of his appearance screamed nobility¡ªbut not the virtuous kind.


    Aaron leaned back in his chair, a smug smile plastered across his face. His polished leather boots rested on a nearby footstool, his fingers lightly tapping the armrest.


    '' I can''t wait to receive praise. Maybe then Father will finally see my worth and name me heir to the family, '' he thought, his grin widening at the prospect.


    His mind wandered back to Travis, recalling the ragged appearance of the young man. From his unkempt hair to his worn-out clothing, Travis had the look of someone barely surviving. Aaron had immediately assumed he was a slave¡ªa toy belonging to some wealthy woman. That assumption only heightened his excitement.


    '' The bounty, the recognition, and now this... Today couldn¡¯t get any better, '' he thought, his chest swelling with pride.


    The heavy oak door creaked open, and a man walked in. Though not dressed in luxurious attire, his demeanor and the subtle richness of his clothing marked him as someone with influence¡ªa middleman of high rank in this clandestine business.


    ¡°Mr. Woody,¡± the man began with a polished tone, inclining his head slightly. ¡°Thank you for your patience. I¡¯m here to deliver the reward for the bounty. Here it is.¡± He placed a hefty bag of gold coins on the table, the unmistakable clink of wealth echoing in the room. ¡°Your valiant efforts were essential to catching the fugitive. We¡¯ve also sent our gratitude to your father for your involvement.¡±


    Aaron¡¯s chest puffed out as he beamed with pride. ¡°Yes, yes. Of course. I¡¯m always happy to do my part,¡± he replied, feigning modesty. Rising from his chair, he grabbed the bag of gold with a satisfied smirk. ¡°It¡¯s better I take my leave now. I¡¯ve done my duty.¡±


    He strode out of the room, the weight of the gold bag a pleasant reminder of his triumph.


    Once Aaron was gone, the man who had handed over the reward sat down in Aaron¡¯s abandoned chair. He leaned back, a sly grin creeping across his face as he lit a cigar.


    ¡°dumb fuck,¡± he muttered to himself, blowing out a cloud of smoke. ¡°That was easier than I thought. Let him think he¡¯s done something heroic. That kid¡¯s worth ten times the gold once we¡¯re done preparing him for what¡¯s to come. He¡¯ll bring it all back... and then some.¡±


    Before Travis was sent to the cell, the guards attempted to secure a slave collar around his neck. They struggled repeatedly, each attempt ending in failure as the device refused to latch. Frustration etched across their faces, they exchanged glances, murmuring about his unusual resistance. In the end, they decided to send him to the coliseum, assuming he possessed exceptional strength.


    ---This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    A day later, Travis stirred awake, his body aching from the cold, unforgiving ground beneath him. His stomach twisted in agony, hunger gnawing at his insides. He clutched his midsection, groaning softly. As if on cue, the sound of footsteps echoed down the dim corridor, and a guard appeared, sliding a tin plate of food through the bars.


    The meal was far from appetizing¡ªstale bread, a thin soup, and a few unidentifiable scraps of meat. Yet, it quelled the emptiness in his stomach, and he ate with deliberate bites, forcing himself to savor each morsel. The bland taste was a small comfort compared to the pangs of starvation.


    "I don¡¯t even know what my fate is in this hellhole," he muttered under his breath, his thoughts clouded with frustration and uncertainty.


    '' Valorim. They said this place is called Valorim. He recalled the name from fragmented conversations he¡¯d overheard. A big town. If I get out of here, I¡¯ll need a map¡­ something to help me find my way. ''


    Once he finished his meal, Travis glanced at Xavier, who lay motionless on his bed. The older man had been his cellmate for days, offering cryptic advice and harsh training. Now, he seemed eerily still, his face pallid and void of life.


    ¡°Xavier?¡± Travis called softly, nudging his shoulder. When there was no response, his chest tightened. Panic rising, he pressed two fingers against Xavier¡¯s neck, feeling for a pulse. There was nothing¡ªno heartbeat, no sign of life.


    ¡°Damn it, no,¡± Travis whispered, shaking him harder. ¡°Wake up!¡± Desperation flooded his voice as he dropped to his knees and began pumping Xavier¡¯s chest, attempting to revive him. Again and again, he tried, sweat dripping from his brow, but it was futile. Xavier was gone.


    His mind raced, replaying their last conversations. He knew. He must¡¯ve known he didn¡¯t have much time left. That¡¯s why he pushed me so hard to learn his technique.


    Anger and regret welled up in Travis¡¯s chest as he slumped to the floor, his head in his hands. ¡°Damn it!¡± he growled. ¡°If I had trained harder, then you''d have rested in peace¡± His voice trailed off, leaving him to sit in silence, the weight of defeat crushing him. Xavier¡¯s absence left an empty void¡ªa mentor gone too soon, leaving behind unanswered questions and unfinished lessons.


    Suddenly, the sound of steady footsteps echoed through the dim corridor, growing louder with each passing second. Travis lifted his head, his eyes narrowing as a tall figure emerged from the shadows. A man stood in front of the cell, his posture confident and his expression calm yet calculating.


    ¡°Our new gladiator. It¡¯s nice to finally meet you. I¡¯m Svelte,¡± the man said, his tone smooth, almost cordial.


    Travis remained silent, his eyes scanning the man cautiously. He didn¡¯t know what to make of him, nor did he feel like responding to someone who exuded such an air of superiority.


    Svelte¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile as he took a step closer to the bars. ¡°Well, I want you to know that starting tomorrow, you¡¯ll be taking part in a life-and-death battle that will decide your fate here. You see, being a foreigner in Valorim comes with a price. A fine, to be exact. But you don¡¯t strike me as someone who can afford to pay it.¡±


    Travis clenched his fists but said nothing.


    ¡°So,¡± Svelte continued, his smile widening, ¡°we¡¯ve decided you¡¯ll fight to earn your freedom. Win enough battles, and you¡¯ll have the money to leave this place. Lose... and you¡¯ll stay here forever as a gladiator. Do I make myself clear? I hope I am.¡±


    Before Travis could respond, Svelte turned and called out sharply. Moments later, two guards entered the cell. Travis tensed, prepared for confrontation, but they ignored him completely. Instead, they approached Xavier¡¯s lifeless body, hoisted it up without a word, and carried it out.


    Travis watched them go, a hollow ache settling in his chest. They left behind a small bundle of clothes for him before disappearing into the shadows.


    Svelte lingered, gesturing toward the bundle. ¡°Get some rest. Tomorrow is a big day for you. But before I leave, tell me¡ªwhat¡¯s your name?¡±


    ¡°Travis,¡± he answered, standing and stepping closer to the bars. His gaze locked onto Svelte¡¯s, unyielding and cold. ¡°And I hope you¡¯ll play fair, Svelte. Because if you don¡¯t, I won¡¯t leave this place without beating the fuck out of you. Not anyone else¡ªyou specifically.¡±


    The venom in his words hung in the air, and for a moment, the room felt heavier. Svelte¡¯s smirk returned, as if he welcomed the threat. ¡°See you tomorrow, Travis,¡± he said coolly before turning on his heel and walking away.


    Travis stood in the silence, his anger simmering beneath the surface. He turned and moved toward the small cot in the corner of the cell, collapsing onto it with a heavy sigh.


    The moment he sat down, he felt something firm beneath him. Frowning, he stood and lifted the thin blanket, revealing a worn, leather-bound book. Curious, he opened it and began flipping through the pages. His breath hitched as he recognized the diagrams and notes scrawled inside¡ªit was a complete manual of Xavier¡¯s technique.


    A small, bitter smile tugged at his lips. He had everything planned after all, Travis thought, running his fingers over the faded writing. Closing the book, he clutched it tightly to his chest. Xavier might have been gone, but his knowledge¡ªand his hope for Travis¡ªremained.


    With renewed determination, Travis sat back down, thumbing through the manual by the dim light filtering into the cell. Tomorrow would be a test of everything he had, and he intended to make Xavier proud.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament

    He checked his status to see how much he had grown from Xavier''s rigorous training.


    Name: Travis Blackthorn


    Age: 17


    Level: 21


    Stats:


    Strength: 1/10


    Speed: 1/10


    Flexibility: 1/10


    Stamina: 1/10


    Luck: 1/10


    Mana: ???/????


    "So I gained a single level. Cool, I guess. My mana is unreadable for some reason, but that doesn¡¯t matter. For now, I just need to learn this technique, which I¡¯m sure will give me the edge in any fight that comes," he thought, his lips curling into a determined smirk.


    The skill he was focusing on was Blinding Step, a technique Xavier had demonstrated earlier. It allowed him to move at a speed that made him almost invisible to the naked eye. From what Travis had gathered, it wasn¡¯t merely a physical enhancement but a genuine skill, as if it bent the laws of perception. "If Xavier calls it a skill, then that¡¯s good enough for me," he reasoned, feeling a flicker of excitement at the thought of mastering it.


    "Okay, I just need to channel mana into my legs. Seems simple enough. Well, let¡¯s do this," he thought, rolling his shoulders to loosen up.


    He began his training, visualizing mana as a stream of energy coursing through his body. Concentrating it in his legs was easier in theory than in practice. At first, he felt a tingling sensation, then a sharp jolt of energy that surged down to his calves, making his muscles twitch involuntarily.


    With an eager leap forward, Travis attempted the skill¡ªbut his newfound speed threw him off balance. He slammed into a nearby wall with a dull thud, groaning as dust and bits of plaster rained down on him.


    ¡°Damn it¡­¡± he muttered, rubbing his sore shoulder.


    Hours passed, marked by repeated attempts and equally repeated failures. His body ached from countless crashes, his clothes torn in places from skidding across the ground. Yet, each misstep brought him closer to control. He started to feel the flow of mana more clearly, the energy syncing with his movements.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he managed a clean run. He darted from one end of the training ground to the other in the blink of an eye, skidding to a stop with a triumphant grin on his face.


    ¡°Got it,¡± Travis whispered, his breath coming in heavy gasps. Relief and pride surged through him, though the faint burn in his legs reminded him how much he still had to improve.


    But instead of stopping there, an idea sparked in his mind.


    '' What if I could take this skill further? '' He recalled all the games he had played, where mastery wasn¡¯t just about using a skill but innovating with it. His imagination raced with possibilities.


    "Let¡¯s see if I can enhance this," he muttered to himself, his grin widening.


    This was just the beginning. For Travis, it wasn¡¯t enough to learn a skill. He wanted to own it, make it something uniquely his.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    ....


    Outside the city, vibrant posters adorned nearly every wall, advertising the long-awaited fighting tournament. Brightly colored fliers showcased dramatic artwork of warriors locked in battle, their weapons clashing against the backdrop of the grand coliseum. At the bottom of each poster, bold letters declared:


    "FIGHT FOR GLORY ¨C 3 DAYS OF THRILLING COMBAT!"


    This wasn¡¯t just any tournament¡ªit was the one where Travis would fight for his freedom.


    The announcement had sent ripples of excitement through the city of Valorim. Whispers spread quickly among the citizens, from the merchants in the bustling marketplace to the children playing in the narrow alleys. By the evening, nearly everyone had decided to attend, eager to witness the spectacle.


    The timing couldn¡¯t have been better. With the tournament scheduled over the weekend, starting on Friday, no one worried about work. Each of the three days would feature a single fight, giving the audience plenty of time to savor the build-up to each clash.


    It had been years since anything this thrilling had happened in Valorim. The city¡¯s main source of income came from its massive coliseum, a towering structure visible from miles away. The coliseum cast a long, ominous shadow over the city, a constant reminder of the town''s darker side. Yet, it was also the reason Valorim thrived.


    The prosperity brought by the coliseum made people overlook its grim purpose. Criminals, rebels, and the unfortunate were often forced to fight for survival, but the spectacle ensured the city remained peaceful. Crime was nearly nonexistent¡ªfew dared to risk being thrown into the arena.


    Despite its reputation, Valorim was an unusually harmonious place. The citizens were united in their support of the coliseum, knowing it was the lifeblood of their economy.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, the excitement reached a fever pitch. By the time the gates of the coliseum opened, a massive crowd had gathered. Families, children, and elders alike formed long lines, all eager to secure seats for the show.


    Inside the coliseum, the atmosphere was electric. Thousands of spectators filled the seats, their cheers echoing off the ancient stone walls. Merchants wandered through the aisles, selling roasted nuts, mugs of ale, and colorful souvenirs shaped like gladiator helmets.


    High above the arena floor, in the VIP section on the top tier, the tournament¡¯s organizers watched the scene unfold. They sat in a row, their seats plush and adorned with gold trim.


    ¡°This is the biggest crowd we¡¯ve had in years,¡± one of the men remarked, his voice tinged with satisfaction.


    ¡°Indeed,¡± another replied, tapping his fingers on the armrest. ¡°Though I wish we could¡¯ve exploited this further. A longer tournament would¡¯ve drawn even more money.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter,¡± another interjected. ¡°It¡¯s not a death battle, after all. Rules are rules.¡±


    ¡°True enough,¡± the first man agreed, though he sounded disappointed. He turned his gaze to Svelte, who sat at the far end of the row. ¡°Let¡¯s just hope your boy lives up to the hype, Svelte.¡±


    Svelte, a lean man with sharp features and a glint of confidence in his eyes, smirked. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry. Travis will put on a spectacular show. And when he loses,¡± he said, his tone darkening, ¡°the coliseum will have a new King Gladiator. I¡¯ll see to it personally.¡±


    The others chuckled, though some exchanged wary glances. The crowd below roared louder as the announcer stepped into the center of the arena, signaling the beginning of the tournament.


    .....


    In the dimly lit cell, Travis sat cross-legged on the cold, hard floor, his mind racing. The faint echoes of the cheering crowd outside seeped through the thick stone walls, a constant reminder of what awaited him. His heart pounded in his chest, not just from fear, but from the weight of uncertainty. Who would he be fighting? What kind of opponent had they prepared for him? He wasn¡¯t sure if he was ready¡ªbut there was no backing out now.


    He exhaled deeply, trying to steady himself. "No point in panicking," he muttered under his breath. Rising to his feet, he began stretching his arms and legs, loosening the tension in his muscles. He couldn¡¯t afford to pull something mid-fight. Every movement needed to be precise and deliberate.


    The heavy clank of iron keys jolted him from his thoughts. The cell door creaked open, revealing a guard with a grim expression. Without a word, the guard stepped forward, producing a set of heavy chains. Travis raised his wrists, his jaw tightening as the cold metal clamped around them. The weight was familiar by now, but it didn¡¯t make it any easier.


    The guard led him down a narrow corridor, the flickering torchlight casting elongated shadows on the damp walls. The air was thick, carrying the faint scent of sweat and blood from past combatants. They finally arrived at the inspection room, a small, windowless chamber with a single table and two guards standing at attention.


    ¡°Stand here,¡± one of the guards barked, motioning to a spot in the center of the room. Travis obeyed, his eyes scanning his surroundings for anything that might give him a hint about his opponent or the upcoming fight.


    One of the guards stepped forward and began reciting the rules in a flat, emotionless tone. ¡°No weapons allowed. No killing. No use of magic or magic-enhancing items.¡±


    Travis nodded, his face betraying no emotion. The rules weren¡¯t much, but he wasn¡¯t concerned about them. He relied on his skills, not weapons or tricks, and killing wasn¡¯t his style anyway.


    The guard¡¯s gaze lingered on Travis for a moment before he unlocked the chains with a practiced flick of his wrist. The weight fell away, leaving faint red marks on Travis¡¯s skin. He flexed his wrists, rolling his shoulders as he tried to ease the stiffness from being restrained.


    ¡°This is it,¡± the guard said, his voice low but firm. ¡°The crowd¡¯s waiting. Don¡¯t embarrass yourself.¡±


    Travis smirked faintly, his nerves settling just enough to let a flicker of his usual confidence shine through. ¡°okay.¡±


    The guards exchanged a glance but said nothing more. One of them gestured to the door leading to the arena. Beyond it, the roar of the crowd grew louder, a deafening wave of anticipation and excitement.


    Travis took a deep breath, steeling himself. Whatever awaited him on the other side of that door, he knew one thing for sure: he wouldn¡¯t go down without a fight.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 2

    In another room deep within the coliseum, a man sat hunched on a small wooden stool, his head bowed, eyes fixed on the bare stone wall in front of him. The room was dimly lit, the only source of light a single flickering torch mounted on the wall. Beads of sweat glistened on his brow as he wrapped his bandaged hands tighter, the worn fabric straining against his scarred knuckles.


    A sudden knock on the door shattered his focus. He looked up, his sharp brown eyes narrowing. Without a word, he stood, rolling his shoulders as the tension in his body seemed to ripple outward. The knock came again, more insistent this time. With a final tug on the bandages, he walked to the door.


    Taking a deep breath, he opened it and stepped out. The dim corridor outside offered little comfort, the sounds of the roaring crowd faintly audible in the distance. His lips curled into a tight smirk. This wasn¡¯t his first fight¡ªand he was determined it wouldn¡¯t be his last.


    ---


    On the other side of the coliseum, Travis was being led through a narrow hallway. The noise of the crowd grew louder with each step, a pulsating roar that seemed to vibrate through the stone walls. His palms were slick with sweat, and he wiped them on his pants, his stomach twisting in knots.


    ¡°Fuck, this is not the time to get scared,¡± he thought, his pace quickening as if moving would chase away the unease. He clenched and unclenched his fists, trying to steady his nerves. The hallway seemed endless, each step dragging him closer to the unknown.


    ---


    In the center of the coliseum, a man stood confidently, holding a microphone in one hand. His outfit was a dazzling array of gold and crimson, designed to captivate the crowd¡¯s attention. A long feathered hat perched atop his head, and his polished boots gleamed in the sunlight. He raised his free hand, silencing the audience for a brief moment before speaking.


    ¡°Ladies and gentlemen!¡± he bellowed, his voice booming across the arena. ¡°May I have your attention! My name is Carlos, and for this tournament, I will be your announcer! Today, we have a special fight¡ªone that will determine the freedom of two brave souls!¡±


    The crowd erupted into thunderous cheers, their voices merging into a deafening roar. Carlos grinned, his teeth gleaming as he basked in their energy.


    ¡°Now, let us welcome our first fighter!¡± he announced, gesturing dramatically to one side of the arena. ¡°On my left, a man with debts so massive they could bankrupt an entire town¡ªAdrian Grant!¡±


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


    The crowd roared again as Adrian strode into the arena. His short brown hair gleamed with sweat under the midday sun. Dressed in nothing but a pair of ragged shorts, his muscular frame was on full display. His body was a testament to years of brutal fights¡ªscarred, battered, and undeniably powerful. Adrian raised a hand to the crowd, a broad smile plastered on his face as he soaked in their cheers.


    ¡°And now,¡± Carlos continued, turning to the opposite side of the arena, ¡°on my right, the man of the hour! TRAVIS!¡±


    The crowd¡¯s roar grew even louder, a wave of sound that made Travis¡¯s chest tighten. As instructed, he stepped forward into the tunnel leading to the arena. His heart pounded against his ribcage as sunlight flooded his vision, momentarily blinding him. Squinting, he emerged into the open air and was struck by the sheer size of the coliseum. Thousands of faces stared down at him from the towering stands, a sea of excitement and anticipation.


    He inhaled deeply, his gaze locking onto Adrian at the other end of the arena. His opponent¡¯s confident stance and towering physique only added to Travis¡¯s uncertainty. He had no idea how strong Adrian was or what kind of fighter he was facing. All he knew were the rules¡ªand at this point, that didn¡¯t matter. It was far too late to ask questions.


    Carlos leaped back to the announcer¡¯s podium with dramatic flair, raising his arm high in the air.


    ¡°And now,¡± he declared, his voice dripping with excitement, ¡°it is time for the tournament to begin!¡±


    The crowd chanted, their voices counting down with him.


    ¡°Three¡­ Two¡­ One¡­¡±


    ¡°Fight!¡± Carlos shouted, and the arena erupted into chaos as the two fighters stepped forward, their eyes locked in an unspoken challenge.


    Here¡¯s the enhanced version of your fighting scene, with added fluidity, vivid descriptions, and sound effects:


    ---


    Travis stood firm, his hands raised in a disciplined fighting stance. His eyes narrowed, scanning his opponent. He knew nothing about the man facing him¡ªneither his name, his abilities, nor his techniques. It didn¡¯t matter.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s do this,¡± he thought, tension coiling in his muscles like a loaded spring. Just as he prepared to lunge forward, a blur of motion caught his eye.


    A fist shot up from below, lightning-quick yet deliberate.


    *Whoosh!*


    Travis instinctively leaped backward, narrowly evading the devastating uppercut. The air where his jaw had been seconds ago trembled from the force of the near-miss.


    ¡°What was that?!¡± someone yelled from the crowd. ¡°Adrian moved faster than anything I¡¯ve ever seen! He was inches away from shattering Travis¡¯s jaw with that uppercut!¡±


    Landing lightly on his feet, Travis steadied himself, shaking off the close call. No time to overthink¡ªjust move. But before he could formulate his next attack, Adrian was in front of him again, closing the distance with terrifying speed.


    *Bam!*


    A powerful right jab came streaking toward Travis¡¯s face. Reacting on instinct, he angled his elbow, deflecting the blow downward with a sharp crack. Wasting no time, he countered with a punch aimed squarely at Adrian¡¯s face, but his opponent tilted his head just enough to evade it.


    Adrian¡¯s eyes flickered with focus, calculating his next move. Without hesitation, he stepped back and launched his right leg upward with precision.


    *Thwack!*


    The kick sliced through the air, aimed at Travis¡¯s left arm. It carried a bone-breaking force, but Travis twisted his body, retreating just out of reach. The missed kick left Adrian open¡ªTravis saw his chance.


    With explosive speed, he surged forward and delivered a gut-wrenching punch to Adrian¡¯s abdomen.


    *Boom!*


    The impact reverberated like a thunderclap, and Adrian¡¯s body folded slightly before he was sent skidding backward across the ground. He clutched his stomach, teeth gritted against the pain. Dust trailed behind him, marking his retreat.


    ¡°Unbelievable!¡± the announcer bellowed. ¡°Travis¡¯s punch landed flush, sending Adrian sliding across the arena! But he failed to capitalize on the opening! The fight¡¯s not over yet!¡±


    Adrian coughed, straightening up with a grimace. He wiped his mouth, a smirk creeping onto his face.


    ¡°That was a dumb move on my part,¡± he muttered, rolling his shoulders and settling back into his stance. His voice carried a quiet confidence, an edge of determination. ¡°Well, I won¡¯t be making that mistake again.¡±


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 3

    Adrian straightened, his smirk fading into cold focus. Without warning, he lunged forward, his movements a blur. Travis barely caught the shift in Adrian''s weight before he was already closing the gap.


    "Here he comes!" Carlos shouted. "Adrian''s not holding back this time, folks¡ªhe¡¯s got the speed of a predator on the hunt!"


    Adrian opened with a feint, jerking his right fist forward before twisting his body mid-stride. His left leg whipped around in a high, arching kick aimed at Travis¡¯s head.


    Whoosh!


    Travis ducked just in time, feeling the air ripple above him as the kick passed harmlessly overhead. He countered instantly, springing upward with an uppercut aimed at Adrian¡¯s chest.


    Thud!


    The blow connected, but Adrian rolled with it, absorbing the impact as he twisted his body into a spinning backfist. The attack was seamless¡ªfluid and fast.


    Crack!


    The backfist grazed Travis''s cheek, snapping his head to the side. Staggering for a split second, he regained his footing and brought his arms up to block as Adrian pressed the attack.


    "Unreal! Adrian¡¯s got Travis on the ropes! That spinning backfist was brutal¡ªhow much more can Travis take?" Carlos boomed.


    Adrian unleashed a flurry of punches, each strike calculated and relentless. Travis parried most of them, his arms moving in tight, practiced arcs.


    Thwack-thwack-thwack!


    The sound of fists meeting forearms echoed like gunshots.


    Suddenly, Travis saw his opening. He sidestepped one of Adrian¡¯s punches, letting it sail past him, and pivoted sharply. Using the momentum, he drove his knee into Adrian¡¯s side with a sickening crack!


    Adrian grunted, stumbling sideways, but he recovered quickly. His eyes flashed with determination as he planted his feet and threw himself into a low sweep kick.


    Smash!


    The kick caught Travis off balance, and his legs were swept out from under him. He hit the ground hard, the impact jarring through his body.


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    "And Travis goes down! Adrian¡¯s relentless¡ªthis fight might end here!" Carlos¡¯s voice rose with excitement.


    But Travis wasn¡¯t finished. Before Adrian could capitalize, he rolled backward and launched himself to his feet with a smooth kip-up. The crowd roared.


    "Whoa! Travis is back on his feet! This guy¡¯s got the resilience of a beast!"


    Adrian smirked, impressed despite himself. "Not bad," he muttered before charging again. This time, he led with a flying knee strike aimed at Travis¡¯s chest.


    Bam!


    Travis crossed his arms just in time, absorbing the hit, but the force pushed him back a few steps. Adrian landed gracefully, immediately transitioning into a roundhouse kick aimed at Travis¡¯s ribs.


    Travis ducked low, lunging forward and driving his shoulder into Adrian''s midsection. The impact sent Adrian staggering backward, but he twisted mid-fall, landing on his feet like a cat.


    "Did you see that?! Neither fighter is giving an inch! These two are evenly matched¡ªit¡¯s a battle of speed, precision, and sheer willpower!" Carlos¡¯s voice carried over the deafening cheers of the crowd.


    The fighters paused for a split second, circling each other like wolves, their heavy breaths visible in the cold air. Travis wiped a trickle of blood from the corner of his mouth and grinned.


    "Ready for round two?" he asked, his voice low and challenging.


    Adrian''s smirk returned. "I was about to ask you the same thing."


    They launched at each other simultaneously, fists and kicks flying in a blur of motion too fast for the untrained eye to follow. Each strike was met with a block, counter, or deflection, the sound of flesh meeting flesh echoing like a drumbeat.


    "This is it, folks! They¡¯re going all out now! No hesitation, no holding back¡ªthis is what real combat looks like!" Carlos roared.


    Travis suddenly halted his assault, standing firm as Adrian unleashed a flurry of punches. His body moved effortlessly, weaving left and right with precision. Each strike missed by fractions of an inch, his movements fluid and relaxed, as though the fight had become a dance he¡¯d already mastered.


    Carlos¡¯s voice boomed through the arena. ¡°What¡¯s this?! Travis isn¡¯t even trying now! Look at him¡ªdodging Adrian¡¯s attacks like it¡¯s child¡¯s play! Can anyone believe this?!¡±


    Without warning, Travis leaped back, landing gracefully with a soft thud. He straightened, the faintest smirk playing at his lips.


    ¡®Alright, I¡¯ve had my fun. Time to end this.¡¯ His thought carried a calm finality as his body shifted subtly, readying for a decisive move.


    The mana in his legs stirred violently, glowing faintly beneath his skin as it surged through him. The air around him shimmered slightly, heat waves rising from his feet as energy built up.


    Carlos shouted, his voice tinged with both confusion and excitement. ¡°What¡¯s happening now? Travis¡¯s entire stance has changed! And¡­is that mana coursing through his body? Folks, something big is coming!¡±


    In the next instant, Travis¡¯s figure vanished. A shockwave rippled through the arena floor as he propelled himself forward, moving so fast he became nothing but a blur.


    Adrian¡¯s eyes widened in alarm, but it was already too late.


    Thwack!


    The sound was sharp and brutal, echoing like a gunshot. Travis¡¯s kick landed cleanly across Adrian¡¯s face, the sheer force lifting him off the ground. Adrian¡¯s body flew backward, spinning uncontrollably through the air before slamming into the arena wall with a deafening crash.


    The crowd erupted in gasps and cheers. Dust and debris fell from the wall, forming a cloud around Adrian¡¯s crumpled figure.


    ¡°Unbelievable! Did you see that?!¡± Carlos shouted, his excitement palpable. ¡°One second, Travis was standing there, and the next¡ªBam!¡ªAdrian is sent flying across the arena! That kick was faster than the eye could follow!¡±


    Travis landed softly on the ground, barely out of breath. His expression remained calm, but a faint smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.


    He flexed his legs experimentally, feeling the lingering hum of mana still coursing through them. ¡®Even without fully tapping into this skill¡¯s power, I¡¯m still faster than him,¡¯ he thought, his confidence unshaken.


    Carlos¡¯s commentary continued to fill the air. ¡°Ladies and gentlemen, we¡¯re witnessing a masterclass in speed and precision! But just how much power is Travis holding back?!¡±


    Travis¡¯s gaze flicked toward Adrian, who was slowly pulling himself out of the rubble, coughing and groaning from the impact. ¡®During this fight, I¡¯ve been using my speed only to dodge, testing our differences. Even when he used that Blitz skill of his, his movements were clear as day to me.¡¯


    He adjusted his stance, his focus unwavering. ¡®This fight was over before it even began.¡¯


    Adrian staggered to his feet, wiping blood from the corner of his mouth as he glared at Travis. His legs trembled slightly, but he steadied himself, refusing to go down easily.


    Carlos¡¯s voice rang out again. ¡°And Adrian¡¯s back on his feet! But for how long? Can he possibly come back from this, or is Travis simply too far ahead?¡±


    Travis smirked, his eyes narrowing. The fight wasn¡¯t over, but to him, the outcome was already decided.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 4

    Adrian staggered to his feet, his chest heaving as he brushed the dust and debris from his shoulders. His lips curled into a snarl, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. His glare locked onto Travis, who stood calm and composed, hands loosely at his sides, as though the fight had been nothing more than a warm-up.


    "You think this is funny?" Adrian growled, his voice shaking with fury. "You¡¯ve been toying with me this whole time, haven¡¯t you?! You arrogant bastard!"


    Travis tilted his head slightly, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. ¡°Figured it out, huh?¡± His tone was cool, almost dismissive.


    Adrian clenched his fists, his knuckles cracking audibly. The mana around him surged, his body radiating a fiery energy that made the air hum with intensity. ¡°I¡¯ll show you who you¡¯re messing with!¡± he roared, dashing forward with blinding speed.


    Carlos¡¯s voice boomed through the arena. ¡°Oh, Adrian¡¯s furious now! He¡¯s charging back in with everything he¡¯s got! Can he turn this around?!¡±


    Adrian¡¯s fists flew in a relentless barrage, each punch aimed to land a decisive blow.


    Thwack-thud-thwack!


    The sounds of his strikes echoed, but none connected. Travis moved effortlessly, sidestepping and weaving through the assault like a phantom, his expression unchanging.


    ¡°Is that all you¡¯ve got?¡± Travis asked, his voice carrying over Adrian¡¯s ragged breaths.


    Enraged, Adrian pivoted and launched a powerful spinning kick toward Travis¡¯s head, his leg slicing through the air like a blade.


    But Travis was already gone.


    In an instant, Travis reappeared behind Adrian, his leg already in motion. The kick came fast, precise, and brutal, slamming into the side of Adrian¡¯s face with devastating force.


    BOOM!


    The impact sent Adrian hurtling through the air like a ragdoll, his body spinning uncontrollably before crashing into the arena wall with a thunderous crack. The stone crumbled beneath him, dust and debris exploding outward as the wall gave way.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    Carlos¡¯s voice was nearly drowned out by the crowd¡¯s collective gasp. ¡°Unreal! Travis just took Adrian out with a single strike! That kick¡ªoh, you could feel it in your soul, folks! Adrian¡¯s down again, and this time, it¡¯s looking like he¡¯s not getting back up!¡±


    Travis lowered his leg, exhaling calmly as he watched Adrian slump to the ground, motionless. He turned away, already walking toward the center of the arena, his hands slipping casually into his pockets.


    ¡°Maybe next time, don¡¯t waste my time,¡± he said, his voice low but cutting.


    The crowd erupted into cheers and gasps, the sheer dominance of Travis¡¯s performance leaving everyone in awe.


    The fight was over, and it had never been a contest. Travis turned from the arena, his footsteps steady as he headed toward the tunnel. The roaring crowd behind him grew muffled with every step, replaced by the quiet hum of his own thoughts. He passed through the dimly lit corridors, the stone walls cold and unwelcoming. Finally, he reached the small training room where he¡¯d prepared before the match.


    Sinking onto the splintered wooden bench, Travis let out a long, measured breath. Sweat still clung to his skin, but his body felt steady, almost unnaturally calm.


    ¡®For someone who doesn¡¯t know a thing about fighting, I think I held my own.¡¯ A small, amused smirk tugged at his lips as he leaned back, rolling his shoulders to work out the tension. ¡®Maybe I should learn a new skill. But then again, that might just be overkill.¡¯


    He stood, stretching briefly before making his way toward the narrow hallway leading to his cell. His thoughts were interrupted when Svelte appeared seemingly out of nowhere, his presence quiet but commanding.


    Travis barely blinked at the man¡¯s sudden appearance. Somehow, he¡¯d known Svelte would be waiting for him.


    ¡°Well done, Travis,¡± Svelte said, his tone smooth and vaguely condescending. ¡°I¡¯m impressed. That performance cleared a third of your debt. As a reward, we¡¯ll be upgrading your quarters. Please, follow me.¡±


    Svelte turned, not waiting for a response.


    As they walked through the labyrinthine tunnels, Travis kept a cautious eye on the man. There was something about Svelte that set him on edge, an intangible aura that made his instincts hum. It wasn¡¯t fear¡ªno, it was something deeper. An unshakable awareness that Svelte was someone to be wary of.


    Still, he shrugged the feeling off. It wasn¡¯t like he had a choice in the matter.


    After a few minutes, they arrived at a small but clean room. Svelte gestured toward the door with a flourish. ¡°Here it is. I trust you¡¯ll find it a marked improvement over your previous accommodations.¡±


    Travis stepped inside, glancing around. The room was simple¡ªa single bed pushed against the far wall, a modest table with a chair, and a small storage chest at the foot of the bed. The stone walls were still rough and unpainted, but it felt like a palace compared to the cramped, filthy cell he¡¯d been living in.


    Svelte watched him for a moment before adding, ¡°I hope you enjoy your rest, Travis. Tomorrow¡¯s challenge will be¡­ a bit stronger than the average gladiator.¡±


    Without another word, Svelte turned and disappeared down the hallway, his footsteps fading into the distance.


    Travis closed the door, locking out the lingering unease Svelte left behind. He turned his attention to the table and noticed a book resting on its surface. His brow furrowed briefly before recognition set in¡ªit was the same book Xavier had given him.


    He picked it up, thumbing through the worn pages. The techniques were illustrated with precision, each movement broken down into steps that made even the most advanced maneuvers seem almost achievable.


    ¡®Won¡¯t hurt to read up on a few techniques,¡¯ he thought, sinking onto the bed as he began flipping through the pages. ¡®Not that I¡¯ll need them just yet.¡¯


    The room was silent save for the faint rustle of pages turning, but for the first time in what felt like weeks, Travis allowed himself a moment of peace.


    At the board room, Svelte appeared inside and sat down with all the members.


    " That was a certainly great fight, it was never even close. I think your new warrior will be great for the coliseum Svelte " A man said.


    " Why thank you. Now let''s talk about tomorrow fight and his next challenge. His name is Damian Kane or more know as Skull Breaker. What''s are your predictions for tomorrow''s fight?"


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 5

    Damian Kane, better known as The Skull Breaker, lived up to his fearsome title. His name reverberated throughout the coliseum, whispered with awe and terror by fans who marveled at his brutal matches. In every fight, without exception, he shattered his opponents'' skulls, an act that had become his signature. Out of 200 matches, he had claimed victory in 180 and tasted defeat in only 20¡ªa near-legendary record for someone who started his career in captivity.


    Originally, Damian had been imprisoned for annihilating an entire team of powerful Adventurers, a crime that earned him both infamy and a spot in the coliseum. After just a handful of matches, he''d amassed enough wealth to buy his freedom. But the thrill of combat and the deafening cheers of the crowd proved irresistible. He chose to stay, making the coliseum his home and his life''s work.


    Now, he resided in the upper floors, the most luxurious quarters reserved for champions. Currently, Damian lay sprawled across a massive bed, surrounded by five women whose laughter and soft whispers faded into the background as his mind wandered. He stared at the ceiling, a sly smirk creeping onto his lips. The thought of tomorrow¡¯s match filled him with excitement. As a born fighter, Damian had already dissected Travis''s style, noticing the rookie''s predictable moves during practice rounds. He relished the challenge, his bloodlust rising at the thought of the carnage to come.


    Pushing himself up, Damian slid out of bed, his muscular frame catching the dim candlelight. He crossed the room to a table and poured himself a drink, the dark liquid sloshing in the glass. He drained it in one gulp, the burn down his throat invigorating him. Shrugging on a black silk robe, he strode toward the balcony.


    The view from his quarters was unparalleled¡ªan unobstructed panorama of the grand coliseum below. The arena floor, scarred and stained with the remnants of countless battles, seemed to call to him. A savage grin spread across his face, wider and more sinister than before.


    "I can¡¯t wait to crush that puny brat¡¯s skull,¡± he muttered under his breath, his voice low and menacing, as he gripped the balcony rail.


    ---


    Meanwhile, Travis reclined on a simple cot in his modest quarters, a worn manual clutched in his hands. The book was sparse¡ªten techniques in total¡ªbut its value lay in its purpose: not to teach rigid moves but to unlock potential, guiding the reader to grow faster, stronger, and more adaptable.


    The techniques were unique, each bearing names that hinted at their transformative power: Blinding Step, Pain Catalyst, Reflex, Adapt, Forge, Absorb, Shift, and Cut. Most were passive abilities, designed to enhance natural instincts rather than be consciously triggered. Travis¡¯s current focus was on two: Adapt and Pain Catalyst. Both intrigued him for their potential but felt enigmatic, more like innate traits than skills to be learned.


    Sitting upright, he stared at the page in deep thought. ¡°How do I even learn these?¡± he mused. ¡°They¡¯re not techniques in the traditional sense. Could they be spells?¡±


    With a mixture of hope and determination, Travis decided to test his theory. He infused his words with mana¡ªa strange sensation, as though his tongue carried the weight of magic itself.


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    "Adapt," he said, his voice steady.


    For a moment, nothing happened. His heart sank in disappointment until he thought to check his status. His eyes widened as he noticed a new category under his stats:


    [Innate Abilities]


    ¨C Adapt


    ¡°What the hell does ¡®innate¡¯ mean?¡± he muttered, frowning. ¡°Did I always have this? Maybe that explains why I¡¯ve always grown stronger after fights. But I thought everyone did that¡­¡±


    Despite the lack of a description for the skill, the implications were clear. A grin tugged at his lips as the realization struck him. ¡°I¡¯m pretty much Broly now,¡± he thought, chuckling to himself.


    Encouraged, he repeated the process for Pain Catalyst, watching it appear alongside Adapt under his Innate Abilities. While the concept unnerved him¡ªa power tied to enduring pain¡ªit also excited him. ¡°It¡¯s like my body¡¯s built for this,¡± he thought.


    Satisfied for the night, Travis set the manual aside and lay down. Tomorrow would be monumental. The battle against Damian Kane wasn¡¯t just a match¡ªit was a test of everything he¡¯d learned and everything he¡¯d become. For now, he needed rest.


    .....


    The next day, the coliseum roared with life. Thousands of spectators filled the massive arena, their cheers and chants creating a deafening symphony of anticipation. Flags waved in the stands, and vendors weaved through the aisles selling food and drink, adding to the electric atmosphere. The crowd¡¯s energy was palpable, a storm of excitement brewing for the fight they had been waiting for.


    In his preparation room, Travis sat cross-legged, his eyes closed as he focused on steadying his breathing. His heartbeat was calm, a sharp contrast to the chaos outside. The walls of the room couldn¡¯t muffle the thunderous noise, but Travis paid it no mind. He had a singular focus¡ªDamian Kane. His opponent''s towering reputation and terrifying strength were irrelevant now.


    Rising to his feet, Travis exhaled deeply. Through the walls, he could sense the sheer number of people watching, the vibrations of their anticipation pressing against him like a tidal wave. He tightened his fists, his resolve hardening.


    "Okay, let¡¯s do this shit," he muttered to himself, his voice low but firm.


    He stepped into the dimly lit corridor leading to the arena, each step echoing ominously. The path was lined with torches, their flickering flames casting shadows that danced across the stone walls. The muffled roar of the crowd grew louder with every step, and by the time he reached the gates, it was deafening.


    ---


    In the arena, Carlos, the flamboyant announcer, stood in the center of the bloodstained sands. Dressed in a bright red suit with gold trim, he held a microphone in one hand and gestured dramatically with the other.


    "Ladies and gentlemen!" Carlos began, his voice booming over the crowd. "Welcome to day two of the tournament! Today¡¯s match promises to be one for the history books. In one corner, we have a rising star, a man with raw potential and unyielding determination¡ªTRAVIS!¡±


    The crowd erupted into cheers, though their enthusiasm was tinged with curiosity.


    "And in the other corner," Carlos continued, his tone darkening for effect, "we have a man whose name alone strikes fear into the hearts of fighters across the land. You know him. You fear him. The one and only... DAMIAN KANE, also known as THE SKULL BREAKER!"


    The gates on the opposite side of the arena groaned open, and Damian Kane stepped out. The crowd¡¯s reaction was thunderous, a mix of cheers and jeers. Damian basked in the attention, his smirk widening as he raised a hand to acknowledge them.


    Standing at an imposing 6¡¯4", Damian was a mountain of muscle. His shaved head glistened under the midday sun, and his sharp, chiseled features gave him the appearance of a battle-hardened warlord. Clad in only a pair of black shorts, his body was a map of scars, each one telling a story of survival and dominance.


    Damian sauntered to his position with the confidence of a predator sizing up his prey, his eyes scanning the opposite gate. He crossed his arms, waiting, his smirk never faltering.


    When Carlos called for Travis, the gate creaked open once more. Travis emerged, his stride steady and purposeful. His eyes locked onto Damian¡¯s without hesitation, the intensity in his gaze cutting through the cacophony around them. The crowd fell into a hushed murmur, sensing the tension between the two fighters.


    The air around the arena grew heavy, an almost tangible pressure radiating from the two combatants. Even Carlos, known for his composure, wiped a bead of sweat from his brow as he retreated to his podium.


    ¡°Well, folks,¡± Carlos said, his voice cracking slightly, ¡°it¡¯s time for me to get to my place.¡± With an awkward laugh, he leaped onto the raised platform, casting a wary glance at the fighters below.


    ''What¡¯s up with these two? ''he thought, dabbing his face with a handkerchief.


    The crowd quieted as Carlos raised his hand, signaling the start of the match. "And now, the moment you¡¯ve all been waiting for! Let¡¯s begin with a countdown! Three¡­ two¡­ one¡­ FIGHT!"


    The coliseum exploded into cheers as Damian and Travis stepped forward, the space between them charged with unspoken violence.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 6

    Damian sprinted toward Travis, his hulking frame moving with an agility that defied his massive size. The ground seemed to quake beneath his feet as the crowd roared in anticipation. Travis dropped into a defensive stance, his muscles coiled like a spring, ready to react. His opponent¡¯s smirk, however, gave him pause.


    Mid-run, Damian came to an abrupt halt, his boots skidding against the sand, creating a brief cloud of dust. He spread his arms wide, leaving himself wide open. The gesture was so unexpected that Travis hesitated, his focus momentarily wavering. The crowd erupted into a frenzy, their voices a rising wave of excitement.


    ¡°What¡¯s he up to?¡± Travis muttered under his breath, narrowing his eyes.


    Damian¡¯s smirk widened, and in an instant, he brought his arms forward with devastating speed. His palms collided with a thunderous clap as he bellowed, ¡°THUNDER CLAP!¡±


    The moment his hands connected, a deafening boom tore through the air. The sheer force of the shockwave blasted toward Travis at an unimaginable speed. The winds howled like a hurricane, carrying the full brunt of Damian¡¯s power. Travis barely had time to brace himself before the invisible force struck him like a freight train.


    BOOM!


    The impact sent him hurtling backward like a ragdoll, his body slamming into the arena¡¯s stone wall with a sickening crunch. Dust and debris exploded outward, momentarily obscuring him from view. He collapsed face-first onto the ground, the gritty texture of the arena floor grinding against his skin as pain shot through his back.


    From the announcers podium, Carlos threw his head back and laughed, his voice echoing across the coliseum. ¡°Hahahaha! That¡¯s how you do it, folks! Damian¡¯s world-famous Thunder Clap just sent Travis flying into the wall! Is this the end of the fight?¡±


    The crowd roared in approval, their cheers thunderous as they awaited the referee¡¯s call.


    For a moment, Travis didn¡¯t move, his body wracked with pain. He lay there, the coarse sand sticking to his face as he clenched his teeth. But his eyes burned with resolve. Slowly, he began to push himself up, his muscles screaming in protest.


    Blood trickled from the corner of his mouth, but he ignored it. A wry smile crept onto his face as he thought, '' Genuinely speaking, that¡¯s still better than anything I went through in that forest.''


    Damian¡¯s laughter faltered as Travis rose to his feet, his silhouette emerging from the settling dust like a specter.


    ¡°Oh, he stands! The fight is far from over!¡± Carlos exclaimed from his podium, the crowd erupting into a mix of disbelief and exhilaration.


    Travis locked eyes with Damian, his gaze unwavering. ¡°Your move,¡± he said under his breath, though the words weren¡¯t meant for anyone else.


    Then, without warning, Travis vanished. One moment he was standing still, and the next, he appeared directly in front of Damian, his arm cocked back and ready to strike. The movement was so fast that Damian¡¯s smirk turned into a grimace of confusion just before the punch connected.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    WHAM!


    Travis¡¯s fist slammed into Damian¡¯s abdomen with bone-crushing force, the shockwave rippling outward. Damian¡¯s eyes widened, his expression contorted in pain as his massive frame was lifted off the ground and sent flying across the arena like a cannonball.


    BOOM!


    He crashed into the wall with such force that it crumbled under him, leaving a jagged hole in its wake. The arena trembled from the impact, dust and rubble cascading down. The crowd gasped in shock, their cheers momentarily replaced with stunned silence.


    But before Travis could process his victory, the wall behind Damian shimmered with an otherworldly light. The damage repaired itself in an instant, the stones knitting back together as if nothing had happened.


    ¡°What the¡ª¡± Travis muttered, momentarily stunned as he glanced at his fist, the tingling sensation of the impact still fresh.


    Then, his lips curled into a grin. ¡°That felt good,¡± he thought, rolling his shoulders as the crowd erupted into renewed cheers, their excitement reaching a fever pitch.


    ¡°Wow! Travis punched the brakes off Damian! This fight is getting better by the second!¡± Carlos roared into the microphone, the crowd exploding into cheers and shouts of disbelief.


    Travis stood still, his chest heaving as he took a deep breath. Amid the adrenaline coursing through his veins, he noticed something else¡ªhis pain was fading, his body felt lighter, sharper. The dull ache in his back dissipated, replaced by an electric surge of vitality. He smirked, understanding exactly what was happening.


    '' Pain Catalyst,'' he thought. '' This is it. I¡¯m getting stronger.''


    On the other side of the arena, Damian rose to his feet, his imposing figure emerging from the rubble like a demon from the depths. Dust clung to his muscular frame, but he wiped it off with a casual swipe of his hand. The smirk that had adorned his face earlier was gone, replaced by a cold, calculating glare.


    "Alright, kid," Damian growled, his voice carrying a venomous edge. "Playtime¡¯s over."


    The air around him shifted as small arcs of lightning began to crackle across his body. The faint hum of static grew louder, and the crowd gasped as sparks danced around his massive form. Each step forward sent a jolt of power rippling through the ground, the air growing thick with energy.


    Before Travis could react, Damian vanished, moving faster than the eye could follow. In a flash, he reappeared directly in front of Travis, his massive hand seizing Travis¡¯s head in a crushing grip and lifting him off the ground.


    ¡°You know, kid,¡± Damian said, his tone mockingly calm as lightning bolts flickered across his arms, ¡°they say lightning doesn¡¯t strike the same place twice. Good thing I¡¯m not lightning.¡±


    Without warning, Damian¡¯s fist slammed into Travis¡¯s gut with brutal force. The punch drove every ounce of air from Travis¡¯s lungs, leaving him gasping silently, his body convulsing in shock. Damian didn¡¯t stop. Punch after punch rained down, each one a hammer blow that rattled Travis¡¯s insides. His vision blurred, and the world around him became a haze of pain and disorientation.


    CRACK!


    The sickening sound of bone giving way echoed through the arena as Damian tightened his grip on Travis¡¯s skull. With one final squeeze, he tossed Travis to the ground like a broken toy.


    Travis hit the sand with a lifeless thud, his body limp and blood seeping from his mouth. He winced, his hands twitching weakly as he struggled to move.


    Damian loomed over him, a titan of power and dominance. ¡°You¡¯re not that fast, kid. You¡¯re not even that strong,¡± he said, his voice cold and dismissive. ¡°In this world, there are people who can kill you before you even think. Threats that could wipe this whole arena out with a single spell.¡±


    He turned his back on Travis, the sparks of lightning around him beginning to fade.


    ¡°Go back to your cage and get stronger. Then, maybe you¡¯ll be worth my time.¡± Without another glance, he walked away, the crowd unsure whether to cheer or remain silent.


    Carlos hesitated, wiping sweat from his brow as he raised the microphone.


    ¡°Damian has ended the fight! Travis loses!¡± he announced, though his voice lacked the usual enthusiasm.


    ---


    Travis lay motionless, his breath shallow. His entire body screamed in agony, but amidst the pain, he felt something stir deep within him¡ªa spark, faint but persistent.


    '' Fuck, I can''t quit here. I need to get my revenge. I have to kill them. I have to kill them all!!! '' he thought.


    His mind raced with flashes of his past¡ªthe battles he¡¯d fought, the hardships he¡¯d endured, the promises he¡¯d made to himself. He had survived too much to let it end here.


    Suddenly, the faint spark within him erupted into a blaze. His blood burned, and his muscles twitched violently as something inside him awakened. His abilities¡ªPain Catalyst and Adapt¡ªwere working in overdrive, transforming every ounce of pain into raw strength.


    '' No, '' he thought, his fingers curling into fists as his body trembled.'' I¡¯m not done yet. I refuse to lose.''


    The crowd gasped as Travis¡¯s body began to shift. His aura flared faintly, a visible ripple of energy surrounding him. His injuries started to feel distant, his vision sharpening. Travis clenched his jaw, pushing himself onto his hands and knees. Blood dripped from his mouth, but he didn¡¯t stop. He wouldn¡¯t stop.


    From the stands, Damian paused, his eyes narrowing as he sensed the change. The kid wasn¡¯t staying down.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 7

    Carlos stood frozen, his mouth hanging open as he watched Travis rise, blood-red energy swirling around him like a living entity. The crowd roared in disbelief and awe, their voices blending into a chaotic cacophony that echoed throughout the coliseum. Snapping out of his stupor, Carlos gripped the microphone tightly, knowing he had to say something.


    ¡°Travis is up! The fight is far from over!¡± he bellowed, his voice trembling with excitement.


    Damian, who had been halfway up the stairs leading out of the arena, stopped in his tracks. A grin spread across his face as he turned, his boots crunching against the sand. Without hesitation, he leaped from the stairs back into the arena. His landing sent shockwaves through the ground, cracks spiderwebbing across the stone floor beneath him.


    ¡°Well, kid,¡± Damian said, his tone amused but laced with menace. ¡°Didn¡¯t think you had that in you. Aura? Didn¡¯t expect a kid like you to pull that off.¡± His smirk widened as arcs of lightning began to dance across his body, their sharp cracks filling the air. ¡°But whatever. If you want round two, let¡¯s begin.¡±


    Travis stood firm, his newfound power radiating from him in waves. The blood-red energy covering his body shimmered like molten lava, its intensity increasing with every breath he took. The blood on his lips evaporated into the air as his injuries healed in an instant. His body no longer ached; instead, it thrummed with raw, unrelenting energy.


    '' Plot armor? '' he thought with a wry grin. '' I¡¯ll take it.''


    Dropping back into his stance, Travis met Damian¡¯s gaze, his determination blazing like fire. The two combatants locked eyes, the air between them charged with a tension so palpable that even the rowdiest of the crowd fell silent.


    ---


    High above, in the private viewing area reserved for the coliseum¡¯s elite, the board members watched with rapt attention.


    One man leaned forward, his sharp, hawkish features illuminated by the glow of the arena lights. ¡°So this is the boy you mentioned, Svelte,¡± he said, his voice calm but tinged with intrigue. ¡°A true gift from the heavens, indeed.¡±


    Svelte, a refined man in a crisp suit, smirked as he swirled the wine in his glass. His eyes never left Travis. ¡°I told you,¡± he replied, his tone filled with quiet confidence. ¡°He¡¯s special. More than you realize.¡±


    The hawkish man stroked his chin thoughtfully. ¡°I see it now. The way he rose from the brink, the way his aura flared to life... That¡¯s not something you see every day.¡±


    Svelte chuckled. ¡°No, it¡¯s not. But keep watching. The real show has only just begun.¡±


    ---


    Back in the arena, the tension reached a breaking point as Damian¡¯s lightning-covered form and Travis¡¯s blood-red energy clashed in an unspoken promise of destruction. The crowd erupted into a frenzy, their cheers shaking the coliseum to its core.


    ¡°Ready, kid?¡± Damian growled, his muscles tensing as the lightning around him surged.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    Travis smirked, his aura flaring brighter. ¡°Bring it.¡±


    The crowd held its breath as Damian and Travis stood motionless, their energies crackling like opposing storms. Damian¡¯s lightning bolts snapped and sizzled around him, illuminating his towering form in bursts of white-blue light. Travis¡¯s blood-red aura writhed like living fire, distorting the air around him.


    Then, they moved.


    In a blink, Damian vanished, the ground where he had been standing erupting into a crater. Travis countered just as quickly, his instincts guiding him as he sidestepped. Damian¡¯s fist whistled past his head, the sheer force of the missed punch splitting the air with a deafening crack.


    Travis retaliated immediately, his own fist striking out toward Damian¡¯s chest. But Damian twisted his body with impossible agility, letting the blow glance off his side as he grinned.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got speed, kid,¡± Damian said, his voice a low growl, ¡°but not enough.¡±


    Before Travis could respond, Damian¡¯s leg shot out in a blur. The kick connected with Travis¡¯s side, sending him skidding across the arena floor. Sand and stone sprayed into the air as Travis flipped mid-slide, landing on his feet with a grimace.


    Damian didn¡¯t let up. He reappeared in front of Travis in an instant, his hands crackling with electricity. Travis barely managed to cross his arms in defense before Damian¡¯s palms slammed into him.


    BOOM!


    The shockwave rippled outward, shaking the coliseum to its foundation. Travis was hurled backward, his body carving a trench into the ground as he slid to a halt. He coughed, steam rising from his arms as his aura flared brighter, compensating for the blow.


    ¡°I¡¯m not done yet,¡± Travis muttered, wiping blood from his mouth.


    He vanished.


    This time, Damian¡¯s grin faltered as Travis appeared behind him. A brutal punch drove into Damian¡¯s back, the force of it reverberating through his body. Damian stumbled forward, his feet digging into the ground to regain balance.


    ¡°Not bad, kid,¡± Damian admitted, turning around. His hand shot out, catching Travis mid-attack by the wrist. ¡°But I¡¯ve seen better.¡±


    With a roar, Damian swung Travis over his head and slammed him into the ground. The impact cratered the arena floor, sending debris flying. But Travis¡¯s aura surged, and with a burst of speed, he escaped Damian¡¯s grip, flipping back onto his feet.


    The two fighters clashed again, their movements a blur of light and sound. Each punch and kick was faster than the crowd could follow, their strikes sending shockwaves rippling through the air.


    Damian had the edge.


    Every exchange, every move, he was just a fraction faster, a hair stronger. Travis¡¯s blows landed, but they lacked the weight Damian¡¯s carried. When Damian struck, it felt like a mountain collapsing; when Travis struck, it was a storm trying to tear down a fortress.


    ¡°You¡¯re strong, kid,¡± Damian said as their fists collided, the impact sending sparks flying. ¡°But strength isn¡¯t enough.¡±


    Travis growled, his aura flaring wildly. He spun into a low kick aimed at Damian¡¯s legs, but Damian leaped over it effortlessly, bringing his knee down toward Travis¡¯s head. Travis raised his arms in a desperate block, and the ground beneath him cracked from the force.


    Damian¡¯s lightning surged, covering the entire arena in a blinding flash. When it cleared, Travis was on one knee, panting heavily. Damian stood over him, his grin wide and triumphant.


    ¡°Keep up, kid,¡± Damian taunted.


    What Damian didn¡¯t know was that every blow he landed on Travis fueled a transformation. Each strike that should have left Travis broken only strengthened him. Travis could feel it now¡ªhis body adapting, his power surging. The pain, once a burden, now felt like a catalyst. He smirked, his blood-red aura flaring even brighter, crackling against Damian¡¯s own electric storm.


    Damian narrowed his eyes, sensing the shift but dismissing it with a scoff. ¡°You¡¯re like a cockroach,¡± he growled. ¡°But this ends now.¡±


    He stretched out his arm, lightning coalescing into a dense sphere in his palm. The energy hissed and crackled violently, the air around it distorting with sheer power.


    ¡°This is it, kid,¡± Damian said, his voice echoing with an unnatural resonance as he infused the spell with Mana. ¡°Volt Sphere.¡±


    With a thunderous roar, Damian launched the ball of lightning. It tore through the air, leaving a blinding streak of light in its wake. The crowd gasped, unable to follow its trajectory.


    But just as the spell was about to connect, Travis disappeared.


    The Volt Sphere slammed into the arena floor, detonating with an ear-shattering explosion.


    BOOM!


    The ground shook violently, a massive crater forming where Travis had once stood. Dust and debris filled the air, obscuring everything in a smoky haze. The crowd screamed in awe and terror, the sheer force of the attack leaving many breathless.


    Damian stood still, his chest heaving as he lowered his arm. The static in the air began to settle, and the dust started to clear. His smirk returned as he stared at the destruction he¡¯d wrought.


    But then, his grin faltered.


    Through the haze, a figure emerged, standing tall and unyielding. Damian¡¯s eyes widened as Travis appeared to his side, untouched, his blood-red aura pulsing stronger than ever.


    Travis¡¯s eyes burned with determination as he locked his gaze on Damian. His voice was low and unwavering, cutting through the fading echoes of the explosion.


    ¡°It¡¯s not over until I win.¡±


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Tournament Part 8

    What Travis hadn¡¯t told anyone¡ªwhat he hadn¡¯t even fully understood himself¡ªwas that he hadn¡¯t come close to unlocking the full potential of Blinding Step. During his time in the cell, while pushing his body and mind to the limit, he discovered a new version of the technique, a form that was far more versatile, far more destructive. He had named it Blinding Flash.


    It wasn¡¯t just a speed boost. Blinding Flash broke through every barrier of speed, shattering the limits of what was thought possible. In a fraction of a millisecond, he could cross the distance between himself and his opponent, faster than even light could blink. Faster than anything Blinding Step had ever achieved.


    But with this incredible power came a devastating price. Travis¡¯s body, no matter how strong he¡¯d become, wasn¡¯t built for such insane velocity. Every time he used it, his muscles tore, his bones cracked under the force, and his organs threatened to fail. The pain was excruciating, a punishment that would leave him broken if he wasn¡¯t careful. But, through sheer determination and the power of his mana, he could push his body past its limits. Adapt was the key¡ªby using it on overdrive, his body healed with a speed that barely kept up with the damage.


    It wasn¡¯t a power he¡¯d ever thought he¡¯d need. But now, staring down Damian, he realized there was no other choice. He had to end this. Fast.


    With a sharp inhale, his blood-red aura exploded outward, pulsing with raw energy. His muscles tensed, readying for the unbearable strain he was about to place on them. The arena seemed to hold its breath as Travis gathered every ounce of power into his body, focusing it into a single strike.


    "I¡¯ll end this in one punch."


    Damian smirked, clearly amused by Travis¡¯s confidence. He opened his mouth to taunt, but before a single word escaped, Travis¡¯s fist was already hurtling toward him.


    Damian barely had time to react as Travis closed the gap in a blink. There was no sound, no warning, just the brutal force of Travis¡¯s punch slamming into Damian¡¯s face. The strike hit with the power of a freight train, the air vibrating with the sheer force of the impact.


    Damian¡¯s body was thrown back, moving so fast that it was as if he had been blown through the arena. He crashed into the wall with a devastating BOOM, not just hitting it¡ªbut passing through it, his body leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    BOOM!


    The crowd was still processing what had happened when the dust from the explosion started to settle. The air hung thick with the aftermath of the collision, and for a brief moment, they saw Travis standing amidst the chaos. His body was slumped, every part of him aching as if it had been torn apart. The pain was overwhelming, sharp like a thousand needles cutting through his flesh.


    Travis dropped to the ground, his vision blurring as his aura flickered around him, desperately trying to hold him together. But despite everything, a smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth.


    " I won. ''


    He closed his eyes for a moment, savoring the victory, knowing that for now¡ªhe had done what he came here to do.


    ....


    Travis sat alone in his room, taking a moment to let the events of the fight sink in. His body was sore, but a strange sense of satisfaction settled in his chest. He had won, faster than anyone could have imagined. He smiled to himself, feeling the exhaustion hit him like a wave. His body ached, his mind was heavy, but he couldn''t fight the pull of sleep. As soon as his head hit the pillow, he passed out instantly, sinking into a deep, untroubled slumber.


    Meanwhile, Damian was being taken to the infirmary, his body battered and broken from Travis''s brutal strike. He lay on the bed, staring up at the sterile ceiling, his mind replaying the events of the fight. For all his experience, for all his power, he had been outmatched. Beaten before he even had a chance to react. And yet, despite the pain, a smile tugged at his lips.


    That kid really is something...


    He couldn¡¯t deny it. Travis had proven himself in a way that Damian hadn¡¯t expected, pushing past his limits and then some. Damian''s smile widened as he closed his eyes, already thinking about their next encounter. He would be ready.


    Hours later, the knock at Travis''s door stirred him from his sleep. He groggily opened his eyes, rubbed his face, and reluctantly dragged himself out of bed. With a yawn, he made his way to the door, opening it to see Svelte standing in the doorway, holding a tray of food.


    "Here. You deserve it," Svelte said, a rare smile on his face as he handed over the tray.


    Travis took the food and drink, setting it down on the desk without saying much. He eyed Svelte curiously as the man casually walked into the room, sitting down on the bed as if it were his own.


    "What do you want?" Travis asked, his voice flat, barely hiding his irritation.


    Svelte smirked and shrugged. "Well, I''m here to tell you about tomorrow. You¡¯ll be fighting a mage for your final battle. And guess what? Magic is now allowed."


    Travis raised an eyebrow, looking at Svelte as if he had just pulled some kind of joke.


    "I noticed. You didn¡¯t even bother telling me. That was nice of you."


    Svelte¡¯s grin widened. "Yeah, I am pretty nice, aren''t I? Anyway, be prepared, champ. See you tomorrow."


    Without another word, Svelte got up, leaving the room and closing the door behind him. Travis stood there for a moment, staring at the closed door, his expression darkening.


    '' Fuck, I hate it here. I can¡¯t wait to leave this fucking place.'' He thought.


    Sighing, Travis sat down at the desk, ignoring the ache in his body as he began eating the food. The taste was nothing special, but it didn''t matter. His mind was already racing, thinking about the battle ahead. Magic? He wasn¡¯t sure what to expect, but one thing was certain¡ªhe¡¯d have to give everything he had in the final fight.


    Tomorrow was going to be a whole new level.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 A Twist

    The next day¡ªthe final day of Travis¡¯s challenge¡ªhe woke up early, his determination sharper than ever. Today, he was ready to face the Mage. Overnight, he had unlocked a new skill called Absorb, one that might tip the scales in his favor. With that in mind, he got out of bed and splashed cold water on his face. As the droplets trickled down, he caught his reflection in the mirror.


    "If I looked like this before¡­ maybe I wouldn''t have been bullied," he thought, his lips curving into a faint, bitter smile. His once frail frame was now defined, his eyes carrying a newfound intensity. But this wasn''t the time to dwell on the past. He shook his head, slapped his cheeks lightly to snap himself into focus, and gave his reflection a final, resolute nod before leaving the room.


    The hallway leading to the arena was eerily quiet, save for the muffled buzz of the crowd in the distance. As Travis walked, he found his thoughts drifting. How powerful could a Mage really be? He clenched his fists, excitement and uncertainty mingling in his chest. This world still baffled him, its rules and mysteries lurking just beyond his grasp. But that only fueled his resolve¡ªhe would uncover the truth, no matter what it took.


    Suddenly, a strange sensation gripped his stomach. He froze mid-step, clutching at his abdomen. It wasn¡¯t pain, but an unsettling pull, as though something was draining his mana. His breath quickened as he glanced around, but the hallway was empty. Just as quickly as the sensation came, it faded. Shaking it off, he steadied himself and pressed forward. Whatever it was, he couldn¡¯t let it distract him.


    The arena roared to life as Travis stepped onto the battlefield. The cheers from the stands were deafening, and for a brief moment, a grin spread across his face. He waved at the crowd, their energy fueling his confidence. But his focus shifted quickly to his opponent¡ªa man dressed in flowing robes, holding an ornate staff that practically screamed "wizard." With his long hair tied back and an air of practiced calm, the Mage looked like he had walked straight out of a fantasy novel.


    "Alright," Travis muttered under his breath, rolling his shoulders. "Let¡¯s get this over with. I¡¯m not in the mood for theatrics."


    The Mage smirked, raising his staff, and the air around him shimmered faintly with mana. Travis narrowed his eyes, his own energy surging in response. This wasn¡¯t going to be an easy fight, but that was fine. He wasn¡¯t here for easy.


    As the countdown began, an invisible force slammed into Travis like a tidal wave, the sensation ripping through his entire body. It wasn¡¯t just disorienting¡ªit was devastating. His mana felt like it was being siphoned away, drained from every corner of his being. His knees buckled under the pressure, and a cold sweat broke out across his skin.


    His vision blurred as nausea surged, twisting his stomach into knots. He clutched his chest, gasping for air, but the world around him spun uncontrollably. Then, a sharp dizziness overwhelmed him, and he crumpled to the ground.


    Foam began to bubble from his mouth, a stark white against his pale lips. His body convulsed briefly, like a marionette whose strings had been cut, before going eerily still. The roaring crowd fell silent, their cheers morphing into uneasy murmurs.


    The announcer¡¯s voice, once booming with energy, now felt distant, like it was coming from underwater. Each word grew fainter until it dissolved into nothingness. Darkness crept in from the edges of Travis¡¯s vision, swallowing the arena, the Mage, and the world itself.


    ....


    Many hours later, Travis stirred awake in a pitch-black room, the faint metallic clink of chains greeting his ears as he shifted. His head pounded, and his limbs felt leaden. His heart raced as his eyes adjusted to the darkness, revealing the cold, damp walls surrounding him. Looking down, he saw heavy chains binding his wrists and ankles, their links glowing faintly with a strange, pulsing energy.If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    His jaw tightened as he pulled against them, but the harder he struggled, the more the chains constricted, biting into his skin. A searing pain radiated from the restraints, forcing him to stop and catch his breath.


    "Fuck!" he hissed under his breath, slamming his head back against the wall. "Svelte. I knew he¡¯d never let me leave this fucking place."


    As if summoned by his thoughts, a door creaked open, flooding the room with dim, flickering torchlight. Svelte stepped inside, his silhouette framed by the doorway, his smirk dripping with malice. He moved with an unsettling ease, his eyes gleaming as they locked onto Travis.


    ¡°Well, I see you¡¯re awake,¡± Svelte said, his voice oily with amusement. ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ve already figured out why you¡¯re here. You see, I never had any intention of letting you leave. Funny, isn¡¯t it? The very thing that killed your master¡­ is the same thing that¡¯s brought you to your knees.¡±


    He leaned closer, pulling a small, black, writhing sphere from his pocket. It pulsed in his hand, shifting like it was alive. Travis¡¯s stomach turned as the object moved unnaturally, its surface slick and leech-like. Svelte held it mere inches from Travis¡¯s face, watching him flinch.


    ¡°This,¡± Svelte said, his grin widening, ¡°is a Mana Sucker. My new favorite tool for breaking even the strongest. It¡¯s ingenious, really. It¡¯s trying to burrow into you, to drain you dry, but I¡¯ll spare you the agony¡­ for now.¡± He chuckled, pulling the sphere away as it wiggled with a hunger that made Travis¡¯s skin crawl.


    ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m impressed you didn¡¯t go down sooner,¡± Svelte continued, pacing slowly. ¡°Tough-headed, just like your dear master, Xavier. He was a real challenge, you know. Too powerful for any of us to fight him head-on. If he¡¯d wanted to, he could¡¯ve left this place with a snap of his fingers. That¡¯s the kind of strength we¡¯re after¡­ and it¡¯s the kind of strength I¡¯ll get from you.¡±


    Svelte crouched in front of Travis, his tone dropping to a sinister whisper. ¡°But unlike Xavier, you¡¯ll obey. I¡¯ve already implanted five Mana Suckers inside you. With one word, they¡¯ll drain every ounce of mana from your body. So, you¡¯ll do exactly as I say¡­ won¡¯t you?¡±


    Travis glared at him, his breathing ragged, but he said nothing. Svelte smirked, straightening up. ¡°Good boy,¡± he said mockingly. ¡°Sit tight. I¡¯ll be back soon¡­ with a brand-new story for you. One where you¡¯ll be the perfect little gladiator.¡± He laughed, the sound echoing cruelly as he turned and walked out, slamming the door behind him.


    The silence that followed was suffocating. Travis stared at the chains, his fists clenching until his nails dug into his palms. Defeat hung heavy over him. The realization was a bitter pill to swallow: there was no escape. Not for him. Not for anyone.


    But deep in the pit of his despair, something stirred¡ªa flicker of defiance that refused to die, no matter how tightly it was chained.


    He then got an idea.


    Travis closed his eyes and steadied his breath, feeling the chains digging into his wrists. He focused on the mana within him, the energy still faint but present. Instead of resisting the Mana Suckers, he decided to do the opposite¡ªpush his mana into them willingly.


    If they¡¯re draining me, they must have a limit, he thought, his brows furrowing in concentration. Let¡¯s find out what happens when they reach it.


    With gritted teeth, he began fluctuating his mana, pumping it into the parasitic Mana Suckers embedded in his body. The sensation was sickening, like pouring his life force into a bottomless pit, but he pressed on. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead, dripping down his face as minutes turned into an agonizing eternity.


    Then, it happened. One by one, he felt them swell beyond capacity, their grip loosening as they reached their breaking point. A sharp, tearing pain ripped through him, followed by a violent lurch in his stomach. He gagged, doubling over as the Mana Suckers shot up his throat.


    With a wet, grotesque sound, he vomited them onto the cold floor. They wriggled weakly, their black, leech-like bodies now lifeless. Travis wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, glaring at the disgusting remnants.


    ¡°Fuck, that¡¯s disgusting,¡± he muttered, staggering to his feet. ¡°Well, time to leave this place.¡±


    Closing his eyes again, he visualized the room he wanted to be in. The memory was hazy, but he clung to it, focusing every ounce of his energy on the image. The sensation of displacement hit him like a gust of wind, and in the blink of an eye, he vanished.


    When he reappeared, Travis stumbled forward, his head spinning. He looked around, taking in the familiar, albeit blurry, surroundings. His lips curled into a smirk.


    ¡°Shift,¡± he muttered, swaying slightly, ¡°is definitely going to be my new favorite skill.¡± But when he glanced down, his smirk faltered. He was completely naked.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I¡¯m definitely not done learning it,¡± he grumbled, quickly scanning the room for something to wear. He found a simple tunic and trousers tossed on a nearby chair, slipping them on hastily before heading for the door.


    Stepping out, Travis squinted at his surroundings. The place was unfamiliar¡ªdimly lit corridors lined with cracked stone walls, the air heavy with dampness and decay. He didn¡¯t recognize it, but it didn¡¯t matter.


    Without hesitation, he broke into a run, his footsteps echoing down the hallways. He didn¡¯t have a plan or a destination¡ªonly the burning desire to get as far away from this cursed place as possible.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 A battle for Freedom Part 1

    The Coliseum was no ordinary structure. It stood as a towering edifice of ivory stone and shadowed metal, pulsating with a rhythm akin to a beating heart. Its archways were jagged teeth, and the great arena within seemed to inhale and exhale, as though the building itself were alive. Those who stepped inside often claimed they felt watched, scrutinized by unseen eyes embedded within the very walls.


    It was said that the Coliseum was born not of stone and mortar but of a singular genius: Kaelthos Alaric, the architect-sorcerer. Known throughout the ages as a craftsman of unparalleled skill and a wielder of forbidden magic, Kaelthos believed creation was a sacred act that could bridge the mortal and divine. The Coliseum was his magnum opus, a project he had dreamt of for decades but completed in a single day¡ªa feat so incomprehensible it bordered on myth.


    Kaelthos'' journals, scattered through the ages, reveal the extent of his ambition. He sought to forge a structure that would serve as the ultimate arbiter of destiny. He envisioned a living monument, a place that could judge combatants not merely by their strength but by the purity of their will, their resilience in the face of despair, and the echoes of their souls. To achieve this, he crafted the Coliseum not from ordinary materials but from elements both physical and arcane.


    ....


    As Travis sprinted around and around, the unsettling realization crept in¡ªhe was running in circles. His breaths came in sharp, frustrated bursts, his boots scuffing against the endless stone floor. The most maddening part was that his goal, the exit, was visible through the translucent walls. It taunted him like a cruel mirage, always in sight but just out of reach.


    '' Am I in some kind of trance or something?'' he wondered, narrowing his eyes and glancing around.


    The scenery hadn¡¯t changed, yet something about the air felt oppressive, as if the maze itself was alive and toying with him.


    He clenched his fists, jaw tightening. Using his shift was tempting¡ªit would have solved everything in seconds¡ªbut the thought of emerging naked in a potentially hostile environment made him grimace. That option was out. Grinding his teeth, he searched for another solution, his gaze landing on the wall separating him from freedom.


    ¡°Fine,¡± he muttered under his breath. If subtlety wouldn¡¯t work, brute force would.


    Marching up to the wall, Travis planted his feet firmly. He drew back his arm, muscles coiling with power, and unleashed a punch with all his might. A deafening crack echoed through the space as the impact rippled outward. The wall splintered and crumbled into dust, the sight of it crumbling beneath his strength sending a victorious grin across his face.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    But just as he prepared to step through, the smile vanished. The dust swirled unnaturally, reforming in an instant, and the wall was whole again. Worse, when he turned to reassess his surroundings, the space was different. Gone were the familiar hallways he had just traversed. The walls now loomed higher, their textures shifting like a warped kaleidoscope.


    '' What the fuck is happening here? '' he thought, heart pounding in his chest. The maze wasn¡¯t just a trap¡ªit was playing with him.


    Svelte walked back to the room where he had trapped Travis, his boots echoing softly against the stone floor. When he saw the door ajar, his smile widened, the sharpness of his teeth glinting in the dim light. He turned away, his laughter bubbling up like an ominous melody.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t think it¡¯d be that easy to trap him,¡± he muttered to himself, his voice low and dangerous. His gaze flicked to the labyrinthine walls of the Coliseum. ¡°No matter. The Coliseum will ensure he doesn¡¯t get out of here alive¡­ or sane. Depends on its mood.¡±


    ---


    Travis ran through the twisting corridors, his breath ragged and shallow as his heart thundered in his chest. Every turn looked the same, a maddening maze of stone and shadow. He stumbled but kept going, desperation fueling his legs. No matter where he went, the walls seemed to conspire against him, pulling him back to the room where he¡¯d been held captive.


    Panting, he pressed his back against a wall, his eyes darting around the dimly lit passage. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the faint, eerie hum of the Coliseum. His fingers trembled as he steadied himself, forcing his thoughts to calm.


    '' I need to think. I can¡¯t let panic win, '' he told himself, his mind racing for solutions.


    But each idea crumbled as the labyrinth mocked him, twisting and reshaping itself to thwart his every move. Finally, he slid down the wall, resting his head against the cold stone. His breaths grew slower, more measured, as he wrestled with the creeping despair.


    '' Maybe there¡¯s no way out of here, '' he thought, his chest tightening. Just as that hopeless thought took root, the walls began to shimmer, the cold stone morphing into something¡­ familiar.


    His eyes widened as he rose to his feet, drawn toward the shifting path before him. The labyrinth seemed to guide him now, compelling him forward as the world behind him sank into darkness. The shadows whispered, warning him there was no retreat, no second chance.


    Travis stepped into a tunnel, the narrow passage opening into the grand arena. He shielded his eyes against the sudden brightness, his gaze locking on the figure waiting for him across the expanse. Svelte stood tall, a mage¡¯s staff gripped casually in his right hand, his posture exuding smug confidence.


    ¡°I¡¯ve thought of a great idea,¡± Svelte called, his voice carrying a sinister edge. ¡°Why don¡¯t I become your final challenge? Maybe then you¡¯ll finally give up. So here I am.¡± He gestured to a small room that had appeared beside Travis. ¡°There¡¯s a weapons vault next to you. Don¡¯t want you crying later, saying it wasn¡¯t a fair fight.¡±


    Travis glanced to his right, hesitating before stepping toward the vault. Inside, the walls were lined with an array of weapons, each one gleaming with latent power. His hand hovered over them until he settled on a sword, its simple design hiding a formidable aura.


    As he stepped out, the vault vanished, leaving no trace it had ever existed. The weight of the sword felt comforting in his grip, grounding him as his panic ebbed away.


    '' I forgot how much I missed this, '' he thought, his fingers brushing the blade¡¯s edge. Channeling his mana into the sword, he watched flames of aura ripple across the steel, their fiery glow reflecting in his eyes.


    '' So this is what helped me take down the Goblin King. Aura.'' He smiled grimly. ''I really need to understand this power better.''


    Lifting his gaze, he locked eyes with Svelte, who hadn¡¯t moved an inch. The mage¡¯s staff pulsed with a faint, sinister energy, and Travis could feel the air growing heavy with tension.


    This fight wouldn¡¯t be easy. But Travis had no intention of running.


    ¡°If you¡¯re ready,¡± Svelte said, raising his staff with a flourish. ¡°Let us begin.¡±


    TO BE CONTINUED

 A battle for Freedom Part 2

    Travis gripped the sword firmly, positioning it in a stance that felt second nature. The cool steel rested effortlessly in his grasp, its weight balanced perfectly as though it was an extension of his arm. A flood of swordsmanship knowledge surged through his mind like a torrent, each technique and principle sharpening his focus. A faint smile tugged at the corner of his lips. Even stripped of his Innate Abilities, he was a Swordsman to his core. The blade was familiar, almost comforting.


    '' for some reason i cant wait for this fight'' , he mused, his eyes gleaming with quiet determination.


    His gaze locked onto Svelte. The atmosphere grew heavy as a sudden gust of wind howled through the arena, whipping his hair and tugging at his clothes. The air around Svelte shifted, crackling with unseen energy. His eyes began to glow a piercing, unnatural blue, casting an eerie luminescence over his sharp features.


    ¡°This is how an ex-Adventurer battles, Travis!¡± Svelte roared, thrusting his staff forward with purpose. A radiant magical circle flared to life beneath his feet, its intricate single ring shimmering in an intense azure light.


    At the tip of Svelte¡¯s staff, a swirling sphere of water materialized, churning violently as wind currents wove around it, propelling it to spin at blinding speeds. The sheer force of its motion distorted the air, creating an ominous hum that sent a chill down Travis¡¯s spine. He couldn¡¯t decipher what he was witnessing, but his instincts screamed at him¡ªwhatever this was, he had to avoid it at all costs.


    ¡°Aqua Infinity!¡± Svelte declared. The spinning sphere didn¡¯t fire toward Travis as expected. Instead, water cascaded downward from it in torrential streams, flooding the arena in moments. The once solid ground transformed into a vast, rippling surface of water that quickly soaked Travis¡¯s boots.


    His eyes snapped upward, catching sight of Svelte now standing effortlessly on the water¡¯s surface. The sight was jarring, and Travis¡¯s mind raced. He can walk on water? But then inspiration struck, and a confident grin spread across his face. Focusing intently, he coated the soles of his boots with a fine layer of water mana, testing his balance cautiously before fully committing. Within moments, he too stood atop the watery surface, mirroring Svelte¡¯s stance.


    ¡°I feel like Naruto,¡± Travis muttered under his breath, the thought briefly pulling a nostalgic smirk to his face before it twisted into a frown. '' Damn, now I¡¯m thinking about that cringe TikTok girl.''


    The tension in the arena thickened, both men standing poised on the shifting water, ready to strike.


    Svelte planted his staff firmly into the water, the motion deliberate and precise. The staff sank deeper than expected, vanishing almost entirely beneath the surface. Travis raised an eyebrow at the sight, but dismissed it with a shrug, taking a tentative step forward. The water underfoot felt as solid as ground, each step steady and stable. Satisfied, he stopped questioning it.


    Alright, let¡¯s do this, he thought, his grip tightening on the hilt of his sword.


    He shifted into a battle stance, his hands firmly grasping the weapon¡¯s hilt. Focusing his energy, Travis channeled his aura into the blade, causing it to emit a faint red glow that pulsed rhythmically, like a heartbeat. A sly grin crossed his face as he charged forward, each step leaving ripples dancing across the water¡¯s surface. His movements were fluid, his intent razor-sharp. As he approached, Travis leapt high into the air, his glowing blade arcing toward Svelte with deadly precision.


    Svelte smirked, his calm demeanor unshaken by the incoming strike. Travis noticed the confidence etched in his opponent¡¯s face but refused to hesitate. His blade descended, slicing cleanly through Svelte¡¯s body. For a brief moment, satisfaction flickered in Travis¡¯s eyes¡ªuntil he realized there was no resistance. The form before him wavered, then collapsed into a stream of water that merged seamlessly with the pool below.


    ¡°What the fuck?¡± Travis muttered, his grip tightening as he scanned the arena. Across the pool, Svelte reappeared, his stance unwavering and a mischievous grin on his face.


    ¡°My turn!¡± Svelte bellowed, extending his arms dramatically. His hands moved with purpose, as though conducting an unseen symphony. Travis¡¯s eyes darted to the water around him, noticing the rippling surface begin to shift unnaturally. His gaze dropped downward just in time to see the water below him surge upward like a geyser. He sprang to the side, narrowly avoiding the explosion of water.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    The attack didn¡¯t stop. Svelte, like a maestro orchestrating his masterpiece, guided the water to rise and flow with menacing intent. A towering wave formed and rushed toward Travis, its size and speed making escape seem impossible. Without hesitation, Travis broke into a sprint, his feet skimming across the water¡¯s surface as he dodged the incoming torrent. The roar of the wave was deafening, its sheer power palpable.


    When there was no end in sight, Travis skidded to a halt, pivoted, and raised his glowing blade. With a forceful swing, he slashed at the wall of water.


    Shinggg!


    The blade¡¯s energy cut cleanly through the wave, splitting it in two. Water cascaded back into the pool in a thunderous splash, leaving Travis panting from exertion. His sharp gaze darted to where Svelte had stood, only to find him gone.


    ¡°What now?¡± he muttered, scanning the arena.


    A sudden shadow loomed over him, blotting out the light. Travis glanced upward, his breath hitching as he saw a massive sphere of water hovering above him, its weight and size foreboding.


    ¡°Man, that sucks,¡± he thought, gritting his teeth. His grip tightened on his sword as he prepared for whatever came next.


    The massive water ball plummeted toward Travis, crashing into him with a deafening roar.


    Paahhh!


    The force of the impact sent a shockwave rippling through the arena, drenching everything in its vicinity. Submerged in the deluge, Travis held his breath as he swam upward, his body cutting through the water like a blade. Breaking the surface with a gasp, he planted his feet firmly on the water, his aura stabilizing him as he stood tall once more. Droplets cascaded from his drenched figure, but his resolve remained unshaken.


    ¡°You can¡¯t defeat me, Travis. It¡¯s impossible. Give up,¡± Svelte taunted, his voice carrying an air of finality.


    Travis¡¯s eyes narrowed as he caught sight of Svelte raising his hand, the motion precise and commanding. From the flooded ground, dozens of sleek, pointed water torpedoes emerged, their sharp tips glinting dangerously. They hovered ominously, each one aimed directly at him. The surface of the arena remained a vast, undulating pool, yet somehow the water seemed endless.


    A grin spread across Travis¡¯s face as his pulse quickened.


    '' Now this is gonna be fun!'' he thought, a thrill coursing through him.


    Without hesitation, he leapt off the raised ledge, landing smoothly on the water¡¯s surface as if it were solid ground. Svelte wasted no time, signaling with a swift motion of his hand. The torpedoes launched forward in unison, hurtling toward Travis with blinding speed.


    The first one streaked toward his head, but Travis tilted his body effortlessly, letting it zip past. Another followed immediately, and then another, their sharp points slicing through the air with lethal intent. Yet, Travis evaded each one with fluid grace, his movements a seamless blend of agility and precision. He began to sprint across the water, his speed leaving trails of ripples in his wake.


    One torpedo crashed into the water behind him, causing a sharp splash, but as soon as it disappeared, another rose to replace it, homing in on its target. The relentless pursuit continued, forcing Travis to push harder. He leaned into his momentum, gliding across the water like a phantom.


    As he streaked past Svelte, he smirked, his taunting laughter echoing through the arena. The torpedoes shifted direction mid-air, following him with unyielding determination. Travis darted to the side, narrowly avoiding their piercing points. With a sharp turn, he drifted along the water¡¯s surface, leaving Svelte momentarily in the crossfire.


    The torpedoes closed in on their creator, but before they could strike, Svelte flicked his wrist, halting them mid-air. They hovered briefly before spinning around and resuming their chase.


    Travis chuckled, adrenaline surging as he glanced at the arena walls. The moment he darted past a corner, several torpedoes slammed into the structure with a resounding explosion.


    Boom!


    The impact left a massive dent, but the Coliseum¡¯s magical defenses quickly repaired the damage, the stone knitting itself back together in seconds.


    Travis barely spared it a glance, too caught up in the rush of the fight. His laughter rang out as he continued dodging and weaving through the onslaught. Each time a torpedo drew close, he met it with his blade, slicing through the watery construct with ease.


    Water sprayed in all directions as he moved, his soaked clothes clinging to his body. But at this point, he didn¡¯t care. Drenched and exhilarated, Travis was completely in his element. Each strike of his sword sent another torpedo splashing harmlessly back into the pool, and he couldn¡¯t stop the grin spreading across his face.


    ¡°Come on, Svelte! Is this all you¡¯ve got?¡± he shouted, his voice alive with mockery and excitement.


    Svelte''s frown deepened as he observed Travis''s unrelenting amusement. Each dodge, every laugh, grated on him like a jagged blade. This wasn¡¯t a battle to Travis¡ªit was a game.


    ¡°FINE!¡± Svelte bellowed, his voice echoing through the arena. ¡°I WANTED TO END THIS NICELY, BUT YOU¡¯VE PUSHED ME TOO FAR!¡±


    With a flourish of his hands, the water rippled violently, the pool beneath them responding to his fury. From the depths, Svelte began to form a colossal water spear, its surface swirling with raw, compressed energy. The weapon shimmered with an ethereal blue light, its size dwarfing anything he had conjured before.


    Travis¡¯s grin faltered as he took in the sheer scale of the spear. He swallowed hard, his throat dry despite the dampness surrounding him.


    '' If this keeps up, I¡¯m going to lose, '' he thought grimly, his mind racing. '' I need to find some way to beat him.''


    A flicker of an idea sparked in his mind, and his gaze shifted briefly to the water where Svelte had planted his staff earlier. The memory of it sinking into the depths came rushing back.


    '' The staff! ''


    A sly smile crept across Travis¡¯s face, his confidence returning. He lifted his gaze to the massive blue spear, the light from it casting sharp reflections across the water.


    '' But first, I need to deal with that thing, '' he thought, steadying his breath as he tightened his grip on his sword.


    The faint red glow of his blade began to intensify, pulsating in response to his resolve.


    Travis planted his feet firmly on the water¡¯s surface, the ripples beneath him calming as his focus sharpened. The arena fell eerily silent, the tension mounting with every passing second. Above him, the colossal spear hovered menacingly, ready to strike.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 A battle for Freedom Finale

    Without hesitation, Svelte thrust his hand forward, and the massive water spear descended from the heavens with devastating force. It tore through the air, leaving behind a shimmering blue trail, its speed so blinding it was almost imperceptible. The energy surrounding it hummed with power, crackling like a storm as it honed in on its target.


    Travis didn¡¯t flinch. His instincts took over, and with a burst of mana, he activated Blinding Flash. His body blurred as he vanished from the spear¡¯s path, reappearing effortlessly on the coliseum wall. He planted his feet firmly against the vertical surface, watching intently as the spear struck the water below.


    BOOOM!


    The impact was cataclysmic. A massive geyser of water erupted into the sky, rising so high it drenched the rooftops of nearby buildings. The arena was consumed by a momentary chaos of sound and motion, the roar of the explosion reverberating through the air. Droplets rained down like glittering shards of crystal, catching the light of the twin moons above.


    Travis stood motionless on the wall, his chest heaving as he took a steadying breath.


    '' Alright, I think I know how to get to that staff. I can do this. Calm down, '' he told himself, inhaling deeply.


    Slowly, his racing thoughts settled, and he gave a small nod. His eyes sharpened as he saw Svelte beginning to conjure another spear, the water beneath his opponent coiling like a serpent awaiting its master¡¯s command.


    It¡¯s now or never.


    Gripping his sword tightly, Travis pushed off from the wall, leaping into the sky. He soared higher and higher, the cold night air biting at his skin. For a fleeting moment, everything slowed. Above him, the twin moons glowed brilliantly, their light illuminating the battlefield below.


    Travis gathered his mana, pouring it into his blade with unwavering focus.


    VBOOOM!


    A fierce, radiant red aura engulfed the sword, swirling around it like a living flame. The heat of his energy burned bright, casting long shadows across the waterlogged arena. The sword pulsed with power, resonating with Travis¡¯s resolve.


    From below, Svelte raised his massive spear, now aimed at Travis in the sky.


    ¡°Say goodbye, Travis! You can¡¯t dodge in midair!¡± Svelte shouted, his voice ringing with finality.


    Travis smirked, his grip tightening on the hilt of his weapon. ¡°I wasn¡¯t planning on dodging,¡± he shot back, his tone dripping with confidence.


    The spear launched upward, splitting the air with a deafening roar, its path unwavering as it surged toward Travis at breakneck speed.


    Travis met it head-on. With a roar of his own, he swung his blade downward in one decisive motion.


    SLING!


    A dark red crescent-shaped energy wave erupted from his sword, roaring through the sky like a comet. The fiery wave collided with the water spear, and for a moment, the two forces clashed violently, filling the arena with an intense burst of light. But the crescent wave proved superior, cutting through the spear effortlessly.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    The severed halves of the spear disintegrated into harmless droplets, raining down as the crimson wave pressed onward. It struck the water below with relentless power, carving a massive chasm through the flooded arena. The gap extended downward, revealing the hidden staff beneath the surface.


    Without hesitation, the wave sliced cleanly through the staff, shattering it in an instant. The water around it trembled, the energy keeping it afloat dissipating as the wave continued its destructive path.


    Finally, the attack struck the ground beneath the arena.


    BOOOOM!


    The resulting explosion was monumental. A towering mushroom cloud of energy and debris erupted into the air, the force shaking the very foundation of the coliseum. Travis shifted midair, teleporting to a safe distance just as the shockwave spread outward. He landed gracefully on a dry patch of the arena, watching the aftermath with satisfaction.


    Despite the sheer magnitude of the blast, the coliseum¡¯s enchanted walls remained unbroken, its ancient defenses absorbing the brunt of the destruction.


    Travis let out a breath he hadn¡¯t realized he was holding, his blade still glowing faintly as he surveyed the battlefield. The arena was silent save for the soft sound of water settling back into place.


    ¡°Looks like the game¡¯s over,¡± he muttered, a victorious grin tugging at his lips.


    Travis smiled, a mix of triumph and exhaustion playing on his face.


    "I won," he said aloud, his voice steady yet tinged with relief. His words echoed faintly in the now-quiet arena, the remnants of his energy crackling softly in the air.


    Turning, he leaped gracefully from the coliseum wall, landing lightly on the roof of a nearby building. The tiles beneath his feet were slick from the earlier chaos, but he paid them no mind. With a heavy sigh, he sank onto the roof, his body finally relaxing after the intense battle.


    He raised his sword, holding it before him as the crimson aura faded completely. The blade began to crumble, fragments flaking away like ash in the wind. He frowned, watching the weapon disintegrate into dust that was carried off by the breeze.


    '' Well, thank you for your work, '' he thought, a silent nod of respect to the blade that had helped him emerge victorious.


    As he sat there, the cool night air brushing against his skin, a sudden realization struck him. His frown deepened as he looked down at himself.


    ¡°Fuck, I need clothes,¡± he muttered, shaking his head. He ran a hand through his damp hair, his cheeks heating slightly despite the chill. His victory was glorious, but it seemed the aftermath would be a little less dignified.


    Back inside the coliseum, Svelte lay sprawled in the center of the crater, its edges jagged and charred from the earlier explosion. The magical coliseum, which normally repaired itself in seconds, refused to mend this spot as long as he remained within it. His chest rose and fell heavily, his body aching with exhaustion.


    Suddenly, a shadow appeared beside him, and he didn¡¯t need to look to know who it was.


    ¡°What do you want, Gramps?¡± he muttered, his voice hoarse but laced with frustration.


    The figure beside him was the man who had created this very coliseum many years ago, his presence both comforting and commanding. His posture was relaxed, but his gaze carried the weight of lifetimes.


    ¡°Well,¡± the old man began, his voice deep and steady, ¡°I¡¯m here to watch my grandson finally meet his match. I¡¯ve been telling you from the start¡ªhiding in this coliseum won¡¯t change anything. It has its limits, you know. If someone stronger than I was ever chooses to destroy it, it¡¯ll crumble like nothing.¡±


    Svelte clenched his fists, staring up at the night sky. The moons hung overhead, their light illuminating the battlefield and the towering figure beside him.


    ¡°I understand that, but I¡¯m not hiding,¡± Svelte replied, his voice trembling slightly. ¡°I wanted to build myself a team¡ªpeople who would help me protect this place. This coliseum... it¡¯s the only memory I have left of you, Grandpa.¡±


    His voice broke at the end, and tears began to well up in his eyes.


    The old man crouched down beside him, his expression softening. ¡°You¡¯re wrong, my boy. The memory of me doesn¡¯t live in these walls. It lives in your heart. As long as you remember me, I¡¯ll live on. But let¡¯s not pretend¡ªdon¡¯t lie to me. I know your fear.¡±


    At those words, Svelte¡¯s body tensed. He began to tremble, his mind spiraling back to memories he had tried so hard to suppress.


    '' That thing wasn¡¯t human. How can someone in human flesh be so evil... so powerful?'' he thought, his heart pounding as flashes of a past encounter overwhelmed him. The sinister aura, the unstoppable force¡ªit was burned into his very soul.


    ¡°Drexler, huh?¡± his grandfather said, his tone sharp but not unkind. ¡°You can¡¯t outrun your fears, boy. As long as you fear them, they¡¯ll keep chasing you. They¡¯ll haunt you in every shadow, every thought.¡±


    Svelte¡¯s trembling grew worse, but his grandfather¡¯s voice cut through the haze of terror.


    ¡°Look at the boy you just fought,¡± he continued. ¡°He¡¯s so young. Each fight he enters, he trembles inside. But he doesn¡¯t stop. He fights, and he keeps going forward. Do you know why? Because fear isn¡¯t an excuse to stop. It¡¯s fuel to push you further, to make you stronger. And now it¡¯s your turn to face it.¡±


    Svelte¡¯s breath hitched, his fists unclenching as his grandfather extended a hand toward him.


    ¡°Now, get up,¡± the old man said firmly, a faint smile tugging at his lips. ¡°I need to repair this crater, and you lying there isn¡¯t helping.¡±


    Svelte hesitated, his fingers trembling as he reached up. Just as he was about to grasp the hand extended toward him, it passed straight through, dissipating into faint wisps of light. A chill ran down his spine, his breath catching in his throat.


    "I''m not here anymore, boy," the voice echoed, calm yet unyielding, carrying a weight that made Svelte''s chest tighten. "And listen¡ªgo get yourself a girlfriend. I''m not going to have my bloodline end with you."


    Svelte''s eyes widened, his lips parting as if to argue, but no sound came. The figure faded, leaving behind only a faint shimmer in the air. He clenched his jaw and forced himself to his feet. His legs wobbled, his body barely obeying, each movement a sharp reminder of his battered state.


    '' Fuck I hate his jokes '' he thought.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Naked Outside The Coliseum

    Travis perched on the roof, his legs dangling over the edge as he mulled over his next move. The village stretched out below him, quiet and dark under the moonlight, but leaving wasn¡¯t an option¡ªnot yet. Heading out without a map or even the faintest idea of the terrain would be suicide. He ran a hand through his disheveled hair and let out a slow breath.


    With a flick of his wrist, he summoned his Status. The glowing interface hovered before him, illuminating his face in pale light. His lips curled into a faint smile as he studied the details.


    ---


    Name: Travis Blackthorn


    Age: 17


    Level: 40


    Stats:


    Strength: 1/10


    Speed: 1/10


    Flexibility: 1/10


    Stamina: 1/10


    Luck: 1/10


    Mana: ???/???


    [Innate Abilities]


    Pain Catalyst


    Adapt


    [Skills]


    Blinding Step


    Reflex


    Forge


    Absorb


    Shift


    Cut


    ---


    ¡°What the fuck?¡± Travis muttered, his brow furrowing. ¡°I didn¡¯t even learn most of these. Why are they here?¡± He leaned back slightly, confusion etched across his face. After a moment, he shrugged. ¡°Oh well, that doesn¡¯t matter. Still¡­ sucks that I lost the book. Xavier¡¯s going to kill me, but he¡¯d probably understand. I hope.¡±


    What Travis didn¡¯t realize was that the book¡ªthe one he¡¯d clung to as his lifeline¡ªhad been utterly obliterated the moment he stepped out of the coliseum. Its destruction was an enigma, one shrouded in mystery, and for now, it would remain that way.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    His stomach growled loudly, pulling him out of his thoughts. He glanced down at himself, sighing at the sight of his bare skin. Naked and hungry¡ªnot exactly a great combination. ¡°Fantastic,¡± he muttered. ¡°Two things I never thought I¡¯d deal with at the same time.¡±


    Resolving to find something to wear, he leapt off the roof in one smooth motion. His bare feet touched the ground with a soft thud, and he activated his Mana Sense, casting an invisible net around him to feel for any nearby presences. The village roads were eerily quiet, the kind of silence that only came long past midnight. He walked cautiously, his eyes darting to the shadows, fully expecting no one to be around.


    Then he froze. A flicker of movement brushed the edge of his Mana Sense, and he ducked into the nearest alley. Pressing his back against the cold stone wall, he held his breath as a guard passed by, spear in hand. The man¡¯s footsteps echoed faintly on the cobblestones, slow and deliberate, before fading into the distance.


    Travis exhaled, wiping sweat from his brow. ¡°Okay, this isn¡¯t working. I need clothes.¡± His gaze flicked upward, and a faint smirk tugged at his lips. ¡°Time to raid some laundry lines.¡±


    He scaled the walls quickly, leaping from rooftop to rooftop, scanning for any signs of hanging laundry. Despite his best efforts, each line he found was either empty or too risky to approach. After what felt like an eternity of fruitless searching, he crouched on the edge of a roof, letting out a frustrated sigh.


    ¡°Great,¡± he muttered. ¡°I look and act like a total creep right now. Just what I needed. If some girl spots me like this¡­¡± He groaned, running a hand through his hair. The mental image alone was enough to make him cringe. Still, he had no choice but to keep searching¡ªtime wasn¡¯t on his side.


    The creak of the door behind him startled Travis. He turned sharply, ready to bolt, but a voice stopped him in his tracks.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re that kid from the coliseum,¡± the man said as he stepped out into the cool night air. His gaze swept over Travis and paused when he realized the young man was completely naked. ¡°I¡¯m sure you need a place to stay, don¡¯t you? Come inside. I¡¯ll get you something to wear.¡±


    Travis froze, his instincts flaring. He couldn¡¯t sense this man¡¯s Mana, not even a flicker. That alone made him uneasy. The idea of walking into the house of someone who practically didn¡¯t exist in the way he understood unnerved him.


    Still, the reality of his situation left him no room to argue. Naked and exposed, he didn¡¯t have much of a choice. Reluctantly, he stepped inside, glancing over his shoulder as the man closed the door behind him.


    ¡°Let me grab you some clothes,¡± the man said casually. ¡°People around here tend to have a fear of giant snakes.¡±


    Travis blinked, caught off guard. He looked down at himself and then back at the man, trying to gauge if he was serious.


    '' Did he just compliment my meat? '' he thought, feeling equal parts proud and creeped out.


    Moments later, the man returned with a set of clothes that fit surprisingly well. Travis pulled them on and offered a quick, sincere thanks.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s your name?¡± Travis asked as he adjusted the clothes.


    ¡°Oh, my bad. I¡¯m Evan Everhart,¡± the man replied, extending a hand. ¡°Nice to meet you, Travis. I really enjoyed your fights¡ªwell, except the final one that obviously didn¡¯t happen. You must be starving, huh? I¡¯ve got some leftovers from yesterday¡¯s dinner. Let me heat them up for you.¡±


    Travis nodded, his stomach growling in agreement. ¡°Thanks, Evan. I really appreciate it.¡±


    As Evan disappeared into the kitchen, Travis settled at the dining table. The silence pressed in on him, making him restless. He resisted the urge to fidget, wishing he could pull out his phone and scroll through TikTok.


    '' Guess this is the social media detox I¡¯ve been putting off, '' he thought dryly.


    Evan soon returned with steaming plates of food and set them down in front of Travis, along with his own serving. The scent was intoxicating, and Travis didn¡¯t bother to check if the food was poisoned or tampered with. He was far too hungry to care.


    He devoured the meal like a man starved, barely pausing to breathe. His appetite surprised even himself as he polished off five plates in less than ten minutes.


    ¡°Ahh, man,¡± he sighed, leaning back in his chair. ¡°Thank you for that. You don¡¯t know how much I needed it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it, kid,¡± Evan said, watching him with a faint smile. ¡°You know, I¡¯m really surprised you even made it out of that place.¡±


    Travis blinked, his brow furrowing. ¡°What do you mean surprised? I thought all you had to do was pay off your debt or serve your sentence to leave.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true,¡± Evan said, leaning forward slightly. ¡°But don¡¯t forget¡ªthat place is also a slave prison. Most of the people there aren¡¯t just criminals; they¡¯re slaves. That¡¯s why they have collars. The ones without collars are just regular prisoners.¡±


    Travis frowned. ¡°I never wore a collar, so I was just a regular prisoner, right?¡±


    Evan nodded but hesitated before speaking. ¡°Yes¡­ but the thing is, no one ever comes out of that place. Whether you¡¯re a slave or a regular prisoner, once you go in, you¡¯re there forever. That¡¯s common knowledge around here.¡±


    Travis stared at him, stunned. ¡°What? Are you serious? Then how¡ª¡±


    Evan gave him a knowing look but said nothing more, leaving Travis to sit in the silence of his own spiraling thoughts.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Relax Time

    Travis leaned back in his chair, his mind briefly wandering to Damian. The man was a mystery, someone who seemed to defy the very rules of the town. Travis didn¡¯t know much about him, but what little he did know was enough to intrigue him. If Damian wanted to leave this place, Travis was sure he could. Yet, for reasons unknown, he chose to stay. That choice gnawed at Travis¡¯s curiosity.


    '' What keeps him there?'' he wondered. But the thought only lingered for a moment before he shrugged it off.


    ¡°So, what doesn¡¯t the town say about that?¡± he asked, breaking the silence.


    Evan shook his head slowly, his expression neutral. ¡°Nothing. Nobody says anything. It¡¯s just something that happens, and nobody can do anything about it. Sure, if you¡¯re new to this town, it¡¯s normal to be bothered by it. But over time, you learn to live with it¡ªor at least, you tell yourself you do.¡±


    Travis exhaled sharply, leaning forward. ¡°Damn, that¡¯s messed up.¡±


    Evan shrugged, his tone light but resigned. ¡°What can you do, man? Anyway, enough about that. Tell me, how did you escape?¡±


    Travis smirked and reached for his glass of juice, taking a long sip before replying. ¡°Oh, I fought that guy¡ªSvelte.¡±


    Evan nearly choked on his drink, his eyes wide. ¡°What? You mean you fought Svelte?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Travis said, setting the glass down casually. ¡°Don¡¯t know if I actually beat him, though. Didn¡¯t stick around to find out. I just¡­ left the coliseum.¡±


    Evan leaned back, his jaw slack. ¡°That¡¯s¡­ that¡¯s insane. No one in this entire town has even scratched that guy, let alone gone up against him and walked away. And you¡¯re telling me you did that?¡±


    Travis chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°Come on, don¡¯t make it sound like a big deal. Besides, I can¡¯t even sense your Mana. You¡¯ve got to be some hidden genius yourself.¡±


    Evan laughed, the sound warm and genuine. ¡°Nah, nothing like that. I just learned how to hide my Mana real well growing up. Me and my brother used to play extreme hide-and-seek when we were kids. He was better at sensing than I was, so I had to get creative.¡±


    Travis grinned. ¡°A brother, huh? When do I get to meet him?¡±


    Evan¡¯s smile faltered, his expression darkening in an instant. ¡°Uh¡­ you won¡¯t. He passed away. So, yeah, never.¡±


    The air between them grew heavy, and Travis winced, feeling like he¡¯d just stepped on a landmine. ¡°Shit, man. I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to bring up anything bad.¡±


    Evan waved him off with a faint smile, though it didn¡¯t quite reach his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Really. Come on, let me show you your room.¡±Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    The atmosphere was tense as Travis followed Evan down the hall. Every step felt heavier than the last, the weight of his earlier words pressing on him like a stone. Evan finally stopped at a door and opened it, revealing a simple yet comfortable bedroom.


    ¡°Here you go,¡± Evan said, gesturing to the room. ¡°It¡¯s all yours. Sleep tight, champ.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± Travis replied, watching as Evan turned and walked away, his footsteps fading into the quiet of the house.


    Once alone, Travis sighed deeply and plopped onto the bed. Guilt gnawed at him, but exhaustion quickly overpowered it. His body ached, and his mind felt like it was wading through fog.


    '' I¡¯ll deal with it tomorrow, '' he told himself, closing his eyes. The softness of the bed enveloped him, and before he knew it, sleep had claimed him.


    ....


    The next morning, Travis woke up feeling completely refreshed, the kind of deep rest that seemed to melt away days of tension. As he stretched, his muscles loosened, and for the first time in a while, he noticed the absence of that familiar weight pressing on his back. The morning sunlight streamed through the thin curtains, casting warm patterns across the room. He swung his legs over the side of the bed, letting his feet touch the cool wooden floor, and rose with an easy fluidity.


    After splashing his face with water and shaking off the last remnants of sleep, Travis stepped out of the room, his bare footsteps faintly creaking on the old floorboards. The inviting scent of something warm and hearty wafted through the hallway, drawing him toward the small kitchen area.


    As he neared the other room, he saw Evan at the stove, busy flipping something on a pan. The sight of his friend humming softly while moving with practiced ease over the simple setup brought a faint smile to Travis''s lips.


    "Yo, Evan," Travis called, sliding into the nearest chair with an audible sigh.


    Evan glanced over his shoulder, smirking. "Travis, how are you?"


    "Pretty great," Travis said, leaning back and lacing his hands behind his head. "Slept really well last night. What about you?"


    Evan turned back to his cooking, giving a half-snort. "It was alright. Would¡¯ve been better if a certain someone hadn¡¯t been jumping around on my roof in the middle of the night."


    Travis laughed, leaning forward. "Sorry, mate. I was looking for something to wear. I mean, what if dawn came and I was still naked? Pretty sure I''d have been dragged straight back to the coliseum."


    "You''re not wrong about that," Evan said with a dry chuckle, shaking his head. He picked up a plate of scrambled eggs and toasted bread, setting it down on the table with a deliberate clink. "Well, here''s breakfast."


    Travis¡¯s stomach growled audibly as he eyed the food, the warm aroma making his mouth water. "You''re a lifesaver, man."


    Evan shrugged, grabbing his own plate. "Yeah, yeah. Just don¡¯t climb my roof again."


    They both shared a chuckle, the kind of easy laughter that came naturally between friends. Evan pushed his chair back and stood, stretching his arms above his head. "I''m gonna take a bath," he announced casually.


    Travis nodded, mouth half-full of food, and waved him off as he continued eating. His thoughts wandered as he savored the simple but satisfying meal.


    '' I still don''t know enough about this damn world. I should find a library or something... figure out how things work here, '' he mused, the idea forming as he chewed slowly.


    By the time he was done eating, the sound of running water in the adjacent bathroom had ceased. Evan stepped out moments later, his damp hair sticking to his forehead and steam following him like a ghost.


    "All yours," Evan said, motioning toward the bathroom with a towel slung over his shoulder.


    Travis nodded again and headed inside, the warm humidity hitting him like a comforting wave. Stripping down, he eased himself into the tub, letting out an audible sigh as the steaming hot water embraced his body. The heat seeped into his tired muscles, washing away aches he didn¡¯t realize he had.


    '' This is what I needed, '' he thought, closing his eyes and leaning back against the edge of the tub. But as much as the water soothed him, it couldn''t dull the fire simmering deep within.


    '' Fuck... now I can finally relax and think about how I''m going to get revenge on all my so-called classmates, '' he thought darkly, his fingers idly trailing through the water. His chest tightened, a familiar burn of hatred rising in him like bile.


    The memories of betrayal, of mockery, of humiliation, played out in his mind like an unrelenting storm. The faces of those who had wronged him burned brightly in his thoughts, stoking the hatred he carried every waking moment.


    '' They''ll pay, '' he promised himself, a twisted smirk curling his lips.


    The water rippled as he shifted, his knuckles turning white against the edge of the tub. '' But first, I need to get as strong as possible. These aren''t just any enemies¡ªthey''re the so-called "future heroes." ''


    The thought only made his smirk widen, his resolve hardening like tempered steel. He leaned back again, his mind racing with plans, schemes, and the distant promise of revenge.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Becoming an Adventurer

    After his bath, Travis spotted a bottle of moisturizer on the counter and smirked to himself. "Don¡¯t mind if I do," he muttered, taking a generous amount and applying it to his skin. Feeling refreshed, he dressed quickly in his worn clothes, then stepped out of the bathroom.


    Back in the dining room, Evan was already dressed in his farming attire¡ªa sturdy shirt and trousers, both slightly faded from hard labor. His boots were laced tight, and he was adjusting a sunhat as Travis entered.


    "By the way, is there an adventurers'' guild here? I need a job too," Travis asked, dropping into a chair.


    "Yeah, of course," Evan replied, nodding. "I can take you there if you want."


    Travis shook his head. "Nah, that¡¯s alright. Just give me the directions. I¡¯d rather walk around town and get a feel for the place."


    Evan scratched his chin, thinking. "Umm, sure. Well..." He began listing off landmarks and turns, and Travis nodded, committing the directions to memory.


    "Got it," Travis said as Evan grabbed his tools and prepared to leave.


    Evan paused at the door. "House is yours for now. Just don¡¯t do anything stupid." He grinned before heading out.


    Travis watched him go, leaning back in his chair.


    '' Wow, he really trusts me with the place. Back in my world, some people wouldn¡¯t trust a guy like me for a second, let alone leave me alone in their house. ''


    Shaking the thought away, he rummaged through a chest near the corner of the room, eventually finding something better to wear¡ªa simple tunic and trousers that fit well enough. After slipping them on, he left the house. Evan hadn¡¯t left a key, so he simply pulled the door shut behind him and began walking toward the guild.


    The streets of the town were lively but unassuming. Vendors called out their wares, children played in the alleys, and the scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the earthy smell of livestock. Travis followed the directions Evan gave him, navigating through narrow streets and bustling market stalls.


    After a few minutes, he arrived at his destination.


    He¡¯d expected something grand and imposing, with banners and adventurers spilling out of a bustling hall. Instead, the building before him looked as though it had seen better days¡ªmany years ago. The paint was peeling, the wood was splintered, and the roof sagged ominously in one corner.


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


    ''Man, this place looks like it¡¯s one strong wind away from collapsing, '' he thought, steeling himself as he pushed open the creaky door.


    Inside, the atmosphere wasn¡¯t much better. The hall was dimly lit, and the air carried a faint mustiness. There were five groups of adventurers scattered around, most keeping to themselves, their conversations low and subdued. The employees behind the counters looked tired and dispirited, their eyes dull from what seemed like endless monotony.


    '' Man, this place sucks, '' Travis thought as he strode toward the reception desk, his boots echoing against the worn floorboards. Despite the underwhelming environment, his determination remained steady. If this was where he needed to start, so be it.


    "Hey. I''d like to sign up as an adventurer," Travis said as he approached the reception desk, where a bored-looking man lounged behind the counter. The name tag on his chest read Tim.


    Tim arched an eyebrow and straightened up slightly. "Oh, that''s nice. Just need you to sign here." He slid a piece of paper across the desk, then hesitated, giving Travis a once-over. "Wait, can you read and write?"


    Travis nodded confidently, but as soon as the paper was placed in front of him, a realization hit him¡ªhe was in another world. His heart sank for a moment.


    '' What if the language here is completely different? ''


    But the moment his eyes landed on the text, relief washed over him. It was in English. A grin tugged at his lips as he quickly scribbled his name and filled out the required details.


    Tim took the paper, glanced over it, and handed Travis a small ticket. "Alright, you''re good to go. There''s a testing ground behind this building. Show this to the man there, and he''ll test you."


    He leaned back in his chair and added in a monotone voice, "Thanks for signing up as an adventurer. Your work is highly appreciated."


    Travis gave an awkward nod and stepped out of the dimly lit guild hall. Walking around the building, he soon spotted what was supposed to be the testing facility. His shoulders slumped slightly.


    '' Man, this place really sucks ass, '' he thought, taking in the small, rundown training yard.


    The training dummies were worn and splintered, the weapons rack was rusty, and weeds poked through cracks in the uneven ground.


    Near the edge of the yard, a man was slouched against a barrel, head drooping. Travis approached and tapped him on the shoulder. The man startled awake, blinking rapidly before jumping back.


    "Whoa there, kid! You trying to fight me or something?" he blurted.


    "Uh, no," Travis replied, holding up the ticket. "I¡¯m here to take my adventurer test."


    The man, whose name tag read Jim, took the ticket and inspected it with a frown. "Alright, fine. Let¡¯s get started. You¡¯re a swordsman, right? Come on, I¡¯ll grab you a sword."


    Jim grabbed a wooden sword from the rack and handed it to Travis. It felt solid but unremarkable in his hands.


    "First test¡¯s simple," Jim said, leading him to a battered wooden dummy. "I need to see how deep you can cut into this thing. Some monsters out there have tough skin, so if you can¡¯t make a deep cut with this wooden sword, you¡¯re not ready for the field."


    Travis stared at the dummy, his brow furrowing. '' What the fuck? How am I supposed to cut anything with a wooden sword? ''


    Behind him, Jim smirked, his eyes glinting with malice. '' Fucking kid¡¯s got no chance. No one passes this test. It¡¯s impossible. I¡¯ll make sure this punk never gets to live his dreams. ''


    Jim had made it his mission to crush the hopes of everyone who came through this yard. Life had robbed him of his own happiness long ago, and now he thrived on dragging others down with him.


    "Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got," Jim said, plastering on a fake smile when Travis glanced back at him.


    Travis turned his attention back to the dummy, gripping the wooden sword tightly.


    '' Oh well, doesn¡¯t matter, '' he thought, exhaling slowly.


    Focusing his mana, he let a faint glow spread through the blade. The wooden sword vibrated slightly, struggling to hold the energy.


    '' Gotta make this quick before it breaks, '' he thought. In one swift motion, Travis slashed at the dummy with all his strength.


    The impact was immediate.


    SLING


    CRACK


    The dummy split clean in half, its top half tumbling to the ground in pieces. The wooden sword gave one last creak before snapping in two, leaving Travis holding a splintered hilt.


    Jim stood frozen, his mouth hanging open, his face a mask of disbelief.


    '' What in the hell!? '' he thought, staring at the destroyed dummy.


    Travis turned around casually, tossing the broken sword aside. "What¡¯s the next test?" he asked, his voice calm and steady.


    Jim struggled to form words, still gaping at the destruction in front of him.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 The World Of Astrevia

    The next test was a magic test, but since Travis had no idea about that he didn''t do it. The last test was the hardest. Which was a spar with the examiner. Jim was excited to fail Travis, so he went and took two wooden swords, but he made sure to take one that was broken, meaning if they had the slightest clash it would break.


    He gave it to Travis, who the very same second he held it knew it was broken. He looked at Jim and sighed. Understanding his intentions, but he wasn¡¯t going to let him win this.


    " Alright here at the rules. In order to win, you need to disarm or render your opponent to not be able to continue. You cannot use anything but your sword okay. Now let''s begin "


    Jim immediately ran towards Travis ready to break his sword but Travis evaded him to the side. He walked off and stood on the other side.


    '' Well, if I can''t cut him I''ll scare him ''he thought as he smirked.


    Jim was about to move when he felt death standing at a distance, he looked up at Travis¡¯s eyes and saw the death glare in them. He was immediately shaken to his core as he tried to step back. Travis vanished from sight and appeared behind with the sword pointed at his back.


    " Pass me or I''ll turn you into that wooden dummy over there " He said, the words were like needles to his back making Jim quickly nodd.


    Travis then smiled as he lowered his Mana. Jim fell to his knees as that feeling passed, he had pissed his pants he wasn''t afraid to admit.


    '' This kid is not to be messed with '' he thought


    He stood up and went into his room as he stamped his ticket, he gave it to Travis with a smile " You pass" he said with a hint of fear in his tone.


    Travis took the ticket with a smirk" Thanks man , you were a really great examiner" he said and walked away leaving Jim to breathe freely.


    '' I''m quiting this job '' he thought.


    Travis walked back to the guild building with his ticket, he gave it to Tim who was stunned seeing as he was passed. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    '' What did he do to Jim?''he wondered to himself. He didn''t bother asking questions. He got up and went to the back. He then came back with Travis¡¯s adventurer card.


    ¡º Name : Travis


    Age : 17


    Class : Swordsman


    Rank : D


    ¡»


    '' Nice. Well time to find a library ''he thought as he walked out the guild. He looked left then right. ''Hmm yeah I should ask for directions ''


    ......


    He arrived at a library, it was small but he didn¡¯t care for that. All he wanted was knowledge on this world. He found a few books that would explain everything to him.


    The world of Astrevia. A vast and magnificent planet, brimming with wonders and untamed magic, was divided into five major continents, each unique in its own right. To the east lay the Elven Continent, a land of ancient forests and timeless beauty. In the west sprawled the Dwarven Continent, its rugged mountains and deep mines rich with the treasures of the earth. To the north, the Dragon Continent stretched across vast, icy plains and towering peaks, where majestic and fearsome dragons ruled the skies. Far to the south was the Forgotten Continent, shrouded in mystery and secrets long buried in its dense jungles and hidden ruins.


    At the heart of the world sat the Human Continent, the smallest of them all, but by far the most powerful. It was home to the Golden Empire, an unrivaled force ruled by the most powerful individual to ever walk the land, whose influence stretched across Astrevia.


    Travis sighed '' I guess they wrote this book'' he thought.


    In this world all four power houses live together in harmony. Forming a bond that could never be broken. They names of the current rulers.


    The most powerful beings in Astrevia are known by few, but their names are spoken in reverence across the world:


    1. Rowan Sinclair.


    2. Valdrakhan Inferno.


    3. Sylrithiel Starweaver.


    4. Thrain Stonefist.


    Together, they represent the pinnacle of power, living in harmony and balance. However, their peace has been shattered by the emergence of a dark and enigmatic enemy: the Vermillion King. A being from a realm beyond comprehension, his presence is a threat none could have foreseen. Even with all their strength combined, the four mighty individuals struggle to fathom how such a foe could ever be defeated.


    The Vermillion King appeared five years ago on a remote island, far from any known civilization. The moment he stepped foot into this world, Astrevia trembled¡ªits very core shaken by his malevolent presence. The four of them, the SS-Class beings, were the only ones able to sense the depth of his malice, drawing them together to confront this terrifying adversary. But despite their combined efforts, they remain no closer to understanding how to vanquish this new and powerful threat.


    Travis closed the book with a soft snap and placed it carefully back on the shelf, the faint smell of aged paper lingering in the air. He ran his fingers along the rows of books, scanning the spines, searching for something that might explain Mana in more detail.


    The soft glow of enchanted candles illuminated the dust motes floating lazily in the air, but after a few minutes, he found nothing that seemed to fit. His frustration grew, and he sighed before approaching the librarian¡¯s desk.


    She looked up from her work, her eyes glowing with an ethereal light as she raised a hand. A faint hum filled the air, and with a graceful motion, a book slid off the shelf and floated into his waiting hands.


    Travis nodded in appreciation, murmuring a quick "Thank you."


    With the book clutched in his hands, he made his way to the back of the library, the quiet rustle of pages echoing as he passed rows of ancient tomes. He settled into a chair, the wood creaking beneath him, and opened the book. The cover was worn, its edges softened by time, but the text inside seemed to shimmer, as if the words themselves had a pulse.


    ¡°Alright, time to understand this,¡± he muttered to himself, his eyes narrowing as he began reading, the complexity of Mana drawing him in deeper with every page.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Learning Mana With The Heros

    [ Taiyo, The Capital Of The Golden Empire]


    Where the young heroes are being trained each and everyday so that they''re ready to fight the oncoming threat that is the Vermillion King. Currently everyone was in class. Today''s lesson was Mana. Their teacher stood infront of the class as she began teaching.


    " Welcome students. Today we''ll be learning about Mana. Let us begin firstly, I''m sure you all know already but Mana is the source of all life, without Mana nothing can exist even things that aren''t alive are made out of Mana. Such as Mana stones etc. Now let''s begin. Mana is separated into two parts. Life force and Energy. Life force isn''t really hard to understand. The park that''s hard is to understand is Energy because it''s the beginning of everything else we use such as magic etc.


    But it''s separated into Five Categories that you all must know by now.


    1. Magic


    2. Physical


    3. Arcane


    4. Void


    5. Spiritual


    A normal person can carry one but none of you are normal so I''m sure you have 2 3 or even 4, but no one has ever had 5. Except of course God''s. But that''s a topic for another day.


    Now let''s continue with the explanation. Let''s begin with Magic.


    [ A/N: This is long, but I hope you all read it. Because it''s very important for future arcs. ]


    "Magic is the most accessible form of Energy, and it''s what most of you will use in your daily lives. Magic is the manipulation of raw Energy into a form that interacts with the world around us. It can be used to create, transform, and destroy matter, but its primary use is to manipulate the elements and the forces that govern the physical world.


    When we speak of magic, we''re generally referring to the elemental branches: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, and the lesser-known ones like Lightning, Ice, and Metal. These are the basic forces that form the foundation of magical practice.


    A novice will usually begin by learning to control a single element, mastering it before moving on to others. The key here is the relationship between the caster''s will and the Energy they channel. Magic is not about brute force, but about understanding the flow of Energy and shaping it into the desired effect. For example, to create a fireball, a mage doesn''t simply summon a flame¡ªno, they pull the latent Fire Energy from the environment, shape it with their mind, and bind it with their Life Force to bring it into existence.


    But as simple as it sounds, magic requires constant practice and control. Unskilled use can result in backfire, injury, or worse¡ªespecially when dealing with volatile elements like Fire or Lightning. The more you attune your senses to the different energies, the easier it becomes to control and manipulate them, but only through discipline."Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The teacher paced slowly, their fingers tracing the air as if they were molding the very fabric of Mana itself.


    "Now, Physical Energy. This category is the manipulation of the Mana that enhances the body. It directly influences the user''s strength, speed, endurance, and vitality. This form of Energy is the foundation for what we call ''combat magic,'' where a practitioner focuses more on enhancing their physical abilities rather than casting spells.


    By drawing upon Physical Energy, you can increase your reflexes, heal minor wounds, and even manipulate your own body''s molecular structure to become more resistant to damage. It is crucial for any warrior or athlete, for without Physical Energy, one¡¯s body would be unable to keep up with the demands of battle or strenuous activity.


    This is the form of Energy that is most commonly used by those who wish to fight on the front lines. The more control you have over your Physical Energy, the more you can push your body beyond normal human limitations¡ªwithout breaking it."


    The instructor''s eyes narrowed slightly, watching the faces of the students.


    "Next, Arcane Energy. Arcane Energy is where things get more... complicated. This form of Energy manipulates the fundamental laws of reality itself. Time, space, gravity, and even the flow of light¡ªArcane Energy can affect all these and more. However, unlike the elements of Magic, Arcane Energy is not something that can be wielded easily. It requires a deep understanding of the universe¡¯s rules and an innate ability to bend them to your will.


    You¡¯ve likely heard of teleportation, time manipulation, or the creation of invisible barriers¡ªthese are all applications of Arcane Energy. However, the more you manipulate Arcane forces, the greater the risk of disrupting the fabric of reality itself. Too much interference, and you could cause temporal rifts or spatial distortions that threaten existence. Mastering Arcane Energy is no small feat, and it often takes years of study and precise control to even begin to understand its true potential."


    The teacher paused, allowing the gravity of Arcane Energy to settle in.


    "Void Energy. Now, this is a dark and dangerous force. Void Energy is the manipulation of nothingness. It is the absence of anything¡ªthe removal of matter and energy from existence itself. Void Energy is not simply destructive; it is erasing. It has the potential to erase living beings, objects, and even concepts from reality entirely. It is a force that threatens to unravel the world itself if mishandled.


    Void Energy is incredibly rare, and even the most skilled of practitioners approach it with extreme caution. The line between control and chaos is thin with Void Energy, and only those with iron discipline can wield it without succumbing to its corrupting influence. To use Void Energy is to embrace the very concept of nothingness, and it often comes with a price¡ªa toll on the user''s body, mind, or soul."


    The room grew quiet, as students shifted uncomfortably in their seats.


    "Finally, we come to Spiritual Energy. This is the most subtle and most elusive form of Energy. Spiritual Energy is tied to the soul, to the mind, and to the deeper, intangible forces of the universe. It deals with emotions, thoughts, and even the influence of spirits and divine beings. Those who specialize in Spiritual Energy can communicate with the dead, manipulate memories, or influence the will of others. It is often used for healing, protection, or divination, but it can also be used for cursing, possession, and other darker arts.


    Spiritual Energy is unique because it does not rely on the physical body as much as the other categories. Instead, it draws from the inner world, the unseen realms of consciousness. It can also interact with other forms of Energy, strengthening or even manipulating their effects. For example, a Spiritual practitioner may use their Energy to cleanse a corrupted area of Arcane Energy, or even to purify a wound infused with dark magic."


    The teacher took a deep breath, scanning the room of students.


    "So, while each of these categories has its own strengths and applications, the most powerful practitioners are those who can wield more than one form of Energy. A mage who can manipulate both Magic and Physical Energy is capable of casting devastating spells while maintaining their physical prowess. A skilled Arcane practitioner with knowledge of Void or Spiritual Energy can manipulate the very laws of reality to their will.


    But the key to true mastery lies in balance. It¡¯s not enough to simply wield multiple categories of Mana. You must understand their interactions, their limits, and their dangers. Mana is vast, and only through understanding its complexities can you unlock its true potential."


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Kael’s Endeavor

    After class, everyone filed out of the room to head to their respective tutors. Elara, however, lingered behind, her gaze fixed on Ms. Janet. As the last student left, she approached the teacher¡¯s desk with measured steps.


    ¡°Ms. Janet, I have a question,¡± Elara said, standing just before the desk, her voice calm but with a slight edge to it. Ms. Janet, ever the warm and approachable figure, looked up with a kind smile.


    ¡°Yes, please ask, dear. That¡¯s what I¡¯m here for,¡± she replied, her tone inviting, though there was an air of unspoken curiosity in her gaze.


    Elara hesitated for a moment, gathering her thoughts before she spoke. ¡°Well, I¡¯d like to learn about the Forgotten Continent. Is it possible for you to teach us about it tomorrow?¡±


    Ms. Janet raised an eyebrow, her smile still in place but now tinged with a bit of surprise. ¡°Oh, is that a request? Well, I¡¯ll see what I can do. Is that all?¡±


    ¡°No, I also wanted to ask about magic,¡± Elara continued, her eyes narrowing slightly as she pressed on. ¡°Most people in this world need magical circles to control their magic, but it seems most of my classmates don¡¯t need them. Could you explain why that is?¡±


    Ms. Janet leaned back in her chair, her fingers tapping lightly on the desk as she considered the question. ¡°Well, Elara, talent plays a huge role in everything,¡± she began thoughtfully, her voice taking on a more serious tone. ¡°As much as someone can achieve great things using their own power, everyone has a certain limit they cannot surpass. Take the Emperor, for example¡ªhe¡¯s arguably the most powerful being in our world after the Vermillion King, but even he¡¯s reached his peak. He can never grow beyond that. So, to answer your question, your classmates are simply more talented than most. That¡¯s all, sweetie. I hope that clears things up for you.¡±


    Elara¡¯s lips curled into a tight smile as she nodded. ¡°It does. Thank you, Ms. Janet,¡± she said, her voice now laced with a touch of forced politeness as she turned to leave.


    But as soon as the door clicked shut behind her, Elara¡¯s face darkened. Her shoulders tensed, and her thoughts spiraled into frustration.


    ¡®Bloody whore. I ask a simple question, and she thinks I need a lesson in storytelling. Does she really think I¡¯m not smart enough to understand the answer? That¡¯s what I hate about these people here. They have no idea who I am. I¡¯m Elara Winters, for heaven¡¯s sake. I¡¯m a boss bitch, and they¡¯re all too damn stupid to realize it.¡¯


    Her fists clenched at her sides as she walked down the hallway, heading toward her tutor. She wasn¡¯t the type to let anything slide, especially not a trivial thing like this.


    On the other side of the building, Kael was hard at work. His muscles strained with each swing of his sword as he trained under the watchful eye of his tutor, Edward Jones, one of the most renowned swordsmen in the world. Edward, a member of the national guard, was a tall man with a presence that demanded respect. His movements were precise and efficient, every strike and parry a testament to years of intense training.


    Kael¡¯s swings were wild, each one lacking the finesse that Edward had come to expect from a proper swordsman. Despite his raw strength and stamina, Kael¡¯s technique was abysmal, and it showed in every sloppy movement. Edward¡¯s sharp eyes didn¡¯t miss a single misstep.


    ¡®How is he supposed to be the God of Swords if he can¡¯t even defend himself against me?¡¯ Edward thought, frustration building within him. ¡®There¡¯s something he¡¯s hiding, and I¡¯ll get to the bottom of this. No one¡¯s this incompetent, not with that reputation.¡¯The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Edward¡¯s grip tightened around his own sword, his eyes narrowing with resolve. He needed to push Kael further, to see what lay beneath the surface of this clearly troubled student. Without warning, Edward launched a calculated strike, swift and precise. In one clean motion, he disarmed Kael and sent him crashing to the floor with a thud.


    ¡°Fuck!!!¡± Kael¡¯s voice was full of rage and frustration as he slapped the floor in anger, his face flushed with humiliation. Edward stood over him, offering a hand, but Kael slapped it away with a growl.


    ¡°I¡¯m done for the day,¡± Kael spat, his voice seething with unspoken bitterness. He pushed himself off the ground and stormed off, leaving Edward standing there, his disappointment palpable in the air between them.


    As Kael made his way back to the dormitory, a large, stone building within the castle gates, he felt the weight of failure pressing down on him. The building itself was well-kept, its stone walls worn but sturdy, offering an imposing yet comforting sense of security. But none of that mattered now. Kael¡¯s mind was preoccupied with the crushing weight of his own limitations, the frustration that gnawed at him every time he faced defeat.


    When he reached the hallway, he passed Freya Alden, a girl whose sharp wit and knowing smirk never seemed to leave her. As Kael walked by, she let out a small, almost mocking chuckle. He couldn¡¯t ignore it.


    ¡°What¡¯s funny?!¡± he snapped, his voice laced with irritation as he turned to face her.


    Freya didn¡¯t stop laughing, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she looked him up and down. She paused for a moment, savoring the tension in the air before replying, ¡°Well, you of course. After stealing Travis¡¯s ability, you¡¯d think you¡¯d be as strong as he was destined to be, but I guess that was an overstatement.¡±


    With that, she turned and continued down the hall, her laughter echoing in the silence, leaving Kael standing there, fuming.


    Kael¡¯s face twisted in anger as he turned on his heel, muttering curses under his breath. He stormed into his room, slamming the door behind him. Alone now, the floodgates of his rage opened. He ripped the closest piece of furniture from its place, throwing it across the room, only to do the same with the next. His frustration boiled over, and he didn¡¯t stop until every single item in the room was broken or shattered.


    His breath was ragged as he stood amid the wreckage, his heart pounding. The room was a mess, a reflection of the chaos swirling inside him.


    Kael stood amidst the chaos of his room, breathing heavily, his fists clenched tight. "Fuck, let me think," he muttered under his breath. His mind raced as the frustration bubbled over.


    ¡°I only stole Travis¡¯s innate ability, but I didn¡¯t steal his talent¡­ that¡¯s why the fuck I¡¯m still weak when it comes to swordsmanship.¡± The realization hit him hard, the truth slicing deeper than any blade ever could. His rage, which had been simmering beneath the surface, intensified as the weight of his inadequacy pressed down on him.


    Without thinking, Kael summoned a sword, his hands trembling with raw anger. In one fluid motion, he hurled the weapon toward the door, his eyes narrowing as it sliced through the air with deadly precision. It collided with the wood with a loud crash, splintering the doorframe.


    From the hallway, Rowan, who had come to check on Kael, dodged the oncoming blade with an agility that was second nature to him. ¡®Wow, he¡¯s angrier than ever,¡¯ Rowan thought, his eyes widening briefly before he calmly opened the door.


    ¡°Kael. What¡¯s the problem now?¡± Rowan asked, stepping into the room without so much as a glance at the wreckage surrounding them.


    ¡°Edward said you cut your lessons short,¡± he added, his voice calm but with a hint of concern.


    Kael barely acknowledged him at first, his eyes still locked on the destruction around him.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just miss home,¡± he said, the words spilling out like a reflex, but it was a lie, obvious even to someone as detached as Rowan.


    Rowan didn¡¯t press him further, sensing Kael''s mood, but as Kael opened his system interface, something caught his eye. At the bottom of the screen, two new buttons appeared, both marked with ¡®STEAL TALENT.¡¯


    His heart skipped a beat as he focused on them, his mind racing.


    One option was labeled [PERMANENTLY STEAL TALENT] and the other [STEAL TALENT].


    The difference was clear: the first would strip the talent from the person he stole it from permanently, while the second allowed him to steal the talent without taking it from them.


    Kael¡¯s lips curled into a maddened grin, his eyes gleaming with wild determination. ¡®What? My steal ability is back¡­ and it got an upgrade.¡¯ His hands shook as he read over the options.


    ¡®I can now have the talent of the world¡¯s strongest man. What could be better than that? Hahahaha!¡¯


    Without hesitation, Kael pressed the second button¡ª[STEAL TALENT].


    The transformation was immediate. His entire body convulsed, his muscles spasming in agony as the new power surged through him. His mind twisted in pain, his senses overwhelmed by the force of the talent being ripped from Rowan and transferred to him. But Kael gritted his teeth, enduring it, refusing to flinch even as his bones seemed to shift and his blood seemed to burn.


    When it finally stopped, the pain faded, leaving Kael standing there, breathing heavily but with a newfound clarity. His body felt different¡ªstronger, faster, more controlled. He smiled, a wicked, satisfied grin spreading across his face.


    "But I feel alright now," he muttered to himself, his voice now steadier. ¡°I should go apologize to him,¡± he said, glancing at Rowan, who was watching him closely.


    Rowan, sensing the change, smiled and gave a small nod of approval. ¡°Good. Now go and get stronger, tiger. The world needs a powerful swordsman.¡±


    Kael¡¯s grin only grew wider as he turned to leave.


    ¡®And a powerful swordsman they will receive,¡¯ he thought, his confidence surging with the newfound power coursing through his veins. The world better be ready for what was coming.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 The " Real " Kael

    Kael stood on the training grounds, his chest rising and falling with anticipation. His eyes locked on Edward, the swordsman who had, up until now, dismissed him as little more than a spoiled brat. Edward raised his sword casually, the steel gleaming in the sunlight, his stance relaxed, confident in his ability to handle anything Kael could throw at him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s begin,¡± Edward said, his voice steady, barely a trace of concern in it.


    Kael didn¡¯t hesitate. In the blink of an eye, he sprinted forward, his boots pounding the dirt with a sharp thud, thud, thud. His movements were quick, deliberate, his mind focused like never before. He could see every shift in Edward¡¯s posture, every angle of his body, the slight tilt of his head, the way his feet were positioned. The weak spots were as clear as day. Kael¡¯s grin twisted into something darker as he closed the gap in a flash.


    The first strike came faster than Edward anticipated. Kael swung his sword in a wide arc, aiming directly at Edward¡¯s left side. The sound of metal slicing through the air.


    *Whoooosh*


    Edward barely had time to react, but instinctively, he raised his sword to parry, the clash of their blades ringing out with a resounding.


    *CLANG*


    The impact was stronger than he expected, the shock of it vibrating up his arm. He stepped back, eyes narrowing as he looked at Kael.


    ¡®Something¡¯s different,¡¯ Edward thought, his grip tightening on his sword. He hadn¡¯t expected this level of intensity so early in the fight. He adjusted his stance, anticipating the next move.


    Kael didn¡¯t wait. His next strike came immediately¡ªa thrust aimed for Edward¡¯s midsection. The sound of the sword cutting through the air.


    *SWWOOSH*


    *CLANG*


    As it collided with Edward¡¯s blade. The force behind the strike was substantial, but Edward redirected the attack with a quick flick of his wrist, deflecting Kael¡¯s sword just inches from his chest.


    But Kael wasn¡¯t done. He was relentless, his strikes coming faster and with more precision. Each slash felt heavier, each parry more controlled. The sound of metal clashing echoed through the grounds


    *CLANG, CLANG, CLANG*


    As the two swordsmen danced across the training field.


    Edward, still underestimating Kael¡¯s abilities, countered each strike with ease, his movements fluid, his experience evident. But Kael was faster now, his body moving with a newfound fluidity, his attacks landing with more force. Every time Edward deflected, Kael was already in position for the next strike, his blade cutting through the air with a deadly.The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    *SWWOOOSH*


    Edward¡¯s eyes widened as he finally noticed the difference. ¡®He¡¯s not just reacting. He¡¯s anticipating. He¡¯s... reading me.¡¯ The realization hit him like a cold splash of water. The boy was no longer the brat he had dismissed. Kael was becoming a threat.


    Kael¡¯s sword moved in a deadly arc, a whistling sound preceding the blade¡¯s deadly path. Edward raised his sword to block, but Kael feigned the attack, pulling his sword back and shifting his weight to deliver a quick thrust towards Edward¡¯s lower right side. The sword made a sharp


    * CLINK *


    It scraped off Edward¡¯s armor.


    Edward grunted, surprised by Kael¡¯s unpredictability, but he quickly regained his composure. With a growl, he launched himself forward, meeting Kael¡¯s attack head-on.


    The two swordsmen collided in a flurry of strikes, their blades moving so quickly that the sound of metal striking metal was almost continuous¡ªa relentless visual of raw power meeting raw power.


    But Kael, now fully in tune with the flow of the battle, saw an opening. As Edward overextended, Kael slid to the side with a swift swish of his feet, his body flowing like water, then swung his blade low in a sweeping motion aimed at Edward¡¯s legs. The sound of the sword cutting through the air was sharp and piercing, a whooosh followed by a crack as Kael¡¯s blade grazed Edward¡¯s thigh.


    Edward jumped back, eyes wide with shock. He had been grazed, a small cut appearing just above his knee. Blood trickled down his leg. It was a small wound, but the fact that Kael had landed a hit sent a jolt of realization through him.


    ¡®Damn it¡­ he¡¯s not just some brat anymore. He¡¯s dangerous.¡¯


    Kael¡¯s eyes gleamed with victory, his breathing steady, the adrenaline coursing through him. He could feel the difference now¡ªhe was stronger, faster, and more in control of his sword than ever before. He adjusted his grip, ready for the next round, as Edward slowly raised his blade, a look of respect starting to form in his eyes.


    ¡°Impressive,¡± Edward admitted, a rare smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. ¡®So this is the real Kael Varyn ''


    Kael smirked, not letting his guard down for a second. ¡°You haven¡¯t seen anything yet.¡±


    ¡°Now that you seem to have an understanding of swordsmanship, let the real training begin,¡± Edward said with a smirk, his eyes glinting with a mix of challenge and approval. He had seen the shift in Kael¡¯s movements, the focus and precision that had replaced his earlier recklessness. Kael had finally stepped up to the plate. Edward adjusted his stance, the air around him seeming to crackle with anticipation.


    Kael stood tall, his grip firm on his sword, a hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. ¡°Bring it on,¡± he said, his voice steady, but his heart raced in excitement. He had finally found his rhythm, his style of fighting, and now it was time to prove it.


    From the roof above, Rowan watched their spar with a soft smile, his arms crossed over his chest. ¡®He finally found his style,¡¯ he thought, his sharp eyes tracking every move. ¡®It¡¯s awfully similar to mine, but that doesn¡¯t matter.¡¯ There was a quiet sense of satisfaction in Rowan¡¯s chest¡ªKael¡¯s growth was something he¡¯d been waiting for. It had taken time, but the boy was starting to show his true potential.


    Rowan vanished, his form dissolving into the air with a swift whoosh, reappearing back in his office. His eyes immediately flicked to the cluttered desk before him. Piles of paperwork were scattered across the surface, and his face twisted into a frown. ¡®I love being Emperor,¡¯ he thought with a hint of sarcasm, ¡®but remind me why I have to do all this paperwork?¡¯ The weight of the responsibilities pressed down on him as he glanced at the stack of documents. ¡®Being the Emperor is one thing. Being a clerk is another.¡¯


    He sighed and rolled up his sleeves, ready to dive into the mountain of work that awaited him, even though his heart wasn¡¯t in it. The paperwork would never end, but neither would his role as the ruler.


    .....


    Meanwhile, Travis had finished reading a book on mana. He closed the ancient tome with a soft thud, his mind buzzing with new knowledge. He now had a full understanding of mana, how it flowed through the world, how it could be harnessed, and how to manipulate it. The mysteries of magic, once elusive, were now clear to him.


    With a satisfied exhale, he placed the book back in its proper place, running his fingers over the worn leather cover. He didn¡¯t linger long, though; his stomach growled in protest.


    ¡®Man, I¡¯m hungry as fuck,¡¯ he thought with a chuckle, but his smile faded as he remembered the one problem: ¡®Sadly, I have no money to buy something to eat.¡¯


    As he walked through the halls of the castle, the familiar sounds of footsteps and distant chatter filled the air. But then, his sharp eyes caught sight of something unusual. Down the street, a group of thugs was dragging a man into a dark alley. Travis¡¯s lips curled into a knowing smirk. ¡®Well, here¡¯s my chance to make some,¡¯ he thought, already calculating how to turn this situation to his advantage.


    Without hesitation, he slid into the shadows, moving quietly, his footsteps barely a whisper against the stone ground. He had no qualms about using this moment to fill his stomach.


    ¡®A little pickpocketing never hurt anyone,¡¯ he thought, his fingers twitching in anticipation.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Getting New Gear and a Weird Sword

    The thugs cornered the man, pressing him against the grimy wall of the alley. Their knives glinted menacingly in the faint light, each movement a silent promise of violence.


    "Listen," the leader said, his voice low and threatening, "me and my crew are about to be Adventurers, and you don¡¯t want to mess with us, okay? So, give us the money, and we¡¯ll be done here. Alright, man?"


    The man trembled, his hands shaking as he fumbled to pull out a small leather sack. "Okay, here¡ªtake all my money. Just... just leave me alone," he stammered, thrusting the sack forward.


    The leader grabbed it with a smug grin. "Smart choice," he sneered, motioning for his crew to step back. The man bolted, panic in his every step.


    As he ran out of the alley, he nearly collided with Travis, who sidestepped smoothly, his expression unreadable.


    "Wow, they''re quick," Travis thought as he watched the man disappear into the crowded street. Turning, he strolled into the alley, his hands casually tucked into his pockets.


    "Hey, guys," he called out, his tone almost friendly. The thugs spun around, startled by his sudden presence.


    "What you got there?" Travis asked, nodding toward the sack of money.


    Before the leader could reply, Travis had already snatched the sack from his grasp and returned to his original spot, inspecting it with casual interest.


    The leader stared at his empty hand, dumbfounded. "How the hell did you do that?!" he roared, his voice echoing off the narrow walls.


    Travis didn¡¯t answer. He turned on his heel and began to walk away.


    "Get him!" the leader barked, and the group surged forward.


    But then they froze. A suffocating wave of pressure filled the air, halting them in their tracks. The sensation was indescribable¡ªan instinctive, primal fear that warned of death itself. Their instincts screamed at them to retreat, and they obeyed, stumbling backward as Travis continued his leisurely pace.


    He flipped open the sack, counting its contents as he walked. "So, this is their currency," he mused, examining a silver coin. "Pretty cool, I guess."


    Emerging from the alley, he made his way to a small restaurant, its warm glow inviting against the chill of the night. After ordering a modest meal, Travis leaned back in his seat, his mind wandering.


    "What now?" he thought, his gaze fixed on the flickering lantern hanging above the counter. "I¡¯m done with the coliseum. No reason to stick around here any longer."


    He drummed his fingers against the table. "Yeah, I¡¯ll leave tomorrow. Just need to grab a map first. I know where to find one."


    His food arrived, the aroma pulling him briefly from his thoughts. Taking a bite, he let the flavors distract him while his plan for the next day solidified in his mind.


    While Travis ate his food, savoring the fleeting moments of peace, the soft chime of the restaurant door opening caught his attention. A group of armored guards entered, their boots clinking against the wooden floor as they scanned the room. Their gazes locked onto him, and they approached with a sense of purpose.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "You," one of them said curtly. "Come with us."


    Travis sighed, his appetite souring. "I can''t even eat peacefully in this fuckin'' world," he thought, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. Reluctantly, he stood and followed them out.


    The guards led him through the town, past bustling streets and into a grand building that seemed out of place in the otherwise modest settlement. Inside, the walls were lined with ornate tapestries and polished wood, exuding an air of authority. They stopped before a large set of double doors and pushed them open, revealing a spacious office.


    At the center sat a man on a throne-like chair, draped in fine fabrics that screamed wealth and power. His posture was relaxed, almost too casual, as he regarded Travis with a calculating gaze.


    "He looks like a dictator," Travis thought, unimpressed.


    "Travis," the man said, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Our coliseum star who managed to walk out alive. It¡¯s nice to finally meet you."


    Travis''s memory jogged. During the chaos of the coliseum fights, he recalled spotting a group of spectators seated in a private viewing room above the arena. This man had been one of them.


    "Yeah, nice to meet you too... guy in a big chair," Travis said, his tone indifferent. "So, what do you want from me?"


    The man chuckled, leaning forward slightly. "It¡¯s nothing much, really. Allow me to introduce myself¡ªI am Matthew Osborne, the leader of this fine town. I have a proposition for you."


    Travis raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to continue.


    "You see," Matthew said, gesturing lazily with one hand, "this town lacks excitement. There¡¯s no ambition here, no dreams, just a bunch of losers going about their dull lives. Frankly, I find it boring. But you? You¡¯re different. You have something special. I¡¯d like you to stay here as this town¡¯s voluntary adventurer." He smiled, as if his offer was irresistible. "I heard you passed the adventurer¡¯s exam¡ªcongratulations, by the way. So, what do you say?"


    Travis didn¡¯t hesitate. "No."


    Matthew¡¯s grin faltered, his expression momentarily blank.


    "But," Travis added, "since I¡¯m going to be an explorer and all, I¡¯ll mention your town when I¡¯m out there. Might get you a bit more traffic, maybe even some recognition."


    Matthew¡¯s face lit up, his disappointment replaced with enthusiasm. "I like the sound of that! Yes, yes, if you spread the word about us, we¡¯ll attract visitors. Maybe even residents! This town could rise back to its former glory!" He clapped his hands together. "So, what do you need from us in exchange for this announcement?"


    "Not much," Travis replied, smirking. "A map of the entire region and some decent equipment for the road. That should do it."


    "You¡¯ve got yourself a deal!" Matthew said, standing abruptly. "Guards, show this man our finest adventuring equipment and a detailed map immediately!"


    As the guards hurried to fulfill the order, Matthew leaned back in his chair, his mind racing with possibilities. "If we impress the tourists, they might even want to stay here. Then we won¡¯t have to live in this depressing town anymore," he thought, excitement brimming in his eyes.


    Travis gave a casual nod. "Pleasure doing business with you," he said as he turned to leave, the faintest hint of a smirk on his face.


    Travis was led to a room filled with various equipment, neatly organized on racks and shelves. The guards watched as he inspected the selection with a critical eye.


    His attention landed on a set of sleek silver armor. The craftsmanship was impeccable, each piece polished to a mirror finish. He selected armor for his shoulders and arms, its design simple yet elegant, with subtle engravings that shimmered faintly under the light. Matching armor for his legs caught his eye next, lightweight yet durable. Finally, he spotted a long black drape hanging from a hook, its fabric smooth and heavy. He fastened it over his shoulders, letting it flow down his back and partially cover his face like a shadowy veil.


    He rolled his shoulders and flexed his arms, testing the fit. The armor moved with him effortlessly, as if it were a second skin. "Great," he thought, satisfied. "Now let¡¯s look for a sword."


    The guards led him down a narrow hallway to a weapons room. As soon as Travis stepped inside, his gaze was drawn to a particular cabinet in the corner. A pitch-black blade rested within, its surface dull and unassuming compared to the polished weapons surrounding it. Yet something about it pulled at him, an invisible thread tying him to the weapon.


    He approached the cabinet, his footsteps echoing softly. When he opened the glass door and wrapped his hand around the hilt, a strange sensation coursed through him. The blade hummed faintly, as though alive, and he felt his mana being siphoned away. It wasn¡¯t overwhelming¡ªjust a steady drain¡ªbut he barely noticed, his reserves vast enough to handle it without effort.


    "Wow," he thought, marveling at the sword. "This thing would probably kill a normal guy. Thanks for the mana pool, Xavier."


    The guards exchanged uneasy glances. "You sure you want that one?" one of them asked hesitantly.


    Travis turned to face them, the blade resting comfortably in his hand. "Yeah, why? Is it cursed or something?"


    The guards shook their heads quickly. "No, no. Just checking. Are you done?"


    "Yeah, that¡¯s it. I¡¯m done," he replied, sliding the blade into a scabbard he found nearby.


    Before leaving, he returned to Matthew Osborne to exchange a few parting words. The leader tried once more to convince him to stay, but Travis declined politely and left, heading straight back to the house.


    The restaurant and his unfinished meal were forgotten. Upon arriving, he tossed his new gear onto the bed, its weight causing the old mattress to creak.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed, Travis unfolded the map he¡¯d been given. It was worn and faded, the edges frayed from years of use, but it served its purpose. His eyes traced the routes and landmarks, planning his journey.


    "Yep, tomorrow¡¯s the day," he thought. "Finally leaving this hellhole."


    Stretching, he leaned back, his body sinking into the mattress. "Should probably get some rest before I head out."


    The room fell silent, save for the faint rustle of the map as it fluttered in the breeze coming through the window.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 A Vow

    A few hours later, Evan returned and found Travis lounging on the couch, staring blankly at the ceiling, clearly lost in thought. The faint hum of activity outside filled the silence as Evan set his bag down and greeted him. Without waiting for a response, he headed to the shower, the sound of water soon echoing through the small house.


    When Evan came back, his hair damp and a towel slung over his shoulders, he sat beside Travis.


    "So, how was your day?" Evan asked, his tone casual but curious.


    "It was alright, bro," Travis replied, shifting slightly to face him. "Got my Adventurer card and some equipment for my journey. I plan on leaving tomorrow if that''s not a problem with you?"


    Evan blinked, surprised by the abrupt announcement. "Oh, leaving so soon? Well, no, I don¡¯t mind. No use wasting your time here. I should pack you some things for your journey," he offered, standing up with a hint of reluctance.


    "No, there''s no need, but thank you, Evan." Travis hesitated for a moment, then added, "I''d like to ask something, though. What happened to your little brother, Evan?"


    The question hung heavy in the air, catching Evan off guard. His expression tightened for a moment, and he let out a deep breath.


    "Oh, so you saw my book, didn¡¯t you?" he asked, his voice quiet.


    Travis nodded, recalling the moment he stumbled upon the worn journal while tidying up. It had been a curious find, and being who he was, Travis couldn¡¯t resist flipping through its pages. It turned out to be Evan¡¯s personal diary¡ªa window into his private pain.


    Evan sat back down, his face shadowed with a mixture of grief and anger. "Well, it¡¯s not really much of a story," he began, his voice tinged with bitterness. "He went to the Coliseum, hoping to grow stronger and become an adventurer. At first, things went well. He won every fight, became the crowd favorite. They even offered him a room at the VIP room inside, claiming they wanted to keep him safe since he¡¯d made enemies through all the betting fights."


    He paused, his hands clenching into fists. "In a way, they weren¡¯t lying. But what he didn¡¯t know was that those accommodations came with a price. After ten straight losses, he was in debt¡ªso much so that he became the Coliseum¡¯s property.


    "I don¡¯t blame the Coliseum entirely. He was naive, thinking his talent alone could pay his way in a world where nothing is free. Fight after fight, he tried to win back his freedom. Five months later, I decided to go watch one of his matches, clueless about what he¡¯d been enduring. I thought I was going to cheer him on, but instead¡­" Evan¡¯s voice cracked.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    He looked down, unable to meet Travis¡¯s gaze. "He died. Right there, in front of me. They killed him, and the crowd cheered. Everyone thought it was just another spectacle. Just entertainment. No one cared¡ªexcept me."


    Travis felt a chill run down his spine, the weight of Evan¡¯s words sinking in. This world was brutal, far crueler than he¡¯d anticipated, though he knew it wasn¡¯t entirely foreign.


    "¡¯But I guess we¡¯re not much better with MMA fights and the like,¡¯" he thought. "¡¯The rules make it seem civilized, but the cruelty is still there.¡¯"


    The silence between them grew heavy. Unable to find the right words, Evan abruptly stood and walked to his room. Travis watched him leave, his heart heavy with sympathy and anger.


    A muffled sound broke the quiet. Evan was crying. Alone in his room, he fell to his knees, clutching at the memories that haunted him, his tears falling freely.


    Feeling the weight of it all, Travis decided to step outside for some air. The chill of the evening hit him as he opened the door. His eyes instinctively lifted, and there it stood¡ªthe Coliseum, a dark, looming silhouette against the night sky.


    "If only I had the power," Travis thought, his fists tightening, "I¡¯d destroy this whole place in the blink of an eye."


    ....


    The very next morning, Travis woke up before the first rays of sunlight kissed the horizon. He dressed in his armor, the leather creaking softly as he buckled the straps. Slinging his bag over his shoulder, he paused only to place a small pouch of coins on the table¡ªpayment for the kindness he hadn¡¯t asked for but deeply appreciated.


    The house was silent, the world outside still wrapped in the tranquility of dawn. He glanced back once before stepping outside, shutting the door behind him with a quiet finality.


    The streets were empty, save for a few early risers tending to chores or opening shops. Travis made his way toward the town¡¯s gates, his boots crunching against the cobblestone. As he approached the exit, the towering silhouette of the Coliseum caught his eye, its dark presence a stain against the soft glow of the rising sun.


    He stopped, turning to face it fully, and a faint, determined smile curved his lips.


    "I¡¯ll burn that place down one day. That¡¯s a promise, Evan," he thought before turning back and stepping out of the town, leaving it behind but carrying its scars with him.


    A few hours later, Evan woke to the morning light streaming through the window. He rubbed his eyes, his body heavy from the restless sleep of the night before. As he sat up, his gaze landed on the pouch of coins left on the table. A faint frown crossed his face as he walked over, picking it up and feeling its weight in his hand.


    Beside it, a folded piece of paper caught his attention. He unfolded it carefully, his eyes scanning the lone sentence written in Travis''s bold handwriting:


    "It¡¯s not your fault."


    Evan stared at the note, his throat tightening as the words sank in. They were simple yet carried a weight that pressed against his chest. He sat down, the note trembling slightly in his hand, and let out a shaky breath.


    For the first time in years, the guilt that had chained him felt a little lighter.


    In another location, Travis was already miles away from Valorim, the town shrinking into the distance as he climbed a grassy hill. The wind whispered through the tall blades of grass, carrying with it the faint sounds of morning life awakening in the valley below. He paused at the crest of the hill, turning to take in the view.


    The town, bathed in the golden light of the rising sun, looked almost idyllic. The cobblestone streets and neatly arranged buildings gave it a rustic charm, the kind of place someone might call home if not for the dark shadow looming at its heart. The Coliseum stood out like a wound on the town¡¯s beauty, a cruel reminder of its tainted history.


    Travis narrowed his eyes, a flicker of disdain crossing his face. But as he took a deep breath, he let the anger settle, replacing it with resolve. Ignoring the Coliseum and the bitter memories tied to it, he could admit the town had its charm.


    "Valorim," he muttered under his breath, letting the name linger in the air. This wasn¡¯t the last time he¡¯d see it. No, far from it.


    As he turned away, his hand instinctively brushed the hilt of his weapon. His eyes burned with determination as he gazed toward the horizon, where endless possibilities awaited.


    "The next time I step foot in this town," he thought, his jaw tightening, "I¡¯ll be the strongest to ever live."


    With that silent vow, Travis continued his journey, his silhouette disappearing into the morning light, leaving Valorim and its shadows behind¡ªfor now.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Traveling Sucks

    Where was he headed, you might ask? Travis was making his way to a town called Eldermoor. Currently, he was traversing the main continent of the Golden Empire. By his own estimation, he was about 10 kilometers from the capital. Of course, that was just a guess¡ªhis map was outdated, and he wouldn¡¯t know the precise distance until he got a more accurate one.


    "Well, it doesn¡¯t matter," he thought, tucking the worn map securely inside his armor. He could¡¯ve hired a carriage to make the journey faster, but that defeated the purpose of his trek.


    He was here to fight monsters, test his mettle, and perhaps grow stronger in the process. Walking allowed him to experience the world more intimately¡ªand to find those challenges along the way.


    The map rested snugly against the protective inner lining of his armor, where it wouldn¡¯t tear or get lost. He patted his chest once for good measure, ensuring it was secure, before his gaze shifted to the sword hanging by his side. Drawing it in one smooth motion, he admired the gleam of the blade under the midday sun.


    "I hope this one lasts," he mused, frowning slightly as he turned it over in his hand. His previous weapons had been less reliable. This one had its own quirks, though¡ªspecifically, its habit of draining his mana.


    "Weird, but at least I have plenty of it," he thought, sliding the sword back into its sheath with a satisfying click.


    The road stretched before him, a meandering path flanked by rolling meadows and distant hills. The scenery was breathtaking, the kind of view people in his old world would pay small fortunes to experience. Wildflowers dotted the roadside, swaying gently in the breeze, and the air was rich with the earthy scent of nature.


    As he walked, his thoughts drifted to the stories he¡¯d read about this place. Specifically, the tale of the Vermillion King¡ªa mysterious figure who was said to have arrived in this world from another realm.


    "Does that mean there are other worlds besides this one?" he wondered. It wasn¡¯t such a far-fetched idea, especially in a place where gods were an accepted part of reality.


    "But why don¡¯t they help the people here?" he thought, his brow furrowing slightly.


    The question lingered as he continued his journey, his boots crunching softly against the gravel path, the vibrant beauty of the world around him a stark contrast to the mysteries that gnawed at his mind.


    After a few hours, Travis found himself at a pathway that wove through a dense forest, its entrance marked by towering trees with gnarled roots spilling across the ground. Something about the place felt peculiar, almost surreal.


    "They look like those trees you drive past during a long road trip," he mused, glancing at his map to confirm his location. The path was still correct, and it seemed there was no other way forward. "Guess I¡¯ve got to go through this," he thought, folding the map and tucking it securely back into his armor.


    He stepped into the forest cautiously, the shade from the thick canopy casting dappled patterns along the ground. The air here felt different¡ªheavier, yet strangely alive with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant bird calls. Instinctively, he heightened his senses, expanding his awareness. The world around him sharpened as he focused. He could hear the snap of twigs underfoot, the faint rustle of small creatures scurrying in the underbrush, and even the fluttering of wings high above him. His enhanced perception extended to a radius of 5 kilometers, a skill he¡¯d honed but still found a little disconcerting at times.


    Within that radius, he detected movement¡ªseveral entities clustered together deeper in the forest. They weren¡¯t goblins; he could tell by their minimal mana signatures. "Monsters," he thought. "But what kind?" The question lingered in his mind, pulling at his curiosity. He paused, considering his options.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    "Should I go check them out?" He hesitated, recalling the trouble his curiosity had caused him before. But despite the warning echoing in his mind, his legs were already moving. Curiosity won, as it often did.


    With practiced ease, he leapt from tree to tree, moving soundlessly through the forest. The branches creaked faintly under his weight, but his movements were fluid, deliberate. As he neared the group of creatures, he finally got a clear view of them. A cluster of small, blue, gelatinous slimes wobbled aimlessly in a clearing below.


    "Rimuru?" he thought with a chuckle, the sight of the adorable creatures almost comical. They didn¡¯t look dangerous¡ªfar from it, actually. Pulling out his sword, Travis dropped into the clearing, landing lightly on his feet. With a swift series of movements, he pierced each slime''s core, the creatures dissolving into a harmless puddle of goo with each strike.


    The fight, if it could even be called that, was over in seconds. He sighed, sheathing his sword. "Well, that was lackluster," he muttered, turning back toward the path. The slimes hadn¡¯t posed a challenge at all.


    Hours of walking stretched ahead of him, the forest seeming endless. The sun, though obscured by the thick canopy, was beginning its descent, casting longer shadows. "Wonder when I¡¯ll get to the end of this," he thought, his expression souring. "Probably tomorrow if I¡¯m being painfully honest."


    Though he could¡¯ve run and sped up the journey, something deep within him insisted he move calmly, cautiously. A nagging feeling whispered that rushing through this forest might invite dangers far greater than slimes. Trusting his instincts, he pressed on, his steps steady, his senses still heightened as the forest enveloped him in its eerie, timeless embrace.


    After some time, the sun dipped completely below the horizon, and the forest was plunged into an inky darkness. The only sounds were the occasional rustle of leaves and distant animal calls. Travis found a small clearing and sat on a sturdy log. He quickly gathered some dry wood and, with a few sparks of mana, ignited a campfire. The warm glow pushed back the oppressive darkness, offering a sense of security in the otherwise eerie forest.


    "I should probably get some rest," he thought, unrolling his sleeping bag close to the fire. He lay down, staring up at the faint silhouettes of the treetops. The crackling flames provided a soothing rhythm, and soon he drifted off into a deep sleep.


    ---


    In the dead of night, a creaking carriage rolled along the narrow forest path. The carriage was modest, its sides reinforced with wooden panels. The horses pulling it were outfitted with glowing crystal-mounted headlamps, which cast beams of light that cut through the pitch-black forest. Inside the carriage, a group of men sat in low conversation, their voices hushed as if wary of disturbing the silence of the woods.


    Suddenly, one of the men, a wiry figure with a sharp nose, sniffed the air. The faint scent of recently extinguished fire reached his nostrils. "Stop the carriage," he said, his voice low but firm. The driver tugged the reins, and the carriage came to a halt with a soft creak.


    The man stepped off the carriage, his boots crunching against the gravel. "There was a fire nearby," he muttered, his eyes narrowing. Using a surge of aura, he enhanced his sight, allowing him to see through the darkness. His sharp gaze swept the area until it landed on a faint shimmer in the distance¡ªan aura that pulsed faintly, unguarded and exposed.


    "There¡¯s someone camped in the woods," he said, turning back to the others. "Let¡¯s see if they need assistance."


    The men exchanged glances but nodded, following him into the forest. They moved quietly, stepping over roots and avoiding the underbrush where possible. The faint glow of embers soon came into view, and they found themselves in a small campsite.


    Travis lay sprawled on the ground, completely unaware of their presence. His breathing was steady, his expression serene. As the lead man stepped closer, his boot came down on a dry twig with a sharp crack.


    ---


    The sound jolted Travis awake instantly. His eyes snapped open, and in a fluid motion, he launched himself off the ground. In mid-air, he slipped out of his sleeping bag and unsheathed his sword in one seamless motion.


    *BWOOHH*


    The blade erupted in a blaze of crimson flames, the sudden light illuminating the forest like a beacon. The raging fire hissed and crackled, its heat palpable even from a distance.


    For a split second, Travis stared at the flaming sword, startled by the sudden ignition. But he quickly shook off the surprise, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the group of men standing in the glow of his weapon.


    " What the fuck!?" he said, his voice groggy but laced with irritation. Realizing how rough he sounded, he cleared his throat and straightened his posture. This time, his voice came out deeper, more commanding. "I said, who the hell are you?"


    The lead man raised his hands, palms open, signaling peace. His expression remained calm despite the blazing weapon aimed in their direction. "Easy there, kid. Sorry for startling you. We¡¯re just travelers passing through. Thought you might need some help."


    Travis didn¡¯t lower his weapon immediately. His eyes bore into the man, his instincts flaring. He extended his senses, gauging the stranger¡¯s aura. The man¡¯s energy was steady and strong¡ªstronger than his own, though not overwhelmingly so.


    "Help, huh?" Travis muttered, still gripping his sword tightly. His fiery blade cast flickering shadows across the men¡¯s faces, making their features hard to read. "Why the hell would you stop to help a stranger in the middle of nowhere?"


    The man maintained his calm demeanor, though a faint smile tugged at his lips. "Call it common courtesy¡ªor just curiosity. You don¡¯t exactly see people camping out alone in a place like this," he said. "But it¡¯s up to you if you want to trust us or not."


    Travis frowned, his eyes darting between them. Though his instincts didn¡¯t sense immediate danger, he kept his sword ablaze. "Fine," he said eventually, lowering the blade slightly. "But try anything funny, and I¡¯ll burn you where you stand."


    The man nodded, his expression unwavering. "Fair enough, kid. Fair enough."


    TO BE CONTINUED

 First Kills

    So he sheathed his sword, and the air around him seemed to grow heavier, the once lively forest now shrouded in an unnatural darkness. The trees, once bathed in moonlight, were now silhouettes, their branches swaying like dark, reaching fingers. A chilling silence followed as the forest seemed to hold its breath.


    The others that had come with him quickly conjured light orbs, their warm glow flickering like tiny stars, dispersing across the carriage and casting eerie shadows on the men. The contrast between the cold dark and the warm lights made the scene feel both unsettling and surreal.


    ¡°How did you find me?¡± Travis asked, his voice tinged with suspicion, his narrowed eyes scanning them all. His hand subtly rested on the hilt of his sword, the faintest hint of a threat in the gesture.


    ¡°Well, you should learn how to suppress your mana while you''re unconscious. It''ll help you if you''re planning on being an Adventurer,¡± Mike said, his tone casual, as if offering friendly advice. ¡°But let¡¯s not talk about that. Are you in need of any essentials right now?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, man, I¡¯m pretty hungry,¡± Travis replied, the words barely leaving his mouth when his stomach growled loudly, echoing in the small space. The sound was so sudden and intense that the men flinched, sweat forming on their brows as their eyes darted nervously to each other.


    "Wow, you have such a weird stomach, no offense though," Mike said, a nervous chuckle escaping his lips. "Well, we have food back in the carriage if you want. Also, what''s your name? Oh, my name¡¯s Mike,¡± he added, stepping forward, extending his hand.


    ¡°Travis,¡± the young man responded shortly, nodding stiffly as he shook Mike¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Well, Travis, why don¡¯t we go back to the carriage and have some food?¡± Mike suggested. ¡°Then we¡¯ll discuss whether or not you can travel with us.¡±


    Travis didn¡¯t say anything more. He gathered his belongings and followed the group back to the carriage. The interior was cramped, filled with rough-looking men sitting on benches or standing, their eyes momentarily glancing at him as he entered. He nodded to them in greeting before sitting near Mike, who immediately reached for a bowl of steaming food.


    ¡°Alright, then,¡± Mike said, pushing the bowl toward him. ¡°Here¡¯s some food. Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s not poisoned. But I¡¯m sure you won¡¯t trust me if I just say that, right?¡±If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡°No, not really. I wouldn¡¯t care if you poisoned me,¡± Travis replied bluntly, taking the bowl and digging in. The warmth of the food spread through him as he wolfed it down, the hunger from his long travels finally being sated.


    Mike chuckled quietly, sitting back and watching him eat. He had saved himself the trouble of convincing Travis that it wasn¡¯t poisoned, and was oddly amused by the boy¡¯s lack of concern.


    After a few minutes, Travis set the empty bowl aside, his hunger finally appeased. ¡°Good,¡± Mike said, stretching lazily. ¡°Now tell us, where are you headed, Travis? I¡¯m curious. A kid like you, traveling all alone...¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m headed to Eldermoor for now,¡± Travis said, his voice steady, though his thoughts were racing. He paused, taking another pot of food and continuing to eat. ¡°But my main goal is the Capital.¡±


    ¡°Wow, so you¡¯re headed to the hub?¡± Mike raised an eyebrow. ¡°You know, if you travel by foot, you''ll arrive there in a couple of months, right?¡±


    ¡°Nope. I¡¯ve never been outside my village,¡± Travis answered, a slight twitch in his eye betraying the lie. It wasn¡¯t true, but he needed an alibi, something to avoid further prying.


    ¡°Ah, so you¡¯re a country bumpkin,¡± Mike said, almost with a hint of amusement, sighing as if the situation were somehow a disappointment.


    Travis froze, his grip tightening around the bowl. ¡®Wait, I don¡¯t want to go down this road,¡¯ he thought.


    ¡®I need to ditch these guys. I¡¯m not going to make my journey clich¨¦.¡¯ He pushed the bowl aside, then asked for some water, his mind already plotting his next move.


    One of the men passed him a glass, and Travis gulped it down in one go, letting out a satisfied sigh.


    "Haaa... Well, thanks for the help. The food was good. See you all when I do," he said, standing up from the bench.


    He started to head for the door when suddenly, a masked man lunged at him, grabbing his arm and yanking him back into the seat.


    ¡°You think we¡¯d just let you leave after eating all our food?¡± the masked man growled. ¡°How about some payment? You¡¯ve got nice gear on you,¡± Mike said, his voice low and serious now. He tapped one of his men, who handed him a gleaming silver dagger.


    ¡°This old gear?¡± Travis scoffed, eyeing the dagger with disdain. ¡°It¡¯s not even worth that dagger of yours,¡± he said, slumping back into his seat, a smirk playing on his lips.


    The men around him slowly drew their weapons, their eyes cold. Travis¡¯ stomach tightened, the air thickening with tension. ¡°Wow, I didn¡¯t expect that. So what are you guys, anyway?¡± he asked, his voice deceptively calm.


    ¡°Well, we¡¯re just ordinary guys who do thievin¡¯ for a living,¡± Mike replied casually, as though explaining a job.


    ¡°Thugs. You all are thugs. Just say that instead of trying to sound like philosophers,¡± Travis shot back, his voice tinged with sarcasm.


    Mike paused, staring at him for a moment, then shrugged with a surprised look on his face. ¡°Yeah, I guess we are thugs now that I think about it.¡±


    Travis couldn¡¯t help but sigh. He looked around the carriage, counting the number of men. Twelve. Including Mike. His eyes flicked to the door, which was a mere few meters away. He could make a run for it, but they¡¯d be on him in seconds.


    He took a deep breath, his aura flaring as his mana surged through his body. The air seemed to hum with power, and in an instant, Travis drew his sword. The men lunged at him, but he was already gone, moving faster than they could react. In a single fluid motion, his sword sliced through the air, decapitating one of the men in the carriage. Blood splattered across the walls, and the room was filled with the sickening sound of a body hitting the floor.


    '' Fuck that''s disgusting! But i told myself that I''d kill anyone who got in my way ''he thought.


    ¡°Guess I¡¯ll have to fight my way out,¡± Travis muttered, his voice low and steady as he wiped his blade clean, his eyes burning with determination.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Bloody Mess

    Travis moved mana down to his legs, feeling the surge of power in his muscles. In a split second, he was already outside the carriage, the world blurring as he sprinted away, leaving the chaos behind. The cold night air hit his face, but the adrenaline fueled him forward, his heart racing.


    Back inside the carriage, Mike¡¯s gaze was fixed on the head of his fallen comrade, now rolling lifelessly on the floor. A cold chill ran down his spine, and his chest tightened with panic. The men around him were equally stunned, eyes wide, breath shallow. Mike¡¯s mind scrambled to catch up with the situation.


    "What are you doing?! Go get him!!" Mike shouted, his voice sharp and frantic. His men snapped out of their stupor, nodding quickly before rushing toward the carriage¡¯s door.


    They flung themselves out of the carriage, their feet pounding the earth as they chased after Travis. Light orbs flickered into existence, soaring ahead like glowing birds, guiding them through the darkened forest. The soft hum of their magic echoed in the silence before the orbs caught up to Travis, illuminating his figure in the distance.


    Travis glanced back and saw them gaining on him. He felt a surge of resolve wash over him, the fight boiling in his blood.


    ¡®I don¡¯t think running away is the best choice right now,¡¯ Travis thought, his mind racing. He could feel their power, and though they were a threat in numbers, they felt weak compared to his own strength. His smirk grew, and in a single motion, he stopped and turned, ready to face them head-on.


    His grip tightened around the sword, the cold steel now pulsing with his mana, and he charged back at them. The massacre was about to begin.


    The first man lunged at him with a brutal punch aimed at his gut. Travis saw the attack coming, barely a threat in his eyes, and sidestepped with fluid precision. With a swift horizontal slice of his blade, he cut through the man''s hand, the sharp steel tearing through flesh like paper. The man screamed in agony, his grip loosened. Without hesitation, Travis adjusted his stance, using the momentum of the sword¡¯s movement to bring it down onto another man. In a seamless motion, the man¡¯s head was severed, falling clean off his shoulders, blood spraying in an arc.


    The chaos only fueled Travis, and he didn¡¯t stop. He pressed forward, cutting down the next man before he even had a chance to react. The man froze in disbelief as Travis appeared in front of him, his sword glinting in the moonlight. With a single stroke, Travis cleaved the man¡¯s torso in half, the two pieces falling apart with a sickening thud.


    ¡®Good thing I learned how to control the things my sword can cut,¡¯ Travis thought, his grin widening as he dispatched the next man with brutal efficiency. His blade sang through the air, cutting through his next target with a quick, clean slice. The man¡¯s body collapsed in two, split clean down the middle.


    Three down. Travis was moving faster now, the rhythm of battle taking over. He sprinted toward the next man, grabbed his arm, and yanked him in close. Without giving him a moment to struggle, Travis sliced down, his sword cleaving the man¡¯s body in half like it was nothing. The man fell, his blood splattering across the ground as he collapsed.


    Five down. Five left.


    Each strike was faster than the last, Travis weaving through the group with deadly precision. His footfalls were a blur, his blade a whirlwind of destruction. Each man barely had time to react before Travis tore through them. One by one, they fell¡ªvictims to his unrelenting speed and lethal skill.


    As the last man fell to the ground, his blood staining the earth, Travis stood among the bodies. The forest was silent again, the only sound the rustling of leaves in the breeze. He looked down at the lifeless forms, his chest heaving with exertion. His lips curled into a bright smile, not of regret or satisfaction, but of exhilaration.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    He wasn¡¯t laughing because he had killed them. He was laughing because he was having fun. The thrill of the fight, the surge of power, the way everything seemed to slow down when he moved¡ªit was addicting.


    His smirk never faded as he wiped his blade clean, looking around at the carnage he had wrought. It was just another step on his journey, another hurdle overcome. And the best part? He didn¡¯t even break a sweat.


    Travis turned back, ready to sheath his sword, but just as his blade was nearing its scabbard, a sharp whistle cut through the air. A gust of wind followed, and he instinctively dropped to the side, narrowly avoiding the arrow that shot past him with lightning speed. It flew so close that the tip grazed the fabric of his cloak, making him frown in annoyance.


    He stood upright and turned to see Mike emerging from the shadows, his figure slowly becoming visible under the glow of the light orbs. Mike was standing tall, his eyes seething with rage. In his hands was a sleek, well-crafted bow, but it wasn¡¯t just any bow. The arrows he held were made of pure wind, swirling with an ethereal, razor-sharp energy.


    ¡°You killed all my men... and now I¡¯ll kill you,¡± Mike¡¯s voice was a growl, filled with venom and fury. His grip on the bow tightened, his body trembling with suppressed anger.


    Travis didn¡¯t flinch. His expression remained a blank slate, devoid of any emotion as he held his sword firmly, both hands gripping the hilt. His stance was unwavering, as if he had already accepted whatever was coming next.


    ¡®My body reacted on its own there... not sure if I¡¯ll be able to do it again. But I¡¯ll try,¡¯ he thought, his mind focused and calm as he steeled himself for the next move.


    Without warning, Travis surged forward, his body leaving a slight dent in the ground where he had stood just moments before. His speed was a blur, a streak of motion as he closed the distance between him and Mike with frightening velocity.


    Mike¡¯s eyes widened, but he didn¡¯t hesitate. He fired the first wind arrow at Travis, the arrow cutting through the air like a blade of air itself. Travis¡¯ ears rang with the sound of the projectile, his heightened senses taking over. He heard the rush of the wind just before it reached him, and with a quick step to the side, he avoided the attack.


    The next arrow came swiftly, aimed at his chest. With a swift twist of his body, Travis slid beneath the wind-crafted missile, the force of it pushing air into his face, but he was already beyond it. The remaining arrows came too fast for him to track with his eyes, but his ears¡ªhis senses¡ªbecame his guide. His body twisted and dodged effortlessly, sidestepping those that were poorly aimed and using his intuition to avoid the rest.


    His pulse raced as he neared Mike, who was now pulling a dagger from his belt, eyes filled with panic. The moment Mike¡¯s weapon left its sheath, Travis saw an opening. Mike¡¯s desperation showed in the way his hands trembled. He was ready for a block, but it didn¡¯t come. The slash that Mike expected from Travis never arrived. Instead, the air around Mike grew unbearably hot, a scorching wave of heat surrounding his back.


    The flames from Travis'' blade licked at Mike¡¯s skin just before the sword sliced down with terrifying precision. The scorching heat burned through the air as it made contact, searing the very fabric of Mike¡¯s arm. The sword didn¡¯t just cut through¡ªit cauterized the wound as it passed, the fire from the blade incinerating everything in its path. Mike¡¯s arm was severed in a single, fluid motion, the smell of charred flesh filling the air.


    ¡°Ahhhhh!!!¡± Mike¡¯s scream echoed through the night, his knees buckling as the intense pain radiated through his body. His breath came in ragged gasps as he tried to clutch the stump where his arm had once been, but before he could react, Travis was already on him.


    Travis moved with inhuman speed, the fire still crackling around his blade. Without a single moment of hesitation, he slashed his sword again, this time across Mike¡¯s neck. The blade sliced through the air, cutting cleanly through flesh and bone, the sound of it sharp and final. In an instant, Mike¡¯s head was separated from his shoulders, and his body crumpled to the ground, lifeless.


    The light orbs flickered as the last echoes of Mike¡¯s screams faded into the night. Travis stood over the fallen body, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths. A small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he wiped the blood from his blade, the heat from his sword still sizzling in the cool night air. The fight was over. And for Travis, the thrill of it was only beginning.


    "Nothing is going to stand in my way. Not even the lives of people," Travis muttered to himself, his gaze sweeping over the carnage scattered around him.


    The bodies lay twisted and broken, blood pooling in the dirt, the scene nothing short of a nightmare. His words were cold, detached¡ªlike a promise to himself that nothing, no matter how horrific, would halt his progress.


    But as his eyes lingered on the mangled bodies, a wave of nausea rose in his throat. His stomach twisted, a heavy feeling settling in his gut as the scent of blood and burning flesh filled the air. His breath quickened, and before he could even prepare himself, his body betrayed him. He dropped to his knees, hands pressed against the ground, and he vomited. The bile burned as it surged up from his stomach, splattering the dirt beneath him.


    ¡®That¡¯s not to say I¡¯ll ever get used to this...¡¯ he thought, a grimace forming on his face. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, feeling the weight of his own weakness, the aftereffects of the violence still pulsing in his body. ''Fuck... I should just walk with my eyes closed.''


    Despite his words, Travis couldn''t shake the grim reality of what he''d just done. The violence, the bloodshed¡ªit was a part of the path he had chosen. But that didn¡¯t make it any easier to swallow. He took a deep breath, stood up, and forced his gaze back to the bodies. This was the price of his journey, the cost of power and survival. There was no turning back now.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 The Town Of Eldermoor

    He then leaped effortlessly onto a nearby tree branch, his feet finding the solid wood with practiced precision. The branch creaked under his weight, but before it could even sway, he propelled himself higher, launching off with a burst of energy. He soared above the canopy, his body cutting through the morning mist as the treetops fell away beneath him. As he descended, he landed lightly on the broad leaves of the next tree, his mana enveloping him like a second skin, allowing him to balance effortlessly. The leaves barely rustled under his feet, as if the forest itself recognized his control.


    "Haaa..." he exhaled, his gaze shifting toward the horizon. The first rays of dawn were creeping over the distant hills, casting long shadows across the forest floor. From his elevated perch, he could see the dense, sprawling wood stretching out in every direction, but beyond that, the world seemed untouched, a vast expanse of road that went on forever.


    He didn¡¯t hesitate for a second. With a push of his legs, he took off, running atop the branches with breathtaking speed, the wind whipping past his face. His senses sharpened as he moved faster, the trees blurring into streaks of green and brown. He could feel the hum of his mana as it flowed through him, amplifying his movements, keeping him light and fast.


    As the final tree loomed ahead, Travis gathered his momentum, then effortlessly sprang off the last branch, landing atop the next trunk in a single fluid motion. He paused, letting his breath steady, and his eyes swept across the vastness ahead. There was nothing but an empty road that stretched as far as he could see, the horizon seemingly untouched.


    A heavy sigh escaped his lips. ''This¡¯ll take a lot of time,'' he thought, the weight of his journey settling in.


    Despite the speed he could muster, the distance to be covered felt endless, and the road ahead seemed just as lonely as the one he¡¯d already traveled.


    ---


    A whole week passed as Travis continued his journey, the road stretching endlessly before him. He only stopped four times to rest, each break brief but necessary. Food was scarce, but he was fortunate enough to find a few wild fruits along the way. They didn¡¯t satisfy his hunger completely, but they were enough to keep him going, providing just enough energy to push through the next stretch of his journey.


    During his travels, Travis couldn¡¯t help but experiment with his new fire ability. It had come from the sword, a gift or curse he still didn¡¯t fully understand. He knew that it connected to his mana, an idea that made sense, but how the sword was able to summon fire from within him was still a mystery. Every time he wielded the weapon, fire surged through him¡ªsometimes erratic, sometimes controlled, but always powerful. It intrigued him, the way it felt almost like the sword had a mind of its own, guiding him in ways he couldn¡¯t yet comprehend.


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    As the days passed, the landscape around him began to shift. The dense forest gave way to rolling hills, and as he reached the top of one such hill, Travis could see his destination in the distance. The sight made his heart quicken. He squinted at the horizon.


    "That must be Eldermoor. Looks pretty huge," he murmured to himself, admiring the sight of the sprawling city. At its edge, he noticed a massive mountain-like area, towering and imposing beside the town. He wondered what secrets it might hold but quickly dismissed the thought. He was here for a reason¡ªno time for distractions now.


    With steady determination, Travis descended the hill, the town growing larger with every step. When he reached the gates, he showed his adventurer card to the guards. They scrutinized it for a moment before nodding and allowing him entry, a small smile tugging at his lips.


    "This was a gamble," he muttered under his breath as he walked through the gates. "Those assholes back at Valorim didn¡¯t even bother telling me what this card could do."


    He couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. The town reminded him of something from the stories he¡¯d heard, walls towering around the settlement, an imposing barrier separating the city from the unknown. The high walls made him think of Attack on Titan, and he smiled again, shaking his head at the thought.


    As he wandered deeper into Eldermoor, the bustling energy of the city hit him. People filled the streets, shouting, laughing, and moving with purpose. The atmosphere was alive with possibility, and the difference between Eldermoor and Valorim couldn¡¯t have been more striking. The contrast was night and day¡ªthe streets of Valorim had felt quiet, almost somber in comparison.


    Travis wandered through the city, the sounds of merchants peddling their goods and adventurers chatting about their latest hunts filling the air. Eventually, he found what he was looking for: the Adventurer¡¯s Guild. The building was grand and imposing, a stark contrast to the humble guildhouse back in Valorim. It was a beautiful structure, with intricate designs that made the smaller, less impressive guildhouses of his past seem insignificant.


    ''Now this is an Adventurer''s Guild,'' Travis thought, a sense of awe filling him as he stepped through the entrance.


    Inside, the atmosphere was nothing like he had ever seen before. Parties of adventurers filled the space, laughing and enjoying their meals at long wooden tables. The counters were busy with people¡ªsome collecting their rewards, others eagerly picking up new quests. It was a world alive with excitement, and Travis couldn¡¯t help but feel his heart race in anticipation.


    With his eyes wide, he walked toward the assignment board. He could hardly believe what he was seeing¡ªso many jobs, all waiting to be claimed. His excitement mounted as he scanned the board, the sheer volume of opportunities overwhelming.


    ''I better transfer here so I can take my very first job,'' he thought, his face filled with excitement.


    At a nearby table, a group of seasoned adventurers noticed Travis as he walked past, a knowing smile spreading across their faces.


    "A rookie here to make it big," one of them said with a chuckle, shaking his head. "If I had a gold coin for every time I saw one, I''d be a nobleman by now."


    "Same here," another adventurer agreed, leaning back in his chair. "But he''s got decent gear. Must have a little skill, though I can''t sense his mana. He¡¯ll probably last a week, maybe less." He shrugged casually. "As long as he stays out of the Dungeon, of course."


    The first adventurer raised an eyebrow. "If he did, I''d give him a few hours, tops."


    The third adventurer smirked, shaking his head. "I¡¯d give him a second. The place chews through rookies like nothing."


    A pause lingered in the air as the group exchanged glances, the challenge hanging between them like an unspoken dare.


    "Wanna bet?" one of them asked, a playful gleam in his eyes.


    "You got it," came the swift reply, and the group laughed, settling back into their seats with a knowing look. They''d seen it all before¡ªrookies who thought they were ready, only to meet their end in the unforgiving depths of the Dungeon.


    Meanwhile, Travis continued on, unaware of the whispered conversation behind him. He had finally made it to Eldermoor. The possibilities stretched out before him like a vast new world. What adventures awaited him here? Well, that would unfold in time, and whether he was ready or not, he was about to find out.


    TO BE CONTINUED...

 First Job

    As Travis stood in the bustling guild line, he shifted his weight from one foot to the other, his thoughts circling back to his current predicament. The weight of his empty coin pouch pressed heavily against his mind. He had no money for an inn, no immediate plan beyond this moment. A pang of regret surfaced as he thought about leaving all that gold to Evan.


    His gaze dropped to the ground, and he let out a weary sigh. "I¡¯m way too kind for my own good," he mused, dragging his feet as the line inched forward.


    The guild was a hive of activity, its large hall buzzing with energy. Each of the six counters was manned by a clerk, all fully occupied. Adventurers of various ranks and appearances crowded the space¡ªsome were loudly reporting completed quests, others flipping through job postings, while a few stood proudly as they leveled up their ranks. The air was thick with excitement, frustration, and the faint scent of sweat and leather.


    Finally, Travis reached the front of the line. The clerk, a woman with chestnut hair pinned neatly back, greeted him with a warm, professional smile. Her eyes sparkled with practiced kindness as she said, ¡°Hello, sir. How may I help you today?¡±


    Travis returned the smile, though his was faint and tired. ¡°Yes, I¡¯d like to transfer to this guild if possible. I just arrived here from Valorim, and I need to update my registration. Is that something I can do?¡±


    ¡°Why, of course,¡± she replied, her tone unwaveringly welcoming. ¡°I¡¯ll just need your Adventurer card and for you to sign a few documents, all right?¡±


    He nodded, slipping his hand into his pouch to retrieve his card. As he handed it to her, he caught the briefest flicker of a reaction in her expression when she noticed his rank¡ªsomething faint but telling. A slight tightening of her lips, the tiniest arch of an eyebrow. It was enough for Travis to pick up on.


    ¡°They judge you by rank here, huh? Well, whatever. It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± he thought with a resigned shrug to himself.


    The woman quickly regained her composure and turned to grab a set of forms from behind the counter. She placed them in front of Travis, explaining the details as he skimmed through them. He signed each one with steady hands, noting how perfunctory the process felt.


    When it was all done, she slid a new card across the counter toward him. It gleamed faintly under the guild¡¯s lantern light, its design noticeably more ornate than his previous one. The etched patterns on the edges and the subtle weight of the card gave it a sense of importance.


    ¡°Here you go,¡± she said, her tone returning to its polite neutrality.


    Travis held the card between his fingers, studying it for a moment before tucking it into his pouch. ¡°Thank you,¡± Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    She then leaned forward, her tone shifting to one of neutral professionalism. ¡°Let me explain a few things about your card and the opportunities available to you here,¡± she began.


    ¡°First, jobs in the guild are ranked in the same way adventurers are, from D to S. D is the lowest rank, which is self-explanatory, while S is reserved for the most elite. As a rule, you¡¯ll need to complete at least three jobs within your current rank before you become eligible to apply for a promotion to a higher rank. It ensures adventurers gain enough experience and credibility before advancing.¡±


    She held up his new card briefly for emphasis. ¡°Your adventurer card acts similarly to a passport. Depending on your rank, it grants you access to different regions of the world without much hassle. Higher ranks, of course, open more doors and come with privileges that lower ranks may not have. It¡¯s both your identification and proof of your standing as an adventurer.¡±


    She placed the card back down on the counter, her gaze steady as she continued, ¡°Understanding this system will make navigating the guild and the world much easier for you. Do you have any questions about this?¡±


    "Nope, I do not. Thank you for explaining," Travis said with a polite smile.


    The woman nodded curtly, her lips curling into the kind of forced smile that spoke of long hours and thin patience. "Okay, have a nice day then, sir."


    Travis nodded again and stepped away from the counter, his eyes already scanning the guild hall. He made his way to the job board, a massive wooden structure nearly overflowing with parchment. Each piece was stamped and pinned haphazardly, some overlapping others, creating a chaotic collage of quests and requests.


    The sheer variety of jobs was overwhelming at first glance, ranging from simple deliveries to dangerous monster hunts. Travis leaned closer, brushing aside a few higher-ranked notices to reveal the smaller, often-overlooked D-ranked quests buried beneath. After a few minutes of sorting through the clutter, he finally unearthed three options.


    He frowned slightly at the crumpled and faded state of the papers.


    "Guess D-rank jobs don¡¯t get much love," he muttered under his breath. Still, he wasn¡¯t one to be picky.


    '' Alright, '' he thought, scanning the descriptions, '' I need something with a decent payout. Let¡¯s go for the hardest one with the best reward. ''


    One job caught his attention almost immediately. It offered the highest pay of the three¡ªa flower-gathering quest.


    '' Clich¨¦ much?'' he thought, a wry smirk tugging at his lips as he read the details.


    ---


    D-RANKED QUEST: FLOWER GATHERING


    Location: Misty Glade Forest


    Objective: Collect 10 Moonlight Petals


    Reward: 10 Silver Coins


    Details:


    The Misty Glade Forest is home to the rare and beautiful Moonlight Petals. These flowers bloom under the moonlight and emit a soft glow. Your task is to gather 10 intact petals and bring them back to the Guild Hall.


    Warning:


    The forest is known to have roaming beasts. Proceed with caution and ensure you are adequately prepared for combat if necessary.


    Completion:


    Report to the Guild Hall with the petals to claim your reward.


    ¡ª Posted by the Adventurer''s Guild ¡ª


    ---


    Travis rubbed the back of his neck, his smirk fading slightly. "Ten silver coins for picking flowers. Not bad for a D-rank quest," he murmured.


    The warning about roaming beasts gave him pause, but only for a moment. He folded the paper neatly and tucked it into his pouch.


    '' Might as well get started. It¡¯s not like I have much of a choice, '' Travis thought, steeling himself as he headed back to the counter.


    The clerk barely looked up as he approached, her focus seemingly elsewhere.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to take this job,¡± he said, sliding the slightly wrinkled quest paper across the counter.


    She glanced at it briefly before reaching for her stamp. ¡°All right,¡± she replied in a monotone voice, the warmth from their earlier exchange now completely absent. With a quick motion, she stamped the paper, marking it as claimed.


    Handing it back to him, she added without much enthusiasm, ¡°Good luck.¡±


    ¡°Thanks,¡± he replied, his tone dry as he folded the paper and slipped it back into his pouch.


    Without another word, Travis turned and strode toward the exit, his boots echoing softly against the guild¡¯s stone floor. The buzz of activity around him faded into the background as his mind shifted to the task ahead.


    The afternoon sun greeted him as he stepped outside, the warmth contrasting against the cool, crisp air.


    '' Time to be an Adventurer ''


    TO BE CONTINUED

 First Job Complete

    Travis stepped out of the town and onto the dirt path that wound toward Misty Glade Forest. The road stretched ahead, flanked by tall grass and sparse trees, the air growing cooler as he approached the forest¡¯s edge. Just before the treeline, a weathered wooden sign came into view, its bold red letters stark against the faded wood:


    ¡¾ DANGER


    NO NON-ADVENTURERS MAY ENTER ¡¿


    Travis chuckled, shaking his head as he passed the sign without a second thought. He wasn¡¯t particularly strong, nor did he fancy himself a hero, but in a place like this, he felt just confident enough to believe he could handle whatever came his way.


    As he stepped into the forest, the world shifted. The air grew damp, carrying the faint scent of moss and earth. The canopy above filtered the sunlight, casting dappled shadows across the ground. Twisting roots and dense underbrush lined the path ahead, but Travis pressed on, nodding to himself as he recalled the quest details.


    '' All right, time to get to work. From what the description said, they glow. Shouldn¡¯t be too hard to spot, '' he thought, his boots crunching softly against the forest floor.


    He searched diligently, weaving through the trees and scanning the undergrowth for any hint of the luminous petals. Hours slipped by, and his initial optimism began to wane. The forest grew darker as the sun dipped lower in the sky, and his patience was wearing thin.


    Frustrated, Travis finally slumped against a tree, wiping a sheen of sweat from his brow. He let out a long sigh, muttering to himself,


    '' I didn¡¯t think it¡¯d be this hard. Probably one of the reasons no one else wanted the job. ''


    His gaze drifted upward, watching the faint sway of the branches above as he tried to regain his composure. Determined not to leave empty-handed, he pushed himself to his feet.


    ¡°Not giving up that easily,¡± he muttered, brushing off his pants and continuing his search.


    After another hour of wandering, he stumbled across a narrow cave entrance, almost hidden by a thick curtain of ivy. The opening was dark and foreboding, the kind of place most would avoid on instinct. Travis hesitated for only a moment before stepping inside.


    The cave¡¯s cool air wrapped around him as he descended, the faint sound of dripping water echoing through the narrow passage. His footsteps reverberated softly as he ventured deeper, his senses on high alert for any signs of danger. Ten minutes later, the tunnel opened into a small chamber, and there, clinging to the far wall, were the flowers.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Their soft, ethereal glow lit up the darkness, casting a faint silver light across the stone. Moonlight Petals. Dozens of them, more than enough to complete the quest.


    A grin spread across Travis¡¯s face as he stepped forward, pulling out his pouch. ¡°Jackpot,¡± he whispered, plucking the flowers carefully one by one. Their petals were delicate, and he took care not to damage them as he collected more than the required amount.


    Satisfied, he left a handful untouched, partly out of respect for their rarity and partly to ensure the flowers could continue to grow. Slinging his pouch over his shoulder, now filled with the glowing petals, he began the trek back out of the cave.


    '' Well, that was worthwhile, '' he thought, his mood lifted by the successful haul.'' I wonder how much they¡¯ll pay me for bringing extras. ''


    The cave¡¯s entrance loomed ahead, and as he stepped back into the forest, the moonlight greeted him. With renewed energy, he set his sights on returning to the guild and cashing in on his find.


    .......


    Travis dropped all the Moonlight Petals onto the counter with a triumphant smirk, the faint glow of the flowers catching the attention of those nearby. Feeling a swell of pride, he crossed his arms and watched the clerk tally up his haul.


    ¡°Well done,¡± the clerk said, clearly impressed. ¡°You brought in more than what was required. Since these petals are rare, the guild is willing to pay extra for the surplus.¡±


    Travis¡¯s smirk widened. ¡°I won¡¯t say no to that.¡±


    He watched as the money piled up on the counter, silver coins glinting under the warm lantern light. The clerk slid the neatly stacked coins toward him, totaling far more than he¡¯d expected. He scooped them into his pouch, the weight of his earnings bringing a rare sense of satisfaction.


    Turning around, he noticed the guild had grown unusually quiet. Dozens of eyes were on him, their expressions a mix of curiosity, envy, and mild disbelief. Travis, however, didn¡¯t bother meeting their gazes. He walked past them, head held high, and stepped outside into the cool evening air.


    The sun had dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in deep purples and oranges. He stood for a moment, letting the quiet settle around him, when a loud growl from his stomach broke the silence.


    '' Yep, I¡¯m hungry, '' he thought with a sigh.


    He started wandering through the town, scanning the storefronts for a place that could offer both food and lodging. Eventually, his eyes landed on a wooden sign that read:


    ¡¸Glenda¡¯s Inn and Grub¡¹


    The name was as straightforward as it got, and that was enough for him. He pushed the door open, stepping into the cozy interior filled with the hum of chatter and the scent of roasted meat.


    By this point, Travis had 50 silver coins¡ªenough to consider himself fairly well-off.


    The world¡¯s currency system was simple: 100 bronze coins made 1 silver, and 100 silver coins equaled 1 gold. It was easy to understand, even for someone like him.


    Approaching the counter, he rented a room for two weeks at the cost of 9 silver coins. The innkeeper handed him a key and informed him that meals were included with the stay. Grateful for the deal, Travis smiled, pocketed the key, and headed upstairs to check out his room.


    The space was modest but clean, with a middle-sized bed, a sturdy wooden chair, and a small wardrobe. Nodding in approval, he removed his upper body armor and the drape that covered his face, placing them neatly on the bed. The sense of finally having a place to rest, even temporarily, was comforting.


    Hunger soon drew him downstairs, where the inn¡¯s dining area was lively with patrons. He claimed a seat near the corner, and the staff quickly brought him a steaming plate of food. As he ate, he couldn¡¯t help but notice several women sneaking glances at him, their whispers occasionally reaching his ears.


    Travis smirked to himself. '' When was the last time I even talked to a girl? Man, my life sucked before. '' he thought.


    He let the warmth of the meal and the attention fuel his good mood, and as he ate, his mind drifted to planning. He set himself a clear goal: to reach at least Rank B before leaving this town. It wasn¡¯t going to be easy, but that was part of the challenge he was beginning to relish.


    '' I wonder what the minimum level is for a B-rank adventurer, '' he thought, his fingers absently tapping the table. '' Considering the cap in this world is level 1000, I¡¯m still just a frog in a well. ''


    The realization of how far he had to go didn¡¯t discourage him. Instead, it sparked a fire of excitement. The thought of eventually reaching such heights was thrilling, and he couldn¡¯t wait to push his limis and see just how strong he could become.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Promotion

    While Travis ate, the low hum of chatter filled the tavern. A pair of voices behind him caught his attention. He elevated his hearing¡ªa trick he had mastered over time¡ªand focused on their conversation. The tone was casual but carried a weight of unease. He glanced over his shoulder briefly and confirmed his guess¡ªthe two speakers were adventurers, judging by their rugged leather armor and weapons strapped to their sides. He leaned back slightly, careful not to draw attention.


    "Man, I heard they found another dead body in the Dungeon today," one of them said, his voice rough and tired. "How many does that make this week again?"


    "Ten, if I¡¯m not mistaken," the other replied, shaking his head. "When will people understand that the lower levels aren¡¯t a joke? You get rushed by twenty High Goblins, and that¡¯s it. Game over."


    "Most of the groups that go down there have no clue how to fight as a team," the first adventurer said with a scoff. "They don¡¯t train, don¡¯t plan. They just rush in, thinking they¡¯re invincible. That¡¯s what gets them killed. But us?" He chuckled. "We stick to the first few doors. Play it safe, keep our heads down, and we¡¯ll be fine."


    Travis silently absorbed every word. He kept his gaze on his plate but let his thoughts churn.


    ''So that massive mountain looming behind this town is a Dungeon...'' He pieced it together quickly.


    ''I¡¯ve read bits and pieces about Dungeons, but this is the first time I¡¯ve seen one. Seems like a death trap for the reckless. Good thing I have no plans to step inside anytime soon,'' he thought.


    Finishing his meal, he pushed the plate aside and stood, stretching slightly before heading upstairs. The inn¡¯s modest room greeted him with a creak of the floorboards. He stripped off his travel-worn clothes and drew a bath, the warm water soothing the tension in his muscles. As he leaned back against the tub, he let the day¡¯s events replay in his mind.


    Tomorrow¡¯s a new day, he reminded himself. Finish the jobs, apply for a rank promotion, and keep moving forward.


    Drying off, he climbed into bed, letting the comfort of the sheets lull him to sleep. The muffled sound of the tavern below faded, replaced by silence and the distant howl of the wind. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, rest was all he needed.


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    [The next day.]


    Travis awoke before dawn, the room faintly lit by the soft glow of the early morning sky. Stretching off the lingering stiffness of sleep, he moved with precision, checking his gear meticulously. His gloves were snug, his boots well-laced, and his sword securely fastened at his side. Once satisfied, he donned his cloak and made his way downstairs. The tavern was silent, its usual patrons still lost in slumber.


    The crisp morning air greeted him as he stepped outside. The town was just beginning to stir, and the cobblestone streets were bathed in a cool mist. He made his way to the Guild, where the doors had only just been unlocked. Inside, the quiet atmosphere matched the early hour, with only a single clerk at the desk, already busy arranging papers.


    Without hesitation, Travis approached and scanned the job board. He picked his next task¡ªa simple errand to retrieve an item from someone in town and deliver it back to the Guild. It was straightforward enough, and within minutes, he completed the job and collected his payment.


    The final task was equally simple: helping an elderly woman carry her belongings across town. Travis located her and efficiently loaded her items onto a cart. With steady strides and polite conversation, he escorted her to her destination, finishing the task in less than ten minutes. She thanked him profusely, and Travis, always courteous, gave her a nod before returning to the Guild to receive his reward.


    ''Well, time to apply for a promotion,'' he thought, the faintest hint of a grin on his lips.


    Approaching the clerk, he spoke confidently, "Hello, I¡¯d like to register for a rank promotion."


    The clerk glanced up and nodded, sliding a form across the counter. "Please fill this out with your name and details."


    Travis quickly completed the form and handed it back. The clerk reviewed it, gave an approving nod, and disappeared into the back. Moments stretched into minutes before the clerk returned, accompanied by another Guild worker.


    "Follow this person," the clerk instructed. "They¡¯ll oversee your test."


    Travis followed the worker through the Guild and out into the open, his curiosity piqued when they exited the town entirely. The worker stopped in a grassy clearing just beyond the outskirts and handed Travis a paper with a rough sketch of a plant.


    "You are to find and bring back this plant within five hours," the worker explained. "Failure to do so will result in disqualification from the promotion test."


    Travis studied the paper carefully, recognizing the plant almost immediately. A small smile tugged at his lips as he nodded confidently.


    "Begin!" the worker announced, counting down.


    Before the man could process the starting command, Travis had vanished, leaving nothing but a faint gust of wind in his wake.


    The worker blinked in disbelief, scanning the area. "Where did he go?"


    Deep in the forest, Travis navigated with ease, sprinting toward a specific area he¡¯d remembered from a previous exploration. The plant grew in clusters near the entrance of a small cave he had stumbled upon days before. His sharp memory and remarkable speed brought him there within a minute.


    Spotting the plants, he wasted no time, carefully gathering several samples. Satisfied, he turned and dashed back toward the clearing.


    In mere moments, Travis reappeared in front of the worker, the sudden force of his arrival creating a gust of wind that knocked the man backward.


    "Sorry about that," Travis said with an awkward smile, extending the plants toward the worker.


    The man scrambled to his feet, brushing off the dirt and inspecting the plants. After confirming their authenticity, he ticked the completion box on his clipboard, his expression a mix of astonishment and confusion.


    "Test complete," the worker said, still eyeing Travis suspiciously. ''How is a D-rank this fast?'' he wondered but chose not to voice the question.


    Travis simply nodded, his smile growing as he awaited the next step in his promotion process.


    It was now time for his next test, which was similar to the one he took before¡ªa Magic and Physical Test.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon

    Later that day, Travis returned to the Guild, his new supplies tucked away and his thoughts focused on the promotion results. The Guild hall was lively as always, filled with adventurers chatting, sharing stories, and planning their next missions. He found a seat near the edge of the room and leaned back, watching the scene unfold around him.


    Groups of young adventurers laughed and joked with their friends, their camaraderie filling the air. Travis smiled faintly, a bittersweet warmth in his chest.


    '' This kind of life... I always wanted it back on Earth,'' he thought, his gaze distant.


    But the memories of Earth weren¡¯t as kind. For reasons he never understood, he had been an outcast, treated with disdain by those around him. No matter how hard he tried to fit in, he always seemed to fall short. The thought lingered, but he shook it off.


    '' The answer doesn¡¯t matter anymore, '' he thought


    Minutes passed before his name was called. He stood and approached the counter, where a Guild clerk greeted him with a wide smile.


    "Congratulations, sir," the clerk announced.


    "You are now a C-rank adventurer! This means you can accept both C and D-ranked jobs. Additionally, you¡¯re eligible to explore the first two floors of the Dungeon. For your next promotion, you¡¯ll need to complete five C-ranked jobs. Good luck, and safe adventuring!"


    The clerk handed him a shiny new card with "C-Rank" embossed in silver lettering. Travis took it with a nod of thanks, tucking it into his pouch before turning to the mission board.


    The C-rank board was noticeably different from the D-rank one¡ªmore tasks, each one seemed more challenging. The rewards were also significantly better. Travis scanned the available jobs, his eyes landing on a straightforward mission: kill five goblins and bring back their ears as proof.


    He grabbed the request slip, letting out a quiet chuckle. ''Goblins, huh? Well, it¡¯s a step up from delivering packages.''


    Without wasting any more time, he exited the Guild and headed out toward the outskirts of town. The forest loomed ahead, its dense trees shrouded in an eerie calm. Travis adjusted the strap of his bag, his focus sharpening as he prepared for his first C-rank mission.


    '' Time to get to work,'' he thought, his steps quickening as the excitement of the hunt began to stir within him.


    .....


    Travis returned an hour later, his hands heavy with a bloodied sack filled with goblin ears. He had gone out intending to hunt only what was needed, but his thoughts had wandered as he moved through the dense forest. Each kill seemed to silence the restless chatter in his mind, and before he realized it, he had amassed more trophies than intended. No matter¡ªit meant more coin in his pocket.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.


    As he approached the town gates, he raised a hand in greeting to the guards stationed there. They responded with familiar nods and smiles, a mark of the camaraderie that had grown between them during his stay.


    ¡°This town really is something else,¡± Travis mused silently, his eyes scanning the bustling streets beyond the gate. If I didn¡¯t have bigger plans, I could see myself settling here.


    At the Adventurer¡¯s Guild, the clerk behind the counter barely flinched at the impressive haul he dumped on the table. After a quick count and some scribbling on her ledger, she slid a pouch of coins across the counter.


    "Good haul today," she remarked casually, eyeing him with mild curiosity.


    Travis pocketed the reward with a nod and stepped back out into the sunlit street. The pouch jingled faintly with each step, a reminder of his small but steady progress.


    '' What now?'' he thought, pausing on the cobblestone street. His gaze drifted toward the distant hills where the Dungeon entrance was rumored to lie.


    '' You know, I¡¯ve been hearing all kinds of stories about that place. Maybe I should take a look. Just for peace of mind.''


    The idea gnawed at him as he made his way toward the Dungeon. His curiosity burned hotter with every step. People in town spoke of it with a mix of awe and dread¡ªmonsters that could kill you in the blink of an eye, traps designed to crush the unwary, and treasures that lured adventurers to their doom. Travis wasn¡¯t foolish enough to think he could face such dangers yet, but he couldn¡¯t shake the urge to see it for himself.


    The guards stationed at the gate leading to the Dungeon¡¯s perimeter gave him a cursory glance before requesting his Adventurer Card. They inspected it briefly, then waved him through.


    The path to the Dungeon entrance felt eerily quiet, the air heavy with an unnatural stillness. As the cave¡¯s massive opening loomed ahead, a faint pulse ran through him. It wasn¡¯t fear¡ªat least, not entirely¡ªbut something deeper. His mana seemed to hum faintly, resonating with the ominous energy radiating from the Dungeon.


    A shiver coursed through his spine, leaving his skin prickling. '' That''s weird ''


    The descent was slow and deliberate. The stone stairs spiraled downward, the air growing cooler and thicker with each step. By the time he reached the first level floor, his breaths felt heavier, his senses sharper.


    '' Is there nobody here? '' he thought, scanning the dimly lit expanse. Shadows flickered across jagged walls, and faint, distant echoes hinted at movement deeper within.


    He moved cautiously, every step calculated. The oppressive silence felt as though it were watching him, waiting for him to falter.


    Suddenly, the faint stillness shattered. An arrow, swift and precise, sliced through the air toward Travis. It moved with blinding speed, almost too fast to see. Instinct surged through him¡ªhe twisted his body at the last possible moment, narrowly avoiding the projectile.


    CRACK!


    The arrow buried itself deep into the stone wall behind him, leaving a jagged dent that radiated tiny fractures. Dust and debris spilled onto the floor, the sharp sound reverberating through the cavern.


    Travis spun on his heel, his heart pounding as his eyes scanned for the source. In the dim light, he caught sight of a dark, yawning cave in the distance. Its jagged entrance seemed to breathe shadows, the void within practically daring him to approach.


    "That¡¯s inviting," he muttered under his breath, sarcasm barely masking his unease. His hand drifted to the hilt of his weapon, fingers tightening around it as his mind raced.


    '' I guess that¡¯s where I¡¯m supposed to go, right? '' he thought, his curiosity battling with caution.


    Step by step, Travis moved closer, the air around him thickening with an almost palpable tension. The closer he got, the stronger he felt it¡ªa strange, invisible pull deep within him. It wasn¡¯t physical, but a gnawing force that seemed to bypass his body and tug directly at his very essence.


    He stopped just short of the entrance, his breath hitching as the sensation intensified. It was as though the cavern itself were alive, its silent whispers calling to him, demanding his presence.


    "What the hell is this?" he whispered, his voice swallowed instantly by the oppressive void ahead.


    And then, without warning, the force overwhelmed him. His surroundings blurred and twisted, the dim light of the cave collapsing into an inky darkness.


    In the blink of an eye, he was gone¡ªpulled violently into the shadows as if the cave had swallowed him whole. The last thing he felt was the sensation of falling, weightless and unmoored, into the unknown.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Fight

    Travis appeared in a dimly lit room, the flickering torches casting long, wavering shadows on the cold stone walls. He turned in a slow circle, scanning for any sign of an exit, but the room seemed sealed on all sides. His chest rose and fell rapidly, his breath coming in shallow gasps as he tried to process what had just happened. But no matter how hard he searched his memory, no answers surfaced.


    Realizing his panic would do him no good, he paused, closed his eyes, and inhaled deeply. The scent of burning wood and damp stone filled his nostrils. Exhaling steadily, he repeated the process until his heartbeat slowed to a steady rhythm. With renewed focus, he unsheathed his sword, the faint metallic scrape echoing in the stillness. The weapon felt reassuringly solid in his hand as he forced his thoughts to order.


    '' Okay, so how do dungeons work again?'' he mused. ''From the games I''ve played, I need to kill a boss or hit a certain number of kills to escape. At least, that¡¯s how it usually goes. I hope that¡¯s what¡¯s happening here. But... that arrow¡ªhow was it fired? That¡¯s the real mystery. Well, answers can wait. Right now, survival comes first. ''


    Steeling himself, Travis stepped forward into a narrow, stone-walled corridor that stretched out into the unknown. The oppressive silence weighed heavily on him, broken only by the soft tap of his boots against the uneven floor. He didn''t allow his gaze to linger too long on the cracked walls or the faint streaks of red smeared across some of the stones¡ªhe knew better than to let his imagination get the better of him.


    The hallway opened into a wide chamber, its walls lined with more torches. The flickering light created a disorienting dance of shadows, and Travis instinctively scanned the area, sword at the ready. Something felt... off. He couldn''t sense anything¡ªnot movement, not a presence, not even the faint hum of ambient energy he usually picked up in places like this.


    His grip on the sword tightened as unease crept in.'' Alright, so far, so good. But there¡¯s no way I¡¯m letting my guard down in a place like this. ''


    As if to confirm his suspicions, a low, sinister cackle echoed through the chamber. Travis froze, his eyes darting around to locate the source of the sound. The laughter grew louder, more distinct, ricocheting off the walls until it seemed to come from every direction at once. He turned sharply, sword raised, when suddenly, three figures materialized in front of him.


    They were tall goblins, each one a grotesque blend of wiry muscle and cruel cunning. Their greenish skin gleamed in the torchlight, and wide, toothy grins split their faces as they brandished wickedly curved swords.


    Travis took a step back, his jaw tightening as he adjusted his grip on the hilt of his blade. His eyes flicked between them, assessing their stance and demeanor. '' These must be High Goblins, '' he realized, a chill running down his spine. '' I have no idea what they''re capable of. I need to be careful ''


    The goblins began to fan out, their predatory grins never wavering. Travis held his ground, his mind racing. Whatever came next, he would need every ounce of focus and skill to get out alive.


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    Travis barely had time to think as the three goblins lunged at him all at once, their movements fast and coordinated. The sound of their swords cutting through the air was sharp and threatening. He raised his own blade just in time to deflect the first strike aimed at his head, the clash of steel ringing through the chamber.


    The second goblin attacked from his left, its sword slicing horizontally toward his side. Travis twisted his body, narrowly avoiding the blade, but the third goblin was already moving, stabbing forward from the right. He brought his sword down in a quick arc, knocking the goblin¡¯s weapon aside with a loud clang.


    ¡°Damn it,¡± Travis muttered, stepping back to put some distance between himself and the trio. The goblins didn¡¯t give him a moment to rest. They pressed forward, their grins wide and cruel, their swords flashing in the torchlight.


    The first goblin charged again, aiming a powerful overhead strike at Travis. He raised his sword to block it, the force of the impact reverberating up his arms. Sparks flew as their blades locked for a brief moment. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the second goblin circling behind him.


    With a grunt, Travis shoved the first goblin back and spun, bringing his sword around in a sweeping arc. The second goblin jumped back just in time, but the tip of Travis¡¯s blade grazed its chest, drawing a thin line of blood. The goblin snarled in pain but didn¡¯t back down.


    The third goblin used the opening to rush him, its sword stabbing toward his midsection. Travis sidestepped, letting the blade pass harmlessly by, then lashed out with a kick to the goblin¡¯s knee. The creature stumbled with a growl, but before Travis could capitalize, the first two were already back on him.


    The room echoed with the constant clash of metal as Travis parried and dodged, his sword moving in tight, efficient motions. He ducked under a wild swing from the first goblin, countering with a quick slash that caught its arm. The goblin shrieked, its grin replaced with a snarl, but the others didn¡¯t falter.


    The second goblin came at him low, its blade aimed for his legs. Travis jumped back, the tip of the weapon missing him by inches. The third goblin lunged at the same moment, swinging for his head. Travis ducked, feeling the rush of air as the sword passed just above him, then thrust his blade forward, driving it into the third goblin¡¯s stomach.


    The creature let out a guttural cry, its weapon clattering to the floor as it fell back, clutching at the wound.


    Travis didn¡¯t have time to celebrate. The remaining two goblins attacked together, their movements more desperate but just as deadly. He sidestepped a wide slash from the first goblin, countering with a quick strike that cut across its thigh. The second goblin tried to flank him again, but this time he was ready.


    He pivoted on his heel, bringing his sword around in a tight arc. The blade connected with the goblin¡¯s neck in a clean strike, and its headless body collapsed to the ground with a sickening thud.


    The final goblin hesitated, its confidence shaken. Travis didn¡¯t wait for it to recover. He surged forward, feinting high before dropping low and driving his sword into the creature¡¯s chest.


    It let out a final, wheezing gasp before slumping to the floor.


    Breathing heavily, Travis straightened, his eyes scanning the chamber for any more threats. The only sound now was the crackle of the torches and his own ragged breathing. He wiped the blood from his blade on one of the goblin¡¯s tattered cloaks before sheathing it.


    ¡°That was too close,¡± Travis muttered, his chest still rising and falling with each breath as he glanced at the three lifeless bodies sprawled on the cold stone floor. ¡°Pretty good warm-up, though. I didn¡¯t even need to use my mana. And this sword¡­¡± He looked down at the weapon in his hand, its black blade faintly gleaming in the flickering torchlight. ¡°It¡¯s damn good. It moves exactly how I want it to, almost like it knows what I¡¯m thinking.¡±


    He unsheathed the sword again and held it up, inspecting the dark surface. The blade seemed almost alive, its edges rippling faintly, as though responding to his gaze. He realized he¡¯d gotten so used to it drawing on his mana that he barely noticed anymore. It felt natural¡ªtoo natural, as if the sword had become an extension of his own body.


    ¡°Guess it¡¯s just you and me, huh?¡± he murmured to the weapon before shrugging off the thought. Whatever it was, it worked, and that was all that mattered for now.


    Sliding the sword back into its scabbard with a soft click, Travis stepped over the goblins¡¯ bodies, their blood pooling beneath them and soaking into the cracks of the stone floor. He didn¡¯t bother looking back; they were just obstacles, nothing more.


    The hallway ahead stretched into darkness, but he didn¡¯t slow down. The faint echoes of his footsteps filled the air as he pressed on, gripping the hilt of his sword lightly. This dungeon had more to throw at him¡ªhe could feel it¡ªand he wasn¡¯t about to let his guard down again.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Burn

    As Travis walked deeper, the oppressive atmosphere grew heavier with every step. The mana in the air was so thick it seemed to coat his skin, each breath filled with its dense, electric tang. His senses struggled under the overwhelming flood, muffling even the faintest echoes of his footsteps. It was as if the Dungeon itself wanted him blind to its layout, its traps, and its lurking dangers. A chill ran down his spine at the thought of navigating this place without his sight¡ªhe wouldn¡¯t have lasted a second.


    The faint hum of mana vibrated through the air, almost like a heartbeat, and as he pressed forward, his mind wandered.


    '' How did this place come to exist? ''


    From what little he understood, Dungeons were supposed to be man-made constructs, but this one felt alive¡ªancient and predatory. The thought ignited his curiosity, despite the danger. How did people create something like this? He resolved to find the answers later. If he survived, the first thing he¡¯d do was find a book detailing their creation. The mysteries gnawed at him, and now they felt personal.


    After what felt like an eternity of trudging through the oppressive haze, Travis entered another chamber. The air here was colder, the mana sharper, prickling at his skin like a warning. The room stretched far and wide, the vaulted ceiling disappearing into shadow. The oppressive silence seemed to thrum with anticipation, each beat of his heart sounding like thunder in his ears.


    He unsheathed his sword in one smooth motion, its blade catching the faint, eerie glow of ambient mana. His fingers tightened around the hilt, his muscles tensing as he surveyed the space.


    ¡°Hmm,¡± he mused, a small, wry smile tugging at his lips. ¡°Must be a larger threat this time. Wonder what it¡¯ll be.¡±


    His voice was a whisper lost in the vastness of the room. A low rumble echoed in response, faint at first but growing louder, and his grip on the sword shifted, readying himself for whatever emerged from the shadows.


    At that very moment, a loud, grating cackle reverberated through the chamber, filling the vast space with a sinister resonance. The sound seemed to come from everywhere at once, bouncing off the walls and amplifying its eerie effect. Travis''s grip on his sword tightened instinctively, his heartbeat quickening as his eyes darted around, searching for the source.


    Then, slowly, smoke began to swirl in the center of the room, curling and coiling like living tendrils. It gathered with an unnatural speed, thick and dark, obscuring the ground beneath it. Within the churning cloud, a shadow began to take form, vague at first but growing sharper with every second. Travis narrowed his eyes, his breath hitching as the figure solidified¡ªa hulking silhouette that exuded malice.


    The figure towered above him, its sheer size and presence daunting. A sharp chill crept up his spine as he tried to steady himself.


    ¡°So, I¡¯m fighting one of them, huh?¡± he thought, a faint smirk forming despite the tension. ¡°Well, one¡¯s better than twenty, that¡¯s for sure.¡±You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    He shifted his stance, clenching his sword tighter, the leather of the hilt digging into his palm.


    As the smoke dissipated, the creature came into full view. It was tall, its lean, sinewy frame covered in a sickly green hue that seemed to shimmer faintly under the ambient glow of the mana. Its eyes burned like embers, two pinpricks of fiery malice fixed squarely on him. In its clawed hands, it carried a massive blade, jagged and cruel, easily as tall as Travis himself. The weapon radiated menace, its edge gleaming dangerously. One swing from that thing could slice him in half long before he even got close.


    ¡°I guess that explains why the room¡¯s so damn big,¡± he mused grimly, his lips pressing into a thin line.


    The creature shifted, its movements eerily fluid, as if it had no weight despite its size. It raised its blade slightly, the sharp hum of metal slicing through the air sending a shiver down Travis''s spine.


    He took a deep breath, forcing his nerves to steady. He wasn¡¯t going to let it rattle him.


    Travis analyzed the situation quickly. The creature had the obvious advantage in reach, and with a weapon like that, it would aim to keep him at a distance. Getting too close would be suicidal unless he moved fast.


    ¡°This has to end quickly,¡± he thought, shifting his stance. The mana-drenched air seemed to crackle with tension as he locked eyes with the towering opponent.


    The creature wasted no time, lunging forward with surprising speed for something its size. The blade came down in a deadly arc, slicing through the air with a high-pitched whistle. Travis barely sidestepped in time, the impact of the blade against the ground sending tremors through the chamber and kicking up shards of stone.


    Travis darted to the side, closing the gap slightly, his sword flashing as he aimed a quick strike at the creature''s side. It twisted with uncanny agility, its massive blade sweeping horizontally to force him back. The gust of wind from the swing nearly knocked him off balance, but he pivoted on his heel, avoiding the lethal edge by mere inches.


    The monster pressed its advantage, slashing in rapid succession, each strike a blur of green and steel. Sparks flew as Travis deflected one blow with his sword, the impact jarring his arm and forcing him to retreat a step. His eyes darted around the room, looking for openings, for anything he could exploit.


    He feinted to the left, drawing the creature¡¯s blade in that direction, and then dashed to the right, closing the distance faster than it could adjust. His sword lashed out, slicing across its thigh. A spray of dark green ichor hissed as it hit the ground, sizzling against the mana-saturated air.


    The beast roared, the sound shaking the very walls of the chamber. Its retaliation was immediate¡ªa wide, sweeping slash that forced Travis to dive into a roll to avoid being cleaved in two. He came up on one knee, breathing hard but grinning.


    ¡°Not so tough up close, are you?¡± he muttered under his breath.


    The creature didn¡¯t give him a chance to recover. It surged forward, its massive blade carving through the space where he had been a heartbeat before. Travis ducked low, his sword flashing as he slashed at its abdomen. The blow connected, cutting deep, but the monster barely flinched.


    Its blade came down again, and this time, Travis was a second too slow. The edge grazed his shoulder, tearing through fabric and flesh. He bit back a cry of pain, rolling away as the beast pressed its attack.


    Blood dripped down his arm, but he ignored it, his mind racing. He couldn¡¯t keep this up. The creature¡¯s reach and strength were too much.


    He leaped back, putting some distance between them, and gripped his sword tightly. The air around him shimmered as he began channeling his mana. Heat surged through his body, radiating outward as flames licked the edges of his blade. The fire roared to life, casting flickering shadows across the chamber.


    The creature hesitated, its ember-like eyes narrowing as it sensed the shift in energy. Travis didn¡¯t give it time to react.


    With a burst of speed, he dashed forward, flames trailing behind him like a comet. The creature swung its blade in a desperate arc, but Travis ducked under it, his fiery sword slicing upward in a devastating arc.


    ¡°Burn!¡± he shouted, pouring every ounce of his mana into the strike.


    The blade connected with the creature¡¯s torso, the fire exploding outward in a brilliant wave. The monster roared in agony as the flames consumed it, the intense heat turning its green flesh to ash in seconds. It staggered back, its massive blade clattering to the ground as its body crumbled, the fire reducing it to little more than smoldering embers.


    Travis stood there, his sword still glowing faintly with residual heat, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. The room was silent now, save for the crackling of dying flames.


    ¡°Fuck that was close¡± he muttered to no one in particular, a small, satisfied smirk tugging at his lips.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 New Goal

    While Travis leaned against the cold, stone wall to catch his breath, the ground beneath him began to shudder, sending small bits of debris tumbling from the ceiling. His eyes widened as the walls around him trembled violently, the echoing groans of the structure making his heart race.


    "Is this place caving in?" he muttered, his pulse quickening.


    Just as panic threatened to set in, a blinding light pierced through the dim dungeon. A door materialized directly in front of him, glowing so brightly that he instinctively raised an arm to shield his eyes.


    The door was unlike anything he''d seen before¡ªornate yet otherworldly, its surface radiating a soft hum of power. Squinting against the glare, Travis hesitated, curiosity and caution warring within him.


    "What¡¯s behind there?" he murmured, his voice barely audible over the low rumble still reverberating through the dungeon.


    There was only one way to find out. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward, his boots echoing against the stone floor, and pushed the door open.


    The brightness engulfed him instantly, searing through his closed eyelids and forcing him to flinch. Pain flared as the intense light overwhelmed his senses, and he staggered forward, disoriented.


    When the light finally began to fade, he slowly blinked his eyes open, squinting to adjust to his surroundings. His jaw dropped as he realized he was... back where he started. The familiar walls of the dungeon loomed around him, eerily silent.


    He scanned the area in disbelief, running a hand through his damp hair.


    "That was it? The boss fight¡¯s over, and this is all I get?" he grumbled, his voice echoing faintly. He had expected treasure, maybe a new skill, or at least some kind of clue. Instead, the dungeon had unceremoniously dumped him right back at the beginning.


    "Guess I should¡¯ve seen that coming," he muttered with a resigned shrug. "No use sticking around."


    He trudged up the crumbling staircase, the weight of disappointment pressing on him, until he emerged into the evening air. The cool breeze against his face brought a sliver of relief, but his mind was still preoccupied with the experience.


    Back home, Travis collapsed onto his bed, staring at the cracked ceiling above him. He replayed the fight in his head, searching for answers. What was the purpose of that door? Why was there no reward? The thought gnawed at him.


    Sitting up abruptly, he muttered, "I need answers. Maybe the library has something on dungeons."


    He changed out of his battle-worn gear and into a plain shirt and trousers before heading out into town. The streets bustled with life, the scent of freshly baked bread and sizzling meat wafting through the air. He ignored his growling stomach and focused on his goal, weaving through the crowd until he spotted the tall, arched entrance of the town library.You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    Pushing the heavy wooden door open, Travis stepped inside, greeted by the comforting scent of aged parchment and polished wood. Rows upon rows of books stretched before him, illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns.


    "Alright," he whispered to himself, determination hardening his features. "Time to figure this out."


    As he began browsing the shelves, a plan formed in his mind. After his research, he¡¯d reward himself with a good meal¡ªhe¡¯d earned at least that much.


    [Dungeons]


    Dungeons are a natural phenomenon that arise in areas with highly concentrated mana, and they have existed since the earliest recorded times. These enigmatic structures appear to defy the natural laws of the world, forming labyrinthine trials designed to test the mettle of those who dare enter. Typically composed of 10 to 20 floors, each level grows progressively more challenging, forcing adventurers to adapt and push their limits to survive.


    What makes dungeons even more intriguing is their almost sentient nature¡ªthey are known to lure people inside. Some use brute force, releasing monsters into nearby areas to draw in would-be heroes, while others entice through treasures: glittering gold, rare artifacts, or even whispers of forgotten knowledge.


    No two dungeons are alike. Their architecture, traps, and challenges vary wildly. Some take the form of ancient ruins with crumbling stone walls, while others resemble dense forests or frozen caverns. The monsters that inhabit them are just as diverse, often including creatures never seen elsewhere in the world. For instance, golems¡ªmagical constructs of stone or metal¡ªare said to have originated from dungeons, sparking the widespread popularity of enchanting magic as adventurers sought to replicate their power.


    Despite centuries of exploration and study, the origin of dungeons remains a mystery. Are they a creation of nature, a side effect of mana, or perhaps remnants of an ancient civilization? No one truly knows. Yet, their allure is undeniable. For many, dungeons represent the ultimate trial, a chance to prove their strength, gain wealth, or uncover secrets lost to time.


    To this day, they stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure, a challenge that continues to captivate humanity''s imagination.


    Travis closed the heavy book with a sigh, the thud of its cover echoing faintly in the quiet library. While he had learned a lot, there were still so many questions swirling in his mind¡ªquestions a book simply couldn¡¯t answer. He stretched his arms above his head, feeling the stiffness in his back from sitting too long, then pushed back his chair and made his way to the exit.


    The cool evening air greeted him as he stepped outside, his stomach growling in protest. Spotting a cozy little tavern nearby, he decided to treat himself to a hearty meal.


    Once inside, the warm atmosphere enveloped him. The scent of roasted meats and freshly baked bread made his mouth water as he found a corner table and placed an order for a filling stew and some ale. Leaning back in his chair, he let his thoughts wander to the day ahead.


    Tomorrow¡¯s tasks loomed over him like a shadow. He needed to complete them efficiently if he wanted to secure another promotion. That promotion would be his ticket to better resources and permission to delve deeper into the dungeon¡ªsomething he craved more than anything.


    "But honestly," he thought, resting his chin on his hand, "I want a real challenge. That¡¯s the only way to grow stronger in this world. Sitting around playing it safe won¡¯t get me anywhere."


    His mind flickered with doubt. Could he take on the deeper levels of the dungeon with his current strength? The memories of his last encounter were still vivid¡ªthe suffocating tension, the relentless enemies, the glowing door that led nowhere.


    "Maybe I should prepare better this time," he mused. "Stock up on supplies, find a stronger weapon, or maybe even learn a new spell. Just in case things get rough."


    His musings were interrupted as his food arrived. The aroma was heavenly, and he wasted no time digging into the steaming stew, savoring the rich flavors.


    As he ate, snippets of conversation from the nearby table drifted over.


    ¡°We should go buy some potions before hitting the dungeon tomorrow. I¡¯m not ready to die just yet,¡± one voice said, tinged with nervous laughter.


    ¡°Good call,¡± another replied. ¡°We¡¯ll grab some after this, just to be safe.¡±


    Travis smirked into his bowl, their words only reinforcing his earlier thoughts.


    "Well, that¡¯s a great sign," he thought sarcastically, taking another bite. He didn¡¯t need a reminder of how dangerous the dungeons were¡ªhe already knew. Still, the idea of being better prepared didn¡¯t seem so bad.


    As he finished his meal, a new resolve began to settle in his mind. If he wanted a challenge, he¡¯d take one¡ªbut not without ensuring he was ready for whatever the dungeon might throw his way.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Buying Potions

    The next day, Travis woke up before sunrise, the sky outside his window still painted in hues of deep blue. After a quick breakfast of bread and cheese washed down with warm tea, he approached the innkeeper, who was busy polishing the counter.


    ¡°Excuse me, where can I buy potions around here?¡± he asked.


    The woman looked up, smiling warmly. ¡°Two blocks down, on the left. You¡¯ll see a small shop with a green sign.¡±


    Travis thanked her and set off. The morning air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of dew and wood smoke. The streets were quiet, save for the occasional vendor setting up stalls. It didn¡¯t take long to reach the shop, arriving just minutes after the proprietor unlocked the door.


    The bell above the door chimed softly as he stepped inside, and a rich, herbal aroma immediately enveloped him. It wasn¡¯t overpowering¡ªjust enough to clear his head and sharpen his senses. He inhaled deeply, the refreshing scent soothing in a way he hadn¡¯t expected.


    Now that¡¯s how you welcome a customer, he thought with a smirk.


    Behind the counter stood a middle-aged man with kind eyes and a neatly trimmed beard. He greeted Travis with a polite smile. ¡°Good morning. How can I help you?¡±


    Travis returned the smile, his tone courteous. ¡°I heard you sell potions here, but I¡¯m not sure what kinds you have. Could you give me a rundown?¡±


    The shopkeeper¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Ah, you¡¯ve come to the right place¡ªand at the perfect time, too. It¡¯s quiet right now. Here¡¯s a list, but I¡¯d be happy to explain everything in detail.¡±


    He handed Travis a parchment with neatly written categories of potions: healing, stamina, mana, antidotes, enhancers, and a few marked as ¡°specialty.¡± The shopkeeper began his explanations, walking Travis through the effects of each type, their duration, and any side effects. His voice was calm and measured, making it easy for Travis to absorb the information.


    Travis listened intently, nodding occasionally. After a thorough explanation, he thanked the man and handed over a handful of coins for a selection of hunger-filling potions. They were neatly packed into a small cloth bag, tied with a sturdy string.


    Outside, Travis held the bag in his hand, a satisfied smile tugging at his lips.


    '' These will do just fine, '' he thought. '' A single gulp, and I won¡¯t have to worry about food for hours. Perfect for my plan. I¡¯ll be in that dungeon until I hit at least level 80 or higher. No stopping now.''


    The hunger-filling potions were an ideal solution for his peculiar drawback. While his seemingly endless mana gave him an edge, the hunger that accompanied heavy usage was a nuisance. These potions would eliminate that problem entirely.


    Returning to the inn, he placed the bag carefully in a corner of his room before heading out again. His next stop was the guild, where he scanned the job board with sharp eyes. After a moment, he pulled down a contract that promised decent rewards and the potential for a promotion.


    '' Time to work and move up the ranks,'' he thought, tucking the job paper into his pocket before heading out.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ---


    Job One: Clearing the Forest Cave


    The forest was unnervingly quiet as Travis approached the cave. The air smelled damp, and the faint rustling of leaves kept him on edge. Inside, the cave was dimly lit by bioluminescent fungi clinging to the walls.


    His target was a swarm of venomous cave spiders that had made the area unsafe for travelers. The first spider lunged at him as soon as he entered, its fangs gleaming.


    With a sharp swing of his sword, Travis unleashed a crescent-shaped wave of mana energy that tore through the air, slicing cleanly through the advancing spiders. The force sent their twitching bodies sprawling against the damp walls.


    As more emerged from the shadows, their legs clicking menacingly, Travis shifted his stance, gripping his sword tightly. He moved with precision, his blade flashing in arcs of light as he severed limbs and skewered the creatures. When they began to overwhelm him, he slammed the sword into the ground, channeling a burst of mana through the blade. The resulting shockwave rippled outward, sending the spiders flying and crushing the remaining stragglers.


    By the time the cave was silent, his boots were coated in sticky webs, and his breathing came in steady but heavy bursts.


    He sheathed his sword with a practiced motion, then crouched to collect the venom sacs as proof of his success before making his way back into the open air.


    ---


    Job Two: Escorting the Merchant Caravan


    The second job seemed easy enough on paper: escort a merchant caravan to a neighboring town. But halfway through the journey, the peaceful trek turned into chaos.


    Bandits ambushed them on a narrow, rocky path. The first arrow whizzed past Travis¡¯s head, embedding itself in a barrel. The merchants screamed, scrambling for cover. Travis leaped into action.


    ¡°Stay down!¡± he barked at the merchants.


    The bandits charged, swords gleaming in the sunlight. Travis met them head-on, his sword a blur of steel as he parried and countered with fluid precision. Each strike was deliberate, disarming one attacker with a sharp twist of his blade before sidestepping another¡¯s wild swing and driving his sword into the ground to trip him.


    The leader, a burly man with a scar across his face, rushed forward with a heavy axe. Travis ducked under the massive swing, using the momentum to pivot. In one smooth motion, he slashed across the leader¡¯s arm, forcing him to drop the axe with a cry of pain.


    The remaining bandits hesitated, their resolve faltering as Travis turned his focused gaze on them. With a single flourish of his blade, he stepped forward, his movements sharp and commanding. It was enough to send the rest scattering into the forest.


    The merchants cheered, their relief palpable as they emerged from cover. They offered him a bonus in gratitude when they arrived safely at their destination.


    ---


    Job Three: Capturing the Fire-Infused Salamander


    The final job of the day brought him to a rocky canyon, where a fire-infused salamander had been wreaking havoc on nearby farms.


    The creature was a blur of red and gold, its body glowing with an intense heat that scorched the earth wherever it stepped. Travis crouched behind a boulder, planning his approach.


    When the salamander spotted him, it roared, spewing a stream of fire. Travis rolled to the side, the flames licking the edge of his cloak. The salamander roared, spewing a torrent of flames in Travis''s direction. He rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding the scorching heat as the fire seared the ground where he¡¯d stood moments before. Its glowing, molten body darted toward him, but Travis sidestepped again, his movements swift and precise.


    The creature lunged, snapping its jaws, but Travis twisted away, the swipe missing him by inches. It attacked relentlessly, its speed unnerving, but he stayed one step ahead, his eyes focused and body in constant motion.


    With each dodge, he analyzed its patterns, waiting for an opening. When it reared back to release another fiery blast, Travis dashed forward, ducking under its attack and driving his blade deep into the vulnerable scales near its neck. The salamander let out a final, ear-splitting roar before collapsing, its flames dimming as its body went limp.


    Travis stepped back, , sweat dripping down his brow. The adrenaline coursing through him subsided as he cleaned his blade, taking a moment to catch his breath.


    By the time he returned to the guild, the sun hung low in the sky, casting warm orange hues across the town. His muscles ached from the day¡¯s trials, but the weight of the pouch in his hand and the guildmaster¡¯s approving nod made it all worthwhile.


    '' One step closer to promotion,'' he thought, allowing himself a small, satisfied smile.


    Travis strolled over to the mission board, his boots scuffing against the wooden floor as he scanned the postings. His gaze landed on a solitary sheet tacked near the edge, its corners slightly curled. The bold lettering caught his attention immediately, but it was the details that made him raise a brow.


    The job description read: ¡°Level 47 Monster Subjugation ¨C Night Contract. Extreme caution advised.¡±


    He leaned in slightly, rereading the specifics. A monster lurking in the outskirts of town, its description vague but the danger clear. The timing was unusual, but so was the payout¡ªit promised a hefty reward for a successful hunt.


    ¡°Level 47, huh?¡± he muttered under his breath, smirking as he reached for the paper. "Sounds like a challenge."


    Tucking the contract into his pocket, he turned toward the exit, the weight of anticipation settling on his shoulders.


    "Why not? "


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Killing The Water Monster

    Travis took the job, it was going to be his last job of the day officially. After taking it he went ahead and left the town, the gaurds warned him that they''ll be closing soon so he needed to hurry.


    He nodded and continued down the path. From what the guild worker told him, the monster was last spotted by the river that trailed right by the town on the right. He went there.


    As he got there he was met with a beautiful Moonlit river that looked breathtaking. He smiled, appreciating the nice view.


    Travis walked around the , wondering where the monster was.


    ''Is this a prank? Well whatever let me go for a nice swim '' he thought. Travis got naked and jumped inside the water. He began swimming all around, enjoying himself.


    While he did this, something underneath the water opened its eyes. The monster saw Travis floating there without a care in the world. The monster began swimming up towards him in quick speeds.


    Travis who was lazily floating, felt something approaching him suddenly, making him jump up.


    The monster rose out the water with a a giant leaped, water splashed everywhere as it floated staring at Travis. It was big as an elephant , green in color. Travis landed on the water staring at it in surprise.


    '' This must be the so cold monster ''he thought.


    He looked at his stuff back on the ground and sighed '' I mean who swims with a sword?'' He thought.


    Suddenly he felt his blade in his hand, which shocked him. But he didn¡¯t have anytime to think about that as he the monsters approached him in quick speeds.


    The river rippled violently as the monster lunged at Travis, its massive body surging out of the water with incredible speed. Its glowing, feral eyes locked on him, jaws gaping wide, ready to tear him apart. Travis¡¯s heart pounded in his chest as he pushed off the water, moving with explosive speed across the surface. He barely avoided the snapping jaws as they crashed into the water just behind him, sending a splash that momentarily made the water unstable beneath his feet.


    ¡°This thing¡¯s fast,¡± Travis thought, barely managing to keep his footing as another wave rocked him.


    The monster¡¯s tail struck the water with a deafening crack, cutting through the surface like a whip. Travis dove to the side, feeling the rush of displaced water as it lashed past him. He was still in the air when the tail smashed against the water in front of him, sending a wall of water cascading over him. His feet slipped, but he quickly regained balance, the wet surface making each movement a struggle.


    The beast moved again, its body shifting through the water with unsettling grace. It was fast, too fast for him to react with any real precision, and the waves it created only made the fight more difficult. Travis barely managed to leap sideways as the monster surged at him once more, its tail crashing into the water with a violent whoosh. The shockwave sent him stumbling backward, his feet losing traction on the surface as he fought to stay afloat.


    ¡°Come on,¡± Travis muttered under his breath, frustration creeping in. The waves made it harder to track the beast¡¯s movements, and it was relentless. Each strike seemed to push him further away from his footing. The monster was using the water against him¡ªdistracting him with waves, forcing him into the chaos of its attacks.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    With a roar, the creature lunged once more, but this time, Travis was ready. His feet dug into the water, and with a surge of his own speed, he shot forward, ducking under the monster¡¯s snapping jaws and darting to its side. As the creature twisted in mid-air to face him, Travis swung his sword in a swift arc, the blade cutting through the water with a sharp swoosh, just grazing the creature¡¯s thick hide.


    It roared in pain, thrashing violently in the water, sending a blast of waves that nearly knocked Travis off balance. The water splashed around him, drowning out his thoughts. He could feel the pressure building, the beast moving faster, stronger with every attack. The waves were a blur of sound, the air thick with the sound of splashing and the creature¡¯s angry growls.


    ¡°Gotta end this now,¡± Travis thought. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna last much longer in this mess.¡±


    He focused, gathering his mana, letting it fill him, and centered it in his blade. The sword began to hum, the air around it vibrating as it absorbed the energy. The creature charged at him again, mouth open, ready to bite.


    ¡°Cut!¡± Travis shouted, his voice carrying over the chaos of the fight.


    He swung the blade in a smooth arc, and this time the water seemed to part before him. The screech of the sword cutting through the air was deafening, followed by a deep, resonant crack. The slash wasn¡¯t just through the creature¡ªit cut the very air itself, the blade severing everything in its path.


    The creature''s body was cleaved in half with no resistance, its form dissipating as the slash continued through the air, slicing into the river itself. The water seemed to freeze momentarily, the path of the cut leaving a jagged scar that wouldn¡¯t heal. The river itself parted, as though the very fabric of the water had been torn apart, leaving a wound that refused to close.


    The waves stilled. Silence fell over the scene as the once-mighty monster dissolved into nothingness. Only the faint, eerie sound of water trickling remained as the gash in the river slowly faded, its energy spent.


    Travis stood still on the water, his chest heaving as he tried to steady his breath. The blade hummed quietly in his hand, its glow fading as he lowered it, his body shaking from the strain of the fight.


    ¡°Cut,¡± he muttered, his voice weary. ¡° Pretty cool skill. Wish it didn''t suck so much of mana. Sure it doesn''t matter but I can literally feel it leaving "


    The river around him slowly returned to its quiet state, the stillness broken only by the faint ripples where the creature had once been.


    Travis leaped back onto the riverbank, his boots splashing against the rocks as he landed with a soft thud. He took a moment to steady himself, breathing heavily from the intensity of the fight. His clothes were soaked, water dripping from his hair as he quickly pulled his sword back into its sheath. The monster was gone¡ªnothing but a lingering silence and the stillness of the river remained.


    He glanced at the water one last time, his fingers twitching from the residual magic still humming in his veins. ¡°It¡¯s done,¡± he muttered, as if saying it aloud would make it feel more real.


    The cool night air felt different now, the weight of the fight lifting off his shoulders. He began to walk back to shore, his thoughts already shifting to what was next. As he reached the riverbank, he pulled off his drenched tunic, quickly changing back into dry clothes, his fingers moving with familiarity. His mind wandered to the upcoming promotion test, a challenge he knew would push him even harder than before. ¡°Time to rest up. Tomorrow¡¯s the real test,¡± he thought, as he adjusted the strap of his sword and tightened his boots.


    With one last glance at the river, Travis made his way back toward the town. The path felt quieter now, the shadows longer in the moonlight. As he approached the gates, the guards waved him through, their faces marked with a bit of awe as they remembered his earlier warnings about the creature. Travis gave a tired wave back, heading straight for the guild.


    Inside, the guild hall buzzed with its usual energy. People were finishing up their jobs, collecting bounties, and exchanging stories. When Travis walked in, however, the room quieted just slightly, and several members turned to look at him. The guildmaster appeared from behind the counter, a look of surprise on his face.


    ¡°You¡¯re back already?¡± the guildmaster asked, raising an eyebrow. ¡°I expected you to be gone longer, considering the threat.¡±


    Travis gave a tired but satisfied smile. ¡°I took care of it. The monster¡¯s gone. You can send people to check it out.¡±


    The guildmaster raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. ¡°I¡¯ll have some of our best head to the river to confirm. But, Travis... we didn¡¯t expect you to handle it so quickly.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t long before a few guild members were sent off, racing toward the river to see the aftermath. The guildmaster walked over to Travis, patting him on the back. ¡°Thank you for that. You¡¯ve done something most adventurers wouldn¡¯t even consider. That creature was a serious problem.¡±


    A few hours later, the guild members returned, their faces pale with shock. They spoke in hushed tones, recounting the scene at the river. ¡°It¡¯s gone... the creature¡¯s just gone. And the water... it¡¯s split open like a wound. The beast¡ªthere¡¯s nothing left of it.¡±


    A carriage was brought in, its wheels creaking as it made its way to the riverbank. The monster¡¯s remains¡ªwhatever was left of it¡ªwere carefully loaded onto the cart to be brought into town. People gathered to watch as the massive form was transported. Travis could hear the whispers and murmurs rising among the crowd.


    The guildmaster returned to Travis, handing him a small leather bag, its contents jingling with silver. He then slid a single gold coin into his hand, a weighty gesture. ¡°For your efforts. You went above and beyond. You¡¯re making us proud, Travis.¡±


    Travis gave a small but genuine smile as he pocketed the gold coin. ¡°Well, it¡¯s my job. ¡± He gave a respectful nod to the guildmaster and turned to leave, his stride steady despite the exhaustion that clung to his bones.


    As he stepped out of the guild and into the cool night, Travis couldn¡¯t help but think ahead. ¡°Tomorrow¡¯s the promotion test,¡± he reminded himself.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 1

    The very next morning, Travis woke early, the anticipation thrumming through him like a pulse. Today was the day of his promotion test, and he felt more than ready. After making his way to the Adventurer¡¯s Guild, he approached the counter confidently. The receptionist, a middle-aged man with sharp eyes and a welcoming smile, took his application and motioned for him to wait.


    ¡°We¡¯ll arrange an examiner for you,¡± the man said, his tone brisk but professional.


    Travis nodded, stepping to the side and leaning casually against a pillar. He observed the bustling guildhall, watching adventurers come and go with their weapons and gear. Some exchanged banter, while others seemed focused, reviewing maps or taking inventory of potions.


    '' It seems like the same type of test as before, '' Travis thought, his mind calm. Nothing to stress about.


    When his examiner arrived, a wiry older adventurer with scars on his arms and a sharp, assessing gaze, the test began. Hours passed as Travis completed the tasks set before him. Physical challenges, tactical evaluations, and even tests of mana control¡ªall were thrown his way. By the end, he stood victorious, not even winded.


    The examiner smiled, an approving glint in his eyes. ¡°You¡¯ve done well. Congratulations, B-Rank Adventurer.¡±


    When the announcement was made in the guildhall, heads turned. Whispers spread rapidly.


    ¡°A B-Rank? Already?¡±


    ¡°How is that possible?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a new record?¡±


    The guild congratulated him formally, the guildmaster himself coming forward to shake Travis¡¯s hand. ¡°You¡¯ve done something remarkable here. This is a world record for our guild. As recognition, we¡¯d like to offer you a prize.¡±


    Travis shook his head politely. ¡°I appreciate it, but I¡¯m not here for recognition. I have other priorities right now.¡±


    The guildmaster blinked, then nodded with a chuckle. ¡°Fair enough. Ambition drives greatness, after all.¡±


    Travis left the guild, a spring in his step. ''It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want the reward, though. Maybe I¡¯ll come back and get it after I¡¯m done,'' he thought as he walked down the busy street.


    He had been so confident in passing that he¡¯d packed everything he needed for the Dungeon in advance. His bag was snug against his back, filled with rations, potions, and the essentials for a long expedition. As he neared the Dungeon¡¯s gates, he noticed the steady stream of Adventurers entering.


    Some carried large weapons slung over their shoulders, others had sleek, intricate armor, and a few looked like magic users, their robes shimmering faintly with enchantments.


    '' What level are they? ''Travis wondered. He watched them for a moment before continuing toward the gates.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    The guards stationed there glanced up, their expressions lighting up with recognition. ¡°Go on through,¡± one said, waving him forward. They didn¡¯t even bother checking his Adventurer Card.


    As Travis stepped inside the Dungeon, the atmosphere changed immediately. The air felt heavier, damp and oppressive. Just like before, his senses seemed to dull, his mana sense especially muted as if a thick fog had settled over it.


    '' This again, '' he thought, but he dismissed the feeling. '' I¡¯m used to it now. ''


    He descended the wide stone staircase, his boots echoing against the steps. The first few floors were familiar territory, and he passed through them without hesitation. Eventually, the walls of raw stone began to shift, the jagged surfaces smoothing out into polished gray bricks. A dim, eerie green light bathed the passage, casting unsettling shadows that danced along the walls.


    Travis frowned, his fingers unconsciously brushing the hilt of his sword. ''What¡¯s with the sudden change? It¡¯s like stepping into a different Dungeon.''


    But he didn¡¯t linger on the thought. He knew better than to get distracted by the mysteries of a Dungeon. Instead, he pressed forward, his mind focused on what lay ahead.


    Eventually, he stepped onto a level floor, entering a large hall-like room with numbered doors on either side. The room buzzed with activity as Adventurers checked and adjusted their equipment. Travis glanced at one of the doors, noticing the number ¡°1,¡± which puzzled him.


    ''Huh? One? How? Wasn¡¯t the previous area the first floor?'' he thought.


    He had assumed that every floor in a Dungeon was an open level, but this Dungeon seemed to be structured differently. Each floor was confined to a single room. The layout confused him, but since he couldn¡¯t get answers, he decided not to worry about it.


    Determined to move forward, Travis approached the tall, intimidating door marked ¡°1.¡± As he neared it, an invisible force gripped him, pulling him forward. The doors creaked open, and a bright white light engulfed him.


    The next moment, he was standing inside the Dungeon¡¯s first official floor. It was similar to the previous area but far larger.


    ''I should move forward if I plan on finishing this place quickly,'' he thought, unsheathing his sword and resting it on his shoulder.


    The layout of this floor was different. It stayed wide and open, with only the growing darkness ahead marking any change. Travis continued walking for what felt like an hour, sighing in frustration as he leaned against the wall.


    ''How far does this place go? I must have been walking for an hour or more,'' he thought.


    The entire way had been eerily quiet, with no monsters in sight. It made him question what was wrong with this place. Just as he was about to give up and rest, he spotted fog creeping ahead of him.


    Travis stopped in his tracks, gripping his sword tightly as he heard faint, rhythmic thuds echoing from the fog.


    He narrowed his eyes and steadied his breathing. Two massive figures emerged, their glowing red eyes piercing through the mist. Each step they took caused the ground to tremble.


    As they stepped fully into view, Travis took in their hulking forms. The creatures were golems, their bodies made of solid stone, with small glowing gems embedded in their chests.


    ''Golems, if I¡¯m not mistaken. How do you beat these guys?'' He focused on the gems in their chests, smirking. ''Guess that¡¯s my answer.''


    Without activating any of his mana or abilities, Travis prepared himself. He wanted to win without relying on his powers unless absolutely necessary.


    He sprinted forward, moving so fast that the golems struggled to track him. In less than a second, he was upon them.


    Dodging a heavy, slow punch from one of the golems, he leapt onto its arm and stabbed his sword directly into the glowing gem on its chest. The gem cracked under the impact, releasing a burst of bright blue light.


    The golem froze, its entire body shuddering before it imploded, sending shards of stone scattering across the ground.


    The second golem roared and swung at him, but Travis ducked, the massive fist smashing into the ground beside him. Using the opening, he dashed forward and plunged his sword into its gem as well.


    The second gem shattered, causing the golem to collapse and implode just like the first. Travis stepped back, dusting off bits of rubble from his clothes.


    ''I wonder if there are golems out there that can give me a decent fight,'' he thought as he continued deeper into the Dungeon.


    He started wondering whether this place had a boss. From what he¡¯d read, not all Dungeons had bosses. Some required Adventurers to reach a certain number of kills to exit. That might sound easy, but having hundreds¡ªor thousands¡ªof monsters attacking from every direction was a nightmare scenario.


    He hoped he wouldn¡¯t encounter a Dungeon like that anytime soon.


    Eventually, he reached the end of the hall, which puzzled him. As he turned around, he noticed a figure standing in the distance.


    The being wasn¡¯t tall¡ªin fact, it was roughly his size. It was cloaked in dark, tattered robes that obscured its appearance. In its hand, it held a staff topped with a dark green gem.


    ''What¡¯s that? Never read anything about them,'' he thought, raising his guard.


    The monster pointed its staff at him, dark energy crackling around the gem.


    ''Well, whatever it is, I¡¯ll kill it before it makes its next move,'' he thought, gripping his sword tightly.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 2

    The being began to conjure a spell, the gem on its staff glowing brighter than ever before. The sinister green light spread through the Dungeon, casting eerie shadows that seemed to writhe on the walls. Travis¡¯s instincts screamed at him¡ªhe couldn¡¯t afford to let it finish whatever it was preparing.


    Without hesitation, he sprang forward, cutting through the air with incredible speed.


    The monster unleashed its attack just as he closed the distance. A massive wave of black flames roared toward him, the heat prickling against his skin even from a distance. The spell was enormous, spanning the entire width of the hallway. There was no room to dodge left or right¡ªit was like a wall of mana crashing down on him.


    ''Too big to sidestep,'' he thought quickly, his eyes scanning the approaching attack.


    At the last moment, he dropped low, sliding on the smooth stone floor beneath the torrent of flames. The searing heat passed just inches above him, scorching the air. He could feel his heart pounding, but he didn¡¯t stop. As soon as he cleared the flames, Travis sprang to his feet, his sword already in motion.


    In one fluid motion, he closed the gap and slashed his blade through the monster¡¯s chest. The sharp steel struck true, shattering the glowing gem embedded within its body. A sickening crack echoed through the Dungeon as the creature froze, its dark form trembling before crumbling into dust.


    Travis turned back, watching as the last remnants of the monster scattered into the air, leaving no trace behind. He let out a small breath of relief and smirked.


    ''Well, good thing I moved first. That thing was nasty. Makes sense now¡ªthis dead-end was a trap, designed to force you into a fight. That was close,'' he thought, brushing off his sleeves.


    He sheathed his sword and started to head back when a bright light flared behind him. Squinting, he turned to see the unmistakable glow of an exit portal forming where the monster had been moments before.


    ¡°Guess that¡¯s my cue,¡± Travis muttered, stepping into the light with a grin.


    The light faded, and he found himself outside the Dungeon¡¯s first floor. The cool night air greeted him, and the silence was almost unnerving. He glanced around, expecting to see adventurers camped outside or preparing their gear. But there was no one.


    The area was eerily deserted, the only sounds coming from the rustling leaves and the distant call of nocturnal creatures.The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    ''Weird. Did everyone go inside already?'' he thought, assuming it was normal.


    What Travis didn¡¯t realize was that everyone had left. It was late at night, and no adventurer with any sense would dive into a Dungeon at this hour. There was an unwritten rule every experienced adventurer followed¡ªnever go Dungeon diving at night. The dangers multiplied in the dark, and most monsters became far more aggressive and unpredictable.


    Oblivious to the risk, Travis pressed on toward the entrance to the second floor.


    The gateway loomed before him, pulsing faintly as it prepared to draw him inside. Without hesitation, he stepped forward.


    ''Wonder what it has in store for me,'' he thought, feeling the pull of the Dungeon¡¯s magic.


    In an instant, the world shifted around him, and Travis vanished into the second floor.


    ......


    Outside the Dungeon, in the bustling town of Eldermoor, the tension was palpable. At the center of the town stood the governor¡¯s estate, a grand building of stone and polished wood, its tall windows glowing faintly in the dim evening light. Inside, the mood was far from serene.


    Governor Anthony Kole, a middle-aged man with sharp features, black hair streaked with gray, and piercing brown eyes, sat at the head of a long oak table. Around him, his executives and several key figures of the town had gathered. The room, lined with shelves of books and maps of the region, felt stiflingly silent as they waited for someone to speak.


    Anthony leaned forward, his elbows resting on the polished surface of the table, and sighed heavily. His normally steady demeanor was strained, his expression grim.


    ¡°Are you certain about what you¡¯re saying?¡± he asked, his voice steady but laced with unease.


    The messenger, a wiry man in dirt-streaked traveling clothes, nodded vigorously, his face pale. ¡°Yes, sir. When I was outside the town, I saw them. A whole horde marching toward this area. While it doesn¡¯t look like they¡¯re aiming for Eldermoor directly, they¡¯ll pass close enough. And we all know what that means.¡±


    The room erupted into murmurs, some of the council exchanging worried glances, while others sat frozen. Anthony raised a hand, silencing them.


    He exhaled deeply and leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing as his mind raced. ¡°A threat, indeed,¡± he muttered before slamming his fist onto the table, the sound echoing sharply. ¡°A Bloody Ogre Horde!¡±


    The words hung in the air like a curse. Everyone in the room knew the gravity of the situation. Ogres were bad enough individually, but an entire horde? They were known to leave destruction in their wake, razing villages and towns to the ground without mercy.


    Jason Moore, the guildmaster of Eldermoor¡¯s Adventurer¡¯s Guild, rose from his seat, his imposing figure adding weight to his words. ¡°Governor Kole, we need to act quickly. If they¡¯re already near Danyl Town, they¡¯ll reach us by tomorrow night at the latest. We can muster a group of adventurers to prepare for their arrival.¡±


    Anthony rubbed his temples. ¡°And how do you plan to handle a horde with just adventurers? Even with our best, they¡¯ll be outnumbered and outmatched.¡±


    Jason¡¯s tone didn¡¯t waver. ¡°We¡¯ll gather all B-Rank and higher adventurers in the town. It¡¯s the best we can do with the time we have. Meanwhile, I suggest you send an urgent request to the Adventurer¡¯s Guild headquarters for reinforcements¡ªpreferably someone at S-Rank.¡±


    Another council member, a rotund merchant with a nervous tic, spoke up. ¡°But will they even get here in time? The headquarters is far¡ªdays away!¡±


    Anthony held up a hand to stop the man¡¯s panicked rambling. ¡°We don¡¯t have the luxury of debating this. Jason, start gathering the adventurers immediately. I¡¯ll write to the guild and offer whatever resources they need to get an S-Rank here as fast as possible. If we fail to act now, Eldermoor could be reduced to ashes.¡±


    Jason nodded sharply, his expression resolute. ¡°I¡¯ll see to it at once.¡±


    As Jason left the room to rally the town¡¯s adventurers, Anthony remained seated, his gaze fixed on the map sprawled across the table. His mind churned with strategy and worry. Eldermoor wasn¡¯t just a town to him¡ªit was home to thousands of lives, each one depending on him to make the right decision.


    He clenched his fists. ''We¡¯ve faced threats before, but nothing like this. If we¡¯re not careful, we might not survive''


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 3

    Travis was now at floor five, facing a swarm of poisonous cave spiders. Their jagged legs clicked against the cold stone floor, and the faint hissing sound of venom dripping from their fangs echoed through the cavern. He sprinted towards them, his sword gleaming under the dim torchlight, ready to slice through their ranks¡ªand that¡¯s exactly what he did.


    With a powerful vertical slash, he cleaved through the first spider, splitting its grotesque body clean in half. Green, viscous blood sprayed from the creature, splattering the ground as its twitching remains crumpled. The acrid scent of the fluid stung his nose, but he didn¡¯t falter. Without missing a beat, Travis pivoted, setting his sights on the next spider in line.


    It hissed violently and spat a cloud of poisonous gas at him. Reflexively, he raised his cloak, pulling it tightly over his face. To his surprise, the heavy fabric worked well enough to filter the toxins, allowing him to push through the foul-smelling mist. With swift precision, he lunged forward, his blade driving into the spider¡¯s face. Its shriek was short-lived as he twisted the sword, severing its head in a single, decisive motion.


    Another spider lunged from the side, spewing a stream of toxic acid in his direction. Travis dodged, rolling across the floor as the acid sizzled on the stone where he had stood moments before. Rising to his feet, he locked eyes with the creature, his bright gaze sharp with determination.


    ''You''re next,'' he thought, lips curling into a grim smile. He dashed forward, feinting left before delivering a devastating upward slash that left the spider in pieces.


    Within moments, the cavern was eerily silent, save for the faint drip of venom pooling beneath the dead spiders. Travis surveyed the carnage, letting out a long sigh as he flicked the sticky ichor from his blade. Lowering his makeshift mask, he grimaced at the lingering stench.


    ''That was disgusting. But they weren¡¯t much of a challenge, honestly. Am I that OP? Guess I am,'' he thought, feeling a surge of pride as a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.


    As he ventured deeper into the dungeon, the air grew heavier, and the dim light revealed an unsettling sight¡ªspider webs, thick and sticky, covering every surface. They hung from the ceiling like ghostly drapes and clung to the walls in chaotic tangles. A shiver ran down his spine as his pace slowed. His stomach tightened, his deep-seated arachnophobia bubbling to the surface.


    ''Great, just my luck,'' he thought, his fingers tightening around his sword hilt. ''Why did it have to be spiders?''


    Soon Travis saw the boss, perched at the end of the dimly lit hall, hanging from a thick strand of its own shimmering web. It was three times larger than the ones he had fought before, its grotesque body adorned with jagged spikes and oozing venom from its mandibles. Just the sight of it sent a cold chill down his spine, but his blood surged in response, a mixture of fear and adrenaline flooding his veins.


    ''I should kill it fast before I freakin'' start panicking,'' he thought, gripping his sword tightly as if it were the only thing anchoring him to courage.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    The spider''s eyes suddenly opened, glistening orbs of malice locking onto him. It tilted its grotesque head before dropping from its web with a deafening thud, the impact shaking the ground and forcing Travis to steady himself. Dust and debris cascaded from the ceiling, and the tremor traveled through his boots.


    The creature let out a piercing screech, a sound so sharp it rattled his skull. The force of the screech sent a gale of wind barreling toward him, pushing him back a step and making his cloak flutter wildly.


    ''I guess this won''t be as easy as I thought. Whatever,'' he thought, narrowing his eyes. His heart was hammering in his chest, but he refused to let his fear paralyze him. With a deep breath, he began to sprint toward the monstrous arachnid.


    The spider responded instantly, its multitude of legs pounding against the ground in a blur of movement. Its sheer speed caught Travis off guard as it closed the gap in an instant, one of its spindly legs slashing toward him like a whip.


    He threw himself to the side, barely escaping the razor-sharp appendage. The air whistled past his ear from the near-miss, and he rolled to his feet, his grip on his sword tightening. He couldn¡¯t afford to make a single mistake.


    The spider lunged again, its massive legs crashing down in an arc that forced Travis to roll backward. Dust and splinters from the stone floor scattered as he narrowly evaded its crushing strike.


    *crack*


    He came up on one knee, gripping his sword tightly. The blade gleamed faintly in the dim light, and Travis''s eyes sharpened with focus.


    The spider hissed, venom dripping from its fangs and sizzling as it hit the ground. With a sharp swing of its front leg, it lashed at Travis like a scythe. He sidestepped just in time, the air humming from the force of the attack. Without hesitation, he retaliated, slashing his sword at the leg. Sparks flew as steel met the creature''s chitinous armor, leaving a shallow gash but failing to sever it.


    "Damn, you''re tougher than I thought," Travis muttered under his breath.


    The spider screeched in rage and reared back, spitting a glob of venom straight at him. Travis dove to the side, the toxic liquid splattering where he''d stood a moment ago, melting through the floor with a sharp hiss.


    ''Stay sharp, Travis. You screw up, you''re dead,'' he told himself, wiping sweat from his brow before charging forward.


    Closing the distance, he ducked under another swipe from the spider''s leg and slashed at its underbelly. This time, his blade found softer flesh, slicing through and spilling dark, viscous blood onto the ground. The creature howled in pain, thrashing violently, and sent Travis stumbling backward.


    It didn¡¯t give him a moment to recover. The spider charged with terrifying speed, its bulk barreling toward him like a freight train. Travis planted his feet, bracing himself, and swung his sword horizontally as it came close. The blade caught one of its legs mid-motion, severing it completely. The spider screeched in agony, collapsing slightly to one side as it stumbled from the loss of balance.


    Taking advantage of the opening, Travis darted to its flank and slashed at its abdomen. His blade bit deep, but before he could pull back, the spider twisted its body, striking him with one of its remaining legs. The force sent him flying, slamming him into the wall.


    * Bang *


    Pain radiated through his back, but he forced himself to his feet, ignoring the sharp sting in his ribs.


    The spider loomed over him, wounded but unrelenting, its mandibles clicking menacingly. Travis gritted his teeth. He needed to end this now.


    In a burst of adrenaline, he sprinted toward the creature. It reared up again, preparing another venomous attack, but this time, Travis had a plan. As its head rose higher, he leapt into the air with all his strength, using the wall as a springboard to gain more height. His sword gleamed as he raised it high above his head, aiming directly for the spider''s skull.


    With a shout, he came down like a meteor, driving the blade straight between the creature¡¯s glowing eyes. The force of the impact sent a jolt up his arms, but the strike was true. The spider let out one final, deafening screech before collapsing to the ground in a heap, its legs twitching and curling inward.


    Travis landed on his feet, his chest heaving as he pulled his sword free from its head. He staggered back, the blood-soaked blade hanging at his side as he watched the monstrous creature finally go still.


    "Yeah," he muttered, a weak grin tugging at his lips. "Not so tough now, are you?"


    He wiped the blade clean on his cloak and turned toward the exit, his legs trembling but his resolve stronger than ever.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 4

    That very second he cringed '' Man I should have not said that. I''m not some main character to a isekai revenge story. Honestly if I was I''d probably have an elf girl chasing me around by now. Honestly I haven''t met a hot elf even once since I got here. In fact I haven''t seen even a single drop dead gorgeous person at all. Guess beauty doesn''t matter here ''


    The exit opened and Travis walked out. He sat down and began drinking the hunger potion while he thought about his whole experience in the Dungeon. So far he''s been breezing through every floor like nothing.


    He hopes the other levels will be harder though, which is what he''s most excited for. But for now he''ll just have to do with whatever the Dungeon throws at him. He stood up and walked towards the next sixth floor. He prayed for a challenge as he he was pulled inside.


    As Travis opened his eyes, the intense heat hit him first, prickling his skin and making the air feel heavy. The room around him was unlike anything he''d encountered before¡ªa cavernous expanse of volcanic ruins illuminated by the fiery glow of molten rock. Rivers of lava snaked through jagged cracks in the obsidian floor, their orange and red hues pulsing like liquid fire.


    The walls, blackened and scorched, bore ancient carvings partially melted and warped by the intense heat. Every breath carried the acrid scent of sulfur, and the distant sound of bubbling lava filled the oppressive silence.


    ''What the fuck!!'' was the only thing he could think of in this situation. Sweat dripped down his forehead, tracing the curve of his temple before falling to the cold, stone floor. His eyes darted around the dimly lit chamber, the flickering torchlight casting eerie shadows on the walls. There was no exit¡ªjust an unbroken expanse of stone encasing him. He wasn¡¯t surprised by this revelation; still, his stomach churned with unease. Right now, more than anything, he wanted to see a way out.


    ''Am I going to fight a dragon or something?'' The thought pierced through his mind, his pulse quickening at the mere idea. ''I hope that actually doesn¡¯t happen. At least not anytime soon.'' The mental image of claws, scales, and fire made him tighten his grip on the hilt of his sword.


    Travis stepped forward cautiously, his sword held ready, the steel catching faint glints of light. Each step echoed in the suffocating silence, the sound bouncing off the walls like a countdown. Nothing occupied his mind¡ªjust the rhythm of his own breathing and the feel of the stone path beneath his boots. The air felt heavy, pressing against his chest, as if the room itself wanted to weigh him down. Yet, he continued, his gaze fixed ahead, unblinking and unshaken.


    He was then stopped as he saw a monster up ahead. A massive Fire Salamander blocked his path, its scaled body shimmering like molten lava. Heat radiated from the creature, making the air around it waver like a mirage. Its eyes glowed a fierce amber, and its maw dripped with magma-like saliva, sizzling as it hit the ground.


    Travis tightened his grip on his sword, his knuckles turning white. The creature''s tail, long and tipped with flame, lashed the ground with a crack that echoed like a whip.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    ''Of course, it¡¯s fire. Why not something less deadly, like a rabbit or a turtle?'' he thought bitterly, sweat now pouring down his face.


    The salamander roared, the sound reverberating in Travis''s chest. Without warning, it lunged forward, its massive body moving faster than he anticipated. Travis barely dodged, throwing himself to the side as the creature¡¯s fiery claws raked the ground where he¡¯d just been standing. Sparks flew, the heat singeing his arm as he rolled to his feet.


    He charged, aiming for the salamander¡¯s side, but the creature twisted, its tail whipping around. The blow caught him in the ribs, the heat searing through his clothes and into his skin. Pain exploded in his side, and he stumbled, gasping as the acrid smell of burnt fabric and flesh hit his nose.


    ''Stay focused,'' he told himself, gritting his teeth.


    The salamander loomed over him, jaws snapping as it tried to end the fight with a single bite. Travis threw up his sword, the blade catching the creature¡¯s teeth with a screech of metal against bone. Sparks flew as he pushed back, his muscles screaming from the effort.


    He managed to twist free, sliding under the salamander¡¯s belly. With a desperate swing, he slashed at the softer scales beneath it. The blade bit deep, and the creature let out a deafening screech, flailing as lava-like blood poured from the wound.


    The salamander retaliated, its claws slamming down toward him. Travis barely evaded, but not before one claw caught his shoulder, tearing through flesh. He cried out, stumbling back as blood soaked his sleeve. His vision blurred for a moment, the heat and pain threatening to overwhelm him.


    ''Not yet,'' he thought, forcing himself to focus. ''I didn¡¯t come this far to die here.''


    Summoning what strength he had left, he lunged again, aiming for the salamander¡¯s neck. The creature reared back, flames bursting from its mouth in a wild arc. Travis ducked, feeling the intense heat singe the hair on the back of his neck.


    In one swift motion, he drove his blade into the base of the creature¡¯s throat, twisting it with every ounce of strength he had left. The salamander let out a final, guttural roar before collapsing, its massive body hitting the ground with a resounding thud.


    Travis staggered back, clutching his bleeding shoulder as he gasped for breath. The creature¡¯s body smoldered, the heat still radiating from its lifeless form. His side throbbed, and every movement sent jolts of pain through his body, but he was alive.


    ''Now that was a battle!! If that¡¯s the first monster, I don¡¯t want to imagine what¡¯ll follow after,'' he thought, the smirk fading slightly as the sharp sting in his shoulder reminded him of the cost.


    Travis looked down at his armor¡ªonce pristine, now scorched and torn, barely clinging to his battered body. He adjusted it as best he could, wincing as the movement sent a fresh wave of pain through his ribs and shoulder. Blood still seeped from the gash, staining the fabric beneath, but there was no time to dwell on it. Survival was the only thing that mattered.


    The air around him was heavy, the residual heat from the salamander lingering like a ghost. Every breath felt like fire in his lungs, but he forced himself to keep moving. His legs trembled beneath him, but he gritted his teeth, his determination outweighing the agony. He couldn¡¯t afford to stop.


    ''Focus,'' he thought, narrowing his eyes at the darkened path ahead. The stone floor stretched onward, disappearing into shadows that seemed to whisper of new dangers.


    ''I need to fight smarter next time,'' he mused, the memory of the salamander¡¯s claws tearing into him replaying in his mind. ''Less damage, bigger blows. No playing around.'' He tightened his grip on his sword, still smeared with the glowing blood of the creature he¡¯d slain.


    The sound of his boots echoed in the silence, each step deliberate, each step heavier than the last. The oppressive atmosphere seemed to close in on him, as if the walls themselves were alive, watching, waiting for him to falter. But he wouldn¡¯t. He couldn¡¯t.


    Travis steeled his mind, forcing himself to push forward. The stone path felt endless, but stopping wasn¡¯t an option. With every step, his resolve hardened, and despite the throbbing pain in his body, he kept his head high.


    He muttered under his breath, "If I can handle that overgrown lizard, I can handle whatever else this place throws at me." The words felt hollow, a thin veil over the unease creeping up his spine, but he repeated them like a mantra.


    The shadows ahead seemed to ripple, the faint sound of movement reaching his ears. He stopped, his muscles tensing, and raised his sword. His heart pounded in his chest as he stared into the darkness.


    ''Here we go again,'' he thought, his grip tightening. ''This time, I¡¯m ready.''


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 5

    He found the boss of the Dungeon, and it was one mean-looking monster. The cavern rumbled faintly as the creature shifted, its massive body illuminated by the flickering glow of molten rock pools scattered across the chamber. The monster Travis was about to face was a Drake¡ªa wingless dragon, but no less fearsome.


    Its crimson scales shimmered like freshly forged steel, veins of molten gold pulsing across its hide with a rhythm akin to a heartbeat. Two jagged horns jutted from its head, curling slightly inward as if designed to skewer anyone foolish enough to approach. Its amber eyes glowed with an intense, predatory light, scanning the intruder with a mix of curiosity and malice.


    Travis gulped at the sight of the Flameborn Drake. Its nostrils flared, releasing faint wisps of smoke that spiraled upward, dissipating into the heat-heavy air. The heat of the chamber seemed to intensify with every step the creature took, each clawed foot leaving scorch marks on the rocky floor.


    ''This is going to suck,'' he thought, gripping his weapon tightly, his palms slick with sweat.


    The Drake''s tail, spiked and as long as a battering ram, lashed behind it, carving deep grooves into the stone walls. It let out a low growl, a sound so deep it seemed to reverberate through Travis''s chest, promising that this fight would be nothing short of brutal.


    It then began to gallop at him at high speed.


    The Drake¡¯s tail whipped toward him with terrifying force.


    WHOOM


    Travis raised his sword to block, but the sheer force of the impact sent him skidding across the rocky floor.


    CRASH


    His back slammed into a jagged boulder, knocking the wind out of him.


    He groaned, scrambling to his feet just as the Drake charged, its claws carving into the stone with every step.


    THUD THUD


    It swiped at him, and Travis barely managed to roll out of the way.


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    SWISH


    The claws gouged deep furrows into the ground where he¡¯d been.


    His chest heaved as he dodged another blow, sweat dripping into his eyes. The heat of the chamber was suffocating, his movements slower than he needed them to be. He swung his blade desperately, but the Drake¡¯s thick scales deflected the attack with ease.


    CLANG


    The vibration traveled up his arms, leaving them numb for a split second¡ªjust long enough for the Drake to lunge again.


    Its massive head rammed into him.


    THUD


    Travis flew backward, his sword clattering to the ground. Pain flared through his ribs as he rolled to a stop, gasping for air.


    ''This thing is a monster,'' he thought, gritting his teeth as he crawled toward his weapon. The Drake loomed over him, molten eyes gleaming with predatory intent. It opened its mouth, flames beginning to build in its throat.


    Travis¡¯s fingers wrapped around the hilt of his blade, but he knew he couldn¡¯t keep this up much longer.


    ''I need to end this... I have to use my Mana.'' Taking a shaky breath, he closed his eyes and reached inward, summoning the Mana he had been holding back.


    The Drake roared, its guttural cry shaking the cavern walls.


    "ROOOAR!!"


    The sheer force of its voice sent loose rocks tumbling from the ceiling, but Travis didn¡¯t flinch. He couldn¡¯t. His heart pounded like a war drum, adrenaline coursing through his veins.


    ''Focus. Speed. Precision,'' he told himself, gathering Mana in his core.


    The energy surged through his body, an electrifying force that made his muscles feel weightless and his movements sharp.


    The Drake lunged, its maw opening wide, revealing rows of serrated teeth glowing with heat.


    WHOOSH


    The creature''s breath ignited into a blazing inferno, a torrent of fire spewing toward Travis.


    ¡°Not today!¡± he shouted, diving to the side. His enhanced speed turned his movement into a blur.


    SWISH


    The fire roared past him, scorching the ground where he¡¯d just stood, leaving molten rock in its wake.


    Travis landed and charged forward, his Mana-enhanced legs propelling him like a streak of lightning. His boots hit the ground with rapid thud, each step closing the distance between him and the Drake. The beast swung its tail in a deadly arc.


    WHOOM


    Travis ducked low, the tail slicing the air just inches above his head.


    SWOOSH


    The force of the swing created a gust that tousled his hair, but he kept moving, channeling more Mana into his sword arm. The blade in his hand began to hum, glowing faintly with the energy pouring into it.


    The Drake snapped its jaws at him.


    CRUNCH


    Travis spun to the side, avoiding the deadly bite, and leapt onto the creature''s back in one fluid motion.


    TAP TAP


    His boots hit the scaly surface, the heat searing through his soles, but he didn¡¯t waver.


    The Drake roared again, thrashing violently, trying to dislodge him.


    " ROAAARRR!"


    ¡°Time to end this!¡± Travis roared back, channeling every ounce of Mana he had left into his sword. The blade blazed with energy, its glow now blinding. Raising it high above his head, he focused, feeling the Mana surging through him like a storm.


    The Drake reared up, giving him the perfect opening. With a fierce battle cry, Travis swung the sword down with all his might.


    WHOOSH


    SHIIINGGGG


    The blade sliced clean through the Drake¡¯s tough scales as if they were paper, carving a massive gash from its shoulder to its chest. A brilliant burst of energy exploded from the strike, sending shockwaves through the cavern.


    BOOOM


    The Drake let out a final, agonized roar.


    RAAARGHH


    Its massive body collapsed, shaking the ground like an earthquake.


    THUD


    The glowing veins across its scales dimmed and went dark as the beast lay still.


    Panting, Travis stumbled back, his sword¡¯s glow fading as the Mana left him. He stared at the defeated monster, the cavern now eerily silent except for the faint crackle of molten rock. He sheathed his blade, exhaustion catching up to him, but a small grin tugged at his lips.


    ''Best fight ever,'' he thought, before sinking to his knees, letting the adrenaline ebb away.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 6

    When the door to the exit appeared, Travis pushed himself up and strode out of the Dungeon. The stale, oppressive air gave way to the crisp breeze of the outside world, which hit his sweat-slicked skin like a refreshing wave. He dropped to the ground, the hard surface beneath him a welcome reminder of his progress.


    His gaze locked on the glowing number "6" etched into the nearby monolith. A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. This was exactly why he had ventured into the Dungeon¡ªto fight, to endure, and to grow stronger.


    His muscles protested as he stood, his legs heavy with exhaustion. He fumbled for the hunger potion in his pouch, uncorking it with a sharp twist. The liquid slid down his throat, rich and satisfying, banishing the gnawing emptiness in his stomach. He exhaled deeply, the tension in his body easing slightly.


    Tilting his head back, he stared at the looming entrance to the next floor, its ominous aura practically daring him to continue.


    ''Can''t wait to reach the last one,'' he thought, a glimmer of determination sparking in his eyes. Adjusting his gear, he pressed forward, each step resonating with resolve.


    ---


    Outside the village, chaos reigned as the governor ensured every resident evacuated toward the safety of the forest. His jaw was set tight, his weathered face etched with lines of worry. The last thing he needed was the burden of worrying about casualties.


    The streets were a frenzied mess of villagers clutching prized possessions, ignoring his repeated orders to carry only the essentials. Pots, heirlooms, and bundles of clothing weighed them down, slowing their escape. Yet none of them seemed to care; their trembling hands and hurried steps spoke of relief that they were alive and together.


    At the edge of the village, Anthony stood grim-faced, overseeing the evacuation. He had already dispatched the urgent request for an S-ranked adventurer. It was a rare and powerful designation, one that carried the weight of the Emperor¡¯s approval. Unlike the more common D to A ranks, S was a mark of distinction, reserved for those who had surpassed even the elite knights.


    Once, only knights had been granted such an honor. But as adventurers began to rival¡ªand often exceed¡ªthe strength of imperial knights, the rank was expanded to include them. Now, across the empire, over two million S-ranked adventurers carried unique powers, each more extraordinary than the last.


    The guildmaster stormed into his office, his boots echoing against the polished wooden floor as he pushed the door closed behind him.


    "I''ve gathered all the adventurers. They''re all on the front lines right now," he reported quickly, his voice carrying a mix of urgency and weariness.


    Anthony nodded, his sharp gaze fixed on the map spread out on the desk. "Thank you," he replied, his tone calm but edged with tension.


    The guildmaster hesitated for a moment, then added, "I hope everything goes as planned."


    Anthony straightened, his fingers brushing against the edge of the map. "So do I," he said gravely. "As long as that S-ranked adventurer arrives early, we''ll have nothing to worry about."


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    The guildmaster crossed his arms, leaning against the doorframe. "Yes, that''s what I''m counting on too. But if not... I hope our adventurers are prepared for the worst."


    Anthony''s jaw tightened. "They''ll have to be," he murmured, more to himself than anyone else.


    ---


    In front of the city gates, dozens of adventurers stood at the ready. Some leaned casually on their weapons, their faces calm and composed, while others shifted nervously, their hands gripping hilts or staff shafts with white-knuckled tension.


    "Why do I have to fight for this stupid town? I don''t even live here," muttered an adventurer named Caleb, his tone dripping with frustration. He adjusted the straps of his armor, clearly displeased.


    Jacob, standing beside him, smirked. "They promised us a reward, remember? That¡¯s all I¡¯m looking forward to. I need new gear, and this payout should cover it."


    Logan, their tall and broad-shouldered friend, chuckled, cracking his knuckles. "Same here, but I¡¯m in it for the fight too. Never fought ogres before. Heard they¡¯re pretty strong."


    The trio, a well-known party in the guild, had been together for years. Though they had grown up in the same town, their friendship had truly deepened as they faced the trials of adventuring life together. Their bond was evident in the way they spoke¡ªgruff words masking a trust forged in countless battles.


    As the minutes passed, the ground''s tremors grew stronger. Every adventurer felt the vibrations creeping up their legs, rattling their bones. When the ogre army finally crested the hill, it was a sight that stole the breath from their lungs.


    The ogres towered above any human, their hulking forms clad in piecemeal armor of iron, bone, and leather. Massive clubs, axes, and spiked maces rested on their broad shoulders. Their guttural chants rolled across the battlefield like thunder, their yellow eyes gleaming with bloodlust.


    "Gods help us," Caleb muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.


    "Steady yourselves!" Marcus called, his voice cutting through the rising panic. "We¡¯ve fought worse!"


    Logan exhaled sharply, gripping his greatsword with both hands. "If we live through this, I¡¯m getting a drink the size of one of those bastards."


    Caleb glanced at him, smirking despite his nerves. "Drinks are on you if we survive."


    The ogres¡¯ pace quickened, their charge rumbling like an avalanche. The first wave bore down on the adventurers, their thunderous footfalls growing deafening.


    "Get ready!" Marcus roared. "Mages, now!"


    A fiery explosion erupted on the left flank as Marcus slammed his staff into the ground.


    "Infernal Pillar!" A massive column of fire shot skyward, engulfing several ogres in a blazing inferno. Their roars of pain shook the battlefield, but more surged forward, undeterred by the carnage.


    Beside him, the silver-haired mage raised her hands, her eyes glowing brighter. "Glacial Prison!" Massive spikes of ice burst from the ground, impaling an ogre mid-charge. The beast groaned and collapsed, but its comrades trampled over its body, shattering the ice as they advanced.


    The first ogre to reach the adventurer''s line swung a club the size of a tree trunk. Logan sidestepped just in time, the wind from the blow rustling his hair. With a shout, he brought his greatsword down on the ogre¡¯s exposed leg, slicing deep into its flesh. The beast howled, dropping to one knee, and Logan finished it with a clean upward slash to its neck.


    "One down!" Logan yelled, though his triumph was short-lived. Another ogre loomed over him, its mace raised high.


    "Move, Logan!" Caleb shouted, throwing one of his daggers. The blade embedded itself in the ogre¡¯s eye, making it stagger back with a guttural roar.


    Jacob loosed an arrow, striking the beast in the throat, and it collapsed, choking on its own blood.


    "Thanks, both of you," Logan panted, rolling his shoulder.


    "Don¡¯t get cocky!" Jacob warned, already nocking another arrow.


    The battle raged on. Ogres smashed through shields and bodies alike, their raw strength overwhelming the adventurers. A young mage tried to cast a spell but was struck down by a massive club before she could finish the incantation, her lifeless body flung like a ragdoll.


    "Fall back! Regroup!" Marcus yelled, his voice straining as he unleashed a torrent of fire to cover their retreat.


    "No retreat!" a burly warrior bellowed, planting his shield in the dirt to stop an ogre''s advance. The beast swung its axe, splitting the shield¡ªand the man behind it¡ªin two.


    "Keep fighting!" Caleb yelled, darting in and out of the chaos. His daggers flashed as he targeted weak points, severing tendons and stabbing at vital spots.


    An ogre slammed its fist into the ground, narrowly missing Caleb, who rolled away and stabbed upward, his blade plunging into its thick forearm. It bellowed in pain and backhanded him, sending him sprawling across the dirt.


    "Caleb!" Logan roared, charging to his friend''s aid. His greatsword struck true, cleaving through the ogre¡¯s arm before burying itself in its chest.


    Marcus, now drenched in sweat, raised his staff again. "We can¡¯t keep this up!!"


    "Save your breath," the silver-haired mage muttered, her voice cold as the frost forming around her hands. "Focus on surviving."


    With a sweep of her arms, a torrent of icy spikes shot forth, piercing through the ogres in her path. One fell, but two more advanced, shattering the ice as they stomped forward.


    The adventurers were losing ground, their ranks thinning as more fell to the relentless assault. Despite their desperation, the ogres showed no signs of slowing.


    "We¡¯re outnumbered!" someone screamed.


    "No kidding!" Logan growled, stepping in front of Caleb as another ogre barreled toward them. "Get up, Caleb. We¡¯re not dying here!"


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 7

    Back in the dungeon, Travis stood before the last door¡ªthe infamous looming Door No. 10. Unlike all the others, Door No. 10 was at the very end of the dimly lit hall. It was massive, carved with intricate yet foreboding symbols that seemed to twist and writhe in the flickering torchlight. The tall, intimidating structure exuded a palpable menace, as though it were alive and aware of his presence.


    His battered armor hung loosely on his body, barely functional. Only the metal protecting his thighs remained intact, a grim reminder of how close he¡¯d come to death. The drapes he¡¯d worn for additional cover had been torn to shreds, and his pouch¡ªonce filled with potions and supplies¡ªwas now useless. He dropped it to the ground with a dull thud, the sound swallowed by the suffocating silence around him.


    Travis¡¯s eyes were hollow, devoid of the spark they¡¯d held when he first entered this dungeon. Every step here had been a fight for survival, each door forcing him to push past his limits. His body ached with exhaustion, but his mind was resolute.


    ''Man, I''m tired. I should do this quickly,'' he thought, his hand tightening around his sword as he rested it on his shoulder.


    Taking a deep breath, he approached the towering doors, half-expecting the familiar sensation of being transported to the next challenge. Instead, the doors creaked and groaned, swinging open before him with an ominous finality.


    He froze, startled by the sight inside. It wasn¡¯t another chamber or battlefield. It was a long, dimly lit tunnel, the walls rough and uneven as if they had been carved in haste. At the far end, a bright light flickered, accompanied by the distant roar of a crowd. The noise sent a chill down his spine.


    Stepping cautiously forward, he glanced back just as the doors slammed shut behind him, sealing him inside. He wasn¡¯t surprised¡ªthey always did that¡ªbut the atmosphere felt different here. The air was heavier, oppressive, as if something was waiting for him. Keeping his guard up, he moved steadily toward the light.


    When he reached the tunnel¡¯s end, his breath caught. The scene was eerily familiar¡ªa massive coliseum stretched out before him, its sandy floor illuminated by an otherworldly glow. Surrounding him were rows upon rows of skeleton spectators, their hollow eyes gleaming as they cheered with an unsettling enthusiasm. Their bony fingers clattered together, creating a chilling cacophony.


    ''I guess this is the final boss,'' Travis thought, his gaze shifting toward the center of the arena. There, a throne materialized from thin air, its dark stone surface jagged and crude. Seated upon it was a massive minotaur, its golden eyes glowing like molten metal.


    "I am Gladia, and I¡¯ve been waiting for you, challenger," the beast bellowed, its deep voice reverberating through the coliseum. "Now let us have the battle of our lives!"


    Travis remained silent, his expression unreadable. He didn¡¯t have the energy for banter. His grip tightened on his sword as Gladia rose from the throne, reaching for the colossal axe beside him. The minotaur towered over the arena, its muscles rippling with raw power.


    With a thunderous roar, Gladia swung the axe, shattering the throne into fragments. The impact sent a shockwave rippling through the arena, kicking up a whirlwind of dust and sand. The skeletal crowd erupted in a frenzy, their cheers reaching a fever pitch.


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    Facing Travis, Gladia¡¯s lips curled into a menacing smirk. "Now let us begin," he snarled, smoke billowing from his nostrils.


    Travis exhaled slowly, lifting his sword.


    '' Alright. Here we go again,'' he thought, readying himself for the fight of his life.


    Travis tightened his grip on his sword, feeling the weight of exhaustion in his limbs as he stared down the minotaur. Gladia¡¯s golden eyes burned like twin suns, locking onto him with predatory intensity. The skeleton audience roared louder, their clattering bones echoing across the coliseum as the towering beast stomped forward. Each step sent tremors through the ground, the vibrations crawling up Travis¡¯s legs.


    Gladia swung his colossal axe in a slow, deliberate arc, the sharp edge gleaming in the ethereal light. "Let us see if you can handle me, challenger," the beast growled, smoke curling from his nostrils.


    Travis barely had time to process the words before the minotaur charged, closing the gap between them with alarming speed. The axe came down in a diagonal slash, aimed to cleave him in two.


    Eyes wide, Travis dove to the side, narrowly avoiding the blade. The axe struck the sand where he¡¯d been standing, creating an explosion of grit that stung his skin. He rolled to his feet, gasping for breath, but Gladia was relentless.


    The minotaur spun, his axe whistling through the air in a follow-up strike. Travis raised his sword just in time to parry, the force of the blow sending a painful jolt through his arms. He staggered back, his boots sliding in the loose sand, but Gladia pressed forward, swinging the axe in wide, brutal arcs that left no room for counterattacks.


    The crowd roared their approval as Travis struggled to keep up. Each swing from Gladia felt like a sledgehammer, and each block or dodge sapped more of his dwindling strength. A feint caught him off guard¡ªGladia lunged as if to swing from the left but twisted his massive body to strike from the right. Travis barely managed to sidestep, but the axe grazed his shoulder, tearing through the remnants of his armor and drawing a thin line of blood.


    Travis hissed in pain, stumbling back. ''Damn it '' he thought, clutching his shoulder.


    "Is that all you¡¯ve got?" Gladia taunted, his deep voice rumbling like thunder. He spun the axe with ease, the weapon¡¯s weight clearly no burden to him. "This is hardly worth my time!"


    Anger flared in Travis¡¯s chest, pushing back the fatigue. He rushed forward, ducking low as Gladia swung again. The axe passed inches above his head, and he seized the opening, slashing upward at the minotaur¡¯s exposed flank.


    His blade connected, cutting a shallow wound along Gladia¡¯s side. The beast snarled, staggering briefly, but the injury only seemed to fuel his rage.


    "You dare!" Gladia roared, swinging his axe horizontally. The speed of the attack left Travis no time to dodge, so he dropped to the ground, letting the blade pass over him. Sand sprayed into his face, blinding him for a moment, but he forced himself to roll away as Gladia¡¯s hooves stomped dangerously close.


    Blinking furiously to clear his vision, Travis scrambled to his feet, only to find Gladia already upon him. The minotaur slammed the butt of his axe into Travis¡¯s gut, knocking the wind out of him and sending him flying backward. He hit the ground hard, skidding across the sand.


    Travis coughed violently, his vision swimming as he tried to push himself up. Gladia didn¡¯t give him the chance. The minotaur charged again, lifting his axe high for a devastating overhead strike.


    With no time to rise, Travis rolled to the side, the axe embedding itself in the ground where he¡¯d been lying. He forced himself to his knees and slashed at Gladia¡¯s legs, hoping to cripple the beast.


    The minotaur anticipated the move, stepping back just enough for the blade to miss. Gladia retaliated with a savage kick that caught Travis in the chest, sending him sprawling. His sword flew from his hand, clattering uselessly a few feet away.


    The crowd erupted into cheers, their rattling bones a macabre symphony of delight.


    Travis lay on the ground, gasping for air, his chest burning from the impact. Gladia loomed over him, the minotaur¡¯s smirk returning. "Is this truly the best you can do, human?"


    He raised his axe again, ready to deliver the killing blow. Desperation surged through Travis as he rolled toward his sword, his fingers closing around the hilt just as the axe came crashing down. He barely managed to block the strike, the force driving him deeper into the sand.


    His arms trembled under the pressure, his muscles screaming in protest. Gladia leaned in, his golden eyes glowing brighter as he pressed the attack. "You¡¯re nothing but a weakling!" the minotaur sneered.


    Travis gritted his teeth, struggling to push back. ''I can¡¯t keep this up much longer,'' he thought, his vision blurring from the strain.


    With a sudden burst of effort, he twisted his body and shoved the axe aside, using the momentum to roll away. He sprang to his feet, barely steady, and held his sword in front of him, the blade shaking slightly in his grip.


    Gladia chuckled, the sound deep and mocking. "You¡¯ve got heart, I¡¯ll give you that," he said, wiping the blood from his earlier wound. "But heart alone won¡¯t save you."


    Travis didn¡¯t respond. He couldn¡¯t afford to. Every ounce of his focus was on the towering beast before him, searching for an opening, a weakness¡ªanything that could turn the tide of the battle.


    Gladia charged again, his hooves pounding against the ground like thunder. Travis braced himself, his mind racing as he prepared for the next clash.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 8

    Gladia lunged again, his massive axe cleaving through the air with a thunderous whoosh. Travis dodged to the side, sweat dripping into his eyes as he narrowly avoided the deadly strike. His body ached, his breaths came ragged, but his mind began to focus. Every swing, every step, every snarl from the minotaur painted a clearer picture of how Gladia fought.


    Travis raised his sword, steadying his stance. His heart pounded, but his movements felt sharper now. "Alright," he muttered under his breath. "Let¡¯s even this out."


    Gladia sneered, rushing forward with another devastating swing. This time, Travis met the blow head-on.


    *Clang!*


    The impact of axe against sword sent sparks flying, illuminating their fierce expressions. Travis twisted his wrist, deflecting the heavy axe to the side and stepping into Gladia¡¯s guard. He slashed upward, his blade carving a shallow cut along the beast¡¯s arm.


    Gladia roared in pain, rearing back. "You¡¯re learning," he admitted grudgingly, his voice tinged with a mix of irritation and respect.


    "I¡¯ve fought worse," Travis shot back, though his smirk was tired.


    The two clashed again, their weapons colliding with rhythmic clang-clang-clangs that echoed across the arena. Travis ducked low to avoid a horizontal slash, spinning to deliver a quick counter-strike aimed at Gladia¡¯s legs. The minotaur blocked it with the haft of his axe, retaliating with a swift kick.


    Thud! The kick connected with Travis¡¯s side, knocking him back several paces. He winced but didn¡¯t fall, using the momentum to reposition himself.


    Gladia wasted no time, charging again. This time, Travis stood his ground, bracing for the impact. When the axe came down in a ferocious overhead strike, Travis sidestepped at the last possible second, slamming his shoulder into Gladia¡¯s side. The unexpected move staggered the minotaur, leaving him momentarily off-balance.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Capitalizing on the opening, Travis spun and delivered a powerful horizontal slash. The blade bit deep into Gladia¡¯s side, eliciting a guttural roar. Blood sprayed onto the sand, dark and steaming, but the beast refused to falter.


    "You¡¯re strong," Gladia admitted, his tone begrudging. "But strength alone won¡¯t be enough to kill me!"


    He swung his axe in a wide arc, forcing Travis to leap back. The blade carved through the ground with a deafening crunch, sending sand flying in every direction. Before Travis could recover, Gladia closed the distance with a surprising burst of speed, his golden eyes blazing.


    The minotaur spun, his axe a blur. Travis barely ducked in time, the blade slicing cleanly through the air above him with a sharp whip. Without hesitation, Travis lunged forward, aiming for Gladia¡¯s torso.


    The minotaur shifted his axe, blocking the strike with a resounding clang. Travis felt the jarring impact in his arms but pressed on, twisting his blade to force Gladia¡¯s weapon away. He followed up with a series of rapid strikes, his sword a silver blur as it slashed at Gladia from every angle.


    Clang! Thud! Slice! Gladia blocked some, parried others, but a few found their mark. Shallow cuts began to dot the beast¡¯s muscular frame, each one drawing a deeper growl of frustration.


    "Enough!" Gladia bellowed, stomping the ground with enough force to send a shockwave rippling outward. Travis stumbled but recovered quickly, his eyes narrowing.


    The crowd of skeletons cheered wildly, their rattling bones filling the arena as the combatants squared off once more. Gladia¡¯s breaths came heavy now, his golden eyes still fierce but slightly dulled. Meanwhile, Travis¡¯s exhaustion had given way to a sharp, almost feral determination.


    "You¡¯re slowing down," Travis said, circling Gladia cautiously.


    "And you¡¯re getting cocky," the minotaur shot back.


    Gladia charged, swinging his axe in a brutal overhead strike. Travis sidestepped, but instead of retreating, he stepped inside Gladia¡¯s reach, bringing his sword down in a heavy slash aimed at the minotaur¡¯s chest.


    Gladia blocked with the haft of his axe, twisting it to trap Travis¡¯s blade. The two strained against each other, their weapons locked in a deadly contest of strength.


    "You think you can outlast me, human?" Gladia growled, his voice a low rumble.


    Travis grinned through gritted teeth. "No, but I can outsmart you."


    With a sudden shift, Travis released the pressure, letting Gladia¡¯s weight throw him off balance. He ducked low and spun, sweeping his leg in a quick arc that knocked the minotaur¡¯s hooves out from under him.


    Thud! Gladia hit the ground hard, his axe skidding away.


    The crowd erupted in a mix of cheers and boos as Travis scrambled to his feet, his sword raised. Gladia growled, pushing himself up with surprising speed, but the beast was clearly winded now.


    "You¡¯re good," Gladia admitted, wiping blood from his mouth. "Better than I expected."


    "Thanks," Travis replied, his tone dry. "You¡¯re not so bad yourself."


    The two faced each other again, the air between them charged with tension. Gladia grabbed his axe, his grip tightening as he readied for another round.


    And so the fight continued, both combatants moving with renewed intensity, their weapons clashing in a symphony of metal and grit. Travis¡¯s strikes grew sharper, his movements more fluid, as he adapted to Gladia¡¯s patterns. Blow for blow, they fought, the sands of the arena stained with sweat and blood.


    For the first time, they stood as equals.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Part 9

    The crowd of skeletons rattled and cheered, their fervor echoing in the blood-soaked arena as Travis faced Gladia, his sword glowing faintly with his remaining mana. Every muscle in his body screamed for rest, but his focus was unyielding. Across from him, the towering minotaur, equally scarred and battered, gripped the haft of his colossal axe, its blade now floating ominously in two spinning segments above him.


    Gladia chuckled darkly, rolling his shoulders as steam hissed from his nostrils. "You¡¯ve pushed me farther than I expected, human," he said, his voice rumbling like distant thunder. "But this¡­ this is where you die!"


    The detached blades spun faster, their sharp edges glinting as they circled around the minotaur like predators awaiting a command. Travis steadied himself, gripping his sword tightly.


    "Bring it," he muttered under his breath, his eyes locked on Gladia.


    With a guttural roar, Gladia thrust his hand forward, and the two spinning blades hurtled toward Travis like twin whirlwinds. Their speed was unreal, the air around them hissing as they sliced through it.


    Travis threw himself into a roll, narrowly avoiding one blade as it buried itself into the ground with a deafening sound, spraying sand and debris into the air. The second blade curved sharply, tracking his movement. He swung his sword with all his might, deflecting the spinning metal.


    CLANG


    The force of the collision sent a painful shockwave up his arm, but he didn¡¯t falter.


    Gladia was already moving, closing the gap between them with a burst of speed that belied his massive frame. The haft of his axe whipped through the air, aiming for Travis¡¯s side.


    Travis barely had time to react. He twisted his body, the wooden haft grazing his ribs with a bone-jarring CRACK. The impact sent him skidding across the sand, his boots digging trenches in the ground.


    ''Damn, that hurts,'' Travis thought, clutching his side. He couldn¡¯t afford to falter now.


    The detached blades returned to Gladia, hovering beside him as he advanced. With a sweep of his arm, the minotaur directed one blade to fly low and the other high, creating a deadly pincer attack.


    Travis dropped to one knee, leaning back as the lower blade zipped over him, missing his chest by inches. The second blade came down from above, and he twisted his body, raising his sword to deflect it.


    Clang!


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Sparks erupted as the weapons collided, and Travis used the momentum to spin into a rising slash aimed at Gladia¡¯s midsection.


    The minotaur anticipated the move, stepping back while swinging the haft of his axe. The wooden shaft slammed into Travis¡¯s sword mid-swing, knocking the blade off course. Before Travis could recover, Gladia followed up with a spinning kick.


    THUD!


    The hoof caught Travis square in the chest, lifting him off the ground and sending him crashing into the sand several feet away.


    The skeleton crowd erupted in cheers, their hollow voices chanting Gladia¡¯s name. Travis coughed, struggling to push himself up. His vision blurred for a moment, but he forced himself to focus.


    ''Stay calm. Think. Adapt.''


    Gladia approached slowly, the detached blades spinning lazily around him like vultures circling a carcass. "You¡¯re outmatched," he said, his tone almost pitying. "Even if you¡¯ve got tricks left, you can¡¯t beat me."


    Travis wiped the blood from his mouth and smirked. "I¡¯ve heard that before."


    Gladia roared in frustration, sending one of the blades flying toward him at full speed. This time, Travis sidestepped smoothly, letting the blade embed itself into a nearby pillar.


    He darted forward, closing the distance between himself and Gladia in an instant. His sword came down in a diagonal slash, glowing faintly with mana.


    Gladia reacted with surprising speed, using the haft of his axe to block. The clash sent another wave of sparks flying, and for a moment, the two warriors were locked in a contest of strength.


    "You¡¯re strong," Gladia admitted, pushing back against Travis¡¯s blade. "But you lack the killer¡¯s edge."


    Travis grinned, a glint of defiance in his eyes. "Guess I¡¯ll have to prove you wrong."


    He shifted his weight suddenly, letting Gladia¡¯s strength throw him off balance. The minotaur stumbled forward, and Travis spun behind him, delivering a swift horizontal slash aimed at his back.


    The blade connected, carving a shallow gash across Gladia¡¯s massive frame. The minotaur howled in pain, but before Travis could capitalize, the remaining detached blade zipped toward him.


    Travis ducked just in time, the blade whistling past his head. It circled around, forcing him to roll and leap to avoid its relentless pursuit.


    Gladia turned, his golden eyes burning with fury. He slammed the haft of his axe into the ground, sending a shockwave through the arena that threw Travis off balance.


    "Enough games!" Gladia bellowed, bringing both detached blades back to him. He raised his arms, and the weapons began to spin in unison, creating a whirlwind of metal around him. The minotaur charged, the whirling blades cutting through the air with a deafening sound.


    WHIRRR.


    Travis¡¯s heart raced as he calculated his next move. ''I can¡¯t block that. I have to end this now.''


    Summoning his mana, he poured it into his sword. The blade began to glow brighter, crackling with raw energy. He steadied his breathing, his mind sharpening as he prepared for the final clash.


    Gladia swung the whirlwind of blades toward him, a storm of death that tore through the air. Travis didn¡¯t flinch. He stepped forward, dodging one blade by a hair¡¯s breadth and deflecting the other with a precise parry.


    As Gladia brought the haft of his axe down in a crushing vertical strike, Travis sidestepped and unleashed his mana slash.


    The glowing arc of energy erupted from his blade, a searing wave of red light that tore through the air with a thunderous.


    BOOM.


    Gladia¡¯s eyes widened in shock as the mana slash struck him head-on. The impact sent him flying backward, his detached blades shattering into pieces as the energy consumed them. The minotaur crashed into the arena wall with a deafening CRASH, leaving a massive crater in the stone.


    The skeleton crowd fell silent, their rattling bones ceasing as they watched the aftermath.


    Travis stood in the center of the arena, his sword dimming as the last remnants of mana faded away. His chest rose and fell heavily, his body trembling with exhaustion, but his gaze remained steady.


    Gladia slumped against the wall, bloodied and broken. Yet, even in defeat, the minotaur managed a faint, toothy grin.


    "You¡­ are worthy," he rumbled, his voice weak but filled with respect. "Well fought¡­ warrior."


    With that, Gladia¡¯s massive form went still, his golden eyes dimming as his body dissolved into glowing particles.


    The skeletons erupted into a cacophony of cheers and applause, their hollow voices chanting Travis¡¯s name.


    Travis sheathed his sword, his expression a mix of relief and triumph. "That was insane," he muttered to himself as he turned toward the glowing exit that appeared at the far end of the arena.


    He didn¡¯t look back as he walked away, his steps slow but resolute. The fight was over, but the journey ahead promised even greater challenges.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Dungeon Finale

    Travis walked out of the dungeon, every step heavier than the last. His limbs ached, his breath came in ragged gasps, and his vision blurred from sheer exhaustion. Yet, as he passed through the towering dungeon gates, a faint smile played on his lips. He looked down at the sword in his hand¡ªscratched and battered, but still intact. That alone was enough to lift his spirits.


    His armor, however, was a different story¡ªor rather, it wasn¡¯t a story at all anymore. The chest plate had been completely shattered during the final clash, leaving only fragments behind. His pauldrons were long gone, and the once-sturdy greaves had been torn to useless scraps. All that remained were the tattered clothes beneath, dirt-streaked and soaked with sweat and blood. He looked like a survivor, barely clinging to the idea of protection, but he didn¡¯t care. The fact that he was still breathing trumped everything else.


    As Travis trudged into the town, the eerie silence immediately unsettled him. This wasn¡¯t the usual lively buzz of merchants calling out their wares or townsfolk bustling about. There were no people, no distant laughter, no clinking of tankards from the tavern. Only silence.


    His brow furrowed. Something was wrong.


    Opening his senses, Travis stilled himself, and the faint sound of distant chaos reached his ears. A rumble, low and rhythmic, like thunder. He tilted his head, focusing harder. The sound grew louder¡ªa cacophony of roars, screams, and the unmistakable clash of steel.


    "What the hell is going on?" he muttered under his breath, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten.


    Curiosity mixed with dread, and Travis shrugged off his weariness, heading toward the source of the commotion. Each step brought him closer to the town¡¯s gates, and the faint rumble became a deafening roar. The sound of battle filled the air¡ªterrifying and chaotic. Screams of pain and defiance intertwined with the guttural growls of monstrous voices.


    Travis rounded a corner, and his heart sank.


    From the gates, he saw it¡ªa battlefield. Massive ogres stormed the area just beyond the town, their hulking forms towering over the adventurers who desperately fought to hold the line. The beasts wielded crude but devastating weapons: spiked clubs, jagged axes, and even massive boulders they hurled with bone-shaking force.


    The adventurers were struggling. A mage was overwhelmed as a hulking ogre broke through her fiery defenses, crushing her underfoot. A spearman lunged at one of the beasts, his weapon piercing its thigh, only for a second ogre to swing a mace into his side, sending him flying like a broken doll.


    "How did this happen" Travis whispered, his eyes wide with shock.


    He watched helplessly as another adventurer¡ªa young man clutching a short sword¡ªcharged at an ogre, only to be grabbed mid-strike. The beast lifted him effortlessly, squeezing the life from him before tossing his limp body aside like trash.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Travis gripped his sword tighter, his knuckles whitening. His exhaustion seemed to vanish as adrenaline surged through his veins.


    "How did it get this bad?" he muttered, stepping forward.


    Logan, Caleb, and Jacob were fighting desperately in the fray. Logan¡¯s greatsword flashed as he swung at an ogre¡¯s leg, forcing it to stumble, while Caleb darted around another, slashing at its knees. Jacob¡¯s arrows flew in quick succession, though they barely seemed to slow the monstrous tide.


    The silver-haired mage stood nearby, frost swirling around her as she sent ice shards into the ogres¡¯ ranks. Her expression was fierce, but Travis could see the weariness in her movements.


    And still, the ogres pressed on, their sheer numbers threatening to crush the adventurers entirely.


    Travis stepped through the gates, his sword hanging loosely in his grip. The sight before him was pure chaos¡ªadventurers falling left and right, their screams drowned by the deafening roars of the ogres. The massive creatures towered over the battlefield, their crude weapons smashing through shields, bodies, and even the earth itself.


    He didn¡¯t hesitate. His body moved before his mind caught up, exhaustion forgotten as a sharp clarity took hold.


    In a blur, Travis dashed forward, faster than any human had a right to move. The first ogre didn¡¯t even see him coming. One moment it was raising its club to crush an adventurer, the next its arm fell to the ground, severed at the shoulder. The ogre let out a half-formed roar before Travis¡¯s blade slashed through its throat, silencing it permanently.


    The next ogre turned toward the sound, but all it saw was a flash of steel. Travis¡¯s sword tore through its side in a single, precise motion, cutting through thick muscle and bone like paper. The beast staggered, clutching at the gaping wound, but before it could fall, Travis was already gone, a streak of motion tearing through the battlefield.


    An ogre swung its spiked mace downward, aiming to flatten him. Travis sidestepped effortlessly, the weapon slamming into the ground with a thunderous crash. Using the ogre¡¯s lowered position, he leaped onto its arm and drove his sword through its skull, the blade exiting cleanly out the back.


    By the time the ogre¡¯s body collapsed, he was already moving to the next target.


    The ogres tried to regroup, but they couldn¡¯t react fast enough. One raised its axe, attempting to shield itself, but Travis spun low, his sword slicing through its legs. The beast toppled with a deafening thud, and Travis finished it with a clean strike to the neck, severing its head in a spray of blackened blood.


    Another ogre lunged at him, swinging its massive fists wildly. Travis ducked under the first swing, sidestepped the second, and retaliated with a flurry of slashes. His blade struck with surgical precision, carving through joints and vital points. The ogre¡¯s body fell apart before it even realized it was dead.


    The battlefield was a blur of motion and chaos, but to Travis, everything was clear. He danced between the massive creatures, his movements impossibly fast, his strikes impossibly sharp. Every swing of his sword was deadly, every step perfectly placed.


    The remaining ogres began to hesitate, their once-mighty roars fading into uncertainty. They turned to face him, but Travis was already in their midst. He moved like a storm, his blade flashing like lightning as he cut down one ogre after another.


    "Is that fear I see?" Travis muttered, his voice low and cold.


    The final group of ogres, sensing their end, raised their weapons, ready to charge. But Travis didn¡¯t give them the chance.


    He planted his feet firmly, his sword glowing faintly with a silvery light. The air around him grew sharp, heavy with tension as he whispered the name of his ability.


    "Cut."


    A deafening silence followed, as though the entire battlefield had taken a collective breath. Then, in an instant, the light from his sword exploded outward in a single, impossibly sharp arc.


    The wave of energy surged through the ogres, slicing through their bodies as though they were made of air. The beasts froze in place, their massive forms quivering as thin, clean lines appeared across their torsos.


    And then they fell. One by one, the ogres collapsed, their bodies cleaved in two, their weapons falling uselessly to the ground.


    Travis lowered his sword, the glow fading as the last of the ogres hit the dirt. The battlefield was silent now, save for the faint groans of the injured and the distant crackling of flames. He took a deep breath, his body finally remembering the exhaustion he had pushed aside.


    "That should do it," he murmured, glancing at the horizon. There were no more enemies left to face.


    TO BE CONTINUED

 Announcement

    I''ll be on hiatus as I work on creating the next arc, which will be the final one for this part of the novel.


    I''m considering splitting the arc into two, but I''m still figuring out the details. I really want this arc to shape Travis into who I envision him becoming in the next part, where his enemies will be stronger and have more depth than any he''s faced so far. How I''ll achieve that is the big question, but I''m sure I''ll figure it out once I find some inspiration.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    In the meantime, you can check out my other novel, which I feel is probably more realistic in terms of character growth compared to this one.


    It''s called Return of the Lost Sword. Hope you enjoy it!


    I appreciate your patience! The next chapter will be uploaded on Monday, February 10th.


    If you''d like to get it earlier, feel free to contact me privately or join my Discord server: https://discord.gg/xmHJcK5z</a>


    Peace!