《Echoed Lands》 Chapter 1: Initiation The hum of a quiet morning filled Colm¡¯s home office, providing an unremarkable backdrop for an unexciting day. He sat hunched over his desk, his eyes glued to the screen. The sound of his typing punctuated the stillness, with line after line of code appearing on the monitor, filling the silence of his small apartment. This had become his life: working from home as a programmer, his days defined by the glow of his monitor and the gentle hum of the apartment''s air conditioning. Calls or messages rarely disturbed him, just another name in a sea of remote workers, his face seen only occasionally during video meetings. The physical disconnect was easy to overlook, but today, it felt almost oppressive, weighing on him as he sipped his lukewarm coffee. A faint sigh escaped him as he leaned back, rolling his neck to ease the stiffness in his shoulders. He¡¯d been working at this job for years, yet every day seemed to blur into the next. He was good at it¡ªproblem-solving came naturally to him¡ªbut sometimes; he wondered if anyone would even notice if he disappeared. The thought lingered as he absentmindedly scrolled through a series of work messages, seeing the automated check-ins and meeting reminders¡ªno real connection, just static. He closed his messages and returned to his code, the familiar sight of his work comforting him. And then, just as he settled back into his rhythm, his screen flickered. It was subtle, barely noticeable¡ªa thin line of static dancing across the monitor for a fraction of a second. Colm blinked, momentarily thrown off. He waited, but the screen returned to normal, and his work remained intact. He pushed it to the back of his mind with a faint shrug, attributing it to a minor glitch. But a part of him couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that something was wrong. As he continued typing, the screen flickered again, this time longer, stretching into strange, incomprehensible shapes before snapping back. Colm frowned, his fingers hovering over the keyboard. There it was again¡ªa faint flicker, a series of symbols flashing across the display. The symbols were almost deliberate, as if they were trying to communicate. A chill ran down his spine, and he quickly scanned the monitor for any signs of something unusual. He checked his task manager, expecting to see maybe a rogue process eating up resources, but everything seemed normal. He ran a scan, his fingers tapping impatiently on the desk as he waited for it to finish. Each second felt like an eternity, his unease growing with every glitch. The scan completed with no issues found. He sighed, rubbing his temples, frustration mixing with an inexplicable sense of dread. His screen continued to flicker sporadically, the symbols flashing briefly, mocking him with their cryptic message. Maybe it was a virus, he reasoned. But he knew his way around the internet to avoid most malware; this felt different. He watched as the symbols merged, forming jagged, almost hieroglyphic shapes, and his fingers instinctively tensed, feeling the pulse of something he couldn¡¯t explain. Shaking his head, he decided to do a complete restart. The screen went dark as he rebooted, and he exhaled, feeling a faint sense of relief. But as he powered the machine back up, his heart sank. The usual boot logo appeared, then vanished, replaced by the same symbols¡ªflickering, erratic, spiraling across the screen. "UNSTABLE CONNECTION DETECTED," it read. The words lingered on the screen, mocking him. Colm¡¯s mind raced. That wasn¡¯t a system message he¡¯d ever seen. A surge of frustration rose within him. He tried to brush it off, reasoning that it was just a weird issue he could solve with enough time. But the flickering grew worse, lines and shapes twisting across the screen in maddening patterns. The symbols seemed sharper, more precise, and almost purposeful in their design. It was as if the computer was trying to communicate something beyond his understanding. Feeling a mix of frustration and dread, he decided to unplug it. Enough was enough; maybe a hard reset would solve it once and for all. His fingers gripped the power cable firmly, yanking it from the socket with a sharp, satisfying click. The room fell into silence, the hum of the computer gone, leaving only his shallow breaths echoing in the quiet. He stood there, waiting, the tension in his chest slowly dissipating. For a brief moment, he allowed himself to believe it was over. He reached for his coffee cup, lifting it to his lips, savoring the bitter warmth as he tried to shake off the lingering unease. And then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw the screen blink back to life. Colm¡¯s heart froze, his coffee cup slipping from his hand and shattering on the floor. His computer was on. He hadn¡¯t touched or reconnected the power, yet there it was, symbols spiraling across the screen this time sharper, more aggressive, as if enraged by his attempts to silence it. The lights in the room dimmed, the air vibrating with a low, insistent hum that seemed to pulse in time with the flickering on the screen. His breathing grew shallow as he took a shaky step back, his mind racing through possibilities, each one more implausible than the last. Was it possible he was hallucinating? Had he been sitting at his desk too long? But then, before he could react further, the screen filled with an intense, blinding white. A piercing hum vibrated through the air, buzzing in his ears, sending electric shocks across his skin. The lights flickered, dimming like something was drawing power from the apartment. The screen erupted with a sharp flash, throwing him back as if hit by a physical force. An intense wave of energy surged through him, creating a jolt that left him feeling numb and disoriented. He stumbled backward, his vision blurring as his heart raced in his ears. Colors danced before his eyes, their unnatural brilliance overwhelming his senses. The room tilted, with the walls twisting and bending in impossible ways. Then, with a final blinding flash, darkness claimed him.
Colm¡¯s consciousness drifted in and out, the taste of blood sharp on his tongue, and his senses dulled as though submerged underwater. He couldn¡¯t tell how long he lay there¡ªseconds, minutes, maybe hours¡ªfloating in a strange darkness, his body heavy and unresponsive. Faint sounds echoed around him, indistinct whispers just out of reach. For a moment, he wondered if he¡¯d died, if the strange surge from his computer had somehow been the end. But then, with a jolt, his senses sharpened, and he noticed a bitter, earthy scent filling his nostrils, an odor that made his stomach turn. Blinking, he tried to focus, his vision swimming as he stared into a canopy of twisted branches that loomed above him, black and skeletal against a dull, gray sky. He wasn¡¯t in his apartment anymore. Panic flared, his heart thundering as he forced himself up, every muscle protesting with a dull ache. He was on the ground, lying on damp, decayed leaves, his clothes cold and clinging to his skin from the moisture seeping up from the earth. His hands brushed against something wet and slimy, and he recoiled, staring down at his surroundings. The surrounding forest was shrouded in a thick, oppressive mist, a grayish fog that clung to the trees and obscured his view beyond a few feet. The trees were twisted, their bark blackened as if burned, branches stretching out like skeletal arms. Shadows seemed to dance at the edge of his vision, faint movements that vanished when he tried to focus on them.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Colm took a shuddering breath, his mind racing to piece together what had happened. The last thing he remembered was the computer screen¡ªthose strange symbols, the blinding light, the electric shock, and nothing. Now Colm was here, in this dark, unnatural forest that felt like something out of a nightmare. He couldn¡¯t feel any immediate injuries, but his head throbbed, and his skin tingled with the lingering sensation of that electric pulse. The silence around him was oppressive, broken only by the soft rustle of dead leaves and the faint, unsettling creak of trees shifting in the mist. A chill ran down his spine as he struggled to his feet, a feeling of being watched creeping over him. Every instinct screamed that he needed to move, to escape whatever lay hidden in the shadows. Then he heard a dragging, shuffling sound coming from somewhere deep in the mist. It was faint at first, but the sound grew louder, accompanied by a low, guttural groan that sent a wave of cold dread through him. Colm¡¯s heart pounded as he strained to see through the fog, his mind racing with panic. The shadows in the mist shifted, coalescing into forms¡ªfigures moving slowly, jerking, but he couldn¡¯t make out any details. Were they people? Animals? Some warped figment of his imagination? A faint chime echoed in his mind, interrupting his racing thoughts. A translucent window popped up in front of him. [ Skill Acquired ] Analyze (Level 1) - Allows the user to identify creatures and objects. He blinked, barely processing the words before the shadowed figures grew closer, their forms taking shape. Their gait was unnatural, jerky, and uncoordinated, as though each step required effort. They moved without a purpose he could recognize, but something about them was off. His pulse quickened, fear gripping his chest. Colm focused on the Analyze skill with a strange instinct while watching the creature, hoping it might give him some answers. Another window popped up. Undead Walker (Level 4) Colm¡¯s breath caught in his throat as he stared at the report. Undead. It wasn¡¯t just his imagination or some twisted figment of fear. These figures were corpses brought back to life, drawn to him because of the sounds he¡¯d made. His presence, the breaking twigs, and his footsteps had caught their attention like a signal in the darkness. An icy wave of terror washed over him, and his legs moved before his mind had fully caught up. He bolted, the sounds of his footsteps blending with the low groans and shuffling of the many undead behind him. Images of countless zombie movies flashed through his mind¡ªhe¡¯d seen enough to know that sticking around to "test" his luck was the last thing he wanted to do. The thought of being bitten or scratched, and the subsequent infection, or worse, sent a shiver down his spine. His feet pounded against the damp earth as he sprinted through the forest, weaving between twisted trees, the mist swirling around him. His breath came in ragged gasps, and his heart hammered in his chest, every instinct focused on one thing: escape. The undead grew louder, their shuffling, dragging steps punctuated by low, inhuman groans that relentlessly followed him. Questions raced through his mind, but he had no time to think or process the impossibility of his situation. He ran, propelled by pure adrenaline, fear pushing him forward with every step. He stumbled over an exposed root, his foot catching, and he barely regained his balance before crashing into a tree. The bark scraped against his arm, a sharp pain that only reminded him of how real this was. This wasn¡¯t a dream; it wasn¡¯t some video game he could reset. If he stopped, if he made a mistake, he would die here¡ªor worse, maybe even become an undead. The dragging noises grew closer, and he could feel the weight of their gaze, the unfeeling, hollow eyes tracking his every movement. He forced himself to keep going, his legs burning with effort, his lungs aching with each breath. The forest seemed endless, the trees stretching out in every direction, each identical in its twisted, skeletal form. A flash of movement caught his eye, and he glanced over, his stomach twisting with horror as he saw one of the undead, its skin pale and rotted, its mouth hanging open in a silent, unending scream. Its eyes were empty, clouded with a lifeless gray, yet it moved with a terrible, unnatural purpose, its bony fingers reaching out toward him. Colm turned, his pulse spiking as he pushed himself to go faster. His mind raced, trying to think of anything that might help, but he had no weapons, no plan¡ªjust a desperate need to survive. He could feel his energy waning, the adrenaline fading, leaving him vulnerable and exhausted. He stumbled again, his hand reaching out to steady himself against a tree, his breath coming in short, shallow gasps. The footsteps and groans filled his ears, and he knew he couldn¡¯t keep this up. He needed to find a place to hide, catch his breath, and think. Up ahead, he spotted a dense thicket of trees, their branches twisting together like a natural barrier. It wasn¡¯t much, but it offered a chance to break the line of sight. He crept toward it as quietly as he could, ducking low to avoid brushing against branches. The undergrowth clawed at his face and arms as he pushed through, but he gritted his teeth and kept going, ignoring the discomfort. Once inside, he crouched among the tangled branches, his heart pounding as he held his breath, straining to stay hidden and silent. Every sound felt like a risk, a potential signal to the creatures lurking nearby. His body pressed against the rough bark of a tree, his heart pounding as he listened to the sounds of the undead moving through the mist. The shuffling grew fainter, their groans fading into the distance, and he allowed himself a moment of relief. He was safe¡ªat least, for now. Colm¡¯s hands shook as he tried to steady his breathing, the reality of his situation crashing down on him. He wasn¡¯t just lost; he was somewhere else entirely, a place that defied all logic. The forest was like nothing he¡¯d ever seen, dark and twisted, filled with creatures that shouldn¡¯t exist. A faint, metallic chime echoed in his mind, pulling him from his thoughts. The sound was soft and persistent. [ System initialization finished¡­ ] The words echoed in his mind, and he felt a subtle pressure, like something vast and unseen, measuring him, recording him. He couldn¡¯t quite place why, but the words filled him with a sense of permanence, as though whatever was happening to him now was irreversible. The words continued, methodical and indifferent. [ You have been successfully integrated. Parameters have been set. User designation: Colm Arden. ] He blinked, his mind struggling to process the words. Integrated? Transported? None of it made sense. He was only beginning to grasp the strange reality of his situation, but something deep inside told him he¡¯d better listen carefully. His eyes widened as the system continued. [ Access to status and system screens granted. Initial attributes set. ] A translucent screen appeared before him, hovering in the air, displaying his status information. Colm¡¯s breath caught as he saw his name and a set of stats that felt surreal, like something pulled from a game, yet disturbingly accurate. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 1 Health: 95 / 100 Mana: 75 / 75 Strength: 10 Dexterity: 12 Intelligence: 15 Constitution:10 Class: None Active Class Abilities: - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 1) Achievements: - Through the Rift Chapter 2: Awakening He stared at the screen, feeling a surreal mixture of wonder and fear. Each stat and label carried a tangible and permanent weight. He touched his arm, half-expecting to feel stronger or somehow different, but he was still just himself. Yet the numbers and categories before him hinted at something more profound, some potential he didn¡¯t yet understand. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 1 Health: 95 / 100 Mana: 75 / 75 Strength: 10 Dexterity: 12 Intelligence: 15 Constitution:10 Class: None Active Class Abilities: - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 1) Achievements: - Through the Rift "What¡­ is this?" he whispered, his voice barely audible. As if responding to his confusion, another notification appeared, indifferent to his shock. [ Attributes are your foundation within the System, affecting health, agility, strength, and other capabilities. Abilities will be accessible as you progress. Experience (XP) is gained by slaying creatures. ] Colm¡¯s eyes scanned the numbers on the screen, and his attention caught on his health: 95 / 100. He hadn¡¯t noticed before, but he could feel the faint sting of scratches on his arms and face, likely from pushing his way through the branches in his desperate flight from the undead. The sight of his health was a reminder that this wasn¡¯t a game¡ªeach cut and bruise seemed to hold weight here, affecting him in ways he couldn¡¯t ignore. Colm¡¯s gaze drifted to the "Achievements" section. Through the Rift stood out, marked as his sole achievement, an eerie reminder of how he¡¯d arrived here. He focused on it, and a new pop-up appeared, detailed and vivid, adding an extra layer of gravity to his circumstances. [ Achievement Earned ] Through the Rift - You have crossed a Rift into the Echoed Lands, a fractured world where rules bend and everything is uncertain. What wasn¡¯t meant to happen did. Survive, if you can. New Ability Unlocked: Universal Language - Allows you to read, write, and speak in any modern language. A chill ran down his spine as he read the achievement description. "What wasn¡¯t meant to happen did. Survive, if you can." It sounded less like a reward and more like a challenge¡ªor a warning. And the term "Echoed Lands" lingered in his mind, carrying a sense of foreboding. This was no ordinary place he¡¯d stumbled into. The Universal Language perk sounded incredible. It would have been amazing to use back home. Still, it could be even more valuable in this new world¡ªletting him communicate with anyone he encounters, especially since no one probably speaks English. Hope flickered. Others might be here. He took a deep breath, letting that feeling settle within him. His gaze moved back to the rest of the status screen. Each category¡ªHuman, Mana, Class¡ªfelt like a piece of an unknown puzzle, defining him in the ways of a video game. Specifying his race as Human made him wonder if there were others here who weren''t human. The system treated his existence with a precision and formality that was alien to him, as though he was one among many. He focused on Mana next, its purpose still hazy yet intriguing. He¡¯d seen the word countless times in games¡ªusually the fuel for magic or special abilities. But seeing it quantified on his status screen was surreal. It felt powerful, a resource he could tap into, manage, and potentially exhaust, just like in those games. The thought that he might wield actual magic made his heart race, even if he had no idea how to unlock that potential. In time, maybe this energy would become his most significant tool. "What¡­ is mana?" he murmured, half to himself, hoping the system might answer. Another notification returned immediately, calm and factual. [ Mana is the essential energy used to activate abilities and cast spells. As a human, your base mana pool is smaller than certain other races, but your natural versatility and adaptability compensate for this. Mana regenerates over time. ] The words struck him with their matter-of-factness. The system had labeled him as "Human" and spoke like other races with distinct advantages existed here. Versatility and adaptability, it had said, making him feel like a statistic within a more extensive, unknown design. He rubbed his eyes and grappled with the implications, his thoughts churning as he tried to process the enormity of everything. He didn¡¯t know enough; every revelation felt like just scratching the surface. The realization struck him: he was starting from scratch here. His life and existence now revolved around these numbers and categories. Still, he saw it as an opportunity to rebuild and grow in ways he¡¯d never imagined. It was an odd feeling, this idea of a "fresh start." His life back home had been, in so many ways, routine and uninspired. He¡¯d gone through the motions, day after day, working alone, handling code and deadlines. The friends he¡¯d once had¡ªthe ones he¡¯d been close to in college and even after¡ªhad slowly drifted away, life pulling each of them down different paths. It was inevitable, he knew, but the absence still lingered like a dull ache. He couldn¡¯t remember the last time he felt connected to anyone. Most of his relationships had faded, slipping away as they all found new priorities, lives, and relationships. He had barely noticed it happening, one person fading out here, another there until he realized one day that he was mostly alone. Sure, he had acquaintances, a handful of people he¡¯d exchanged texts with now and then, but it had been years since he¡¯d felt genuinely close to anyone. A strange blend of bitterness and resignation filled him. He¡¯d grown used to his isolation, accepting it as a natural byproduct of life¡¯s unpredictability. He¡¯d buried himself in his work, hiding behind the screen, feeling safe in the knowledge that his loneliness wouldn¡¯t catch up to him as long as he was productive. But now, here he was in a new world, his connections to that life severed as entirely as if it had been a dream. The screen in front of him, with its numbers and cold labels, made him wonder. Was this a fresh beginning, or just another framework trying to control him? The system had cataloged and reduced him to stats and categories, giving him structure but stripping away his identity. It was unsettling, reminding him he was just another variable in this place, no more unique than his stats. Yet there was also strange freedom in it¡ªa chance to break from the monotonous life he¡¯d left behind. Here, without routine, without drifting friendships or fading connections, he had a blank slate¡ªthe potential to build himself up into something entirely different. The system¡¯s messages broke his thoughts, as steady as ever. [ Select your class to unlock initial abilities. ] The mention of a class stirred something within him. The language, the setup¡ªall of it felt like he was in a game, some kind of fantasy RPG. But the cold, biting wind, the mist swirling around him, and the ominous shadows in the distance reminded him that this was no game.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Colm¡¯s gaze lingered on the screen, his pulse still racing, the numbers and terms resonating with a strange allure. He could feel the weight of each word, each stat¡ªit was as if the system had redefined him, reshaped him into something more. Or at least something with the potential for more. He took a deep breath, steadying himself, feeling a spark of determination rise. Things would be different here. He wouldn¡¯t just survive this place but find a way to live. No more empty routines, no more drifting aimlessly through the motions. This world held dangers he¡¯d barely glimpsed but also a chance to redefine himself in ways he¡¯d never imagined. The screen remained in place, unwavering, patiently awaiting his next move.
The system screen hovered before him, unwavering and patient. Just as he was processing the enormity of his situation, the message appeared again, commanding his full attention. [ Select your class to unlock initial abilities. ] Before Colm could fully register the notification, another one crowded his vision. [ Because of unique and unforeseen circumstances of your arrival, standard protocols have been bypassed. In response, you have been granted limited information and access to specialized class options designed to increase your chances of survival and success within the Echoed Lands. The classes presented will be a onetime opportunity; you will not see these options again. ] Colm exhaled slowly, feeling a mixture of anxiety and resolve rise within him. This choice, he realized, would define his survival here and determine the skills he¡¯d need to withstand the dangers of this strange world. His heart raced as he glanced down the list of class names on the screen, each accompanied by a short description. He read through them, each line adding weight to the decision he was about to make. [ Stormcaller - Master the fury of lightning and thunder. Strike enemies from afar with electric force and control storms. Specialization - Offensive, long-range lightning and elemental abilities with a focus on dealing high burst damage from a distance. Primary Stat - Intelligence Level Up Bonus - +5 Attribute points per level. ] [ Voidstrider - Manipulate the fabric of space to evade danger and gain control over your environment. Specialization - Stealth, teleportation, and spatial control, allowing quick escapes, ambushes, and tactical repositioning for solo adventuring. Primary Stat - Intelligence Level Up Bonus - +5 Attribute points per level. ] [ Enduring Sentinel - Draw upon the essence of life to endure any threat. Regenerate wounds and withstand prolonged battles. Specialization - High resilience and self-regeneration, with abilities centered on survival, tanking, and health restoration. Primary Stat - Constitution Level Up Bonus - +5 Attribute points per level. ] [ Arcane Archer - Infuse arrows with magical energy, transforming them into powerful projectiles with elemental effects. Specialization - Ranged attacks with magical enhancements, focusing on elemental and precision damage for those who prefer distance and versatility. Primary Stat - Dexterity Level Up Bonus - +5 Attribute points per level. ] [ Spirit Warden - Harness spiritual energies to summon ethereal allies, drain life, and command the spectral realm. Specialization - Summoning, life-drain, and support abilities, allowing control over summoned allies to assist in battle. Primary Stat - Intelligence Level Up Bonus - +5 Attribute points per level. ] Colm took a steadying breath, his mind racing as he weighed the possibilities as he went through them all again. Stormcaller tempted him with its sheer power, the ability to wield lightning and thunder from a distance, to strike with raw force. He could picture the crackling energy, the devastation he might unleash, the rush of feeling in control of something so fierce. Yet, he hesitated. Stormcaller required precision focus. It seemed relentless, demanding his full focus with little room for error. He imagined the toll it might take on his stamina, each strike demanding everything he had. Powerful, yes, but too consuming. He turned his thoughts to Voidstrider, the class that offered an escape from confrontation. The ability to manipulate space, to slip in and out of danger, felt like the perfect counterbalance to the fear gnawing at him since he¡¯d arrived. He imagined himself fading from sight, moving silently, striking from the shadows. The idea appealed to him. He could stay distant, tactical. Yet, a part of him wondered if staying hidden, constantly evading, was the path he wanted to take. Would he spend his days running, surviving only by staying unseen? Enduring Sentinel, with its promise of endurance, brought him a strange comfort. He¡¯d felt vulnerable since stepping into this world, painfully aware of how easily the undead could overwhelm him. Standing firm, weathering any attack, and regenerating wounds seemed to answer his fears. He imagined himself as unbreakable, undeterred. But the strength to withstand attacks came at a cost; he¡¯d need to be in the thick of things, close to enemies, trading blows. Colm wasn¡¯t sure if he wanted to confront threats so directly, especially in a world as alien as this. Arcane Archer, on the other hand, offered the precision and control he admired. The idea of wielding magic from afar, transforming arrows into elemental strikes, promised a blend of power and distance. He¡¯d be a sharpshooter, controlling the battlefield from afar yet still powerful enough to make an impact. But it felt too conventional, too limited to his vision of magic infused with physical weaponry. It didn¡¯t quite resonate with the direction he felt drawn to, especially since he didn¡¯t have a bow. Finally, his gaze returned to Spirit Warden. There was something hauntingly beautiful about it, the idea of calling upon spirits, of summoning allies even in isolation. It felt unique, neither solely offensive nor defensive, but somewhere in between. A balance. He wouldn¡¯t face his challenges alone; he¡¯d have spectral companions, allies who would shield and support him in combat. He could sense the quiet power of life-drain abilities, a way to sustain himself in prolonged battles, a subtle and steady strength that didn¡¯t fade quickly. Spirit Warden offered control, resilience, and, most importantly, companionship¡ªeven if those companions were only spirits. The choice felt right. He took a deep breath, feeling a calm determination settle over him. It was a different path, allowing him to face his enemies without facing them alone. There was something poetic, almost reassuring, about stepping into a role that commanded the spirits around him, especially in a place where death lurked at every turn. "Spirit Warden," he whispered, his voice steady. A warm, pulsing energy enveloped him the moment he chose, and he felt the system acknowledge his decision. His body tingled as the energy settled within him, bringing a strange sense of comfort and power. His vision sharpened, and he became aware of a faint, ghostly presence around him as though the spirits had accepted his choice. A message materialized in front of him. [ Class Selected: Spirit Warden Welcome to the spectral realm, where allies are boundless, and your will shapes the spirit forces at your command. Class Abilities Unlocked. - Active Ability: Phantom Warrior (Level 1) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral warrior to aid you in combat, engaging enemies in close-range melee attacks with powerful, precise strikes. Only one Phantom Warrior can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current warrior. - Passive Ability: Lingering Vitality (Level 1) Slowly regenerate health over time when out of combat, drawing on the presence of the spirit realm to sustain yourself. ] The words faded, but the sense of presence remained. Colm could feel the faint hum of spectral energy coursing through him, a strange and subtle power. Closing his eyes, he reached inward, focusing on the Phantom Warrior ability. As if responding to his thoughts, he felt his mana drain from him, and a solid, ghostly figure shimmered into view before him¡ªa warrior with an ethereal outline, wielding a translucent blade that flickered like a shadow in the dim light. Colm took a step back, startled but captivated. The Phantom Warrior¡¯s form was defined yet fluid, its face obscured, and its eyes glowing with a faint light that held a watchful, determined gaze. It stood ready, calm yet imposing, a silent guardian amid the dark forest. Colm raised a hand experimentally, and the warrior moved in response, drifting closer with a quiet but steady presence. A sense of reassurance washed over him; he wasn¡¯t alone anymore. Colm focused on the Phantom Warrior to test his abilities, observing the solid, flickering shape that seemed both part of this world and beyond it. He reached out, curious about their connection, and felt a steady, protective presence radiating from the spirit. It hovered close, its spectral blade poised, alert to any threat that might approach. Colm realized with relief that the warrior didn¡¯t require his direction¡ªit was bound to him, instinctively ready to defend if danger came near. A faint surge of energy passed between them, assuring him of the spirit¡¯s quiet strength. Though it remained silent, he could sense that it was attuned to his surroundings, fully prepared to act without his command but able to take orders if desired. With a quiet exhale, Colm felt a flicker of confidence. He wouldn¡¯t need to constantly worry about directing his new ally. The Phantom Warrior would guard him, its presence as unwavering as the silent forest around them, waiting to respond should anything threaten its caster. As he observed the effect of this new ally, Colm took a deep breath and concentrated on his passive ability¡ªLingering Vitality. He felt a gentle pull, a connection to the surrounding energy slowly seeping into his being, especially toward the scrapes and scratches he¡¯d sustained while fleeing the forest. The effect was subtle, yet he could feel the sting of his minor injuries fading. Curious, he pulled up his status screen. His health, which had dropped slightly from those scratches, now showed as fully restored, but his mana was now lowered due to his casting of his Phantom Warrior, which had already begun to regenerate. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 1 Health: 100 / 100 Mana: 52 / 75 Strength: 10 Dexterity: 12 Intelligence: 15 Constitution: 10 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 1) Achievements: - Through the Rift He felt a surge of reassurance at the sight¡ªa quiet reminder that his health would recover in the stillness, away from the chaos of battle. Though small, the effect made him feel a touch more resilient, a small comfort in this hostile world. Colm exhaled, feeling his confidence grow as he examined his new abilities. The path ahead was still dark and unknown, but he felt prepared for the first time since arriving here¡ªequipped not only with newfound powers but with a new ally, even if they were ethereal. He knew he was still vulnerable and had much to learn, but now he had the means to face whatever lurked within the shadows. His resolve solidified. However dangerous and strange, this world held a promise he hadn¡¯t felt in years. Here, he would forge a life for himself. He¡¯d no longer be going through the motions, day after day, in a routine that felt empty. There was purpose now, and he could feel it echoing as strongly as the pulse of energy from his spirit ally. Yet questions lingered in his mind, pieces of the puzzle he hadn¡¯t yet grasped: how had he arrived here, and what strange forces had brought him to this place? He wanted answers, but as for his old world, he felt no pull to return. There was nothing, and no one, waiting for him there. No friends keeping vigil, no family wondering where he¡¯d gone. Whatever lay in the past no longer held him. This world was his now, for better or worse. Chapter 3: Survival Colm¡¯s breath fogged in the cool morning air as he crouched in the undergrowth, surveying his surroundings. Night had come and gone, and he¡¯d spent the dark hours nestled in the branches of a sturdy tree, trying to stay hidden and out of reach of any wandering undead. Sleep had been shallow, broken by every snap of a twig or distant groan, but it was enough to keep his mind sharp. Information was key. He¡¯d learned that much from every survival story he read or every game he played. He couldn¡¯t afford to rely on guesswork in a hostile place. Analyze was limited, but it was something¡ªand for now, he would use every scrap of knowledge it provided. He began by analyzing the surrounding plants, hoping to distinguish anything remotely useful. He focused on a spiky shrub nearby, squinting as the translucent window materialized. Thorny Shrub He sighed, moving on, but his instinct to gather information didn¡¯t waver. Knowing what wasn¡¯t helpful was, in its way, still valid. He continued to scan his surroundings, using Analyze on trees, plants, and even stones, hoping to build a mental map of his environment. After hours of creeping through the forest, dodging the shapes and sounds of undead lurking in the shadows, he finally came across a small brook. Relief washed over him as he crouched by the water, eyeing it warily before activating Analyze. Stream Water The name was simple, but he was too thirsty to consider the consequences. He trusted his gut that it was clear water. He drank deeply, the cold water soothing his throat, and splashed some on his face. The simple comfort felt like a reward after a long night and hours of tense maneuvering through the forest. He crouched by the stream''s edge, peering into the water, hoping to spot fish or other sustenance. The water was clear, revealing stones and silt at the bottom, but there was no sign of movement beneath the surface¡ªno fish, no small creatures he could catch. Disappointment settled over him as he gave up on finding a source of food in the stream. The stream felt like a small sanctuary where he could regroup without the constant threat of stumbling into the undead. The thought of moving away from it left him uneasy. He wasn¡¯t ready to face one of those creatures yet. But he knew he couldn¡¯t survive on water alone; he needed food. Feeling slightly refreshed, he began exploring the nearby area, activating Analyze on plants to search for anything edible. His gaze landed on a low-growing bush covered in tiny, red berries. Hesitating, he activated Analyze once more. Red Berries Colm frowned at the result. He wasn¡¯t about to test fate with potentially toxic berries, and nothing in the description gave away any sign, so he moved on, keeping his focus sharp and his awareness heightened. Thinking that there had to be something around here he could safely eat. The forest was a quiet maze, each rustle and creak amplifying his tension. The brook had given him a momentary respite, but hunger gnawed at him, reminding him that water alone wouldn¡¯t sustain him. Moving slowly along the stream, he continued his search, using Analyze on everything he passed. He focused on a cluster of plants with broad, waxy leaves. This one could yield something useful. Broad-Leaf Plant He let out a quiet sigh, shaking his head. Survival here was going to be a game of patience. The surrounding plants weren¡¯t immediately useful, but knowing what to avoid was still knowledge he valued. Suddenly, a faint crackling sound echoed nearby, followed by the unmistakable groan of the undead. Colm froze, heart pounding, his gaze darting to the shadowed forest behind him. He had seen no undead in this area yet and didn''t want to start a fight without a plan. Instinctively, he crouched lower, remaining still, willing to blend into the undergrowth, listening to the creature''s sounds and giving him a vague sense of where the beast lurked. He stayed silent, counting his breaths, waiting until the sounds faded into the distance. The encounter reminded him how close he was to danger and renewed his determination. He wouldn¡¯t just survive but figure out how to live here. Pushing forward, he noticed a small mushroom patch near a tree root. They didn¡¯t look appetizing, but desperation made him consider anything. He activated Analyze on one of the mushrooms. White Mushroom He sighed, frustrated by the lack of helpful information from Analyze. He wasn¡¯t willing to risk getting sick this early, especially with his energy still holding steady and hunger yet to gnaw at him. Moving slowly, he used Analyze on anything that caught his eye¡ªgnarled tree roots, strange flowers, and even oddly shaped rocks. He received only brief, limited descriptions each time, but these fragments helped him build a mental map of his surroundings. Every bit of data mattered; survival here felt like piecing together a puzzle, and Analyze provided him with the scattered clues. After an hour of slow progress, Colm noticed a faint trail leading into a more densely forested area. With a deep breath, he followed it, every sense on high alert. The eerie silence was broken only by the occasional crackle of leaves beneath his boots, each sound making him tense. He hadn¡¯t spotted any undead but knew they were out there. Just as he was beginning to think he¡¯d chosen a quiet path, he heard it¡ªa low, husky moan from somewhere deeper in the trees. His heartbeat quickened, but he didn¡¯t back away. Instead, he crept closer, moving slowly, and focused on the sound, hoping to pinpoint the direction. Peering through the trees, he finally spotted a lone undead shuffling slowly through the undergrowth. It was decayed, its skin hanging off in loose patches, limbs stiff and uneven as it moved. Colm swallowed, steadying himself. This one seemed manageable. It was alone, and its movements were slow and predictable. If he was going to test his abilities, this might be his best chance.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings. The undead stumbled closer, oblivious to their presence. Colm glanced at his Phantom Warrior standing silently beside him, its spectral form flickering faintly but steadily. He took a deep breath, and before directing his ally forward, he cast Analyze on the creature. Undead Walker (Level 2) The result was simple, but it gave him enough insight to gauge the creature¡¯s vulnerability. Its level was lower than the first one he saw. This undead wasn¡¯t fast or agile and seemed on its last legs, which meant his Phantom Warrior could likely handle it. With a slight gesture, he directed his spectral ally forward, watching it close the distance with silent, fluid strides. The undead barely reacted as the warrior¡¯s blade sliced through the air, delivering a powerful strike to its decayed chest. The creature groaned, staggering back from the impact, but it was too slow to counter. The Phantom Warrior pressed the attack, each strike precise, almost mechanical in its efficiency. Within moments, the undead collapsed, its decayed form crumbling. Colm exhaled, the tension leaving his shoulders as he watched the undead¡¯s crumbled form settle into the dirt. He hadn¡¯t even needed to intervene directly; his Phantom Warrior had handled the fight effortlessly. Just as he felt a sense of relief, a translucent popup appeared before his eyes. Undead Walker (Level 2) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. As Colm caught his breath, another low groan drifted through the trees. His relief from the first fight vanished instantly, replaced by a prickling sense of dread. He turned, peering through the shadows, picking up faint shuffling sounds. Another undead was moving toward him. He squinted, trying to gauge its speed and distance, and spotted the creature stumbling through the undergrowth. It was alone, but its jerky, determined movements made it appear slightly more dangerous than the last one. Colm used Analyze once more to gauge the approaching threat. Undead Walker (Level 2) His Phantom Warrior remained at his side, a ghostly figure that gave him some comfort in the tense stillness. This was still a Level 2 enemy¡ªclose enough to his own level to be risky, especially if things didn¡¯t go smoothly. But he couldn¡¯t just keep running. As the creature came closer, he directed his Phantom Warrior forward. The undead¡¯s vacant eyes seemed to lock onto the spectral figure, and it groaned as it stumbled forward, arms outstretched. The Phantom Warrior met its charge, sword raised for a decisive blow. The first strike cut deep into the creature¡¯s torso, causing it to stagger. But this time, the undead reacted faster. It lashed out with a decayed arm, and before the warrior could dodge, its claws tore through the spectral form, causing it to flicker violently. Colm felt a surge of panic as he saw his ally¡¯s form waver, almost as if it were about to vanish. The Phantom Warrior recovered, delivering another strike, but the undead countered again, landing a second hit that sent a ripple through the spectral figure. Colm could see the warrior¡¯s form fading, the once-solid edges becoming translucent, nearly invisible. Another hit like that, and it might vanish entirely. Realizing he had to act fast, Colm directed the Phantom Warrior to press one last attack. The spectral figure lunged, sword flashing as it landed a final blow to the creature¡¯s head, cleaving through with enough force to bring the undead down. The creature crumpled to the ground, motionless. Colm let out a shaky breath as a notification appeared in front of him. Undead Walker (Level 2) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. He glanced at his Phantom Warrior. Its form was barely holding together, a faint outline of what it had been. One more encounter like that, and it wouldn¡¯t last. Deciding not to take any chances, he dispelled the fading figure with a thought and immediately summoned a new one, watching as a fresh, fully-formed warrior appeared by his side, solid and ready once again. The relief was immediate, but he knew he couldn¡¯t afford to be careless. This world was dangerous, and he¡¯d need to be even more cautious if he wanted to stay alive.
The satisfaction of defeating the second undead was fleeting. Before he could fully process the encounter, a new sound filled the air¡ªthe groans and shuffling footsteps of more undead, echoing through the trees and multiplying with each passing second. His chest tightened as he realized the noise of his fight had drawn them in, and this was more than he¡¯d anticipated¡ªa lot more. Heart pounding, Colm spun around, his eyes darting to the shadows. Figures began to emerge, staggering through the trees toward him, their decayed forms moving slowly but relentlessly. Instinctively, he cast Analyze on the advancing horde. Undead Walker (Level 2) Undead Walker (Level ??) Undead Walker (Level 6) ¡­ Undead Walker (Level 5) Colm¡¯s throat went dry. Dozens of them, and some of them he couldn¡¯t even see their level. The level difference alone was enough to make him wary, but the sheer number of undead was overwhelming. There was no way he could stand his ground here. He turned and began to run, dodging branches and leaping over roots as he sprinted through the forest. He didn¡¯t look back, but he could hear them¡ªa relentless horde, groaning and dragging themselves forward, growing louder with each passing second. Every few moments, he would glance over his shoulder, only to see more undead emerging from the shadows, some moving faster than others, their decayed faces twisted into expressions of unending hunger. Desperate to buy some time, he directed his Phantom Warrior to engage the closest undead. The warrior charged forward, blade flashing, taking down the first creature with a precise strike. As Colm continued to flee, undead after undead fell by his spectral ally, collapsing into the undergrowth. A brief notification appeared in his vision. Undead Walker (Level 2) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Undead Walker (Level 1) Defeated. Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 1) Defeated. Experience Gained. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. He¡¯d leveled up, but the realization barely registered as he pushed himself harder, his only thought on escape. The Phantom Warrior continued to engage the horde, dispatching another undead before its spectral form finally flickered out. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. He glanced away at the new notification. His ally had bought him a few precious moments, but the swarm kept coming, an endless wave of rot and decay pressing forward. Colm¡¯s feet pounded against the forest floor as he zigzagged between trees, the shadows lengthening around him. He pushed himself harder, ignoring the ache in his legs and the burn in his lungs. No matter how far he ran, the undead kept coming, their numbers seemingly endless, an insatiable force of decay bearing down on him. The forest felt darker, the air thick with the stench of rot. Panic clawed at him as he realized he couldn¡¯t outrun them forever. Then, just as despair threatened to take over, he felt a strange pull¡ªa subtle but insistent tug that seemed to guide his steps, urging him toward something unseen. He had no idea what it was, but with the undead closing in, he didn¡¯t hesitate. Trusting the feeling, he veered to the right, following the instinctive pull. The groans grew louder behind him, and he could almost feel the undead at his back, their ragged claws reaching through the shadows. He stumbled, righting himself quickly as the pull grew stronger, leading him deeper into the forest. Branches tore at his clothes, and his pulse thundered in his ears, but he kept moving, following the strange, instinctive nudge that urged him forward. Then he saw it¡ªa faint distortion in the air ahead¡ªa shimmering tear pulsing with energy, almost like a doorway hanging between the trees. The energy resonated with his perk as if calling him forward. He didn¡¯t know what it was, but he had no other options. With one last burst of speed, he threw himself into the rift, feeling a wave of warmth and light envelop him as he crossed over. The dark, oppressive forest and the relentless undead vanished in an instant, replaced by something else. Colm staggered forward, catching his breath, his heart still racing as he steadied himself. Whatever lay ahead would have to wait, but for now, he had escaped. Chapter 4: Lucent As Colm¡¯s vision settled, a low hum vibrated through his mind, and a System message appeared, glowing softly in the dim surroundings. [ Echo Detected: The Lucent Grove ] The words held for a moment, and as Colm was still processing the message, the System provided a brief explanation. [ Echoes are unique environments within the Echoed Lands, filled with distinct challenges and valuable resources. Their properties often differ significantly from those of the overworld, and clearing an Echo can yield rare and valuable rewards. ] Colm felt a mix of curiosity and wonder as he took in the message. As he looked around, he noticed the details he hadn¡¯t registered in the rush of his entry. Sturdy stone with lush plants and glowing leaves illuminated the grove with a gentle light, casting colors of blue, green, and soft pink that reflected off smooth stone formations scattered across the landscape. Taking a slow breath, Colm took in the vibrant beauty around him. It was as if he had stepped into an enchanted forest, alive with vivid colors and bathed in soft, ethereal light¡ªsomething straight out of a fairy tale from back home. Towering trees and luminous flora stretched endlessly before him, creating a scene so mesmerizing that he could only stand in silent awe, captivated by the breathtaking wonder. Despite the grove¡¯s peaceful aura, Colm remained wary. The System¡¯s warning echoed in his mind, reminding him that in this world, beauty and danger were often inseparably intertwined. Whatever challenges lay ahead, he¡¯d have to rely on his instincts and adapt to the mysterious Lucent Grove. For now, though, the quiet beauty of this place offered a strange and welcome reprieve. Colm took a few tentative steps, his eyes adjusting to the soft, radiant glow that seemed to come from all around him. Bright, vibrant foliage filled the grove, with delicate vines winding around smooth stones and flowers that pulsed faintly in turquoise, lavender, and gold hues. He inhaled deeply, noticing a crisp, earthy scent with hints of something sweet, like nectar, filling the air. He crouched to examine a cluster of glowing flowers, brushing his fingers over a soft petal. Curious, he used Analyze on the plant. A translucent window appeared. Celestial Bloom He let out a slow breath, feeling an odd comfort in knowing that this environment had life and color. It starkly contrasted the undead-laden landscape he had narrowly escaped, and he couldn¡¯t help but feel a cautious relief. If the Lucent Grove was filled with plants like the Celestial Bloom, he might have access to resources he could put to good use, perhaps even finding items with beneficial effects. As he continued through the grove, he noticed more features that gave the place an almost enchanted quality. Leaves shimmered softly in shades of deep emerald, and streams of faintly glowing water wound between clusters of ferns and flowers. He moved cautiously, keeping his steps light, mentally cataloging each unique feature and noting landmarks that could guide him back if needed. Here and there, small, jewel-like insects flitted between the blooms, leaving brief trails of light. The stillness and beauty allowed his mind to relax just enough to reflect. The frantic escape from the undead was fresh in his memory, and he could almost feel the icy press of fear from his encounter. It had been a reminder of how unpredictable and deadly the Echoed Lands could be. And yet, the Lucent Grove offered a strange, serene counterbalance to that darkness as though it were an oasis meant to ease the soul. But even as he appreciated the peace, he remained wary. The System¡¯s warning had been clear: beauty could easily disguise danger. With another deep breath, Colm calmed his nerves. He had time here to explore, understand the System¡¯s possibilities, and perhaps strengthen himself before his next encounter. He resolved to make the most of this vibrant and mysterious space, knowing it might grant him the tools he¡¯d need to survive whatever came next. With the quiet beauty of the Lucent Grove separating him from the undead-infested overworld, Colm found a rare moment of calm. He remembered the level up notification that had appeared during his frantic escape, a bright pulse from the System that he hadn¡¯t had time to consider fully. With his surroundings feeling safe for the first time in what felt like ages, he mentally brought up the notification. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. He scanned the message, feeling a mix of satisfaction and curiosity about how best to allocate the points. The System had mentioned earlier that his Spirit Warden class granted him multiple stat points per level, with no reference for other classes. He assumed this was an advantage, and he intended to put it to good use. Knowing he had an edge only strengthened his resolve to make the best possible choices. Colm directed a mental command toward the System to make the best choices, seeking further clarification on each stat, hoping for a response. The information appeared immediately. [ Strength - Governs physical power, improving melee damage and carrying capacity. Useful for close-range combat and physical tasks. Dexterity - Increases agility, evasion, and precision, aiding movement, stealth, and quick reflexes. Intelligence - Expands the mana pool and enhances magical skill potency, which is useful for sustaining abilities and performing magical tasks. Constitution - Enhances health, endurance, and damage resistance, providing resilience against both physical and environmental challenges. ] Each description gave him a clearer idea of his options, and as he considered his recent encounters, he started forming a plan. The Echoed Lands were unpredictable, and he needed to build himself into someone who could adapt quickly and stay resilient. He knew he was never a fighter, but he was always athletic, so he knew he could at least maneuver himself around to an extent. But above all, he knew that his Phantom Warrior ability had been his most significant asset.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. To maximize this advantage, he needed to focus on Intelligence, as it sounds like a higher intelligence would increase the lethality of his Phantom Warrior. While Dexterity would still improve his agility and constitution would help Colm withstand blows, Intelligence would be the foundation that strengthened his primary tool in this world. As for strength, he didn¡¯t feel a need to focus on that much with magic at his disposal. With his choices clear, he allocated his points and planned to continue this spread for future level-ups: Intelligence (+2) ¨C To enhance his mana pool, making his Phantom Warrior stronger and more capable as his core ability. Dexterity (+2) ¨C To improve agility, supporting his reflexes and helping him evade attacks. Constitution (+1) ¨C To increase his resilience, allowing him to withstand more damage and keep going in hostile environments. Once the points were allocated, he felt a subtle shift wash over him, his mind becoming clearer, his body more attuned. The System was honing him, aligning him more closely with the abilities he was beginning to master. Satisfied, he pulled up his status page to get a full view of his progress. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 2 Health: 110 / 110 Mana: 75 / 75 Strength: 10 Dexterity: 14 Intelligence: 17 Constitution: 11 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 1) Achievements: - Through the Rift The changes were more apparent now, and he noted that each new point in constitution added 10 points to his Health, while every point in Intelligence increased his Mana by 10. The difference felt significant, giving him a better foundation to summon and sustain his abilities. After scanning through the adjustments, he closed the status page and resummoned his Phantom Warrior, something he hadn¡¯t been able to do since his frantic escape from the undead swarm. He focused, channeling his mana to summon the spectral figure. In a swirl of energy, the Phantom Warrior materialized beside him, its form appearing stronger, more distinct, as if it, too, had been sharpened by his level-up. With his Phantom Warrior at his side, Colm began a careful exploration of the Lucent Grove. The surrounding beauty and calm felt reassuring, but he was under no illusions about the dangers that could still lurk ahead. He sent his Phantom Warrior forward, directing it to scout the area in his stead. The warrior moved silently across the soft earth, its spectral form slipping past glowing plants and low-hanging branches without disturbing a thing. Colm observed it, fascinated by how seamlessly it blended into the Grove¡¯s ethereal light. As it scouted, Colm followed at a cautious distance, maintaining focus on his connection with the Phantom Warrior. After a few moments, he noticed an odd sensation¡ªalmost like a gentle pull¡ªtugging at the edges of his awareness. The warrior had moved further ahead, nearly at the limits of his line of sight. Then, a faint warning sensation coursed through him as though something within his bond with the warrior was stretching too thin. Immediately, a System message appeared in his vision. Phantom Warrior has reached maximum range. Further distance will despawn the spirit. Colm filed the information away, realizing this restriction would be essential in future strategies. He estimated it to be about a 50-foot range which meant he couldn¡¯t rely on the Phantom Warrior to scout too far ahead or in separate areas, forcing him to stay within close proximity. As much as he wanted it to be an independent scout, it would require him to remain aware and responsive to the warrior¡¯s movements. With this limitation in mind, Colm directed the warrior to return, recalibrating his approach. He sent it into clusters of dense vegetation and shadowed spots nearby, using it to probe the Grove¡¯s strange features. At one point, he directed the warrior close to a glowing cluster of flowers that seemed brighter than the others. Using Analyze once again. Sunlit Petals As Colm read through the results, a new notification appeared in his vision. Analyze (Level 1) is now Analyze (Level 2) A sense of accomplishment settled over him. Curious about the skill¡¯s new depth, Colm used Analyze on the Sunlit Petals again to see what more he could learn. Sunlit Petals With a sigh, Colm wasn¡¯t surprised that the rank-up in Analyze had accomplished absolutely nothing. Frustration crept in as his desperation mounted¡ªhe needed to find food, and soon. Time had become meaningless; he didn¡¯t know how long he¡¯d been unconscious or how much time had passed since his awakening. The gnawing hunger was a constant reminder that his body still needed something to sustain it. Taking a calculated risk, Colm turned his attention to the two plants he¡¯d encountered: the Sunlit Petals and the Celestial Blooms. Lingering Vitality should hopefully protect me if anything goes wrong, he thought, though he wasn¡¯t entirely convinced. He started with a Sunlit Petal, plucking it carefully and hesitantly bringing it to his mouth. The moment the petal touched his tongue, his face twisted in disgust, and he spat it out immediately. Sour and bitter¡ªlike chewing on old chalk and lemon. Shaking his head and grimacing, he muttered, ¡°Definitely not that one.¡± Reluctantly, he turned to the Celestial Bloom. He closed his eyes, bracing himself for the worst as he placed it in his mouth. To his surprise, the plant carried a mild, minty flavor¡ªalmost refreshing. Tentatively, he chewed and swallowed. A moment later, he felt it: a faint trickle of energy pulsing through his body, subtle yet revitalizing, like a cool stream running through dry land. Colm exhaled in relief, a flicker of confidence returning. ¡°Looks like this one¡¯s safe,¡± he muttered, plucking another bloom. At least I won¡¯t starve for now. Determined to keep advancing his abilities, Colm resolved to use Analyze as often as possible, seeking to uncover the world''s secrets¡ªand to find a way to rank up his class abilities, too. He kept his Phantom Warrior within its 50-foot range, using it to scout sections of the area and guide his movements. With each exploration, he learned to maximize his companion¡¯s utility and to understand his surroundings better. As he continued forward, his confidence grew, fueled by both his Phantom Warrior and his own adaptability in this vibrant, unpredictable world. Soon, he located a nearby water source and used Analyze on it as well. Stream Water For now, in this relative haven with the abundance of Celestial Blooms and hopefully safe water nearby, he felt equipped to survive as he honed his new abilities and ventured deeper into the unknown. Chapter 5: Experimenting Weeks passed in the Lucent Grove, Colm settled into a disciplined routine. Each morning, he would rise from his makeshift camp by the water, eat a handful of Celestial Blooms, and begin exploring the area. The Blooms were sweet and faintly minty, but after the first few days, he found the taste flat and monotonous. They kept him alive, but he couldn¡¯t help longing for something with texture and flavor. Each morning, he looked at his Phantom Warrior with a sigh. "Bet you don¡¯t have to think about food, huh? Must be nice," he muttered, half to himself and half to his spectral companion. Talking to the warrior had become part of his routine¡ªa strange habit, perhaps, but it kept the silence from feeling too overwhelming. The Grove itself had become familiar. After countless hours of walking and mapping, he knew this cavern¡¯s boundaries well. Though vibrant with glowing flora, the place was eerily empty. No other creatures crossed his path, and aside from the rustle of plants in the breeze and the faint hum of the glowing water, silence reigned. It was beautiful, almost like a sanctuary, yet it left him with a strange sense of isolation. Only the Phantom Warrior kept him company. It had no voice, no personality, yet he¡¯d relied on it¡ªnot just for safety, but for companionship. It was a strange arrangement, speaking to a figure that never responded, but it became part of his routine, an anchor in the otherwise lonely grove. "You know, I used to think having silence was a blessing," he said to it one day as he paced around the camp. "But now, I¡¯d give anything for some noise. A bird, a stream, maybe even some people." He laughed to himself, shaking his head. "Guess I need to talk to someone, even if that someone is¡­ well, a shadow." The warrior stood silently, unwavering as ever, and Colm found comfort in its steady presence. "At least you don¡¯t complain. Or argue. You just listen." He looked at the spectral figure with a faint smirk. "I don¡¯t know what I¡¯d do if you started talking back. Wouldn¡¯t know if I¡¯d be relieved or terrified." One of Colm¡¯s first realizations was that he could use his Phantom Warrior as a sparring partner. Though it didn¡¯t speak or show emotion, it followed his commands with a focus that bordered on eerie. He began instructing it to attack, testing its movements and pushing himself to dodge and counter. At first, he struggled. The warrior¡¯s strikes, while controlled, were precise and quick. Colm often found himself flat on his back, panting as he tried to keep up. But each session brought minor improvements. He could expect its moves better, picking up on subtle patterns in its footwork and the rhythm of its swings. "All right, come at me again. But go easy on me this time, yeah?" he said one afternoon, wiping sweat from his brow. The Phantom Warrior moved forward in response, raising its weapon with silent determination. "If you could talk, you¡¯d probably be laughing at me right now," he grunted, sidestepping its swing. He ducked under another strike, rolling to the side and coming back up on his feet. "But I¡¯ll get better¡ªI know it. One day, I¡¯ll make you work for it." The warrior¡¯s silent, relentless presence fueled him. There was something inspiring about its consistency, how it met him, day after day, without hesitation or fatigue. After each session, he¡¯d leave the warrior on guard while he rested, a habit that comforted him even though he knew there were no actual threats here. "Guess it¡¯s just you and me holding down the fort," he said to the warrior one night as it stood watch. "You know, Warrior, this would be a lot easier if you gave me some pointers." He gave it a wry grin, knowing full well he wouldn¡¯t get a response. "But I get it. Strong and silent. I can respect that." Colm¡¯s days soon filled with experimentation. If he was going to survive in this world, he needed to understand the System fully and learn to make the most of the tools it provided. Analyze became a constant companion, applied to every item, plant, rock, and pool of water he came across. It was straightforward, and Colm appreciated how it provided specific, reliable information. Yet, despite using it frequently, Analyze had yet to rank up again, leaving him with a growing sense of impatience. He could tell that there was more potential locked within the skill, but it seemed to require something beyond routine use¡ªperhaps higher-level targets or unique objects he hadn¡¯t yet encountered. Colm understood that this world required both skill and subtlety, as if the System itself valued adaptability and presence. To survive, he¡¯d need to hone each tool and learn the rules of the Echoed Lands, and Analyze would reveal its secrets as long as he pursued it with persistence and curiosity. "Come on, Analyze," he muttered, half-expecting the System to react. "I¡¯m putting in the work here. You¡¯d think I¡¯d get something for all my effort."Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. When Analyze didn¡¯t respond, he turned his focus to his passive ability, Lingering Vitality. Since the ability only helped when he was injured, he theorized that consistent use might strengthen it. Testing it would mean hurting himself, but he will endure a little pain if it means growth. "Okay, Warrior," he said, rolling up his sleeve. "Make a minor cut on my hand¡ªjust enough to see if this thing works. Go easy on me." The warrior obeyed, delivering a controlled, shallow cut to his arm. Colm winced at the sting, feeling the ache spread, but he focused on the sensation as Lingering Vitality activated. A slow warmth filled the wound, a gentle hum that he could almost feel coming from another realm. "Not exactly pleasant, but I can handle it," he murmured, resting his arm as the wound gradually began to heal. Each day, he repeated the process, pushing his tolerance further. The pain became routine, and he noticed changes¡ªthe healing grew faster, the energy from the spirit realm felt stronger, and his body began to adapt. After a few days, the notification he¡¯d been waiting for appeared. Lingering Vitality (Level 1) is now Lingering Vitality (Level 2) A grin spread across his face, and he looked at his Phantom Warrior. "All that work paid off. Who knew a little pain could go so far?" He scanned the notification again, taking satisfaction. "Not the superpower I was hoping for, but I¡¯ll take it. Maybe Level 3 will really be something." With his newfound resilience, Colm turned his attention to crafting. The Grove didn¡¯t have much in the way of resources, but he was determined to make do. He found a sturdy log and, with the help of his Phantom Warrior, began whittling it down to a manageable spear. "Guess you¡¯re ¡®Carver¡¯ today," he said, grinning as he watched the warrior carve the wood with precision. "Pretty handy with that, aren¡¯t you?" The spear was rough and unbalanced but functional. He tested its weight, spun it a few times, and gave a nod of approval. "Not bad. I¡¯ll keep my distance and let you do the heavy lifting if it comes to that. But at least now I¡¯ve got something." With his makeshift weapon, improved abilities, and steady routine, Colm¡¯s confidence grew. He began to feel ready to leave the Grove and push into unknown territory. But he didn¡¯t want to leave without acknowledging the quiet strength he¡¯d gained from his time here. One evening, as he sat beside the water with his Phantom Warrior standing nearby, he reflected on how far he¡¯d come. "You know, when I first got here, I was terrified," he admitted softly, watching the warrior. "Didn¡¯t think I¡¯d last a week. Everything felt like it was against me. But now?" He let a small smile form on his face. "Now, I think I¡¯m starting to get the hang of it." He glanced up at the shimmering canopy of the Grove, its glow casting gentle shadows across the clearing. "This place¡­ it¡¯s different. And maybe that¡¯s okay." He looked back at the warrior, feeling a surge of determination. "You and me, we¡¯ve made it this far. And there¡¯s no reason we can¡¯t keep going." After a pause, he added, "Whatever¡¯s waiting out there, I¡¯m done with just surviving. Every day from here on, I¡¯m working toward something bigger. I¡¯m not just getting by." With that, he stood, gripping his new spear and giving the warrior a final nod. "All right, Carver. Tomorrow, we will move out. Let¡¯s see what the rest of this place has to offer." As he settled down for the night, his mind drifted through the memories of his time in the Grove. He knew he would carry these lessons with him, the quiet resilience he¡¯d built, and the strange companionship he¡¯d found with his Phantom Warrior. Whatever lay beyond this sanctuary, he was ready to face it with a steady heart and a growing sense of purpose. The following day, after eating his fill and stocking up on Celestial Blooms, Colm rose, took a final look around his small camp, and started forward, venturing deeper into the heart of the Grove. His Phantom Warrior trailed beside him like a silent shadow, a steady presence as he moved into the unknown, away from the safety of the familiar ground he had grown accustomed to over the past weeks. Each step carried him further from the sanctuary he¡¯d created, where he¡¯d found rhythm, strength, and a growing sense of purpose. He couldn¡¯t help but whisper a few words of farewell to his campsite, his voice low. "Thanks, Grove. For everything. Don¡¯t worry¡ªI¡¯ll make sure it all means something." The Phantom Warrior moved steadily beside him, its presence unwavering. Colm reached out almost instinctively as though to pat it on the shoulder, then pulled back, feeling slightly foolish. Still, he couldn¡¯t shake the gratitude he felt for this quiet, constant companion. The warrior had been there through every challenge, every small victory, always dependable¡ªeven if it never spoke a word. "All right, Carver," he said, letting the nickname stick for at least one more day. "Let¡¯s see what¡¯s deeper in here. We¡¯ve got work to do." They moved forward together, leaving behind the light-dappled paths of his familiar route. As they stepped deeper into the Grove¡¯s shadows, where the glowing plants grew denser, and the air felt thick, Colm felt a spark of excitement. The Lucent Grove might hold dangers he couldn¡¯t yet imagine, but he knew now that he had a purpose here¡ªa path to forge and the drive to keep going. And with his Phantom Warrior at his side, he felt prepared for whatever the Echoed Lands might hold in its hidden depths. With a final glance over his shoulder, he gave one last nod to the place that had kept him safe. Then, facing forward, Colm walked on, determined to carve his future from whatever lay ahead. Chapter 6: Onwards Colm ventured forward, his Phantom Warrior¡ªwhom he still called Carver¡ªby his side. He couldn¡¯t quite bring himself to let go of the name; it had grown on him as much as the silent companionship. Moving with careful intent, Colm advanced deeper into the Grove¡¯s uncharted areas, where the trees thickened and vibrant foliage cast shifting patterns of light and shadow. Every sound seemed amplified in the stillness, and he kept his movements steady and quiet, relying on Carver to scout ahead. The warrior¡¯s spectral form glided through the vegetation like a shadow, alert for any sign of danger. After hours of trekking through the same unbroken silence, Colm noticed subtle changes. A low rustling sounded nearby, and now and then, he thought he caught faint growls from somewhere deeper in the woods. He froze, his pulse quickening. "Looks like there¡¯s life here, after all, Carver," he muttered, keeping his voice low. The memory of undead creatures lurking in the shadows flickered through his mind, bringing a wave of tension with it. He forced himself to shake it off. This wasn¡¯t the twisted, decaying forest of the overworld. He was in the Grove, and for once, he sensed actual life nearby. He was itching for a fight to test his growing skills and abilities, but he wanted it on his own terms¡ªagainst something living, something that wasn¡¯t out of his depth. Colm adjusted his stance, moving with extra caution. He hugged the shadows, evading sticks and dry leaves. Just as he felt at ease with this fresh approach, a notification flashed in his vision, catching him off guard. [ Skill Acquired ] Stealth (Level 1) - Basic awareness of your surroundings allows you to blend into shadows and reduce your presence. As if in response, he felt an almost immediate shift, as if the shadows themselves had grown more welcoming. His footsteps felt lighter, each movement ?quieter as he adjusted his steps to avoid loose debris. A grin crept across his face. "Progress, Carver," he whispered. "We¡¯re getting stronger." The silence around him felt transformed¡ªno longer oppressive, but an ally in his cautious advance. He let his newly gained skill guide his steps.? He detected a faint rustling ahead, leading him to a narrow path veering to the left. Trusting his instincts, he followed, keeping his movements quiet and controlled. After a few minutes, he caught sight of something in the distance. In a small clearing, a group of beetle-like creatures, each the size of a small dog, clustered together. He dropped into a crouch, observing them from behind a dense thicket. These creatures were unlike anything he¡¯d encountered before¡ªboth beautiful and ?menacing. Their glistening, petal-like shells shimmered with delicate floral patterns, and each beetle moved with a slow, methodical intensity as it probed the ground with its mandibles. Colm took a slow breath, gripping his spear?, and activated Analyze to gather more information. Blossom Beetle (Level 4) Blossom Beetle (Level 2) Blossom Beetle (Level 2) Colm held his breath as he reviewed the results. Three beetles total¡ªtwo lower-level ones and a stronger leader at Level 4. His grip on the spear tightened as he sized them up. "Finally, a challenge," he muttered. But he knew better than to rush in. First, he wanted to see if they were aggressive but before that he scanned the clearing, his eyes darting to nearby plants, rocks, and shadows, ensuring there were no hidden threats. "Looks like we¡¯re dealing with a group, Carver," he murmured. "But if we¡¯re careful, I think we can take them. Let¡¯s see if they¡¯re aggressive first.¡± He took one final breath to steady himself and formulated a plan. All right, let¡¯s keep this quick and clean. ¡°Carver, we¡¯ll start with the big one. Get in position. I¡¯ll draw them out¡ªif they attack, take them down. Quick and quiet.¡± Colm crouched low behind a cluster of shrubs, directing Carver to circle around the clearing. The Phantom Warrior moved with an eerie smoothness, its spectral form blending almost seamlessly with the Grove¡¯s faint glow as it approached the largest beetle. Carver stopped just short, hovering a few steps away from the massive creature, poised to strike. Colm stepped forward deliberately, the soft crunch of his boots breaking the quiet. ¡°Hey!¡± he called, testing the waters. The reaction was immediate. A screech split the air as one of the smaller level 2 beetles lunged toward him, its body skittering forward with surprising speed. Carver sprang into motion without hesitation. In a single, fluid movement, the Phantom Warrior delivered three swift, devastating strikes before the beetle even had a chance to process the attack. A sharp, satisfying crunch echoed through the clearing as Carver¡¯s blade pierced its petal-like shell, splitting it open. The beetle staggered, its heavy form trembling as it struggled to turn and face its attacker. The other beetle nearby reacted instantly, its antennae snapping up as it detected the scuffle. It charged toward Carver, mandibles clicking with aggressive speed. A notification appeared in Colm¡¯s vision. Blossom Beetle (Level 4) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. He quickly dismissed the notification, his focus shifting back to the approaching beetle. Carver, undeterred, dodged the beetle¡¯s charge, pivoting smoothly to strike it. The warrior¡¯s blade struck true, staggering the beetle as it stumbled back. Before the beetle could recover, Carver delivered another swift blow, ending its charge. Another notification popped up. Blossom Beetle (Level 2) Defeated. Experience Gained. But before Carver could turn to the last beetle, the beetle that initially charged towards Colm, it had pivoted back to the phantom and struck the warrior with a powerful charge. The impact sent the Phantom Warrior shimmering, its form wavering before it vanished, returning to the spirit realm. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. "No!" Colm whispered sharply, frustration mixing with a pang of unexpected loss. Carver had been with him through every challenge, every small victory. Seeing it disappear, even temporarily, felt strangely painful. But he forced himself to refocus. "Stay sharp, Colm. Don¡¯t get reckless." With a steady breath, he re-summoned Carver, directing it to hover nearby as a backup. He wanted to test his own abilities against the remaining beetle to see if his training had indeed paid off. "Stay close, but let me take this one," he muttered to Carver, issuing a mental command for the warrior, only to intervene if necessary. He moved slowly, keeping his stance balanced as he closed in on the beetle. The creature¡¯s antennae twitched, and it turned to face him, clicking its mandibles in warning. Colm waited, watching its movements closely, and as it charged forward, he sidestepped quickly, bringing his spear down in a controlled arc that struck its exposed back. The beetle wheeled around, antennae flaring, and he braced himself, ready to dodge its next charge. Each time it lunged, he sidestepped and countered, using his spear to strike its vulnerable spots. After repeating the process several times, the beetle finally collapsed, its legs twitching before it went still. A final notification appeared. Blossom Beetle (Level 2) Defeated. Experience Gained. Panting, Colm dropped to the ground, feeling both relief and a thrill of exhilaration. He glanced at the notifications, satisfaction spreading through him. "Progress, Carver. Real progress," he said, grinning as he caught his breath.Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere. The exhaustion in his muscles, and the stinging soreness from the encounter, only heightened his sense of accomplishment. He opened his status sheet to check his progress. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 2 Health: 110 / 110 Mana: 45 / 70 Strength: 10 Dexterity: 14 Intelligence: 17 Constitution: 11 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 2) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 2) - Stealth (Level 1) Achievements: - Through the Rift As he scanned the details, a sense of pride swelled within him. "We¡¯re getting there, Carver," he said, his voice laced with determination. "There¡¯s still a way to go, but I can feel it. We¡¯re just getting started." He took a moment to let the adrenaline fade, feeling a newfound resolve settling within him. He was learning to adapt, and with each fight, he felt more in tune with both himself and the Echoed Lands.
Colm wasn¡¯t done stumbling upon Blossom Beetles. Over the next few days, he roamed through the dense woods, following the subtle sounds of the rustling beetles, trusting them to guide him toward clusters of creatures. The beetles seemed to congregate in small groups, often three at a time, though he occasionally came across larger swarms. With each encounter, Colm¡¯s method became more efficient, his strikes sharper, and his tactics refined. To start, he relied on a familiar strategy: he would send Carver in first, allowing his Phantom Warrior to handle the bulk of the fighting. Carver would charge into the fray, drawing the attention of the beetles, while Colm remained hidden, carefully conserving his energy and preparing for the finishing blows. Nearly every time, Carver would be defeated in the fight, but Colm would simply resummon him and finish off the final beetle himself. This method served him well¡ªuntil he encountered a particularly powerful group led by a beetle unlike any he¡¯d faced before. Its shell gleamed with a more intense hue, and its movements were quicker, more deliberate. Colm activated Analyze and felt his pulse quicken as he read the result. Blossom Beetle (Level 7) Blossom Beetle (Level 4) Blossom Beetle (Level 4) "Level 7¡­" he murmured, glancing at Carver. "This might be a bit tricky." Colm considered turning around, but he pushed the thought aside. Experience had taught him that levels weren¡¯t everything; strategy and preparation could tip the scales. He carefully surveyed his surroundings, noting possible routes for escape or evasion if things went south. The familiar thrill of danger ran through him, and he gripped his spear tightly. "All right, Carver," he whispered, "let¡¯s stick with the usual plan, but stay sharp. This one might hit harder." As usual, he sent Carver in from the side, hoping to take out the larger beetle swiftly. Carver moved with precision, charging at the beetle¡¯s flank, but this time, something was different. The Level 7 beetle reacted with surprising speed, countering with a brutal swipe of its mandibles. Carver shimmered and faded, defeated before he¡¯d even had a chance to land a proper blow. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Colm¡¯s heart raced. The large beetle had somehow sensed him, its antennae swiveling as it picked up on his presence despite his best efforts to stay concealed. Panic shot through him as he took a quick step back, but the beetle lunged forward with unexpected speed, its body grazing his side. Pain lanced through him as he stumbled back, his health dropping by nearly a third. Gritting his teeth, he forced himself to focus. With a quick breath, he resummoned Carver, directing him to hold the position in the brush as Colm retreated a few steps, keeping himself low and hidden, willing the pain to dull. The beetles charged after him, dead set on closing the distance, and Colm¡¯s mind raced, fighting the instinct to panic. As they barreled through the undergrowth, they were oblivious to Carver waiting in the shadows. Colm gave a mental command, and Carver sprang forward, landing a precise strike on the large beetle¡¯s vulnerable side. With the leader dispatched, the remaining two beetles fell into a predictable pattern, and together, Colm and Carver finished them off with relative ease. When the last beetle lay still, Colm sank to his knees, clutching his side and feeling the raw sting of the wound, letting his Lingering Vitality do its job. The encounter had been closer than he¡¯d expected¡ªa harsh reminder of how quickly things could go wrong in the Echoed Lands. Blossom Beetle (Level 7) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Blossom Beetle (Level 4) Defeated. Experience Gained. Blossom Beetle (Level 4) Defeated. Experience Gained. When the dust settled, Colm took a long, steadying breath, letting the adrenaline fade. He had come close to disaster¡ªtoo close. Sitting down against a tree, he reflected on the encounter, running through what he¡¯d learned. "If that beetle had gotten close enough¡­ I would¡¯ve been done for," he muttered. The realization sent a chill through him. It was a stark reminder that even with his recent progress, he still had weaknesses he couldn¡¯t ignore. "Looks like I need some kind of defense," he said to Carver, who stood silently nearby. "Something that can keep me safe when things go sideways." He hoped that as he grew stronger, he might unlock new class skills to cover this vulnerability. But since he had no way of knowing when¡ªor if¡ªthat would happen, he resolved to keep pressing forward, determined to become strong enough that even the toughest beetles in the Grove would be no match. The following days turned into a cycle of scouting, fighting, and resting. With each new encounter, Colm ventured deeper into the Grove, where the Blossom Beetles seemed to grow in both number and strength. The sounds of rustling foliage and distant growls from unseen creatures kept him on high alert, a constant reminder that the Grove held more than just beetles. He stumbled upon different, passive wildlife over the days. Some resembled bunnies, foxes, and even an occasional bird, but nothing but the beetles were aggressive and offered him a fight. He continued refining his tactics. Using Stealth, he would position himself before each fight, staying hidden while Carver engaged the beetles. He became quicker at identifying weak points in their shells, learning to time his strikes to maximize his advantage. In turn, Carver¡¯s movements grew sharper and more synchronized with Colm¡¯s commands until they moved almost as one. One evening, as he scouted through yet another patch of dense foliage, he realized something strange: despite scouring the area, he could no longer find any more beetles worth fighting. He encountered a few, but each one was now several levels lower than him. When he defeated one and didn¡¯t gain a single point of experience, he paused, furrowing his brow. "Guess that means we¡¯ve outgrown them," he said, glancing over at Carver. A sense of accomplishment filled him, mixed with the familiar thrill of wanting to push himself further. It was time to look for bigger prey. Later that night, Colm sat at his makeshift camp near a stream he¡¯d discovered, finishing off his meal of Celestial Blooms. He stared at the Grove around him, the flickering glow of mana-rich plants casting faint shadows that danced across the forest floor. "I think it¡¯s time to try and find something a bit stronger, Carver," he said, looking at the spectral figure beside him. His voice was calm steady, and for the first time, he felt as if he was speaking to more than just a summon. "What do you think?" he asked, almost as if expecting a response from his silent ally. Carver, of course, remained still, its presence unchanging, but Colm felt a sense of reassurance in its silence. This spectral companion had been with him through every close call, every victory, and every moment of doubt. It had become more than a skill¡ªit was a partner, a trusted ally. "Guess that¡¯s settled, then," he murmured, glancing down at his notifications and relishing his progress over the past few days. Lingering Vitality (Level 2) is now Lingering Vitality (Level 3) Phantom Warrior (Level 1) is now Phantom Warrior (Level 2) The effect of Lingering Vitality had strengthened, and Colm could already sense a slight improvement in his recovery rate¡ªa small but satisfying change. For his Phantom Warrior, he noticed subtle differences: the warrior¡¯s form appeared a bit more solid, its blade sharper, and it could now move slightly farther away from him, reaching a range of 55 feet. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 6 Health: 140 / 140 Mana: 110 / 110 Strength: 14 Dexterity: 18 Intelligence: 22 Constitution: 14 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 2) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 3) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 2) - Stealth (Level 1) Achievements: - Through the Rift Seeing his stats filled him with quiet pride. He was stronger now¡ªphysically, mentally, and as a fighter. At first, he''d planned to focus less on strength, hoping to keep his distance and rely on strategy over raw power. But the Grove had shown him otherwise. Facing down Blossom Beetles in tight quarters, relying on close-range attacks with his spear, and the need to react quickly had shifted his perspective. He¡¯d needed more strength than he¡¯d anticipated¡ªand he¡¯d adapted. The days of stumbling unthinkingly through the Grove, overwhelmed by every sound and shadow, felt distant now. He had a purpose and a clear goal, and he was willing to do whatever it took to reach it. Flexibility, he realized, was just as crucial as a strategy in the Echoed Lands. He took a final look around, the sounds of the Grove filling his ears. Tomorrow, he would venture deeper, beyond the Grove¡¯s familiar paths, seeking out whatever new challenges awaited him. He still had a long way to go, but he felt ready, more prepared than he¡¯d ever been. "Tomorrow, we hunt for something bigger," he said, nodding toward Carver. "Let¡¯s see what else The Lucent Grove has in store for us." Chapter 7: Campsite As Colm ventured deeper into the Grove, each step brought new shapes and shadows, the trees growing taller and more twisted, like silent sentinels guarding the secrets of the Grove. After some time, he noticed the trees beginning to thin ahead. The dense foliage gave way to an open area, revealing what looked like the remnants of a makeshift campsite. He paused, scanning his surroundings and listening carefully. The camp lay still, untouched by any apparent movement or sound. Cautiously, he scouted the woods surrounding the clearing, moving silently while utilizing his Stealth skill and keeping his grip firm on his wooden spear. He¡¯d learned to not trust appearances, and he wasn¡¯t about to let his guard down now. After a few tense minutes, satisfied that nothing was lurking nearby, he stepped into the clearing. The camp looked hastily abandoned: a small fire pit sat in the center, its charred remains circled by stones and bits of blackened wood. Scattered around the fire pit, rough bedrolls fashioned from leaves and bark lay clearly left behind in a hurry. As he looked over the scene, a spark of hope stirred within him. "Someone¡¯s been here before, Carver," he murmured to his spectral companion, who hovered silently nearby, observing the surroundings with quiet vigilance. The thought that others had once been in this place¡ªperhaps even survived for a time¡ªgave Colm an unusual sense of connection. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if they had been travelers like him, thrust into this world against their will or if they were perhaps from here. He sifted through the remains of the camp, hoping to find supplies, tools, or perhaps even clothing. His own outfit desperately needed replacement; his shirt and jeans were torn and caked with dirt, barely holding together after weeks of wear and makeshift washes in the streams he¡¯d found. As he pulled at the frayed edge of his shirt, he laughed dryly. "Unfortunately, no spare pants here, Carver. You might need to prepare yourself. I might run through this place in the nude before long." Continuing his search, he found a few items scattered around: a dented tin cup, some scraps of cloth, and the remains of what might have once been a satchel. But everything seemed worn and hastily discarded, as if the camp¡¯s previous occupants had left with only the essentials. Then, something unusual caught his eye. Near the fire pit, deep gouges scarred the ground, accompanied by dark stains that looked like dried blood. His pulse quickened as he knelt to get a closer look. Running his fingers lightly over the jagged marks, he felt a chill of recognition. "Carver," he whispered, his voice low. "These claw marks... It looks like something attacked them." Colm frowned, unsettled. There was a disturbing intensity in their uneven edges, as if some noble creature had clawed the earth in rage or desperation. He scanned the surrounding area, piecing together fragments of a story that seemed to whisper from the disturbed soil. Could this attack be the work of some creature he¡¯d yet to encounter? He couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that these marks held hints, fragments of a larger story unfolding around him. A flicker of determination stirred within him. Maybe, just maybe, finding out what had left these claw marks would reveal something vital to this world¡ªand his place in it. His eyes darted around the clearing, taking in more of the details he¡¯d missed before. Bedrolls were upturned, belongings scattered as if abandoned in haste. He noted impressions on the ground¡ªfootsteps that had faded but hinted at a struggle. Whatever had attacked the campers was powerful and unrelenting, leaving behind only remnants of a desperate escape. A sudden, creeping anxiety filled him as he rose to his feet. He could feel the weight of his heartbeat in his chest, each beat pounding in a silent warning. The sight of dried blood and claw marks was a visceral reminder of the Grove¡¯s dangers, and despite all his training, he felt an instinctive urge to flee back into the trees. He backed up a few steps, keeping his spear in front of him, his gaze fixed on the shadows around the clearing. He hurriedly scanned the edges of the camp once more, every fiber of his being attuned to the slightest movement or sound. There was nothing but the wind rustling the branches, but the oppressive stillness in the air made it feel as though something unseen was watching him. After a tense moment, he whispered to Carver, "I think we¡¯ve overstayed our welcome here." He took a step back, then another, retreating into the safety of the trees with Carver floating by his side. Once he reached the edge of the clearing, he took a shaky breath, trying to steady himself. The vivid image of the bloodstains and claw marks replayed in his mind, making him think that whatever creature made those marks had likely claimed the campers¡¯ lives. Despite the tension, something else stirred within him¡ªa surge of excitement and determination that he hadn¡¯t felt since first arriving in this world. He didn¡¯t fully understand the Grove, but he knew it held secrets, dangers, and, perhaps, answers. And he wanted to face them. He glanced over at Carver, his lips curving into a slight grin. "You up for a challenge, Carver?" he asked, his voice tinged with a thrill he couldn¡¯t quite contain. "Looks like this place has more to it than I thought." The thrill of the unknown mingled with his fear, stoking a fire deep within him. He tightened his grip on his spear, feeling its familiar weight in his hand, and straightened his stance. Whatever creature had left those marks was most likely still out there¡ªand Colm knew he couldn¡¯t leave the Grove until he¡¯d faced it, learned from it, and proven he was strong enough to survive in this strange, unforgiving world. With one last look back at the campsite, Colm turned and began his journey deeper into the Grove, his senses heightened, every nerve attuned to his surroundings.
Colm spent the next few days trekking deeper into the Grove, hoping all this exploration would prove worthwhile. Each day brought the promise of discovery, though most encounters had been tame¡ªa few glimpses of small wildlife darting through the trees, which he¡¯d tried and failed to catch. Realizing he had no easy way of making a fire and was wary of drawing the attention of the beast that had attacked the camp, he¡¯d given up on hunting. Occasionally, he came across groups of Blossom Beetles, though all beneath his own level, and each time, he felt that familiar itch for something more.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. The further he traveled, the more the landscape shifted. The plant life grew dimmer, casting shadows across his path as if he¡¯d passed some invisible threshold within the echo. Now, in this new, darker section of the Grove, he heard distant sounds¡ªmovement, faint rustling, and subtle shifts in the underbrush. His senses sharpened, and he leveraged Stealth skill, pushing it to the limit as he crept forward. As he crossed what seemed like an abandoned path, a notification appeared. Stealth (Level 1) is now Stealth (Level 2) The rank-up sent a surge of excitement through Colm, a deep satisfaction bubbling within him at his progress. But the moment was cut short by the sudden sound of rustling leaves. His heart stilled as he dismissed the notification, standing motionless and scanning the area, barely daring to breathe. At first, nothing seemed out of place¡ªjust the usual twisted trees and clusters of dark foliage. Then he saw it: a subtle movement, a flash of green flesh blending almost seamlessly with the dense mushroom clusters. The creature was horrifying. Short and hunched, its body was covered in fungi, its unnervingly human-like form twisted and grotesque. Long claws extended from its hands, and its face was dominated by a sinister, toothy grin that sent a chill down Colm¡¯s spine. Focusing on the creature, he used Analyze. Fungal Goblin (Level ??) Colm¡¯s gut clenched as he registered the result. The System didn¡¯t display the creature¡¯s level¡ªa clear sign it was likely far beyond his own. A flash of caution urged him to retreat, but an equally powerful thrill held him back. He hadn¡¯t felt the rush of an actual fight in too long, and the mystery of this creature¡¯s power gnawed at him. A brief image of his old life flashed in his mind: sitting at his desk, merely surviving. That wasn¡¯t enough for him anymore. Taking a steady breath, he steeled himself, ready to test his limits. Over the next few hours, he stalked the goblin from as close as he dared, studying it carefully. The goblin moved through the shadows with an unsettling agility, slinking in and out of dense patches of shrubbery. He watched it lash out with unnaturally sharp claws at any creature that crossed its path, its blows swift and brutal. He noted its speed and strength, making mental notes of its tactics and weaknesses. Once he had a plan, he positioned himself at a distance and motioned for Carver to follow. His heart raced with anticipation. He would use Carver to distract the goblin, draw it into position, and then strike from behind. Holding his breath, he signaled Carver, pushing his stealth skill to its limit. As if in reward, another notification blinked in his vision. Stealth (Level 2) is now Stealth (Level 3) He grinned, surprised at the rapid progress¡ªit had just ranked up to 2¡ªand quickly dismissed the notification, focusing on the scene unfolding ahead. The goblin had spotted Carver, its eyes narrowing with a sharp, predatory gleam. It raised its clawed hands, preparing to strike. The moment it lunged at Carver, Colm sprang into action, rushing forward and driving his spear deep into the goblin¡¯s leg. A guttural howl erupted from the creature as it staggered, thrown momentarily off balance. But it recovered fast, retaliating with a brutal swipe to Carver¡¯s chest, instantly dissolving the Phantom Warrior into mist. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Colm gritted his teeth, the creature¡¯s sheer power sending a thrill and a jolt of fear through him. Wiping sweat from his brow, he resummoned his Phantom Warrior, feeling his mana drain with the familiar pull. He stepped back, hoping to make the goblin focus on Carver again, to give him time for another strike. But as if sensing his plan, the goblin whipped around with astonishing speed and lunged directly at Colm. He barely dodged in time, but a claw clipped his shoulder, sending him sprawling to the ground, pain lancing through him. Before the goblin could land another hit, Carver was back, intercepting it with a flurry of attacks. Despite Carver¡¯s strikes, the goblin staggered but held its ground, refusing to fall, its breathing heavy and ragged, yet its eyes still gleamed with an eerie ferocity. Glancing at his status, Colm saw his health below half. He couldn¡¯t afford another mistake. With a groan, he forced himself to his feet, watching as the goblin readied itself for another charge. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Colm¡¯s heart pounded as he felt his mana drain with each resummon, knowing he was running low. But with one last surge of focus, he summoned Carver once more, readying himself for a final assault. The goblin¡¯s limping charge began, and Colm tightened his grip on his spear, feeling the battle-worn wood in his hands. He dodged right as Carver moved to the left, surrounding the goblin. This time, the creature turned its back on Colm, too focused on Carver. Seizing the moment, Colm drove his spear deep into the goblin¡¯s back, striking with all his remaining strength. The goblin staggered, howling in pain, and Carver delivered a final, decisive blow to its chest. The creature convulsed, then collapsed to the ground, defeated. Breathless, Colm managed a grin. "We did it, Carver," he muttered, sinking to his knees, every muscle aching. Gasping for breath, he crawled into a nearby cluster of underbrush, putting a safe distance between himself and the site of the battle to avoid attracting any unwanted attention. He pulled up his notifications, eager to see the results. Fungal Goblin (Level 17) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Seeing the goblin¡¯s level on the notification filled him with pride, and the experience gained left him grinning. A few more fights like this, and he¡¯d be well on his way to more power. Another notification popped up. Phantom Warrior (Level 2) is now Phantom Warrior (Level 3) Just as he was about to relax, a final notification popped up. [ Loot Acquired: Fungal Charm ] An eerie charm fashioned from twisted roots and fungi harvested from the Fungal Goblin. When worn, the charm slightly boosts resistance to poison and environmental effects, providing limited immunity to minor toxins and fungal spores. Colm examined the charm, a gnarled twist of roots with a faint, pulsing glow. It was small, but as he held it, a strange warmth seeped through his fingers. He blinked, surprised¡ªa dropped item. He hadn¡¯t seen anything leave behind loot before. "Guess the system¡¯s feeling generous," he murmured with a smirk, feeling a surge of satisfaction. The charm¡¯s description mentioned a slight resistance to poison, something that could be invaluable in the Grove¡¯s depths. Carefully, he slipped it into his pocket, deciding it would be his new good luck charm. Lying there, hidden among the underbrush as Lingering Vitality gradually healed his wounds, Colm smiled. "Carver looks like it¡¯s goblin-slaying season," he said with a quiet laugh. Chapter 8: Grinding Colm drove his spear deep into the latest Fungal Goblin, watching as the creature¡¯s body slumped to the ground. He took a deep breath, settling down on a nearby log to catch his breath, glancing at his weapon. This was his fourth spear¡ªhe¡¯d had to make several replacements throughout his goblin-slaying spree as each one eventually splintered or cracked under the strain. He¡¯d grown used to the process, but each break served as a reminder of just how intense these battles could be. As he adjusted his grip, a notification flashed in his vision. Fungal Goblin (Level 15) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. He swiped the notification away, feeling a slight twinge of pride¡ªbut also a flicker of frustration. This was his fifth Fungal Goblin today, each around his level, yet he was barely breaking a sweat. He leaned back, muttering, "I¡¯m not even struggling, Carver." His mind drifted back to his first day here, to the disorientation and sense of dread. The system had hinted then at "unique class opportunities," a rare advantage, it seemed, that he was finally understanding. He wondered just how much of an edge it had truly given him. Maybe the reason he wasn¡¯t struggling against these goblins was because of that extra push from the Spirit Warden class. Pushing those thoughts aside, he pulled up his status page, eager to see the progress he¡¯d made in the last few days. As the stats appeared, he felt a quiet satisfaction settling over him. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 14 Health: 300 / 300 Mana: 175 / 175 Strength: 20 Dexterity: 23 Intelligence: 35 Constitution: 30 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 4) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 5) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 3) - Stealth (Level 5) - Pain Resistance (Level 3) - Hardened Skin (Level 1) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) Achievements: - Through the Rift Colm was thrilled to see that he had developed new skills. He¡¯d endured plenty at the hands of these goblins, bearing countless cuts from their sharp claws, gritting his teeth, and pushing through the pain each time. Glancing through the notifications once more, he took in his progress with satisfaction. [ Skill Acquired ] Pain Resistance (Level 1) - Through repeated exposure, you¡¯ve built a tolerance to pain, allowing you to endure discomfort and minor injuries with reduced sensitivity. Pain Resistance (Level 1) is now Pain Resistance (Level 2) Pain Resistance (Level 2) is now Pain Resistance (Level 3) [ Skill Acquired ] Hardened Skin (Level 1) - Your skin has toughened through repeated exposure to damage, providing a slight natural resistance to physical attacks. [ Skill Acquired ] Slash Resistance (Level 1) - Through repeated exposure to cutting attacks, your skin has developed a natural resilience, providing slight resistance to slashing damage. Slash Resistance (Level 1) is now Slash Resistance (Level 2) Slash Resistance (Level 2) is now Slash Resistance (Level 3) Slash Resistance (Level 3) is now Slash Resistance (Level 4) Seeing the stats and new skills laid out before him was deeply satisfying. His health had more than tripled since his arrival, thanks to a steady investment in constitution. The increase wasn¡¯t just a number¡ªhe could feel the difference. Where a single hit had once knocked him to half-health, he could now shrug off glancing blows from Fungal Goblins without a second thought. Each point in constitution seemed to fortify his body, layering on resilience with every encounter. Besides the new skills, he felt stronger and more durable than ever. He also felt faster and stronger than ever before. Every point invested in Dexterity and Strength made a marked difference, sharpening his reflexes and boosting his power. He¡¯d spent time running sprints and testing his limits, and the results were exhilarating. Back on Earth, this level of speed and strength would have been impossible¡ªnow he felt as if he could outrun and outmaneuver anyone. Likewise, his intelligence points brought a sharper edge to his abilities. His Phantom Warrior felt more solid and precise, its strikes deadlier, as if each increase in Intelligence enhanced not just its form but its very presence on the battlefield. The stats weren¡¯t just numbers anymore; they were becoming part of him, layering strength, agility, and resilience into something far beyond what he had ever been.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. He felt a similar sense of improvement across his abilities. His Phantom Warrior had gained new ranks, dealing more damage with each strike and a further tether distance to himself. Though there hadn¡¯t been any groundbreaking changes, the steady enhancements made it a more reliable ally in combat. Analyze had leveled up as well, offering more detailed descriptions of his targets, which helped him pick up on minor weaknesses and patterns in each creature¡¯s behavior. "I was hoping for something big at level 10," he admitted to himself, "maybe some new class ability or unique perk." But nothing had triggered, so he was holding out hope that level 15 would unlock something special. He was closing in on it, after all. In the meantime, he had grown familiar with this stretch of the Grove. He¡¯d hunted nearly every Fungal Goblin in the area, culling their numbers to the point where he now had trouble finding any stragglers. These creatures were aggressive and territorial, and as he saw it, they were just as likely to ambush him if he didn¡¯t get the jump on them first. Clearing them out felt as natural as it was necessary. Determined to reach the next level, Colm spent a few more days hunting down the remaining Fungal Goblins in the area. He could feel that he was close to leveling up¡ªa faint but growing sensation, as though he were teetering on the edge of a breakthrough. Each encounter honed his skills further, and he pushed himself in different ways with every fight, determined to make this last push count. After dispatching two more goblins at level 16, he stumbled upon a particularly nasty one lurking deeper in the Grove. When he used Analyze, the result flashed back in his vision. Fungal Goblin (Level 24) A cold thrill shot through Colm as he faced the Fungal Goblin¡ªthe highest-level enemy he had encountered yet. Adrenaline surged, and he tightened his grip on his spear; every muscle coiled and ready. "Let¡¯s go, Carver," Colm whispered, creeping forward. He lunged with inhuman speed, his spear striking true with a powerful thrust, while Carver¡¯s blade tore into the goblin with lethal precision. But the goblin¡¯s movements were chaotic and unpredictable, forcing Colm to stay light on his feet, weaving through each frantic swipe. Midway through the skirmish, disaster struck¡ªjust as he thrust his spear forward, the goblin countered, snapping the weapon cleanly in two. The goblin¡¯s twisted grin widened, its confidence renewed as it lunged toward him, emboldened by the broken weapon in his hands. But Colm¡¯s grin only sharpened. "This isn¡¯t over; it¡¯s just getting started," he murmured. Even unarmed, Colm kept Carver on the offensive, his spectral ally delivering relentless strikes while he stayed just out of reach, dodging and slipping past the goblin¡¯s wild attacks. His Dexterity kept him a step ahead, letting him evade the creature¡¯s blows with only a few scrapes as it swiped again and again. Finally, Carver¡¯s unrelenting strikes began to take their toll. The goblin¡¯s movements slowed, its breathing grew labored, and its stance wavered. Seizing the moment, Colm directed Carver in for the kill. The Phantom Warrior closed in, delivering a powerful, final blow as its blade plunged into the goblin¡¯s chest. The creature convulsed, letting out one last guttural howl before collapsing to the ground, defeated. Colm exhaled, his muscles aching, catching his breath. "We did it, Carver," he muttered, a weary grin spreading across his face. With a last glance around, he limped into a nearby cluster of underbrush, putting some distance between himself and the battleground to avoid drawing any attention. Safely hidden, Colm eagerly pulled up his notifications to see the results of the hard-fought battle. Fungal Goblin (Level 24) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. New class abilities available. Colm¡¯s heart pounded as he absorbed the significance of the level-up, his eyes catching on to new class abilities available to pick from. A grin spread across his face. "Finally," he whispered.
Looking through the options, Colm felt a surge of excitement. These were tangible results¡ªreal boosts to his arsenal. Examining each skill, he muttered, "Looks like these new abilities are all active. Passives must require a different threshold." Taking a steadying breath, he let the choices sink in. "Alright," he thought, "time to decide what to focus on next," as he started scrolling through the notifications with anticipation. [ New class abilities available. Select a new Class Active Ability. Active Ability: Phantom Spearman (Level 1) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral spearman to aid you in combat, who wields a long spear and is effective for keeping enemies at a distance. The Spearman delivers powerful thrusts that can push back enemies, making it useful for maintaining control over the battlefield. Only one Phantom Spearman can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current Spearman. Active Ability: Spectral Bolt (Level 1) Mana: 10 Conjures a bolt of spectral energy that streaks toward a distant enemy with a haunting, ethereal glow. Upon impact, the bolt deals moderate damage and leaves a chilling effect, sapping the target¡¯s agility and reducing their movement speed for a short duration. Active Ability: Phantom Step (Level 1) Mana: 30 Allows the user to move a short distance with significantly increased speed, making it ideal for dodging incoming attacks, closing the gap between foes, or retreating to safety. While phased, they leave behind a faint trail of spectral energy, briefly disorienting nearby enemies and creating a lingering afterimage that draws attention away from their actual position. ] "Carver, they all seem so good," Colm muttered, studying the options. Each ability called to a different combat style, each one unlocking a path forward he hadn¡¯t fully considered. He could amass an army of phantoms, each spirit bringing its own strengths. Or he could focus on supporting his Phantom Warrior from a distance, applying pressure while keeping his distance. Then there was the maneuverability he¡¯d gain from Phantom Step¡ªslipping out of reach, dodging blows with ease. Every option was tempting, yet he knew he¡¯d need to choose what would benefit him most now. He thought through each ability. With the Phantom Spearman, he¡¯d have a stronger presence on the battlefield, and he wouldn¡¯t be at such a loss if his Phantom Warrior fell in combat. The Spearman would allow him to split his enemy¡¯s focus, making him harder to overwhelm. Then there was Spectral Bolt. That would give him a way to keep the pressure on from a distance, striking from afar while his Phantom Warrior closed in. It would be his first actual ranged attack¡ªa perfect way to apply damage from safety. And finally, Phantom Step would give him a reliable way to dodge and survive when things got tight. He could dart out of harm¡¯s way or slip past an enemy¡¯s guard to set up his own attacks. "Gah, why do they all have to be such great options?" Colm sighed, sinking down onto a nearby log. His mind raced with the possibilities, each one painting a different picture of how his future battles could look. For a moment, he thought of his life back on Earth, the feeling of isolation he¡¯d often faced. He¡¯d spent so many hours in games growing up, imagining what it¡¯d be like to summon allies or cast magical bolts. And now here he was, with real power and the chance to shape his path. He took a deep breath, glancing at Carver, his spectral companion. "Alright, Carver, I¡¯ve decided." His voice steadied as the choice solidified in his mind. "We¡¯re going to build an army." With resolve, Colm selected the Phantom Spearman, his heart racing with anticipation for the battles to come. Once he made his choice, Colm summoned his new Phantom Spearman and positioned him beside his Phantom Warrior. The two spirits looked nearly identical, their ghostly forms mirroring each other, with the Spearman¡¯s weapon as the only apparent difference. Colm grinned as he took in the sight of his growing spectral army. Pulling up his status screen, he allocated his attribute points, feeling a renewed sense of purpose as he strengthened his arsenal. He glanced at his original summon¡ªthe Phantom Warrior, the one he¡¯d casually named Carver. But now, with a second spirit at his side, he hesitated. Would naming one over the other create some kind of favoritism? Not that they seemed to mind, but still. Colm scratched his head, chuckling to himself. "Guess you¡¯re just ¡®Warrior¡¯ and ¡®Spearman¡¯ for now¡­ don¡¯t want any jealousy," he joked, though he couldn¡¯t shake the thought of one day naming both his spectral allies. "I don¡¯t really know, buddy," he laughed softly, giving each a nod. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 15 Health: 320 / 320 Mana: 165 / 190 Strength: 20 Dexterity: 23 Intelligence: 38 Constitution: 32 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 4) - Phantom Spearman (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 5) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 3) - Stealth (Level 5) - Pain Resistance (Level 3) - Hardened Skin (Level 1) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) Achievements: - Through the Rift Satisfied with his updated status, Colm decided it was time to venture deeper into the grove in search of his next challenge. Chapter 9: Puzzles With his two spectral allies in tow, Colm spent the next few days exploring the Grove¡¯s depths. Along the way, he encountered more Fungal Goblins, and after several easy encounters, he gained two additional level-ups. Fungal Goblin (Level 20) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Fungal Goblin (Level 18) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Fungal Goblin (Level 21) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. ¡­ Fungal Goblin (Level 20) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. The fights were becoming routine¡ªalmost too easy. His Phantom Warrior and Phantom Spearman swiftly dispatched the goblins without him needing to lift a finger. "Maybe I made the wrong choice," Colm grumbled. "If this keeps up, I might get rusty." He paused, considering his next move. Maybe it was time to strengthen his abilities, too, just in case he ever faced a situation where his phantoms couldn¡¯t protect him. But he shoved the thought aside for now. "Focus on the immediate goals," he reminded himself. His priority was clearing this echo¡ªand hopefully finding some trace of civilization on the other side. As Colm continued along the path, the landscape shifted once more. Where he¡¯d recently struggled to navigate through a dense forest, now the trees grew sparse, giving him plenty of room to move. He wondered if he had somehow doubled back; the openness reminded him of the entrance. But just as he began second-guessing his direction, he spotted what appeared to be a temple up ahead. Intrigued, he pressed forward. Sticking to the shadows, he activated Stealth and circled the structure. It was smaller than he expected, about the size of a modest house. After scouting the perimeter and finding nothing suspicious, he approached the entrance, staying alert for anything lurking in the darkness. Inside, the air was thick, and everything lay shrouded in shadows, leaving him unable to make out any details. With a quick idea, Colm doubled back and gathered some of the Sunlit Petals he¡¯d spotted earlier. After a bit of experimentation, he discovered the petals kept their glow for a short time after being uprooted. Gathering a handful, he scooped up some of the surrounding soil as well, hoping it would extend their glow. They¡¯d make for a passable flashlight, at least. Returning to the temple, Colm entered cautiously, illuminating his way with the warm glow of the petals. The first room was plain¡ªa square space with smooth, featureless stone walls and a single door leading deeper into the temple. Running his fingers along the walls, he noted how unnaturally smooth the stone felt. "This doesn¡¯t seem natural... Maybe magic built it?" he muttered to himself. A soft glow at the center of the next room immediately drew Colm''s attention as he entered. A light shone down, illuminating a stone pillar in the middle of the otherwise bare chamber. He let out a small chuckle. "Well, this is obviously a trap. And I¡¯m all for it," he laughed, stepping forward with a mixture of caution and curiosity. Colm studied the pillar, planning his approach. His first thought was to send one of his phantoms ahead to test for any traps or triggers. Remaining in the first room with his Phantom Spearman, he instructed his Phantom Warrior to approach the pillar slowly, ready to dodge at any moment. Step by step, the Warrior crept closer, but nothing happened. Colm then directed the Warrior to touch the stone pillar. When that yielded no results, he had it strike the pillar. The blow landed with a heavy, resounding bang, but the pillar didn¡¯t even chip. "Huh," Colm muttered, a hint of disappointment in his voice. "Guess I can¡¯t cheat this with my class after all." He sulked momentarily, realizing he¡¯d need a more direct approach. Colm re-entered the room, slowly approaching the pillar, holding the glowing petals close to inspect it for abnormalities. Nothing seemed unusual at first. But as he crossed an invisible threshold, the pillar suddenly illuminated brighter, revealing strange symbols across its surface. He didn¡¯t recognize the script but immediately felt his Universal Language perk from his Through the Rift achievement kick in, and the symbols shifted before his eyes, forming a readable message. Those who offer blood unto the stone will be tested. If deemed strong, they will be rewarded.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. "That doesn¡¯t sound ominous at all," Colm chuckled. He glanced around the room, finding nothing out of the ordinary. "Well, in for a penny¡­" He shrugged, instructing his Phantom Warrior to make a small cut across his hand. Leaning toward the pillar, he let a few drops of blood fall onto the stone. The moment his blood made contact, the door behind him slammed shut, and the sound of skittering filled the room. He felt his pulse quicken, but a grin spread across his face as he muttered, "In for a pound¡­ or is that how the saying goes? Never actually said it before." Bracing himself, he stepped back, positioning himself between his two spectral allies, his grin widening as he prepared for whatever was coming.
"Of course, it¡¯s rats. Why wouldn¡¯t it be rats?" Colm yelled, skewering another Stone Rat with his wooden spear as it crumpled to the ground. He cast a quick glance at his Phantom Warrior and Phantom Spearman, watching them work seamlessly together, dispatching the rats with brutal efficiency. "They look like they¡¯ve fought countless battles together¡­ their synergy is incredible," he muttered, momentarily in awe. Stone Rat (Level 18) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Stone Rat (Level 20) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Stone Rat (Level 22) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Colm quickly lost track of time as the relentless onslaught continued. Stone Rats poured into the room from every corner, their claws scraping against stone and their eyes gleaming with a fierce, territorial hunger. Yet he felt no worry¡ªonly the thrill of testing his strength, the satisfaction of each enemy falling under his or his phantoms¡¯ strikes. With every defeated rat, he could feel his power growing, like a palpable energy coursing through his veins. His Phantom Warrior and Phantom Spearman moved with deadly precision, their spectral forms slashing and striking in perfect unison, clearing swathes of rats with every swing. The rhythmic flow of combat, with its skillful parries and counterstrikes, was truly captivating. He barely noticed the minor scrapes he picked up, completely immersed in the exhilarating rush each time a rat fell. Everything around him centered on the battle¡ªthe sounds of scraping, the fierce snarls, and the swift movements as he deftly dodged and struck, all while supported by his two loyal spectral allies, who stood by him unwaveringly. It was an adventure filled with excitement and a sense of purpose. What felt like hours eventually slowed, the endless skittering around him beginning to die down. Colm steadied his breath, his muscles humming with the remnants of adrenaline. The floor around him was littered with the motionless forms of Stone Rats, and silence returned to the room, broken only by his own ragged breathing. Colm opened his notifications, his heart pounding with satisfaction as he took in the results. Stone Rat (Level 19) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Stone Rat (Level 21) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Stone Rat (Level 24) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. ¡­ Stone Rat (Level 20) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Hardened Skin (Level 1) is now Hardened Skin (Level 2) Phantom Spearman (Level 1) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 2) Phantom Spearman (Level 2) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 3) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Colm glanced over his notifications, grinning. "Damn," he muttered, "I don¡¯t know how I¡¯d have survived this if I¡¯d picked any other class. These phantoms are the real MVPs¡ªkeeping those creatures at bay and letting me stay out of the worst of it." He looked down at his spear, noticing the sorry state it was in after the relentless onslaught. "Those hides were no joke. ¡®Stone rats¡¯ was definitely accurate," he said, shaking his head. "This spear¡¯s on its last legs." A surge of pride rose in him, knowing how much tougher he was becoming with every battle, but his satisfaction was cut short. A loud, booming crash echoed through the room, reverberating off the stone walls and making the floor tremble beneath him. Colm¡¯s grin faded, replaced by a flicker of unease as he looked up. A massive shadow filled the doorway, broad and hulking, blocking his only exit. His heart raced, and his grip on his spear tightened. He cast Analyze, hoping to get a read on whatever had just entered, feeling a new tension settle over him. Stone Gnawer (Level ??) Colm gritted his teeth. "I¡¯ve been getting too arrogant," he muttered, quickly refocusing his thoughts. He observed the creature¡ª Mutated Stone Rat, which was as large as a small car¡ªcarefully noting its size and power. He plotted a plan of attack while considering any possible escape routes, but the idea was quickly dismissed. The doorway was still shut; there would be no retreat. This would be a fight. He quickly repositioned his spirit allies, sending his Phantom Warrior forward to lead the charge while he stayed at the rear, watching the creature¡¯s every move. Without hesitation, Colm slammed all his newly earned attribute points into various stats, disregarding optimization¡ªthis was going to be a fight to the death, and he needed every advantage he could get. Chapter 10: Stone Gnawer As if on cue, the faint glow of the sunlit petals faded, leaving the room steeped in darkness, illuminated only by the dim light from the stone pillar, the eerie glow of his phantoms, and the faint yellow glint in the Stone Gnawer¡¯s eyes. "Yeah¡­ right in line with my luck," Colm muttered, inwardly frustrated. Should¡¯ve planned better for a light source. He kept his gaze fixed on the Stone Gnawer, tracking the creature¡¯s yellow eyes as it circled around the room, moving with disturbing intelligence. Its gaze darted between Colm and his phantoms, as if calculating who posed the biggest threat. They kept this tense dance for what felt like an eternity, each waiting for the other to make the first move. Colm hesitated, gripping his wooden spear tighter. Charging at a creature the size of a compact car with his flimsy weapon didn¡¯t feel like the wisest plan. He positioned his Phantom Warrior closest to himself, with the Phantom Spearman cautiously advancing, hoping to engage first and wear the creature down. Suddenly, the Stone Gnawer¡¯s eyes flared green, and Colm¡¯s instincts screamed a warning. Before he could react, pain lanced through his leg. "Damn it¡ªthe rat has magic!" he hissed, stumbling as his foot gave way. He looked down to see a spike of earth jutting up from the ground where he¡¯d been standing. He barely had a moment to register the attack before the Stone Gnawer lunged, charging straight past the Phantom Spearman. The Spearman managed a powerful thrust, briefly staggering the creature, but the rat¡¯s momentum carried it forward, barreling toward Colm. He braced himself, but just as it closed in, his Phantom Warrior threw itself between them, shoving Colm out of the way as it intercepted the creature. A system notification flashed in his vision. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. "Thanks for the save, buddy," Colm muttered, panting as he scrambled to his feet, grimacing from the pain in his leg. With a quick focus, he re-summoned the Phantom Warrior, bracing himself as the fight began in earnest. The Stone Gnawer staggered from its charge, but before it could fully recover, the Phantom Spearman was upon it, delivering powerful thrusts to wear it down. The Phantom Warrior circled to the side, striking with precise, calculated blows. Each hit made only a shallow mark on the rat¡¯s hide, which was tough as stone. Colm¡¯s eyes widened¡ªthis would not be easy. The creature¡¯s thick hide and high level made it a formidable opponent. Colm watched in awe as his phantoms moved in seamless tandem, coordinating their attacks to keep the creature off balance. But just as the Spearman was mid-thrust, the Stone Gnawer let out a furious swipe, catching the Spearman off guard. Its eyes flashed green, and Colm instinctively dodged, expecting another earth spike aimed at him¡ªbut this time, the creature directed its attack at his phantom. The spike impaled the Phantom Warrior, momentarily slowing it, giving the rat an opening to pounce. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. "Damn, this isn¡¯t good," Colm muttered, quickly re-summoning his spirits. A surge of frustration hit him. "I feel useless here¡­ sure, my spirits are my main abilities, but I need something of my own." The Stone Gnawer seized the brief lull as Colm re-summoned his allies, charging forward. Colm barely had time to dive ungracefully out of the way, landing on his stomach and rolling to the side just as the rat barreled past him, inches away. "Almost didn¡¯t react in time," he muttered, realizing how much focus the summoning had taken. But the danger wasn¡¯t over yet¡ªthe rat¡¯s eyes glowed green again, and Colm¡¯s stomach dropped. Before he could fully brace himself, pain shot through his shoulder as another earth spike struck. "Damn it!" Colm gasped, wincing. "If I hadn¡¯t moved, that could¡¯ve gone right through my heart." He clutched his shoulder, feeling blood drip out, eyes narrowing as he watched his phantoms reengage. This time, they moved with heightened caution, as if learning from their earlier mistakes. Each strike was more calculated, their movements swift yet guarded as they chipped away at the creature¡¯s defenses. Colm pushed down the pain, forcing himself to refocus. The fight was far from over, but he could feel his phantoms adapting to the challenge, their strikes more decisive as they pressed the attack. Colm took a quick moment to look at his status, and he was at 30% health with about 50% mana left. "This isn''t good. I''m almost tapped out." I have about four phantom summons left, and I can''t take another hit like that. As if reaching some kind of threshold, the Stone Gnawer let out a furious roar. Its eyes, which had been flashing between yellow and green, flared an ominous red, and Colm¡¯s heart lurched. "Shit, what does that mean?" he muttered, bracing himself. A rumbling sound filled the room, followed by the sharp crash of falling rocks¡ªlike a stone rainstorm.This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Realizing the danger, Colm quickly scanned his surroundings, making a dash toward the central pillar where the light was strongest. Dodging through the falling stones with ease with the additional light, he glanced back and winced as his phantoms weren¡¯t as fortunate. They continued their assault on the rat, but stray stones struck them as they fought. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. He dismissed the notifications, deciding to summon only his Phantom Warrior this time. Let¡¯s not get greedy, he reminded himself. As if on cue, the Stone Gnawer charged again, and with the few extra moments saved from summoning a single phantom, Colm dodged swiftly, sidestepping as the rat barreled past him. Noticing its eyes flickering green, he expected the next attack, leaping to avoid an incoming earth spike. "You¡¯re predictable. Swipe, charge, spike. And when you¡¯re mad, you throw a tantrum," he taunted. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. The moment the Warrior went to charge, Colm summoned his Spearman to follow up right behind. But the rat¡¯s speed caught the lone warrior off guard, overpowering it without the Phantom Spearman''s support. "Damn, I really need both of them in sync for this," he muttered, quickly re-summoning the Phantom Warrior to join the fight. With both phantoms back on the battlefield, Colm took a steadying breath, ready to push forward with a renewed focus. This was going to be a test of endurance, and he was determined to see it through. "I have little left in me. About enough mana for one more summon, but with how the warrior went down so quickly alone, it may not mean much," he said through gritted teeth. The Warrior and Spearman moved as if locked in a deadly dance, dodging and striking the enraged rat with the precision and synchronicity of a well-trained unit. It was as if an iron will to protect their master fueled them, each move sharper and more focused than the last. They seemed to know this was their final chance. The phantoms had learned the rat¡¯s patterns, and they worked flawlessly together¡ªone would slash and retreat while the other charged in, rolling aside to dodge the rat¡¯s deadly swipes and avoid its erupting earth spikes. Minutes passed in this tense, choreographed battle, and the Stone Gnawer began to slow. Colm watched in awe, fully alert and careful to dodge any stray attacks, knowing that he couldn¡¯t let his phantoms¡¯ efforts go to waste. Sensing its weakening position, the Stone Gnawer made a desperate move, casting all caution aside. With a furious growl, it locked its gaze on Colm and charged. "Looks like it¡¯s my turn," Colm muttered, bracing himself for the oncoming assault while his phantoms gave chase. But just as it seemed the creature was charging headlong, it abruptly halted, spun around with shocking speed, and lunged at the pursuing phantoms. The creature tore into the Phantom Warrior, dispatching it instantly, then turned on the Spearman, which could only hold its ground for a few moments before succumbing. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. "Damn it," Colm muttered, feeling the weight of the battle pressing down on him. With the last reserves of his mana, he summoned his Phantom Warrior one final time. "This is it, buddy," he said, gripping his weapon tighter as the phantom appeared beside him. "One last chance. I¡¯ve been standing back, being absolutely useless, this whole fight¡ªit¡¯s time I tag in." The rat¡¯s movements were sluggish, each wound slowing it further. Colm and his Warrior advanced together, both knowing this was the final stand; there would be no second chances after this. The Phantom Warrior lunged first, catching the rat off guard and driving its blade deep into the creature¡¯s thick hide. Colm followed, tightening his grip on his spear as he aimed for where he imagined its heart might be. His strike landed true, spear shattering in the process, but the rat thrashed wildly, knocking Colm back and flinging his phantom to the side. Pain jolted through Colm as he slammed into the wall. He barely had time to breathe before he saw the Stone Gnawer barrel toward him in a final, desperate charge. The Phantom Warrior intercepted, lunging into position and delivering a final, powerful blow. The creature let out a strangled roar as it collapsed, and a notification popped up in Colm¡¯s vision. Stone Gnawer (Level 44) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. [ Loot Acquired: Ring of the Stone Gnawer ] Forged from remnants of the Stone Gnawer, this rugged ring bears the creature¡¯s essence, granting resilience and endurance to the wearer. Pain Resistance (Level 3) is now Pain Resistance (Level 4) Hardened Skin (Level 2) is now Hardened Skin (Level 3) Phantom Spearman (Level 3) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 4) Phantom Spearman (Level 4) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 5) Phantom Spearman (Level 5) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 6) Phantom Warrior (Level 4) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 5) Phantom Warrior (Level 5) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 6) Phantom Warrior (Level 6) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 7) Lingering Vitality (Level 5) is now Lingering Vitality (Level 6) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Colm let out a shaky breath, gritting his teeth as he whispered, "We won." He glanced at his status screen, his vision blurring. Health: 8 / 390 Mana: 10 / 220 And then, as darkness closed in around him, everything faded. Chapter 11: Recovery Colm slowly opened his eyes, the darkness of the chamber settling around him. The body of the Stone Gnawer lay just before him, its massive form sprawled on the floor. His Phantom Warrior stood beside him, standing watch as if ready for anything else that might lurk nearby. Colm¡¯s victory tasted hollow. Despite the strength of his class, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of how helpless he¡¯d been during the fight. He¡¯d survived only thanks to his spectral allies, but the sight of a creature the size of a car charging at him with deadly intent had made him question his confidence. He couldn¡¯t keep relying only on his phantoms; he needed more durability. A shield ability or ability that would let him regenerate health in the heat of battle¡ªanything that would give him a better chance of surviving next time. His mind replayed the scene of his health bar dropping, his vision dimming, and a shiver ran through him. He¡¯d been treating this like a game ever since, realizing his class¡¯s strength, but this fight had brought the reality of it crashing down on him. I won''t allow myself to be surprised like that again. He vowed. Next time, I¡¯ll be ready. He looked through his notifications from the fight with the Stone Gnawer once more. Seeing the array of skill increases and levels gained brought a wave of satisfaction, and the Ring of the Stone Gnawer was a welcome reward. He slipped it onto his finger, feeling a subtle shift, a sense of new endurance settling into his bones. He remembered the scattered way he¡¯d dumped his points in the heat of the battle and, with a grin of determination, carefully allocated his new set of level-ups as he pulled up his status screen to see the results of his efforts, a fresh resolve settled within him. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 25 Health: 520 / 520 Mana: 290 / 290 Strength: 30 Dexterity: 33 Intelligence: 58 Constitution: 52 Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 7) - Phantom Spearman (Level 6) - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 6) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 3) - Stealth (Level 5) - Pain Resistance (Level 4) - Hardened Skin (Level 3) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) Achievements: - Through the Rift Colm closed his status screen and, feeling more stable upon seeing his health, re-summoned his Phantom Spearman. "This Lingering Vitality is pretty great¡­ I think," he muttered, still unsure. Without a frame of reference, it was hard to gauge how effective the regeneration truly was, though he noticed his health topped off quickly outside of combat. "Guess I¡¯ll have to ask someone if I ever find anyone around here," he said to himself.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. With his senses fully gathered again, he remembered the message on the stone pillar about a reward. Approaching it, he saw the inscription had changed. Thou has been tested and found worthy. Place your hand upon the stone to receive your reward. Colm hesitated, feeling the weight of the ordeal he¡¯d just endured. But after a moment, he shrugged. What else could this throw at me? He thought. Placing his hand on the stone, he felt a faint tingle radiate through his body, and a notification appeared before him. [ Achievement Earned Blessing of the Stone - You have passed the Trial of Stone and stood strong and steadfast. Your body has been refined and strengthened as if forged from stone. Stat Boost: Grants a 5% increase to constitution. ] Colm grinned. "It¡¯s not much now, but it¡¯ll only get better. A percentage buff? That¡¯s huge. Right now, it¡¯s like having half a level¡¯s worth of points dumped straight into constitution- hard to complain about that," he muttered with satisfaction.
With his new abilities unlocked and his phantoms by his side, Colm left the scene of the intense battle, making his way back to the first room of the temple. He paused, surprised¡ªthe room, which had been shrouded in deep shadow when he first entered, was now entirely illuminated, each wall casting a soft glow that outlined the room¡¯s rough stone edges. "How did I miss this on my way in?" he muttered, stepping cautiously toward the doorway. The instant he stepped back, the glow vanished, plunging the room into darkness once more. He chuckled to himself, shrugging. "Magic, I guess." Curiosity renewed, Colm turned back and stepped fully into the now-lit room, inspecting it. Apart from the softly glowing walls, it appeared as bare and unremarkable as before. Yet as he turned, his gaze settled on one wall that now bore an intricately detailed mural that hadn¡¯t been there when he¡¯d entered. He stepped closer, drawn to the mysterious artwork and its delicate carvings. The mural appeared as a map that depicted two structures, each crowned with a unique symbol. After a moment, Colm realized they were likely representations of temples. The structure on the left had a stone symbol above it¡ªfitting the temple he had just explored, given the trial and stone-related achievement he had just unlocked. The other structure was marked with a tree symbol, its branches spreading out as if to represent something wild, uncontained, and vibrant. Between these two symbols, there was a large, clawed paw print. The sight of it sent a chill down Colm¡¯s spine, triggering a memory of the claw marks he¡¯d seen at the abandoned campsite he¡¯d come across earlier. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder if this mysterious paw print represented a creature that guarded the paths between the temples. So, there is another temple here, he thought, each with its own unique challenges¡ªand perhaps more rewards to claim. The paw print marking was ominous, hinting that there was something powerful and territorial lurking between the temples. A roaming boss, maybe, or some guardian set to keep challengers from moving freely between the trials. Colm felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement; the temple¡¯s trial had proven to be intense, but the rewards were worth it. He felt his endurance and resilience growing, the ring he¡¯d earned from the Stone Gnawer snugly wrapped around his finger, reinforcing his stamina with every step. Standing in front of the mural, Colm carefully considered his next move. He decided it would be wise to locate the temple marked with the tree symbol and see what kind of test awaited him there. The paw print worried him, though. He¡¯d seen the damage a powerful creature could inflict on the unfortunate travelers who had been at the camp, and he didn¡¯t want to fall into the same fate. The thought of a large, clawed beast guarding the path was enough to make him shiver, but he steeled himself. If he wanted to survive in this strange world, he¡¯d need to keep growing stronger. He took another long look at the mural, trying to piece together a strategy. The stone and tree symbols were positioned on a straight path with the paw print between them. Colm didn¡¯t want to risk a direct route, especially if there was a territorial creature lurking in the middle. Instead, he devised a plan to make a wide, curving approach, looping around to avoid any potential dangers along the way. He¡¯d circle to the right, making a sweeping "C" path that would keep him on the lookout for signs of the other temple while avoiding a possible confrontation with the beast. Better cautious than dead, he thought, nodding to himself. With his plan set, he left the mural and headed out of the temple, ready to regroup and prepare. He would take a couple of days to rest, recover, and gather supplies before attempting to reach the other temple. Fortunately, he¡¯d found water nearby and had located patches of Celestial Blooms, which had become his "favorite" source of nourishment. As he made his way to a nearby clearing, Colm mulled over the thought of facing the beast he imagined lurking between the temples. He would need to be ready for anything; the encounter with the Stone Gnawer had shown him that even with his phantoms, he was far from invincible. He recalled the moments of panic, the near losses, and the realization that he needed to be better prepared for each battle. No more winging it, he resolved. I need to be ready with a solid plan next time. Settling down by a stream that ran through the clearing, Colm drank deeply and washed away the grime from his last fight. His phantom companions stood watch nearby, their spectral forms blending in with the mist that rose from the cool water. He sat for a while, processing his time through the stone temple¡¯s grueling trial. At the same time, he instructed his Phantom Warrior to carve out a new wooden spear for him. As he prepared to sleep, Colm glanced at the Ring of the Stone Gnawer, feeling a quiet satisfaction at the reward he¡¯d earned. The ring''s subtle warmth was a reminder of his growing resilience, a comfort against the unknown challenges he would face. His mind drifted back to the mural and the paw print symbol¡ªit loomed large in his thoughts, a symbol of both the danger and the rewards that this world held. The next morning, Colm awoke feeling a renewed sense of confidence, ready to set off on his planned route around the temple grounds. But as he mentally replayed his encounter with the Stone Gnawer, a familiar frustration crept in¡ªthe memory of how helpless he had felt during the fight. Even though he was physically recovered, he realized he needed more preparation. Deciding to delay his departure by a few days, he resolved to make use of the extra time by sharpening his skills with his phantoms. Chapter 12: Sparring Practice Colm got straight to work, determined to refine his own techniques. He wanted to be versatile, capable of holding his ground up close while also relying on his phantoms when needed. First, he sparred with his Phantom Warrior, a familiar but challenging opponent. Dodging and weaving through the Warrior¡¯s precise strikes, Colm pushed his Dexterity to its limit. "Looks like I still can¡¯t keep up with you," he muttered, frustration flickering in his mind. He realized that the Phantom Warrior¡¯s strength likely scaled with his Intelligence¡ªa stat he had heavily invested in. "Makes sense," Colm thought. "My highest stat is still intelligence, even though I''m trying to be well-rounded, and the phantoms are probably linked to that," Colm realized. Putting those thoughts aside, Colm refocused on the sparring match. The Phantom Warrior seemed to predict his every move, striking with an uncanny awareness of where Colm intended to dodge next. Colm evaded many of the Warrior¡¯s attacks, though he collected a few scrapes. After about ten rounds, he finally saw an opening. With a quick jab, he knocked the Warrior off balance, causing it to shimmer momentarily. "Hah, finally got ya," he grinned. But, as if sensing Colm¡¯s taunt, the Phantom Warrior surged forward with a renewed intensity, sweeping him off his feet and sending him flat on his back. It was a humbling reminder that the Warrior had been holding back. After resting a moment, Colm set his sights on his Phantom Spearman. Facing off against the Spearman, he couldn¡¯t help but think, I honestly don¡¯t know what I¡¯m doing with a spear. Until now, he¡¯d mostly been swinging wildly and hoping for the best. Watching the Spearman¡¯s stance, he noted its posture and mimicked it, trying to align himself with the form of his spectral counterpart. The Spearman seemed to watch him closely, waiting for Colm to make the first move. Taking a cautious step forward, Colm tried a feint to throw off his opponent. But the Spearman saw through it immediately and countered, ramming the blunt side of its spear into Colm¡¯s ribs. He doubled over, winded, and dropped to one knee. "Oof¡­ guess I walked right into that one," he groaned, rubbing his side. The sparring matches with his Phantom Spearman continued throughout the day as Colm worked tirelessly to refine his form, studying every movement and adjusting his stance to match his phantom¡¯s. During one encounter, Colm deflected a few of the Spearman''s strikes while holding his ground, and just then, a notification appeared. [ Skill Acquired ] Spear Mastery (Level 1) - Through repeated practice and battle, you have understood the art of the spear. This is just the start of a long journey, but your efficiency with spear-like weapons has improved, allowing for more precise strikes and better control. Colm felt a bead of sweat run down his face as he dismissed the notification with a satisfied smirk. "Now that makes it worth it," he muttered, gripping the spear with a newfound clarity. Adjusting his hands, he felt the grooves of the wood settle naturally into his palms as if the weapon were an extension of himself. He threw a reckless taunt toward his Spearman, mocking it to come at him. The phantom charged, and Colm felt more fluid this time, sidestepping the oncoming strike with ease. He thrust his spear forward, forcing the Spearman to dodge with a roll as if, for the first time, it had to exert itself to keep up truly. Emboldened, Colm pressed the attack, his movements relentless. Thrust, lunge, swipe¡ªeach motion was sharper than the last, and he waited, patiently probing, for an opening. Colm tried a feint once again, hoping to catch the Spearman off guard. Predictably, the Spearman saw through it, but this time, Colm was ready. He quickly shifted the feint into a genuine thrust, landing a solid hit that caused the phantom to flicker and almost fade. "Finally! I got a hit in," he said, grinning, but the victory was short-lived. The Spearman gripped Colm¡¯s spear, yanking him forward to deliver a powerful strike that sent him flying backward, crashing into a nearby tree. "Hah, I¡¯m still counting that as a win," Colm muttered through a pained grin as he staggered back to his feet, dusting himself off. "Alright, let¡¯s take a quick break. After that, I want to try something harder¡ªboth of you coming at me at once. I know I won¡¯t win, but I want to see how well I can defend two fronts." The Warrior and Spearman flickered with acknowledgment, and Colm felt his anticipation rising. Over the next few days, Colm settled into a steady routine. Each morning, he¡¯d eat his fill of Celestial Blooms, drink from the nearby stream, and spend hours sparring with his Phantom Warrior and Phantom Spearman. At first, their teamwork was overwhelming; Colm couldn¡¯t stand his ground reliably, barely dodging their combined assault. It was as if they sensed his struggle, instinctively toning down their attacks to give him a fighting chance. The sparring allowed him to focus on handling multiple fronts¡ªdodging a swipe here, rolling away from a thrust there. But in the beginning, all he could manage was evasion, and he could not even consider landing a counterattack. As the hours passed, Colm¡¯s determination never wavered. He started noticing patterns in their movements, studying their attacks, and learning to anticipate each strike. The spirits were holding back, but Colm pushed himself to learn whatever he could. Gradually, session after session, he found opportunities to weave his attacks into his evasive maneuvers, honing his reactions and timing. And as if responding to his progress, his phantoms intensified their efforts, forcing him back onto the defensive and upping the stakes once more.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. This cycle continued relentlessly. Colm knew he wanted his instincts sharpened to a razor¡¯s edge, his responses automatic and unhesitating. He thought of his life back on Earth, where his biggest worries were meeting deadlines and planning his next weekend. Here, he was transforming himself in a way he¡¯d never imagined. It was a trial by fire, and though exhausting, he welcomed it with open arms. For the first time in his life, he felt truly alive. "I know a few days of practice aren¡¯t enough to change a lifetime of cushioned living into battle-ready instincts," he murmured, catching his breath on a log near the stream after a grueling match. "But it¡¯s a start." He leaned back, looking up at the canopy, thinking how lucky he¡¯d been to choose Spirit Warden. The class had granted him a unique advantage¡ªa forgiving edge that allowed him to make mistakes without immediate consequences. When he faltered, his phantoms compensated, covering his weaknesses as he adapted. Their battle-hardened movements were something he could learn from; they felt like warriors from a past era, lending him experience and techniques that he could use to lay the groundwork for his future. Gazing down at his spear, he felt a new confidence solidifying. The recent acquisition of Spear Mastery confirmed that he was on the right path. He didn¡¯t have a true mentor, but he was slowly crafting himself into one. Colm knelt beside the stream, cupping his hands and drinking deeply, savoring the cool water as it quenched his thirst. After a moment, he glanced down at his reflection on the rippling surface, the state of his clothes more apparent than ever. What had once been a simple outfit was now a collection of frayed rags barely clinging to him. "I need some new clothes," he muttered, tugging at a tattered sleeve. He couldn¡¯t help but frown, but then he noticed something else: his reflection revealed not just his worn clothes but the changes in his body beneath them. Where he¡¯d once been lean but unremarkable, weeks of survival in the wild had left their mark. His muscles were more defined, his shoulders stronger, and there was a hardened look about him he didn¡¯t recognize. Back on Earth, he wasn''t particularly strong; he¡¯d kept himself somewhat athletic, but had always found himself a few steps behind the stronger, faster people around him. As he reflected on it, a sigh escaped him. "I let life spiral for a while there, didn¡¯t I?" he murmured to his reflection. It wasn¡¯t just his physical fitness that had faded; relationships, family, and goals¡ªeach had drifted away as he sank into a cycle of monotony and half-hearted ambitions. A pang of regret surfaced, raw and unexpected, as he thought about everything he¡¯d let slip. But here, in this strange new reality, it was different. He¡¯d already become stronger, faster, and more capable than ever, each hardship sharpening his abilities and making him into someone he barely recognized. For the first time in years, he felt in control of his path forward. His reflection stared back at him, eyes determined, and he resolved right then that he wouldn¡¯t let himself drift into complacency again. If anything, this world had taught him the value of resilience, and he planned to hold on to it. Testing his strength, he spent the next hour pushing his limits¡ªsprinting through the forest, lifting stones along the streambed¡ªcurious to see what he was now capable of. Only the largest boulders gave him any actual struggle, and the exertion left him energized rather than exhausted. Back on Earth, a run like that would¡¯ve left me winded, he thought, grinning. It''s amazing how quickly my body changed. Colm turned back to the sparring area, steeling himself for the next round. "I won¡¯t fall short again like I did with the Stone Gnawer," he muttered with resolve, stepping forward to continue his sessions with his spectral allies. Each day, he felt his instincts sharpening, his confidence growing. Finally, after settling into his routine, Colm felt truly prepared for the next leg of his journey. He laid out his plan, muttering to himself, "Find the temple, slay the beast, leave the grove, find civilization." A broad outline, maybe, but a plan. A few days later, feeling stronger and more focused, Colm reviewed his progress. Though he had gained no levels, the improvements were clear, especially in his new Spear Mastery skill. He¡¯d been rooting out old, careless habits, refining his technique, and building a solid foundation for the challenges ahead. Taking one last look at his spectral allies, Colm nodded, ready to set off. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 25 Health: 520 / 520 Mana: 290 / 290 Strength: 30 Dexterity: 33 Intelligence: 58 Constitution: 52 (54) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 7) - Phantom Spearman (Level 6) - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 6) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 3) - Stealth (Level 5) - Pain Resistance (Level 4) - Hardened Skin (Level 3) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) - Spear Mastery (Level 3) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Blessing of the Stone With his final preparations underway, Colm instructed his Phantom Warrior to carve a new spear from a nearby branch. "I really need a proper weapon," he muttered as he watched the warrior whittle the wood down with smooth, practiced strokes. "I¡¯m tiring of relying on these makeshift spears... but I guess it¡¯s better than nothing." When the warrior finished, Colm took a few practice swings, noting with satisfaction how uniform the spear felt. The Phantom Warrior had clearly refined its technique over the days, and this spear felt almost balanced. The weight was familiar in his hands, a testament to how many times they¡¯d repeated this process during his time here. Satisfied with his equipment and with his phantoms at his side, he set off in the direction of the temple marked by the tree symbol. Each step filled him with a renewed sense of readiness. He didn¡¯t know what challenges awaited him, but this time, he felt prepared in a way he hadn¡¯t before, both mentally and physically. The Grove stretched out before him, and he felt a flicker of anticipation rise within him as he ventured into the unknown, determined to face whatever lay ahead. Chapter 13: Trek Colm began his trek deeper into the Grove, settling into a brisk, steady run that his boosted constitution and dexterity made easy to maintain. His phantoms flanked him, silent shadows as he went along his route. How far should I arc around to avoid whatever left those claw marks at the camp? He wondered, adjusting his path to keep a safe distance from what he suspected was the creature¡¯s territory. Ahead, his Phantom Spearman led the way, moving steadily through the thick underbrush. Its silent presence was reassuring¡ªa reliable first line of defense against any threats hidden in the dense shadows. Colm headed a few miles west before turning north, his mind lingering on the reason for his detour. The dried blood back at the campsite was a stark reminder of the beast¡¯s presence¡ªa warning he couldn¡¯t ignore. Keeping his senses sharp, he attuned himself to every rustle in the underbrush, every flicker of movement in the trees. Along the way, he passed small clusters of wildlife and the occasional Blossom Beetle, most too low-level to warrant his attention. A few scattered Fungal Goblins emerged, their appearance more of a nuisance than a threat. Still, he sent his phantoms to dispatch them swiftly, unwilling to leave even minor dangers lurking nearby. Though the goblins offered little in the way of experience, the sense of security with them gone was worth the effort. Fungal Goblin (Level 17) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 19) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 16) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 20) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 23) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Scrolling through the notifications, he noted with a sigh that it looks like anything below my level doesn¡¯t yield experience anymore. He supposed it was a reasonable way to prevent higher-level individuals from easily wiping out weaker creatures for easy gains. I mean, I¡¯ll keep thinning the goblin numbers for safety, he thought, but I wonder if there¡¯s any unseen consequence to what I¡¯m doing. As he continued, a new idea crossed his mind. If I could extend my phantoms¡¯ range, they could be out gaining experience for me even while I¡¯m resting, he mused. The concept was exhilarating. Imagine the constant leveling, an autonomous patrol of spirits handling minor threats while I focus on bigger goals. He could see it already¡ªan army of spectral allies covering the ground while he continued honing his own abilities. If that kind of reach is possible, I might just build an army, he resolved, adding the thought to his list of potential upgrades to pursue. The thought of building a spectral army stirred memories of his life on Earth. Seeing things through, be it a project or a complex task, came naturally to him¡ªhe always enjoyed taking charge. He had always found it natural to guide others and lead his peers, but he had never been one to delegate. He preferred to be hands on, right in the thick of things, combining strategy with action. That¡¯s my path here, he realized, feeling a glimmer of purpose. I don¡¯t need an army¡ªI¡¯d rather have a small, high-functioning team. He imagined an elite squad of phantoms at his side, each one shoring up his weaknesses, enhancing his strengths, and responding in perfect sync. A team of my making, with my phantoms covering the gaps in my abilities. The image of these loyal allies¡ªextensions of his own will and skill¡ªfilled him with resolve. I want to fight alone without relying on anyone else, he thought, but with abilities, I can trust at my back. I¡¯m not against working with others; in fact, I enjoy it. Colm continued his train of thought, moving steadily through the Grove. But there¡¯s something different about this world, something uniquely satisfying about what I¡¯ve earned. He looked down at his hands, feeling a quiet pride. This is real, tangible progress¡ªearned with my own two hands. He pushed a low-hanging branch aside, his mind shifting to the idea of civilization. I want to find other people¡ªnot to rely on them, but to learn about this world, to fill in the gaps in my knowledge, and to make meaningful relationships. He imagined the thrill of picking up new insights, maybe even skills that could strengthen him. But, ultimately, he knew what he wanted most. Then I can get back to what I crave¡ªthe thrill of a fight, the rush of testing my abilities, and watching my skills in action. Colm¡¯s lips curved into a slight grin as he continued. Nothing else compares to that. I''ll find a place to call my home while seeking greater heights. A notification blinked into his vision, a result of his spectral allies¡¯ efforts. Fungal Goblin (Level 23) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm chuckled. "Guess that¡¯s another one down," he murmured. But he quickly refocused, forcing his mind back to the task at hand¡ªone step at a time. First, I need to find my way out of the Echo, he reminded himself, glancing back the way he¡¯d come. He considered retracing his steps all the way to the entrance. The memory of that shimmering portal-like doorway flickered in his mind, stirring a small spark of confidence. Compared to his first panicked arrival, he was vastly stronger now, with his phantoms at his side, ready to tackle any undead swarm that might cross his path. He could turn back, find civilization, and cut his losses here. But he quickly dismissed the idea. He remembered the initial notification about the Echo, mentioning "rare and valuable rewards" for those who cleared it. I¡¯ve got nowhere else to be, he thought, already feeling the thrill of the challenge returning. Sure, leaving would mean a safer route to find others, but the rewards he¡¯d seen so far hinted at more potential power than he¡¯d ever dreamed of. The blessing from the Temple of Stone was invaluable as it would only grow stronger, and he couldn¡¯t ignore the possibility of what might await him if he cleared the entire Echo. If I take on the tree temple and then the beast, maybe that¡¯s what it takes to clear this place. The Grove itself felt strangely still, almost eerie in its quiet. Nothing here feels like a threat anymore, he mused, the shadows familiar, the terrain predictable. So far, the only genuinely aggressive creatures in the massive forests had been the Fungal Goblins and Blossom Beetles, and he wondered if that was all there was to face. Has it really just been those two creatures this whole time? I''ve seen wildlife things that look like bunnies, squirrels, and other things, but no other monsters. A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Time felt blurred, blending into a continuous rhythm as he continued on his journey. Between gathering his bearings, grinding against foes, and recovering from the temple¡¯s trials, he guessed it might have been a month¡ªmaybe even two. A pang of sadness crept into his thoughts. I wonder if anyone¡¯s even noticed I¡¯m gone, he thought, feeling the weight of both loss and newfound purpose, each stirring him forward deeper into the Grove. A pang of longing crept into his thoughts. I wonder if anyone¡¯s noticed I¡¯m gone, he thought, a bit of sadness shadowing his resolve. I haven¡¯t had a proper conversation with friends in months, Colm thought, a hint of bitterness creeping in. Sure, I¡¯d send the occasional meme just to keep things feeling somewhat alive, but it was all surface-level, with no actual connection. He sighed, realizing how long it had been since he¡¯d truly grown closer to anyone. And family? He shook his head. No one¡¯s going to think of me during the holidays. If anyone noticed he was gone, his work would be the reason¡ªmaybe they would send him a formal email saying he was fired for missing deadlines. He let out a dry laugh. Shaking himself from his thoughts, he adjusted his path, deciding he¡¯d veered far enough west. Turning north, he continued for most of the day before angling east again, hoping to stumble upon something new finally. After a long, steady journey, he thought he saw a change in the trees up ahead. Heart racing, he quickened his pace, anticipation building¡ªonly to find nothing¡ªjust more endless forest stretching in every direction. Colm¡¯s heart sank, and he let out a frustrated sigh. "Well, shit. I guess I¡¯m lost."
"Really thought I was onto something with that plan¡­ and that mural," Colm grumbled, sitting down to chew on some Celestial Blooms. I guess I¡¯ll stick with my tried-and-true method of wandering until I find something. He glanced at his spectral allies, both silently waiting for his next move. "I do not know where the clawed beast could be, and I can¡¯t just keep tiptoeing around it forever," he muttered, as if expecting a reply. "I know we planned to hit the temple first, but if we run into that thing, maybe we¡¯ll just face it head-on." He smirked, feeling a surge of adrenaline. "Guess it¡¯s time to work on my cardio again." With that, Colm set off, his phantoms trailing behind him, both silent sentinels on his winding path. Over the course of what felt like two weeks, Colm wandered through the Grove, his path increasingly aimless. By now, he could¡¯ve sworn he¡¯d explored every corner of the Grove, even retracing his steps back to where he¡¯d first arrived. Yet, despite his efforts, he still had uncovered nothing new. At least the abundance of Celestial Blooms kept me fed¡ªwithout them, I would¡¯ve starved long ago. I¡¯ve analyzed almost everything in this forest, he thought, forcing down another bland mouthful. Nothing else has any nutritional value. He sighed, chewing slowly as the monotony of the taste set in. "I¡¯d kill for a bit of seasoning," he muttered, his appetite waning with each bite. After eating his fill, he continued onward and soon stumbled upon a small scattering of goblins. Colm yanked his spear from the latest victim, feeling a mounting irritation as he glanced over the notifications. He¡¯d stopped relying on his phantoms to fight these creatures, preferring to handle them himself¡ªa way to let out his frustration and keep his skills sharp. Fungal Goblin (Level 24) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 16) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 23) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 19) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 14) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 16) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Fungal Goblin (Level 23) Defeated. No Experience Gained. "FUCK! I¡¯m so done with these goblins," he growled, slamming his foot into a nearby tree. With his enhanced strength, the trunk cracked and splintered on impact. "I¡¯ve had it with this place. I¡¯ve been running in circles for over a week, getting nowhere. Fuck this Grove, fuck these blooms, fuck this silence. It¡¯s all driving me insane!" The frustration boiled over. "I need answers! Actual people, actual voice, real interaction. I can¡¯t keep playing this game on my own, trying to be calm and patient¡ªI¡¯m losing it!" His voice echoed through the Grove as he rampaged, kicking tree after tree until several toppled, thudding against the forest floor with reverberating crashes. His phantoms stood silently nearby, shadows in his fury. Colm sank to the ground, letting the frustration drain from him. He muttered, "I really am losing it," as he pressed his face into his hands. "I don¡¯t know if I can keep this up. I¡¯m just tired." He took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. I just need to breathe, to think clearly, he reminded himself. I can come up with a plan, find my way out, and maybe even circle back to the entrance. Not that I even know which way that is anymore. He was still gathering himself when, suddenly, a notification blurred into his vision. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. "What?" Colm muttered, snapping upright. In his frustration, he hadn¡¯t noticed where his phantoms were. Only one thing could have wiped them out so fast. His mind sharpened. "Looks like I found the clawed beast... or it found me," he murmured, instantly regretting his earlier outburst. He quickly scanned the area, heart pounding, and re-summoned his phantoms. The familiar drain of mana washed over him as they reappeared by his side, ready for battle. Just as the second one solidified, he heard a faint rustling off to the left. He pivoted, spear raised, but saw only the quivering leaves of dense shrubbery. This isn¡¯t good, he thought. I¡¯m not ready. I lost my phantoms before the fight even started, and I used up mana to get them back. He clenched his jaw. I would like more time and a better setup. This is happening whether or not I¡¯m ready. Depending on how it goes, I may need to run. Colm¡¯s mind raced, trying to calculate the best path of escape. To his right, he spotted a narrow, partially clear route. He marked it in his mind, staying hyper-alert. It felt like hours had passed, but he knew it had only been minutes. "I know it¡¯s still here," he muttered under his breath. "It¡¯s playing with me." Just as that thought crossed his mind, a sudden rustle sounded from behind him. He pivoted, spinning as fast as he could, but it wasn¡¯t fast enough. In a split second, his Phantom Spearman reacted, sweeping Colm¡¯s legs out from under him. The unexpected move caused him to fall, just barely avoiding the creature¡¯s attack. As he hit the ground, another notification flared into his vision. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. "This is not going well," Colm muttered, quickly resummoning his Phantom Warrior while his Spearman moved defensively between him and the newly visible creature. The creature was as massive as the Stone Gnawer, but far more striking. Its sleek, panther-like form glowed with a mystical green aura, intricate markings etched across its fur like ancient runes. Despite its breathtaking beauty, it exuded an even greater menace¡ªgleaming fangs, massive claws, and a predatory gaze that locked onto Colm with unnerving intensity. His heart sank. He hadn¡¯t anticipated facing something this fierce so soon. I can take this on¡­ but not now, he thought, his mind racing. I need the upper hand for this fight¡ªnot the other way around. Steeling himself, Colm nodded to his phantoms, his focus already shifting. Change of plans. Let¡¯s hope I can make it to that temple first. ?? (Level ??) "What?" he whispered, shock creeping into his voice. "Analyze didn¡¯t show anything¡­ either it¡¯s got some kind of resistance, or it¡¯s just that far above my level." His mind raced, the reality of the creature¡¯s strength sinking in. This is bad. I need to get out of here. I know I''ve been wanting a fight, but I also need to be smart and live another day. Glancing around, Colm weighed his options, his phantoms at the ready with weapons raised. Chapter 14: Frantic Escape It''s time to flee, Colm thought, as he sent a mental command for his phantoms to charge the beast. Colm followed closely behind, feigning an advance of his own to bolster their attack. As the Phantom Spearman reached the creature, it lunged forward with a fierce thrust, its spear aimed precisely at the beast¡¯s torso. The Phantom Warrior was right behind, following up with a mighty swing. But the beast barely acknowledged the assault; with a swift leap backward, it evaded both strikes effortlessly. Letting out a guttural roar, it seemed to mock their futile attempt, its eyes glinting with a feral, taunting intelligence. Colm gulped. "This is going to be tough. It¡¯s faster than me, stronger than me¡ªand my phantoms aren¡¯t enough. I need to join the fray." He directed his phantoms to circle around, but the beast barely glanced at them, its gaze cold and dismissive, as if daring Colm to make a move. Colm moved in cautiously, closing the distance with his two phantoms to form a loose triangle around the creature. Together, they all stepped forward in unison, attempting to close in and overwhelm it. But the beast did nothing. It stood there, watching, almost as if waiting to see if its prey would prove worthy of a fight. The Phantom Spearman reached the beast first, driving its spear forward in a powerful thrust. The beast dodged the strike with ease, and as Colm followed up, he thought he caught a glint of mockery in its eyes. With a single swipe of its massive claws, the beast shattered Colm¡¯s wooden spear, snapping it in two. Before Colm could fully grasp what had happened, the Phantom Warrior lunged in, swinging its sword toward the beast''s extended claw. The beast retracted its arm with astonishing speed, but not fast enough to avoid the blade¡¯s edge¡ªit grazed the beast''s forearm, drawing a shallow cut. The beast roared, its fury ignited by the mere fact of being wounded. With shocking speed, it pounced on the Phantom Warrior, sinking its massive fangs into the spectral form. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Colm dismissed the notification with a quick glance, panting. "Now¡¯s my chance," he muttered, sprinting toward the path he¡¯d noted mentally earlier. Seizing the brief opening to escape, he summoned his Phantom Warrior once more to cover his retreat while the Spearman trailed close by his side, ready for anything. The creature, satisfied with destroying the warrior, looked enraged as the phantom reappeared, defiant once more. At that moment, Colm directed his Phantom Warrior to hover at the edge of the abilities range, putting as much distance as possible between himself and the beast while using the phantom to taunt it. "This should buy me some time," Colm muttered through shallow breaths, sprinting as fast as he could. His goal was simple: escape, regroup, and return stronger. It was a desperate, chaotic dance. Colm ran with everything he had, the Spearman flanking him to cover any slip-ups while the Phantom Warrior distracted the relentless creature trailing behind. Forced to keep up with Colm¡¯s pace, the warrior couldn¡¯t maintain a solid combat stance, and time after time, the panther-like beast landed swipes the phantom couldn¡¯t dodge or parry. Colm lost count of how many times the notification flashed¡ªYour Phantom Warrior has been destroyed¡ªonly for him to re-summon it instantly. Each attempt drained his mana further but bought him just enough time to keep running. The frantic cycle continued, a dizzying rhythm of sprinting, re-summoning, and evading, all while Colm worried his mana regeneration couldn¡¯t keep up with the relentless pace. Desperately, he fought to stay one step ahead of the creature, hoping against hope to lose it finally. "I didn¡¯t know I could run this fast for this long," Colm panted as the chase continued. "If I weren¡¯t running for my life, I¡¯d almost be impressed." Somehow, he found humor in the absurdity of it all. "Will this beast ever stop? It feels like it¡¯s just toying with me now. I swear it has a personal vendetta against my Phantom Warrior¡ªit¡¯s killed it so many times I¡¯ve lost count." I can¡¯t keep this up forever, he thought, his mind racing. Eventually, I¡¯m going to slip up or run out of options. I need to turn the tide and buy myself some breathing room. He pushed forward, weaving through a dense thicket of trees, hoping to gain even the slightest advantage. As Colm pushed through the brush, he caught sight of a unique patch of terrain off to the right¡ªa natural choke point where twisted trees wrapped around the stone. "This might be the best opportunity I¡¯ll get," he muttered, veering toward it. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. "Damn it," he hissed through gritted teeth, but he kept his pace, re-summoning the Phantom Warrior as he sprinted toward the rocky terrain. Reaching the narrow passage, he squeezed through the tight space, barely allowing him to fit. As he shimmied forward, he directed his Warrior and Spearman to stand guard at the entrance, buying him precious seconds to move further in. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. "Hopefully, I¡¯m safe in here," he whispered, his breath ragged as he pressed through the narrow gap, his heart pounding as he strained to listen for the creature. He could barely turn his head, but out of the corner of his eye, he saw a menacing, gleaming eye fixed on him through the narrow passage, followed by a furious, guttural roar that echoed off the stone walls. "Good thing I¡¯m not claustrophobic," he chuckled weakly. "Looks like I might be in here for a while."
As Colm shimmied forward through the crevice, he heard the creature behind him swiping, scraping, and thrashing against the stones wedged among the twisted trees. For the first time, a sense of calm washed over him, and he allowed himself a moment to catch his breath. I don¡¯t think it can reach me. I¡¯m safe for now. He let out a long exhale he hadn¡¯t realized he was holding, his shoulders slumping despite the jagged stone pressing against him from all sides. With a steadying breath, he pulled up his status screen and assess the toll this relentless chase had taken on him. Health: 432 / 520 Mana: 128 / 290 Fortunately, the beast never landed a solid hit on me¡ªit was too focused on my Phantom Warrior. Still, I¡¯m under half mana. That was cutting it close, he thought, continuing his mental assessment. Most of the time, my warrior held out just long enough for my mana to regenerate. He made a mental note to test his exact regeneration rate later. Satisfied with his quick check, he closed his status screen and considered his next move. Colm craned his neck again, and he caught sight of the creature furiously swiping into the crevice, its claws scraping against the stone just out of reach. He couldn¡¯t help but smirk, a slight sense of satisfaction settling over him. He¡¯d outwitted the relentless beast, at least for now. "You were relentless, you bastard," he muttered. "The only way you¡¯re getting me now is if you magically teleport in here¡ªor pull something like the Stone Gnawer." He chuckled under his breath. "Lucky for me, you seem a bit too focused on brute force over magic." Wait, Colm thought. Teleporting on top of me? Could I do that with my phantoms? I¡¯ve only ever summoned them next to me. Quickly, he pulled up the descriptions of his abilities: Active Ability: Phantom Warrior (Level 7) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral warrior to aid you in combat, engaging enemies in close-range melee attacks with powerful, precise strikes. Only one Phantom Warrior can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current warrior. Active Ability: Phantom Spearman (Level 6) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral spearman to aid you in combat, who wields a long spear and is effective for keeping enemies at a distance. The Spearman delivers powerful thrusts that can push back enemies, making it useful for maintaining control over the battlefield. Only one Phantom Spearman can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current spearman. It doesn¡¯t specify a set summoning distance, Colm realized. I know I can control them within about 80 feet¡ªbut maybe I can summon them right on top of this thing. Colm¡¯s mind raced. If I can summon one directly above the creature, it might give me the edge I need. With enough mana for five summons, this could be my chance. He steadied himself, gathering his focus while the creature continued to thrash outside the crevice. Calm and calculated, he reminded himself. Taking a slow breath, he twisted as much as the narrow space allowed, just enough to get a line of sight on the beast. Focusing on the space above the creature, Colm activated his Phantom Warrior ability. He watched as the spectral warrior faded into existence directly above the beast. Trusting his warrior to engage on its own, Colm quickly shifted his focus to the ground beneath the creature and summoned his Phantom Spearman. As the Spearman¡¯s form materialized, the Phantom Warrior completed its fall, plunging down onto the creature¡¯s back with its sword outstretched. The blade pierced the beast¡¯s spine, cutting clean through its thick hide. The panther-like creature let out a furious, pained roar, thrashing wildly to dislodge the warrior from its back. At that precise moment, the Spearman fully appeared, driving a powerful thrust into the creature¡¯s gut. The impact forced the beast to stumble, momentarily shifting its attention to the new threat. With a swift, enraged swipe of its razor-sharp claws, it tore through the Spearman, dissipating it instantly. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. As the spearman vanished, the beast turned its attention back towards the warrior. Colm acted quickly, resummoning the spearman behind it. With a mental command, he directed it to target the creature''s legs. "We might not kill it outright," he muttered, "but we can still slow it down, maybe even cripple it." The beast thrashed violently, desperate to shake the warrior off its back, but the phantom held firm, twisting the spectral blade deeper into its flesh, drawing a furious roar. Meanwhile, the newly summoned spearman advanced, slipping into position for a precise strike at the beast¡¯s left hind leg. With a swift thrust, the spear pierced through muscle and bone, and the creature bellowed in agony as it stumbled, collapsing under its own weight. The warrior leaped from the beast¡¯s back just as the spearman drove in for another blow. The beast swiped sluggishly at the phantoms, but its claws missed, slicing only through the air. The two phantoms moved in unison, their weapons striking down on the creature¡¯s outstretched paw, severing it completely. A primal, furious roar erupted from the beast, the force of its anger so intense that Colm felt briefly disoriented. Before he could gather himself, a notification flashed across his vision. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. As Colm gritted his teeth. He had enough mana for just two more summons, and then he¡¯d be spent. As he weighed his next move, the beast¡¯s enraged eyes locked onto him, its body trembling as it struggled to stand up on its mangled limbs, blood seeping from the wounds left by the phantoms. "You should¡¯ve taken me out when you had the chance," Colm taunted. The creature snarled, baring its fierce fangs, radiating an unyielding will to fight. Its brute strength and savage determination were undeniable. By sheer luck alone, Colm had survived this long, dodging and hiding, even wedging himself into a narrow crevice when to survive. "Your mistake was trying to toy with me," he continued. "It gave me time to learn more about my abilities. This ends now." Chapter 15: Ending the Beast Colm inched out of the crevice, hoping to make the beast second-guess his next move. Its rage-filled gaze remained fixed on him, but Colm continued his plan, summoning the Phantom Spearman and positioning it to drive a spear straight through the creature¡¯s skull. As his mana drained, Colm stumbled slightly, and the beast noticed, going instantly alert. It saw the descending spearman and shifted its weight just in time, taking the blow to its shoulder instead of its head. Recovering quickly, Colm activated his Phantom Warrior ability to appear beneath the beast, aiming for its other massive paw as it staggered from the spearman¡¯s strike. The warrior phased in and delivered a quick, devastating blow to the paw, slicing deeply before rolling clear to avoid retaliation. Now, the spearman and the warrior stood ready, poised for their last stand. Reeling from its injuries, the beast barely held on, but its determination refused to falter. It advanced toward the phantoms, and instinctively, they split up, flanking the creature on both sides. The beast lunged and swiped at one phantom, only for it to dodge and counter, while the phantom from behind struck true, drawing another pained roar from the creature. Enraged and losing all sense of strategy, it whirled to target the attacker from behind, mindless and furious. Using the distraction, Colm slipped quietly out of the crevice. If my phantoms fall, I¡¯ll have to finish it myself, he thought, creeping closer with every step. Pushing his Stealth to the limit, he inched toward the beast¡¯s severed paw. Those claws are sharp, but I¡¯ll need to be beside it to use them. Hopefully, it won¡¯t come to that¡ªbut I need to be ready. He climbed into a nearby tree, positioning himself above, and signaled his phantoms to lure the beast closer to the tree with their attacks. The phantoms responded, pulling the creature into position as Colm readied himself above for the last strike. Colm observed the battle below, his thoughts sharp with tension. One misstep and my phantoms will be destroyed. Even though the beast is slowing, there¡¯s still incredible power behind each swipe, he thought. His phantoms moved carefully, dodging each brutal swing, knowing that a single hit could end them. Just as the Phantom Warrior struck the beast¡¯s flank once more, it unleashed a loud guttural roar that made Colm feel disoriented. Not again, he thought, gripping the branch with sheer determination as his phantoms faltered, momentarily stunned by the roar. His eyes narrowed as the beast turned toward the spearman, ready to strike. It¡¯ll overextend with this swipe¡ªit¡¯ll be vulnerable. As if on cue, the beast swung sluggishly at the staggered spearman. Colm seized the moment, leaping from the tree with the beast¡¯s severed paw clenched tightly in his hand, each claw poised like a dagger. He landed squarely on the creature¡¯s skull, driving the claws deep into its head with every ounce of strength. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. With a final, shuddering gasp, the beast collapsed, its massive form going still and lifeless. "We did it¡­" Colm whispered through ragged breaths. Seeing a flood of new notifications cloud his vision. [ Skill Acquired ] Sprint Mastery (Level 1) - Through sheer will and unrelenting speed, you¡¯ve pushed yourself to run faster and longer than you thought possible. Your endurance and agility have reached new heights. Sprinting now consumes less stamina, allowing you to maintain speed with greater ease. Sprint Mastery (Level 1) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 2) Sprint Mastery (Level 2) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 3) Sprint Mastery (Level 3) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 4) Sprint Mastery (Level 4) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 5) Sprint Mastery (Level 5) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 6) Sprint Mastery (Level 6) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 7) Sprint Mastery (Level 7) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 8) Sprint Mastery (Level 8) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 9) Sprint Mastery (Level 9) is now Sprint Mastery (Level 10) Phantom Spearman (Level 6) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 7) Phantom Spearman (Level 7) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 8) Phantom Warrior (Level 7) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 8) Phantom Warrior (Level 8) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 9) Stealth (Level 5) is now Stealth (Level 6) Grove Stalker (Level 50) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. [ Achievement Earned ]If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Blessing of the Wilds - You have endured the relentless onslaught of the Grove Stalker, surviving its fury and ferocity. Whether by sheer luck or skill, you have proven your resilience and earned the respect of the wilds. Stat Boost: Grants a 5% increase to dexterity. [ Loot Acquired: Claw of Grove Stalker ] A remnant of the fearsome Grove Stalker, this claw pulses with primal energy, imbued with the creature¡¯s fierce survival instincts. Its sharpened edge and latent power make it ideal for weapon crafting, carrying with it the wild strength of the stalker¡¯s spirit. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available.
Colm collapsed to the ground, breathing heavily as he processed the flood of notifications from the drawn-out battle. Glancing over at his spirits, he muttered, "Sprint Mastery, huh? Yeah, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever run that hard or that fast before¡ªit was literally run or die." He could barely imagine himself attempting a similar escape back on Earth; he would¡¯ve been caught every time. I¡¯m faster than any Olympic athlete now, he thought. I can sustain speeds they couldn¡¯t even imagine. This system really is something else. As he caught his breath, he considered the details of Sprint Mastery. It ranked up all the way to Level 10, he realized with a faint smile. It¡¯s my highest skill now. His thoughts turned to his growing list of abilities. I¡¯m gaining skills quickly. I wonder if there¡¯s a limit to the number of skills I can get, like my class abilities. Feeling a sense of pride in his progress, Colm felt satisfied. Colm''s eyes drifted to his new achievement: the Blessing of the Wilds. It was another satisfying percentage boost that would continue to strengthen him. He wondered what rewards the next challenge might bring. His attention then shifted to the loot. With a thought, he accepted it, and the item materialized in his hand. He inspected the claw¡ªa pristine version of the ones the beast had wielded. It was about twelve inches long, with a pronounced curve and impressive durability. Testing its sharpness, he dragged it along a nearby tree and watched as it sliced cleanly through the wood. This thing is razor-sharp, he thought. No wonder my phantoms fell so quickly¡ªthe beast was an absolute powerhouse. I''m lucky it didn¡¯t have any spells; otherwise, I might not have made it out of that crevice. Based on the description of the claw, it could be crafted into a weapon. I wonder if there are crafting-focused classes that could make even better use of this, Colm mused. For now, I¡¯ll settle for using it as a spearhead. With that in mind, he instructed the Phantom Warrior to whittle down a nearby log, shaping it into a makeshift spear capable of holding the claw securely. He also directed it to retrieve some sturdy vine from the surrounding trees to bind the claw to the shaft. Meanwhile, Colm waited for his mana to regenerate to re-summon the Spearman. "At least I¡¯ll have a better weapon for now," Colm muttered, watching the Phantom Warrior work steadily. Once his mana had regenerated a bit, he summoned the Phantom Spearman back to his side, its spectral form flickering into place. Next, he allocated his recently earned stat points, focusing on dexterity and intelligence. He reasoned that his main combat style relied on his phantoms, but his speed from dexterity had been critical to his survival against the Grove Stalker. It¡¯s worth keeping my skills sharp, just in case, he thought, while replaying the encounter through his mind while looking over his status. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 29 Health: 540 / 540 Mana: 290 / 290 Strength: 30 Dexterity: 45 (47) Intelligence: 64 Constitution: 52 (54) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 9) - Phantom Spearman (Level 8) - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 6) - Empty - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 3) - Stealth (Level 6) - Pain Resistance (Level 4) - Hardened Skin (Level 3) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) - Spear Mastery (Level 3) - Sprint Mastery (Level 10) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Blessing of the Stone - Blessing of the Wilds Lost in thought, Colm pondered why he hadn¡¯t been able to Analyze the Grove Stalker. Maybe it had an ability that blocked detection, he guessed, or perhaps it was simply too high-level to assess. At twice his level, the gap in power might have been too vast. This raises the real question, he thought: How am I even able to keep up here? I''ve been fighting way above my level, which begs the question that levels must not mean everything. He didn¡¯t notice when the Phantom Warrior returned with the freshly carved spear base and a vine. Snapping out of his thoughts, he began securing the claw to the spear¡¯s tip. After hours of meticulous work to find the right balance, he gave it a few test swings and thrusts, adjusting to the new balance. "Heavier now, but definitely deadlier," he muttered to his phantoms, half expecting a response. He slashed at a nearby tree to test the blade further, carving chunks from the trunk with satisfying ease. After practicing the new weapon, Colm felt the gnaw of thirst and hunger. He set off to find water, munching on a handful of the ever-abundant Celestial Blooms he¡¯d gathered nearby. Within minutes, he located a fresh stream. "The best thing about this Grove," he said aloud, "is never having to worry about food or water. There¡¯s always something nearby." He drank deeply from the stream and splashed water over his face, letting the coolness calm his nerves. With a clearer mind and renewed energy, his thoughts turned to his next move. I think I¡¯ve explored just about everything the Grove offers, he mused, then remembered the crevice he¡¯d hidden in. That passage went deeper. Maybe there¡¯s something more hidden within the crevice. Chapter 16: Exploring the Crevice Colm rested for the night, the battle with the Grove Stalker taking a significant toll on him. Though the fight ended abruptly, it had been a long and grueling ordeal. He had spent hours running at full speed, his stats pushed to their limit, and he was utterly spent by the time it was over. Despite finishing the fight with more health than his clash with the Stone Gnawer, Colm couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this encounter had been far closer. A single swipe from the Grove Stalker¡¯s deadly claws would have ended him instantly. He knew he¡¯d been lucky¡ªthe creature¡¯s cruel nature, toying with him and focusing on the Phantom Warrior, had been his saving grace. Without those quirks, he wouldn¡¯t have survived. Upon waking, he stretched and let out a long yawn, followed by an unnecessary groan. "Definitely feel old," he muttered with a chuckle. "Don¡¯t even know why I groaned, but there it is." Shaking his head, he added wistfully, "I¡¯d kill for a hot shower and a comfy bed." Colm took a moment to enjoy the serene beauty of the Grove, his eyes wandering across the landscape. The soft rustling of unseen wildlife mingled with the gentle sway of the trees, their movements harmonizing with the faint glow of luminescent plants scattered across the ground. "This place really is something," he muttered. Despite the perpetual twilight¡ªwhere night never truly came, and all light emanated from the plants¡ªit had a strange, otherworldly charm. I could live here, he mused, letting the thought linger. The Grove had so much to offer¡ªabundant space, natural food, and multiple springs of fresh water. Aside from the Grove Stalker, which is no longer a problem, there weren¡¯t too many fierce creatures to worry about. It could truly be a sanctuary. Honestly, he thought, after dealing with the undead, this place feels amazing. Would things have been different if I¡¯d teleported here instead of that cursed undead forest? Would I have felt the same drive to grow strong so quickly? Or would I have let myself relax and settle into the peace this place offers? The idea gnawed at him for a moment before he shook his head. As serene as the Grove was, staying here alone for the rest of his life would be its own kind of challenge. No matter how beautiful a place is, isolation always comes at a cost. With a sigh, Colm let the thought drift away and refocused on the task at hand. After taking in the sights, he gathered more Celestial Blooms, eating his fill and stowing a few extras in his pocket. The cool, crisp water from a nearby stream provided a refreshing finish to his regular meal. Feeling refreshed, Colm turned his attention to the newly crafted spear, its tip adorned with the Claw of the Grove Stalker. "Crafted" might have been too generous a term¡ªit was essentially a sturdy stick with the claw securely strapped to the end. Colm had tightly interwoven the vines binding the claw and spearhead, the result of several painstaking hours of work. Colm had spent that time tying and retying the vines, carefully adjusting them to balance sturdiness with practicality. He wanted the claw to hold firm without adding excessive bulk or risking the bindings loosening during use. Despite its crude appearance, the finished spear exuded a raw, intimidating presence. Colm allowed himself a moment of satisfaction, running his fingers along the tightly secured bindings. It wasn¡¯t perfect, but it was sturdy enough to inspire confidence. After a moment of quiet admiration for his new weapon, Colm began practicing with the spear against his phantoms, testing its balance and weight. He started with the Phantom Warrior. The warrior, seemingly aware of the spear¡¯s sharp edge, was more inclined to dodge, weaving deftly around Colm¡¯s strikes. At first, Colm gained the upper hand more frequently than before, the added lethality of the weapon giving his attacks a ferocity that caught the warrior off guard. But the phantom quickly adapted, forcing Colm back onto the defensive as it exploited openings in his technique. Next, Colm squared off against the Phantom Spearman. Here, he noticed a distinction¡ªthe spearman''s added reach gave it an even greater advantage. It could keep Colm at bay easily, deflecting his attacks and maintaining its distance. Despite the weapon¡¯s improvements, Colm found it harder to land solid hits against the spearman¡¯s precise thrusts and calculated movements. The claw¡¯s added weight and heft made the spear feel heavier than Colm was accustomed to, but he gradually adjusted to it through repeated practice and minor adjustments. The awkwardness of the added weight faded, replaced by a growing sense of familiarity. Despite its crude construction, the weapon started feeling more natural in his hands. Colm gained newfound confidence with his sparring session against the phantoms, ready to wield the spear in an actual fight. Leaving his temporary camp behind, Colm ventured back toward the crevice. "This Grove is so confusing. Everything looks the same," he muttered to his phantoms, half-expecting a response. Of course, they only stared ahead in silence, their steady presence unchanging as they all moved forward. The journey was uneventful, and before long, they arrived at the crevice. Colm¡¯s eyes briefly lingered on the body of the Grove Stalker as they passed, its massive form now still and lifeless. His mind drifted back to the battle, replaying moments that sent a shiver down his spine. The many times I stumbled over roots while running? The moment it shattered my spear, right at the start? Or when it killed my phantoms before I even realized it was there? Each memory felt like a brush with death, closer than he wanted to admit. He shook his head, trying to push away the lingering sense of dread. Despite his newfound strength, the encounter was a stark reminder of his fragility. There had to be creatures out there far stronger than the Grove Stalker¡ªbeings that could snuff him out as easily as blowing out a candle. The thought made his stomach churn.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. To distract himself, Colm turned his attention to a question that had been nagging at him. I wonder the difference between the claws of the beast and the one the system granted as loot. They look identical. I might see if I can scavenge a couple from the corpse later. He filed the thought away for later, knowing it would be worth investigating when he had the chance. Standing before the crevice, Colm muttered, "How did I fit in here?" He took a deep breath, sighing as he surveyed the narrow gap in the stone covered in roots. Peering into the crevice, he saw it run deep into the rocky terrain, disappearing into the shadows. Circling the mixture of trees and stone, he found little of interest. Aside from this large cluster of stone and gnarled roots, the area seemed uneventful. Still, the sheer size of the formation gave him a flicker of hope. This fixture seemed larger than the dimensions of the stone temple he¡¯d seen before. He thought the crevice might lead to a broader cavern, holding onto that slim possibility. Colm returned to the crevice and commanded his phantoms to approach the narrow crack, hoping they could scout ahead. However, their forms were slightly bulkier than his, and they couldn¡¯t squeeze through. Frustrated but unsurprised, he mentally instructed them to stand guard outside. If I find anything, I¡¯ll just re-summon them, he thought, though the idea of facing danger alone in the tight space made his stomach tighten. Taking a determined breath, Colm began forcing his way through the crevice. "You know," he muttered, "without the panic of being chased by a giant beast, this is much harder to squeeze through." His hand brushed the rough stone walls and jagged vines as he moved. The coarse stone scraped against his skin, and the vines, sharp as tiny barbs, left minor cuts that stung with each movement. Thankfully, his Lingering Vitality healed the wounds almost instantly, though the brief pain was still enough to make him wince. Despite the healing, the tightness of the space pressed on him more than he expected. In the heat of the moment, he¡¯d joked about not being claustrophobic, but now, with no adrenaline driving him forward, the oppressive closeness of the crevice sank in. The walls felt alive, closing in on him, and he struggled to control his breathing as a cold tension gripped his chest. Memories of videos he¡¯d seen back home flickered through his mind¡ªcave explorers navigating tight passages, only for some to meet horrific ends, stuck, alone, and terrified. The thought of a slow, suffocating death made his heart race. He gulped hard, shaking the image from his mind. That will not happen. Not to me. Inch by inch, Colm pressed forward, the progress agonizingly slow. He had to calculate each movement, twisting his body to avoid the jagged edges that threatened to trap him¡ªmade even more challenging while holding his makeshift spear. The rough stone scraped against his arms, and he winced as he wedged deeper into the passage. After what felt like an eternity, he pushed about ten feet forward, only to find the narrow path veering off sharply to the side. Twisting his body to follow the new angle, Colm peered ahead, but his flicker of optimism faded. The way forward still looked as tight and unyielding as the space he¡¯d just struggled through. After what felt like an eternity of tense minutes squeezing through the crevice, the path seemed to end. Colm let out a heavy sigh, frustration settling in as he assessed the situation. His eyes darted around, but there wasn¡¯t much to see¡ªjust rough stone walls intertwined with loose roots, offering no obvious way forward. Annoyed and eager to escape the suffocating confines, Colm turned back, his free hand brushing along the coarse stone to guide his retreat. But then he paused. His fingers grazed a different wall section, and he felt a faint, cool, unmistakable draft whispering against his skin. He froze, his frustration melting into a flicker of hope. There¡¯s something here. Frowning, he scanned the cramped space as best he could. That¡¯s when he noticed something unusual: a section of the wall where the roots seemed to cover something other than stone. Intrigued, Colm reached out and began peeling them away. The roots were thick and stubborn, requiring significant effort to remove. It wasn¡¯t a quick job¡ªlayer upon layer of tangled roots had to be wrestled free. By the time he¡¯d cleared an opening, a small pile of roots lay at his feet, adding to the already cramped quarters. But the effort was worth it. A hidden opening revealed itself as the last of the roots came away. Slowly, the outline of a room came into view, its walls wrapped in thick roots and vines. Faint light danced across the space, emanating from glowing petals embedded in the walls. A stone pillar at the center of the chamber stood softly illuminated, its surface carved with intricate patterns that seemed to pulse faintly with light. Stepping inside, Colm took in the chamber, mentally noting its concealed entrance. I¡¯m going to have to hit every wall I pass, he thought. Who knows how many more hidden spaces there might be in this world? After surveying the room, Colm re-summoned his phantoms, who hadn¡¯t been able to squeeze through the crevice with him. He sent them to scout the chamber, but nothing seemed to stand out. Grumbling, he muttered, "I need some night vision. It¡¯s still dark in here." After orientating himself, frustration bubbled over. He threw his hands up and yelled, "Why was this place depicted with a tree on the mural?! It¡¯s mostly stone and roots! I wasted so much time searching for something resembling the other temple. Damn it!" His voice echoed faintly in the dim, hollow space, amplifying his irritation. As the echoes faded, Colm¡¯s thoughts turned inward. What else could be misleading if this is how the system represents things? He wondered, not for the first time, how much he could truly rely on the system that governed this strange world. It had already pushed him to fight far above his level; what other surprises did it have? As Colm stewed in his thoughts, his eyes wandered around the dimly lit room until they settled on a dark corner. A sense of unease prickled at him as he tried to peer through the shadows. The longer he stared, the more his discomfort grew. Reluctantly, he sent his phantoms ahead to investigate, their spectral forms gliding silently into the darkness. Colm cautiously moved closer when nothing happened, his heart pounding with every step. When he finally reached the corner, his heart skipped a beat. Lying crumpled against the wall were the skeletal remains of an individual, their clothes and gear long decayed, leaving only brittle bones behind. The sight was haunting¡ªa stark reminder of the dangers that lay ahead. "Shit," Colm muttered under his breath. "I guess that sets the tone for this temple." Chapter 17: The Tree Temple With a sigh, Colm approached the pillar. Just like in the previous temple, the stone shifted as he neared, text etching itself across its surface. Those who offer blood unto the stone will be tested. If deemed strong, they will be rewarded. Reading the notification, Colm noted it mirrored the text of the previous trial. Before offering his blood, he carefully surveyed the room, searching for any defensible positions. The space was barren¡ªjust the skeleton slumped in the corner, the stone pillar at its center, vines and flora clinging to the walls. After a moment¡¯s thought, he positioned himself in a corner, instructing his phantoms to stand guard in front of him as a defensive line. Satisfied with his plan, Colm steadied himself, used his newly crafted spear to make a small slice across his palm, and headed to the stone pillar. He held his hand over the pillar, letting the blood drip onto the stone. The moment his blood pooled on the stone, the atmosphere shifted. A loud slam echoed through the chamber as the entryway slammed shut, extinguishing the light. The remaining light flickered, casting erratic shadows across the walls, and an eerie sense of foreboding settled over the room. The door had sealed behind him, and the trial had begun. Colm smirked, gripping his spear tightly while moving to his defensive position. "Let¡¯s see what this temple throws at me," he said, his voice laced with anticipation. After several tense minutes of waiting, nothing happened. By now; monsters should¡¯ve swarmed me, Colm thought, recalling the last temple. Maybe this trial is different? He sent his Phantom Warrior to circle the room, scanning for any signs of movement or hidden threats. Nothing happened. He waited a few more minutes, peering around the dimly lit chamber. The only light came from the faint glow of the pillar and the softly luminescent flora clinging to the walls, casting weak, uneven shadows across the space. The darkness seemed impenetrable, heightening his unease. Yet, the silence persisted. With a shrug, Colm moved about the room, keeping his phantoms on alert for any threats. When no attacks came, he turned his attention back to the skeleton in the corner, hoping it might explain what had transpired here. He crouched by the brittle remains, brushing lightly at the decayed bones, but time had reduced nearly everything to dust. There were no belongings, markings, or hints¡ªnothing to explain its presence. "How long ago were you here?" Colm muttered aloud, his voice tinged with curiosity as if the skeleton might somehow answer him. Hours passed. Colm¡¯s patience wore thin as he remained on high alert, searching the room repeatedly. Nothing attacked him. No sounds hinted at approaching danger. No changes occurred in the chamber. Days blurred together in maddening stillness. Colm paced the room endlessly, tracing the walls with his hands, running his fingers over every inch of stone, and trying to find a way out of this cramped cavern. Colm examined the skeleton in the corner so many times that he could picture every brittle bone in his mind. He pulled vines from the wall, discarded them in heaps, and reread the inscription on the pillar until it was burned into his memory and the words lost all meaning. Each repetition hammered home the same grim reality: he was trapped, and the trial stubbornly refused to reveal its purpose. The oppressive darkness, coupled with the lack of food and water, gnawed at Colm¡¯s sanity. Only his enhanced body prevented him from dehydrating or starving, since he had finished the last of the Celestial Blooms he stored in his pocket days ago. Leaning against the cold stone wall, he broke the silence, calling out to his Phantom Warrior¡ªwhom he had casually dubbed "Carver" long ago. The name resurfaced now, a tiny flicker of comfort in the depths of his dark isolation. "Hey, Carver," he began, his voice cracking from disuse. "I¡¯m sorry I stopped treating you like a friend. I mean, when he came along¡ª" Colm gestured toward the Phantom Spearman¡ª"I didn¡¯t want to cause any drama." The room remained silent. Undeterred, Colm continued. "You know, we should probably name the other guy. What do you think, Carver? He¡¯s good with that spear; it reminds me of an old coworker I had back in the day. How about we call him ¡®Lance¡¯?" He chuckled to himself, a hollow sound that echoed faintly in the empty chamber. "Yeah, Lance. That¡¯s got a nice point to it, don¡¯t you think? I''ll call you both by your names from now on." But no response came, and Colm¡¯s laughter died away, replaced by a gnawing sense of isolation and despair. Weary and frayed, he could feel exhaustion creeping over him, the relentless days of vigilance and inactivity taking their toll. The refusal to let his guard down¡ªnot even for a moment¡ªhad pushed him past his limits. His newfound strength may have reduced his need for rest, but it couldn¡¯t erase his body¡¯s desperate craving for sleep. Colm''s eyelids grew heavy as his thoughts drifted, slipping in and out of coherence. I can¡¯t keep this up. I can feel my mind slipping. This isolation is driving me crazy, he realized, the thought cutting through the haze like a blade. Whatever this trial is, it¡¯s breaking me in its own way. Colm unwillingly slipped into an uneasy sleep, not for lack of vigilance, but because exhaustion had finally overpowered him. Fortunately, his phantoms stood guard, their silent presence offering some semblance of protection. But his rest was short-lived. He jolted awake, a sharp notification flashing in his mind. You have been poisoned. Panic surged through his hazy mind, but Colm took a steadying breath. He quickly looked to Carver and Lance to see them alert and looking around, but otherwise unaffected by the poison, and he scanned the room, his eyes darting to every shadow, every corner. Still, there was nothing¡ªno movement, no sign of an attacker. Desperate for answers, he pulled up his status screen.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Health: 517 / 520 Mana: 290 / 290 His health was ticking down slowly¡ªjust a couple of points each minute. His heart pounded as he watched, waiting to feel the healing nudge of Lingering Vitality and replenish the lost health. But nothing happened. The numbers continued their steady decline, and the ability refused to kick in. Colm¡¯s mind raced. Why isn¡¯t it working? He frantically recalled the ability¡¯s description. Passive Ability: Lingering Vitality (Level 6) Slowly regenerate health over time when out of combat, drawing on the presence of the spirit realm to sustain yourself. "When out of combat¡­" he muttered, his eyes widening as the implication sank in. "That means I¡¯ve been in combat this entire time." The realization hit him like a blow. "Whatever creature is here," he whispered, "it¡¯s been waiting me out. Watching. And now it¡¯s trying to kill me¡ªslowly, patiently¡ªwith poison." Colm clenched his fists, a chill running down his spine. This wasn¡¯t just a test of strength¡ªit¡¯s a test of endurance, of survival against an enemy I can¡¯t even see.
"I''m running out of time," Colm muttered, glancing at his health as it ticked down a few more points. His hand instinctively clutched the Fungal Charm in his pocket¡ªthe only loot he¡¯d salvaged from the Fungal Goblins in the Grove. So far, it had proven invaluable, slowing the loss of his health during this trial to a manageable crawl. He could feel its subtle power at work, a faint reassurance against the otherwise relentless poison. [ Loot Acquired: Fungal Charm ] An eerie charm fashioned from twisted roots and fungi harvested from the Fungal Goblin. When worn, the charm slightly boosts resistance to poison and environmental effects, providing limited immunity to minor toxins and fungal spores. Rereading the description, Colm couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the charm was almost a warning, an omen of this trial. "What else could I have missed?" he murmured, running a hand through his hair. But he quickly brushed the thought aside¡ªthis wasn¡¯t the time to get distracted by hindsight. With no other plan forming, Colm made a snap decision. "Attack everything. The walls. The pillar. The vines. Everything." he commanded his phantoms. Carver and Lance responded immediately, focusing on the room. Carver''s blade slashed at the walls with relentless fury while Lance thrust with precise, powerful strikes at the central pillar. Colm joined in, taking a few swings at the pillar, but it didn¡¯t so much as budge under their combined assault. The stone remained unyielding despite their efforts. The only noticeable progress was on the walls, where the vines, weakened by the relentless assault, fell away in heavy clumps, landing with soft thuds on the ground. Realizing this might be his only chance at uncovering something useful, Colm redirected his efforts. "Focus on the vines!" he barked, stepping away from the pillar alongside Lance to join the Carver. Together, they slashed furiously, blade and spear rapidly tearing through the clinging roots and foliage. Each swing carried a sense of urgency, a desperate attempt to find a clue, an exit¡ªanything. The poison continued its slow, insidious drain on his health, fueling Colm¡¯s desperation with every passing moment. Yet, with each clump of vines that fell to the ground, a flicker of hope reignited. There has to be something here, he thought, willing his arms to keep moving despite the growing fatigue. There has to be. After frantic minutes of relentless swiping from his phantoms and himself, the room dimmed as a light was snuffed out, and a loud screech pierced the air. Colm¡¯s eyes widened as a new notification flashed before him. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 30) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. "What?" he muttered in disbelief, his gaze darting to another glowing petal on the wall. Quickly, he cast Analyze. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 29) The realization hit him like a thunderbolt. These things look just like Sunlit Petals. I assumed they were harmless. Colm inwardly cursed himself for his carelessness. I can¡¯t assume anything in this world. Shaking off his frustration, he refocused and roared orders to his phantoms. "Destroy the creatures!" One by one, notifications filled his vision, and screeches filled the air as the slaughter commenced. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 29) Defeated. Experience Gained. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 28) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 27) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 29) Defeated. Experience Gained. Toxic Lurebloom (Level 30) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Huffing with exertion, Colm and his phantoms eradicated the creatures swiftly. The room plunged into darkness, except for the faint glow from the central pillar. He felt his Lingering Vitality kick in and saw his health tick up. Then, a welcome notification appeared in his vision. You are no longer poisoned. [ Skill Acquired ] Poison Resistance (Level 1) - Due to continuous exposure to a lethal poison that failed to kill you, your body has adapted, granting you an inherent resistance to many poisons. Poisonous effects are now significantly less effective against you. Poison Resistance (Level 1) is now Poison Resistance (Level 2) Relief washed over him as he watched his health stabilize, accompanied by a flicker of satisfaction at the newfound skill. No longer was his health slowly ticking down, a constant reminder of his peril. Yet, the exhaustion from days of sleepless vigilance pressed heavily on him, dragging his body and mind toward their limits. He clenched his fists, berating himself for breaking his habit. He¡¯d grown complacent after becoming familiar with the Grove, dismissing countless duplicate Analyze results as mundane. But in this unfamiliar trial, his overconfidence had nearly cost him everything. Lesson learned, he vowed, his resolve hardening. Never assume. Never let your guard down. His eyes drifted to his healed palm, where he¡¯d cut himself to drip blood onto the stone. Lingering Vitality must have healed it before the trial even fully started. The thought gnawed at him as he pieced it together. Maybe they were Sunlit Petals at first, harmless and inviting. But the moment the trial began, the system twisted them into those creatures, luring me into a false sense of security. He clenched his jaw; the realization settled like a weight on his shoulders. The trial wasn¡¯t just about strength¡ªit was about deception. After catching his breath, Colm glanced at the skeleton and muttered, "I guess you never figured it out, huh? I got lucky." His mind replayed the start of the trial¡ªthe slam of the door, the flicker of the lights, the dimming glow. It was all a distraction, he realized. He paused, his gaze lingering on the brittle remains, a flicker of determination sparking in his tired eyes. "Don¡¯t worry," he whispered. "I¡¯ll finish this trial¡ªfor both of us." Chapter 18: Guardian After a moment to catch his breath, the room flickered, and everything reverted to its original state. The vines and glowing petals once again adorned the walls, their golden light casting a faint, comforting warmth. Not wasting a moment, Colm quickly cast Analyze on the petals and the vines. Sunlit Petals Lifebound Vines Confirming that they were genuine Sunlit Petals and the regular vines he had seen throughout the Grove this time only reinforced Colm¡¯s earlier theory: the trial had altered them at the start. "This trial is confusing," he muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. In the previous trial, the moment he finished the first stage, a boss appeared and attacked without delay. But here, the room had simply reverted to its original state¡ªvines and petals restored¡ªand now nothing was here. There has to be something here, he thought, gripping his spear tightly as he remained on guard. His phantoms flanked him on either side, their presence a silent reassurance. The dim cavern offered little in the way of answers. Using the faint glow of the new Sunlit Petals, Colm scanned his surroundings. His eyes darted over the walls, the central pillar, and every shadowed corner in between, searching for any sign of a lurking beast. Yet, everything remained unnervingly still. Determined not to repeat the same mistake as before, Colm instructed Carver to attack the walls, slashing through the vines and petals with relentless precision. Meanwhile, Lance remained by his side, spear at the ready, prepared to defend him if anything unexpected happened. After a few moments, vines and petals fell to the ground in heaps and as the glowing petals fell to the ground, the room grew dimmer. Colm let out a sigh, equal parts relief and frustration, as it seemed nothing had emerged. Just as his shoulders slumped, his guard lowering slightly, a loud crash shattered the silence. As he saw Lance move swiftly, spear raised in a defensive stance, and a sharp notification flashed before Colm¡¯s eyes. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Colm whipped around, his eyes straining in the dim light as Carver lunged into action. Through the darkness, he glimpsed movement¡ªa flash of scales¡ªand then Carver struck. The impact landed, and a loud hiss echoed through the chamber, the sound reverberating off the stone walls. Wasting no time, Colm quickly activated his Phantom Spearman ability, re-summoning Lance. With his pulse racing, he cast Analyze, hoping to pierce through the darkness and reveal the threat lurking within. Wraithvine Serpent (Level ??) As Colm finished reading the creature¡¯s description, a sudden wetness on his shoulder drew his attention. His breath caught as he realized what it was. Blood. Cursing his sluggish response, a result of exhaustion and the grueling nature of the trial, the truth hit him like a jolt. Lance had saved his life, intercepting the beast mere moments before it could land its strike, resulting in the beast''s blood dripping on him. Pulling his attention back to the battle, Colm watched Lance take solid form as the ability completed. Without hesitation, Colm charged forward, spear in hand, with Lance at his side, rushing to support Carver. A grin tugged at the corners of his mouth despite the tension. No more deception, he thought. Just a fight now. The clash between Carver and the Wraithvine Serpent was nothing short of mesmerizing. The creature moved with astonishing speed, its tactics defensive yet precise¡ªit would lunge at Carver with venomous intent, only to recoil just in time to evade the phantom¡¯s spectral blade. Carver matched the serpent¡¯s agility, striking with calculated precision before swiftly retreating to avoid the beast¡¯s vicious counterattacks. Every movement was deliberate, his caution clear as he danced around the serpent¡¯s deadly fangs, unwilling to risk even the slightest graze. The Wraithvine Serpent coiled tightly upon itself, its dense form compact and ready to strike. As they closed in, the sheer mass of the creature struck Colm¡ªit wasn¡¯t particularly long, but its thick, muscular body radiated power. In an instant, it lashed out, its movements lightning-fast, aiming to wound while keeping its core protected. Its ability to recoil and reposition with almost no warning made it a daunting opponent, its coiled stance offering both offense and defense in equal measure. Within moments, Colm and Lance joined the fray to support Carver. Lance arrived first, striking with a powerful thrust of his spear just as the creature dodged a slash from Carver. A sharp hiss escaped the Wraithvine Serpent as it registered the new threat. Before it could react further, Colm closed in, circling to deliver a precise strike with his newly crafted spear, eliciting another furious hiss. Realizing it was now outmaneuvered, the serpent shifted tactics. With a sudden burst of speed, it lunged and slithered away, attempting to reposition itself to avoid being surrounded. But Carver and Lance were quick to adapt, pressing the attack relentlessly, with Colm following close behind. Sensing the encroaching phantoms, the serpent bolted toward the nearest wall. Upon arriving, it turned and coiled tightly and launched itself forward with blinding speed, fangs bared in a deadly strike aimed at Carver. The phantom sidestepped just in time to avoid the full impact, but the serpent¡¯s tail whipped around in a follow-through, catching Carver off guard and slamming him to the ground. Before the phantom could recover, the Wraithvine Serpent, with lightning-fast reflexes, capitalized on its opening. It lunged forward, sinking its fangs deep into Carver¡¯s neck, the phantom''s form trembling from the damage and faded away. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Before the creature could recover, Lance lunged forward, driving his spear cleanly through the serpent¡¯s body, severing it in two. Colm watched as the beast¡¯s remains fell lifeless to the ground, releasing a quick sigh of relief. "That was much easier compared to the last two fights," he muttered, catching his breath. Out of habit, he activated his Phantom Warrior ability, summoning Carver back to his side once more. As Carver solidified upon the completion of the summoning, Colm turned his attention to the remains of the beast. He approached cautiously, intending to examine the corpse, but paused mid-step as a chilling realization struck him¡ªthere was no notification from the system confirming the creature¡¯s defeat. His breath caught, and before he could react further, the serpent sprang to life, fully regenerated. With terrifying speed, it lunged at Colm, fangs bared in a desperate, lethal attempt to take him out. Colm twisted his body desperately, while Carver and Lance sprung into action, but it all happened too fast. The serpent¡¯s jaws clamped down on his arm with vicious fury, its fangs sinking deep. A searing pain shot through him, tearing a scream from his throat as a notification flooded his vision as he fell to the ground. This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. You have been poisoned.
In mere moments, Carver and Lance were upon the Wraithvine Serpent again, their relentless attacks forcing it to release Colm¡¯s arm and retreat. Colm lay on his back, his vision swimming and his thoughts sluggish. Days of this ridiculous trial, he thought, the words looping through his mind. Constant vigilance, no sleep, fighting hunger and dehydration¡ªit¡¯s made me slow. Careless. A pang of regret pierced through the haze. I should¡¯ve realized it wasn¡¯t dead. Taking a shaky breath, he gathered his thoughts, pushing the pain and exhaustion aside just enough to pull up his status screen. He needed to see how much damage had been done. Health: 203 / 520 Mana: 270 / 290 Wincing at the sight of his low health, Colm realized just how close he had come to death¡ªand it wasn¡¯t over yet. His health continued to tick down, the poison relentlessly sapping his strength. I need to end this, he thought, gritting his teeth. Only then can my Lingering Vitality counter the poison. At least there was a faint silver lining. He could feel the subtle nudge of his Poison Resistance skill activating, its presence slowing the toxin¡¯s spread just enough to buy him precious moments. Slowly rising to his feet, Colm cast a glance at Carver and Lance. They seemed to hold their own against the serpent, and were even pushing it back, with the creature taking multiple hits. Taking the moment to steady himself, Colm turned his attention to the battlefield, piecing together what had happened. His eyes landed on the severed portion of the serpent¡¯s body, still lying lifeless on the ground. Frowning, he looked back at the creature, noting its form seemed intact. Squinting, he studied it more closely. Wait, it¡¯s slightly smaller. The realization clicked. It has a regeneration ability¡ªbut it¡¯s not perfect. It¡¯s losing mass every time it heals. Colm''s eyes followed the chaotic battle unfolding before him. The serpent lashed out, dodging and recoiling, its movements fluid and calculated. Meanwhile, Carver and Lance executed a coordinated assault, each covering the other¡¯s weaknesses with precision. Carver would slash with his spectral blade, an attack that left him momentarily exposed. But Lance was always there, following up with a thrust to shield the opening, forcing the creature to take a hit. Blow after blow landed, yet the serpent continued its relentless dance, striking and retreating. As Colm focused, his brows furrowed. The hits are landing, but they¡¯re not sticking. Each wound on the creature sealed quickly, its regeneration keeping it in the fight despite the phantoms¡¯ relentless attacks. Colm weighed his options carefully. He could let Carver and Lance continue their assault¡ªthey clearly held the upper hand, but their progress was agonizingly slow. The serpent¡¯s regenerative abilities meant that only minor hits were landing effectively, and at this rate, it might take too long to wear the creature down. His gaze flicked to his status screen, watching his health tick down another three points. I might be dead to the poison before they finish it. He clenched his fists, frustration bubbling up. Stupid mistakes. I should¡¯ve let them handle this from the start. Now I don¡¯t have a choice¡ªI have to step in. Cracking his knuckles and rolling his neck, Colm smirked despite the dire situation. "This is a battle of endurance," he whispered, his spear held tight. With one last glance at his dwindling health, Colm steeled himself, a determined grin spreading across his face. He charged forward into the fray. Colm angled himself to approach the fight from behind, aiming to slice the serpent cleanly in two. Using the shadows to his advantage, he focused on using Stealth and crept around the room¡¯s perimeter, blending into the darkness. Each step was slow and deliberate, his movements silent as he edged closer. The beast is too focused on Carver and Lance, he thought, hoping it still believed its earlier attack had finished him. After painstaking moments, Colm reached the edge of the battle. The fight remained a blur of constant motion¡ªCarver¡¯s blade swiping at the serpent with deadly intent, Lance following up with precise spear thrusts. The serpent, coiling and twisting between attacks, evaded with fluid grace, taking only glancing blows as it tried to retaliate. But the phantoms¡¯ coordination kept it at bay, their rhythm relentless. Colm positioned himself perfectly, his grip tightening on his spear as he waited for the right moment. Carver rolled to dodge a vicious bite from the creature, leaving himself momentarily exposed. The serpent lunged, but Lance intercepted it with a swift thrust of his spear, forcing the serpent to recoil and bolt away¡ªright into Colm¡¯s reach. The opening was perfect. Without hesitation, Colm surged forward and slashed with his spear, with the newly attached Claw of the Grove Stalker cutting cleanly through the serpent¡¯s thick body. A guttural hiss echoed through the chamber as the beast writhed in pain. Wasting no time, Colm barked commands to his phantoms, urging them to press the assault. Blade and spear rained down on the serpent, and Colm joined in, swinging his weapon with ferocity, each strike driving the creature closer to its end. Within moments, the serpent recovered from the onslaught, its coiled form now significantly smaller than before bolted towards the opposite end of the room. "Don¡¯t give it time to recover!" Colm commanded, his voice firm as he urged his phantoms forward. He wasn¡¯t about to let this advantage slip away, determined to press the attack and keep the creature on the defensive. Carver and Lance pursued the serpent relentlessly, but it stayed just far enough ahead to gain some breathing room. Reaching the wall, the creature slithered up and disappeared into the thick tangle of vines, its form vanishing into the shadows. "Shit," Colm muttered under his breath, his eyes fixed on the spot where it had slipped away. Quickly, he shifted into a defensive position, keeping his distance from the walls. "Carver, stay with me. Lance, start cutting down the vines." Minutes dragged on as Lance methodically slashed through the vines, the severed foliage falling to the floor in heaps. Yet the serpent remained elusive. Colm¡¯s heart pounded as desperation crept in. His health continued to tick downward, and it was clear the creature had changed its tactics. It¡¯s stalling, Colm realized bitterly. It¡¯s waiting for the poison to finish me. Lance finally cleared an entire wall, but there was no sign of the beast. Frustration mounting, Colm gestured for him to move to the next wall while instructing Carver to attack another. His concern for safety waned as the relentless ticking of his health bar reminded him of how little time he had left. With only one wall of vines remaining, Colm knew the serpent had to be hiding there. The room¡¯s perimeter was now littered with chopped vines, offering nowhere else for it to conceal itself. "End this," Colm growled, his voice tight with urgency. His phantoms sprang into action, their attacks swift and unrelenting. Blade and spear tore through the last wall, cutting the vines down with ease. Then, with a loud, piercing hiss, the serpent burst from its hiding place, striking out furiously. A notification flashed across Colm¡¯s vision as the creature landed a vicious blow on Carver. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Grimacing, Colm quickly activated his Phantom Warrior ability to re-summon Carver. No sooner had the serpent struck than Lance retaliated with a fierce blow, the strike landing with precision, as if to avenge his fallen comrade. In mere moments, Carver rejoined the fray, his blade flashing as he supported Lance, who bobbed, weaved, and deflected the serpent¡¯s vicious attacks. Together, the phantoms pressed the creature relentlessly, driving it back into a corner. The serpent, cornered and unable to maneuver, absorbed hit after hit as the phantoms effortlessly deflected its attacks. Colm dropped to one knee, his breath coming in ragged gasps. His vision blurred as he glanced at his status screen. His health bar hovered dangerously low, the poison still ticking down with every passing second. Health: 32 / 520 Mana: 270 / 290 This has to end now, he thought, his resolve hardening. "Finish it!" he barked, his voice hoarse. "Slice it in two¡ªdon¡¯t let up!" The phantoms responded instantly. Lance lunged with a brutal thrust, his spear piercing deep. The serpent hissed violently, coiling and turning its focus toward the spearman. That single moment of distraction was all Carver needed. With a devastating slash, Carver¡¯s blade cleaved through the creature¡¯s body, slicing it cleanly in two once again. As the serpent¡¯s lifeless form crumpled to the ground, a flood of notifications filled Colm¡¯s vision. Relief washed over him, but his body finally gave in to the exhaustion. Collapsing to the ground, Colm let out a shaky breath as darkness edged toward his vision. Wraithvine Serpent (Level 40) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Phantom Spearman (Level 8) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 9) Phantom Warrior (Level 9) is now Phantom Warrior (Level 10) Poison Resistance (Level 2) is now Poison Resistance (Level 3) Poison Resistance (Level 3) is now Poison Resistance (Level 4) Poison Resistance (Level 4) is now Poison Resistance (Level 5) Pain Resistance (Level 4) is now Pain Resistance (Level 5) Pain Resistance (Level 5) is now Pain Resistance (Level 6) Pain Resistance (Level 6) is now Pain Resistance (Level 7) Stealth (Level 6) is now Stealth (Level 7) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. New class abilities available. Chapter 19: Recovery Again Colm jolted awake, his eyes darting around the room as he adjusted to the dim light. The familiar presence of his phantoms standing guard brought a sense of comfort, their silent vigilance reassuring him. He did not know how long he¡¯d been out. The trial had pushed him to his absolute limits, forcing him to stay awake and alert for days. Finally, he¡¯d managed a moment of rest, albeit unwillingly, though he could still feel the weight of exhaustion lingering in his body. Fragments of his last conscious moments flooded back. He remembered the serpent, the desperate fight, and how close he¡¯d come to death. His phantoms had delivered the final blows, and as darkness claimed him, he felt the faint stir of Lingering Vitality taking hold. That ability, he realized, had likely been the only thing keeping him alive. Knowing he had a slew of notifications waiting, Colm pulled up his status screen and began sorting through them. He knew he had to keep this brief¡ªhis body was crying out for food, water, and more rest. Despite feeling noticeably better after his "nap," a lingering sluggishness reminded him that his recovery was far from complete. First, he reviewed the notifications he vaguely recalled seeing before slipping into unconsciousness. Wraithvine Serpent (Level 40) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Phantom Spearman (Level 8) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 9) Phantom Warrior (Level 9) is now Phantom Warrior (Level 10) Poison Resistance (Level 2) is now Poison Resistance (Level 3) Poison Resistance (Level 3) is now Poison Resistance (Level 4) Poison Resistance (Level 4) is now Poison Resistance (Level 5) Pain Resistance (Level 4) is now Pain Resistance (Level 5) Pain Resistance (Level 5) is now Pain Resistance (Level 6) Pain Resistance (Level 6) is now Pain Resistance (Level 7) Stealth (Level 6) is now Stealth (Level 7) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. New class abilities available. That¡¯s a lot to take in, Colm thought, scanning the flood of notifications. Skill level-ups and stat increases filled the list, showing how much Colm had progressed. A mix of emotions welled up within him¡ªsatisfaction at his growth, tempered by anticipation of what lay ahead. From his experience with the previous trial, he knew something else awaited him. His eyes fell on the stone pillar nearby, its surface etched with an updated yet familiar inscription. Thou has been tested and found worthy. Place thy hand upon the stone to receive your reward. Without hesitation, Colm placed his hand on the stone. A familiar notification appeared before him, signaling the next chapter of his journey. [ Achievement Earned ] Blessing of the Forest - You have endured the dangers of the Trial of the Forest, surviving its deception and cunning. Whether by sheer luck or skill, you have proven your resilience and earned the respect of the forest. Stat Boost: Grants a 5% increase to strength. [ Requirements Fulfilled: Synergized Achievement Unlocked ] Blessing of the Grove - You have conquered the trials of the Lucent Grove, demonstrating unmatched strength and resilience. The Grove acknowledges your determination, granting you its respect and silent blessing. The power of the Blessing of the Stone, Wilds and Forest converges, amplifying your connection to the grove and enhancing your abilities. Stat Boost: Grants a 15% increase to all stats. He expected the first part of the notification, but the convergence of his achievements into a more powerful, synergized version caught him off guard. The enhanced stat increase significantly boosted its effectiveness, and Colm couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of elation. Yet, as the excitement coursed through him, a lingering frustration over the trial itself crept into his thoughts, tempering his emotions. The Wraithvine Serpent had been a lower level than both the Stone Gnawer and the Grove Stalker, yet the fight had been just as deadly¡ªif not more so. Its deceptive tactics, regenerative abilities, and potent venom had pushed him to his limits, proving far more dangerous than its level suggested. After reviewing the flood of notifications, another one caught his attention, lingering in his vision. You are no longer poisoned. Poison Resistance (Level 5) is now Poison Resistance (Level 6) Lingering Vitality (Level 6) is now Lingering Vitality (Level 7) Lingering Vitality (Level 7) is now Lingering Vitality (Level 8) Colm smirked, the irony not lost on him. Who knew being poisoned could be so useful? He thought sarcastically. Reflecting on the trial, he acknowledged just how Lingering Vitality had saved his life¡ªit had proven to be invaluable despite only healing out of combat. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Next, Colm turned his focus to the most exciting part of the results: his level-ups and the subsequent new class abilities. He theorized it might be every fifteen levels that granted him these new options, based on the timing of this unlock. Wasting no time, he allocated his points, prioritizing constitution to increase his health. With that done, he eagerly delved into reviewing the new abilities the system had revealed. New class abilities available. Select a new Class Passive Ability. Passive Ability: Phantom''s Lifeline (Level 1) Your soul is strengthened by the spirit realm, deepening your connection with your phantoms. Each time a phantom lands a successful critical hit, you regenerate 2% of your maximum health. Passive Ability: Spiritual Shield (Level 1) The spirit realm recognizes your worth and grants its protection. You gain a spectral shield equal to 10% of your maximum health, replenished slightly each time a phantom deals damage. Passive Ability: Spectral Persistence (Level 1) A phantom¡¯s duty never ends. When destroyed, a phantom lingers briefly as an invulnerable spectral remnant, dealing 20% of its original damage over 3 seconds before fading completely. Colm read through the choices, each one sounding incredible in its own way. The decision wasn¡¯t easy, and he felt the weight of choosing the right ability pressing down on him. Taking a deep breath, he went through each option again. Phantom¡¯s Lifeline seemed like an incredible ability. The potential to heal during combat would be invaluable, especially in extended fights. Would it overlap with Lingering Vitality? he wondered. And the phrase "critical hit" gave him pause. How often do critical hits even happen? Spiritual Shield looked like a solid, reliable buff. A spectral shield absorbing 10% of his health was a game-changer on its own, but the added benefit of replenishing it through his phantoms¡¯ attacks made it even better. That¡¯s a constant layer of protection while my phantoms are fighting, he thought, nodding in approval. Spectral Persistence sparked a brief chuckle as he reflected on the Grove Stalker fight. This would¡¯ve been useful back then, he mused. It ensured his phantoms could deal damage even after being destroyed, providing not only a guaranteed offensive presence but also a few seconds of invulnerable distraction. It¡¯s like they¡¯d keep fighting from beyond the grave, he thought with a smirk. Struggling to make a choice, Colm narrowed his options down to Spiritual Shield and Spectral Persistence. The main reason he eliminated Phantom¡¯s Lifeline was simple: Lingering Vitality already covers healing. Overlapping abilities wouldn¡¯t make sense right now. Now, it was down to the final two. Spiritual Shield is great¡ªit would definitely help me survive longer, he thought. But Spectral Persistence guarantees consistent damage, even if my phantoms are destroyed. His brow furrowed as he weighed the benefits of each. I¡¯ve been hitting above my level pretty consistently in this world. But how useful is 10% extra health if something can kill me in one hit anyway? The thought solidified his decision. With a firm nod, Colm selected Spectral Persistence, ready to put the ability to use. Feeling the rush of acquiring his new ability, Colm was eager to put it to the test. He commanded Carver to attack and destroy Lance, and the results were immediate. Upon Lance¡¯s destruction, a faint, shimmering echo of the spearman lingered in the air. "Attack Carver," Colm ordered the remnant spearman. It obeyed, striking at Carver with a powerful thrust of its spear. While the attack dealt far less damage than Lance¡¯s original strikes, they were enough to leave a mark. Moments later, the remnant faded from view, and a familiar notification flashed before him. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Determined to understand the limits of his new ability, Colm repeated the test. He re-summoned Lance and once again commanded Carver to attack and this time he added a twist¡ªhe ordered Lance to destroy Carver while the phantom was in its remnant form while ordering Carver to attack the remnant endlessly. As Carver¡¯s blows landed, they phased harmlessly through Lance¡¯s spectral remnant, unable to cause any damage. Meanwhile, Lance retaliated with unrelenting strikes, chipping away at Carver¡¯s form. In a surprising turn, the diminished strength of the remnant was still enough to destroy Carver before the three-second expiration timer ran out. Grinning in satisfaction, Colm admired the synergy of his newfound ability. This is incredible, he thought, already envisioning the strategic possibilities it opened up. As the phantoms finally faded, another notification appeared. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Pleased with the results, Colm quickly re-summoned both phantoms and pulled up his status screen, eager to see his progress laid out before him. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 32 Health: 740 / 740 Mana: 375 / 375 Strength: 30 (34) Dexterity: 45 (51) Intelligence: 66 (75) Constitution: 65 (74) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 10) [Carver] - Phantom Spearman (Level 9) [Lance] - Empty - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 8) - Spectral Persistence (Level 1) - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 3) - Stealth (Level 7) - Pain Resistance (Level 7) - Hardened Skin (Level 3) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) - Spear Mastery (Level 3) - Sprint Mastery (Level 10) - Poison Resistance (Level 6) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Blessing of the Grove As Colm reviewed the updates on his status, he couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at how the system had officially adopted the names he¡¯d given his phantoms, listing them alongside his skills. Creepy how intrusive this thing is, he thought, but I guess it already knows everything about me anyway. A shudder ran through him as he thought back on his mental state during the trial. I really need to find people, he realized. Isolation like this isn¡¯t good for my sanity. A few things caught his eye now that had had time to fully digest his status¡ªthe system displayed the total value of all his stats, with the bonuses from his achievements, neatly alongside the base numbers. However, health and mana didn¡¯t follow the same format; only the updated values, reflecting his enhanced stats, were visible. As he continued scanning, his gaze landed on his achievements. The three he had earned from the Grove had merged into a single entry: Blessing of the Grove. It made sense, considering the earlier notification had mentioned a synergized achievement, with the others converging to form this one. Then another detail stood out. "Of course," he muttered, rolling his eyes. "It rounds down." He grumbled at the missing fraction of a stat. I should technically have .75 more constitution, but it just tossed it away. Annoying as it was, he filed the observation away, reminding himself to focus on the bigger picture. With a satisfied sigh, Colm closed his status screen and cracked his neck, easing some of the lingering tension. Now rested and recharged, he felt ready to leave the cavern, and finally have a meal and drink his fill. Chapter 20: The Grove Shakes With steady determination, Colm set out to leave the cavern, vividly recalling how much he detested squeezing into it. Standing before the impossibly narrow crevice, he let out a sigh, steeling himself for the unpleasant task ahead. Gripping his spear tightly in one hand, he began inching his way through the tight passage. The crevice was just as unforgiving as he remembered, with jagged rocks scraping against him and prickly vines adding to the discomfort. Each step reminded him of its claustrophobic narrowness. As he approached the familiar turn, the journey remained uneventful, and he let out a quiet sigh of relief. Almost there, he thought, a faint sense of freedom stirring within him. He quickened his inchworm pace, eager to escape the confines of the cavern and, soon after, the Grove itself. Visions of biting into Celestial Blooms and gulping down clear water danced in his mind, spurring him forward. Hunger and thirst gnawed at him, their weight almost tangible as he pressed on. After what felt like an eternity of scraping through the cramped tunnel, his thoughts fixed on the promise of nourishment and fresh air, he finally emerged at the other end of the crevice. The sight of the Grove Stalker¡¯s corpse greeted him, its presence a stark reminder of the trials he had overcome. Relief washed over him¡ªhe was free at last, leaving behind the deception and strain of the trial. The moment Colm emerged from the crevice, the ground beneath him shook violently, as though the forest itself raged at what had transpired. The tremor knocked him off his feet, sending him sprawling to the ground. Around him, trees groaned and cracked, their towering forms crashing to the earth as the Grove trembled with fury. Colm¡¯s eyes darted back toward the crevice he had just squeezed through, only to see it crumble and collapse, rocks sealing the entrance in a deafening roar of destruction. Confused and unnerved, Colm remained where he had fallen, bracing himself against the tremors as the forest seemed to protest all around him. Minutes dragged by before the violent upheaval subsided, leaving an eerie stillness in its wake. Just as his heart steadied, a new notification flashed before his eyes. The Will of the Grove has awakened. While the Grove respects your strength and resilience, it does not yield to a master lightly. Prove yourself¡ªendure and triumph to claim dominion over the Grove. "That doesn¡¯t sound ominous at all," Colm muttered, glancing warily around. He stood up and quickly re-summoned his phantoms to his side, their steady presence offering some reassurance. Taking a moment to gather his bearings, he couldn¡¯t ignore the gnawing hunger and thirst clawing at him. I need food and water, he thought, running a hand through his hair. I need to be rested and prepared before facing whatever this Will of the Grove has in store. Resolving to focus on survival first, he set his priorities. Find a nearby stream, drink my fill, and hope I can spot some Celestial Blooms along the way. Walking along a somewhat familiar route, Colm couldn¡¯t help but notice how drastically the landscape had changed since the notifications. Toppled trees lay with their roots jutting out like broken bones, and deep cracks riddled the ground, forcing Colm to redirect and take an unfamiliar path. He moved cautiously, every step deliberate, his senses heightened by unease. The notification lingered in his mind, its cryptic message weighing heavily on him. Endure and triumph, he thought. That doesn¡¯t sound promising. After a few minutes of trudging through the obstacle course the Grove now presented, Colm came across a patch of Celestial Blooms. Without hesitation, he began scarfing them down. The minty taste, which he¡¯d grown tired of after eating nothing but blooms since his arrival, felt like a feast after days of starvation. He ate until he was full and carefully stored a handful for the journey ahead. Continuing his cautious trek, his phantoms flanking him, Colm eventually stumbled upon a familiar stream. Relief flooded him, and he let out a long sigh as he approached the water. With no signs of danger in sight, his weariness took over, as he sensed nothing amiss. Pushing all caution aside, he dropped to his knees and plunged his hands into the cool stream, drinking deeply. Days without food and water had left his mind hazy and his body weak, and in that moment, his need for water overrode all else. After drinking deeply from the stream, Colm sat up, finally feeling like himself again. A little more rest, and he¡¯d be ready to face the challenges of the Grove. Rising to his feet, he began scanning for a spot to camp to rest when a sudden splash from the stream made him whirl around. Before he could react further, something grabbed him and yanked him under the water. Panic surged as he struggled against the unseen force. Through the blur of the stream, he caught sight of his phantoms jumping in after him, their spectral forms cutting through the water with purpose. Lance arrived first, the phantom''s spectral spear glowing faintly in the clear water. With a powerful thrust, it struck at the creature holding Colm, its blade slicing through with enough force to send a shockwave rippling through the water. A loud, reverberating screech echoed in the depths, and Colm felt the grip on him release. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Kicking hard, he broke through the surface, gasping for air and coughing as he clung to the edge of the stream. As he caught his breath, a notification flashed before his eyes. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 35) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Continuing coughing and gasping for air, Colm swam desperately toward the edge of the stream. Just as he reached it, something yanked him back under again. This time, however, the struggle was brief. Carver was already on the creature, striking with a decisive blow. A loud hiss reverberated through the water as a notification flashed before Colm''s eyes. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 32) Defeated. Experience Gained. Scrambling once more, Colm clawed his way to the edge and hauled himself onto the bank, retreating from the water¡¯s edge with a shiver of unease. After catching his breath, he crept cautiously back toward the stream, his curiosity outweighing his fear. Peering into the water, he glimpsed faint movement¡ªa flicker of something that looked deceptively like a harmless tree root, swaying gently in the current and he quickly cast Analyze. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 36) Colm observed the creature with interest, muttering, "This wasn¡¯t here before." It didn¡¯t take long to realize the Grove¡¯s rules had shifted since completing the trial, and he needed to stay on guard. Grateful for the earlier rest he¡¯d managed¡ªalbeit unwillingly¡ªafter passing out, Colm felt as ready as he could be now that he¡¯d eaten and had some water. Still, he wished for better sleep, but the Grove¡¯s shifting dangers left him no choice but to remain vigilant. Backing away from the water¡¯s edge, Colm retreated toward the treeline, plotting his next move. He recalled the earlier notification once again Endure and triumph to claim dominion over the Grove. The words lingered ominously in his mind, a warning of more challenges to come. As if jinxing himself, a nearby howl pierced the air, followed by the sound of branches snapping and rustling. The noise grew louder¡ªmultiple footfalls closing in fast. Colm swerved toward a nearby tree, positioning himself with his phantoms flanking him on either side, readying for the oncoming threat. Within moments, an unknown threat emerged¡ªnot just one creature, but dozens. They resembled wolves, their bodies covered in bark and vines, their glowing eyes burning with unnatural intensity. Colm inwardly cursed his luck and quickly cast Analyze, scanning only a few before the pack moved. Thornfang Wolf (Level 38) Thornfang Wolf (Level 30) Thornfang Wolf (Level 32) Thornfang Wolf (Level 37) Dismissing the descriptions, he mentally commanded his phantoms to charge. Instantly Carver and Lance surged forward while Colm tightened his grip on his spear, ready to intercept anything that slipped through. The phantoms moved with a calm, ominous precision. Carver¡¯s blade flashed as he cut through the creatures, and Lance struck with unerring precision, his spear piercing wolf after wolf. It was almost effortless; the creatures falling before them as though they were insignificant obstacles. Colm stood straighter, only then realizing how tense he¡¯d been. This is too easy, he thought, compared to the trials. These wolves were roughly his level, yet they posed no real challenge. Even the Veilthorn Strangler from a moment ago had gone down in a single blow. It¡¯s almost as if the levels are arbitrary¡ªrarely the deciding factor, he mused, his thoughts turning over this strange disparity. After a few minutes, the Thornfang Wolves lay defeated, all dispatched by his phantoms, before Colm even joined the fray. Glancing at his notifications, he took in the results. Thornfang Wolf (Level 39) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Thornfang Wolf (Level 38) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Thornfang Wolf (Level 35) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Analyze (Level 3) has increased to Analyze (Level 4) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Colm smirked, not one to complain about an easy fight¡ªespecially since it had earned him a level. He hadn¡¯t gained a level this easily since battling the Fungal Goblins earlier in the Grove. Wasting no time, he quickly allocated the stat points, prioritizing intelligence. His phantoms were his greatest asset, and he intended to keep leaning into that strength. His eyes lingered on the notification about Analyze. A rank-up in the skill was a rare occurrence. "Guess those new creatures pushed it over the threshold," he muttered, pleased at the unexpected bonus. An upgraded Analyze would certainly come in handy as the Grove¡¯s challenges continued to unfold. As his phantoms returned to his side, a rustle from the tree above caught Colm''s attention. Without hesitation, he slashed upward with his spear, impaling a serpent-like creature that blended seamlessly with the bark, its stealthy approach foiled. As he took in the sight, Lance surged into action, moving from branch to branch and swarming through the surrounding trees. The Phantom Spearman quickly dispatched other serpents that had been stalking Colm, their camouflage no match for Lance¡¯s precision with the awareness of the creature now known. Keeping Carver close for protection, Colm allowed Lance to handle the remaining threats. "How the hell did I make it this far unscathed?" he muttered. "Did the Grove give me a chance to breathe after the trial, only to throw everything at me now?" Minutes later, Lance returned to his side, his task complete. Colm took a moment to appreciate the impressive range of his Phantom Spearman¡¯s ability, estimating it to be roughly 200 feet now with how far Lance can go. "Maybe it scales with ability level and my intelligence stat?" he mused, the thought trailing off as he turned his attention to the notifications that had appeared in his vision. Barklurker (Level 36) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Barklurker (Level 35) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Barklurker (Level 39) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Grinning at the level up, Colm quickly allocated his points to intelligence, thinking this was turning into a treasure trove of progress. With a smirk, he glanced at his phantoms and quipped, "Training montage time." Chapter 21: Responding to the Grove As Colm pulled his spear from the lifeless body of a Thornfang Wolf, he dismissed the notification with barely a glance. His attention turned to his phantoms, each dominating their side of the battlefield. To his left, Carver sliced through droves of wolves with effortless precision, while Lance moved deftly among the trees, clearing out the hidden Barklurkers that threatened from above. Charging into the fray, Colm ran toward Carver. The Phantom Warrior didn¡¯t need the help, but Colm craved the thrill of combat and the chance to refine his own skills. By the time Colm reached Carver, only a few scattered wolves remained. Standing shoulder to shoulder with his phantom, Colm braced himself for the oncoming beasts. With his heightened dexterity, he effortlessly dodged their clumsy attacks, their movements far too slow to pose a real threat. A sharp grin tugged at his lips as a wolf charged him. Colm sidestepped with ease, spear in hand, and drove the blade into its side in one smooth motion. Behind him, Carver was a whirlwind of precision. The phantom parried an oncoming wolf, dodged another, and struck down a third in a fluid sequence, dictating the flow of the fight with practiced grace. Colm couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of determination watching his phantom¡¯s mastery in action. Two more wolves rushed at Colm, their snarls echoing through the trees. Colm blocked one with the shaft of his spear, twisting his body to avoid the other¡¯s snapping jaws. With a swift downward swipe, he dispatched the first beast. The second wolf lunged again, but Colm, quick on his feet, pivoted sharply and drove his spear into the creature¡¯s back, ending it with a decisive thrust. The battle raged on as the unrelenting flow of wolves continued, their numbers seemingly endless. The commotion had drawn even more beasts, turning the fight into a ceaseless onslaught. Before long, Lance rejoined the fray, having eradicated all the Barklurkers in the surrounding area. With all three of them¡ªColm, Carver, and Lance¡ªworking together, the wolves stood no chance. Their coordinated strikes were fluid and precise, cutting through the horde without resistance. As time wore on, however, Colm felt the strain. Unlike his untiring phantoms, his energy waned. Realizing he could no longer keep pace, he stepped back, allowing Carver and Lance to take over completely. They fought on relentlessly, and soon the flood of wolves dwindled to a trickle before stopping altogether. The assault had ended. Colm let out a sharp exhale, surveying the battlefield strewn with the lifeless bodies of Thornfang Wolves. The sight made him pause, his earlier adrenaline fading into a heavy, contemplative silence. This wasn¡¯t the first time he¡¯d fought for his life, nor the first time he¡¯d killed to survive in this unforgiving world. But something about this moment felt different¡ªjarring. What am I doing? He wondered, his chest tightening. I¡¯ve killed hundreds of creatures. I know it¡¯s fight or die, but this... this is changing me. The realization gnawed at him, a bitter contrast to the satisfaction he¡¯d felt moments before. Barklurker (Level 41) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Thornfang Wolf (Level 39) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Barklurker (Level 38) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. ¡­ Thornfang Wolf (Level 42) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Spear Master (Level 3) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 4) Spear Master (Level 4) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 5) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Brushing the thought aside, Colm turned his attention to the notifications, grimly focusing on the spoils of the battle. The relentless onslaught had earned him several levels. He allocated his newly gained stat points evenly, prioritizing strength and dexterity to shore up his weaker areas. Though a heavy weight lingered in his chest, he steeled himself. With his phantoms by his side, he pressed onward, ready to face whatever challenges the Grove had in store. Finally finding a reprieve, Colm made his way back to the stream, parched after the grueling battle. Along the way, he gathered more Celestial Blooms, cradling a handful as he approached the water. Once at the stream, he glanced at the surface, wary of repeating the earlier ambush. He instructed Lance to survey the area and dive in to eliminate any lurking Veilthorn Stranglers. As soon as the phantom reached the water''s edge, something pulled it under. Colm raised an eyebrow, his mind wandering. I wonder if those things can even hurt him? Their whole attack seems to rely on drowning their prey, and I doubt Lance needs air. As if on cue, a notification appeared, confirming his phantom¡¯s swift victory. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 35) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm frowned at the message. He¡¯d gained a good number of levels from the earlier onslaught, but now it seemed like many of the creatures attacking him were beneath his level. He sighed, realizing he might¡¯ve missed out on valuable experience. However, more notifications flooded his vision, interrupting his thoughts. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 39) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 31) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 37) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 38) Defeated. No Experience Gained. With a shrug, Colm dismissed the notifications and settled beneath a nearby tree, biting into the minty Celestial Blooms. Carver stood on watch while Lance continued clearing the stream of any threats. The blooms tasted fresher than usual, perhaps because he was so famished after the battle. He leaned back, chewing thoughtfully. The blooms had been a lifesaver during his time here¡ªafter going days without food during the trial; he appreciated them more than ever. These small, glowing plants had kept him alive, their minty flavor a constant companion. Still, the monotony was wearing on him. He craved variety, but gratitude tempered his longing. At least I have something, he thought, swallowing another bite. After a few minutes, the flood of notifications from Lance finally ceased, and Colm saw the phantom emerge near the water''s edge before stepping out of the stream. Feeling a newfound confidence that the area was relatively safe, he approached the water with his phantoms standing guard. Kneeling at the edge, he drank deeply. The water felt crisp and cool as it slid down his throat, a refreshing relief after the day''s battles. However, a stray thought crossed his mind: Is this still clean water, considering the creatures living¡ªand dying¡ªin it? He frowned briefly, but after a moment''s hesitation, he shrugged the thought away and cast Analyze on the stream again. Stream Water The information was the same as before, with no additional information from his increase in levels in his Analyze skill. Trusting his enhanced stats to stave off any potential issues and relying on Lingering Vitality to combat anything harmful, he reassured himself. Still, he thought, I¡¯ve been lucky so far with my guesses¡ªtoo lucky. I¡¯ve taken a lot of risks, and it¡¯s only a matter of time before that catches up to me. I really need to figure out a better survival strategy. He mentally filed the thought away for the future, should he ever find civilization. Finally feeling satiated, Colm decided it was time to find a spot to camp out. With the area cleared of beasts from the earlier battles, he felt confident that he could rest without interruption. Especially with his phantoms guarding him. Leaving the stream behind¡ªhe wasn¡¯t eager to test its lurking creatures¡ªhe scouted for a suitable spot. Soon, he found a sturdy tree that appeared to offer decent protection. He gave his phantoms their orders: Lance was to scout the surrounding area for any hidden threats, continually circling the camp, while Carver was to stay by his side at all times, never leaving his sight. With his plan in place, Colm leaned against the tree and let himself exhale the weight of the day. Almost immediately after settling down, a notification flashed across his vision. Barklurker (Level 38) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm chuckled inwardly, silently applauding Lance for staying vigilant. He sent a mental command to his phantom to keep up the good work before letting his thoughts drift. As more notifications appeared, Colm sighed, wondering if they would keep him from getting the rest he so desperately needed. Ignoring the flickering messages, he closed his eyes and willed himself to relax. Slowly, the tension faded, and his mind drifted into the edges of sleep.
Colm jolted awake to the sound of a thunderous roar, his heart pounding as a notification flickered into his vision. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Colm quickly activated his Phantom Spearman ability, re-summoning Lance just as Carver shifted into a defensive stance. The sound of loud, pounding footsteps grew closer, making Colm¡¯s heart skip a beat as he readied himself for what was coming. Through the dim light, an illuminated form emerged from the trees, and Colm cast Analyze. Glowmaw Grizzly (Level ??) Steadying himself, Colm tested the creature¡¯s abilities before fully committing. He thought about how it had dispatched Lance earlier and was determined to be more cautious this time. He commanded Carver and Lance to flank the creature, engaging it from both sides. The phantoms moved with precision, closing in swiftly. The Glowmaw Grizzly swiped at Carver with a massive paw, its agility surprising for its size. Carver blocked the strike cleanly, but the sheer force of the blow sent him flying back into a tree. Lance seized the opening, delivering a powerful thrust of his spectral spear into the creature¡¯s side before retreating quickly. The bear roared in fury, shifting its focus to Lance, but Carver was already back in the fight, slashing at the creature¡¯s flank and eliciting another enraged roar. Realizing that both phantoms working together were too much to handle directly, the grizzly adjusted its tactics. It let out a defiant roar, swiping wildly to keep both phantoms at bay. However, the multitasking slowed it down, allowing the phantoms to land small, precise strikes. Gradually, the bear was driven back against a tree, thrashing its massive weight around to off-balance its attackers. Suddenly, the creature¡¯s glow dimmed. Colm¡¯s instincts flared, and he mentally braced for a change. Carver and Lance backed off cautiously, waiting to see what would happen. Without warning, a blinding light erupted from the grizzly, searing through the darkness. Colm shielded his eyes, but in the chaos, he felt the distinct trigger of his Spectral Persistence ability. Grimacing, Colm realized the creature had used the blinding light to destroy both phantoms. However, he quickly grinned, recognizing this as the perfect opportunity to test his new ability. He commanded the lingering remnants of his phantoms to attack mercilessly while they lasted. The spectral echoes of Lance and Carver charged the grizzly, their ethereal forms impervious to its retaliatory swipes. The bear roared in frustration, its furious strikes passing harmlessly through the remnants as they landed hit after hit. Despite the grizzly¡¯s strength, the accumulated wounds proved too much. With a final pained roar, the Glowmaw Grizzly collapsed to the ground, defeated, as the spectral echoes faded. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Glowmaw Grizzly (Level 50) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Spectral Persistence (Level 1) has increased to Spectral Persistence (Level 2) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Colm grinned in satisfaction. His new passive ability had proven its worth, allowing him to finish the grizzly even after it revealed an unexpected ace. He quickly allocated his newly earned stat points, focusing on intelligence and constitution to further bolster his abilities and resilience. With his phantoms gone, Colm quickly activated Phantom Warrior and Phantom Spearman, summoning Carver and Lance back to his side. "Good job, team," he muttered with a smirk. Glancing at the Glowmaw Grizzly''s level, he noted it matched that of the Grove Stalker, yet this fight felt far easier. This supported his theory: not all levels are equal. Sure, he was much stronger now compared to when he faced the Grove Stalker, but this creature didn¡¯t seem as fast or as powerful. It had its moments, like the light bomb, but even that wasn¡¯t insurmountable. "Honestly," Colm muttered, "I could¡¯ve just let my phantoms wear it down if things got bad." The realization was comforting¡ªit showed just how far he¡¯d come in his abilities and preparation. Stretching, Colm felt ready to take on the day. After a quick meal of Celestial Blooms and a refreshing drink from the stream, he considered his next steps. Time was elusive in the Grove, with its perpetual twilight and absence of sunlight, but he figured he¡¯d rested enough. "We¡¯ll get to at least level 45," he said to his phantoms, confident he would unlock a new class ability at that milestone. Afterward, he¡¯d focus on claiming mastery over the Grove. With any luck, that would be the last challenge. Then, maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªhe could leave this place with the rewards he¡¯d earned and finally seek other people. The thought of meeting others filled him with both apprehension and hope. Chapter 22: Extinguishing the Glowmaw Colm set out from his resting spot with a clear goal: to find more Glowmaw Grizzlies. The wolves and Barklurkers weren¡¯t worth the effort anymore, with only a few providing experience above his level. He checked his status and felt a surge of pride, realizing how much he had progressed since arriving in the Grove. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 41 Dismissing the display, he began wandering through the Grove, navigating the unstable landscape left behind by the recent earthquake-like event. With no clear landmarks to guide him, Colm realized he was essentially back to exploring blindly. He¡¯d already seen most of the Grove before finishing the last trial. The only notable spot he hadn¡¯t revisited was the entrance. For now, he continued exploring this section of the Grove. Perhaps there were more creatures to challenge here¡ªor even another part of the Grove waiting to reveal itself. If not, he¡¯d head back to the entrance and hope something had changed. Hours passed as Colm wandered through the dense forest, occasionally scaling trees to gain a better vantage point. Finally, in the distance, he spotted a faint glow cutting through the shadows¡ªa telltale sign of a Glowmaw Grizzly. His excitement surged as he activated Stealth, creeping toward the light. Reaching the edge of a clearing, Colm spotted the creature. It was alone, drinking from a stream, its bioluminescent veins casting an eerie glow on the water''s surface. He quickly devised a plan. "Carver, engage it head-on," Colm whispered. "Lance, flank it and strike from behind. Once it¡¯s distracted, I¡¯ll move in for a finishing blow." Carver looped around the clearing, his spectral form moving silently until he stood opposite the grizzly. As if sensing the challenge, the bear let out a ferocious roar and charged, its massive form hurtling toward Carver. The phantom deftly dodged its heavy swipes, keeping the creature''s attention fixed on him. Meanwhile, Lance slipped behind the grizzly unnoticed, his movements fluid and precise. In one swift motion, he drove his spectral spear deep into the beast¡¯s side. The grizzly let out a guttural roar, staggering from the blow, and Carver seized the opening. His spectral blade struck the creature¡¯s head with devastating force, felling the beast in an instant. Colm blinked as the notification appeared in his vision. Glowmaw Grizzly (Level 52) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. He sighed, somewhat disappointed he hadn¡¯t gotten the chance to fight. "My phantoms are my weapon," he muttered, reminding himself of the path he¡¯d chosen. At least the strategy worked, and he gained a level and allocated the points towards intelligence. Still, he couldn¡¯t shake the nagging desire to hone his skills directly. Next time, he thought, gripping his spear. As Colm continued his search for more Glowmaw Grizzlies, his thoughts drifted to his future as a fighter. He¡¯d used the spear out of necessity, as he didn¡¯t want to be completely defenseless while his phantoms were out of range. But did he truly want to be in the thick of battle, fighting toe-to-toe? He considered the alternatives. With a world full of magic at his fingertips and phantoms under his command, wouldn¡¯t it make more sense to focus on long-range spells, keeping his distance while his phantoms did the heavy lifting? Yet, the thought of running out of mana and being surrounded by enemies made him shudder. I guess it¡¯ll depend on what abilities I unlock next, he thought. The next set of class choices will help direct my path. For now, I¡¯ll focus on surviving and sharpening my instincts. Lost in thought, Colm realized he¡¯d been wandering aimlessly for a few minutes. Spotting a tall tree nearby, he had Lance clear out any Barklurkers lurking among its branches before climbing to the top. From the treetop, he scanned the forest and spotted a faint glow shimmering in the distance. Smirking, he climbed back down and set off toward it. The journey took some time, as he frequently had to stop and fend off packs of Thornfang Wolves, but eventually, the glow of a grizzly came into view through the trees. This time, the scene was different. The Glowmaw Grizzly wasn¡¯t alone¡ªover three dozen Thornfang Wolves surrounded it. Colm paused, watching in fascination as the creatures clashed. Interesting. They¡¯re fighting each other. This is the first time I¡¯ve seen this. I wonder why. The wolves charged at the massive grizzly, only to be met with devastating swipes of its glowing, moss-covered paws. A single blow sent wolves flying, but while it focused on the ones in front, others lunged from behind, sinking their teeth into its thick hide. The grizzly roared in fury, twisting to deal with the new attackers, and within moments, the fight turned into a brutal slaughter. The wolves'' numbers rapidly thinned as the grizzly tore through them, but the massive beast was clearly growing weary. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. As the remaining dozen wolves realized their defeat was imminent, they cut their losses and fled into the forest. Colm watched them retreat, a thoughtful frown on his face. These creatures are smarter than I gave them credit for. With the grizzly wounded and tired, Colm decided it was time to act. He sent his phantoms into the fray. Carver was the first to engage, striding boldly toward the beast and rolling to evade its powerful but sluggish swipes. A few moments later, Lance crept up from behind, delivering a precise, fatal strike with his spectral spear. The grizzly staggered, leaving an opening for Carver to unleash a flurry of attacks. It wasn¡¯t long before the creature fell, the familiar notification clouding Colm¡¯s vision. Glowmaw Grizzly (Level 56) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Colm sighed, frowning at the lack of a level up. This was the highest-level enemy I¡¯ve fought so far, he thought, so why didn¡¯t I level up? Reflecting on the battle, he theorized, Maybe it¡¯s because the wolves weakened the grizzly and I didn''t do the bulk of the damage? I feel like I¡¯m close to leveling up, though. One more like this might do it. Colm glanced down at the lifeless grizzly. His strategy of using one phantom to distract while the other delivered a killing blow was proving effective. He resolved to refine a more complex style further in the future after he had time to fully process what he was going to do in this new world. With a renewed sense of purpose, he prepared to hunt for his next target.
Over the next few days, Colm settled into a steady and efficient routine. Dedicating most of his time to hunting Glowmaw Grizzlies, although he spent the most time simply tracking them down. Packs of Thornfang Wolves frequently swarmed him, and he remained vigilant for Barklurkers hiding in the trees. Though he no longer gained experience from either creature, their persistent attacks were more of an annoyance than a challenge. Fortunately, his phantoms handled the threats with ease, never requiring his intervention. At the end of each day, Colm would find a spot to rest, usually near a stream¡ªbut not too close, to avoid the Veilthorn Stranglers lurking beneath the water¡¯s surface. He¡¯d order his phantoms to clear the area before drinking his fill, then settle down with a hearty helping of his trusty Celestial Blooms. As always, his phantoms stood guard, one patrolling the perimeter while the other remained by his side. Each morning, Colm woke to a flood of notifications: slain Thornfang Wolves, Barklurkers, and, occasionally, even a Glowmaw Grizzly. Those ones in particular were a testament to how far his phantoms had come. What once required coordination and effort was now something they could handle entirely on their own. He couldn¡¯t help but marvel at how drastically the dynamic had shifted since his first encounter with the grizzlies, when their mere presence had jolted him awake in fear. Still, the ease with which he slept through the chaos gave him pause. Am I being reckless? Or do I trust my phantoms so completely that my instincts no longer sound the alarm? He shook the thought off, focusing instead on the progress he was making. As the hunts continued, tracking the elusive Glowmaw Grizzlies grew increasingly challenging. Their numbers had always felt sparse, and after so many battles, they now seemed almost impossible to find. Colm developed a methodical routine: climbing a tall tree to scan for faint glows in the distance, the telltale sign of a grizzly. On lucky days, he¡¯d spot one quickly, but when the forest offered no clues, he¡¯d mark another tall tree further ahead and repeat the process. Over time, he honed his instincts, learning to read subtle signs in the Grove to guide him in the right direction. Gradually, his path arced back toward the Grove¡¯s entrance. He had long since reached what he thought of as the boundary of the Grove¡ªa stretch of impossibly dense trees. These were no ordinary trees; their surfaces were impervious to his spear or even his phantoms'' strikes, as though enchanted by some unseen force. It felt like a magical barrier, a silent but unmistakable message that he could not pass beyond the Grove¡¯s bounds. Colm spent a good day experimenting with the Grove¡¯s mysterious border. It was captivating in its own way¡ªa clear boundary to an otherwise sprawling, self-contained world. He tried climbing over the dense trees, only to feel a physical barrier, like an invisible hand pushing him back. It felt eerily similar to the invisible walls in some games he¡¯d played, and the comparison fueled a stubborn determination to find a way through. He spent hours testing every angle, looking for gaps or glitches, hoping to uncover what lay beyond. But no matter what he tried, the system seemed resolute: You can¡¯t go over there. Eventually, he accepted defeat, resigning himself to the confines of the Grove. With a wry smile, he turned his attention back to his hunt and his grind toward the level he aimed to reach. One particular evening, after slaying an especially vicious Glowmaw Grizzly, Colm felt the weight of his efforts. The battle had been tough¡ªthe Glowmaw Grizzly destroyed his phantoms, but their spectral persistence lingered long enough for them to finish the creature before they fully faded. As Colm stared down at the fallen beast, he couldn¡¯t help but wonder why he was pushing himself so hard. He could¡¯ve gone straight to the Grove¡¯s entrance by now, but the memory of the trials weighed heavily on him. Each had nearly killed him. If the Will of the Grove awaited him as a last test¡ªand he was certain it did¡ªhe needed to be ready. His gaze drifted to his status screen, his level tantalizingly close to 45. If his theory was correct, reaching that threshold would grant him a new ability, something that might make the difference between survival and death. Colm exhaled deeply, his resolve hardening. Just a little further. I have to be prepared. After defeating what he estimated to be his twelfth grizzly, a familiar surge of warmth coursed through him, accompanied by the notifications he¡¯d been waiting for. Glowmaw Grizzly (Level 58) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. New class abilities available. Sighing with relief, Colm confirmed his hunch. Every fifteen levels brought a new class ability. Before long, he¡¯d have all his abilities set for his class. Yet, the thought stirred curiosity. What happens when they¡¯re all filled out? he wondered. Will I still get new ability offerings, or will they stop entirely? Could I replace abilities down the road? He shook his head, brushing the questions aside. "Something to figure out later," he muttered. With a small smile, he opened his notifications, allocated his stat points, and eagerly began reviewing the new ability options presented to him. Chapter 23: Decision Time New class abilities available. Select a new Class Active Ability. Active Ability: Spectral Bolt (Level 1) Mana: 10 Conjures a bolt of spectral energy that streaks toward a distant enemy with a haunting, ethereal glow. Upon impact, the bolt deals moderate damage and leaves a chilling effect, sapping the target¡¯s agility and reducing their movement speed for a short duration. Active Ability: Phantom Step (Level 1) Mana: 30 Allows the user to move a short distance with significantly increased speed, making it ideal for dodging incoming attacks, closing the gap between foes, or retreating to safety. While phased, they leave behind a faint trail of spectral energy, briefly disorienting nearby enemies and creating a lingering afterimage that draws attention away from their actual position. Active Ability: Phantom Archer (Level 1) Mana: 25 Summons a spectral archer equipped with a longbow, capable of firing precise, ethereal arrows. The arrows deal moderate damage and can pierce through multiple enemies in a line. Only one Phantom Archer can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current Archer. Active Ability: Phantom Pack (Level 1) Mana: 60 Summons three smaller, wolf-like phantoms that act as a group. The pack specializes in overwhelming enemies with coordinated attacks, causing extra damage if all three target the same foe. The phantoms are fragile but highly mobile. Only one pack can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another pack will replace the current pack. Active Ability: Wraithburst (Level 1) Mana: 15 Charges a phantom¡¯s next attack to release an explosion of spectral energy upon impact. The attack deals bonus area-of-effect damage and applies a spectral burn, slowly draining health from all enemies hit. Colm studied the abilities laid out before him, taking a moment to process his options. Two were familiar¡ªSpectral Bolt and Phantom Step¡ªstill available from his last selection. This confirmed a reassuring pattern: older abilities stayed in the pool, meaning he could revisit them if he changed his mind later. The fresh additions were tempting. Two offered more phantoms, which aligned perfectly with his focus on summoning. But the last option, Wraithburst, stood out¡ªan ability to buff a phantom¡¯s next attack, enhancing its power and unleashing an area-of-effect blast. The potential for AOE damage immediately appealed to him, especially after the endless waves of Thornfang Wolves he¡¯d faced. "That would¡¯ve made quick work of those packs," he muttered, envisioning the chaos it could bring. Spectral Bolt offered him a reliable long-range magical attack¡ªsomething he lacked and could easily see himself using in countless scenarios, but the Phantom Archer did the same and added another phantom to his arsenal and benefited from his passive. Meanwhile, Phantom Step gave him mobility and a much-needed escape tool. All of them were practical, and choosing between them was a headache. He sat down, his spear resting across his lap, and rubbed his temples. "What do I want?" he murmured aloud. Do I want to shoot magic from my fingertips? Summon more phantoms? Get the hell out of danger when I need to? His mind drifted to moments from the trials. Phantom Step could¡¯ve made dodging the Stone Gnawer¡¯s spikes effortless. Phantom Archer might¡¯ve helped kite the Grove Stalker from a safe distance. Wraithburst could¡¯ve been perfect for forcing the Wraithvine Serpent out of hiding. Every ability had its strengths, and every fight seemed to highlight what he didn¡¯t have. "Shit," he grumbled, letting out a sharp exhale. "Too many choices. Can I just pick all of them?" The humor in his voice did little to mask his frustration. What mattered most now, he reasoned, was preparing for the immediate future. The Grove had shifted after the trial, and the ominous warning from the Will of the Grove still loomed. If he faced a climactic fight next, he needed an edge¡ªnot something that would be useful later, but something that could make the difference right now. That thought sharpened his focus. "Alright," Colm said, "Time to narrow it down." Colm studied Spectral Bolt one final time. Between it and Phantom Archer, the latter edged ahead. It gave him the long-range option he needed while adding another phantom to his arsenal. "I guess no magic bolts for me¡ªfor now," he muttered sadly. Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site. Then there was Phantom Step. Its utility was undeniable¡ªit could save him from a killing blow or help him reposition in the heat of battle. "This would keep me alive," he reasoned. "But I''d have to be quick and reactive to make the most of it. If I don¡¯t pick it now, it¡¯s definitely on my list for next time." He turned to Phantom Pack. The thought of overwhelming an opponent with numbers was tempting¡ªafter all, it was already his primary strategy. With his two current phantoms, he already outnumbered most foes three to one and the wolves it offered seemed brittle based on the description. Would they really add much? he wondered. "I¡¯m already dominating melee range," he reasoned. "And the pack might just be overkill." Finally, Wraithburst loomed as the most tactical option. A devastating ability to empower a phantom¡¯s attack and create an explosive AOE effect¡ªit screamed raw power. But Colm hesitated. "If I pick this, my time with the spear might be over," he mused aloud. He could already imagine himself focusing entirely on positioning and timing, the ability to maximize its effect. "And it looks like it¡¯s better for group fights, anyway. Most of the time, I¡¯m facing one high-level opponent." After weighing the pros and cons of each ability, Colm narrowed it down to two. He turned to Carver and Lance, the spectral figures waiting silently at his side. "Okay, team," he said with a smirk. "It¡¯s between Phantom Step and Phantom Archer. I need the mobility to survive if something gets too close, but another phantom with ranged damage would be a great asset. What do you two think?" The phantoms, of course, said nothing, but their presence steadied him as he prepared to make his choice. Colm rose to his feet, resolve hardening, as he decided. "We¡¯re going with the Archer," he declared to his phantoms, his voice firm. A surge of power coursed through him, and he felt a subtle shift¡ªlike a puzzle piece clicking into place within his being. Pulling up his status sheet, he eagerly reviewed the changes, anticipation bubbling beneath his calm demeanor. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 45 Health: 850 / 850 Mana: 575 / 575 Strength: 50 (57) Dexterity: 50 (57) Intelligence: 100 (115) Constitution: 71 (85) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 10) [Carver] - Phantom Spearman (Level 9) [Lance] - Phantom Archer (Level 1) - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 8) - Spectral Persistence (Level 2) - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 4) - Stealth (Level 7) - Pain Resistance (Level 7) - Hardened Skin (Level 3) - Slash Resistance (Level 4) - Spear Mastery (Level 5) - Sprint Mastery (Level 10) - Poison Resistance (Level 6) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Blessing of the Grove As Colm reviewed his status sheet, a sense of satisfaction settled over him. His decision felt right¡ªhe now had an elite team at his command, ready to shore up his weaknesses and adapt to any challenge. His stats had grown impressively, with his intelligence surpassing 100 points thanks to his achievements. His gaze shifted back to the Phantom Archer ability, noting its lack of a proper name compared to Lance and Carver. Turning to his two phantoms, he smirked. "Guess we need to name the fresh meat, don¡¯t we? Any suggestions?" he asked, half-expecting silence but enjoying the thought of completing his trio with another fitting moniker. Thinking things through, Colm spoke aloud to his phantoms. "You know, we could call it Mark¡ªfor marksman!" He chuckled at his own joke before rattling off more ideas. "Bowen, Nock, Stringer, Quill, Volley, Fletch¡­" His eyes lit up. "Ooh, I know! We¡¯ll name it Robin!" he exclaimed. Satisfied with his choice, he glanced at his status screen and grinned as the system officially recognized the name. I must be going a little crazy, but hey, I¡¯ve got three new friends here, he thought. With the naming settled, Colm turned his focus to his new ability. Feeling the familiar drain of his mana, he watched as his new phantom ally took form. In moments, Robin stood before him, bow in hand. The archer¡¯s appearance mirrored Lance and Carver¡ªa featureless humanoid spirit with glowing eyes that seemed to scan its surroundings with sharp precision. Eager to test his new phantom, Colm commanded, "Robin, fire at that tree." Without hesitation, the archer pulled back its bowstring, a spectral arrow materializing in the bow¡¯s grip. With a swift release, the arrow streaked through the air, a solid THUNK echoing as it embedded itself halfway into the tree trunk. Colm blinked in awe. The sheer speed and power of the attack left him elated. "Alright, let¡¯s see what you can really do," Colm said, pointing toward the trees. "Scout for Barklurkers." Robin moved without delay, drawing another arrow in one fluid motion. The spectral bow hummed softly as the arrow materialized, loosing with a sharp SNAP. Colm turned just in time to see the arrow disappear into the dense branches, and almost immediately, a notification flashed before his eyes. Barklurker (Level 39) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm burst out laughing. "I didn¡¯t even see that! You must have incredible eyesight, huh, Robin? Makes sense since you¡¯re an archer. Well, that settles it. You¡¯re officially on lookout duty. Let¡¯s test how far apart we can be from one another first. After that, keep your distance, provide long-range support, and protect me if anything gets too close." After some quick testing, Colm determined Robin¡¯s range from him to be about 100 feet¡ªabout half the range of Carver and Lance¡¯s. This supported his earlier theory that distance apart was tied to ability level and the intelligence stat. Thinking back, when he first gained the Phantom Warrior ability, its range was only about 50 feet. With the distance sorted, Robin silently moved to a better vantage point, fading slightly into the shadows of the trees while remaining within the range the ability permitted. Colm¡¯s grin widened as he turned his gaze back to the forest. "This is going to be good," he said, excitement crackling in his voice. Laughing to himself, his voice echoed through the grove. "We¡¯re just getting started!" Chapter 24: Returning to the Entrance After his spree of fighting Glowmaw Grizzlies, the subsequent level ups, and new ability testing, Colm decided it was time for a breather. He returned to one stream he had passed earlier, and he found a little comfy patch of dirt and made it his resting spot. He tasked Robin with clearing the stream of any lurking dangers and securing the location, had Lance patrol the surrounding area, and kept Carver stationed nearby on bodyguard duty. Glancing through the notifications from Robin¡¯s efforts, Colm noticed the Phantom Archer ability had already ranked up twice from the activity. "Makes sense that the early levels rank up fast, especially if it¡¯s taking out higher-level enemies," he muttered. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 39) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 37) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Veilthorn Strangler (Level 35) Defeated. No Experience Gained. ... Veilthorn Strangler (Level 38) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Phantom Archer (Level 1) is now Phantom Archer (Level 2) Phantom Archer (Level 2) is now Phantom Archer (Level 3) Satisfied, Colm dismissed the notifications and settled down. He ate his fill of Celestial Blooms, drank deeply from the stream, and went to lean against a nearby tree. The soothing sound of flowing water accompanied the occasional THWACK of Robin loosing arrows in the distance, followed by the familiar chime of more notifications. Barklurker (Level 35) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Barklurker (Level 34) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Barklurker (Level 37) Defeated. No Experience Gained. ... Barklurker (Level 32) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Phantom Archer (Level 3) is now Phantom Archer (Level 4) Colm chuckled, shaking his head. "I love being a summoner. At this rate, Robin might hit Level 10 by the time I wake up." With that, he dismissed the notifications, closed his eyes, and let sleep take him. Hours later, Colm awoke, feeling refreshed, and immediately faced a flood of notifications. Barklurker (Level 37) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Thornfang Wolf (Level 39) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Barklurker (Level 37) Defeated. No Experience Gained. ... Veilthorn Strangler (Level 33) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Phantom Archer (Level 4) is now Phantom Archer (Level 5) Phantom Archer (Level 5) is now Phantom Archer (Level 6) He let out a quiet laugh as he reviewed the messages, impressed by Robin¡¯s effectiveness. "Robin really put in the work," he muttered, though a small pang of frustration lingered. The lack of experience from the weaker creatures was feeling like wasted effort, even if it kept him safe while he rested. Pushing aside the notifications, Colm stretched, his body still grateful for the reprieve. His eyes settled on Carver, standing vigil at his side, the phantom¡¯s unwavering presence as steady as always. Nodding in quiet appreciation, Colm reflected on how fortunate he was to have his spectral allies. Sure, I may not have the power to fling firebolts from my hands¡ªat least, not yet, he thought with a smirk. But I can summon incredibly strong phantoms to protect me essentially permanently and attack my enemies. He chuckled softly, a memory surfacing. It¡¯s like one of those games I used to play back home. Didn¡¯t one of them have spirits that mimicked you? That¡¯d be useless here. I¡¯m so much weaker than mine. Shaking his head at his own joke, he glanced at his phantoms again. "You all really are my lifeline," he murmured, his voice filled with gratitude. For the first time since arriving in this hostile, alien world, he felt a sense of calm and security. It wasn¡¯t perfect, but it was a comfort he hadn¡¯t expected¡ªand one worth cherishing. Colm allowed his phantoms to continue running on autopilot¡ªCarver by his side as a vigilant bodyguard, while Lance and Robin patrolled the surrounding area. Occasional notifications of defeated creatures flickered in his vision, but he barely spared them a glance, trusting his phantoms to handle any threats. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. He went about his morning routine, eating his fill of Celestial Blooms and drinking deeply from the nearby stream. The familiar minty taste of the blooms, while monotonous, gave him the energy he needed to focus on the day ahead. With the area thoroughly explored and no new leads, Colm decided it was time to return to the entrance of the Grove. He couldn¡¯t shake the hope that the entrance would hold the Grove¡¯s final challenge. If it didn¡¯t, though, he was tempted to leave regardless. He had been here long enough, gained incredible rewards, and grown far stronger. But more than anything, he wanted to find people. Spear in hand and phantoms at the ready, Colm set off, preparing himself for the long trek back. The journey had taken considerable time when he first arrived, with every step weighed down by caution and the uncertainty of this strange land. Now, things were different. He had faced and conquered most of what the Grove had thrown at him, and his phantoms were more than capable of dealing with the remaining smaller threats. Starting at a brisk run, Colm quickly gained speed, his enhanced stats allowing him to cover incredible distances. Despite the uneven ground, cracked earth, and fallen trees, he maintained his pace, darting through the terrain with ease. The wind whipped past him, and a grin spread across his face as he felt the power of his own body¡ªhis strength, speed, and agility coming together in perfect harmony. Through the blur of trees, he caught glimpses of Lance and Robin patrolling the larger perimeter, seamlessly keeping pace with him. A quick glance at Carver reassured him that his closest guardian was ready to dispatch any threats that dared come too close. Confidence surged through him. With his phantoms protecting him and his own skills honed sharper than ever, he felt unstoppable. Colm¡¯s path brought him back to the first temple he had stumbled upon in the Grove¡ªthe Temple of Stone as he called it. A wave of nostalgia washed over him as he glanced up at the simple structure. This was where it had all started: his first major challenge, his first brush with death, and his first encounter with a creature wielding magic. He had learned and grown so much since then, but the memory of that trial lingered, sharp and vivid. Taking a moment to reflect, Colm studied the building. It was still small and unassuming, nothing about it outwardly foreboding. He hesitated at the entrance, debating whether to move on, but curiosity gnawed at him. The mention of the Will of the Grove earlier had left him wondering if anything inside had changed. Grabbing a handful of Sunlit Petals to light his way, he stepped inside. The first room remained bathed in a soft glow, the same as it had been after he finished the trial, projecting familiar shadows onto the walls. Colm¡¯s eyes went immediately to the mural¡ªthe same piece that had revealed the existence of another trial and hinted at the Grove Stalker. It was unchanged, just as he remembered it. But as he moved deeper into the room, an additional detail hit him hard: the stench. It was foul, almost unbearable, and Colm realized why as he ventured toward the chamber where he had fought the Stone Gnawer. The decomposed remains of rats and the Stone Gnawer littered the room, their twisted, decayed forms a stark reminder of what had transpired. Plugging his nose, he took a steadying breath and stepped forward, holding the glowing petals as a makeshift lantern. The sight gave him pause. It hit differently now, seeing the aftermath of his actions. This is what my growth cost, he thought grimly, looking around the darkened space. He eased through the room, the sense of foreboding growing with each step. But nothing was out of place. The stone pillar stood as it had before, unmarked and unchanged. No new inscriptions or signs awaited him. With a heavy sigh, Colm turned and left the temple. His chest felt tight, burdened by a deeper understanding of the path he was walking. His growth came at the expense of others, even if they were creatures that attacked him first. This was the world he lived in now¡ªone where survival demanded sacrifices, and progress had a cost. With the weight of his growth bearing down on him, Colm struggled to resume his pace. This world isn¡¯t like Earth, he thought. Here, the strong survive, and the weak are just fuel for the strong. I knew that, but it¡¯s harder to accept once it really sinks in. He sighed, his thoughts spiraling. Sure, growing up, I fantasized about having magic¡ªcasting firebolts, slaying monsters attacking my town. But living it? That¡¯s something else entirely. How many nights did I fall asleep dreaming of suddenly gaining powers like this? And now that it¡¯s real, I can¡¯t stop wondering: If magic existed on Earth, what would it have been like? He ran a hand through his hair, his gaze distant. What happened here to make this world like this? Was the system always around? Do people just accept it? He exhaled sharply, his rant ending as he flopped onto his back, trying to process the enormity of it all. Eventually, Colm pushed himself back to his feet, shoved his thoughts back and pushed to keep moving. The thought of nearing the Grove¡¯s entrance was tantalizingly close and drove him forward. He had spent so long here, enduring a whirlwind of emotions he never imagined he¡¯d face. The hardest, by far, had been the creeping madness during the second trial¡ªthe oppressive isolation, the darkness, and the relentless Wraithvine Serpent. He had never thought he¡¯d feel such profound despair, but the hunger, thirst, and crushing solitude had pushed him to the very edge of his endurance. In a hushed whisper, he said to himself, "I¡¯ve learned a lot here. This world. Myself. What I¡¯m capable of." His voice carried a note of determination as he pressed forward. "I just hope I keep these lessons with me because something tells me this is only the beginning of my journey." After another two hours at a brisk pace, Colm recognized the surroundings. The trees grew greener, and more flora adorned the landscape, subtly brightening his path. He knew he was close. The day had been long, and thoughts of leaving the Grove had consumed his mind¡ªthe weight of his journey and the cost of his growth. Deciding it would be best to rest and gather his strength for the potential challenge ahead, he searched for a safe place to spend the night. Before long, he found a stream and settled into his routine. Robin cleared out any lurking threats while Lance began patrolling the area. Notifications of defeated Veilthorn Stranglers, Barklurkers, and even a Fungal Goblin soon crowd his vision. Colm dismissed them quickly, trusting his phantoms to keep the area safe. Once Robin finished, he approached the stream, drinking deeply from the cool, crisp water. Feeling refreshed, he moved to a spot a short distance from the stream and lay down. Carver stood steadfast nearby, his spectral presence a comforting guard. As Colm stared up at the dark canopy, thoughts of leaving the Grove swirled in his mind. For weeks, he had suppressed the isolation gnawing at him, but now, on the verge of escape, it surfaced. The idea of finding other people kept him going, yet doubt crept in. What if there were no people nearby? What if the world beyond the Grove was as desolate and filled with undead as the one he''d first encountered? The weight of these questions pressed on him, but he forced himself to focus on the immediate future. Whether he would face the Will of the Grove or finally leave this place behind, Colm steeled himself. Tomorrow would bring answers, and he would be ready. With his resolve firm and his mind settling on the goal ahead, his eyes closed, and he slowly drifted into sleep. Chapter 25: The Will of the Grove Colm woke to a flurry of notifications flashing in his vision, all reporting slain creatures. None of them granted any experience. "Guess this is my new normal," he grumbled, rubbing his eyes as he sat up. Feeling rested and ready, he didn¡¯t want to waste any time. With a quick mental command, he signaled his phantoms¡ªit was time to move. Carver, as always, stood vigil by his side, while Lance and Robin returned promptly from their patrols. Together, the four figures set off toward the Grove¡¯s entrance. Trees and branches blurred past as Colm picked up his pace, excitement and eagerness driving him forward. He disregarded any lingering thoughts of final rewards or treasures. All he wanted was to leave this place, to escape this isolation, and to find someone¡ªanyone¡ªto talk to. Before long, he arrived at a familiar clearing. It was the spot where he and Carver had spent their first days in the Grove. He paused, his eyes scanning the area, memories flooding back. He remembered how na?ve he had been then¡ªstill was, in some ways¡ªbut at least now, he knew more about this world and himself. His thoughts lingered on his first sparring session with Carver, a faint smile tugging at his lips. An idea struck him. I should spar with Robin sometime, too, he mused, mentally filing the thought away for the future. With a deep breath, he pushed forward, leaving the clearing and its memories behind. The entrance was near, and with it, whatever awaited him next. A sense of exhilaration surged through Colm as a shimmering rift glimmered in the distance. I can see it! He thought, heart pounding. The same rift¡ªthe portal¡ªthat he came through after escaping the undead was still there, just as vivid as the day he first arrived. "I''m leaving! Fuck yes!" he shouted, breaking into a sprint. Each step brought the rift closer, his mind spinning with the thought of finally leaving this Echo. Months had passed since he appeared in the Grove, and he couldn''t recall the exact time, but he knew it had been a long time. It didn¡¯t matter. What mattered was freedom. This place had been a crucible, a trial by fire that had forged him into something stronger. It had given him skills, endurance, and resolve. But now, the thought of finding other people, of reconnecting with humanity, overshadowed any gratitude he felt for the Grove. Within a hundred feet of the portal, everything shifted. The air grew sharp, heavy with an oppressive tension that pricked his skin. His pace faltered for a heartbeat, but the desire to escape overrode his caution. He pushed forward, sprinting toward the rift, desperate to leave this world behind. He barely registered that he hadn¡¯t yet reached the Grove¡¯s true end or confronted the entity that watched over it. All he could think of was leaving¡ªof reclaiming his sanity after so much isolation. Suddenly, the light in the Grove dimmed. The portal¡ªhis salvation¡ªflickered and faded, like a candle snuffed out in the dark. Colm¡¯s chest tightened, frustration boiling over as he skidded to a stop at the portal¡¯s former location. "FUCK!" he roared, his voice echoing through the silent Grove. His hands balled into fists, trembling with fury and desperation as his eyes darted around, searching for answers. Yet the rift was gone, leaving only the same heavy tension that clung to the air like a storm waiting to break. As he turned to scan his surroundings, something took shape behind him. The Grove¡¯s oppressive silence deepened, amplifying the sound of his heartbeat. Slowly, Colm pivoted to face the forming figure. It looked humanoid, but hauntingly unnatural. Its skin appeared to be made of bark, rough and weathered, while its clothes seemed woven from leaves and vines. The creature lacked any discernible features¡ªno facial features, no eyes¡ªjust an eerily blank visage that radiated a quiet, menacing presence. Colm stared, his instincts screaming at him to act. Forcing himself to focus, he used Analyze, directing his skill at the figure before him. Will of the Grove (Level ???) Shit. The thought stumbled through Colm¡¯s racing mind, his heart pounding. The level result from Analyze was unlike anything he¡¯d ever seen before. Three question marks for the level. Does that mean it¡¯s in the triple digits? His stomach churned at the implication. The highest-level creature he had ever faced was in the upper fifties, and even then, he had learned that level wasn¡¯t everything. Some monsters had abilities or sheer force that rendered their level almost irrelevant. But this was something else entirely. The presence emanating from the figure was overwhelming, saturating the air with a palpable weight of power. Every instinct in his body screamed at him to run, but his legs felt rooted to the ground. The shock coursing through him left no room for denial¡ªthis thing was leagues beyond anything he had encountered. Fear gripped him, raw and unrelenting. As his thoughts spiraled, his phantoms stood firm by his side, their silent forms unwavering even in the face of this impossible foe. Colm¡¯s mind churned, desperately trying to come up with a plan. I can¡¯t fight this. I can¡¯t run either. The portal¡ªthe only way out¡ªwas gone, snuffed out like a cruel joke. If this entity was truly the Will of the Grove, then escape wasn¡¯t an option. It would track him no matter where he fled. Would it even let me run? He wondered. The thought seemed laughable. Whatever this thing was, it was undoubtedly faster, stronger, and smarter. A sudden, deafening reverberation that echoed through the Grove shattered his frantic planning. The air seemed to split apart, a piercing sound wave that sent Colm to his knees, clutching his ears as blood trickled from them. Pain seared through his head, disorienting him further. This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it Through the haze of agony, he felt the faint nudge of his Universal Language perk, a subtle shift in his perception as words took form amidst the chaos. The sound resolved into a voice, calm and deliberate, yet carrying an undeniable power. "Hello, Colm Arden." The words hung in the air like a judgment, chilling him to his core.
The scene before Colm remained unchanged, the featureless creature standing silently, as though waiting for a response. Colm remained on his knees, overwhelmed. These were the first words he had heard from another being in what felt like an eternity. The power in the creature¡¯s voice had forced him to the ground, not through violence but through sheer presence. For a moment, he stayed there, stunned and grappling with the weight of the encounter. But he refused to let the fear that gripped him hold sway any longer. With a deep, steadying breath, Colm pushed himself to his feet. This world is going to be full of surprises, he thought, his resolve solidifying. And I¡¯ll bet there are countless things just as powerful¡ªor more so¡ªthan this one. I can¡¯t let one high-level creature shake me to my core. At least this one seems to want to talk. As he finally straightened, Colm locked his eyes on the being and spoke, his voice calm but cautious. "Who are you?" The Will of the Grove responded immediately, its tone steady, almost conversational. Its featureless face seemed to shift subtly, as if forming a smile. "I am the Will of the Grove," it said, its voice softer now, as though aware of the power its voice carried. Spreading its bark-like arms, the being gestured to the forest, the Grove, and all that surrounded them. "I am the Lucent Grove personified. This is my domain, and I wield absolute control over all that occurs here. Every blade of grass, every grain of dirt, every tree, and every creature¡ªall are of my design and subject to my will." Colm stood rooted, the weight of the creature¡¯s words settling over him as he tried to process what he was hearing. The Will continued, its voice carrying an ancient, weary cadence. "No being has walked these lands for a long time. I sealed my entrance ages ago, after thousands passed through, each revealing their true nature. Their actions left me disillusioned, distrustful. So, I closed my door to this world." The creature paused, as if considering its next words. Then it continued, a note of curiosity lacing its tone. "But then I sensed something¡ªa powerful magical fluctuation near my threshold, unlike anything I had felt before. I opened the doorway once more and sensed you. At first, I believed this would be the last time I allowed an outsider into my domain. But as I observed you, I became intrigued." Colm swallowed hard, uncertain where this was leading, but he stayed silent, letting the Will finish. "I watched you learn and grow," the Will of the Grove said, its voice measured and reflective. "I listened to every conversation you shared with your ''Phantoms,'' as you call them. I observed your struggles, your determination, and the strength you gained along the way. You are not of this world, and your perspective is unlike any I have encountered before. Whether this difference stems from your nature, the circumstances that brought you here, or the isolation you''ve endured remains unclear. But one thing is certain¡ªyou gave me something I thought I had lost. Hope." The creature¡¯s tone softened, tinged with a quiet introspection. "I ensured you had food and clean water, so you would not succumb to the most basic needs. I wanted you to endure, to see if you could thrive here." Colm opened his mouth to respond, but the Will continued, as though compelled to speak its truths before time ran out. "Those who came before shattered my trust. Their greed, their cruelty, their deceit¡ªI learned the harshness of their ways and sealed my domain to them. I no longer wished for my lands to be tainted. So, I turned to the wilderness I could create¡ªthe rabbits that frolicked through my woods, the squirrels that climbed my trees, and the countless others who lived without cruelty or ambition. Their simple joy was enough. I told myself I was content." The figure paused, its bark-like form shifting as if caught between old sorrow and quiet contemplation. "Then you arrived and reminded me of what I once longed for." "You do not tread lightly. You hunt, you fight, and you seek power. You push forward without hesitation, cutting down those that stand in your way. In that, you do not differ from the ones who came before." The Will''s presence wavered slightly, as though the weight of its words carried an unspoken burden. "And yet¡­ I have seen no reckless destruction. You have not sought to burn the land behind you, nor raze what you could not use. Your strength is sharpened by purpose, not mindless conquest. You seek to grow, not to hoard. Perhaps that is enough." The surrounding air grew heavier, as if the land itself was holding its breath. "Perhaps it must be enough." It straightened, its presence solidifying despite the soft whisper of time pulling it away. "I am bound to this domain, unable to expand or act beyond what is permitted. My power is finite, and my time is short. Your arrival and success in my trials have allowed this meeting¡ªbut it will not last." The weight of the Grove¡¯s decision seemed to press upon them both. "I do not know what you will become. I do not know if you are worthy. But I cannot afford to wait centuries more for another. You are here. And so, I will place my final test before you." The Will¡¯s voice carried an ancient certainty now, a quiet acceptance of its own risk. "Before I fade, I offer you one last trial¡ªa chance to prove your worth beyond the challenges you have already faced. This trial will push you to your limits. It will test your resolve, your strength, and your will to survive. Know that if you accept, you may die." The air grew heavy with the weight of the creature¡¯s words. "If you wish to take the trial, declare your intent aloud, and I will honor your choice. If you prefer to leave the Grove, you may do so and forget this place entirely. Whatever your decision, I will respect it." The Will¡¯s voice softened one last time, almost mournful as it faded away. "I will not appear again for a long time. The choice is yours." Colm stood motionless, staring at the spot where the creature had been moments before, his mind racing to process everything that had just unfolded. That was a lot. He glanced around the Grove with a newfound understanding, his gaze sweeping from tree to tree, from every blade of grass to the soil beneath his feet. It¡¯s all alive. And it can speak. The realization hit him like a wave. This place¡ªthe Grove¡ªhad ensured he had food and water, yet it had also shaped his path, presenting him with opportunities to grow stronger and prove his worth. Every challenge, every encounter, had been part of a larger test. The weight of it all sank in, and all Colm could manage was a quiet, disbelieving mutter. "What. The. Fuck." Chapter 26: The Decision Colm collapsed to the ground, clutching at a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding. Sweat streaked down his face as he tried to grapple with the absurdity of the situation. "This place is alive," he muttered, half to himself, "and it talked to me. It¡¯s probably listening right now." He let out a hollow, hysterical laugh. "Maybe I really have gone insane. Maybe it happened the moment I started talking to my phantoms." The laugh died on his lips as he leaned back, staring up at the Grove''s canopy. Minutes passed as the anxiety that had gripped him waned. Slowly, his breathing steadied, and he closed his eyes, forcing himself to focus. Everything just keeps getting crazier, he thought, his mind racing. A three-question-mark creature. A chance to leave¡ªor to face another trial. Minutes ago, his only thought had been of freedom, of leaving this strange place behind. But the appearance of that being¡ªthe Grove itself¡ªhad shaken him to his core. I came here to escape the undead, he reflected. Then I kept pushing myself for the thrill, for the chance at rewards. Now, I''ve earned my reward. I¡¯ve gained the strength to carve a path out of here if I want. But what if there are stronger things out there¡ªthings worse than anything I¡¯ve faced so far? The questions hung heavy in his mind, refusing to be ignored. I want to keep getting stronger. Colm¡¯s thoughts sharpened with clarity. I want to push myself to the heights this world offers. And I want to be free¡ªfree from deadlines, free from fear, free from the anxieties that plague me, and free of my self-doubt. He clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. I¡¯ll take on this trial and come out on top. The decision felt final, a line drawn in the sand. I can wait a few more days before leaving. Hell, I¡¯ve already been here for months¡ªwhat¡¯s a few more weeks in the grand scheme of things? With his determination set, Colm stood tall and announced aloud, "I¡¯ve decided. I will face your last trial." Silence followed. Colm stood there, waiting, the words hanging in the air. But nothing happened. Doubt crept in, gnawing at the edges of his mind. Was it all in my imagination? He wondered. Was the Will of the Grove even real, or is this just my stress and isolation playing tricks on me? His thoughts spiraled as the self-doubt grew heavier. Then, suddenly, the world around him flickered¡ªand went completely dark. The forest was gone. The soft twilight glow of the Grove¡¯s flora vanished as though it had never existed. And then, light. Colm squinted as bright illumination filled his vision, revealing a massive enclosed space. He stood at one end of a colossal cylindrical chamber, its smooth stone walls towering high above him. The structure reminded him of an ancient colosseum, though there were no seats, no spectators¡ªjust the vast, empty expanse. The stone was unnaturally smooth to perfection, and somehow radiated a light as bright as day, though no obvious source was visible. Colm turned slowly, taking in the eerie silence of the arena. His confusion deepened with each passing second. What is this place? He thought. What kind of trial is this? The stark contrast between the serene, mystical Grove and this imposing, empty arena left him unsettled. Yet, as his eyes adjusted to the brightness, his resolve resurfaced. Whatever this trial entailed, he would face it head-on. Moments later, Colm watched as clumps of mist materialized at the far side of the arena. At first, he couldn¡¯t make out any details, but as seconds passed, the mist slowly took shape. The process was deliberate, almost hypnotic¡ªa swirl of vapor coalescing into a sphere, which grew larger and denser, as though solidifying before his eyes. Colm stood frozen, watching the transformation in awe. It was eerily beautiful, an almost ethereal display. But the sense of wonder quickly gave way to focus as the reality of the trial settled in. This is part of it, he thought, steadying himself. Looking around, Colm¡¯s gaze fell on his phantoms, who had appeared in the room alongside him. Relief coursed through him; he wasn¡¯t facing this alone. He commanded the phantoms to move surrounding him. Lance stepped forward, spear in hand, ready to engage at a distance. Carver moved to his side, poised for close combat. Robin hung back, bow drawn, ready to provide support. With his allies in position, Colm turned his attention back to the far side of the arena. The clumps of mist had changed again, their shapes shifting and refining into more distinct forms. Colm¡¯s breath hitched as recognition flickered in his mind. I know those shapes, he realized, his heart quickening. Eyes narrowing, he cast Analyze on the figures and let out a quiet gasp as he read through the results. Stone Gnawer (Level ??) ?? (Level ??) Wraithvine Serpent (Level ??) Colm gritted his teeth. The bosses of the Grove are back¡ªand stronger. When he first faced them, the Stone Gnawer was level 44, the Grove Stalker 50, and the Wraithvine Serpent 40. Now, they loomed at the far end of the arena, more powerful than before. Despite the strength Colm had gained¡ªnow at level 45 with new phantoms and skills¡ªthese versions were still above his level. I should¡¯ve figured out the exact mechanics of Analyze by now, he cursed silently. It revealed creatures at least ten levels above his own, and rank-ups only occasionally provided additional information. He had no time to dwell on it. He needed a plan. This is going to be a team battle, Colm thought, his mind racing. I could focus all my fire on one to lower their numbers quickly, but that would leave me wide open to the other two. Or I could spread my phantoms out for a 1v1v1, providing support to whoever needs it most. He clenched his fists, remembering the last time he fought the Grove Stalker. It was a slaughter. Each strike obliterated my phantoms. But this time, I have Spectral Persistence to buy me precious seconds. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. The creatures stood still, as if waiting for Colm to make the first move. With no time to hesitate, he decided on a strategy. "Robin, open fire," he commanded. Robin lifted the spectral bow and as an arrow materialized and fired, then fired again and again. Arrows streaked through the air, embedding themselves in the Stone Gnawer¡¯s hide. The beast let out a curdling scream as blood spattered the stone floor. It¡¯s started. The Stone Gnawer, Grove Stalker, and Wraithvine Serpent responded in unison and charged. Colm shouted for Lance and Carver to intercept, while Robin continued to focus on the Stone Gnawer, firing relentlessly. Each arrow peppered the beast, drawing more blood, but the gap between them was closing fast. Colm veered to the side, positioning himself behind Robin. The other two creatures clashed with Lance and Carver, but Colm¡¯s focus stayed on the Stone Gnawer. Then, he saw it: the glint in the Stone Gnawer¡¯s eyes as their color shifted to a deep green. The earth spike, he realized, gritting his teeth. He knew it was coming but had no way of predicting where. His gut told him it would target Robin, the source of its pain. "Robin, move! Dodge!" Colm commanded. But the Stone Gnawer¡¯s cast completed before Robin could act. Pain shot through Colm¡¯s leg as the spike erupted from the ground beneath him, sending him crumpling to the floor. Me, he thought bitterly. I was the target. Damn it! I should¡¯ve focused on myself instead. As Colm struggled to regain his footing, the Stone Gnawer charged Robin, closing the distance. Robin, now ineffective at close range, could only dodge. Colm cursed himself for never considering the Phantom Archer¡¯s weaknesses in melee combat. A sudden tug on his Spectral Persistence passive pulled his attention back to the other fight. The Grove Stalker swiped through Lance with devastating force, and Colm commanded the phantom to focus relentlessly for its remaining three seconds and distract the Grove Stalker. "One phantom down, but better than the first attempt against the Stalker," Colm muttered, frustration mounting as his eyes flicked to Carver. The Phantom Warrior¡¯s slightly faded form betrayed the hits it had already taken as it struggled to hold its ground against the Wraithvine Serpent. The serpent moved with deceptive fluidity, feigning a lunge to bait Carver into a defensive stance. In an instant, it struck¡ªnot with its fangs, but with a powerful blow from the side with its tail, sending Carver sprawling onto his back. The Phantom barely had a moment to recover before the serpent followed up with a crushing bite, forcing Spectral Persistence to trigger once again. The skill bought Carver precious seconds, but Colm knew it wouldn¡¯t be long before his phantom faded entirely. I need to end one now. A plan formed in his mind. He would summon Lance and Carver directly behind the Stone Gnawer for a surprise attack, distracting it long enough for Robin to regain the upper hand. Bolting toward Robin¡¯s position, Colm executed his strategy. The Stone Gnawer¡¯s relentless melee assault had pushed Robin into pure survival mode, the phantom¡¯s effectiveness plummeting. But even in the chaos, Robin¡¯s presence was a vital distraction. As Colm closed in, he felt Lance vanish from Spectral Persistence, leaving Carver with only a second of time remaining. Without hesitation, Colm activated his Phantom Spearman ability, summoning Lance behind the Stone Gnawer. The spear-wielding phantom appeared in an instant, thrusting its weapon with all its might. The Stone Gnawer let out a horrific screech as the spear pierced its hide. The distraction gave Robin just enough time to fire another arrow, this one puncturing the creature¡¯s right eye and driving deep into its brain. With a final, guttural roar, the Stone Gnawer collapsed to the ground, its massive form hitting the stone floor with a resounding thud as a notification appeared in Colm''s vision. Panting, Colm muttered, "Huh, didn¡¯t need Carver to finish it," as he quickly activated his Phantom Warrior ability, summoning Carver once more. He turned to face the two remaining creatures charging toward him, now only seconds away. Lance stepped into position between Colm and the oncoming enemies, his spear at the ready. Colm split their focus. "Lance, Carver, you¡¯re on the Grove Stalker. Robin, you¡¯re with me on the serpent," he commanded, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. Lance and Carver charged at the Grove Stalker with precise coordination, their weapons raised. Colm trusted them to hold their own, knowing that Spectral Persistence would keep them in the fight long enough for him to recover if needed. As his phantoms clashed with the Stalker, Robin unleashed a rapid volley of arrows at the Wraithvine Serpent. Some arrows hit, while others missed as the serpent dodged with fluid agility. Yet Robin¡¯s precision shone through the Phantom Archer, adeptly predicting the serpent¡¯s movements. Colm grinned as he tightened his grip on his spear. Time to fight, he thought, surging forward with a determined smile. Robin¡¯s arrows provided support, covering any mistakes as Colm pressed in, keeping the serpent at bay with precise spear thrusts. His goal was simple: deliver enough wounds to wear it down. As he neared the serpent, it coiled tightly, then darted forward to strike at Colm¡¯s exposed side. Robin¡¯s arrow met it mid-lunge, piercing through its scales and eliciting a sharp hiss. Seizing the moment, Colm followed up with a sweeping strike, his spear slicing through the serpent¡¯s flesh, causing it to reel back and re-engage. Colm quickly noticed the serpent¡¯s tactic. It continually repositioned itself to block Robin¡¯s line of sight. Adapting, Colm began circling the creature, keeping it in motion with glancing blows, creating openings for Robin to fire. Whenever Colm couldn¡¯t maneuver out of the way fast enough, Robin would shift targets momentarily, landing critical shots on the Grove Stalker to support Lance and Carver. The Phantom Archer¡¯s versatility is unreal, Colm thought, impressed by Robin¡¯s ability to provide essential support to both groups. Colm¡¯s dance with the serpent continued, every movement calculated. He slashed and swiped with his spear, drawing blood with each strike, methodically wearing the creature down. The serpent was relentless, coiling and striking with blinding speed, forcing Colm to retreat repeatedly. He knew that even a single hit could prove disastrous¡ªits venom would weaken him, and with the Grove Stalker still in play, that could mean certain death. Each moment of retreat allowed Robin to line up shots, the Phantom Archer¡¯s arrows piercing deeper into the serpent¡¯s scaled body with precise, unyielding accuracy. The cycle repeated for what felt like an eternity¡ªdodge, strike, retreat, arrow¡ªuntil Robin finally landed a devastating shot, pinning the serpent halfway down its length. The creature hissed and writhed, momentarily immobilized. Colm seized the opportunity, gripping his spear tightly and delivering a powerful slice that severed the serpent in two. He didn¡¯t stop there. It¡¯s not done yet, Colm thought grimly, knowing the serpent¡¯s regenerative abilities. He launched a relentless onslaught, striking again and again before it could recover. Robin continued firing arrows, each one landing with precision as the two overwhelmed the serpent. A sudden tug from his Spectral Persistence alerted him. His other phantoms have fallen. Gritting his teeth, Colm refused to let it distract him, pouring his efforts into finishing the serpent. Another tug followed moments later¡ªanother phantom gone. Then, finally, the serpent fell still, its body reduced to mangled pieces. A notification blinked in Colm¡¯s vision, but he pushed it aside, too focused on the fight to celebrate. Colm quickly turned toward the Grove Stalker, but before he could react, a guttural roar thundered through the arena, its sheer power stunning him. His heart sank as he locked eyes with the furious creature, its massive form hurtling toward him with terrifying speed. Chapter 27: The Outcome Colm couldn¡¯t do anything but watch, momentarily stunned by the Grove Stalker¡¯s deafening roar. The creature closed the gap between them with terrifying speed. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Robin, similarly dazed by the sound, frozen in place. Bracing himself as precious seconds ticked by, Colm fought to regain control of his body. By the time he did, it was too late¡ªthe Grove Stalker was upon him. Reacting instinctively, Colm twisted his body as much as he could while activating the Phantom Warrior ability and focused above the Stalker¡¯s head. At the same moment, Robin loosed an arrow. Everything seemed to happen at once. The Grove Stalker unleashed a powerful strike, its claws slicing through Colm¡¯s twisted form with brutal precision. The blow connected with his shoulder, cutting deep and sending him flying. A guttural scream escaped him, raw and pained, as blood splattered in his wake. Colm¡¯s airborne form collided with the ground with a heavy thud. He groaned, the impact sending shockwaves of pain through his body. Glancing at his right shoulder, he saw it was a bloody, torn mess. He tried to move it, but it refused to respond. Through the haze of pain, Colm focused beneath the creature and activated Phantom Spearman, summoning Lance for a decisive strike. Meanwhile, Carver finished materializing above the Stalker, plunging its spectral blade into the beast¡¯s back. A roar of pain erupted from the Grove Stalker Carver¡¯s blade sliced through and Lance¡¯s spear pierced its stomach, the creature writhing in agony. Gritting his teeth against the pain, Colm forced himself to his feet, somehow keeping his grip on his spear. Using it as a crutch, he pushed upright, his breaths ragged and uneven. He knew he was in awful shape. Pulling up his status screen, he glanced at his health, dreading what he might see as the pain coursed through him like fire. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Health: 518 / 850 Mana: 488 / 575 Frowning at the sheer damage from a single attack, Colm refocused on the battle at hand. The Grove Stalker, heavily wounded, now moved slower and with more effort. Despite the pain coursing through him, Colm felt a flicker of pride¡ªhe¡¯d endured, and activated his abilities with precision. The attack didn¡¯t even take me below half health which is a testament to my improvement he thought seeing a silver lining. Now he watched as his phantoms moved in unison around the beast. Robin fired arrow after arrow, each one aimed with deadly intent, while Carver and Lance weaved through the Stalker¡¯s increasingly sluggish swipes. It had become a battle of endurance, and Colm knew his phantoms had the advantage¡ªthey didn¡¯t tire. As long as they kept playing it safe, victory was only a matter of time. But as if sensing the inevitable outcome, the Grove Stalker erupted in fury. Without warning, flames ignited across its body, a blazing inferno enveloping it. Shit, Colm thought, his stomach dropping. This is new. The beast now wielded fire with terrifying ease, each swipe of its claws trailing arcs of flame that disrupted the rhythm of the phantoms¡¯ attacks. The heat was oppressive, the licking flames peppering his phantoms with burning sparks. Robin¡¯s arrows fell short, the heat causing them to lose momentum from their target. Still relatively close to the beast, Colm seized the moment before it could fully reorient itself. Activating Phantom Warrior, he summoned Carver directly beneath the creature as it lunged. The Phantom materialized mid-strike, plunging its blade deep into the beast¡¯s underside. Lance darted in, swiping at the Stalker¡¯s face and leaving a gaping wound that spilled fresh blood onto the stone floor. The Grove Stalker staggered but remained standing, its form a horrifying mix of blood and flame. The Grove Stalker''s own ichor scorched and blackened the stone beneath it. Despite its injuries, the creature stood tall, unyielding, its fury undiminished. Its blazing eyes locked onto Colm, and for a moment, there was a terrifying clarity in its gaze. The beast seemed to understand that Colm was the threat¡ªthat the phantoms were merely extensions of his will. The creature advanced slowly, flames burning fiercely around its body, forming a fiery barrier that kept Colm¡¯s phantoms at bay. Each step was purposeful, its entire focus locked onto Colm. Gritting his teeth, Colm realized he was now the creature¡¯s sole target. The heat radiating from the flames was overwhelming, and he knew his phantoms couldn¡¯t survive prolonged proximity. With a snap decision, he ordered Lance and Carver to charge the beast, hoping their damage through Spectral Persistence would be enough to weaken it. Lance and Carver obeyed, rushing toward the blazing Grove Stalker. Almost immediately, Colm felt the familiar tug of his passive skill as the flames consumed them. Despite this, their faded forms continued to strike at the beast. Carver targeted its limbs with relentless precision, while Lance focused on the creature¡¯s flank, driving his spectral spear into vulnerable spots. Stolen story; please report. Seconds passed like hours as the Grove Stalker trudged forward, its fiery aura unwavering, each step slower than the last. Colm repeated the cycle again and again, summoning his phantoms to whittle it down as it relentlessly approached him. The room was thick with heat and tension, but the creature¡¯s movements continued. Finally, a critical shift occurred. Carver¡¯s blade sliced deep, severing through the hardened bone of one of the Stalker¡¯s legs. The beast stumbled, its balance wavering. As if the blow had triggered something, the inferno engulfing the Grove Stalker flickered, then extinguished entirely. The Stalker locked eyes with Colm one last time, a guttural snarl escaping its maw before it collapsed in a heap. Its glowing eyes dimmed, and it closed them for the last time. A notification blinked into Colm¡¯s vision, but he barely noticed it, still reeling from the sheer intensity of the fight. Collapsing to the ground, Colm felt the immediate pull of his Lingering Vitality as it began mending his injuries. Each pulse of warmth stitched his battered body back together, though the pain still throbbed in his shoulder. As he lay there, he processed everything that had just unfolded. This trial had been the culmination of every challenge he¡¯d faced in the Grove. He had overcome all the beasts combined, proving just how far he had come. His growth was undeniable, tangible in every strike and command. I¡¯m much stronger than before, he thought, his chest rising and falling with heavy breaths. His phantoms, his greatest strength, had followed his every order with precision. Together, they were unstoppable. Yet, even in victory, the sight of the fiery Grove Stalker lingered in his mind. What the hell was that? The flames, the transformation¡ªit wasn¡¯t just a defensive measure. It was as if the creature had enhanced itself, using the fire to push beyond its limits. The thought gnawed at him. Glancing at his shoulder, Colm winced at the sight of torn flesh and blood still oozing from the wound. But he felt the steady warmth of his passive healing ability, and he watched in amazement as the gash closed. The wound that would have been life-altering back home would now be healed in minutes. Grateful for the reprieve, Colm let out a long sigh. The battle had taken everything he had, but it was over and wasn''t as close as his earlier fights against the beasts. Finally, he turned his attention to the stream of notifications awaiting him, ready to reap the rewards of his hard-fought victory. Stone Gnawer (Level 70) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Wraithvine Serpent (Level 70) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Grove Stalker (Level 70) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Phantom Spearman (Level 9) is now Phantom Spearman (Level 10) Phantom Archer (Level 6) is now Phantom Archer (Level 7) Phantom Archer (Level 7) is now Phantom Archer (Level 8) Pain Resistance (Level 7) is now Pain Resistance (Level 8) Pain Resistance (Level 8) is now Pain Resistance (Level 9) Hardened Skin (Level 3) is now Hardened Skin (Level 4) Slash Resistance (Level 4) is now Slash Resistance (Level 5) Slash Resistance (Level 5) is now Slash Resistance (Level 6) Slash Resistance (Level 6) is now Slash Resistance (Level 7) Spectral Persistence (Level 2) is now Spectral Persistence (Level 3) Spectral Persistence (Level 3) is now Spectral Persistence (Level 4) Spectral Persistence (Level 4) is now Spectral Persistence (Level 5) Spectral Persistence (Level 5) is now Spectral Persistence (Level 6) Lingering Vitality (Level 8) is now Lingering Vitality (Level 9) Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. [ Achievement Earned ] Trust of the Grove - You have braved the perils of the Lucent Grove, enduring its many dangers. Repeatedly, you have faced formidable adversaries and risen above the struggles before you. The Grove recognizes your strength and resilience, placing its trust in you. [ Requirements Fulfilled: Synergized Achievement Unlocked ] Champion of the Lucent Grove - You have done more than simply conquer the trials of the Lucent Grove¡ªyou have earned its trust. The Grove acknowledges your worth and the Blessing of the Grove and Trust of the Grove have converged, deepening and amplifying your connection to the Lucent Grove. The Will of the Grove has shared its dreams and desires with you, though you hold no obligation to fulfill them, but you now possess the tools to assist when you are ready and willing. Stat Boost: Grants a 20% increase to all stats. New Ability - Portal to the Lucent Grove: Allows the caster to open a portal to the Lucent Grove from any location, for a limited time. The portal can bring others into the Lucent Grove to bring prosperity to its lands. You can cast this ability once per day, but it requires significant time to prepare. "Holy shit," Colm mumbled, staring at the flood of notifications. The sheer number of level-ups, stat increases, and the boost from the new achievement left him reeling. He couldn¡¯t help but wonder, Just how powerful is the Grove to grant me all this? Or is it the system itself giving me these bonuses? The questions swirled in his mind, leaving him more confused than ever. The Portal to the Lucent Grove ability caught his attention. Interesting, he thought. I guess that means I can always come back here. He sighed, reflecting on everything the Grove had done for him. I get it. The Grove put its trust in me, and I really owe it a lot. It saved me from what would¡¯ve been a gruesome death at the hands of those undead and gave me a battleground to grow stronger. His thoughts lingered on the portal. Maybe one day, I¡¯ll come back and see what I can do for it. For now, though, it might just save my life again¡ªeither to escape or a safe place to return to. Definitely not going to say no to that. He shook his head in disbelief, recalling the strength of the trial¡¯s creatures. Level 70. That¡¯s ridiculously high. Not as high as the Will of the Grove, but still insane. His brow furrowed as he considered the inconsistency of levels. I really need to figure out why levels sometimes feel... arbitrary. That¡¯s going to be crucial for my growth. Colm leaned back, letting his Lingering Vitality continue its work as he reviewed the notifications and processed the information. His body ached, but his mind churned with thoughts of what lay ahead. "I guess it¡¯s time to figure out what¡¯s next," he muttered, determination hardening in his chest. Chapter 28: Leaving the Grove As Colm sat there, allowing his Lingering Vitality to mend his shoulder, he mulled over his next move. The world around him flickered briefly into darkness before the familiar sight of the forest grove reappeared. In front of him stood the rift, the pathway out of the grove. He shook his head, still reeling from the fact that the Grove had a voice, a living presence. I guess the Grove honors its word. Sitting quietly, Colm reflected on his accomplishments. He had conquered the Lucent Grove, reaped incredible rewards, and grown much stronger. How strong he was in the grand scheme of things remained a mystery, but at least he knew one thing. I can destroy all those undead that chased me here. Glancing at his shoulder, he noted the wound had almost fully healed, though he hesitated to test it, fearing he might set the recovery back. He rested a while longer. His gaze wandered across the grove¡¯s lush greenery and its perpetual twilight glow. This was the place he had called home for a time¡ªa peaceful refuge, aside from the monsters that tried to kill him. The thought made him chuckle. After some time passed, Colm shook himself from his reverie, realizing his Lingering Vitality had completed its work. His shoulder looked as good as new, though the dried blood remained as a stark reminder of the recent battle. Looking down at himself, he groaned at the sight of his tattered, blood-streaked clothes. Man, I look like a mess. I found no decent clothes lying around here. Colm prepared himself and decided to prepare a bit before venturing back through the rift. Finding a nearby stream, he used his Phantom Archer to ensure the stream was free of threats before drinking from the crisp, cool water. He then washed his tattered clothes in the stream and laid them aside to dry. With his phantoms nearby for protection, Colm entered the water, scrubbing away the blood and grime that clung to his body. The cool water invigorated him as he worked to feel clean once again. Emerging from the stream, Colm stretched and glanced at his drying clothes. I wonder what the Grove thought of all the times my bare ass was on it, he mused, a wry smile tugging at his lips. Shaking off the thought, he searched for Celestial Blooms to nourish himself, gathering as many as he could carry to prepare for the journey ahead. Although his enhanced body allowed him to endure long periods without sustenance, Colm was determined not to face the same dire circumstances again. After feeling full and refreshed from his meal and drink, Colm decided it was the perfect time to rest. He didn¡¯t know when he¡¯d next get a proper sleep in the undead-infested forest above. Besides, with his clothes still drying, it made sense to wait. Spotting a nearby patch of grass, he settled down, ensuring his phantoms were on guard¡ªRobin and Lance patrolled the perimeter, while Carver remained by his side. Before drifting off, Colm checked his status, reflecting on how far he had come since entering the Echoed Lands. The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Human Level: 54 Health: 1090 / 1090 Mana: 630 / 630 Strength: 65 (78) Dexterity: 70 (84) Intelligence: 105 (126) Constitution: 91 (109) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Level 10) [Carver] - Phantom Spearman (Level 10) [Lance] - Phantom Archer (Level 8) [Robin] - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Level 9) - Spectral Persistence (Level 6) - Empty - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 4) - Stealth (Level 7) - Pain Resistance (Level 9) - Hardened Skin (Level 4) - Slash Resistance (Level 7) - Spear Mastery (Level 5) - Sprint Mastery (Level 10) - Poison Resistance (Level 6) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Champion of the Lucent Grove I have so much more health compared to when I first arrived, and my stats have improved dramatically, Colm thought, his eyes scanning the screen. That +5 attributes per level from my class has been a game changer, and the boost from the Lucent Grove achievement is no joke, either. He frowned slightly. I¡¯ve hit Level 10 on a few abilities, but they haven¡¯t progressed since. Maybe that¡¯s some kind of system threshold? "I really have gotten much stronger," he muttered to himself, chuckling softly. "It¡¯s incredible to think that just a few months ago, I was Level 1 with no idea about this world. I still don¡¯t fully understand it, but at least now I have a fighting chance¡ªand I¡¯m Level 54." Feeling content after reviewing his progress and marveling at how far he had come, Colm leaned back. The soothing presence of his spectral allies gave him a sense of peace as he closed his eyes and drifted into a restful sleep. Colm eventually awoke to find his Phantom Warrior gazing down at him. He chuckled softly, Don''t think I''ll ever get used to having something stare at me while I''m asleep. Rising, he walked over to where he had laid his clothes and found them dry. After dressing and stuffing his pockets with the Celestial Blooms he had gathered earlier, he took a last sip from the stream. With everything in place, Colm turned and began making his way back toward the rift. Within moments, the rift stood before him. Colm turned back toward the Grove, a wave of gratitude washing over him. "Thank you for everything," he said aloud, his voice sincere. "I may not be back for some time, but I won¡¯t forget what you¡¯ve done for me." With those parting words, he faced the rift once more and stepped through, ready to face whatever awaited him on the other side. Chapter 29: Exploring the Undead Forest As Colm stepped through the rift, the world shifted abruptly. The vibrant, living beauty of the Lucent Grove was now replaced by the oppressive gloom of the dark forest. The stench of death filled the air, and decaying trees loomed around him like twisted sentinels. I forgot how depressing this place was. Turning to look behind him, Colm saw the rift had vanished. I guess the only way back to the Lucent Grove is through the portal ability from the achievement. Good to know. Realizing his phantoms hadn¡¯t come through the rift with him, Colm frowned. There must be a restriction preventing abilities from crossing rifts, he reasoned. Quickly remedying the situation, he summoned all three of his spectral allies, immediately instructing Lance and Robin to patrol the surrounding area while Carver remained by his side. Fully expecting the undead to swarm him once they sensed something alive in their domain, Colm wanted to be prepared. With his phantoms guarding him, he considered his next move. Find others. The thought lingered in his mind, but he did not know which direction to take. Deciding to rely on instinct, he picked a random path and started walking at a steady pace, scanning his surroundings carefully. He didn¡¯t want to miss anything, so he avoided running. As he moved, Colm began using Analyze on everything he passed¡ªtrees, grass, bushes¡ªbut the skill returned only basic information, nothing useful. Almost immediately, a notification flared in his vision. Undead Walker (Level 2) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm smirked at the result, amused. He recalled the first time he¡¯d encountered an undead and how terrified he¡¯d been. Now, he didn¡¯t even flinch. It was so weak that my phantom destroyed it before I even realized it was there, he thought, relishing this newfound sense of power. As he enjoyed the moment, more notifications appeared in quick succession. Undead Walker (Level 7) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 11) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 4) Defeated. No Experience Gained. ¡­ Undead Walker (Level 5) Defeated. No Experience Gained. I guess they know I¡¯m here. He chuckled, unfazed by the onslaught. Trusting his phantoms to handle the undead, Colm continued forward, letting the notifications fade as he focused on finding something¡ªanything¡ªthat might help him in this forsaken place. Colm continued through the day, leaving a trail of decrepit corpses in his wake. Hundreds, perhaps thousands, of undead had fallen to his phantoms and, by extension, to him. None posed a challenge¡ªnone were even strong enough to threaten his spectral allies. Eventually, fatigue crept in, though not from physical exertion. His body remained energized thanks to the relentless efficiency of his phantoms handling everything, but the mental strain of maintaining his focus left him feeling slower. He decided it was time to find a place to rest. The thought of stopping here, in this cursed forest, struck him as absurd. How could I even consider sleeping in this place? He mused, chuckling softly, thinking of his first ever night in this world. Yet, he knew rest was necessary. He didn¡¯t know what lay ahead and wanted to face it fully alert and prepared. Colm began scouting for a defensible spot where his phantoms could hold off any threats while he slept. After surveying a few potential locations, none truly stood out, but eventually, he came across a large tree. Its thick trunk and towering height gave him an idea¡ªit could provide a vantage point and a secure place to rest. Circling the tree, Colm inspected it. Its branches stretched wide, sturdy enough to hold his weight. Nodding to himself, he reached up and began climbing. The rough bark scratched at his hands as he pulled himself higher, carefully testing each branch before moving further. Eventually, he found a small, stable spot where he could wedge himself securely. Once settled, Colm issued commands to his phantoms. He instructed Lance and Carver to guard the tree¡¯s base, ensuring nothing could approach unnoticed. Meanwhile, Colm positioned Robin higher in the tree to rain down arrows as if a threat arose. Leaning back against the tree, Colm allowed himself a brief chuckle at the absurdity of it all. I¡¯ve been walking for hours, maybe even an entire day, and I still feel perky. My phantoms have done all the heavy lifting, but the mental strain is catching up to me. He glanced around at the oppressive gloom of the forest. The darkness doesn¡¯t help either, he thought, noting how the thick canopy above blocked much of the light, leaving the area in a perpetual shadow throughout the day. The scattered rays that broke through only heightened the eerie sense of endless night. I¡¯ll wait here until the sun rises, Colm decided, and see if I can find anything useful once there¡¯s light. With that, he let his body relax, trusting his phantoms to keep watch as he waited for dawn. Satisfied with his preparations and plan, Colm took a deep breath, allowing the eerie quiet of the forest to settle around him as he prepared for some much-needed rest, while looking over his notifications through the day. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. Undead Walker (Level 2) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 4) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 11) Defeated. No Experience Gained. ¡­ Undead Walker (Level 4) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm felt a sense of satisfaction with the sheer number of undead defeated as the notifications flooded his vision. Though part of him wished for more to have fallen, he took solace in the hundreds of creatures he had already slain¡ªmonsters that had haunted his first night in this world. He felt no remorse, only a burning resolve to cleanse the undead wherever they lurked. As he reflected, Colm couldn¡¯t help but wonder why so many of the creatures were low-leveled. There were a few higher-leveled ones scattered among them, but the strongest he¡¯d encountered barely reached the upper teens. Observing the fresher appearance of the stronger undead, at least relative to the others, he theorized that the age of a corpse might influence its level. These thoughts circled in his mind as new notifications flared across his vision. Lance and Carver stood vigilantly at the base of the tree, dispatching anything that approached. Content with their protection, Colm closed his eyes, letting his phantoms continue their tireless work as he allowed himself to rest. It wasn¡¯t long before sunlight broke through the canopy, its golden rays gently brushing Colm¡¯s face as he sat high in the tree. The warmth stirred him from his rest, and he opened his eyes, taking in the sight with a profound sense of gratitude. It¡¯s been months since I¡¯ve seen genuine sunlight, he thought, awestruck. The fleeting glimpses of light in the undead-infested forest and the perpetual twilight of the Grove had never truly been enough. Colm spent several long minutes basking in the feeling, letting the sunlight warm his skin. I didn¡¯t realize how much I missed this. The brightness, the warmth¡ªit filled him with a joy he couldn¡¯t put into words. As the moments stretched on, Colm eventually refocused on the present. He took stock of his surroundings and remembered his goal. Seeing notifications hovering in his vision, he pulled them up to skim through. Undead Walker (Level 9) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 2) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Undead Walker (Level 1) Defeated. No Experience Gained. ¡­ Undead Walker (Level 3) Defeated. No Experience Gained. Colm blinked, both alarmed and impressed. How did I sleep through so many undead walkers coming for me? Shaking his head in disbelief. But more than anything, he was grateful for the tireless efforts of his phantoms. Glancing down at the base of the tree, he spotted Lance and Carver standing tall, their forms unwavering. Around them were mounds of undead corpses, a grim testament to the battles fought throughout the night. The sheer number of lifeless bodies piled high struck Colm, underscoring just how relentless the assault had been¡ªand how steadfast his spectral allies were in protecting him. Colm ate a handful of the Celestial Blooms he had brought with him, savoring their faint minty taste before climbing higher into the tree. After a few minutes of careful maneuvering, he reached the top, securing a spot where he could use his vantage point to survey the forest below. He scanned in all directions, his gaze sweeping over the grim expanse of the dark forest that stretched endlessly for miles. The sight was disheartening¡ªnothing but shadows and decay met his eyes. Still, he wasn¡¯t willing to give up. Colm continued searching, his determination unshaken. There has to be something that points to civilization, he thought, his eyes straining to pick out even the faintest sign of hope in the oppressive wilderness. Colm spent long, tense minutes scanning the endless dead and decaying foliage, his eyes combing every shadow and break in the canopy for a sign¡ªanything¡ªthat might hint at something beyond the bleak forest. Nothing. Just as he was about to give up hope, his gaze caught on a small clearing where the trees gave way to a patch of dirt. There, faintly, he saw it¡ªa glint, as though light had reflected off glass or metal among the trees. His heartbeat quickened. This is it. There¡¯s something there, he thought, his focus sharpening. Though the shimmer was faint and partially obscured by the decaying canopy, that brief glimmer was enough for Colm. It¡¯s hidden, but it¡¯s real, he told himself, determination settling in his chest. With a goal in mind, Colm shimmied down the tree toward his phantoms at the base, Robin descending from its perch to join him. He glanced at his spectral allies, a wave of gratitude, pride, and strength swelling within him. My class and abilities have brought me far. I¡¯m ready for this, he thought. Now closer to the ground, the stench of decay hit him full force, the mounds of undead corpses surrounding the tree an unbearable testament to the battles fought through the night. Grimacing, Colm decided it was time to move. Without hesitation, he set off toward the glimmering spot he¡¯d seen, his phantoms by his side, ready for whatever awaited them. Trying to maintain a brisk walk, Colm broke into a run, unable to suppress his growing anticipation. His phantoms continued dispatching the undead effortlessly as he moved, clearing the path ahead. I need to find civilization, he thought, his heart pounding with excitement at the possibility. Yet, his mind raced, trying to temper his expectations with logic. If what I saw is a city or settlement, would anyone even be there? It¡¯s surrounded by this undead forest. And what if it¡¯s not a city at all? It could just be a random piece of metal¡ªor worse, a shiny rock catching the light. He exhaled sharply, forcing himself to stay grounded. I need to keep my emotions in check and not get ahead of myself. Colm¡¯s pace was steady, his enhanced stats allowing him to cover ground at an incredible speed. Despite his speed, the distance was significant, and the destination he¡¯d spotted from the treetop took time to reach. Doubts crept into his mind. What if I overshoot it? Or go the wrong way entirely? He clenched his jaw, pushing those thoughts aside. No, I can¡¯t let myself stop. I need to see this through¡ªwhether it¡¯s people, ruins, or just a lead. It¡¯s better than wandering aimlessly. Determined, Colm kept running, his phantoms at his side, his focus locked on the chance of finding something¡ªanything¡ªthat could offer hope or answers in this vast, desolate forest. Hours passed, but Colm never wavered. No undead came close to him, their approach swiftly dealt with by his phantoms. He lost track of how long he had been running or how many undead had fallen. None of it mattered¡ªonly reaching his destination. The trickle of sunlight through the canopy faded, giving way to the cold glow of moonlight streaking through the trees. Shadows deepened, and the forest grew eerily quiet, save for the unsettling sound of undead groans echoing through the darkness. Then, in the distance, Colm caught sight of something¡ªa shape breaking the monotony of the dark woods. It looked like a wall or some kind of structure. Is this what I saw? His heart raced with anticipation, and he broke into a sprint, the thrill of discovery propelling him forward. In mere moments, he reached the structure, breathless with excitement and ready to uncover what lay ahead. Chapter 30: Finding Something As Colm finally approached the structure, he strained to take it in through the darkness, using the faint hints of moonlight to piece together its details. It was a wall, partially destroyed and crumbling, a relic of better days long gone. Moving along the wall¡¯s edge, he rounded the corner and froze as the sight beyond came into view¡ªa ruined town sprawled amidst the trees. The remnants of many stone structures, likely once thriving buildings, sprawled throughout the area, their decay clear in every crumbled wall and overgrown corner. Colm¡¯s heart sank. There were no obvious signs of life, only silence and abandonment. With a weary sigh, he sat down, allowing the desolate sight to wash over him. It¡¯s hard to make much of anything out, he muttered, his voice tinged with disappointment. But I can see enough to know what state this place is in. His hope, fragile as it was, shattered in an instant. He had tried not to get ahead of himself, reminding himself repeatedly to temper his expectations. But after the long and arduous journey, hope had crept in regardless, fragile yet persistent. Now, it slipped through his grasp like sand, leaving behind only frustration and emptiness. The rows of ruined houses made his chest ache, stirring memories of his life back on Earth. He remembered the neighborhoods he used to walk through¡ªtrimmed lawns, children playing in the yards, the smell of barbecues in the air. It felt like a lifetime ago, and the contrast between those lively streets and this decaying ghost town hit him hard. This place could have been like that once, he thought. Filled with life. Now it¡¯s just gone. He gazed at the remnants of the village, sadness weighing on him as he tried to process what lay before him. "It¡¯s destroyed, and it looks like there¡¯s no one left," Colm grumbled to himself. "I¡¯ll at least look around and see if I can find anything." With that, he turned toward the village and moved forward. He commanded Lance and Robin to scout the area and clear any undead threats while he began his search. Almost immediately, notifications began flooding his vision of the undead being slain. Colm sighed, muttering, "They¡¯re never ending. I can always count on undead to be around." He walked down what he imagined had once been a cobblestone street, now cracked and overgrown, and stopped in front of the remains of what appeared to have been a house. It was little more than a decrepit structure with four crumbling walls and what remained of a roof now collapsed inward; the rubble strewn across the floor. The house was a decent size¡ªroughly equivalent to a two-bedroom home back on Earth. Colm, ever cautious, sent Carver inside first to ensure there were no surprises. After a tense minute, the phantom returned, its spectral form unscathed. Taking this as a sign that it was safe, Colm stepped inside, keeping Carver close by his side. Colm slowly crept through the ruined building, searching every nook and cranny for clues¡ªanything that could shed light on this world or his location within it. But his search yielded nothing of value, only crumbled remnants of the structure. What struck him as strange, however, was how modern the ruins felt, almost comparable to something from Earth. As he explored, he identified what he thought might have been a bathroom and a kitchen. At one point, he spotted fragments of metal, though its exact nature was unclear. Despite these observations, there was nothing truly noteworthy to uncover. With a heavy sigh, Colm stepped out of the crumbling house and onto the overgrown street. He glanced down the road, where rows of ruined houses stretched endlessly into the distance. It¡¯s like a major street or a subdivision, he mused, the sheer number of structures making him groan inwardly. This is going to take forever to search. With a faint smirk, he made a sarcastic mental note towards his phantoms. We might be here a while, so let¡¯s make it interesting¡ªwhoever racks up the most undead kills wins. Despite the mounting frustration, Colm¡¯s determination remained unshaken. Gritting his teeth, he moved toward the next set of ruins, ready to continue his search through the abandoned, haunting remnants of this desolate town. As Colm moved through the next five ruins, the results were the same¡ªnothing. Each structure had decayed beyond recognition, offering no clues or items of value. "Just how old are these ruins?" he muttered to Carver, who stood silently by his side. With no better option, he pressed onward, his phantoms continuing to clear the surrounding area. Notifications steadily flooded his vision, but Colm paid them little mind, his focus fixed on searching for something¡ªanything¡ªof significance. By the time he reached his thirtieth house, faint rays of sunlight began piercing through the canopy, casting a soft glow over the village. Colm was about to pause for a breather when something unusual caught his eye¡ªa piece of ruins near another building across the street, on the side he hadn¡¯t yet explored. Approaching, he saw a weathered stone resembling a sign, symbols faintly etched into its surface. At first, the markings were indecipherable, but then he felt the familiar pull of the Universal Language perk from his Through the Rift achievement. The symbols shifted in his mind, resolving into clear, readable words. Brimwhistle Inn. This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it. Colm¡¯s eyes narrowed as he stared at the sign, curiosity stirring within him. An inn? Is that the name of this place? He thought, a glimmer of hope rising amidst the endless decay. This, at least, was something tangible, a connection to whatever life had once existed here.
Many days later, Colm meticulously searched through the ruins of Brimwhistle. During his exploration, Colm found several more stone carvings that included the same term, strengthening his belief that this place was once known as Brimwhistle. Unfortunately, his supply of Celestial Blooms ran out far faster than he had expected, and he found no clean water to drink. This surprised him, as he distinctly remembered finding fresh water on his first day in this forsaken forest. As dehydration set in, Colm grew increasingly desperate. I can¡¯t let this become another trial like the one I endured in the Grove. I might go insane and not be able to come back, he thought grimly. Reluctantly, he used the Portal to the Lucent Grove ability from his Champion of the Lucent Grove achievement as he was getting desperate for water. The process required about fifteen minutes of focused effort to summon the portal, which he discovered remained open for one hour or until he closed it himself. Once inside the Grove, Colm made an interesting discovery. The portal dropped him at the Grove¡¯s entrance point and had no visible rift present. This initially sent Colm into a panic¡ªhe feared being trapped in the Grove. But he soon realized that if he used the Portal to the Lucent Grove ability again, it transported him back to the exact spot he had initially departed from. Relief and excitement quickly followed as he understood the potential of this newfound control. It¡¯s like my own pocket dimension, he thought, a grin spreading across his face. I could build a home here with food, water, and all the necessities. With how things are now, I never have to worry about dehydration or starving again and I always have a safe space to sleep at night. The idea filled him with hope and renewed determination, a sense of stability in a world otherwise defined by chaos. Day after day, Colm settled into a relentless routine: searching ruins, commanding his phantoms to slay countless undead, and returning to the Lucent Grove to recover. This cycle became his new normal, driven by the hope that somewhere in this desolate town, he would find a clue¡ªsomething to justify his efforts. After inspecting the ruins along what he dubbed as the main street, Colm scouted the outskirts, curious about the city¡¯s size. As he continued circling the ruins, the sheer scale of the place left him awestruck. This isn¡¯t just a town¡ªthis was a major city, he thought, realizing it took over an hour to traverse from one end to the other, even with his enhanced speed. Determined to focus his efforts, Colm scanned the city for major points of interest and worked his way through them systematically. First, he headed to what he believed was the city¡¯s center, only to find a massive crater. Scorch marks lined the edges of the crater, and mounds of skeletons lay scattered as if this had been someone¡¯s last stand years ago. Yet, the center was eerily empty, as if everything there had been burned to ash or completely vaporized. "Whatever happened here," Colm muttered, his voice low, "the thing that caused this was strong. Stronger than where I¡¯m at now. I don¡¯t think I could make a crater like this¡ªor leave marks like these¡ªeven with my current strength." He stared into the void at the crater¡¯s heart, unease creeping into his thoughts. Just how powerful was the force that did this? And what became of it? Colm stood frozen, stunned by the sheer devastation and power that the crater represented. Frustration bubbled beneath the surface in the absence of any meaningful clues, but he refused to let it defeat him. Determined, he turned his attention to other potential landmarks. Yet, as he pressed on, disappointment followed. Every structure he approached was the same¡ªrubble and ruins, the shattered remnants of what once was, offering no answers to the questions burning in his mind. Finally, frustration boiled over. Colm kicked a rock, his voice echoing through the empty streets. "Why is there nothing?! There should be a book, notes¡ªsomething!" His shout faded into the silence of the ruined city, leaving him alone with his exasperation and the endless questions the ruins refused to answer. Despite his frustration, Colm refused to give up. After about ten more days of this relentless cycle, something unexpected happened. The stillness of the night pressed in around him, broken only by the occasional groan of a distant undead. The ruins seemed even more oppressive under the moonlight, their jagged shadows clawing at the ground. Then, cutting through the silence, came the faintest sound¡ªa whistle. It wasn¡¯t the low, haunting wail of the wind, nor the muffled moans of the undead. It was deliberate, melodic, as if structured. Intrigued, Colm immediately set off toward the sound, navigating the labyrinth of crumbling ruins. The whistle grew louder with every step, drawing him closer as he twisted and turned through the wreckage. Eventually, he found himself back near the city center, his pulse quickening as the sound seemed just within reach. And then, just as suddenly as it began, the whistle stopped. Colm froze, his ears straining against the crushing silence that followed. The ruins seemed to hold their breath, the groans of the undead conspicuously absent. Something had shifted, though Colm couldn¡¯t quite pinpoint what it was. A faint tang lingered in the air, sharp and unnatural, and a subtle vibration beneath his feet made the ruins feel alive unnervingly. His hand instinctively tightened around his spear as his eyes darted across the desolate surroundings. What the hell was that? He glanced around, searching for any clue, but the ruins remained as empty and lifeless as before. No movements, no signs¡ªjust the same crumbling walls and overgrown debris. Scratching his head in mounting frustration, he let out a heavy sigh. "I can¡¯t tell where it came from. There¡¯s nothing here. Maybe I¡¯ll just chalk it up to magic and keep searching." And then, just as suddenly as the whistle had disrupted the stillness, everything seemed to return to its grim normalcy. The eerie silence reclaimed the ruins, broken only by the distant, haunting groans of the undead. It was as if the sound had never existed, leaving Colm with more questions than answers. Chapter 31: Brimwhistle Ruins Colm lost track of time as the days blurred together. Moving from one crumbling ruin to the next had become an exhausting, repetitive cycle, each new house offering nothing but more broken stone and decayed remnants of a life long gone. The monotony wore on his spirit, each step through the desolate streets feeling heavier than the last. He had tried countless times to climb one of the taller trees on the outskirts of the ruins, hoping to get a better view of the landscape, but it was always the same. The cursed forest stretched endlessly in every direction, an unbroken expanse of gnarled trees and shadows. The ruined city was the only fixed point he had, the only piece of reference in a world that seemed determined to swallow him whole. He reminded himself how fortunate he was to have even stumbled across it, though the thought offered little solace now. Colm had long since lost count of how many undead he¡¯d killed. His phantoms had made quick work of the creatures, their ethereal forms cutting through the endless waves with cold efficiency. Notifications had become a constant blur in his vision, their messages of victory devoid of satisfaction. As he moved through another collapsed building, a dark thought took root in his mind. He froze mid-step, his gaze drifting over a pile of broken bones scattered in the rubble. Shit, he thought, his chest tightening. Are the undead I¡¯m killing the old inhabitants of this town? The idea settled over him like a heavy shroud. He imagined the town as it must have once been¡ªfull of life, its streets bustling with people, children playing, merchants calling out wares. Now, those same people might be the mindless, rotting creatures he and his phantoms were cutting down without a second thought. "Damn it," Colm muttered under his breath, gripping his weapon tightly. He glanced at Carver, who stood silently by his side, its spectral presence unwavering. "Does it even matter anymore?" he asked quietly, though he wasn¡¯t sure if he expected an answer. The weight of the thought lingered as he pressed on, but Colm forced himself to focus. What¡¯s done is done. If these undead are the town¡¯s former inhabitants, then ending them is a mercy. Still, the idea gnawed at the edges of his resolve, making each encounter feel a little heavier, a little more personal. As the ruins stretched on, Colm felt the enormity of the town¡¯s size. He had only scratched the surface, and even after days of searching, he couldn¡¯t tell how much remained. "How big was this place?" he muttered, shaking his head. A city this large must have been important once¡ªso why is there nothing left to explain what happened here? Cutting through the oppressive silence came the accursed whistling once again. It was the same as before¡ªcountless times now; it had echoed through the ruins, taunting him. Each time, Colm had chased after the sound, only for it to lead him nowhere. This time was no different. He sprinted toward the source, frustration fueling his steps. His boot caught on a crumbling piece of stone, sending him tumbling to the ground. The impact jolted through him, but he barely cared. He was tired of being careful, tired of playing it safe. Once again, the whistle led him back to the center of the city, its sound fading just as he arrived. Days of searching this area had yielded nothing¡ªonly the same cruel pattern repeating over and over. "Damn it!" he shouted, slamming his fist against the ground. "Every time. It¡¯s like something is watching me¡ª" He froze mid-sentence, the weight of his words settling heavily in his chest. Something is watching me. The realization sent a shiver down his spine. His eyes darted across the ruins, suddenly hyper-aware of every shadow and flicker of moonlight. The whistle¡ªit wasn¡¯t random. It wasn¡¯t meaningless. It was deliberate. Calculated. Every time, it brings me back here. And every time it stops just after I arrive, Colm thought, his pulse quickening. He replayed the pattern in his mind; the frustration bubbling anew. But something¡¯s changed. He realized the whistle had become more erratic, its intervals shorter, its sound more frequent. And on the occasions when it had taken him longer to reach the city center, the whistle seemed to stretch on, almost as if¡­ His breath caught. As if whatever it is, it''s waiting for me. "Is there someone or something else here?" he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. The silence that followed felt suffocating, and for the first time, the whistle¡¯s haunting melody seemed less of a nuisance and more of a warning. Colm wrestled with the decision to stay in the haunted ruins or leave them behind. Fear crept in, a different fear than what he had faced in the Grove. There, at least, he understood his enemy. The challenges had structure, twisted as they were. But here¡ªhere there was no form, no logic. Just the unsettling sense that something unseen was mocking him, playing with him. The cursed forest loomed ominously around him, its eerie silence broken only by the groans of the undead. And now, the realization of the haunting whistle added an additional layer to the dread. What does the whistle have to do with this town? He wondered, his mind racing. What does it have to do with the undead? Are they connected? Is all of this part of some larger game I don¡¯t understand? Pushing through the storm of thoughts, Colm forced himself to breathe. He clenched his fists, resolving to see this through. No matter what it is, I¡¯ll find the source. He trusted in his abilities and his phantoms, their presence a comforting reminder of his strength. This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Still, a dark thought lingered at the edge of his mind. Worst-case scenario he shuddered, the idea chilling him to the bone. I die here and become undead. Shaking his head, Colm banished the thought and tightened his grip on his weapon. He wouldn¡¯t let fear dictate his actions. If the whistle held the town''s secrets, he would uncover them, regardless of what lay ahead.
Colm had suspended his search of the ruins, shifting his focus entirely to the source of the whistle. This time, he devised a new plan: camping out near the city center. It always stops when I arrive, he reasoned. But what if I¡¯m already there when it starts again? He spent hours combing through the immediate vicinity of the central crater, searching for any hidden clue¡ªa cellar door, a collapsed tunnel, anything that might explain the sound. Yet no matter how meticulously he explored, there was nothing. The area was as barren as it had always seemed, offering no answers. The hours dragged on, and frustration mounted. Colm¡¯s body ached from the endless walking, his mind from the ceaseless questions. Finally, as the sky began to darken, he considered calling it a day. The thought of portaling back to the Lucent Grove for a safe rest crossed his mind. But then he hesitated. If the whistle comes back while I¡¯m gone, I might miss it, he thought grimly. Resolving to stay, Colm found a spot near the crater to settle in for the night. Carver stood vigilantly by his side, while Robin and Lance continued their relentless purge of the undead that dared to wander too close. The faint sound of their distant battles was oddly comforting, a reminder of the strength that surrounded him. Before closing his eyes, Colm opened his notifications to a convenient summary from the system and messages he had been dismissing for days. 18,011 Undead Walkers Defeated. No Experience Gained. He scrolled through the endless logs of undead slain, his brow furrowing at the staggering volume. Days¡ªweeks¡ªof relentless slaughter by his phantoms had filled the list to overflowing. "Just how are there so many undead here?" he muttered, his voice laced with unease. The question lingered, heavier than he expected. Is this entire world overrun by the undead? The thought made his chest tighten, a flicker of hope dimming at the idea of an existence defined by lifeless ruins and unending battles against the cursed. What if there¡¯s nothing left? No life, no people¡ªjust this. Colm shook his head, trying to banish the grim thought, but it clung to him, a shadow of doubt he couldn¡¯t ignore. Equally disappointing was the lack of progress in his abilities or skills. Despite the sheer number of undead slain, he hadn¡¯t leveled up a single thing. It was as if the System only acknowledged efforts that posed a real challenge, rewarding growth only when he truly struggled. "Hell," he muttered under his breath, frustration seeping into his voice, "I don¡¯t care if I never level up from killing these things. As long as they¡¯re gone." The words felt hollow, but he meant them. The sight of his phantoms cutting through the endless hordes brought a grim satisfaction. Progress or not, every undead destroyed was one less abomination in this cursed world. Colm¡¯s mind raced, thoughts tumbling over one another as he struggled to find clarity. Slowly, exhaustion took hold, and he drifted off to sleep. The constant groans of the undead, once unsettling, had become a grim sort of white noise, fading into the background as the hours slipped by. As the night crept on, the piercing sound of the whistle jolted Colm awake. His heart raced, but he forced himself to stay perfectly still, fearing that any sudden movement might scare off¡ªor provoke¡ªwhatever was making the sound. His eyes darted around the area, scanning the darkness as he strained to pinpoint the source. He focused intently on the sound, its eerie melody cutting through the stillness, seeming to echo from every direction at once. After minutes of intently listening to the haunting whistle, Colm honed in on the crater. The sound seemed to resonate from its depths, and if it was hidden, it had to be there. Determined to test his theory, he sent Carver into the crater. The phantom moved silently, its spectral form gliding effortlessly over the rubble. The whistle didn¡¯t waver¡ªit continued, steady. It can¡¯t detect Carver, Colm realized, his thoughts racing. It must be sensing me somehow. With his resolve firm, Colm saw for himself. He¡¯d been in the crater countless times before, sifting through rubble and debris to no avail, but now he was certain something was buried beneath its surface. As soon as Colm stood, the whistle stopped abruptly, cutting off so sharply it made the hair on the back of his neck stand on end. It knows I played it, he thought, unease curling in his stomach. Seconds passed, the silence stretching unnaturally as Colm waited, tense and alert. I¡¯ve never heard it stop suddenly before. It didn¡¯t like that I stayed here. His mind churned with possibilities. That gives me some information¡ªit can sense my movements somehow. Maybe it can¡¯t see me, but it can hear or feel vibrations. He glanced at Carver, watching how the phantom moved effortlessly, its gliding steps barely disturbing the ground. That¡¯s why it didn¡¯t react to Carver. It didn¡¯t hear him. Then, without warning, the whistle started again. This time, it was different¡ªlouder, shrill, and grating. The sound was no longer haunting; it was horrifying. A screeching wail tore through the air, echoing across the ruins with a force that seemed to shake the ground itself. Colm clutched his ears, the noise like a physical assault, sharp and piercing. It reverberated through the ruined town, each wave of sound more unbearable than the last. He staggered, gritting his teeth as the whistle¡¯s terrifying shriek clawed at his senses. It¡¯s not just a sound¡ªit¡¯s an attack, he realized, his resolve hardening despite the agony. And it knows I¡¯m here. As abruptly as it began, the shrill sound ceased. Colm let his hands drop to his sides, his chest heaving as he tried to steady his breathing. What was that? But before he could fully process, the silence shattered again¡ªthis time by an ungodly screech echoing from deep within the city. Then another. And another. The sound multiplied, countless voices screeching in unison, a cacophony of horror rising all around him. Colm¡¯s eyes widened as the realization hit him like a blow. His breath caught, and a chill ran down his spine. It¡¯s calling them. It¡¯s calling all the undead in the city to me. Chapter 32: Facing the Horde The relentless thump of thousands of footsteps echoed through the ruins, accompanied by the guttural groans of the undead. The sounds rang in Colm¡¯s ears, overwhelming and unceasing. There was nowhere to run, nowhere to hide. Every direction he looked, a tide of undead bodies surged toward him, as if a flood converging on his location. The undead horde was an assortment of horrors. Some were barely more than skeletons, looking as if their brittle bones snapped under their own weight and the stress of the horde. Others were bloated with rot, their flesh falling off in wet chunks with every step. One, missing its legs, using its teeth and arms to drag itself closer, and its jaw snapping with hunger. Its already too late. The thought of portaling to the Lucent Grove crossed his mind, but he dismissed it immediately. It takes too much focus. Too much time. One slip, and I¡¯d have to start over. There¡¯s no chance. Gripping his spear tightly, Colm smirked grimly. "Guess we¡¯re fighting, then." Before the undead could completely encircle him, he sent Lance and Robin into the fray, their spectral forms moving with deadly precision. Their attacks cut through the horde making a path, but it was barely a dent¡ªlike a single drop in an endless ocean. Each movement forward sealed off their escape route. "There are so many of them," he muttered, his voice tinged with both awe and despair. Notifications flooded his vision, one after another, but Colm shoved them aside. There was no time to celebrate victories, no time to dwell on numbers. With a steady breath, he joined the battle, his spear slicing cleanly through the mass of rotting flesh and bone. Carver stood at his side, a steadfast guardian, ensuring nothing got too close. Together, they fought the approaching horde, each swing and strike a desperate attempt to survive. The battle had begun in earnest, and Colm steeled himself for the unrelenting storm of the undead. Minutes stretched into what felt like hours as Colm danced between the grasping hands of the undead. Despite their low levels and sluggish movements, their sheer numbers were unrelenting. For every one that fell, three more surged forward to take its place. The growing piles of corpses that littered the broken ruins grimly showed the battle''s intensity. Through panted breaths, Colm muttered, "An AOE ability would¡¯ve been really helpful right about now." He spared a glance at his phantoms, each one a beacon of hope amidst the droves of undead. Robin kept close to Lance, the archer¡¯s deadly precision enhanced by the spearman¡¯s formidable reach. Lance¡¯s spear swiftly skewered any undead foolish enough to draw near, while Robin loosed arrow after arrow, each one finding its mark with incredible accuracy. Colm forced his attention back to his own fight, his eyes flicking briefly to Carver. The Phantom Warrior cut through the horde like a scythe through wheat, its blade slicing through multiple foes with every swing. Yet even Carver¡¯s might could only create temporary gaps in the endless tide, each opening quickly filled by more ravenous bodies. "The only good thing about this," Colm muttered under his breath, "is that they¡¯re so weak a single strike takes them down, and my spear keeps me out of their reach." Colm¡¯s mind raced as he fought, a mixture of adrenaline and grim determination keeping him going. They just keep coming. There¡¯s no end to them. How many of these things can there possibly be? Despite the hopelessness clawing at the edges of his mind, he forced himself to focus. I¡¯ve survived the Lucent Grove. I can handle this. After this maybe, I can finally figure out the whistling. Thinking back to his days in the Lucent Grove, Colm felt a flicker of gratitude for the countless hours he had spent training with his phantoms, sharpening his combat skills and reflexes. That experience is paying off now. He could feel it in the fluidity of his movements, the instinctive way he adapted to the surrounding chaos. Even the knowledge granted by his Spear Mastery skill flowed through him, subtly guiding each strike with precision. But there was no time to dwell on those thoughts. Colm shoved them aside, his focus snapping back to the present. His spear thrust forward, impaling an undead that lunged at him from the side. The creature crumpled lifelessly to the ground as Colm quickly repositioned himself. The fight was far from over, and he braced himself for the relentless wave still bearing down on him. His expression hardened, his focus narrowing. The groans of the undead, the thud of countless footsteps, the distant clash of his phantoms¡¯ battles¡ªall of it faded into the background. His world became singular: the fight was directly in front of him. Swing. Swipe. Dodge. Repeat. Over and over. This was his life now, a ceaseless rhythm of survival. His spear, tipped with the Grove Stalker¡¯s claw, cleaved through the undead with brutal efficiency, its reach ensuring no creature came too close. Colm had no more time to monitor the other battles involving his phantoms¡ªhe trusted them implicitly. What mattered was the immediate threat, the foes surging toward him with unending ferocity. The one small solace was the absence of any notifications signaling the defeat of his phantoms. As long as that held true, he had hope. His grip tightened on the spear, and with a sharp breath, he pushed forward into the horde, determined to endure.
Panting heavily, Colm stood atop a mound of corpses, surveying the carnage spread out before him. Bodies upon bodies stretched endlessly into the distance, a grim testament to the brutal battle he had just endured. Countless times throughout the swarm, the growing piles of the fallen forced him to reposition, to avoid being tripped. Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. Taking in the grim sight around him, Colm stood amidst mounds of flesh and bone, their forms in various states of decay. Some were little more than shattered skeletons, while others still bore clumps of rotting flesh clinging stubbornly to their frames. The sheer carnage was overwhelming, but it was the stench that truly broke through his reverie. It hit him like a blow, sharp and nauseating, causing his eyes to sting and his stomach to churn. The bile rose in his throat, threatening to overwhelm him as he stumbled back, desperate to escape the grotesque scene. He turned away, forcing himself to focus on anything else, anything to push the horrifying image from his mind. His gaze shifted to his phantoms. They were still finishing stragglers, their spectral forms moving with precision as they dealt with the remnants of the horde. The fight wasn¡¯t entirely over¡ªhundreds of undead were still making their way toward him¡ªbut the tide had shifted. It was no longer the endless onslaught it had been before. The gaps left by the fallen weren¡¯t being filled as quickly now, and for the first time, the horde felt manageable. Sweating and exhausted, Colm swiped his brow and let out a weary sigh. "Shit. I got lucky," he muttered, his voice barely audible over the groans of the remaining undead. "They were all lower-level, easy to avoid. If I hadn¡¯t gotten so strong in the Grove¡­" He trailed off, shaking his head. I¡¯d be dead right now. His mind replayed fragments of the fight, focusing on the close calls. There had been moments when slightly stronger versions of the undead had caught him off guard with their sudden, unexpected movements. He¡¯d avoided them, but only barely. The memory sent a chill down his spine. If even one of them had gotten a hold of me. The thought hung heavy in his mind. He shuddered, the old zombie movies he¡¯d watched growing up flashing through his memory. A scratch, a bite¡ªthat could¡¯ve been the end of me. He clenched his spear tightly, his knuckles white. There¡¯s still too much I don¡¯t know about this place, about the undead, he thought grimly. His eyes darted toward the horizon, where more stragglers emerged from the forest. But I know one thing¡ªI¡¯m not dying here. With a moment of reprieve, Colm decided it was finally time to check his notifications. The battle had been long and grueling, but he could feel the growth coursing through him¡ªa tangible reward for his relentless effort and endurance. His hands trembled as the adrenaline faded, exhaustion settling in. With a swipe through the air, he began scrolling through the flood of notifications, his tired eyes scanning until he finally reached the summary at the end. Spear Mastery (Level 5) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 6) Spear Mastery (Level 6) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 7) Spear Mastery (Level 7) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 8) Spear Mastery (Level 8) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 9) Spear Mastery (Level 9) has increased to Spear Mastery (Level 10) 26,723 Undead Walkers Defeated. No Experience Gained. [ Achievement Earned ] Bane of the Undead - You have vanquished thousands of undead, avenging the fallen humans of this cursed land. Your relentless efforts have honed your power against these abominations, making your attacks and abilities significantly more effective. Stat Boost: Increases damage dealt to undead by 10%. Spear Mastery is now Level 10. That makes sense. I could feel how the skill influenced me during the fight, how it subtly guided my blows, refining each strike. Colm frowned thoughtfully. I¡¯ll need to figure out more about these skills¡ªsee if they can continue to rank up beyond this point. His thoughts wandered to other abilities, particularly Sprint Mastery, which hadn¡¯t budged in rank despite being at Level 10 for some time. Same with so many of my other abilities. What triggers a skill to rank up? he wondered. It feels like it¡¯s more than just levels or gained experience. This fight alone proved that¡ªI didn¡¯t earn any experience, but Spear Mastery still improved. Pushing the thought aside for now, Colm shifted his focus to the next notification, curiosity driving him forward. The Bane of the Undead has a nice ring to it, he thought wryly. Though in this fight, it would not have made much difference¡ªeverything had already fallen in a single hit. Still, the bonus isn¡¯t something to dismiss lightly. It¡¯ll probably come in handy down the road, he mused, his grip on the spear firm as he considered what else might await him in this cursed world. As Colm stared at how he got the achievement focusing on the numbers displayed before him, his eyes locked on the achievement and the staggering scale of his actions. ¡°Holy shit,¡± he muttered, barely audible. The realization hit him like a wave. It has to be over 40,000 by now. Maybe even 50,000. He sat down heavily, reeling from the weight of it. "That¡¯s¡­ so much death," he whispered, the enormity of it sinking in. Colm¡¯s mind raced as he tried to comprehend the scale. He pictured the largest stadiums he¡¯d visited back on Earth, their stands packed with people, trying to match that image to the staggering number of undead he had slain. The thought turned his stomach. Months ago, he had never even taken a life¡ªnot even an animal. Now, he¡¯d killed tens of thousands of creatures. This is too much, he thought, his breathing shallow. What kind of person does this make me? The moments dragged on as Colm sat in silence, his phantoms continuing their work. Spectral forms darted across the battlefield, slaying the last remnants of the horde. And then, suddenly, everything grew still. The footfalls of the undead ceased, their heavy groans fading into silence. The oppressive noise that had plagued the ruined city for so long was gone. Colm¡¯s head snapped up, his senses on high alert. ¡°Are they all gone?¡± he muttered, disbelief heavy in his voice. The silence that followed felt unnatural, almost surreal, as though the city itself had listened. For the first time in what felt like forever, there was no groaning, no shuffling, only the distant rustle of the wind. But this wasn¡¯t relief¡ªit was different. The abrupt end of noise felt wrong, the mounds of corpses around him serving as grim evidence of why the quiet had come. He understood the silence, knew the undead had finally stopped, but something about it unsettled him. It wasn¡¯t peace. It was foreboding. As Colm absorbed the eerie stillness, a sound sliced through the quiet, sharp and distinct, like a pin dropping in an empty classroom. A whistle. Chapter 33: The Whistle The tune of the whistle was mocking, its melody sharp and taunting, as though it reveled in toying with him, daring him to continue their twisted game. In that moment, Colm¡¯s exhaustion and pent-up rage boiled over. With a guttural yell, he unleashed his frustration, his voice slicing through the ruins like a blade. The whistle faltered, silenced mid-tune as his shout echoed into the night. Without hesitation, Colm ordered his phantoms to the crater, marching after them with determined steps. The sight that greeted him brought him up short. Mounds of undead bodies had accumulated in the crater¡ªless than in other areas, but enough to give him pause. The air was again thick with the stench of death, and the unsettling stillness only heightened the tension clawing at his senses. Pushing past the unease, Colm set to work again, scouring the crater for anything¡ªany clue, any sign of what was behind this madness. Then his gaze caught something unusual. Amidst the piled corpses, dark streaks shimmered faintly in the moonlight. Blood. Colm watched in stunned silence as the blood from the bodies dripped down and flowed unnaturally across the crater. It moved with purpose, tracing lines etched into the ground, forming a pattern that had gone unnoticed until now. The lines were too precise to be random, the symbol deliberate and ominous. His breath caught as the realization hit him. It played me. The thought burned in his mind as he watched the grim spectacle unfold. It drew me here, knowing the blood from the horde would trigger something. As the blood finished filling the symbol, a brilliant flash of light erupted from the crater¡¯s center. The air vibrated with the sound of a mechanism clicking into motion, the grinding of stone echoing beneath his feet. "What the hell was that? How did that even work?!" Colm fumed, his mind racing as he tried to process what he had just witnessed. "There were no lines, no symbols in the crater before¡ªso how did the blood form those shapes? How did the creature know this would happen?" He stared at the scene before him, frustration and disbelief roiling within him, letting the silence take over once more. And then, cutting through the heavy silence, the whistle returned. This time, it was accompanied by something far worse¡ªa chilling, cackling laughter that sent shivers racing down Colm¡¯s spine. Colm watched as the seconds stretched on. The glowing symbol etched into the crater¡¯s surface faded, and the mechanical clunks and grinding beneath the ground came to a halt. Then, at the center of the crater, an opening appeared¡ªa gaping, dark hole that seemed to descend deep into the ground. But there was more. Squinting to pierce the darkness, Colm noticed something within the newly revealed hole¡ªstone steps intricately carved into the walls, spiraling downward into the depths. His heart raced as realization struck. There''s a room under the crater and there was something in that room all this time. Something sealed away for who knows how long. Something that lured me here and now it¡¯s free. As the thoughts surged through his mind, the crackling laughter that had mocked him earlier returned, growing sharper and more insidious before melting back into that haunting, taunting whistle. The tune grew louder, each note echoing through the silent ruins like a creeping omen. Then it stopped¡ªabruptly. The slow, deliberate thunk shattered the silence that followed, a thunk of slow footsteps echoing up from the dark pit. Colm¡¯s breath hitched, his palms clammy against the shaft of his spear. This is like something out of a horror movie. My heart is racing but I''m also kind of interested, he thought, the absurd humor flickering like a faint spark amidst his mounting dread. Colm remained tense, watching the dark opening in the crater as the moments dragged on. He quickly commanded his phantoms to form a perimeter around the hole in the crater: Lance on one side, Carver on the opposite, and Robin stationed farther back, spectral bow drawn and ready while Colm tensed every muscle in his body, waiting for the inevitable. The steady thunk, thunk of footfalls echoed louder and louder from the pit, each step amplifying the oppressive tension in the air. Then, suddenly, the footsteps stopped. Out of the silence came a sharp, piercing whistle¡ªunlike any of the previous ones. This wasn¡¯t a taunt. This was an attack. The sound was so sharp it felt like needles stabbing into Colm¡¯s skull, making his vision blur and his focus falter. Before he could even process what was happening, two notifications flared in his vision. Your Phantom Spearman has been destroyed. Your Phantom Warrior has been destroyed. ¡°Shit,¡± Colm hissed, his heart pounding in his chest. He hadn¡¯t even seen what had happened, let alone how the creature had taken out his phantoms so swiftly. The realization that Spectral Persistence had already run its course before he could react sent a chill down his spine. Acting on pure instinct, he quickly activated Phantom Warrior and Phantom Spearman in rapid succession, summoning Carver and Lance back into play. Before Colm could fully regain his composure, a sudden flash of movement caught his eye. A creature burst from the darkness with terrifying speed, landing directly atop Robin. Robin immediately fell into its faded form from the attack, now powered by Spectral Persistence, releasing a flurry of arrows at the attacker. But the creature moved effortlessly, weaving between the projectiles with unnerving agility. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. Within seconds, another notification flared across Colm¡¯s vision. Your Phantom Archer has been destroyed. Grunting in frustration, Colm immediately activated Phantom Archer again, the spectral figure materializing beside him alongside the other two phantoms. His breaths came heavy as his eyes darted toward the once charging creature. It stood at a distance now, still and menacing, but its earlier movement had been too fast to track. Forcing himself to focus, Colm activated Analyze, his eyes narrowing upon reading the window in front of him. Pitchcaller (Level ??) Straightening up, he steeled himself, his phantoms silently poised at his side. His eyes locked onto the creature before him, and a shiver ran down his spine. It was truly terrifying. The creature stood nearly as tall as Colm, close to six feet, its frame draped in tattered, swaying garments that clung like shadows to its form. Thin layers of withered skin stretched over its bones, leaving much of its skeletal structure¡ªespecially its ribs¡ªexposed. Long, silver hair cascaded down to its shoulders, unkempt and lifeless, and its fingers ended in elongated, razor-sharp tips that shimmered under the dim light. What unnerved Colm most were its hollow eye sockets. Though empty, they seemed to track his every movement, locking onto him with an unnatural intensity, as if peering straight into his soul. The Pitchcaller stood motionless, its presence a silent challenge. It seemed to dare Colm to make the first move, its head tilted slightly as if studying him. The air between them felt thick, charged with an unspoken tension. Colm held his ground, his phantoms frozen in place, their spectral forms poised but unmoving. No one dared to move¡ªnot even Colm. His breaths were shallow, the surrounding stillness oppressive, as if time itself had paused. An undead creature with intelligence, Colm thought, his mind racing to grasp the absurdity of the situation. It¡¯s been toying with me for days, mocking me with that damned whistle. And now it¡¯s using some kind of magic sonic attack? His thoughts spiraled further. How does any of this connect? The ruins, the taunting, and even the name Brimwhistle¡ªwhat does it all mean? Just as his thoughts overwhelmed him, Colm noticed a subtle shift in the creature¡¯s stance. Something had changed. The Pitchcaller¡¯s mouth curled into a grotesque smirk, the flesh clinging weakly to its face stretching into an expression of cruel amusement. It stepped forward slowly, its bony fingers twitching, the sound of its steps like whispers on the wind. A haunting, nonchalant whistle emerged from its throat, piercing the silence and filling the air with a taunting melody. The tune twisted and echoed around them, each note wrapping Colm in a suffocating blanket of unease. It knows, Colm thought, gripping his spear tighter. It knows exactly what it¡¯s doing.
As the creature advanced, Robin loosed an arrow with precision, but the sound of a sharp whistle split the air. The arrow veered off course unnaturally, curving away from the creature as though repelled by an unseen force. Meanwhile, Lance and Carver charged headlong into the fray, Robin providing covering fire from the rear. The Pitchcaller met their charge without hesitation. It twisted past Carver¡¯s swing with an uncanny grace, another sharp whistle causing Lance to stagger mid-step and fall short of its strike. Robin then fired a second arrow, but the creature weaved through it effortlessly, its movements fluid, as if it had predicted the attack long before it came. Carver and Lance pressed the attack, relentless in their strikes, attempting to overwhelm the creature through sheer ferocity. Yet the creature thwarted every blow. With each swing or thrust the creature couldn''t dodge, it let out its eerie whistle, redirecting their attacks or forcing them off balance. Colm watched the scene unfold, unease tightening in his chest. It¡¯s not just dodging¡ªit¡¯s controlling the fight, he realized. The creature moved with precision, as if toying with its adversaries, and continued its relentless advance toward him, entirely undeterred. Its movements are incredible, Colm thought as he watched the Pitchcaller effortlessly evade his phantoms'' strikes. Its hollow sockets turned and locked onto him with unnerving precision. Shit¡ªit¡¯s not even fazed by them. It knows I¡¯m the target. As if to confirm his fears, the Pitchcaller suddenly broke into a sprint the moment it was out of their reach, heading straight for Colm. The phantoms struggled to keep up, their swings and lunges landing too late to intercept the creature. Within seconds, it had closed the distance, its relentless speed leaving Colm little time to react. Robin continued to unleash a relentless barrage of arrows at the advancing creature. Yet each time, the Pitchcaller seemed to sense the projectiles coming. With a sharp whistle, the arrows veered off course, twisting unnaturally away from their target. I don¡¯t know how it¡¯s doing that, Colm thought. But that¡¯s definitely not good. Gritting his teeth, Colm tensed and adjusted his stance, his mind racing through options. I can summon them back to me at the last second. That might give me an opening. The Pitchcaller was only a few feet away now, its skeletal grin widening as it prepared to strike. With a grunt, Colm activated his Phantom Warrior ability, summoning Carver between them, and immediately followed with Phantom Spearman, materializing Lance a step behind the creature. The moment the phantoms appeared, the Pitchcaller lunged. Its speed was blinding, unlike anything Colm had faced before. His stats barely allowed him to keep up as he parried the attack, deflecting the creature¡¯s razor-like claws with his spear. He countered with a swing, aiming to strike, but the Pitchcaller whistled again. This time, Colm didn¡¯t just see the effect¡ªhe felt it. The air around his spearhead grew unnaturally dense, as though it had struck an invisible wall. The weapon¡¯s trajectory shifted, forced to curve around the resistance. What the hell is this? Colm thought, his swing going wide and leaving him vulnerable. The Pitchcaller wasted no time exploiting the opening, lunging at Colm¡¯s exposed side with razor-sharp precision. But before it could land its blow, Carver¡¯s blade swung toward its face. The creature ducked beneath the attack, and the distraction gave Lance the opportunity to thrust his spear. The spectral weapon drove into the Pitchcaller¡¯s shoulder, a clean hit. Yet, the creature didn¡¯t so much as flinch. It moved forward with relentless purpose, its hollow eye sockets locked on Colm. The Pitchcaller ignored the damage from Lance''s spear, pressing on relentlessly toward its singular goal: Colm. Chapter 34: The Pitchcaller The fight fell into a brutal rhythm, a deadly dance between Colm and the Pitchcaller. The creature''s every movement, swipe, and step was a calculated attempt to kill him; its focus was unrelenting. Colm steeled himself, his muscles tense as he fought alongside his phantoms in a feverish onslaught. Their strikes came in rapid succession, forcing the Pitchcaller to weave and dodge with uncanny agility, denying it the opportunity to land a decisive blow. The battlefield became a chaotic symphony: the whistle of air from missed strikes, the determined grunts of effort, and the haunting, melodic whistles emanating from the creature. Colm¡¯s attempts to activate his phantom abilities mid-battle, hoping to catch the Pitchcaller off guard, yielded no success. Time and time again, the Pitchcaller thwarted his surprise attacks. Blow after blow failed to connect, his strikes disrupted by the creature¡¯s inhuman reflexes and the strange whistling defense that bent the air itself. Grunting in frustration, Colm managed to step back, giving his phantoms room to execute a coordinated salvo as the creature¡¯s focus on him waned. As the phantoms pressed the assault, Colm seized the moment to catch his breath and analyze the fight. It¡¯s faster than me. Stronger, too, he thought grimly, his eyes narrowing. The only thing keeping this even is my numbers. He replayed the encounter in his mind, piecing together what he had observed. It seems to have three abilities, as far as I can tell. His thoughts raced. The first is that piercing whistle it used to stun me and the phantoms. The second is the softer, melodic whistle that makes the surrounding air so dense that it forces attacks to veer off course. And the third¡­ Colm frowned, his mind zeroing in on the Pitchcaller¡¯s seemingly supernatural awareness. It¡¯s as if it can detect attacks the instant before they land. Maybe it¡¯s hearing something¡ªa faint sound that gives it just enough warning to react? He shook his head. Damn, this thing is strong. Before he could delve further, an arrow loosed by Robin streaked toward the creature. With a whistling tune, the Pitchcaller redirected the projectile mid-flight, sending it hurtling into Carver¡¯s chest. The strike triggered Spectral Persistence, causing the phantom warrior to dissolve into its faded form. Even in this weakened state, Carver launched into an onslaught of blows, striking with reckless abandon. But the Pitchcaller remained unfazed, weaving effortlessly through the attacks. Its movements were fluid and precise, as if it were taunting them with its superiority. Colm¡¯s jaw tightened as he refocused. If I don¡¯t figure out a way to break through soon, this fight is going to end badly. Especially if it can do that stun again. He thought as he activated his Phantom Warrior to bring Carver back into the fray. Trying to summon it atop the Pitchcaller for a surprise attack, to no avail. Colm had an epiphany as he watched another arrow from Robin streak through the air toward the Pitchcaller. A soft hum and faint whoosh followed the arrow¡¯s flight, and then¡ªjust as it neared the creature, it once again veered off course. It is the sound, Colm realized, his eyes narrowing as the pieces clicked together. Thinking quickly, Colm grabbed a handful of nearby stones. "Robin, fire the moment I throw," he commanded, his mind racing to test his theory. He steadied his breath, watching for an opening. The Pitchcaller, dodging a vicious spear thrust from Lance, stumbled ever so slightly off balance. Now! Colm wound his arm back and, with all the enhanced strength he could muster, flung the stone directly at the creature. The rock hurtled through the air with precision thanks to his dexterity, and not even a second later, Colm heard the faint whoosh of Robin¡¯s arrow trailing just behind it. As expected, the Pitchcaller let out a sharp whistle, diverting the rock with a shimmering distortion of the surrounding air. But then, in the briefest of moments as the "air wall" faded from the rock¡¯s impact, the arrow followed through¡ªuninterrupted. The Pitchcaller, focused on Carver and Lance¡¯s relentless assault, couldn¡¯t react in time. The arrow flew true, cutting through the narrow window of vulnerability. Colm watched as if in slow motion. The Pitchcaller turned, its empty eye sockets locking on the arrow, but it was too late. The arrow pierced straight through the creature¡¯s back, exiting with a straight through to the other side. The beast staggered, letting out a shrill whistle that cracked into silence as its movements faltered. For the first time in the fight, Colm saw a weakness. The creature stood momentarily stunned by the blow, giving Colm''s phantoms an opening to press the attack. As the fight resumed, something had changed. The Pitchcaller¡¯s movements shifted¡ªit was no longer toying with them. Its intent was clear. It wanted the battle over. Colm¡¯s eyes locked on the creature¡¯s face, and he felt a chill run down his spine. Its mouth twisted into an otherworldly grin, skin stretched tight over its jagged teeth. Then, with a sharp, piercing whistle, the surrounding air vibrated with an almost physical force. Shit. Colm clutched his head as his vision blurred, the sound piercing his skull like a thousand needles. Pain shot through him, clouding his thoughts. I can fight through this¡ªit¡¯s just some pain, he told himself, gritting his teeth. With immense effort, he forced his eyes open, blinking away the haze. A notification flickered in his vision, and he swiped it away instinctively. [ Skill Acquired ] Stun Resistance (Level 1) - Allows the user to better resist stun effects and recover more quickly. That explains why I recovered much faster this time around, Colm thought. His gaze snapped back to the battlefield, just in time to see the creature take advantage of his momentary delay from the stun. The Pitchcaller moved with terrifying speed, tearing through Lance, whose form had already flickered into Spectral Persistence. Lance¡¯s strikes in this weakened state barely scratched the creature, and Carver wasn¡¯t faring much better as the creature was upon the warrior with its clawed hand through its chest. The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Not good,¡± Colm muttered, activating his Phantom Spearman ability to re-materialize Lance behind the creature. Without hesitation, he reactivated Phantom Warrior, bringing Carver back into the fight. As a sound of rushing wind flew past his head, Colm noticed Robin''s arrows once again taking aim, their form no longer hindered. Looks like that skill helped Robin recover too, he noted mentally. The sudden reappearance of the phantoms surprised the Pitchcaller as it expected its foes to be incapacitated longer. In a desperate maneuver, it twisted to avoid Lance¡¯s spear but wasn¡¯t quick enough; the thrust tore into its side. Right as an arrow from Robin struck true, embedding itself deep into the creature¡¯s shoulder. The creature staggered momentarily but quickly reoriented itself, its hollow eye sockets locking onto Colm. It gave up any pretense of fighting the phantoms once again and refocused on the true threat, bursting into a dead sprint straight for him. ¡°Shit,¡± Colm hissed, his grip tightening on his spear. The creature¡¯s intent was clear¡ªit would not stop, no matter how many blows it took along the way. Even as Lance and Carver struck at its sides, and Robin¡¯s arrows rained down, the Pitchcaller pushed forward, undeterred, its sole focus on Colm. "Well, there goes my plan." Colm grumbled as the creature gave him no room to repeat the earlier trick he pulled. The flurry of blows resumed, and the Pitchcaller¡¯s renewed fury kept Colm firmly on the defensive. Each strike came faster and harder than the last, forcing him to focus entirely on staying alive. As the relentless barrage continued, Colm attempted to block a vicious swipe with his spear¡ªonly to hear the unmistakable crack of wood snapping. The weapon splintered in two, leaving him with little more than broken halves in his hands. Well, Colm thought dryly, that spear lasted longer than I expected. Without missing a beat, he adjusted his grip, wielding both fragments as makeshift weapons. As if the system had been waiting for this moment, a notification flashed into his vision. [ Skill Acquired ] Dual Wielding (Level 1) - Allows the user to adeptly use two one-handed weapons. ¡°Shut it,¡± Colm growled, swiping the notification away. There was no time for snark¡ªnot now. The battle raged on, a cacophony of swings, whistles, and heavy breathing keeping Colm¡¯s senses razor-sharp. The reduced reach of his broken spear only widened the gap in power between him and the Pitchcaller. As the creature pressed its advantage, drawing closer with each swipe. One narrow swing came so close that Colm felt the sharp wind from its claws graze his cheek. Too close. Sweat dripped down his brow as he fell into a rhythm, dodging and weaving through the onslaught. His muscles ached, and his mind raced, knowing that a single misstep would mean the end. The pressure mounted as Robin loosed another arrow toward the Pitchcaller. Colm heard the expected whistle, ready for the deflection. But to his shock, the arrow tore straight through the creature, embedding itself in its side. His eyes widened in disbelief. It didn¡¯t deflect it?! Before he could process what had changed, a sharp, searing pain sliced across his cheek and down his neck. The creature¡¯s claw had found its mark, catching him just as he thought he¡¯d moved out of range. Reeling from the sudden blow, Colm faltered. His mistimed step back sent him tumbling onto his back, the realization hitting him like a punch to the gut. It enhanced its range using that air shield. It hid that ace up its sleeve and it lured me in! The pain was sharp and disorienting, but there was no time to recover. The Pitchcaller was already on top of him pinning him down, its clawed hand pulled back, charged with deadly intent. Colm¡¯s heart pounded as he watched the creature grin, savoring its victory. Time seemed to slow as it thrust its hand forward, aiming for his chest. Shit, this is it, Colm thought, as he struggled to break free from the creature¡¯s grasp. But as his doom closed in, something shifted in the corner of his vision¡ªa brightly blue glowing spectral blade slicing through the air with deadly precision. Carver¡¯s swing connected, sending a shockwave reverberating through the area, cleaving cleanly through the creature¡¯s neck. The Pitchcaller¡¯s head separated from its body, the grin still etched onto its face as it tumbled to the ground. Colm blinked, his vision blurring as adrenaline and exhaustion overwhelmed him. He let out a shaky breath, his voice hoarse as he muttered through sputtering breaths, ¡°That was too close.¡± Pitchcaller (Level 80) Defeated. Experience Gained. Bonus experience granted for defeating a higher level enemy. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. Level Up! +5 Stat Points Available. New class abilities available. Barely able to glance at the notifications, Colm¡¯s mind raced, one sensation overwhelmed all others. I feel¡­ so cold, he thought, his breath shaky. Slowly, he looked up and saw the body of the Pitchcaller still sitting atop him, lifeless and unmoving. Colm¡¯s gaze followed the form of its outstretched arm and he saw its hand piercing deep into his own chest, all the while one glaring notification creeped out of the corner of his vision. You have been infected. Well, fuck, Colm thought, his mind hazy and slipping as he felt his hit points plummet from the damage. Desperation clawed at him as he slammed all his points into constitution, hoping to buy himself a few more moments. His vision blurred at the edges, darkness creeping in, but he forced himself to focus. There has to be something, he thought frantically, pulling up his list of new class abilities, already feeling the tug of the infection chip away at him while Lingering Vitality was fighting a losing battle as it tried to combat both the infection and the gaping hole in his chest. He scanned through the list, his heart pounding. Anything¡ªanything at all that can help. His hands trembled as he scrolled, each second feeling like an eternity as he searched for one last edge before he lost consciousness. New class abilities available. Select a new Class Passive Ability. Passive Ability: Phantom''s Lifeline (Level 1) Your soul is strengthened by the spirit realm, deepening your connection with your phantoms. Each time a phantom lands a successful critical hit, you regenerate 2% of your maximum health. Passive Ability: Spiritual Shield (Level 1) The spirit realm recognizes your worth and grants its protection. You gain a spectral shield equal to 10% of your maximum health, replenished slightly each time a phantom deals damage. Passive Ability: Death¡¯s Echo (Level 1) Upon defeating an enemy, there is a 50% chance to summon a temporary wraith that attacks nearby foes for 10 seconds before vanishing. The wraith is intangible and can attack with spectral magic and inflict status effects to hamper the enemy. Passive Ability: Phantom Synergy (Level 1) When two or more phantoms are active simultaneously, you gain a 5% increase to all stats and you gain a 3% increase in movement speed for each phantom currently summoned. Passive Ability: Phantom Sacrifice (Level 1) When you take fatal damage, your nearest active phantom absorbs the blow, sacrificing itself to save you. The phantom is destroyed, and you are left with 10% of your maximum health. Requires at least one phantom to be active and has a 60-minute cooldown and the sacrificed phantom cannot be summoned during the cooldown duration. Colm didn¡¯t hesitate the moment he saw Phantom Sacrifice. Without a second thought, he selected it hoping it would be enough. His vision blurred, then faded into complete darkness. Chapter 35: Internal Battle Colm lay there, drifting in and out of consciousness, unaware of the hours slipping by. Occasionally, in brief moments of lucidity, he would claw his way back to awareness¡ªjust enough to notice a missing phantom. Instinctively, he would tug at his mana, activate an ability, and then sink back into the suffocating void. In the darkness, dreams swarmed Colm¡¯s mind, pulling him back to his life on Earth. Vivid memories played like fragments of a forgotten film. A vision of the park he frequented as a child, the laughter of his younger self echoing through the air; the rhythmic sound of ocean waves as his parents took him to the beach; the bittersweet days of college, his first girlfriend¡¯s smile, and the gut-wrenching breakup that followed, softened only by his roommates¡¯ attempts to comfort him with pizza and marathon gaming sessions. But then the dreams darkened. A car accident came into focus¡ªthe screech of tires, the blinding headlights of the oncoming car, a drunk driver swerving into their lane. He screamed, trying to warn them, but no one heard him. His faded, powerless form watched helplessly as it all unfolded in agonizing slow motion¡ªhis parents, his wife¡­ his family in the twisted wreckage. The man who caused it all, laughing, as he walked away without a scratch on him. The scene shifted again, cruelly relentless. He saw the funeral, felt the weight of grief pressing into him as tears blurred into his face. Then, as his spectral self faded further into the abyss, Colm saw himself¡ªsitting alone at his desk, hollow and detached. The cellphone on his desk rang incessantly, friends reaching out, pleading for him to answer. But he ignored it time and time again. Time sped up, the days blurring into years. He watched his reflection, day after day, trapped in a routine of emptiness, the man he once was reduced to a mere shell. The visions finally faded as darkness greeted him once again. Inside his body, a relentless battle for dominance raged. The brutal infection tore through his veins, spreading with terrifying speed to every corner of his being. Yet his Lingering Vitality flared like a fragile candle in the darkness, struggling to push back the encroaching corruption. His abilities and body fought desperately in tandem, straining to close the gaping wound in his chest. A war between life and death, with no guarantee of victory, pushed every fiber of his being to its absolute limit. Time became meaningless as the hours drifted on. The hole in his chest closed agonizingly slowly, as if his body and class abilities were giving everything they had just to hold him together. Two wars waged within him¡ªone against the infection threatening to consume him, the other against the physical trauma that refused to heal. This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Like clockwork, Colm would stir, clawing his way back from the suffocating void into brief moments of awareness. Each awakening brought a wave of searing pain that tore through his body, wrenching inhuman groans from his throat. Instinct took over¡ªhis trembling hands reached for his mana, summoning his missing phantoms to stand guard. The act was agony, the flow of mana burning like molten fire through his veins, but the spectral forms flickered to life, their silent vigilance the only defense he could muster. And then, the crushing heat returned, relentless and all-consuming, dragging him back into the darkness. Each time he faded, the sounds lingered¡ªdistant but unmistakable. The faint twang of arrows being loosed. The guttural groans of the undead prowling near, their presence gnawing at the edges of his consciousness. He could do nothing but listen, trapped in a cycle of helplessness, as a battle raged on without him. Days bled into one another as Colm writhed on the ground, the infection relentlessly advancing, slowly overpowering his durability. His body grew colder, the numbing chill creeping inch by inch as the infection claimed more and more of him. The fight seemed endless¡ªuntil something shifted. The cold faded away, replaced by a sudden surge of warmth flooding through his body. Heat radiated from within, seeping into every limb, breathing life into places where decay had firmly taken hold. It was as if a sun had ignited deep inside him, its light pushing into the darkest, most unreachable parts of his being. For the first time in days, Colm felt a fragile sense of relief as the relentless pain dulled to something almost manageable. Though his body remained motionless, the faintest hint of reprieve was clear in his still form. With that light came change¡ªthe infection''s relentless advance faltered, slowing to a crawl. Something within him had awakened¡ªa spark of resistance, a flicker of strength that didn¡¯t merely delay the infection but began pushing back against it. It was a second wind, a chance to defy the consuming darkness that had threatened to claim him entirely. Colm¡¯s will shone through, unyielding, refusing to surrender. The faint spark grew brighter with every moment, feeding on his resolve until it roared into a blazing inferno, burning away the shadow that sought to overwhelm him. Time lost all meaning as the days blurred together. Colm¡¯s movements slowed until his body lay still, no longer writhing in torment. Yet the cycle remained¡ªbrief moments of fragile lucidity where instinct guided him to summon his phantoms, flickering visions of his life on Earth, and then the inevitable pull of darkness that dragged him back under. His breaths were shallow, his form teetering on the edge of stillness, locked in an endless war¡ªone against the infection ravaging his body, the other for sheer survival. Yet, beneath it all, something stirred. His body, though battered, was growing stronger, the faintest trace of resilience building with each passing moment. Whether it would be enough, Colm couldn¡¯t know. Finally, after nearly a month of constant struggle, Colm''s body stilled completely. Chapter 36: A New Body Coughing violently, Colm shot upright, struggling to pull in a full breath as ragged gasps tore through his chest. The fit wracked his body for several agonizing moments before subsiding, leaving him hunched over and trembling. ¡°Holy shit, I¡¯m alive,¡± he rasped, his voice hoarse, as though unused for days. Slowly, Colm took in his surroundings, his memories flooding back in a disorienting wave. The crater¡­ Brimwhistle¡­ the horde of undead. He blinked, his gaze falling on the decaying body of the Pitchcaller sprawled nearby. The sight sent a jolt through him, a visceral reminder of the fight. It stabbed right through me. His chest ached at the memory of the final blow. Heart pounding, Colm¡¯s hands flew to his chest, fingers fumbling over where the fatal wound had been. The hole was gone, the flesh eerily whole¡ªbut his skin wasn¡¯t the same. He froze, staring down at his hands. The ashen gray color, and the muted texture of his skin made it look as though soot covered him. ¡°What¡­ is this?¡± he whispered, turning his hands over and over, his mind racing as he tried to comprehend the change. The change wasn¡¯t just on his hands¡ªhis arms, his body. Everything he could see had the same pallid, lifeless hue. Wait¡­ shit. A notification. It said I was infected. Colm¡¯s breathing grew rapid, teetering on the edge of hyperventilation as panic clawed at his mind. Calm down. I need to calm down, he thought, forcing himself to close his eyes and steady his breaths. Inhale. Exhale. Slowly, the tension dissipated. My mind is intact. I¡¯m alive. Let¡¯s take this a step at a time. With shaky hands, Colm opened his eyes and steadied himself. He pushed down the rising anxiety and began pulling up the flood of notifications, ready to piece together what had happened. You have been infected. Stun Resistance has increased to Level 5. Dual Wielding has increased to Level 4. Phantom Warrior has tiered up to Tier 2, Level 1. Phantom Warrior has increased to Tier 2, Level 2. Phantom Archer has increased to Level 10. Hardened Skin has increased to Level 8. Pain Resistance has increased to Level 10. Pain Resistance has tiered up to Tier 2, Level 1. Spectral Persistence has increased to Level 10. Phantom Sacrifice has increased to Level 10. Lingering Vitality has increased to Level 10. Lingering Vitality has tiered up to Tier 2, Level 1. Lingering Vitality has increased to Tier 2, Level 10. [ Skill Acquired ] Infection Resistance (Level 1) - Your body has endured the corruption of the undead longer than most, developing a natural resilience. This skill enhances your body¡¯s ability to resist and combat undead infections, slowing their progression and improving recovery. Infection Resistance has increased to Level 10. Infection Resistance has tiered up to Tier 2, Level 1. Infection Resistance has increased to Tier 2, Level 10. Infection Resistance has tiered up to Tier 3, Level 1. Infection Resistance has increased to Tier 3, Level 10. [ Congratulations! You have advanced your race from Tier 2 Human to Tier 3 Morvyn! As a Tier 3 Morvyn, you have unlocked newfound innate abilities tied to your race: Twilight Sight - Linked to the cycle of life and death, Morvyn possess the ability to pierce through even the deepest shadows. In total darkness, their vision becomes as clear as daylight, allowing them to see the world in crisp detail. When active, their eyes glow with an ethereal blue light. Infection Immunity - Unlike most who succumb to the undead infection, the Morvyn are fully immune to the disease. They exist outside its grasp, neither undead nor carriers, and are incapable of spreading the infection to others. Lifebound Sustenance - Through their innate connection to life energy, the Morvyn are sustained without the need for food, water, or sleep. The constant flow of life energy fuels their bodies, providing all the nourishment and rest they require functioning at peak condition. Timeless Existence - The Morvyn cease to age upon transformation, their bodies locked in a state of eternal vitality. They remain preserved indefinitely at the age of their ascension, untouched by passing time. ] "Well, that''s a lot to take in," Colm muttered, trying to steady himself as the weight of it all settled in. "I guess I''ll just take it one step at a time and try not to freak out about the whole not being human anymore thing." His voice wavered slightly as he worked to process the overwhelming flood of information. I guess we¡¯ll start with the obvious¡ªI¡¯m not human anymore. I¡¯m a Morvyn now, Colm thought, shaking his head in disbelief. What the hell does that even mean? He focused on the unfamiliar word, hoping the system would clarify. As if answering his silent request, a screen materialized before him, displaying information about his new race. [ The Morvyn are rare individuals who survive the corruption of undeath, their humanity preserved but forever altered by the infection¡¯s aftermath. Most who contract the infection either perish outright or succumb, becoming mindless husks. Only an extraordinarily rare few¡ªthose with unparalleled resilience, inner strength, or unique circumstances¡ªcan resist the infection long enough to overcome it. These survivors emerge as Morvyn, freed from the curse yet irrevocably changed. They are beings who walk the fragile line between life and death, their existence forever tethered to both realms. ] I guess the good news is I still have my humanity, Colm thought, his gaze lingering on the description of the Morvyn race. The line about walking between life and death stuck with him, a sobering reminder of his transformation. For better or worse, this is what I am now, he concluded, exhaling slowly as he tried to accept the new reality laid before him. Okay¡­ well, let¡¯s focus on the pros of this transformation, Colm thought, trying to steady himself as he processed the influx of new information. I¡¯ve got some incredible abilities now. I can see in the dark¡ªTwilight Sight, right? Something about my eyes glowing blue when it¡¯s in use, too. I¡¯ll have to check that out the next time I see my reflection. He continued mentally listing the changes and let out a slow breath. The big one is immunity to the undead curse. He huffed a short, bitter laugh. Well, that would¡¯ve been convenient a little earlier, but better late than never. At least I don¡¯t have to worry about turning into one of those things now. His thoughts drifted to the Lifebound Sustenance ability. This one¡¯s insane¡ªno more food, no more water, no need to sleep. That¡¯s amazing. He paused, a smirk tugging at his lips. Though I wonder, can I still eat if I want to? Can I still take naps? I really hope so. I don¡¯t want the Celestial Blooms to be the last thing I¡¯ve ever tasted. Finally, his mind settled on the most surreal change¡ªTimeless Existence. The weight of it hit him differently, quieter and heavier. I won¡¯t age anymore. I don¡¯t have to worry about growing old. Ever. A pang of emotion surfaced as an old memory flickered in his mind¡ªhis grandmother, frail and fading with time, her once-vibrant spirit dimming as the years took their toll. He remembered sitting beside her, watching her hands shake as she struggled to recall his name. With a twinge of sadness, Colm shook the memory away, returning his focus to the present. It¡¯s a strange comfort, not having to worry about that happening to me, he thought, though he couldn¡¯t quite decide if it was a blessing or a curse. After reading through the details of the Morvyn race and its unique abilities a few more times, Colm decided it was time to move past the race changes. His focus shifted to the next set of notifications¡ªthe ability tier-ups. I knew there had to be something past Level 10, he thought, a flicker of excitement breaking through. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. With anticipation building, he pulled up the notifications and began scanning through the abilities that had advanced, eager to see what new potential had been unlocked. Focusing first on his class abilities first, he pulled up the old description of the ability to compare against the new one. [ Passive Ability: Lingering Vitality (Level 1) Slowly regenerate health over time when out of combat, drawing on the presence of the spirit realm to sustain yourself. ] [ Passive Ability: Lingering Vitality (Tier 2, Level 10) Your connection to the spirit realm has deepened, allowing its energy to sustain you with unparalleled strength. Rapidly regenerate health when out of combat. Slowly regenerate health during combat. ] [ Active Ability: Phantom Warrior (Level 1) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral warrior to aid you in combat, engaging enemies in close-range melee attacks with powerful, precise strikes. Only one Phantom Warrior can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current warrior. ] [ Active Ability: Phantom Warrior (Tier 2, Level 2) Mana: 25% of your total mana Summon a single empowered spectral warrior, a stronger and more resilient manifestation of the spirit realm. Only one Phantom Warrior can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current warrior. The Phantom Warrior can now use Ripping Cleave. Ripping Cleave causes the warrior''s blade to glow blue and unleashes a sweeping strike that cleaves through multiple enemies in a cone-shaped area, dealing 150% weapon damage. This attack applies a Spectral Rend debuff, causing enemies hit to take additional damage over 5 seconds. Ripping Cleave has a cooldown of 30 seconds. ] ¡°Holy shit,¡± Colm muttered, his eyes widening as he scrolled through the class ability tier-ups. The upgrades were staggering. Okay, so tier-ups are a thing¡ªand my phantoms get their own abilities too. It looks like the mana cost increased a ton, though. It''s now percentage based. A spark of excitement flared in his chest as he rubbed his chin, thinking about the changes. ¡°Carver, use that Ripping Cleave ability,¡± he commanded absentmindedly. But as the words left his mouth, an eerie stillness lingered around him. His gaze darted around, and the realization hit him like a punch to the gut. Carver wasn¡¯t there. Only Lance stood by his side, his spectral form silent as ever. Colm¡¯s breath hitched, his eyes widening. Where¡¯s Carver? His gaze flickered to his status sheet, landing on Phantom Sacrifice. It was now Level 10. ¡°How many times did I die?¡± he whispered, a chill crawling down his spine. Panic rising, Colm hastily re-summoned his missing phantoms, his mana surging in a way he hadn¡¯t felt before. The added cost of Phantom Warrior hit him like a weight, unfamiliar and draining as he struggled to adjust. Wincing, he pressed a hand to his head, only to freeze as something caught his eye. His ashy gray skin now had faint, glowing blue lines coursing through it, like cracks filled with light. The lines pulsed softly, flowing from his hand, up his arm, and across his chest, as if the mana inside him had become visible. The sight was unnerving yet mesmerizing¡ªa reminder of his transformation. Shaking off the distraction, Colm forced his focus back on the task at hand. Robin appeared first, spectral bow in hand, the faint glow of the phantom¡¯s presence cutting through the gloom like a steady beacon. A wave of relief washed over him¡ªtheir appearance was a small comfort in the chaos. Moments later, Carver materialized, its imposing figure rising from the ether like a silent sentinel, the faint clink of newly enhanced armor marking its arrival. Colm exhaled shakily, steadying himself as his phantoms took their places at his side. For the first time in what felt like forever, he wasn¡¯t alone. Colm¡¯s gaze lingered on Carver, and his brow furrowed as he noticed something different. The phantom¡¯s armor, once primarily leather, now shimmered in the light. It looked heavier¡ªreinforced. Is that chainmail? Colm wondered, his eyes tracing the improved details. The added protection gave Carver a more formidable appearance, an evolution that hadn¡¯t gone unnoticed. He let out a shaky breath, relief mingling with unease. What the hell happened while I was out? Shaking off the lingering dread, he focused on the Phantom Sacrifice description, something he¡¯d grabbed hastily during his last moments before he blacked out but never truly processed. Passive Ability: Phantom Sacrifice (Level 10) When you take fatal damage, your nearest active phantom absorbs the blow, sacrificing itself to save you. The phantom is destroyed, and you are left with 10% 30% of your maximum health. Requires at least one phantom to be active and has a 60-minute 15-minute cooldown and the sacrificed phantom cannot be summoned during the cooldown duration. Colm let out a slow breath, reading the ability again to ensure he had missed nothing. This passive is insane, he thought, a mixture of awe and unease settling in his chest. He noted the increased health and reduced cooldown now that it had reached Level 10¡ªa drastic improvement from the original values. But the bigger question loomed in his mind: How many times did this activate while I was unconscious? He clenched his fists, the weight of that realization sinking in. Carver, Robin, and Lance had been on their own, sacrificing themselves repeatedly to keep him alive. His phantoms¡ªhis lifeline¡ªhad endured his failure, and the thought left a bitter taste in his mouth. ¡°I owe you all,¡± Colm said quietly, glancing at the spectral figures standing around him. Carver¡¯s presence seemed as solid and dependable as ever, Robin¡¯s bow lowered slightly, and Lance stood stoic as always. Even though they didn¡¯t speak, Colm felt their loyalty¡ªthe silent, unwavering bond they shared. This passive kept me alive, Colm thought grimly, but at what cost? He looked down at his hand, still faintly trembling. The knowledge that he¡¯d skirted the edge of death¡ªrepeatedly¡ªleft him feeling raw and exposed. His grip tightened. I need to get stronger. If I¡¯m going to rely on these abilities to survive, I can¡¯t let them carry me like this forever. Refocusing, Colm turned his attention back to his ability tier-ups. Carver, activate Ripping Cleave, he commanded mentally. His gaze locked on Carver as the phantom¡¯s spectral blade glowed with a haunting blue light. The sight triggered a sudden flash of memory¡ªthose last moments of the battle. That same glow had been there, cutting through the chaos just before Colm lost consciousness. Carver must¡¯ve tiered up before the finishing blow and tried to save me, Colm realized, a faint chuckle escaping him. It¡¯s like one of those shows I used to watch back on Earth, where things evolved at the last possible moment. I think it even happened out of spite once. Shaking his head, Colm focused as Carver swung the glowing blade. A faint cone of energy radiated outward, slicing through the air in a deadly arc. Colm¡¯s lips curled into a grin as he mentally noted the effect. Finally, an AOE ability. Okay, now all that¡¯s left are the skills, Colm thought, pulling up the ones that had tiered up alongside their previous descriptions. [ Pain Resistance (Level 1) - Through repeated exposure, you¡¯ve built a tolerance to pain, allowing you to endure discomfort and minor injuries with reduced sensitivity. ] [ Pain Resistance (Tier 2, Level 1) - Your tolerance to pain has transcended normal limits. Minor injuries barely register, and moderate injuries are dulled heavily, allowing you to maintain focus and combat efficiency even when wounded. The mental strain caused by severe injuries is also reduced. ] [ Infection Resistance (Level 1) - Your body has endured the corruption of the undead longer than most, developing a natural resilience. This skill enhances your body¡¯s ability to resist and combat undead infections, slowing their progression and improving recovery. ] [ Infection Resistance (Tier 2, Level 10) - Your resistance to corruption has strengthened. Infections now struggle to take hold, their effects slowed significantly. Minor infections are neutralized entirely, while moderate infections lose potency over time. Your body recovers more efficiently from lingering effects. ] [ Infection Resistance (Tier 3, Level 10) - Your body has become a fortress against corruption. Any attempts to infect you are greatly weakened, reducing their effectiveness by 90%. Additionally, when struck by an infection based attack, there is a 20% chance to purge the attack¡¯s lingering effects entirely and send out a wave of purifying energy, dealing 5% of your maximum Health as damage to nearby enemies in a 5-meter radius. ] Okay, that¡¯s a lot of good information and upgrades, Colm thought, a faint smirk crossing his face. Having to deal with less pain is always a plus¡ªI¡¯m definitely not complaining about that. He nodded to himself as he scrolled through the updates. The Infection Resistance is a surprise too. Tier 3 in one go? That¡¯s insane. He paused, reading over the effect. That bonus is no joke. Not having to really worry about infections ever again is a lifesaver with that 90% reduction. He frowned briefly, considering. There¡¯s a bit of overlap with my Morvyn racial traits, but it¡¯s still a huge win overall. Colm took a deep breath, processing the upgrades and newfound strength surging through him. I think that¡¯s pretty much everything now¡ªall the major upgrades. I feel a hell of a lot stronger and more prepared. He exhaled slowly, shaking off the lingering haze. Still reeling from everything, Colm focused on his original goal: Find people. His gaze fell to the Pitchcaller¡¯s decaying corpse, and a flicker of anger bubbled to the surface. The memories it had dragged out of him, the pain it had caused¡ªIt toyed with me and put me through hell. Without hesitation, Colm pulled back his foot and kicked the body with all his might, sending it flying across the crater. "Bitch." [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Morvyn Level: 60 Health: 1450 / 1450 Mana: 536 / 630 Strength: 65 (78) Dexterity: 70 (84) Intelligence: 105 (126) Constitution: 121 (145) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Tier 2, Level 2) [Carver] - Phantom Spearman (Level 10) [Lance] - Phantom Archer (Level 10) [Robin] - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Tier 2, Level 10) - Spectral Persistence (Level 10) - Phantom Sacrifice (Level 10) - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 4) - Stealth (Level 7) - Pain Resistance (Tier 2, Level 1) - Hardened Skin (Level 8) - Slash Resistance (Level 7) - Spear Mastery (Level 10) - Sprint Mastery (Level 10) - Poison Resistance (Level 6) - Stun Resistance (Level 5) - Dual Wielding (Level 4) - Infection Resistance (Tier 3, Level 10) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Champion of the Lucent Grove - Bane of the Undead Chapter 37: Inside the Crater Colm stared into the crater, his new vision flooding the scene with clarity. The world around him seemed sharper, more vibrant, as Twilight Sight took effect, effortlessly cutting through the oppressive darkness. The shadows that once obscured the crater were now nothing more than muted grays, and every edge of the ruins stood out in stark detail. At the center, he spotted it¡ªa small chamber dug deep into the earth, barely noticeable and now wide open. He glanced at his phantoms, their forms steady and waiting for his command. ¡°If there¡¯s anything down there,¡± Colm muttered, his voice firm, ¡°it¡¯s in that chamber.¡± With purpose, he stepped forward, his phantoms silently following. As they made their way through the fractured ruins of the crater, his eyes fell on the stone steps in the newly opened chamber etched into its walls, spiraling downward into the ground like a beckoning path into the abyss. Thanks to Twilight Sight, Colm could see clearly what lay below. The steps wound downward for nearly a hundred feet, ending at the mouth of what appeared to be a new hallway carved into the earth. It felt ancient, untouched for countless years. Colm exhaled a determined breath, his grip tightening on his spear. ¡°Carver,¡± he called, his voice steady, ¡°take point.¡± The Phantom Warrior stepped forward, its armor gleaming faintly with spectral light, the enhancements from its recent upgrade giving it an even more imposing presence. Carver¡¯s spectral blade hummed softly, its glow promising devastation. The phantom moved ahead, leading the way, ready to unleash Ripping Cleave at the first sign of danger. Colm followed closely behind, his heart steadying as they descended step by step into the depths. Carver led the way, the Phantom Warrior''s form paving the path ahead with calculated precision. Nothing emerged to attack, the silence settling heavily around them like a blanket. Colm let Carver move far ahead, maintaining a safe distance, before following with Lance and Robin at his side. When Carver finally reached the bottom and continued into the hallway beyond, Colm paused for a moment, lingering at the base of the staircase. He waited, ears straining for any signs of movement or traps. Minutes passed. Nothing. Shrugging off his unease, he pressed forward, his phantoms flanking him as they advanced into the darkened corridor. The hallway stretched long before him¡ªroughly 80 feet, Colm estimated¡ªits length disappearing into shadow. ¡°Where does this lead, and why is it even here?¡± he muttered under his breath, his voice barely above a whisper. The stone walls seemed unnervingly smooth, their surface unnaturally pristine despite the passage of time. At the far end, Carver stood motionless before a massive door, its presence looming in the dim glow of Colm''s Twilight Sight. As he approached, the grim details came into view. The door was scratched, dented, and smeared with streaks of dried blood. ¡°Well¡­ this has to be where the Pitchcaller was trapped,¡± Colm murmured, his eyes narrowing as he examined the door. Its surface, worn down and battered, told a tale of relentless struggle. Deep gouges marred the metal, and dents covered its structure¡ªevidence of something powerful repeatedly slamming against it. Yet despite the years of wear and abuse, the metal kept an unnatural shine, reminiscent of polished steel. It looked eerily similar to a vault door, the kind Colm had seen in banks back on Earth. ¡°I guess magic made this, too,¡± he muttered, awe flickering across his features as he ran a hand along its surface. The door was still mostly closed, a narrow gap visible but far too small to squeeze through. Colm stepped forward, gripping its edge with both hands. At first, the door refused to budge, the resistance surprising him even with his enhanced strength. Gritting his teeth, he dug in his heels and pulled harder, the effort straining every muscle in his body. The door groaned in protest; the sound of screeching through the narrow hallway like a wail of agony. Slowly, inch by inch, it moved. Metal scraped against stone, the sound grating in his ears as he pulled with everything he had. Finally, the gap widened just enough for him to slip through. Colm released the door, huffing as he straightened up. ¡°That was surprisingly difficult,¡± he said, exhaling sharply as he wiped his hands on his pants. He turned back to his phantoms, silently nodding to signal them forward. A reason existed for locking whatever lay beyond this door away, and Colm wasn''t about to let his guard down. As Colm stepped into the room, his Twilight Sight illuminated every corner, making it as bright as day. The space was smaller than he expected, resembling an underground bunker hastily converted into an office. Haphazardly piled supplies lay against the far wall¡ªempty containers were scattered, their worn surfaces suggesting they had once held food or water. In the center of the room, a toppled desk dominated the space, its legs twisted awkwardly as though someone had thrown it aside. Torn papers, remnants of a forgotten struggle, lay strewn across the floor. But what immediately caught Colm¡¯s attention was the dark, dried pool of blood beside the desk. His stomach turned as he stared at it. There was nothing else here that it could be from¡ªit had to belong to the Pitchcaller. There was nothing else down here that could explain it. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Colm swept his gaze across the room, his senses sharp and his body tense, searching for any hint of movement or danger. His phantoms spread out to scour the small space, their silent forms shifting through the debris, but they found nothing¡ªno enemies, no traps. The room felt unnervingly still. Finally, letting his shoulders relax, Colm exhaled a breath he hadn¡¯t realized he¡¯d been holding. ¡°Finally, something that¡¯s not just broken ruins everywhere,¡± he muttered, his voice breaking the silence. There was a flicker of relief as he scanned the room once more, the quiet and stillness a welcome reprieve after everything he had been through. For the first time in what felt like hours, maybe days, it was just still. Colm let out one more sigh as he stepped forward, his boots lightly scraping against the stone floor. His gaze fell on the overturned desk and the scattered papers strewn across the room like fallen leaves. Most of the pages were torn, smudged, or completely illegible, far beyond repair. But among the chaos, something caught his eye¡ªa small, battered journal lying near the desk, its spine still intact and a few pages seemingly untouched by time. With a flicker of hope, Colm crouched down and picked it up, brushing off a thin layer of dust. His fingers flipped open the cover, his pulse quickening. Please let this be something. Anything. As he opened the journal, the scribbled symbols on the pages began to shift and reshape, the strange markings morphing into coherent letters thanks to his Through the Rift achievement. His eyes scanned the first legible passages, each word drawing him in deeper. This is someone¡¯s journal, he realized, the handwriting hurried but deliberate. His brow furrowed as he focused intently on the text. A part of him wondered if this could have belonged to the Pitchcaller¡ªor perhaps someone who had once lived here, sealing whatever secrets this place held within these pages. ¡­It¡¯s been eight months since the change. My supplies are running low, and the surrounding buildings have nothing left to offer. I need to venture further. My family is gone. I¡¯ve seen their lifeless bodies come back, twisted and hollow, and they haunt me in my dreams. I¡­ I had to put them down with my own two hands. It broke me. Everything was destroyed in the shift. This town¡ªmy Brimwhistle¡ªthe place I worked so hard to build¡­ ruined. The ¡®system¡¯ changed everything. It moved the land, and tore the world apart. I miss the ocean. I miss the sound of the crashing waves, the way the horizon stretched endlessly before me. Now there¡¯s just silence and rot. But it wasn¡¯t all loss. The ¡®system¡¯ gave me strength, strength I never thought possible. It¡¯s something else. It lets me manipulate the air with incredible precision. It¡¯s saved my life more than once¡­ As Colm flipped through the pages, he found most of them smudged and tattered beyond repair. The ink had bled, words faded into illegible streaks. Frustration gnawed at him as he turned page after ruined page¡ªuntil he reached the end. There, a small snippet of text remained, barely legible, but just clear enough to make out. ¡­was a mistake. I should have never gone out today. There was this monster. It was unlike any others. It spoke. It¡­ it infected me. I have little time left here, but at least I could help her. I helped her escape north to where those others went before. I was about to leave too, but it¡­ it got me. It''s only a matter of time now¡­ Colm couldn¡¯t make out any more words; the rest of the page was smeared with blood and torn beyond recognition. He let out a breath, running a hand through his hair. Oh shit. This had to be the Pitchcaller¡¯s journal from before it was infected. It was already incredibly deadly as an undead, but how strong was he when he was alive? And that other creature he mentioned¡ªwhat the hell was that? At least there¡¯s some useful information here. He straightened, glancing around in thought. If north is where the other survivor went, then that¡¯s where I¡¯ll go. I don¡¯t have any other choices. The thought settled like a stone in his chest, heavy but resolute. At least with this new body, I don¡¯t need food or water. Hopefully, I can make the trip quickly. I wonder how long and fast I can run in this new body if everything is provided for me. Can I just run at top speed without a care in the world? Colm snapped out of his thoughts and spent the next few hours scouring the chamber for anything of value. His phantoms searched alongside him, their spectral forms drifting through the debris with silent efficiency. Watching them work, Colm couldn¡¯t help but chuckle to himself. ¡°It¡¯s nice having some helpers,¡± he muttered. ¡°They¡¯re versatile¡ªmore than just fighters. Turns out they¡¯re pretty handy for the small stuff, too.¡± The search continued for a while, but the room offered little beyond dust and ruin. Colm eventually called it off with a sigh, realizing the space was too small to hide much else. ¡°Looks like the journal¡¯s all I¡¯m getting out of this,¡± he murmured, tucking it carefully away. With nothing left to find, Colm turned toward the stone steps leading back to the surface. His phantoms flanked him as he ascended, their silent presence a constant reassurance. As he reached the top, the faint light of the overcast sky greeted him, and he stepped out of the crater, the journal in hand¡ªa lone piece of the past that still held answers. He took one last look around Brimwhistle, his enhanced vision allowing him to see the ruins in striking clarity. For the first time, he truly took in the remnants of the city¡ªthe shattered stone, the crumbling buildings, the eerie beauty of what remained. It really is something. I would¡¯ve loved to see this place in its prime. His gaze fell to the body of the Pitchcaller, still lying lifeless across the crater¡¯s edge. Colm muttered quietly, ¡°I hope you can rest now.¡± Turning away, he steeled himself and set out, leaving the crater behind. But after only a few steps, he froze in place, a realization dawning. ¡°Which fucking way is north?¡± Chapter 38: North Colm stood in place, scratching his head as he tried to figure out which way was north. He couldn¡¯t assume anything¡ªthere was no telling if this world¡¯s sun followed the same rules or if the breeze favored any direction. The thought of navigating in a completely foreign world made his head spin. This whole time, he¡¯d been wandering aimlessly, picking random directions and hoping for the best. There had been no rhyme or reason to his choices¡ªjust blind luck and stubborn determination. With a sigh, Colm shook his head. Navigating in a foreign world was an entirely different ball game, and he was playing without a rulebook. ¡°How the hell am I supposed to do this?¡± he muttered, scanning his surroundings. His eyes narrowed as he mulled over the problem, frustration creeping in¡ªuntil a sudden thought struck him. ¡°Carver¡­ start walking north.¡± The phantom turned silently to its left and began walking without hesitation. Colm stared, dumbfounded for a moment, before breaking into incredulous laughter. ¡°Holy shit! I can¡¯t believe that worked!¡± He pointed after Carver, still grinning like an idiot. ¡°You better be walking north, or I¡¯m screwed.¡± With his direction set, Colm took off. He ran at a steady, almost effortless pace¡ªone he knew he could maintain for hours. Carver remained by his side, a silent guardian, while his other phantoms continued their constant vigilance, cutting down any undead that dared approach. Notifications flickered in his vision, chronicling the steady stream of enemies being felled, but Colm barely paid them any mind. Whether it was the strength of his enhanced body or his new race, he felt as though he could run forever. So, he pushed himself harder, picking up speed as the cursed forest blurred around him. The endless expanse of trees whipped past a dark, monotonous stretch that seemed to have no end. Time felt like it melted away as the forest gradually brightened, the faintest rays of light piercing the veil of shadow and mist. Day must have come, but Colm didn¡¯t stop¡ªhe didn¡¯t need rest, food, or water. His new body, free from those limitations, pushed onward. One step after another. One thought on his mind: Find people. The day blurred by as he kept this unrelenting pace. His legs moved as if on instinct, strong and tireless, while his mind remained focused. The undead came, but less often now. What had once been an endless onslaught dwindled, the encounters spaced by minutes instead of seconds. The surrounding forest seemed to reflect the change as the fog thinned and the air felt lighter. And the trees¡ªthey were growing less dense, as if he were approaching the forest''s edge. More light broke through the branches, and for the first time, Colm felt hope spark in his chest. Encouraged, he pressed on. The cursed forest slowly gave way to something new and the twisted, fog-covered trees fell behind him, and at last, he stepped into a wide, open clearing. The sight brought him to a halt. Flatlands stretched out before him for miles¡ªlush, sunlit, and free of the oppressive gloom. The fog was gone, replaced by a clear, endless sky. The sun shone down in full force, and Colm stood frozen, feeling its warmth on his skin. He tilted his head back, eyes closed, letting the golden rays bathe him in their glow. ¡°This feels incredible,¡± he whispered, the words barely audible. A wide smile spread across his face¡ªunrestrained and genuine, the smile he hadn¡¯t worn in a long, long time. For minutes, he simply stood there, basking in the sunlight as though it were healing him from the inside out. All the pain, the brushes with death, the endless challenges¡ªall of it melted away in this single, perfect moment. It felt like everything he had endured had been worth it just for this. I¡¯m alive. Colm didn¡¯t know how long he stood there, but he didn¡¯t care. In that moment, he was truly happy¡ªa feeling he hadn¡¯t allowed himself to experience in years. For the first time in years, he felt peace. Shaking off the euphoric feeling, Colm walked forward for a few minutes before turning around. He stared at the oppressive forest that had held him captive for so long, now observing it from a distance. The sight was striking. There was a clear, almost unnatural distinction between the vibrant life of the plains he now stood on and the cursed forest behind him. The trees stretched wide, an endless expanse of twisted branches and shadow, but they all halted at the same invisible line¡ªas if the dead zone itself obeyed some unseen boundary, unable to spread further. The stark contrast between the cursed forest and the vibrant plains unsettled him. It wasn¡¯t just a shift in scenery¡ªit felt deliberate, an unmistakable divide between death and life. Inside that accursed forest, there had been nothing but the undead, devoid of any wildlife. But here¡­ here, he could already see movement in the distance. Small, barely noticeable¡ªperhaps a mouse or something similar. His brow furrowed as he tried to make sense of it. This just raises more questions, he thought, shaking his head. Why is it like this? What caused such a stark divide? Colm stood there, silently taking it in. His eyes traced the treeline, that dark wall of despair that had loomed over him for so long. It was strange seeing it like this, so distant and contained, yet knowing firsthand the horrors it held within. That place was a prison, he thought, one that almost broke me. ¡°I¡¯m finally free,¡± he whispered aloud, his voice carrying a mix of relief and bitterness. ¡°I never want to go back there.¡± As he stood there, the wind swept gently across the plains, carrying with it the scent of open air and life. Colm turned his back on the treeline once more, his thoughts lingering. He may have escaped, but the forest¡¯s shadow still loomed in his mind. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.
The Morvyn race really is incredible. I haven¡¯t needed sleep, food, or water, and I¡¯ve been running at a fast pace for what had to have been an entire day since I''ve left the forest, Colm thought, glancing over at Carver as the phantom ran beside him. Lance and Robin maintained their usual patrol, their forms drifting effortlessly in a wide perimeter around him. He had lost track of time since leaving the cursed forest¡ªhad it been nearly a full day? Maybe more. He frowned, scanning the endless horizon ahead. The land stretched out in an unbroken expanse, rolling plains extending as far as the eye could see. This world is massive, he thought. I must have run the length of my entire home state by now¡ªif not more. Yet, it had been nothing but open fields, a vast emptiness broken only by brief glimpses of life. Strange creatures flickered at the edges of his vision as he sped past, but he hadn¡¯t stopped to investigate. North was his focus. After another relentless day, Colm finally slowed as a shimmering pond came into view. Its waters gleamed under the light, peaceful and inviting. He came to a halt, catching his breath and taking in the sight before him. The pond was teeming with life. Birds flitted between trees, small creatures moved in the tall grasses, and the water rippled as animals gathered to drink. Colm sat down on the grass, a sense of calm washing over him. For the first time in what felt like forever, he truly saw the world around him. Life was everywhere. Vibrant, diverse, and so unlike the death-filled void of the cursed forest. ¡°Wow¡­ this is really something,¡± he murmured, smiling softly. ¡°There¡¯s so much life here. It¡¯s such a stark contrast.¡± His hope brightened like the rays of sun warming his skin. This world isn¡¯t just death. That¡¯s a relief. As his eyes roamed, a nearby movement caught his attention¡ªa small, fox-like creature crouched by the water¡¯s edge. Its red fur shimmered with an almost ethereal glow. The sight was oddly comforting. ¡°That¡¯s just a fox,¡± he said, chuckling softly. ¡°Or, knowing this place, it¡¯s probably something ridiculous like a fire fox.¡± Curious, he activated Analyze. Chimefox (Level 20) Colm blinked in surprise. ¡°Huh. It is a fox, I wonder why it''s called a Chimefox? It¡¯s actually pretty high level.¡± He scratched his chin, thinking. ¡°That thing could probably wipe out a dozen undead without breaking a sweat. Levels here are weird, though. They feel arbitrary.¡± He sat back, watching as more creatures approached the pond over the next few hours. It was like a peaceful oasis, a truce among animals where all life came to drink. There were creatures both familiar and foreign, each stranger than the last. A Brackenthrorn, resembling a deer, stood at the edge of the water. With bark-like skin, and its twisted antlers looked more like roots than bone. Then there was a Duskcoon, larger than any raccoon he¡¯d ever seen, with glowing eyes and a menacing aura that set it apart from its Earthly counterpart. A pack of Windtails appeared next that looked eerily like coyotes, moving in coordinated bursts of speed, their movements fluid as if the wind itself propelled them forward. But the one that truly caught Colm¡¯s attention was a towering creature at the far end of the pond. It looked like a giraffe, but tufts of fluffy fur spiraled around its body, encircling it in a way that made it look like a cloud drifting through the plains. Colm gawked. ¡°No way. That thing is real. It¡¯s like a cloud giraffe.¡± Unable to resist, he activated Stealth and approached it. The creature¡ªa Cloudstrider, as Analyze later revealed¡ªwas lying down, its gentle presence radiating tranquility. Colm crouched low, inching closer until he could finally run a hand through its fur. His fingers sank into the impossibly soft fluff, a grin spreading across his face. ¡°This is the softest thing I¡¯ve ever touched,¡± he whispered in awe. The Cloudstrider didn¡¯t seem to mind his presence, content to bask in the moment. Colm¡¯s smile grew. ¡°I swear, if I can ever tame a beast, I¡¯m coming back for one of you.¡± He sat there for what felt like hours, petting the creature, his mind clear and at peace for the first time in what felt like an eternity. ¡°It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve touched something that didn¡¯t attack me,¡± he muttered, watching as the Cloudstrider slowly rose to its feet, ready to move on, and walked away. As it drifted away into the horizon, Colm felt an unexpected pang of sadness. He watched until it disappeared; the moment lingering like a warm memory. With a sigh, he stood and turned back to Carver. ¡°Alright, break¡¯s over. Carver¡ªhead north.¡± The phantom immediately turned to its left and began marching forward. Colm couldn¡¯t help but grin. That¡¯s still the most convenient thing ever. For another day, Colm kept up his pace, running tirelessly across the vast plains. His phantoms remained vigilant, dispatching the occasional undead that strayed into their path. The landscape was endless, the sun arching above him as he pushed forward, fueled by the hope of finding people¡ªanyone¡ªout here. Then, in the distance, something broke the horizon. A structure. Colm squinted, slowing his steps. As he ran closer, the blurry shapes took form. His heart leapt in his chest. ¡°Is that a town?¡± he whispered, eyes widening. He pushed forward, his pace quickening with every step. The outline of a massive stone wall became clear, surrounding the town like a fortress. Above it, rooftops and towering spires peaked into the sky. A gasp escaped his lips. ¡°Holy shit,¡± he muttered, his voice full of wonder. ¡°It¡¯s a city. A real city.¡± He broke into a full sprint, his phantoms keeping pace as his excitement boiled over. The wall loomed larger as he neared, and he could make out figures moving along its perimeter. Guards, maybe? Colm couldn¡¯t tell, but he didn¡¯t care. ¡°People!¡± he yelled, his voice echoing across the plains. He turned to his phantoms, a wide grin splitting his face. ¡°Holy shit, you guys¡ªwe found people!¡± He barreled toward the wall, skimming its perimeter until he found the gate. His heart pounded in his chest, adrenaline and disbelief coursing through him. Colm came to a stop, breathless, staring up at the towering structure with a wide, unrestrained grin plastered across his face. Chapter 39: The Town Colm approached the gate, his eyes locking onto the lone guard posted out front. A huge grin spread across his face, excitement bubbling over as he closed the distance. The first person I¡¯ve seen in months. The thought sent a jolt of nervous energy through him. It had been so long since he¡¯d spoken to anyone other than his phantoms, and he couldn¡¯t deny the mix of eagerness and unease knotting in his chest. As he moved closer, Colm cast Analyze, his curiosity getting the better of him. Joss (Level 70) - Human His eyebrows shot up in surprise. Level 70? For a guard? He¡¯d half expected to be stronger than most after everything he¡¯d endured. Maybe this is normal here, he mused, his mind racing. Does everyone go through ordeals like mine? Shoving the thought aside, Colm came to a stop in front of the guard. With a nervous yet friendly wave of his hand, he managed a simple, ¡°Hello.¡± * * * Joss stood at the gates, another dull shift stretching endlessly ahead of her. She hated guard duty¡ªnot because it was hard, but because it was mind-numbingly boring. Most days, the excitement mounted to adventurers heading off to nearby Echoes to train or merchants trickling in with goods. Rarely did anything noteworthy happen. Still, she didn¡¯t mind it all that much. The quiet gave her plenty of time to focus on her Meditation skill, and she was close to breaking it through to Tier 2. If she could just push it a little further, the boost to her regeneration would be well worth the monotony. Sighing as the hours crawled by, Joss absentmindedly scanned the horizon, her focus slipping. Then, something caught her eye¡ªmovement in the distance around the bend of the walls. At first, she squinted, unable to make out more than a dark blur against the flatlands. Whatever it was, it was moving fast. Straight toward the gates. ¡°Oi, heads up,¡± she called over her shoulder to another guard. ¡°Something¡¯s coming. Keep on alert.¡± Gripping the spear resting against her shoulder, Joss turned her full attention to the approaching figure, her instincts flaring as her mind raced through possibilities. Bandits? A rogue monster? She tensed, muscles coiled like a spring, her sharp eyes narrowing as the figure drew closer. It was humanoid, but something about it felt off. A chill crept up her spine as she noticed the spectral shapes trailing close behind¡ªthree ghostly forms, their ethereal presence radiating an unsettling, otherworldly aura. The way they moved, silent and unnatural, set her teeth on edge. What the hell am I looking at? she thought, gripping her weapon tighter as the tension thickened in the air. Narrowing her eyes, she activated Analyze¡ªa skill that had finally upgraded to Tier 2 last week. The improvement made her life ten times easier when identifying people or creatures from a distance, and she was more than a little smug about it. Colm Arden (Level 60; Spirit Warden) - Morvyn Phantom Warrior Phantom Spearman Phantom Archer Joss blinked. Her brow furrowed as her grip tightened reflexively on her spear. Only level 60? Spirit Warden? Phantoms? And a Morvyn? That¡¯s different. I''ve only ever read about them, she thought, her curiosity piqued, and at least glad it didn''t appear to see some rogue undead. The man¡¯s form grew clearer as he closed the distance. His gait was steady and quick, but his ashen-gray skin and the blue lines tracing across his body made him stand out like a ghost against the vibrant plains behind him. The phantom trailing him only added to the eerie presence that sent a shiver down her spine. What the actual fuck? Her pulse quickened, a chill creeping down her spine. She had heard the stories, read the books¡ªbut seeing one in real life¡­ A shudder ran through her as the weight of the moment settled over her, pressing against her chest. And those phantoms? They don¡¯t just creep me out¡­ they terrify me. Her gaze locked onto them as they moved. The man stepped forward, deliberate and controlled¡ªbut the phantoms¡­ they didn¡¯t just walk. Between each step, they seemed to glide, their movements carrying an unnatural fluidity, as if gravity itself had no hold on them. It wasn¡¯t right. It wasn¡¯t human. Her stomach twisted. They weren¡¯t just eerie¡ªthey were wrong. Shit, gotta pull it together. Forcing the swirling thoughts aside, she steadied herself, exhaling slowly as she resisted the urge to activate Gleam. Instead, she adjusted her posture, straightening her shoulders and slipping back into a composed, professional demeanor. As the man approached, she tried to push down the lingering terror, willing herself to see him for what he was¡ªrather than what fear painted him to be. He¡¯s not as bad as Gramps can be, she thought with a small, fleeting chuckle. * * * Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more. Colm stood before Joss for a few awkward seconds, feeling her gaze sweep over him. She looked tense, her body poised and ready to strike at a moment¡¯s notice. Just as he opened his mouth to speak again, she beat him to it. ¡°Hello, Colm. What brings you to Brimhope today?¡± Hearing his name spoken so softly caught him off guard. Her voice was calm, a welcome contrast to the endless groans of the undead that had plagued him for so long. For a moment, he simply stood there, letting the sound wash over him. Meanwhile, Joss continued to watch him cautiously, one hand held on her weapon. The city¡¯s name¡ªBrimhope¡ªstirred something in him. After enduring the horrors of Brimwhistle, he couldn¡¯t ignore the connection. They have to be related, he thought, his mind racing to piece together the possibilities. He shook himself out of his stupor, silently cursing his own awkwardness but forgiving himself quickly. Months of isolation, death traps, and near-constant fighting would do that to anyone, he reasoned. Clearing his throat, he finally spoke. ¡°Honestly¡­ it¡¯s a long story,¡± he said, letting out an awkward laugh. Joss didn¡¯t react, her expression unreadable, as if she were waiting for him to give her something more. Seeing he wasn¡¯t off the hook, Colm sighed and continued. ¡°The short version is I more or less just appeared in this world. I don¡¯t know how, or why, but I woke up surrounded by undead and found myself in ?an Echo where I could survive and thrive before eventually making my way back to that cursed forest.¡± He glanced briefly at her for any reaction, but her face remained impassive. ¡°After a lot of running, a few close calls, and some lucky breaks, I found my way here,¡± he finished, his tone light but edged with exhaustion. As Colm finished his explanation, he noticed the reason behind Joss''s guarded stance. His phantoms hovered nearby, their silent, spectral forms as imposing as ever. Realizing how unnerving they must appear, he let out a sigh and added, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s been months, I think, since I¡¯ve really talked to anyone.¡± He gestured to the ghostly figures surrounding him. ¡°You¡¯re the first person I¡¯ve seen since I arrived here. I know nothing about this world, and my phantoms¡ª¡± his hand swept toward them, ¡°¡ªwell, they¡¯ve been my only company since I got here. I guess I¡¯ve gotten so used to them I didn''t think of how they might look to someone else.¡± His voice softened at the end, a mix of exhaustion and relief betraying just how long he¡¯d been alone. After a few moments of silence, Colm stood patiently, waiting for Joss to process everything he¡¯d said. Finally, she spoke, her tone steady but not unkind. ¡°I see. That¡¯s quite the story,¡± she said, her eyes narrowing slightly, as if still weighing his words. ¡°I¡¯d be interested in hearing more of the details sometime, but for now, I can tell you¡¯re exhausted.¡± Her demeanor shifted slightly, more official as she continued, ¡°If what you say is true, there¡¯s a lot of information you¡¯ll need to unpack. For now, though, you may enter the city. Brimhope welcomes all who come to its gates¡ªwe believe this city is a haven for everyone.¡± She paused, leveling a serious look at him. ¡°That being said, we have rules. We strictly forbid the use of abilities within the city walls. We can¡¯t risk destructive behavior. Non-compliance will cause swift consequences: banishment at best, and death depending on the severity of the situation.¡± Colm blinked in surprise, taken aback by the city¡¯s openness. He had half-expected to be turned away outright, his claims dismissed as delusional ramblings. Letting out a breath he hadn¡¯t realized he was holding, he nodded. Communication and honesty, at least, helped him this time. Joss continued, shifting her weight slightly. ¡°You said you just arrived in this world and know nothing about it. I take it you don¡¯t have any money? Unless, of course, you stumbled across some on your way here.¡± Colm froze. Shit. I didn¡¯t even think about money. He scratched the back of his head awkwardly. ¡°No. I don¡¯t have any,¡± he admitted, mentally berating himself for the oversight. Joss chuckled softly, shaking her head. ¡°Just as I thought. On a personal recommendation, I think the Adventurer¡¯s Guild would be a good bet for you. They offer work¡ªcontracts and jobs suited to combat. Based on your level and what I can see of you, I don¡¯t think you¡¯ll have any problems handling the tasks they throw at you. It¡¯s a good way to earn enough for room, board, and anything else you might need. Even if you don¡¯t want to deal with the jobs there I¡¯d highly recommend checking it out at the very least. And if fighting isn¡¯t to your liking, though, you¡¯ll need to find something else.¡± Colm nodded, absorbing the information like a sponge. ¡°Thank you. I think I¡¯ll do just that. How do I find the Adventurer¡¯s Guild? And is there a good place to learn some things? Like a library or something?¡± Joss pointed past the gates. ¡°The guild has a library that might suit your needs. Once you¡¯re through, follow the main street. It¡¯ll take you to the central plaza¡ªyou can¡¯t miss it. There¡¯s a fountain right in the middle, and the Adventurer¡¯s Guild is a large building with a red roof. It stands out.¡± She paused, her gaze flicking to his spectral allies. ¡°Dismiss your phantoms, and I¡¯ll let you through.¡± ¡°Right,¡± Colm muttered, dismissing his phantoms with a thought. Their spectral forms shimmered before vanishing, leaving only empty space where they once stood. He watched them fade, a flicker of melancholy settling in¡ªhe had grown so used to their presence that their absence left him feeling exposed, almost naked. Even knowing it was only temporary, the emptiness around him felt unnatural, a stark contrast to the constant, spectral company he had come to rely on. Satisfied, Joss stepped aside as the heavy gates groaned open, granting Colm his first glimpse of the bustling city beyond. His eyes widened as he watched countless people maneuver their way through crowded stalls lining the streets. The air buzzed with the sounds of merchants bargaining, goods being sold, and the lively chatter of the townsfolk. It was incredible¡ªso full of life, a stark contrast to the silence and despair he¡¯d grown accustomed to. Colm took a deep breath, savoring the moment, and stepped forward to join the flow of the city. Just as he began walking through, Joss¡¯s voice rang out behind him, pulling him back. ¡°One more thing!¡± He turned to see her smirking faintly. ¡°When you get to the Adventurer¡¯s Guild, ask for Jerry. He¡¯s the local historian there, employed by the guild. He knows this place inside and out¡ªhe might help you get your bearings.¡± Colm gave her a grateful nod. ¡°Thanks for everything, Joss.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. Welcome to Brimhope,¡± she said, her tone lighter now. With a final glance back, Colm stepped into the city, feeling both cautious and hopeful for what lay ahead. * * * Joss watched as Colm disappeared into the city, a quiet chuckle escaping her lips. ¡°I think he¡¯s going to cause quite a stir,¡± she muttered to herself, her gaze lingering on the crowds that swallowed him up catching glimpses of an occasional gasp at his appearance. Yeah we don¡¯t see many Morvyn around here. Her mind drifted to her Truthseeker passive¡ªboth a blessing and a curse. It had never failed her, always revealing when someone spoke a lie. But everything that man said¡­ he believed it to be true. If even half of what he claimed actually happened, he¡¯s going to make quite the mark on this town. Yet it wasn¡¯t just his words that lingered in her thoughts¡ªit was that class and that race. Joss frowned, crossing her arms as she mulled it over. I haven¡¯t seen or heard of any class that summons phantoms like that before. And the power radiating off him¡­ She could still feel the faint echo of it, a mix of curiosity and unease gnawing at her. Whatever tier his class is, I don¡¯t think I¡¯d stand a chance in a one-on-one fight with him. Her thoughts shifted to the phantoms she¡¯d glimpsed by his side. Those alone¡­ they felt like an imposing force. Honestly, the phantoms alone felt stronger than some adventurers I¡¯ve seen in this city. She exhaled sharply; her gaze lingering on the now-closed gates. That man is strong. Dangerously strong. She shook her head, glancing back at the now-closed gates, Colm¡¯s presence still lingering in her mind. Brimhope¡¯s quiet days might just be over. She sighed softly, her thoughts turning to Jerry. Hopefully, he¡¯ll be able to get him sorted. With that final thought fading, Joss turned her focus back to the horizon, stretching endlessly before her. Letting the sounds of the bustling gates drift away, she settled into her stance, closed her eyes, and focused once more on her Meditation skill, letting the world around her blur into calm. Chapter 40: Wandering the Streets As Colm followed the main road, he couldn¡¯t help but feel a rare sense of happiness. People walked past, chatting casually, their voices blending into a lively hum. Occasionally, he¡¯d hear a gasp or catch someone eyeing him¡ªno doubt because of his appearance. Maybe it¡¯s my ratty clothes, he chuckled to himself. Who am I kidding? It¡¯s probably the whole partial undead look I¡¯ve got going on. He mumbled as he glanced down at his hands. The city was such a stark contrast to the endless groans of the undead he¡¯d grown used to. The chatter was warm, inviting¡ªa sound of life. At first, it was overwhelming. The sheer number of people, the noise, the bustle¡ªit overloaded his senses, a sharp reminder of how long he¡¯d spent in isolation. He leaned against a wall, steadying his breath, letting the moment wash over him. It was a lot to take in, but after a few deep breaths, he shook it off and pushed forward. His goal was simple¡ªreach the adventurers¡¯ guild and ask for someone named Jerry¡ªbut he quickly got sidetracked. Food stalls lined the streets, filling the air with mouthwatering scents. Sweet, savory, and unfamiliar aromas drifted toward him, and Colm licked his lips unconsciously. The meals on display looked delicious¡ªthough he did not know what half of them were¡ªand after months of surviving on nothing but Celestial Blooms, anything else sounded heavenly. Out of habit, he patted his pockets, searching for his wallet before chuckling to himself. Haven¡¯t had one of those in months. Refocusing on his goal, Colm muttered to himself, Adventure guild. Ask about Jerry. That¡¯s the plan. He set off with renewed determination¡ªonly to stop dead once more. A group of people clad in gleaming armor passed him by. Colm¡¯s eyes widened as he took them in, quickly activating Analyze out of habit. They were all around his level, Level 60, but what truly caught his attention was their appearance. They weren¡¯t all human. Among them were elves, their elegant features and pointed ears unmistakable, and sturdy, broad-shouldered dwarves, their beards as impressive as the heavy weapons they carried. ¡°Holy shit,¡± Colm whispered in awe, unable to look away as they strode past him with confidence. Still reeling from the awe of seeing a pack of battle-hardened adventurers, Colm¡¯s mind drifted. He couldn¡¯t help but picture himself clad in gleaming ornate armor, standing tall as sunlight glinted off his gear. But the thought was fleeting, as he quickly shook his head. I don¡¯t need fancy. I¡¯d rather have something practical¡ªsomething that keeps me safe but lets me move freely. I never want to end up when heavy armor slows me down and gets me overwhelmed. Lost in his musings, Colm continued walking forward, barely paying attention to where he was going until¡ªthud. He bumped into someone, jolting him out of his reverie. ¡°Hey, watch where you¡¯re going!¡± came a sharp, irritated voice. Colm blinked, startled, and spun to face the man. He was tall and imposing, clad in black leather armor with a sword strapped to his right hip. The man¡¯s gaze bore down on him, eyes blazing with barely contained anger. The sudden tension sent a jolt through Colm, and without thinking, he reflexively activated Analyze. Peter (Level 64) - Human In his mind, Colm noted that the man didn¡¯t seem too threatening, but he reminded himself, Levels mean little¡ªat least not in my opinion. I¡¯ll need to figure out just how important they really are. As his train of thought ended, Colm noticed the lingering, awkward tension between them. It felt so thick he was sure a knife could slice through it. Not wanting to cause a scene¡ªespecially when he¡¯d just entered the city¡ªhe scrambled to find his words, raising a hand in apology. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡ªI was distracted,¡± he blurted. Peter, a broad-shouldered man with an irritated scowl, shot him a huff before turning away. ¡°Watch where you¡¯re going next time,¡± he grumbled under his breath. ¡°You¡¯re lucky I¡¯m in a good mood.¡± Colm let out a quiet sigh as Peter disappeared into the crowd. Great first impression, he thought sarcastically, shaking his head as he refocused and kept moving. Refusing to let the encounter sour his mood, Colm returned to the road, a small grin tugging at the corners of his lips. The city was too incredible to let one run-in ruin it, and he was determined to take it all in. After a few minutes of walking, the street widened, opening up into a bustling plaza teeming with life. At the center stood an ornate fountain, the water shimmering in the sunlight. The energy here was different. The people milling about were clearly fighters¡ªadventurers. They carried weapons of all kinds: swords, spears, bows, and even stranger implements Colm couldn¡¯t name. Humans, dwarves, elves¡ªall armored in plate, leather, or chainmail¡ªfilled the plaza, their presence exuding confidence and readiness. Colm glanced down at himself, noting the sorry state of his tattered clothes. His brow furrowed. How are these even holding together? He rubbed at his arm absentmindedly. And no one¡¯s called me out for this yet. Do I smell? I haven¡¯t bathed in months. He stopped himself, shrugging. Maybe they¡¯re used to it. He turned his attention to the buildings surrounding the plaza. One stood out: a massive structure that looked more like a mansion than anything else. Two towers flanked its entrance, each with figures standing at watch. Ornate flags hung proudly along its perimeter, their vibrant colors rippling in the breeze. Colm¡¯s eyes traveled up to the building¡¯s grand red roof, and a smile crept onto his face. A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. ¡°That¡¯s got to be it,¡± he muttered to himself, confidence rising. As he stared at the incredible building in front of him. The adventurers¡¯ guild. Visions of himself fighting monsters, saving towns, and maybe even finding love swarmed his mind as he considered the possibilities. Do I really want this? he thought, uncertainty creeping in. Is this the life I want to lead? Colm smirked at his own thoughts. Based on my extensive game knowledge, he mused, places like this are always dangerous. High risk. High chance of death. Is the chaotic, unpredictable life of an adventurer really what I want? The images in his head shifted, growing more vivid than usual. He saw himself back at his desk on Earth¡ªchains locked around his leg, binding him to that dull, suffocating existence. The weight of it felt all too real. I don¡¯t want that for myself anymore; he thought with finality. I want to live. If it¡¯s cut short, so be it. As long as I can be happy with my choices, I will have no regrets. With a steadying breath, Colm lifted his chin, squared his shoulders, and moved forward. His stride was purposeful as he headed straight for the imposing building ahead.
Colm walked through the courtyard, passing adventurers as they exited the building. He glanced up, finally taking in the impressive structure up close before stepping through the heavy doors. The interior was everything he had ever imagined from his countless years of playing games growing up. A massive central reception area stretched before him, bustling with activity. Clerks stood behind counters lined with adventurers, some clad in gleaming armor, others holding bows, and a few gripping intricately carved staves. Colm stared in awe at the sheer variety of people. Humans, dwarves, elves, gnomes, and even dragon-like beings moved about the room, their presence vibrant and overwhelming. This is the world I¡¯m in now, he thought, his heart pounding with excitement. Off to the side, he spotted a section resembling a tavern or a small restaurant. The scent of a rich stew wafted through the air, making his mouth water as his gaze lingered on adventurers hunched over steaming bowls. At the far end of the hall, a wall covered in notices caught his eye. A crowd had gathered in front of it, adventurers scanning through various requests pinned to the board. Curiosity getting the better of him, Colm made his way to the notice board. As he sifted through the postings, he realized they were as varied as the people themselves¡ªmonster-slaying contracts, training requests, escort missions, and even odd jobs like repairing fences and cleaning out sewers. How do I even decide where to start? He thought, scratching his head. Feeling slightly overwhelmed, Colm turned his attention back to the central reception counters. Deciding it was best to ask for guidance and for Jerry, he joined one of the long lines that steadily inched forward. The wait gave him time to take everything in¡ªthe sounds of clinking armor, idle chatter, and the occasional bark of laughter from across the room. After several minutes, Colm finally reached the front. A clerk waved him forward with a friendly shout, "Next!" Stepping up to the counter, Colm found himself face-to-face with a man offering a warm smile. "Hello, Colm. How can I help you today?" Momentarily startled¡ªstill unaccustomed to people knowing his name without him saying it¡ªColm instinctively activated Analyze on the man. Leon (Level 45) - Human Colm studied the result, his mind lingering on how varied the levels were among the people he''d Analyzed so far. Some were close to his own, but a few had shown question marks¡ªan unsettling discovery that had made his heart skip a beat during his trek. He quickly refocused on the receptionist, Leon, standing in front of him. ¡°Hi, Leon,¡± Colm began, clearing his throat. ¡°I have kind of a long story, but I spoke with Joss at the gates. She mentioned someone named Jerry who works for the guild and might help me out? Would you be able to point me in his direction?¡± Leon responded with an easy nod and a friendly smile. ¡°Sure thing. Jerry doesn¡¯t really have a set schedule, but you can usually find him in the guild library. It¡¯s just down that hallway¡ªfourth door on the right. You can¡¯t miss it.¡± As he spoke, Leon glanced briefly at a sleek watch on his wrist. Colm blinked in surprise at the sight, thrown off by the unexpected mix of modern and fantastical elements in this world. Before he could dwell on it, Leon continued. ¡°It¡¯s still early, so he should be there right now,¡± Leon said, looking back up. ¡°He¡¯s usually buried in whatever he¡¯s working on, so just tell him Joss sent you. Otherwise, he might be too stubborn to stop and hear you out.¡± ¡°Got it. Thanks for the help,¡± Colm replied with a grateful nod. Leon waved him off, already turning back to the next person in line. ¡°Next!¡± Colm glanced toward the hallway Leon had pointed out, his steps quickening with purpose. He weaved through the bustling reception area, the sounds of chatter and clinking armor fading behind him as he approached the quieter corridor. Colm found the door Leon had mentioned and hesitated for a moment, his hand resting on the handle. ¡°I¡¯m not sure how big this library could really be,¡± he muttered to himself. ¡°I was kind of imagining one of those sprawling libraries that stretch end to end with endless bookshelves.¡± He chuckled softly, shaking his head at the thought, and pushed the door open. The moment he stepped inside, Colm froze, his jaw dropping. The library was enormous. Absolutely massive. He blinked, doing a double take as he took in the sheer scale of the room. Towering shelves stretched toward the ceiling, crammed with books, scrolls, and tomes. Row after row of shelves extended so far into the distance that the far end of the room seemed to blur slightly. It was a stark contrast to the unassuming door that led him here. ¡°This shouldn¡¯t even be possible,¡± he murmured in awe, craning his neck to look around. The space was impossibly vast¡ªfar larger than the building should allow. Pushing down his amazement, Colm steadied himself and began wandering the library, his footsteps the only sound breaking the eerie stillness. It was a stark difference from the bustling and chaotic reception area he¡¯d just left behind. The silence seemed almost sacred here, and Colm instinctively kept his voice and movements quiet. He moved between the towering bookshelves, taking a few moments to Analyze some individuals he passed¡ªscribes, scholars, and adventurers, all absorbed in their reading. No luck so far, he thought, scanning each unfamiliar face for any hint of white hair or round glasses. Ten minutes passed as Colm continued his search, still baffled by the size of the library. ¡°How far does this place even go?¡± he muttered under his breath, feeling a small twinge of frustration. Just as he was about to give up and retrace his steps, a soft glow caught his eye¡ªa faint light spilling from a small alcove tucked between the shelves. Curious, Colm made his way toward the light, his footsteps muffled by the thick carpet beneath him. As he entered the alcove, the glow grew brighter, revealing the quiet space within. At the source of the light, hunched over a table cluttered with scrolls and open books, sat an older man. The faint glow came from a small enchanted lantern beside him, illuminating his wrinkled features and wisps of white hair. Colm¡¯s heart skipped a beat. This has to be him. Without hesitating, he used Analyze. Jerry (Level ???) - Human Chapter 41: Jerry Holy shit, Colm thought, his heart pounding. This is the first person I¡¯ve seen, other than the Will of the Grove, with a level in the triple digits. A cold sweat formed on his brow as the sheer pressure of strength emanating from the man pressed down on him. What the hell did I just get myself into? Before Colm could gather his thoughts, the man shifted in his seat with a loud huff and snapped irritably, ¡°What do you want? I¡¯m busy here.¡± Colm¡¯s voice caught in his throat, the weight of Jerry¡¯s voice making him stumble over his words. ¡°A guard named Joss told me to find you. She said you might be able to help me.¡± Jerry grumbled as he slammed shut the thick book he¡¯d been reading, turning to face Colm fully for the first time. His sharp eyes scanned Colm up and down with obvious skepticism, but something in his gaze softened as he took a second look. ¡°Joss sent you, huh? Damn that girl. She knows I¡¯ve had enough of people wasting my time. This better be good.¡± He paused, his brow furrowing slightly as his gaze lingered. ¡°At least you seem to have an interesting race and class, so that¡¯s something.¡± He gestured at a nearby chair. ¡°Fine. Grab a seat and start talking. You¡¯d better make it worth my time.¡± Colm swallowed hard and quickly slid into the chair, his hands gripping the edge as he tried to steady himself. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m not sure where to begin. It¡¯s been a wild ride,¡± he admitted with a nervous shrug. ¡°I guess I¡¯ll start from the beginning.¡± Jerry arched an eyebrow, clearly waiting for more, so Colm dove in, trying to keep his voice steady as he recounted his story. ¡°I¡¯ve lost track of how long it¡¯s been¡ªprobably a a handful of months now¡ªbut one day, I just ended up here. Something pulled me from my world and dropped me into an undead-infested forest. I don¡¯t even know how I survived. There was this Echo¡ªsomething sentient¡ªthat opened its doorway for me. If it hadn¡¯t, I¡¯d be dead right now.¡± Jerry¡¯s expression remained unreadable, but Colm pressed on, feeling the need to explain everything. ¡°Because of how I arrived, the system said something about giving me a ¡®unique opportunity,¡¯ bypassing the standard process and giving me a chance. With it, I cleared the Echo, survived the forest, albeit barely as I ran into a powerful undead that almost killed me. I somehow survived that as I found made my way here.¡± He exhaled, his shoulders slumping slightly. ¡°That¡¯s pretty much it in a nutshell. I do not know why I¡¯m here, or what I¡¯m even supposed to do. But right now, you¡¯re the only lead I¡¯ve got.¡± * * * Jerry sat there silently, his sharp eyes fixed on Colm as he listened intently. His scrutiny never faltered, studying every word, every gesture, as if analyzing Colm¡¯s very soul. But something shifted as the story unfolded¡ªhis cold, dismissive demeanor slowly thawed. This wasn¡¯t another fool looking to waste his time hunting slimes or asking stupid questions about magic herbs. Interesting, Jerry thought, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. The system gave him an opportunity to survive.That sounds just like how it was at the beginning. His eyes narrowed slightly, his curiosity piqued. And that race¡­ His gaze lingered on Colm for a moment longer. It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve seen a Morvyn. The silence stretched between them for a moment as Jerry processed the information. Finally, he leaned back in his chair, his stern features softening just a fraction. ¡°Well,¡± he said, breaking the silence with a gruff tone, ¡°you certainly weren¡¯t lying about it being a wild story.¡± * * * Colm sat there, waiting anxiously for Jerry to say something¡ªanything¡ªas the silence stretched between them. When Jerry finally responded, Colm let out a breath he hadn¡¯t even realized he was holding. It seemed like the older man believed him, which was a relief. Encouraged, Colm pressed on. ¡°I really am lost here. Joss made me painfully aware of how broke I am. I have been stumbling my way through with no direction in mind so I need to get my head sorted and figure things out. I understand how little I know, and how unprepared I am for¡­ well, everything in this world. I could really use your help.¡± Jerry snorted, a deep laugh rumbling from his chest. ¡°I¡¯ll say. You¡¯re a right mess. You are.¡± He stood up with surprising speed for someone his age, motioning for Colm to follow. ¡°Come on. Let¡¯s help get you sorted. Fair warning, this is going to take a bit. I¡¯m about to drop a lot of information on you, so I hope you¡¯re good at paying attention.¡± Colm scrambled to his feet and hurried after Jerry, watching as the older man weaved expertly between the towering shelves of the library. Jerry¡¯s voice carried back to him as they walked. ¡°We¡¯re going to grab a few books¡ªbare essentials to get you started. Basics about the world, the system, classes, races, and how it all fits together. Just know this: the system is still new to us. I don¡¯t have all the answers, but I can tell you what we¡¯ve figured out so far.¡± Colm¡¯s eyes widened in surprise, his pace faltering for a moment. ¡°Wait, what? The system is still new? How new are we talking? And¡­ how did it even happen?¡± Jerry glanced back at Colm, then burst into laughter, a hand wiping at the corner of his eye. ¡°Oh, gods. It¡¯s been so long since I¡¯ve seen someone so green¡ªreminds me of myself when the system first appeared. Sorry, kid, I don¡¯t mean to laugh at you.¡± He coughed, regaining his composure, and kept moving through the shelves. They stopped at a section of the library Colm hadn¡¯t seen yet. Jerry began pulling books from the shelves, muttering to himself as he skimmed the titles. ¡°Intro to Classes, Intro to the System, Intro to the Echoed Lands¡­ Yep, this¡¯ll do for now.¡± With a small stack of books under his arm, Jerry nodded for Colm to follow him again, this time leading them toward a quiet study room tucked into the back of the library. Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. ¡°Make yourself comfortable,¡± Jerry said, placing the books on a sturdy table. ¡°We¡¯re going to be here a while. I¡¯m going to give you a crash course in everything you need to know about this world.¡± Colm settled into a chair as Jerry leaned against the table. While skimming through the books, he grabbed. ¡°First things first, let me introduce myself properly. My name¡¯s Jerry Lorn. I was an adventurer once¡ªlong ago¡ªand I was here when the system first came to this world. I know exactly how shocking all this feels because I lived it, just on a much bigger scale nearly two and a half centuries ago. Nowadays I¡¯ve grown tired of fighting monsters. I¡¯ve made enough money in my time to do whatever the hell I want. These days I work with the guild to help spread information and knowledge to the other isles.¡± Colm blinked. Two and a half centuries? Jerry continued, his voice steady but tinged with old sorrow. ¡°We don¡¯t know exactly how the system arrived, but we have theories with unfortunately no concrete evidence to back them up.¡± He paused, as if deciding where to begin. ¡°The most prominent theory is this: before the shift, one of the leading companies of world at the time was researching something forbidden. Illegal. The rumors say they were messing with life and death¡ªtrying to bring someone back.¡± Colm leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. ¡°We think they succeeded. But in doing so, they introduced something new into the world: mana and with it the system. That single act triggered the collapse of our society, killing billions, causing the undead plague, threw us back into the Stone Age, terraforming the land, and transforming it into what we now call the Echoed Lands.¡± Jerry¡¯s gaze dropped for a moment, and his voice softened. ¡°The arrival of the system destroyed everything I knew. I lost a lot of good friends and family.¡± The weight of those words hung heavy in the air. Colm sat quietly, letting Jerry gather himself before he continued. ¡°That was 239 years ago,¡± Jerry said, his voice growing steadier. ¡°Since then, the system has allowed for incredible things. I, for one, age incredibly slowly. My stats and class alone is strong enough to keep me going. That¡¯s something I know you share¡ªit¡¯s very similar to one of the Morvyn traits.¡± Colm froze, his brows furrowing. ¡°Wait, how do you know that I¡¯m a Morvyn? And how do you know what traits it has? And you mentioned I had an interesting class. How do you know that?¡± Jerry chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°Kid, I¡¯ve been around a long time. I¡¯ve seen it all¡ªalmost. I hate to break it to you but you¡¯re not special. I¡¯ve met a handful of Morvyn over the years. Some were good folk; others, not so much. But I recognized it from you right away, Analyze helps too. Although your class might be rare as I can¡¯t say that I¡¯ve heard of Spirit Warden before. People at least know of your race. I have yet to encounter someone from another world and if Joss believed you, it must have truth to it.¡± Colm processed that for a moment, his mind reeling at the sheer scope of what Jerry had seen and lived through. Over two centuries of experience¡­ He could only imagine the things this man knew. With that, Jerry motioned to the stack of books on the table. ¡°We¡¯ll start here. You¡¯re going to need this knowledge if you want to survive, let alone thrive. Now let¡¯s crack one open, because class is officially in session.¡±
"We¡¯re going to start with the system¡ªwhat it is, what it means for you, and how it shapes this world," Jerry began, his tone firm and deliberate. "After that, we¡¯ll move on to the class system and then discuss the broader state of the world itself." He paused, folding his arms as his sharp gaze settled on Colm. "First, let¡¯s be clear: we don¡¯t know much. We don¡¯t know what the system really is but I have my own opinions. The system is an incredible tool. It ?changed our world on a level no one could have imagined. It allows us to reach levels of strength that defy belief¡ªsome even say it lets people ascend to powers akin to gods. We believe a handful of individuals have achieved that level of strength, making us think it is possible. But here¡¯s the catch: the system isn¡¯t everything." Jerry leaned forward, his voice lowering as though imparting a grave truth. "It¡¯s just a tool. Like any tool, it can help you grow, but it won¡¯t solve all your problems. It doesn¡¯t provide every answer. And if you rely on it blindly, it will fail you." He began pacing slowly, his frustration palpable. "The system gave us structure¡ªa way to define an individual¡¯s abilities at a glance with levels, stats, and classes. It¡¯s a tidy package of numbers that looks like it explains everything. But those numbers¡­" Jerry growled, his eyes narrowing. "They¡¯re not everything. That so-called structure has misled countless people to their deaths¡ªespecially in the early days." Jerry stopped, pivoting to Colm. "I¡¯d bet good money you¡¯ve already started figuring this out. Levels? They don¡¯t mean shit." His words struck like hammer blows, the weight behind them unmistakable. "What really matters are your stats, your class, your race, and, most importantly, your ingenuity." Jerry¡¯s voice rose, his frustration bubbling to the surface. "Take your case, for example. Based on what you¡¯ve told me, you have had a unique opportunity¡ªa rare class that probably puts you at tier 4 or 5 class. That means you¡¯ve earned around 300 attribute points by now based on your level. That¡¯s where your real power lies¡ªthose attribute points." He jabbed a finger for emphasis, his tone biting. "Now let me paint you a picture. Let¡¯s say you¡¯ve got a tier 2 class, which gives +2 attribute points per level. If you¡¯re level 20, you¡¯ve got about 40 points. You¡¯re feeling confident, right? Then you stumble across a level 15 creature. Easy fight? WRONG!" Jerry slammed his hand onto the table, the thud echoing through the room. "What if that creature has a tier 4 designation? That means it¡¯s earning +4 attribute points per level. By level 15, it¡¯s sitting at 60 points. That¡¯s a 20-point advantage over you¡ªdespite being five levels lower. Levels don¡¯t tell the full story." His voice crackled with authority, the frustration of hard-earned lessons seeping through every word. "It¡¯s the tier of your class¡ªand by extension, the stats you earn¡ªthat determine the real balance of power. A higher class tier means you can punch far above your weight. You can take on opponents that, by level alone, you have no business defeating. But the same is true for monsters. If you underestimate a lower-level creature because you¡¯re too focused on its number, you¡¯ll end up dead. Plain and simple. And the system does jack shit for explaining this." Jerry straightened, his voice steadying, though the intensity remained. "Remember this: the system gives you tools, but you¡¯re the one who wields them. Stats, class tier, ingenuity¡ªthose are what decide whether you live or die. Levels? They¡¯re just a number. Don¡¯t let them blind you." Colm sat quietly, absorbing every word. Jerry¡¯s warning was clear, and it rang true. His encounters in the cursed forest and the battles he¡¯d survived had already shown him glimpses of this reality. This world was not forgiving, and ignorance could be fatal. Jerry let out a long breath, his sharp gaze softening just slightly. "You¡¯re lucky, kid. You¡¯ve got power¡ªand potential. Don¡¯t waste it by falling into the same trap so many others have." Chapter 42: Class is in Session As Colm absorbed the weight of the information Jerry had laid out, his thoughts shifted to his class. He leaned forward and asked, ¡°You said my Spirit Warden class is Tier 4 or 5. What exactly are the tiers of classes, and how rare are the higher ones?¡± Jerry, sitting across from him, gave a small nod, as if he¡¯d been expecting the question. ¡°You got very lucky, kid. First off, let¡¯s clear something up¡ªthe system doesn¡¯t officially designate class tiers. That¡¯s something we came up with based on the attribute points a class provides and it lines up nicely with the tier nomenclature the system already has in place. The math¡¯s pretty simple: if a class gives +4 attribute points per level, it¡¯s Tier 4. If it gives +5, it¡¯s Tier 5, and so on.¡± Jerry paused, his gaze steady. ¡°High tier classes like yours? They¡¯re rare¡ªdamn rare. It¡¯s been years since I¡¯ve come across someone new with one of those. If you have what I think you do you¡¯re walking proof of an extraordinary opportunity, kid. Don¡¯t waste it.¡± Colm blinked as the weight of Jerry¡¯s words sank in. A Tier 5 class. The rarity of it hit him like a punch to the gut. He rubbed the back of his neck, processing it all, before asking, ¡°What about beyond that? Is Tier 5 the peak? Are there any higher classes?¡± Jerry¡¯s lips curled into a faint, knowing smile. ¡°I¡¯ve yet to confirm if anyone I¡¯ve met has a class higher than Tier 5, but that doesn¡¯t mean they don¡¯t exist. If they do, though, they¡¯re going to be so rare that most of us would never see one. The system is full of mysteries we still don¡¯t understand, and there¡¯s always a possibility for something greater out there.¡± Colm¡¯s mind buzzed with the possibilities, the sheer luck of having landed something so powerful. He was about to ask another question when Jerry continued, letting the words hang with deliberate weight. ¡°That said, don¡¯t get too cocky. The system wasn¡¯t always this stingy with its offerings. When it first appeared, it was a hell of a lot more generous and a lot of the power houses today are from when it first came about. My theory is that because the system was new, it wanted to give people a fighting chance. So it handed out higher-tier classes more frequently back then. These days? Not so much. You have to earn it, that is if you can.¡± ¡°That makes sense, I guess,¡± Colm replied, his voice thoughtful. ¡°So what are the standard tiers of classes now?¡± Jerry¡¯s mouth twitched into a smirk. ¡°You¡¯re catching on quick, kid. Nowadays, most people hover around Tier 2, maybe Tier 3, if they¡¯re lucky. It¡¯s just the way things have settled. If you want to dig into it more, we¡¯ve got a book in the guild library¡ªan encyclopedia of known classes and their tiers. I¡¯d highly recommend giving it a read. It¡¯ll help you get a sense of what¡¯s out there.¡± Jerry leaned back in his chair, the faint flicker of pride in his expression as Colm kept asking questions. ¡°Once you get your Analyze skill to Tier 2, you¡¯ll be able to see other people¡¯s classes, too. It¡¯s an invaluable tool, especially if you need to gauge a threat quickly when you¡¯re in a bind. Colm filed that tidbit away, then asked the next question on his mind. ¡°So what tier is your class?¡± At that, Jerry¡¯s expression hardened, his tone growing firm. ¡°I rarely tell anyone that, kid. It¡¯s better to keep that information to yourself. The element of surprise can mean the difference between life and death. And me? I¡¯ve got a little something that helps obscure Analyze results on me. Makes it so no one can snoop around easily.¡± Colm¡¯s eyebrows rose in surprise, but Jerry wasn¡¯t done. ¡°Listen up¡ªtake my advice on this. Not everyone has Analyze at Tier 2, as it''s a damn pain to level, so you¡¯ll be able to keep your class hidden from most people. Still, it¡¯s not a bad idea to invest in some protection. If you can find an Enchanter, they can craft you a talisman or something similar to hide your class. But let me warn you¡ªthey don¡¯t come cheap.¡± Colm nodded slowly, processing everything Jerry had said. The system wasn¡¯t as straightforward as it seemed, and the value of keeping secrets was something he hadn¡¯t even considered. But now, it was clear: in a world like this, knowledge¡ªand the ability to keep it hidden¡ªwas power. ¡°How do you level Analyze?¡± Colm asked, his curiosity piqued. ¡°Trial and effort, kid,¡± Jerry responded with a shrug. ¡°It¡¯s a slow skill to level, but it¡¯s worth it. Knowledge is power, remember that. Just keep using it on everything you come across, and it¡¯ll steadily level up. It has a few nuances, though.¡± Jerry¡¯s expression grew serious as he leaned back in his chair. ¡°At Tier 1, it shows you basic information¡ªthe name and, depending on what you¡¯re looking at, the level. If their level is too high compared to yours, all you¡¯ll see is question marks. But as you level it up, you can analyze higher-level targets. At Tier 2, things get interesting, as it gives more information. It also lets you see up to 10 levels above you plus 10% of your own level. So, for example, if you¡¯re level 100, you could analyze creatures up to level 120.¡± Colm nodded slowly, absorbing the explanation. Jerry wasn¡¯t done. He explained how skills worked¡ªgeneric abilities available to anyone, provided they were willing to put in the effort to train them. It makes sense, Colm thought, glancing at his own skills. You just have to use them repeatedly, over and over, until they improve. Next on the agenda were stats. While it sounded familiar¡ªmirroring the vague description the system had shown him when he first arrived¡ªJerry¡¯s words hammered home their importance with a blunt clarity that Colm couldn¡¯t ignore. ¡°You can only do so much if someone¡¯s stats outclass yours,¡± Jerry said, his tone sharp, almost scolding. ¡°If you have 30 strength and someone else has 60, they¡¯re twice as strong as you. They¡¯ll overpower you without breaking a sweat. Balance is key. I¡¯ve seen it too many times¡ªmages who dump everything into intelligence since that¡¯s their primary stat only to get smashed to a pulp because their dexterity was too low to react. You¡¯ll find creatures like that too¡ªones that specialize in just one or two stats. Those bastards can be terrifying depending on the spread or as weak as can be. It¡¯s all about balance kid.¡± Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Jerry paused, letting his words hang for emphasis before continuing. ¡°Maybe they focus entirely on speed and become blurs of death. Maybe it¡¯s strength, and every hit they land is devastating. But here¡¯s the thing¡ªspecialization comes with flaws. A creature that¡¯s all speed might not hit hard. One that¡¯s all strength might not land a hit. And those weaknesses? Those are your opportunities.¡± As Jerry spoke, Colm¡¯s mind drifted back to the Grove Stalker. That creature had been devastatingly fast and brutally strong, but it lacked versatility¡ªno magic, no poisons, nothing beyond sheer physicality. It had been terrifying, sure, but Colm had survived by exploiting its short range and finding the crevice where it couldn¡¯t reach. Jerry¡¯s words rang true. ¡°That brings me to the most important thing of all: ingenuity.¡± Jerry¡¯s voice dropped, becoming both calmer and more intense. ¡°You can have the strongest class in the world. You might be talented. But none of that matters if you don''t know how to use your resources. Be creative. Think outside the box. Don¡¯t take the system at face value. It will not spoon-feed you success. The system gives you just enough to survive, but it rewards creativity.¡± Colm sat there, letting the words sink in, their weight settling heavily on his shoulders. The thought gnawed at him: The system is a tool. It¡¯s up to me to make the most of it. Jerry leaned forward, his voice firm and measured. ¡°In this world, it¡¯s not just the highest stats, most optimized build or strongest abilities that determine success¡ªthough without them, you won¡¯t get far. What really matters is adaptability. The ones who thrive are those who can think on their feet, who can outsmart the challenges they face. Remember that, kid. It¡¯ll keep you alive.¡± Jerry let out a long breath, his gaze steady as he spoke. ¡°That¡¯s the basics on classes, kid,¡± he said, raising a hand to silence Colm before he could speak. ¡°Before you ask questions, there¡¯s a bit more I need to cover.¡± He leaned back in his chair, his tone calm but firm. ¡°We¡¯ve focused on class tiers and their capabilities, but fighting isn¡¯t all there is to classes. There are entire classes dedicated to crafting¡ªbuilding incredible tools, weapons, armor¡ªanything you can think of and they all have their own unique leveling system not based on combat. Now, imagine combining the weapons of a top-tier crafter with the skills of a top-tier fighter. Together, they¡¯re an unstoppable force.¡± Jerry gestured out toward the window as if pointing to the city beyond. ¡°In Brimhope, we have a wide variety of shops filled with crafters. If you¡¯re planning to fight¡ªand judging by you being here at the Adventurer¡¯s Guild and class name, I assume you are¡ªfind a crafter you can trust. Your life will depend on the gear you wear.¡± Pausing for emphasis, Jerry leaned forward, his eyes serious. ¡°Now, this next part is something that will shape your path¡ªyour journey in this world. By the time I finish explaining, you¡¯ll get a system notification. It took us decades to figure this out.¡± He ran a hand through his hair, letting out a small huff. ¡°Classes are just one side of the coin. They¡¯re a resource to help you grow stronger, granting you active and passive abilities. Those abilities can tier up with use, sure, but they don¡¯t evolve beyond their initial design, that is unless you tier up your class.¡± He held up a finger, a smirk playing at the corner of his mouth. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean you can¡¯t reshape them or attune them. To supplement your class, the system offers ?a specialization¡ªor, in proper terms, an attunement. This attunement is a critical part of your path, and it can bolster your strength by magnitudes.¡± Jerry¡¯s tone turned sharp, his expression stern. ¡°I¡¯m telling you this because I like you, kid. You remind me of my first days here, and I want you to survive and see what this world offers. So mark my words: pick an attunement wisely. Not because it sounds cool or edgy. I¡¯ve seen too many dumb kids choose a void attunement because they thought the ¡®dark¡¯ aspect was badass. They didn¡¯t know how to use it properly and met an early grave. Meanwhile, something straightforward¡ªlike an ember attunement¡ªcould¡¯ve saved their sorry hides.¡± He sighed and continued. ¡°I know I said abilities don¡¯t evolve, but that¡¯s only half true. With an attunement, they do. It reshapes your abilities into something more. Let¡¯s say someone with a wizard class has an ability called Magic Bolt. If they choose an ember attunement, that Magic Bolt gets an additional attunement effect. No pun intended, but it literally adds more firepower to their arsenal.¡± Jerry stood, his voice tinged with frustration. ¡°You should see a system notification soon about this hidden feature being uncovered. And I mean hidden. The system doesn¡¯t tell us shit. It took some fire-obsessed lunatic stumbling across it for word to get out. Pure dumb luck.¡± He shook his head, clearly annoyed. Fixing Colm with a meaningful stare, Jerry added, ¡°Take your time. Think about what kind of fighter you want to be, how you want to survive. Attunements are unique to each person¡ªno two are the same¡ªso whatever you choose will be yours alone. Keep that in mind.¡± With a note of finality, Jerry grabbed a few books from the table and snapped them shut. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough for tonight. I¡¯m heading out to get some food and sleep. You don¡¯t need either, given your race, so use the time to focus on your attunement. I want you to think long and hard about your choice by the time I come back in the morning. Don¡¯t pick it right away either. Think about it. I¡¯m not going to help you decide either as an attunement is a personal journey. You have to pick what feels right for you.¡± He turned toward the door, his footsteps surprisingly light for a man of his presence. ¡°You can stay here for the next couple of days while we go through these lessons, but after that, you¡¯re on your own. I¡¯ll let the guild know you¡¯re staying, so don¡¯t worry about getting kicked out.¡± Jerry paused at the threshold, glancing back over his shoulder, his voice heavy with warning. ¡°Good luck, Colm. And don¡¯t be stupid.¡± With that, Jerry disappeared into the hallway, leaving Colm alone with his thoughts¡ªand the looming weight of the notification before him. [ Congratulations! Hidden Feature Unlocked. Attunement An Attunement is a hidden system perk granted to those who align themselves with the elements of the world and have gained the knowledge to do so. Your personality, class, and abilities determined the attunements presented to you. 7 Suitable Attunements found. Please select an attunement to shape your path. Mist ¨C Silent and elusive, mist clings to every surface, concealing movement and intent. It shrouds your presence like a veil, lingering faintly before vanishing into nothingness. Spark ¨C A fleeting brilliance, a crackle of energy. Spark ignites life into every action, flickering with relentless intensity before surging into power. Gale ¨C The untamed force of the wind, swift and unpredictable. Gale sweeps across the battlefield, carrying strength in its flow and leaving the air trembling in its wake. Clay ¨C Solid, steady, and malleable. Clay forms the foundation, adapting to pressure with enduring resilience, shaping the path with each grounded step. Twilight ¨C Where light and shadow meet, twilight blurs the edges of reality. It exists between moments, subtle yet profound, leaving traces of its quiet power across the world. Tide ¨C Constant and inevitable, the tide flows without end. It leaves its mark on everything it touches, carving paths and pulling all into its steady, relentless embrace. Ember ¨C A spark that refuses to die, embers smolder with quiet promise. Small and unassuming, yet ready to ignite into a blaze when fanned by determination. ] "Holy shit", Colm muttered. Chapter 43: Picking an Attunement Colm stared at the glowing screen in front of him, his thoughts racing. The fight with the Pitchcaller replayed in his mind, its overwhelming strength finally making sense. It must have had some sort of attunement. Jerry¡¯s words echoed in his head, connecting the dots that had eluded him before. His mind drifted back to the Grove Stalker. The second time he faced that beast, it had ignited itself, its body cloaked in flames, its attacks covered with flames, and its endurance heightened. That had to have been an attunement, too. Something that bolstered its strength and durability, turning an already terrifying creature into a true powerhouse. It all clicked now¡ªattunements were the key to unlocking a new level of power. ¡°I can get even stronger¡±, Colm whispered to himself, the words barely audible. A spark of excitement flickered inside him¡ªan ember of hope igniting into something more. What other hidden features are there in the system? He leaned back, running a hand through his hair as his thoughts spiraled. Is there some threshold to unlocking them? It looks like once Jerry gave me the knowledge, it unlocked it for me. His brow furrowed. Is that all it took? Missing knowledge that once I learned about it, the system unlocked it fully? ¡°This is insane,¡± Colm muttered, unable to fully grasp the enormity of the revelation. He sat there, stunned, trying to process everything. Jerry had dropped a bombshell of knowledge on him¡ªchanged the way he saw his path entirely. I barely even know the guy, Colm thought, his expression softening. And he¡¯s already done so much for me. He¡¯s taught me more in a single day than I¡¯ve learned in months of surviving alone. I don¡¯t know why he¡¯s helping me, but I truly appreciate it. Colm took a steadying breath, forcing his focus back to the screen hovering in front of him. Attunements. The word carried weight. He¡¯d unlocked something incredible¡ªsomething that could redefine his strength, his abilities, his future. ¡°They all sound incredible,¡± he muttered, scrolling through the descriptions with a mix of awe and anticipation. ¡°But what fits me?¡± His gaze lingered on the options, his mind sifting through each one. This wasn¡¯t just about raw power¡ªit was about who he was, how he fought, and what would keep him alive. [ Congratulations! Hidden Feature Unlocked. Attunement An Attunement is a hidden system perk granted to those who align themselves with the elements of the world and have gained the knowledge to do so. Your personality, class, and abilities determined the attunements presented to you. 7 Suitable Attunements found. Please select an attunement to shape your path. Mist ¨C Silent and elusive, mist clings to every surface, concealing movement and intent. It shrouds your presence like a veil, lingering faintly before vanishing into nothingness. Spark ¨C A fleeting brilliance, a crackle of energy. Spark ignites life into every action, flickering with relentless intensity before surging into power. Gale ¨C The untamed force of the wind, swift and unpredictable. Gale sweeps across the battlefield, carrying strength in its flow and leaving the air trembling in its wake. Clay ¨C Solid, and malleable. Clay forms the foundation, adapting to pressure with enduring resilience, shaping the path with each grounded step. Twilight ¨C Where light and shadow meet, twilight blurs the edges of reality. It exists between moments, subtle yet profound, leaving traces of its quiet power across the world. Tide ¨C Constant and inevitable, the tide flows without end. It leaves its mark on everything it touches, carving paths and pulling all into its steady, relentless embrace. Ember ¨C A spark that refuses to die. Embers smolder with quiet promise. Small and unassuming, yet ready to ignite into a blaze when fanned by determination. ] Colm sat there, staring at the glowing screen before him. This is different. Every other choice I¡¯ve made so far was in a rush¡ªlife or death, with no room to think. But here, now, I have time. A rare sense of safety settled over him as he let out a slow breath. I¡¯m in no rush. ¡°I guess I¡¯ll go through them all,¡± he muttered, shrugging. Still, the sheer weight of the decision felt overwhelming. Mist could be pretty good. He leaned back, recalling the fight with the Pitchcaller. As a summoner, my strength is my phantoms, but my weakness? It¡¯s definitely when something focuses on me. The memory of the Pitchcaller¡¯s relentless assault flashed through his mind, his near-death moments still vivid. If I¡¯d been able to hide myself better, or if it hadn¡¯t locked onto me so easily, that fight could¡¯ve been so much smoother. Mist moved up on his mental list. Spark, he considered next. It sounds like raw power. Less utility, sure, but strength isn¡¯t something I can ignore. His mind flickered to Carver, stronger now at Tier 2. I might not lack firepower with my phantoms anymore, but pure, undeniable strength? That¡¯s never a bad thing. Gale. He frowned slightly. It makes me think of the Pitchcaller. I wonder if it had something like a gale attunement? His lips pressed into a thin line. Wind never really resonated with me, though. I¡¯ve never cared much for the concept, and Jerry said to pick something that felt right. His thoughts shifted to Clay. This one gave him pause. It¡¯s similar to Gale¡ªI never gave it much thought. But¡­ my phantoms are kind of like clay beings, right? I shape them into existence, mold them to fit what I need. He nodded to himself. That resonates a little. I¡¯ll put it as a maybe. Twilight. Colm¡¯s expression hardened. No. Just no. A shiver ran through him, and he couldn¡¯t quite put his finger on why. Light and shadow? It¡¯s just not for me. Plus, Jerry mentioned how people pick Void attunements just because they sound edgy, and that¡¯s exactly how this feels. It rubs me the wrong way. Tide. A small smile crept onto his face. I like the sound of this one. There¡¯s something about it that feels¡­ unstoppable. A force that moves no matter what. No hesitation, no stopping, just constant forward motion. That¡¯s the kind of feeling I can get behind. And then there was Ember. He frowned slightly, but not in distaste. I¡¯m not one for fire, but I can respect the raw power it offers. Ember would make things easier¡ªit could bring overwhelming strength. He glanced at his hand, tracing the faint lines of glowing mana. But do I really need it? I don¡¯t have to rely on fire for survival. My Morvyn traits handle the dark. I don¡¯t need fire for food. Would Ember overlap the utility I already have? He let out a long sigh, running a hand through his hair. ¡°So many choices,¡± he muttered. ¡°They all sound amazing.¡± After a long moment, Colm straightened, determination settling over him. Okay, I can narrow this down. Mist, Spark, Clay, Tide, and Ember. Those felt right¡ªeach of them clicked with him on some level. Now I just have to figure out which one fits me best. Minutes turned into hours as Colm sat there, weighing each option, the possibilities swirling through his mind. ¡°Okay, I¡¯m throwing out Clay and Ember,¡± Colm muttered, shaking his head. ¡°They just don¡¯t mesh with me.¡± He let out a frustrated sigh, staring at the remaining options. That just leaves Mist, Spark, and Tide. ¡°This is a damn pain,¡± he grumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°I really wish Jerry was here to answer some questions.¡± But he remembered Jerry¡¯s words¡ªthis choice is yours. There¡¯d be no shortcuts here. Colm sat up straighter as a thought clicked in his head. Do I really feel a personal connection to Mist? He paused, turning the idea over in his mind. I thought it sounded cool, sure. I liked the idea of hiding myself. But now that I really think about it, I don¡¯t feel any connection to it. I was just latching onto the utility¡ªthe idea of staying hidden, staying safe. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. He exhaled slowly, the realization settling in. If I strip that away, it¡¯s just Spark and Tide now. His eyes drifted upward, as though searching for answers in the ceiling. Spark¡­ A small smile tugged at his lips. It sounds incredible. I can¡¯t help but imagine thunderstorms brewing in the distance, the lightning dancing between the clouds, the crash of thunder rolling through the air. It was always so¡­ soothing. Watching storms roll in, their chaotic beauty, their raw power¡ªit was mesmerizing. His smile faltered slightly, his mind shifting. And then there¡¯s Tide. The word brought a weight to his chest, a gentle ache he hadn¡¯t allowed himself to feel in so long. The beach. Hidden memories surfaced: the endless waves crashing against the shore, rolling in and out in a rhythm as old as time itself. We used to go there all the time. His thoughts turned wistful. We never lived far from the beach, so we¡¯d visit it constantly¡ªher and I. The memory stung, tugging at something deep inside him. We really loved it, didn¡¯t we? He mumbled, shoulders slumping low. Colm stared at the ground, his fingers absentmindedly tracing the edge of the table. I shoved those memories down for so long, trying to cope with everything. But I can still see it¡­ the waves, stretching out for miles. Their ceaseless crashing onto the sand¡ªpowerful, yet somehow serene. A tear slipped down his cheek, startling him out of his thoughts. He wiped it away quickly, but it didn¡¯t stop the others from falling. ¡°I think¡­ I know what choice I need to make.¡± His voice cracked slightly as he spoke. It hurts. It brings those memories back¡ªthe ones I tried to bury so deep. Colm leaned back in his chair, staring up at the screen through tear-blurred eyes. ¡°I think I need a therapist,¡± he whispered with a dry laugh. ¡°I bottled so much up after everything that happened. But this¡­ this world¡­¡± He shook his head, voice trembling. ¡°It¡¯s forcing me to face everything I¡¯ve buried. And maybe that¡¯s a good thing.¡± The tears kept falling, but there was a strange sense of peace in letting them go. For the first time in a long time, he didn¡¯t fight them. Colm sat there, thinking about the life he¡¯d had, the people he¡¯d lost, and the path that lay ahead of him now. [ Attunement Selected: Tide You have embraced the power of the tide¡ªan unrelenting force that never falters. The tide ebbs and flows, and so does your path. Though you may stumble, you will not stop. You are now one with the endless tide. Attunement Abilities Acquired Rising Current (Level 1) The tide surges with your movements. Your steps leave rippling waves of water in their wake, increasing your movement speed while slowing enemies who pass through them. Standing within these waves restores a small amount of health and mana over time. Wavebound Surge (Level 1) Mana: 50 Cast Time: Instant Cooldown: 20 Seconds Channel the power of the tide, sending out a surging wave in a cone in front of you. The wave deals moderate damage to all enemies hit and knocks them back. If standing in Rising Current, the wave becomes empowered, causing increased damage and slowing all enemies hit for 3 seconds. Class Abilities Adapted Your class abilities have been infused with the essence of the tide. The waves now flow through them, leaving their mark and empowering their strength. ] The moment Colm selected the attunement, a surge of power rippled through him, like a wave crashing over his body. He exhaled sharply, his limbs tingling with energy, as if the ocean itself had flowed through his veins. Without hesitation, he pulled up his abilities, eager to see how they had changed now that the tide was his to command. [ Active Ability: Phantom Warrior (Tier 2, Level 2) Mana: 25% of your total mana Summon a single empowered spectral warrior, a stronger and more resilient manifestation of the spirit realm. Only one Phantom Warrior can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current warrior. The Phantom Warrior can now use Ripping Cleave. Ripping Cleave causes the warrior''s blade to glow blue and unleashes a sweeping strike that cleaves through multiple enemies in a cone-shaped area, dealing 150% weapon damage. This attack applies a Spectral Rend debuff, causing enemies hit to take additional damage over 5 seconds. Ripping Cleave has a cooldown of 30 seconds. Tide Attunement Effect: Ripping Cleave now generates a crashing wave of water that travels 5 feet beyond its initial cone range, dealing 30% additional splash damage to enemies caught in its path and knocks them back. Enemies hit are Drenched, increasing the damage they take from all sources by 10% for 4 seconds. Active Ability: Phantom Spearman (Level 10) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral spearman to aid you in combat, who wields a long spear and is effective for keeping enemies at a distance. The Spearman delivers powerful thrusts that can push back enemies, making it useful for maintaining control over the battlefield. Only one Phantom Spearman can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current Spearman. Tide Attunement Effect: Each thrust from the Phantom Spearman generates a wave of water that pulses outward in a small area. The wave deals minor splash damage to nearby enemies and restores a small amount of Colm¡¯s mana when it hits. Active Ability: Phantom Archer (Level 10) Mana: 25 Summons a spectral archer equipped with a longbow, capable of firing precise, ethereal arrows. The arrows deal moderate damage and can pierce through multiple enemies in a line. Only one Phantom Archer can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current Archer. Tide Attunement Effect: Arrows fired by the Phantom Archer leave a trail of Rising Current in their wake for 6 seconds. Enemies hit are Drenched, increasing the damage they take from all sources by 10% for 4 seconds. Passive Ability: Lingering Vitality (Tier 2, Level 10) Your connection to the spirit realm has deepened, allowing its energy to sustain you with unparalleled strength. Rapidly regenerate health when out of combat. Slowly regenerate health during combat. Tide Attunement Effect: While standing in water, or the waves generated by your abilities, Lingering Vitality¡¯s combat regeneration increases by an additional 40%. Passive Ability: Spectral Persistence (Level 10) A phantom¡¯s duty never ends. When destroyed, a phantom lingers briefly as an invulnerable spectral remnant, dealing 40% of its original damage over 8 seconds before fading completely. Tide Attunement Effect: While the phantom lingers, it unleashes Surging Ripples¡ªperiodic bursts of water every 2 seconds in a 5-foot radius around its position. Each ripple deals damage to all enemies caught in its radius and applies a Drenched debuff, increasing the damage they take from all sources by 10% for 4 seconds. Passive Ability: Phantom Sacrifice (Level 10) When you take fatal damage, your nearest active phantom absorbs the blow, sacrificing itself to save you. The phantom is destroyed, and you are left with 30% of your maximum health. Requires at least one phantom to be active and has a 15-minute cooldown and the sacrificed phantom cannot be summoned during the cooldown duration. Tide Attunement Effect: Upon activation of Phantom Sacrifice, a wave of restorative water surges outward in a 10-foot radius. This wave restores 15% of Colm¡¯s mana and grants him a Flowing Resilience buff, reducing incoming damage by 15% for 60 seconds. ] Colm sat there, staring at his newly upgraded abilities, his eyes wide with disbelief. ¡°Holyyyyy shit.¡± The words slipped out as he processed the sheer magnitude of the changes. Everything had powered up¡ªeach ability enhanced with additional effects. Unable to contain his excitement, he jumped to his feet, and the moment his feet hit the ground, rippling waves formed beneath him. Colm froze, glancing down in awe as the water swirled gently, tracing his steps. Rising Current. So this one¡¯s passive. It doesn¡¯t even cost mana. Looks like I can toggle it on and off, though. He thought, pacing slowly to test it further. With each step, the puddles expanded outward, shimmering faintly before lingering for a few seconds and gradually dissipating as if they¡¯d never been there. Colm grinned like a kid with a new toy, quickly testing its range. He jogged a few paces, creating a small trail of waves behind him, then doubled back. As he passed through the rippling water, he felt it¡ªan unmistakable boost to his movement. It was subtle but powerful, like the tide itself pushing him forward. This is incredible, he thought, barely able to contain his laughter. He sprinted a little faster; the ripples trailing him like echoes of his steps. His joy bubbled up into a chuckle, his glee undeniable. He was already envisioning how to use this¡ªhow he could dart through the battlefield, leaving waves behind that would turn the tide in his favor. Just as Colm was about to unleash his other abilities and see what else had changed, a dry voice rang out, cutting through the quiet of the library. ¡°Enjoying yourself over there?¡± Colm whipped his head toward the source, only to see Jerry standing a few rows away, arms crossed, an amused grin tugging at his lips. The old man let out a low, knowing cackle, clearly entertained as he watched Colm¡¯s childlike enthusiasm at work. Colm sheepishly scratched the back of his head, muttering, ¡°Uh¡­ yeah, maybe a little.¡± [ Status ] Name: Colm Arden Race: Morvyn Level: 60 Health: 1450 / 1450 Mana: 630 / 630 Strength: 65 (78) Dexterity: 70 (84) Intelligence: 105 (126) Constitution: 121 (145) Attunement: Tide Attunement Abilities: - Rising Current (Level 1) - Wavebound Surge (Level 1) Class: Spirit Warden Active Class Abilities: - Phantom Warrior (Tier 2, Level 2) [Carver] - Phantom Spearman (Level 10) [Lance] - Phantom Archer (Level 10) [Robin] - Empty - Empty Passive Class Abilities: - Lingering Vitality (Tier 2, Level 10) - Spectral Persistence (Level 10) - Phantom Sacrifice (Level 10) - Empty - Empty Skills: - Analyze (Level 4) - Stealth (Level 7) - Pain Resistance (Tier 2, Level 1) - Hardened Skin (Level 8) - Slash Resistance (Level 7) - Spear Mastery (Level 10) - Sprint Mastery (Level 10) - Poison Resistance (Level 6) - Stun Resistance (Level 5) - Dual Wielding (Level 4) - Infection Resistance (Tier 3, Level 10) Achievements: - Through the Rift - Champion of the Lucent Grove - Bane of the Undead Chapter 44: Next Lesson Colm couldn¡¯t contain himself any longer, his excitement boiling over. ¡°This is incredible! Why did I suddenly get an attunement right after you told me about it? Does everyone have one? Why is it hidden? What else does the system hide¡ª?¡± He stopped abruptly as Jerry held up a hand, his expression calm but firm. ¡°Calm down, kid¡ªone question at a time,¡± Jerry said, his tone measured. ¡°I¡¯ll answer a few of those, and then we¡¯re going to get back to the lessons I had planned. After that, if you want, you can hit the training hall and try out those shiny new upgrades.¡± Before Jerry could continue, Colm jumped in again. ¡°Wait¡ªbefore we go any further, I have to ask. Why are you helping me? I¡¯m just some random guy Joss pointed your way, and you dropped what you were doing to help me out. Why?¡± Jerry chuckled at the question, his gruff voice softening slightly. "That one¡¯s easy, so let¡¯s start there." Leaning back, he folded his arms, settling into a comfortable stance. "I¡¯m a historian for the Adventurers¡¯ Guild. My job, simply put, is to gather, preserve, and share information. Been at it a long time, and I do it because I enjoy it¡ªsimple as that. Who knows where I¡¯ll be in a few years, but for now, this is what I do." His gaze drifted for a moment before he added, "There¡¯s a lot about this world we don¡¯t know. Hell, compared to how things were before the system arrived, we¡¯re barely scratching the surface." He shrugged, then continued. "But here¡¯s the real reason I¡¯m helping you. Sure, it¡¯s my job, but it¡¯s also part of what the Adventurers¡¯ Guild stands for. You don¡¯t know much about us yet, but you will soon enough. When the system came, the guild formed¡ªa group of people banding together to help others survive in this chaotic world. That¡¯s what we do." Jerry¡¯s expression turned serious. ¡°Sure, we make good money doing it, but those who are in it just for the coin don¡¯t last long. This world chews up people like that and spits them out. I help because I want to¡ªand because people like you, who clearly have potential, need a foundation to stand on.¡± Colm absorbed the words, nodding slightly as Jerry¡¯s demeanor softened. ¡°Now, as for your attunement questions,¡± Jerry continued, moving the conversation forward. ¡°Why did you receive an attunement, and why is it hidden? Those two things go hand in hand.¡± He leaned forward, his tone a mix of authority and curiosity. ¡°From what we understand, attunements are a system-provided feature, but they¡¯re hidden by default. If you don¡¯t know about them, you¡¯ll never get to use them. That¡¯s the trigger¡ªknowledge. The moment you realize there¡¯s something more and what it''s about you are ready to unlock it, the system acknowledges that and responds. Why does it work that way? Hell, we don¡¯t know. But it makes you wonder, doesn¡¯t it? What else is the system hiding? What other secrets could it be waiting for us to uncover?¡± Jerry smirked, his eyes glinting with the same curiosity Colm was feeling. ¡°You¡¯ve already seen what attunements can do. How it granted new abilities and supercharged your class abilities with no extra cost? Now imagine if there¡¯s more out there like that¡ªmore hidden features that just require the right conditions to unlock. That''s what I want to find. That knowledge could save lives.¡± Colm felt his pulse quicken at the thought, but Jerry wasn¡¯t done. ¡°And yes, pretty much everyone has an attunement¡ªeventually. Few people these days figure it out naturally; others need someone like me to give them the knowledge to push them in the right direction. It¡¯s an enormous boost to anyone¡¯s abilities, but it¡¯s also personal. That¡¯s why I was so damn insistent earlier.¡± Jerry jabbed a finger in the air for emphasis. ¡°An attunement has to resonate with you. It¡¯s not about copying what some bigshot picked because they looked cool or strong. Plenty of fools choose something flashy that doesn¡¯t fit them and end up dead because of it.¡± He leaned back with a satisfied huff, his expression leveling out. ¡°That¡¯s why I gave you the warning. You seem smart enough to take it seriously. Now, focus on making that attunement yours.¡± Colm sat there, processing Jerry¡¯s words, feeling the weight of it all settle over him. The system was more complex¡ªand more mysterious¡ªthan he¡¯d ever realized, but at least now he had a clearer idea of where to start. Clearing his throat, Jerry pressed on. ¡°Alright, now that you¡¯ve got a basic understanding of classes and attunements, it¡¯s time to discuss the world itself. I know I¡¯ve mentioned bits and pieces, and you¡¯ve probably had a few system notifications about it, but we¡¯re in a place called the Echoed Lands.¡± He paused for a moment, his gaze growing distant. "We don¡¯t really know why it¡¯s called that. When the system arrived, it rebranded the world, as if it had always been this way. The Echoed Lands are essentially a vast collection of massive isles, separated by endless stretches of open water. There¡¯s still so much unexplored territory, and even what we have mapped out is only a fraction of the world." His expression darkened slightly. "We have outposts on some of the isles, but from what we understand, we estimate nearly seventy to eighty percent of them have been overrun by the undead, their strength varying from place to place. That¡¯s the world now." He exhaled, shaking his head. "It wasn¡¯t always like this. Before the system, we had massive continents¡ªentire landmasses that stretched farther than you could imagine. But now?" He gestured vaguely. "Scattered islands. A world cut apart." His eyes flicked back to Colm, assessing. "Either way, you¡¯ll likely be here for quite some time unless you somehow gain the ability to fly, teleport long distances, or afford transport by caravan¡ªwhich, by the way, is expensive as hell." He let the words hang before adding, "And that¡¯s not even touching on the idea of getting back to your world. Interdimensional travel? I¡¯ve never heard of it. Maybe it¡¯s possible, but¡­ who knows?" Jerry leaned back slightly, fixing Colm with a steady look. ¡°My recommendation? Stay here in Brimhope. Learn the ropes, get stronger, and figure out what you want to do next before making any rash decisions.¡± He continued, gesturing loosely with his hand. "Now, speaking of Brimhope, this town sits near the northern coast of the isle¡ªand compared to some of the smaller ones out there, we¡¯re on a massive landmass. Some isles are barely more than specks in the ocean, but this one? It stretches for thousands of miles." He paused, his expression thoughtful. "Actually, we believe the Shift expanded the world. This one isle alone is nearly half the size of one of the major continents before the Shift¡ªyet it¡¯s still just one of hundreds. If that¡¯s true, then the sheer scale of the world we¡¯re in now is far beyond what it used to be." He glanced northward. "If you travel a few hundred miles in that direction, you¡¯ll hit the ocean. It¡¯s a sight worth seeing¡ªvast, serene, and strangely calming. If you ever get the chance, I¡¯d suggest making the trip. Feeling the ocean breeze out there? It¡¯s something special." Jerry¡¯s voice softened slightly as he continued. ¡°Brimhope got its name from Brimwhistle, an old seafaring town. That¡¯s where I grew up. The place used to be famous for the melodic sound the wind made when it hit the coastal rock formations¡ªlike music carried on the ocean air. But that town is in ruins now and its name is now a bitter reminder that the system changed everything.¡± He let out a humorless chuckle. ¡°We got trapped in that damn forest when the system terraformed the world. At first, we tried to make it work, but the undead kept getting stronger and stronger. Eventually, we had no choice but to evacuate and flee here and founded Brimhope.¡± Jerry smirked faintly, though his eyes carried a weight of old memories. ¡°I even had to blow up the town hall during our escape because we were getting overwhelmed.¡± The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. Colm¡¯s mind clicked the pieces together almost immediately, thinking quickly about the crater. Shit, that was him? Pushing the thought aside, Colm blurted out, ¡°Brimwhistle! That¡¯s where I ended up when I left the Echo. I got infected there and well, that¡¯s how I became a Morvyn. There was this incredibly strong undead under that crater in a bunker with what I¡¯m sure was a wind attunement. It used these haunting whistles as weapons, and the system called it a Pitchcaller. Damn, thing was strong and creative. Nearly killed me outside of the infection.¡± At the description of the Pitchcaller, Jerry¡¯s faint smirk faded. His gaze turned sharp and distant, a sadness flickering across his face. ¡°Ah, I see,¡± Jerry muttered, his voice quieter now. ¡°So¡­ he finally bit the dust.¡± Colm frowned, watching Jerry closely as the man exhaled deeply and continued, ¡°There¡¯s only one person I know of who knew about that bunker and has abilities that sound similar to that. He was incredibly talented¡ªone of the best, really. Saved my life more times than I can count back in the early days. But something changed in him. He became¡­ sporadic. Isolated. Started hoarding knowledge, keeping secrets.¡± Jerry paused, rubbing his chin as if recalling a distant memory. ¡°I always suspected he¡¯d figured out something important¡ªlike attunements¡ªlong before the rest of us. But I never confirmed it. I never set foot back in Brimwhistle after we fled.¡± Jerry¡¯s expression darkened slightly, and his words carried a quiet weight. ¡°If it was who I think it was, his name was Pitch Lorn. My brother.¡± He shook his head, the sadness lingering. ¡°A damn shame how things turned out.¡± "I''m sorry to hear that," Colm said, his tone laced with sympathy. "If it¡¯s any consolation, I found something in that bunker under the crater¡ªa makeshift office. There was a journal, mostly illegible, but it had some notes. I think it might have been his." He extended the journal toward Jerry. Jerry¡¯s eyes widened slightly as he took it from Colm''s outstretched hand. "Thank you," he said, his voice quiet, almost reverent, as he carefully held the worn pages. Struggling to continue, Jerry pushed forward, his voice steady despite the weight of the topic. "The undead¡ªwe¡¯ll go into more detail later, but for now, what you need to know is that they¡¯re deadly. Well¡­ maybe not as much to you anymore, but to most? They¡¯re a death sentence unless you have a good way to sustain yourself and most don''t." He exhaled, his tone darkening. "The infection affects people differently. Some turn into mindless husks, stripped of everything they once were. Others¡ªthe stronger ones¡ªretain fragments of themselves. Their abilities, their instincts¡­ hell, even the system acknowledges them." His jaw tightened as his voice dropped lower. "Seeing as it called Pitch the Pitchcaller." His words lingered in the air, his expression unreadable as silence settled between them.
Once the initial anger subsided, Jerry cleared his throat and continued where he left off, knowing his brother was truly gone. ¡°Ahem. Alright, let¡¯s keep going. That¡¯s the basics of the world. You won¡¯t be leaving this isle anytime soon, so don¡¯t worry about that. Now, let¡¯s talk about Echoes. From what you¡¯ve told me, you¡¯ve already dealt with one¡ªand a unique, sentient one at that. Those are beyond rare.¡± Jerry leaned forward, his gaze sharp. ¡°For some background, we only know what the system tells us. Echoes are isolated pockets of space that exist separate from the overworld, places filled with challenges and opportunities. They appear randomly, some seem permanent, others seem to last only until they¡¯re cleared once. We have a few permanent ones around here. One thing to nitpick is I swear on my life the name Echo isn¡¯t random.¡± He paused, his eyes distant, as if staring into the past. ¡°I believe Echoes are remnants of the world before the shift,¡± Jerry stated firmly. ¡°The term Echo? It¡¯s a nod from the system. A memory of what was. In my time, I¡¯ve been through hundreds, maybe thousands of Echoes. Some of them felt familiar, like places I¡¯ve been before. It¡¯s eerie as hell.¡± He sighed, shaking his head. ¡°Unfortunately, we¡¯ve never confirmed this. Just a gut feeling.¡± Jerry sat back and cracked a faint grin. ¡°Echoes can be anything. Some are slaughterhouses where you¡¯re fighting wave after wave of monsters. Others are giant puzzles¡ªclues, traps, riddles you¡¯ve got to figure out to move forward. Hell, there¡¯s no real limit to them. I once got stuck in one for a year.¡± He gave Colm a pointed look. ¡°Yeah, you heard me. A whole year. That damn Echo didn¡¯t let me out until it decided I¡¯d ¡®won¡¯ and handed me a system notification for my trouble. Nearly drove me insane.¡± Colm stared at him, wide-eyed, but Jerry waved him off. ¡°Moving on.¡± ¡°Sentient Echoes, though? Those are a whole different ball game,¡± Jerry said, his tone turning serious. ¡°Regular Echoes are static¡ªmostly unchanging. Sentient ones? They¡¯re alive, Colm. They can manipulate everything. The entrance, the environment, the monsters inside. They can make things harder, easier, or downright impossible. I don¡¯t know how they came about, but they¡¯re terrifying.¡± He leaned in, his voice low and heavy. ¡°Listen to me. I¡¯m a high level¡ªhigher than most. But in a sentient Echo? They could squash me like a bug if they wanted to. I¡¯ve encountered a handful in all my years¡ªfive,¡± he said, holding up his hand for emphasis. ¡°Each one was¡­ passive. Almost helpful. But that doesn¡¯t mean there aren¡¯t bad seeds out there. A sentient Echo with malice? That¡¯s something you don¡¯t want to face.¡± Jerry let the weight of that statement sink in before exhaling. ¡°Alright, now that you¡¯ve had your crash course on Echoes, let¡¯s talk about the fun part. Echoes are our training grounds. That¡¯s how most people level up. Fighting the undead out in the overworld? Sure, it¡¯ll give you some experience, but it¡¯s slow as hell. The undead¡¯s levels decay over time. Even worse, one mistake¡ªone bite, one scratch¡ªand you¡¯re done for.¡± He pointed at Colm. ¡°You lucky bastard don¡¯t have to worry about that anymore as a Morvyn, but you know how deadly it is. Echoes, though? That¡¯s where you get stronger. Real experience, real challenges. But it¡¯s dangerous, too. Echoes follow the same tier system as everything else in this world. Tier 1 Echoes are the easiest; Tier 5 is the most dangerous. Sentient Echoes? They¡¯re beyond classification¡ªno tier, no way to gauge their true danger.¡± Jerry paused long enough for Colm to interject, ¡°How long does it take to clear an Echo?¡± Jerry shrugged. ¡°There¡¯s no set time frame. Some can take a couple of hours. Others might stretch into days or weeks. And sentient ones?¡± He laughed dryly. ¡°Those are unpredictable. Like I said, that one I got stuck in for a year? That was a bastard of a sentient Echo. It wanted to test my patience, so it kept me trapped until it was satisfied.¡± Jerry smirked, though the memory seemed to sting. ¡°And let me tell you¡ªnothing messes with your sanity like being stuck in one place for that long.¡± ¡°Next,¡± Jerry continued, his voice steady and serious, ¡°I want to touch on something else¡ªAchievements. They¡¯re rare, but they¡¯re worth their weight in gold. While not strictly tied to Echoes, achievements seem to be more commonly earned through them. Think of them as rewards for exceptional feats of strength, ingenuity, or sheer survival.¡± He paused, locking eyes with Colm. ¡°Here¡¯s the important part¡ªthey¡¯re powerful and their bonuses add up. Achievements offer boosts¡ªno strings attached, no drawbacks. A flat-out blessing to your abilities. If you get one, consider yourself damn lucky.¡± Colm¡¯s mind swam with questions, the weight of the new information pressing on him. He couldn¡¯t help but think of his synergized achievements. ¡°Is there a cap to the number of achievements someone can have? And are there different types of achievements?¡± Jerry smirked, the sharp look in his eyes making it clear he wasn¡¯t missing the weight behind Colm¡¯s words. ¡°No, there¡¯s no cap. You can have as many achievements as you¡¯re lucky¡ªor skilled¡ªenough to earn. That said, don¡¯t get ahead of yourself. Achievements are rare. You¡¯d be lucky to get a handful in your lifetime, let alone more than that.¡± He leaned forward slightly, his tone taking on a more measured quality. ¡°As for types? Yes, there are. Most Achievements are what we call standard achievements¡ªrewards for individual feats of strength, survival, or ingenuity. Simple, effective, and valuable. But then¡­¡± Jerry¡¯s smirk grew wider, almost conspiratorial. ¡°There are synergized achievements.¡± Colm blinked, curiosity prickling at the word. Excited to learn more at last about synergized achievements. ¡°Synergized Achievements happen when two or more individual Achievements align to form something greater¡ªa combined reward that amplifies their individual effects. These are exceedingly rare and incredibly powerful. You never really know when they¡¯ll happen, though. Sometimes, it¡¯s pure chance¡ªa set of circumstances where the right feats string together. Other times, it¡¯s the system recognizing that events are working toward a common purpose and rewarding that synergy.¡± Jerry¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly as he studied Colm, his gaze more scrutinizing now. ¡°It¡¯s what makes you wonder just how lucky¡ªor unlucky¡ªsomeone has to be to stumble into it.¡± Chapter 45: Final Lesson Jerry closed the last book with a decisive thud and leaned back, stretching his arms with a satisfied sigh. ¡°Alright, kid, this is the last bit I¡¯m going to cover with you. After this, you¡¯re on your own. If you ever need more information, this library,¡±¡ªhe gestured broadly at the towering shelves around them¡ª¡°has everything you¡¯ll need. I¡¯ve written most of these books myself, so if you want to dig deeper into what I¡¯ve told you today, you¡¯ll find it here. What I¡¯ve given you is a crash course. There¡¯s definitely more detail that I¡¯ve glossed over or missed, so ?come back here when you¡¯ve got questions.¡± Jerry leaned forward again, his expression serious. ¡°Now, let¡¯s finish this up. We¡¯re going to talk about leveling, loot, and lastly, the undead plague.¡± Colm straightened in his seat, absorbing every word. ¡°I¡¯ve already touched on monsters and how their levels don¡¯t mean shit¡ªdon¡¯t forget that. What matters are attributes and tiers, and the system does shit to tell you that. Higher-tier classes give you an edge because they allow you to punch above your level. If you¡¯re smart and strong enough to fight monsters a few levels above you, you¡¯ll earn more experience and level up faster. Some lucky encounters can even net you multiple levels in one go.¡± Jerry jabbed a finger at Colm for emphasis. ¡°But here¡¯s my advice: don¡¯t go rushing into fights you¡¯re not ready for. You don''t want to run into something of the same tier that is much higher level than you. Hone your skills first. Build up your reflexes, instincts, and combat sense. Once you know how to use your abilities properly, then you can start taking those risks. That¡¯s just my two cents, though¡ªit¡¯s dated advice because you''re not like most people. With a high-tier class like yours, you¡¯ll run laps around them. Still, I¡¯d recommend finding a team to learn from, at least for a little while. You¡¯ll share experience, so it¡¯ll take longer to level up, but the knowledge and safety a group brings are worth it. I did that myself for a time. Then, when I felt ready, I struck out on my own. It worked for me because, well let¡¯s just say I¡¯m uniquely hard to kill. That¡¯s not everyone¡¯s cup of tea, though.¡± Jerry leaned back again, his voice growing more casual. ¡°Next is loot. Monsters rarely drop anything worthwhile, but when they do, it¡¯s better than anything you¡¯d ever get by taking apart their bodies. System drops¡ªloot awarded directly¡ªare incredibly valuable and go for a fortune. If you¡¯re lucky enough to get something, I¡¯d recommend visiting the appraisers at the Adventurer¡¯s Guild. They¡¯ll give you a fair estimate. If the item suits your combat style, you might also consider bringing it to a crafter. System-enhanced crafted gear is leagues ahead of anything else you¡¯ll find.¡± He paused for a moment, as if weighing his words, before his voice took on a darker edge. ¡°Now for the undead plague. As you already know, we¡¯ve got a bit of a problem with the undead. We don¡¯t know if it¡¯s something the system brought with it or if it was part of the reason the system came. What we know is that it¡¯s manageable¡ªmost of the time.¡± Jerry¡¯s gaze turned distant, his tone heavier. ¡°Undead cluster in cursed zones¡ªareas of rot and corruption that spread slowly but persistently. I believe these hubs form around a powerful undead¡ªsomeone who was once strong in life but wasn''t able to survive the infection. Very few? classes have healing, so when the infection takes hold, almost everyone dies. When they succumb, they anchor themselves to the land, cultivating it into a nest. The zones expand at a snail¡¯s pace, though, so it¡¯s not an immediate threat, not for hundreds of years, anyway. But those undead at the center? The masters of the hubs? They¡¯re terrifying. Some are stronger than me, and that¡¯s saying something. I have little regeneration, so I tend to not risk attacking the hubs.¡± He locked eyes with Colm. ¡°You might think you¡¯ve got an edge as a Morvyn, and maybe you do, but don¡¯t let that arrogance get you killed. I¡¯ve seen other Morvyn try to clear those hubs, and almost every one of them met an early grave. One scratch, one bite, and it¡¯s over for most people. For Morvyn, the infection might not be a death sentence, but that doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯ll walk away unscathed. Don¡¯t be a hero, kid. Grow stronger. Live to fight another day.¡± Jerry exhaled, the tension in the room easing slightly as he straightened up. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s the crash course I wanted to give you. There¡¯s a lot I didn¡¯t cover, and there¡¯s even more out there that we just don¡¯t know yet. If you want to learn more, find a team and delve into some nearby low-tier Echoes. Gain experience and figure things out for yourself.¡± He paused, glancing at Colm¡¯s ragged attire with a smirk. ¡°Speaking of which, you look like shit.¡± Reaching into his inventory¡ªpulling the items out of thin air¡ªJerry produced a set of clean clothes. ¡°Here, take these. They¡¯re backups I always keep on hand. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve got plenty more. I¡¯m just tired of looking at you in those rags.¡± Colm blinked in surprise but gratefully accepted the clothes. He quickly ducked into a nearby alcove, stripping off his ruined outfit and slipping into the fresh fabric. The new clothes were simple¡ªlong pants and a cotton shirt¡ªbut they felt impossibly comfortable compared to his old gear. Staring at the tattered remnants of what he¡¯d been wearing, Colm chuckled to himself. ¡°No clue how these lasted this long.¡± Glancing down at his worn-out shoes, he grumbled, ¡°I need to find some new shoes.¡± This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it. Emerging from the alcove, Colm stood before Jerry, looking fresher and feeling a little more like himself. ¡°Thank you,¡± he said earnestly before raising a brow and gesturing to the clothes. ¡°Also, where the hell did you even pull these from?¡± Jerry chuckled, clearly amused. ¡°Ah, right, you wouldn¡¯t know yet. When you make enough money, you can purchase storage items. They¡¯re invaluable¡ªbasically pocket dimensions where you can store almost anything. Supplies, gear, you name it. Food doesn¡¯t spoil, drinks stay cold or warm, and everything stays exactly as it was the moment you put it in. It¡¯s like time stops inside.¡± He smirked. ¡°I¡¯ve got enough supplies packed away to survive for decades. A good storage item makes life a lot more convenient. Just don¡¯t go thinking you can store anything living¡ªit doesn¡¯t work that way.¡± Blinking in surprise, Colm¡¯s mind raced with the possibilities. Storage spaces? That sounds ridiculously useful. Shaking off his amazement, he refocused, steeling himself. ¡°You¡¯ve given me so much information and helped me get my bearings in this godforsaken world.¡± His voice steadied with determination. ¡°I think I¡¯ll join the Adventurer¡¯s Guild, like you said, and learn the ropes. I want to get stronger. A lot stronger.¡± His voice dropped, carrying a quiet determination. ¡°Back in my world, I felt powerless. I couldn¡¯t control anything¡­ couldn¡¯t save anyone, not even those closest to me.¡± He looked away, shoulders sagging slightly before he steeled himself. ¡°I never want to be in that situation again.¡± Jerry regarded Colm for a moment, understanding softening his usually gruff demeanor. ¡°Good luck, kid,¡± he said, his tone genuine. ¡°With a high-tier class like yours, you¡¯ll be an outlier. You¡¯re going to make waves. Some people won¡¯t like that. The status quo has been set for a long time, and shaking it up puts targets on backs. Be careful, stay alive, and don¡¯t let anyone drag you down.¡± Standing up, Jerry stretched and cracked his neck. ¡°I¡¯m heading out of town for a bit. Think I¡¯ll pay Brimwhistle a visit after what you told me. Looks like we talked right into the next day, so it¡¯s just getting started. If you¡¯re set on joining the guild, talk to the clerks at the front desk¡ªthey¡¯ll get you sorted. And if you ever need more knowledge, the library¡¯s open to you. Just don¡¯t disturb me¡ªI¡¯m a busy man these days,¡± he added with a teasing smirk. Colm stood up, extending a hand toward Jerry. The older man clasped it firmly, his grip steady and sure. "Truly, thank you for everything," Colm said, his voice sincere. "I mean it." Jerry nodded, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Take care of yourself, kid. And remember¡ªstay alive." With a nod of gratitude, Colm turned and made his way toward the library''s exit, ready to face whatever lay ahead. * * * Jerry watched silently as Colm walked away, the echo of his footsteps fading into the quiet library. It¡¯s been a long time since I¡¯ve felt strength like his at that level, he mused. That Spirit Warden class of his is no joke. And synergized achievements already? That man is going to be a force to reckon with if he reaches the higher levels. I haven¡¯t felt this kind of potential resonate from anyone in years. With a deep sigh, Jerry¡¯s thoughts shifted back to Brimwhistle, stirred by the revelations Colm had shared. I should¡¯ve made the trip back a long time ago. But facing it again... it was easier not to and not knowing gave me some sort of hope. Still, I held onto some miracle that Pitch was alive. But from what Colm described, there¡¯s no one else who could¡¯ve had abilities so similar to his. He exhaled slowly, feeling the weight of the past settle heavily on his shoulders. With resolve, he focused on his mana, activating Veilstep. The world around him blurred, fading into shadows and silence. Moments later, the landscape reformed, and he stood before the ruins of Brimwhistle¡¯s old town hall. Jerry took a moment to take in the sight of the once-familiar town. The crumbled stone walls, the eerie quiet, and the faint smell of decay were a stark reminder of all he had left behind. Sighing, he stepped forward, his boots crunching against debris as he navigated through the ruins and past the countless rotting corpses scattered about. A bitter chuckle escaped his lips. ¡°Colm did a number here,¡± he murmured, surveying the carnage. ¡°That¡¯s a lot of undead. Like I said, the kid¡¯s going to be a monster one day.¡± Jerry approached the crater at the heart of the devastation, his eyes falling on a decapitated corpse that stood out amidst the rubble. His breath faltered as he bent down, reaching for a ring still glinting faintly on its decaying hand. Tears welled in his eyes as recognition struck like a blade to the heart. ¡°Yeah... this is him,¡± Jerry whispered, his voice trembling with sorrow. ¡°I¡¯d recognize this ring anywhere.¡± The memories came flooding back¡ªa gift he had given Pitch in the early days after the system¡¯s integration. Jerry sank to the ground beside the decrepit remains of his brother, his knees buckling under the weight of his grief. For a long time, he just sat there, the quiet hum of the cursed forest around him, mourning the loss of someone who had once been his anchor in the chaos. Chapter 46: Registration Time Colm exited the library, his thoughts swirling as he made his way toward the reception area. Alright, first things first: talk to a clerk about joining the guild, delving into an Echo, and securing some lodging. Even if I don¡¯t need sleep, having a safe space to practice and relax would be a relief. Oh, and the training hall Jerry mentioned. As he entered the lobby, the early hour left it mostly quiet, with only a handful of people milling about. Colm''s gaze settled on one of the clerks at the front desk, where a familiar face caught his attention¡ªLeon, the clerk who had helped him before. Colm approached Leon, who waved him over with a friendly smile. ¡°Hello, Colm. I take it your session with Jerry went well? How can I help you today?¡± Leon asked warmly. Colm smiled back, grateful for a sense of normalcy after the whirlwind of information. ¡°Hey, Leon. Yeah, Jerry was a wealth of knowledge. I¡¯ve got a lot to process, but at least I have a loose plan now.¡± Leon chuckled. ¡°That sounds about right. Jerry¡¯s got a head full of knowledge, but I¡¯m surprised he spent so much time with you. He¡¯s usually buried in his books, ignoring everything else.¡± Colm laughed at the mental image of Jerry surrounded by stacks of notes, muttering to himself. ¡°I can definitely see that.¡± Focusing back on Leon, he continued, ¡°I¡¯ve got a few things I need help with. Can you assist me in registering with the Adventurer¡¯s Guild, pointing me to a local Echo where I can find a team, and helping me find a place to stay? I¡¯m new around here and just trying to get my bearings.¡± Leon nodded, his demeanor professional but friendly. ¡°Of course, that¡¯s no problem at all. Joining the Adventurer¡¯s Guild is simple. All you need to do is place your hand on this crystal,¡± he said, pulling out a glowing object from behind the desk, ¡°and channel a bit of your mana into it. The crystal will register your mana signature into our system, which ties you to all of our branches. Being a guild member comes with plenty of benefits. For starters, you¡¯ve got access to facilities like our tavern, contracts for tasks that pay well, lodging, and training rooms.¡± Colm raised an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s the catch? Any cons to joining?¡± Leon shrugged. ¡°Not really. The guild doesn¡¯t operate for profit; we¡¯re funded by the jobs posted. The guild takes a small percentage of the rewards to keep the facilities running and ensure staff, like myself, get paid. Other than that, we¡¯re here to help. You can leave the guild anytime, though most people don¡¯t because there¡¯s no downside to staying¡ªeven if you¡¯re inactive. If you are inactive, which means you haven''t completed a job within thirty days you won''t be able to get any of the guild benefits or discounts though.¡± ¡°That does sound like a good deal,¡± Colm said. ¡°It really is,¡± Leon replied with a grin. ¡°So, would you like to join the Adventurer¡¯s Guild today?¡± Colm nodded and extended his hand toward the crystal. As his palm made contact, he felt a slight tug on his mana, and his mana pool dipped slightly. Leon smiled and handed Colm a small, silver badge. ¡°Welcome officially to the Brimhope branch of the Adventurer¡¯s Guild! This badge signifies your rank. All new members start as Tier 1 Adventurers. As you complete jobs and build a reputation, you can climb to Tier 5¡ªthe highest rank.¡± Colm examined the badge, its polished surface reflecting the light. ¡°Thanks, Leon. I appreciate it.¡± ¡°My pleasure,¡± Leon replied. And to help you with your other questions we offer a discounted rate to guild members for rooms here at the guild. The rooms are just down the hallway to the left as he pointed over his shoulder. Our rate is 5 coppers a night which beats the local lodging rate at 15 coppers a night. We don''t have anything special just rooms with basic amenities but it should suit simple needs. We have an abundance of rooms so no need to reserve in advance either " "As for getting to an Echo and a team. We have coordination efforts here within the guild where we can pair you up with a team to delve a local low tier Echo for the day." Completing Echoes can net you a few silvers for the day depending on the luck of the harvest you have from the monsters and tier of the Echo in there so it should set you up nicely to get situated here. If you''d like I can sign you up for a local group for a tier 1 echo with a slot that actually just opened up. This one averages monsters at about your level. This Echo should only take approximately 8 hours on average to clear so you''d be able to be back in no time. Just in case you aren¡¯t aware Echoes are dangerous we have lost countless lives to them so bear that in mind." "Ah yes I understand. Thank you for the warning. That Echo sounds perfect and is exactly what I am looking for," Colm said, his mind drifting to the emptiness of his pockets. "It¡¯d be amazing to help me get situated and make some cash for a few nights of lodging." "How many people are in the team, and where do I meet them?" he asked. "This team will have three members, including yourself," Leon replied, glancing at his watch. "It''s still pretty early, so you¡¯ve got about two hours before the call time for this Echo. You¡¯ll meet your team right here in the lobby. Basically, how these guild-formed groups work is we pair you based on the mana signatures we gathered during your registration. This helps us designate roles to balance the team. After forming the group, you¡¯ll all meet at a designated spot here in the lobby." Leon gestured toward a section near the front. "See that area? The signs there will update with the names and slots for the Echoes being delved. Your slot is for the Dusk Caverns at Slot Three." "Never heard of it," Colm admitted with a sheepish shrug. "As I suspected," Leon chuckled. "It¡¯s common knowledge to locals, but your other team members should know where it is and can guide you. I think that covers the basics.¡± "Wonderful. Thank you so much, Leon. I really appreciate it," Colm said sincerely. "I think I¡¯ll head to the training room and practice a bit before my team shows up. Could you point me to where that is?" "Certainly, it¡¯s actually down the same hall where you found the library but it¡¯s the door at the very end," Leon said with a nod and a friendly smile. "Good luck out there, Colm. If you have any other questions please don''t hesitate to ask."
Colm practically sprinted to the training room, excitement bubbling inside him at the thought of testing his new attunement abilities and improved class powers. Before he knew it, he was already at the door. As he pushed it open, his eyes widened at the sight before him. The room was massive¡ªfar larger than the building should have allowed. There¡¯s no way this is natural, he thought. Dimensional magic, maybe? It has to be. The hum of battle drew his attention to the sparring arenas scattered throughout the room. Flashes of fire and streaks of lightning lit up the space as adventurers tested their might against one another, their skills on full display. Off to the side, Colm spotted an empty cove with a row of stationary training dummies. A small plaque on the wall read, Combat Dummy. Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. With a shrug, he stepped into the space. ¡°Guess this is the place to practice,¡± he muttered to himself. Before beginning, Colm took a deep breath and summoned his abilities¡¯ description, eager to review his abilities one more time. Let¡¯s review what I¡¯m working with, he thought, a grin spreading across his face. [ Rising Current (Level 1) The tide surges with your movements. Your steps leave rippling waves of water in their wake, increasing your movement speed while slowing enemies who pass through them. Standing within these waves restores a small amount of health and mana over time. Wavebound Surge (Level 1) Mana: 50 Cooldown: 20 Seconds Channel the power of the tide, sending out a surging wave in a cone in front of you. The wave deals moderate damage to all enemies hit and knocks them back. If standing in Rising Current, the wave becomes empowered, causing increased damage and slowing all enemies hit for 3 seconds. Active Ability: Phantom Warrior (Tier 2, Level 2) Mana: 25% of your total mana Summon a single empowered spectral warrior, a stronger and more resilient manifestation of the spirit realm. Only one Phantom Warrior can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current warrior. The Phantom Warrior can now use Ripping Cleave. Ripping Cleave causes the warrior''s blade to glow blue and unleashes a sweeping strike that cleaves through multiple enemies in a cone-shaped area, dealing 150% weapon damage. This attack applies a Spectral Rend debuff, causing enemies hit to take additional damage over 5 seconds. Ripping Cleave has a cooldown of 30 seconds. Tide Attunement Effect: Ripping Cleave now generates a crashing wave of water that travels 5 feet beyond its initial cone range, dealing 30% additional splash damage to enemies caught in its path and knocks them back. Enemies hit are Drenched, increasing the damage they take from all sources by 10% for 4 seconds. Active Ability: Phantom Spearman (Level 10) Mana: 25 Summon a single spectral spearman to aid you in combat, who wields a long spear and is effective for keeping enemies at a distance. The Spearman delivers powerful thrusts that can push back enemies, making it useful for maintaining control over the battlefield. Only one Phantom Spearman can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current Spearman. Tide Attunement Effect: Each thrust from the Phantom Spearman generates a wave of water that pulses outward in a small area. The wave deals minor splash damage to nearby enemies and restores a small amount of Colm¡¯s mana when it hits. Active Ability: Phantom Archer (Level 10) Mana: 25 Summons a spectral archer equipped with a longbow, capable of firing precise, ethereal arrows. The arrows deal moderate damage and can pierce through multiple enemies in a line. Only one Phantom Archer can be summoned at a time; attempting to summon another will replace the current Archer. Tide Attunement Effect: Arrows fired by the Phantom Archer leave a trail of Rising Current in their wake for 6 seconds. Enemies hit are Drenched, increasing the damage they take from all sources by 10% for 4 seconds. Passive Ability: Lingering Vitality (Tier 2, Level 10) Your connection to the spirit realm has deepened, allowing its energy to sustain you with unparalleled strength. Rapidly regenerate health when out of combat. Slowly regenerate health during combat. Tide Attunement Effect: While standing in water, or the waves generated by your abilities, Lingering Vitality¡¯s combat regeneration increases by an additional 40%. Passive Ability: Spectral Persistence (Level 10) A phantom¡¯s duty never ends. When destroyed, a phantom lingers briefly as an invulnerable spectral remnant, dealing 40% of its original damage over 8 seconds before fading completely. Tide Attunement Effect: While the phantom lingers, it unleashes Surging Ripples¡ªperiodic bursts of water every 2 seconds in a 5-foot radius around its position. Each ripple deals damage to all enemies caught in its radius and applies a Drenched debuff, increasing the damage they take from all sources by 10% for 4 seconds. Passive Ability: Phantom Sacrifice (Level 10) When you take fatal damage, your nearest active phantom absorbs the blow, sacrificing itself to save you. The phantom is destroyed, and you are left with 30% of your maximum health. Requires at least one phantom to be active and has a 15-minute cooldown and the sacrificed phantom cannot be summoned during the cooldown duration. Tide Attunement Effect: Upon activation of Phantom Sacrifice, a wave of restorative water surges outward in a 10-foot radius. This wave restores 15% of Colm¡¯s mana and grants him a Flowing Resilience buff, reducing incoming damage by 15% for 60 seconds. ] Colm let out a sharp whistle as he reviewed his abilities. ¡°Alright, first up: Rising Current,¡± he muttered. With a thought, he activated the ability. Immediately, he felt a subtle pull, and waves began forming around his feet, rippling outward like miniature tides. Fascinated, he began walking around the room, marveling as the puddles trailed seamlessly behind him. They don¡¯t hinder my movement at all, he thought. This is amazing. Stopping in place, he watched the puddles slowly fade away. It looks like they only appear while I¡¯m moving. If I stay stationary, nothing forms. Good to know. His attention turned to Wavebound Surge next. Reading the ability¡¯s description, he noted that it could be empowered while standing in a Rising Current. Alright, let¡¯s test both scenarios, he decided, approaching one of the combat dummies. Steadying his breath, he waited for the puddle beneath him to dissipate before activating the ability. He raised his arm instinctively, and with a surge of mana, a wave materialized out of thin air. It crashed forward with incredible force, completely enveloping the target dummy before fading into nothing a few feet beyond. ¡°Holy shit,¡± Colm whispered, his awe spilling into a cackle of laughter. ¡°I can control water.¡± He estimated the wave traveled about fifteen feet¡ªa decent range for keeping enemies at a distance. After letting the ability¡¯s cooldown reset, Colm took a few steps to trigger the Rising Current beneath him. Standing in the rippling puddle, he repeated the same motion, activating Wavebound Surge once more. This time, the wave surged with a fierce, almost violent intensity, roaring as it slammed into the dummy with an audible crash. Droplets sprayed everywhere before disappearing entirely, leaving no trace behind. ¡°Incredible,¡± Colm muttered, watching the display in awe. He spent the next while practicing with both abilities, ensuring their usage became second nature. Satisfied with his progress, he shifted his focus to testing his active class abilities. Summoning his Phantom Warrior, Colm watched as the familiar figure materialized before him. This time, however, the process was different. Instead of forming as a swirl of white energy, it appeared as droplets of water pooling and merging together. When the summoning completed, Carver stood tall, his new form glistening like a figure sculpted from translucent water. Droplets cascaded from his body, hitting the ground only to vanish instantly. ¡°Amazing,¡± Colm whispered, feeling an unexpected sense of safety in the presence of his ally. Curious, he commanded Carver to attack the training dummy. The phantom moved forward, its blade raised high. Colm noted the transformation¡ªthe once spectral weapon now shimmered, gleaming with a sheen of flowing water. As the blade struck the dummy, a loud thunk echoed through the room, accompanied by a splash of water that dispersed without a trace. When Colm instructed Carver to use Ripping Cleave, the phantom¡¯s blade began glowing with an eerie blue light. As it slashed downward, a torrent of water erupted from the strike, crashing through the dummy and extending a few feet beyond. Colm couldn¡¯t suppress his excitement. ¡°This is amazing,¡± he muttered, grinning ear to ear. He spent the next hour testing his other phantoms, growing more impressed with each one. Lance, the Phantom Spearman, wielded his weapon with precision, and his strikes sent faint ripples of water through the ground. Robin, the Phantom Archer, stood out in particular. Her arrows left trails of water, creating a web of Rising Current across the field. This could be incredible for controlling the battlefield, Colm thought, already strategizing ways to use her abilities in combat. Feeling satisfied with his training session, Colm dismissed his phantoms. Glancing at a familiar clock-shaped rune on the wall, he realized it was time to meet his teammates for the day. His nerves hummed with anticipation as he made his way to the exit. Chapter 47: Meeting the Team As Colm made his way back to the lobby, a simmering excitement began to bubble within him. After spending so much time running, surviving, and learning, he was eager to dive back into combat and test the limits of his new attunement. The guild¡¯s atmosphere had shifted from the quiet of the early morning to a lively buzz of activity. Adventurers filled the space, their chatter blending with the clinking of weapons and the rustle of parchment. Colm glanced toward the sign for his assigned Echo, Dusk Caverns, Slot 3, but no one else had arrived yet. Shrugging, he wandered and explored the guild¡¯s central area while he waited. At the back of the lobby, Colm looked at the job board again¡ªa sprawling collection of flyers neatly organized by tier. Curious, he stepped closer and browsed the Tier 1 postings. Most of them seemed mundane: helping on farms, guard patrols, escorting supply wagons. "Guess they don¡¯t want rookies biting off more than they can chew," he muttered, mildly amused at the lack of combat-oriented options. Moving on, he drifted toward the tavern. The rich aroma of stew wafted through the air, making his stomach growl despite knowing he didn¡¯t need food. His mouth watered as he eyed patrons hungrily devouring bowls of the hearty dish. First payday, he promised himself. That stew is mine. His wanderings brought him to the heart of the lobby, where the lines at the reception desks had grown considerably. Leon was busy handling a queue of adventurers, his easy demeanor barely hiding the strain of the workload. Clerks at neighboring counters handled their own swath of visitors with equal efficiency. Several hallways led deeper into the guild, but Colm opted to stay close to the lobby instead of venturing too far. Eventually, he returned to the sign marked Dusk Caverns, Slot 3. Conveniently placed chairs surrounded the waiting area, and Colm sank into one. With nothing else to occupy his time, he skimmed through his abilities and status. He felt a flicker of pride looking at his progress. I want to be stronger, he thought, his jaw setting with determination. I never want to feel weak or powerless again. I¡¯ve come too far to lose myself again. No more despair. No more running. I finally feel alive. But the weight of loss still lingered. His thoughts drifted to her. The ache was still there, but it was becoming more bearable with each passing day. I miss you, he reflected, but I¡¯ll keep moving forward. So lost in his thoughts, Colm didn¡¯t notice the shadow looming over him until a firm tap on his shoulder jolted him back to the present. Startled, he looked up to see two figures standing above him, an unreadable expression on their faces. * * * ¡°You ready for the delve today, sis?¡± Luke asked, glancing over his shoulder as they made their way toward the guild. ¡°Of course I¡¯m ready!¡± Tessa huffed, a hint of irritation in her voice. ¡°We¡¯ve gone through the Dusk Caverns so many times, I could do it in my sleep. I just can¡¯t believe we¡¯re still stuck fighting the same damn bugs over and over.¡± Luke chuckled, trying to lighten the mood with some laughter. ¡°Just a few more days of this, and we¡¯ll finally have enough funds to move on like we planned.¡± Tessa sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. ¡°I know, I know. It¡¯s just frustrating. I¡¯m so tired of running the same Echo over and over. We haven¡¯t gained any levels in a while now. And Frank bailing on us? That¡¯s what really pisses me off. I just hope whoever the guild pairs us with can actually pull their weight.¡± Laughing, Luke nodded. ¡°Yeah, Frank¡¯s officially on my blacklist. I hope we never see that guy again. Bastard left us high and dry just because he didn¡¯t want to do another couple of days. What an ass.¡± The siblings weaved through the crowded street, the bustling sounds of Brimhope surrounding them. As the adventurer¡¯s guild finally came into view, Luke crossed his arms. ¡°I still can¡¯t believe he ditched us. Frank was strong, you know? He held the front line like a pro. He really paired well with your agility, too.¡± ¡°I know, right?¡± Tessa threw her hands up in exasperation. ¡°Between his defenses and my speed, we could slice through those damn bugs like they were nothing. Now we¡¯re stuck hoping our new teammate is half as capable.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry,¡± Luke said with a small grin as they stepped up to the guild¡¯s entrance. ¡°Let¡¯s go find whoever the guild stuck us with. Hopefully, they can hold their own for the next few days.¡± ¡°Fingers crossed,¡± Tessa muttered, pushing the heavy doors open. As the duo stepped inside, they were immediately met with the bustling energy of the guild. Adventurers hurriedly grabbed jobs off the notice board, some loudly haggling with clerks over pay, while others swapped stories or made last-minute preparations for their delves. Their eyes drifted to the Echo slots near the entrance, where they noticed someone already sitting in a chair under the sign for Slot 3. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ¡°Looks like he¡¯s already here,¡± Tessa said, nodding toward the figure. Luke tilted his head, studying the man. ¡°He looks interesting,¡± he mused. ¡°I wonder what kind of abilities he has to pair with us? Those glowing veins along his skin are definitely unique. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever seen anything like that before.¡± ¡°Hopefully, it means he¡¯s capable,¡± Tessa muttered as she adjusted her gear and started walking toward him. She activated Analyze, her gaze narrowing as she prepared to assess their new teammate. Colm (Level 60) - Morvyn Tessa¡¯s step faltered as she tugged on Luke¡¯s arm, her voice dropping to a cautious whisper. ¡°Have you heard of a Morvyn before?¡± Luke frowned, rubbing the back of his neck. ¡°I think I¡¯ve seen the term in some library documents, but I¡¯m not too familiar. I think they¡¯re something like undead, but not quite. Should we bail and ask for a new member? It¡¯s eerie to be grouped with such an unknown.¡± Tessa hesitated, her eyes narrowing as she studied Colm from a distance. After a moment, she shook her head. ¡°I think we should just go for it. He doesn¡¯t seem hostile¡ªhonestly, he hasn¡¯t even noticed us staring at him for the past few minutes. He¡¯s around our level, too, so he could be a good temporary fill-in. Besides, the guild¡¯s matchmaking system is pretty solid. It hasn¡¯t let us down before.¡± Luke nodded, though his expression remained wary. ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. Let¡¯s go introduce ourselves.¡± As the duo approached Colm, Luke cleared his throat loudly to catch his attention, but Colm remained oblivious, lost in thought. After a few moments, Tessa stepped forward and tapped him on the shoulder. ¡°Hey there,¡± she said, her voice light but firm, breaking him from his reverie. * * * Colm blinked, startled, as he snapped out of his thoughts and looked up to see two figures standing over him. He hadn¡¯t even noticed their approach, and the realization made him feel slightly self-conscious. Quickly gathering himself, he cleared his throat and stood, brushing off the momentary awkwardness. ¡°Ah, sorry about that,¡± he said, offering a small smile. ¡°I didn¡¯t realize how lost in thought I was.¡± His gaze flicked between the two. ¡°I take it you¡¯re my teammates for the Echo?¡± As he spoke, he noted their striking similarities¡ªboth had blonde hair and lean yet strong builds that gave off an air of confidence. Curious, he activated Analyze to learn more while waiting for their response. Luke (Level 62) - Human Tessa (Level 60) - Human The duo exchanged a glance before Luke stepped forward and spoke. ¡°That¡¯s right. Our last member dropped out on pretty short notice, so the guild matched us up with you. Hope that works for you. We¡¯re planning to run this Echo a few more times to top off our funds. If things go well and we all mesh, we¡¯d definitely ask you to join us for a few more delves¡ªif you¡¯re interested.¡± Colm nodded at the pair, his gaze steady. ¡°That sounds good to me. I¡¯m a bit new to town and the guild, so I might need a hand getting up to speed on some of the basics¡ªlike where this Echo even is. But I¡¯m a quick learner, and I¡¯d be happy to stick with you for a few more delves if we work well together.¡± Extending his hand, he introduced himself. ¡°I¡¯m Colm Arden. Nice to meet you both.¡± Luke clasped his hand firmly, grinning as he motioned toward his companion. ¡°I¡¯m Luke Bryn, and this is my little sister.¡± Tessa hesitated for a moment before stepping forward. With a brief, somewhat guarded shake, she introduced herself. ¡°Tessa Bryn.¡± ¡°Before we head out to the Echo, we should probably discuss our combat specialties,¡± Luke said, taking the lead as they talked. ¡°I¡¯m more of a caster type,¡± he continued, ¡°focused on pure damage. Tessa here is quick on her feet and specializes in precise, hit-and-run strikes to wear enemies down. Neither of us is really suited to hold the front line for long, so we¡¯re guessing that¡¯s where you come in. What¡¯s your role, Colm?¡± Colm paused, processing Luke¡¯s words. Did the guild pair us like this on purpose? he thought. How much does the guild really know about me? How much detail did that crystal know when I registered? He filed the thought away for later, refocusing on Luke. ¡°I guess you could say I can handle the frontline, though not directly,¡± Colm began. ¡°I¡¯m a summoner, and my phantoms do most of the heavy lifting for me. I stay back while they handle the fighting up close. They¡¯re pretty reliable in combat.¡± Tessa perked up at this. ¡°A summoner, huh? Interesting. We¡¯ve never grouped with one before. What are your phantoms like?¡± Colm glanced at her, quickly recalling Jerry¡¯s warning about standing out too much. Deciding to downplay his capabilities for now, he said, ¡°I¡¯ve got two phantoms¡ªa warrior and a spearman. They handle the frontline while I keep my distance. I don¡¯t have much in the way of ranged support yet, so I¡¯m glad to have you onboard, Luke.¡± Tessa waved dismissively. ¡°That works for us. We¡¯re a team for now, so we¡¯ll help each other out. But let me be clear¡ªthe Echo is dangerous. I¡¯m sure you already know that, given you¡¯re sign up to be an adventurer, but I don¡¯t want any misunderstandings. If it ever comes down to choosing between you or my brother, I¡¯m saving him every time.¡± Luke nodded in agreement and added, ¡°Exactly. We¡¯re just emphasizing that this isn¡¯t a game. We could die in there, and no one would remember our names. It¡¯s serious, so if you¡¯re not ready for this, now¡¯s the time to back out. The guild paired us up for a reason, but we¡¯re still strangers putting our lives on the line here.¡± Colm took their words to heart, nodding solemnly. ¡°I understand,¡± he replied firmly. Luke smiled. ¡°Good. Now that¡¯s out of the way, get your gear sorted, and we¡¯ll head out.¡± Colm hesitated, glancing down at his worn clothes. ¡°Uh, well¡­ this is all I¡¯ve got on me,¡± he said, gesturing at himself. Luke and Tessa stared at him, their expressions incredulous. Colm quickly added, ¡°It¡¯s a long story, but don¡¯t worry¡ªmy phantoms can handle themselves, and I¡¯m pretty durable. That¡¯s why I need to do some delving. I need the money.¡± The siblings exchanged a glance, sighing in unison. ¡°Great,¡± Tessa muttered under her breath. Luke waved him along. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s head out. The Echo is just outside the city walls, near some rocky terrain. Stick close and let¡¯s hope this works out.¡± With that, the trio began their journey toward the exit. Colm, despite his lack of proper gear, couldn¡¯t help but feel a surge of excitement. He was ready to see where the road would lead. Chapter 48: Making Friends The trio walked through the bustling streets, Colm falling into step behind Luke and Tessa. As they moved, Colm broke the silence. ¡°How long have you two been adventurers?¡± he asked, glancing at Tessa. She looked over her shoulder at him and, after a brief pause, replied, ¡°About three years, give or take. We started out much like you¡ªneeded the gold, but we¡¯ve also come to appreciate getting stronger and being able to help people.¡± She shrugged as if it was all just part of the job. Luke chuckled at that. ¡°Oh, sure. The money¡¯s great, no denying it. And we both needed it at the time.¡± Shifting the topic, he turned his gaze to Colm. ¡°You mentioned you were new to Brimhope? What brought you here?¡± Colm hesitated, considering how much he should share. Remembering Jerry¡¯s advice to keep his cards close to his chest, he chose his words carefully. ¡°It¡¯s a bit of a long story,¡± he began. ¡°I¡¯m not from around here, and whether it was luck or misfortune¡ªdepends on who you ask¡ªI ended up in Brimhope a few days ago. I¡¯ve been trying to get my bearings since. The guard at the gate mentioned the Adventurer''s Guild and suggested I speak to Jerry for some guidance. Luckily, I found him, and he spent a couple of days teaching me some basics I was missing.¡± Tessa¡¯s step faltered slightly, and she exchanged a glance with her brother before speaking, her tone incredulous. ¡°You got to talk to Jerry? Jerry Lorn? And not just talk¡ªhe taught you? Personally? What the hell did you say to him?¡± Colm blinked, surprised by her reaction. ¡°Yeah, Jerry Lorn. Honestly, I just told him the truth about how I ended up here. He seemed more than willing to help. Sure, he came off a bit gruff at first, but he wasn¡¯t bad once we got talking.¡± Luke let out a hearty laugh, wiping a tear from his eye as he added, ¡°That¡¯s wild. You don¡¯t get it, do you? Jerry¡¯s a bit of a legend around here. One of the strongest people in Brimhope¡ªmaybe even this whole isle. The guy¡¯s a monster. Most of his time these days is spent writing those books of his, and let me tell you, those books are invaluable. He rarely talks to anyone, let alone tutors them personally. You must¡¯ve really caught his interest.¡± Realizing how fortunate he was, Colm rubbed the back of his neck, a sheepish grin tugging at his lips. ¡°I guess I didn¡¯t fully realize how important he was. I knew he was strong, but it didn¡¯t really hit me.¡± The trio continued down the bustling streets, chatting and learning more about one another. Colm felt genuinely happy for the first time in what felt like ages. It¡¯s really nice to feel like I¡¯m making friends, free from the burdens of my past, he thought, a small smile creeping onto his face. As they talked, Colm learned Luke was a mage specializing in long-range fire attacks, while Tessa wielded dual short swords, her strikes blindingly fast. She casually mentioned using poisons to slow her enemies, which got Colm wondering about his Poison Resistance skill. Would it help me against her toxins? he mused. Colm? shared a bit about his abilities. He described his Phantom Spearman and Phantom Warrior, though he kept the Phantom Archer to himself for now. As their discussion shifted to abilities and combat strategies, Colm¡¯s mind wandered to class tiers. I wonder if Luke and Tessa have lower-tier classes than mine? He thought, pondering how it might affect their performance in the Echo. Could I end up being too strong for this Echo? Hoping to shift the topic and learn more, Colm asked, ¡°Is it common for people here to talk about their class tiers?¡± Luke answered with a nod. ¡°Not really. Most folks keep that info to themselves. But anyone with Analyze at Tier 2 can see your class, and if there¡¯s a record of it, they can usually figure out the tier. That¡¯s why some people pay enchanters to craft talismans that obscure their Analyze results. It¡¯s all about privacy.¡± ¡°That makes sense. Thanks for explaining,¡± Colm replied, filing the information away for later. The conversation quieted for a bit as they neared the city gates. Luke broke the silence, turning to Colm. ¡°Alright, once we¡¯re outside the city, we¡¯ll pick up the pace and jog to the Echo entrance. It¡¯s not far. When we get there, expect to wait in line for a bit while other groups phase in. Once it¡¯s our turn, we¡¯ll rely on your phantoms to hold the front line.¡± Colm blinked, confused. ¡°Wait¡ªline? Phasing? What does that mean?¡± Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. Luke sighed, his demeanor dropping slightly at Colm¡¯s cluelessness. ¡°Okay, here¡¯s the deal. Echoes are in high demand. They¡¯re prime training grounds for adventurers and a great source of crafting materials. But they don¡¯t let everyone in at once. When a group phases into the Echo, they¡¯re essentially entering their own version of it¡ªlike a private instance. ¡°We wait a few minutes after the group ahead of us phases in to avoid overlap. If two groups enter the same instance, it gets messy. Loot gets shared, and no one likes that. Worse, if you¡¯re lost, injured, or killed in your phase, no one¡¯s coming to save you. It¡¯s just you and your group in there. If someone finds your body, it¡¯ll be because your phase got recycled after a while.¡± Colm nodded, keeping his composure despite the ominous explanation. ¡°Got it. That does sound a bit scary, but thanks for the heads-up. I¡¯m ready.¡± As the trio stepped through the gates, Colm glanced at the guards. He didn¡¯t see Joss, which left him feeling slightly disappointed¡ªhe¡¯d wanted to thank her for her advice. Shaking off the thought, he followed Luke and Tessa as they started jogging toward the Echo entrance, his heart beating with a mix of anticipation and excitement.
Colm kept the pace effortlessly with Luke and Tessa. This is actually much slower than the pace I kept when escaping the forest, he thought, wondering if they were holding back for him. His mind wandered, imagining the comfort of a room in the city. A nap sounds amazing, he mused with a silent chuckle, even though his new body no longer required sleep. As they traveled further north, the terrain gradually shifted into rocky outcroppings. Luke veered off the main path, leading them into a narrower trail, with Tessa close behind. After a few more minutes, Tessa spoke up, ¡°We¡¯re almost there, just a bit further, and we¡¯ll be at the entrance.¡± Colm nodded, keeping pace, and before long, they began seeing other groups of adventurers heading in the same direction. ¡°Looks like there¡¯s more people coming,¡± Colm remarked. ¡°Yeah,¡± Luke replied nonchalantly. ¡°This is a good Echo to farm¡ªthose bugs are easy to deal with, and with its low tier, it¡¯s relatively safe. All the monsters are tier 1, so as long as no one gets careless, it¡¯s pretty manageable.¡± Tessa chimed in, ¡°It also helps that the bugs¡¯ corpses have good utility for alchemy and other crafts. We usually harvest the most valuable parts and end up with a decent haul.¡± Colm nodded, taking it in. ¡°Are all the creatures in here bugs?¡± Tessa nodded, ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s all bugs. The Echo¡¯s theme is a cave system crawling with the same kind. Most are about this high,¡± she said, motioning her hand low to the ground. Colm visualized the size, thinking, Okay, about the size of a medium dog back on Earth. Good to know. ¡°How do you both harvest them?¡± Luke chuckled, ¡°Man, you¡¯re asking a lot of questions. Not that I mind, but it¡¯s stuff most people already know.¡± He grinned before continuing, ¡°It¡¯s a manual process for us. After we kill them, we go for the valuable parts¡ªmandibles, glands, carapace segments, stuff like that. Some people bring back whole bodies in storage items, but those things are pricey. We¡¯ve been saving up for one, but for now, it¡¯s all hands-on.¡± Colm gave a sheepish smile. ¡°Yeah, things were a lot different back where I came from. I really appreciate you two helping me out so much already.¡± Luke shrugged, giving him an easy smile. ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. We¡¯re all in the guild, so it¡¯s our job to help each other. And hey, maybe someday, you¡¯ll return the favor.¡± Colm thanked them for the information as they continued, and soon a line of adventurers came into view, stretching toward a shimmering portal in the distance. ¡°I take it that¡¯s the entrance?¡± Colm asked. ¡°Yep,¡± Luke said. ¡°Not too many people today, so we shouldn¡¯t have to wait long.¡± The trio joined the end of the line, waiting as the groups ahead phased into the Echo one by one. Colm watched with growing anticipation, the shimmering portal drawing his focus as adventurers disappeared through it. After some time, Tessa nudged him and said, ¡°Alright, we¡¯re next. You¡¯ll need to show your adventurer¡¯s badge to the guard on duty. Then we¡¯ll head in.¡± Colm quickly retrieved his badge from his pocket, while Luke and Tessa did the same. As the group in front of them entered the Echo, the trio stepped up to the guard. Luke greeted him casually. ¡°Hey there. How¡¯s it been so far?¡± ¡°Not too bad,¡± the guard replied. ¡°Pretty slow day, which makes my job easier. Badges, please.¡± ¡°Sure thing,¡± Luke said, handing over his badge. The guard inspected it, squinting briefly before nodding. ¡°You¡¯re good.¡± The guard repeated the process with Tessa, and finally with Colm. He handed his badge over, watching as the guard scrutinized it, and briefly narrowed his eyes at him before saying, ¡°You¡¯re all set. Good luck in there, and be safe.¡± He waved them through as the next group moved up in line. Colm glanced at Luke and Tessa, uncertain about the guard¡¯s inspection. Tessa noticed his hesitation and explained, ¡°He was checking your mana signature against your badge to confirm who you are. The guild¡¯s pretty thorough about that. These badges are convenient, though¡ªit¡¯s like your adventurer¡¯s ID. Ready to go?¡± Colm turned his gaze toward the Echo portal, only now realizing how similar it looked to the one he encountered at the Lucent Grove. It was smaller and less vivid but still mesmerizing. Swirls of energy folded in on themselves, the portal shimmering like liquid air suspended in time. Tessa¡¯s question finally registered. ¡°Yeah,¡± he said with a nod. The trio faced the portal together, taking a collective breath. Then, without hesitation, they stepped into the rift.