《LitRPG : My Class, Battlemage》 Chapter 1 : The Weakened Chapter 1 : The Weakened Noah, his face looking solemn unlike usual, stood before the towering form of the Weakened Cosmic Watcher. The boss monster loomed over him, its otherworldly presence radiating an aura of power and malevolence. This was one of the hardest battles Noah had ever faced, and he knew that victory would not come easily. Unlike previous encounters, Noah couldn''t afford a moment of complacency in this fight. The Weakened Cosmic Watcher demanded his full attention, its attacks swift and unforgiving. He could ill afford a single misstep, for the consequences would be dire. The battle had begun in earnest. Noah swiftly weaved multiple combos of skills, magnifying the elements to unleash devastating attacks. Fireballs erupted from his fingertips, scorching the air as they collided with the Watcher''s ethereal form. Lightning crackled, arcing across the battlefield, and icy shards formed a protective barrier around Noah. Though the Weakened Cosmic Watcher was not taking it at face value. Its arsenal of abilities fought Noah''s every move. It unleashed cosmic projectiles that sought him out with unerring accuracy. Eruptions of cosmic energy rocked the ground, threatening to knock him off balance and out cold. Noah''s health dwindled with each passing moment. He danced between life and death, his body instinctively dodging in every jump, his senses attuned to the ebb and flow of the battle. He dove into his reserves of mana, skillfully managing his resources to keep up with the relentless onslaught. The Weakened Cosmic Watcher stood as the ultimate test, the final trial of this monumental quest. The monster possessed a multitude of tricks and techniques, designed to confound and overwhelm even the most experienced players. Its attacks were swift and devastating, requiring Noah to be constantly on guard, ready to react with split-second timing. Noah had meticulously prepared for this encounter. He had studied the boss monster''s patterns, learned its weaknesses, and devised a strategy that capitalized on his unique class abilities. He knew that brute force alone would not do it, he needed finesse, precision, and basically perfect maneuvers. ¡°Come¡­!¡± As the battle commenced yet again, Noah''s heart raced. He swiftly employed his repertoire of skills, combining offensive spells with defensive strats. Elemental blasts seared through the air, striking the Watcher''s weakened form. Healing reservoirs mended his wounds, allowing him to endure the relentless assault. The monster retaliated with a barrage of devastating attacks, each strike threatening to overwhelm Noah. But he anticipated the onslaught, dodging and countering with unparalleled agility. He exploited the Watcher''s vulnerabilities, exploiting its moments of weakness to deliver crushing blows. To turn the tide, Noah employed a myriad of skills at his disposal. He conjured a blazing Flame Wave, engulfing the Watcher in a torrent of fire. The boss recoiled, momentarily stunned, allowing Noah to seize the opportunity and unleash a devastating Frost Blast, tearing through the creature''s defenses. Yet, the Weakened Cosmic Watcher was relentless. It struck back with ethereal chains that ensnared Noah, draining his strength with each millisecond. He fought against the constricting grip, breaking free with a bursting energy. ¡°Just a bit more¡­¡± The battle raged on, the clash of opposing might echoing through the air. Noah wove spells of destruction and protection, seamlessly transitioning between offense and defense. Time seemed to blur as Noah''s body strained under the relentless assault. His health dwindled to a critical level, his every action demanding precision and swift decision-making. He could even taste the looming specter of defeat¡­ ¡°Tempestuous Thunderstorm¡­¡± With sheer momentum, Noah rallied one more time. He unleashed a spell he had held in reserve, a culmination of his cards and power. He called forth a high skill, bolts of lightning cascading upon the Watcher, momentarily staggering its movements. A surge of arcane energy enveloped him, empowering his attacks. Bolstered by this newfound strength, he launched a devastating assault, his spells merging in a cacophony of destruction. ¡­ Time stretched into what felt like an eternity as Noah continued on to battle the Weakened Cosmic Watcher. ¡°Skypoint¡­¡± With a small whisper, Noah unleashed a skill on his sharp looking staff, seemingly a convergence of raw magic and ethereal energy.If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Krrshhhs It pierced through the Watcher''s defenses, shattering its weakened form. The monster let out a deafening roar, its body started to bend down. Krakkkkcc ¡°......¡± Silence descended upon the battlefield as the body of the Weakened Cosmic Watcher crumbled. Noah stood with a slight waver, his heart pounding¡­ With exhilaration and satisfaction... He had done it. He had overcome the greatest challenge of his gaming journey thus far. ¡°Haaa¡­.¡± As he caught his breath, a wave of accomplishment washed over Noah. The sacrifices he had made, the struggles he had endured, and the countless hours he had poured into this quest¡ªall had culminated in this moment of triumph. Bragk ¡°Hahah¡­ Ahaha¡­¡± He fell to his back, laughter bubbling from his lips. The prior quests had led him to this climactic battle, a culmination of trials and tribulations. The Weakened Cosmic Watcher had been defeated. Finally... The path that led Noah to this moment had been arduous. Countless quests, clues, intrigues¡­ He had traversed treacherous landscapes, battled ferocious foes, and solved intricate puzzles. The journey had been long and fraught with nightmarish difficulty But Noah persevered¡­ And his dedication had also come at a cost. As other players surged ahead, claiming noble titles, acquiring legendary equipment, and other high status things, Noah remained focused on this elusive endeavor. He had sacrificed opportunities and watched as his peers surpassed him, their achievements leaving him in their dust. Yet, he never wavered in his pursuit. The trigger quest itself was shrouded in mystery, its rarity unknown. Noah had poured hours, days, and weeks, months, years into its completion. It demanded not only skill and strategy, determination was the biggest factor one could say. The quest had tested his limits, other players might be brought to the brink of exhaustion and frustration if they were in his shoes. But Noah refused to yield¡­ After solving the trigger quest, he then was granted with some silver coins and that''s it. He was dumbfounded at first but he believed that this unknown rarity quest had something behind. That was why he embarked on a journey to unmask the reason behind it. And the price, was that he was left behind his peers, as described. Noah, still relishing in the triumph of his hard-fought victory, stood amidst the aftermath of the battle. A victorious smile still graced his lips as he brushed the remnants of dust and debris from his armor. "Open status," Noah uttered. In an instant, a holographic interface materialized before him, displaying his detailed status. - Name: Demerit Liberty - Class: Battle Mage - Level: 30 - Health Points (HP): 103/12,500 - Mana Points (MP): 211/9,800 - Experience Points (EXP): 22,730/30,000 Noah''s gaze shifted to the experience bar, a visual representation of his progress toward the next level. He sighed helplessly as he didn''t expect that killing the Weakened Cosmic Watcher didn''t give him any experience. He wanted to ponder about it, but he decided to do that later. The status interface revealed additional attributes that defined Noah''s capabilities. ¡­ - Strength: 35 - Dexterity: 28 - Intelligence: 48 - Vitality: 32 - Agility: 25 ¡­ Noah''s focus turned to his skills. The Battle Mage possessed a wide range of abilities, each honed through countless battles and arduous training. His current skill set included:
  1. Fireball: Hurl a sphere of intense flames at the target, causing moderate fire damage. Mana Consumption: 80. Cooldown: 2 seconds.
  2. Lightning Bolt: Summon a bolt of lightning from the heavens, striking the enemy with a jolt of electrical energy. Mana Consumption: 120. Cooldown: 4 seconds.
  3. Ice Barrier: Form a protective shield of ice around yourself, reducing incoming damage by 20% for 8 seconds. Mana Consumption: 150. Cooldown: 12 seconds.
  4. Arcane Blast: Unleash a concentrated blast of arcane energy, piercing through enemy defenses and inflicting heavy damage. Mana Consumption: 200. Cooldown: 6 seconds.
  5. Mana Surge: Tap into your inner reserves, restoring 300 mana points instantly. Mana Consumption: None. Cooldown: 60 seconds.
  6. Flame Wave: Create a wave of intense flames that rushes forward, scorching enemies in its path. Mana Consumption: 150. Cooldown: 8 seconds.
  7. Frost Marks: Imbue your attacks with a chilling effect, slowing enemy movement speed by 30% for 4 seconds. Mana Consumption: 100. Cooldown: 4 seconds.
  8. ....
.... Noah''s eyes sparkled with contentment as he observed his progress and the skills at his disposal. Each ability represented his strats and adaptation at his disposal. He had developed a deep understanding of his class, where he could be exploiting its strengths and employing strategies to overcome general enemies while also particular ones. Closing the status interface, Noah let out a contented sigh. The thrill of the battle still lingered. The end of the clue of the countless clues that he had progressed up to this point¡­ For years¡­! Finally! Chapter 2 : Not Gone Chapter 2 : Not Gone With the Weakened Cosmic Watcher vanquished, Rylan calmly approached the scattered loot left in the wake of the epic battle after he had calmed himself down. The spoils of victory glimmered before him as a mesmerizing array of treasures waiting to be claimed. Among the spoils, his gaze fixated on a particular item¡ªa fragmented piece of equipment. ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± As he picked up the fragmented ring, a holographic interface materialized, revealing the details of the intriguing artifact: ¡­ - Name: Ring of Wonder (Fragmented, can be upgraded) - Rarity: Unique - Attribute: Luck +70 ¡­ The information revealed that the ring had once belonged to an entity known as Nufisar¡ªa name long forgotten in the annals of time. Its rarity and the attribute it bestowed upon the wearer would very well make it a highly coveted item. "Luck attributes!" Rylan shouted out loud. Luck attributes were exceedingly rare and sought after, capable of turning the tides of socalled fortune in one''s favor. Rylan knew that an item of this caliber could bring about a frenzy among players and even ignite a war between guilds. Its acquisition could potentially alter the balance of power, providing significant advantages to those who possessed it. Even when it was still in an imperfect condition, it still brought a lot of luck attributes.... However, the circumstances surrounding this encounter was in a deeper layer of complexity. The battle with the Weakened Celestial Watcher had taken place in a restricted map, accessible only to low-level players. While others had long surpassed Rylan''s level of 30 and moved on to higher leveled areas, he found himself caught in the wake of their progress. And this was the biggest reason why he was still stuck in his level 30. Sacrificing his chance to level up and progress, to unveil this mystery¡­ But with just this item alone, he was more than satisfied even if he was left behind compared to the others. He had information regarding high leveled top tier experts in which they only had around pitiful 5 luck attributes all combined from items and others... Even if a person was to take this ring and restart the account, he would be satisfied already because this item was worthy for the sacrifice. Even when it was still in an imperfect condition, it still brought a lot of luck attributes. What about when it was brought into the perfect state? Rylan then put away the Ring of Wonder and walked toward a certain direction. And as he ventured deeper for a few seconds into the cave, Rylan encountered a dead end. The walls, stalactites, and stalagmites adorned the surroundings, creating an eerie ambiance. To others, it may have seemed like a barren chamber devoid of significance, its sole purpose to house the boss. But Rylan knew better. He knew that there was more to this place, especially behind the looming stalagmite that stood before him. It was only after he gathered a lot of information and finishing the related quests pointing toward this place that he had finally gained a deeper understanding about this cave. If someone else enters this place, others would just be more than contend to get the loots from the boss, especially the Ring of Wonder, and get the hell out of this place. But fortunately not for Rylan. With interest guiding his actions, Rylan studied the stalagmite from various angles. Finally, from a certain vantage point, the formation revealed a hidden clue¡ªa series of cryptic codes etched into the very structure of the stalagmite itself. It was as if the cave itself whispered secrets to those with the eyes to see. Unlocking the mystery, Rylan deciphered the codes left behind by the stalagmite''s peculiar formation. Each sequence provided a crucial clue, guiding him toward the next step in his solve. With each revelation, excitement surged within him, fueling his vigor to uncover the truth that lay dormant in the heart of the cave. As the final code fell into place, Rylan did as what the codes ordered and done it meticulously. *Kreeeekkgg* The cave seemed to respond Rylan''s triumphant deciphering. The wall behind the stalagmite shifted, revealing an abandoned room bathed in a dim, eerie light. Within this desolate room stood a lone, rust-covered chest¡ª the very purpose of Rylan''s tireless efforts. With trepidation and anticipation intertwined, Rylan approached the chest, his hands trembling with a mix of caution and excitement. He unlocked the chest, the creaking of the aged mechanism filling the air.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. Within the rusted chest, Rylan discovered not only a vial of potion but also a weathered parchment filled with cryptic writings. Curiosity coursed through his mind as he wondered what these enigmatic items might signify. As he pondered their significance, a notification from the system abruptly interrupted his thoughts. [Ding! You have found an unknown rarity class. Do you want to accept it?] Rylan hesitated for a moment. The Battle Mage class had served him well, and he had excelled in its mastery. He was sure of himself that he was one of the best Battle Mage users in this game. As for how and why he was sure of himself, actions speak louder than words, that was all he could say¡­ But, he truly couldn''t deny this very class. After all, he had come so far in his journey, delaying his progress, clearing clues here and there for years¡ªhow could he let go of an opportunity that lay within his grasp? Without a second thought again, Rylan accepted the unknown rarity class, bracing himself for the possibilities it held. The system responded with a surge of energy as the parchment leapt out and shone brightly. The light enveloped Rylan, an acknowledgment of his choice. [Ding! You have obtained the Weaver Class!] As the notification appeared, Rylan''s mind whirled with anticipation and curiosity as he read the through the small information that he got. Weaver¡ªa forgotten one from the annals of history, known simply as the Weaver. This class was said to have the power to manipulate the very fabric of reality, weaving intricate spells and manipulating the threads of existence. The status panel shimmered into existence before Rylan, unveiling the skills of the newfound class ¡­ - Class: Weaver - Rarity: Unknown Description : A forgotten class from the annals of history. Not much is known about this class. The skills of the Weaver class revealed themselves, showcasing the unique abilities that allowed Rylan to manipulate the essence of reality:
  1. String Limit : Weave a thread, entangling enemies and restricting their movement. Mana Consumption: 200. Cooldown: 8 seconds.
  2. Dyeing Oneself: Briefly phasing out of existence. Mana Consumption: 100. Cooldown: 20 seconds.
  3. Essence Weave: Infuse your spells with ethereal energy, amplifying their effects and increasing their potency. Mana Consumption: 150. Cooldown: 12 seconds.
  4. Warping Hollow: Twist the threads of space, instantly teleporting to a nearby location to gain a tactical advantage. Mana Consumption: 80. Cooldown: 5 seconds.
  5. Distorting Fabric: Erect a barrier of distorted space, could deflect incoming attacks and reducing damage taken for a short duration. Mana Consumption: 250. Cooldown: 15 seconds.
  6. Knot of Renewal: Meld with the essence of nature, channeling its rejuvenating power to restore health and mana over time. Mana Consumption: 300. Cooldown: 30 seconds.
... Rylan''s heart quickened with trepidation. While the Battle Mage had brought him far, this newfound class held a brand new world. "... Insane." As Rylan surveyed the skills before him, he couldn''t help but become awestruck at the possibilities. The description seemed short and brief. But just a short look could tell that this class contained powerful skills that were world defying. Kllutk Rylan''s curiosity piqued as he examined the vial he had discovered in the rusted chest. However, upon closer inspection, he realized that this was no ordinary potion vial. It was an intricately crafted tool, specifically designed for the Weaver class to harness and store unique energy inherent to their abilities. The vial, known as the Weaver''s Clement Glass, held within it the key to unlocking the potential of the Weaver''s skills. The materials used in the creation of this tool remained a mystery, but Rylan could sense the sophistication and extraordinary craftsmanship that went into its making. It was evident that the Weaver''s Clement Glass was not an item that could be replicated or used by anyone other than a true bearer of the Weaver class. The panel status of the Weaver''s Clement Glass shimmered to life, offering a glimpse into its capabilities and the energy it contained. ¡­ - Name: Weaver''s Clement Follicle (Upgradeable) - Class Requirement: Weaver - Energy Capacity: 500/15.000 ¡­ The Weaver''s Clement Follicle served as a reservoir for the unique energy possessed by the Weaver. It acted as a conduit, allowing the class bearer to tap into and use the latent power of its abilities. By harnessing this energy, the Weaver could unlock and utilize a range of exclusive skills that set them apart from other classes. However, Rylan realized that to truly understand the Weaver''s Clement Follicleand its potential, he needed to unlock its secrets and upgrade it first. The glass held within it a set of knowledge and information waiting to be extracted. By upgrading the vial, he would be able to delve deeper into the mysteries of the Weaver''s class and access a broader array of skills and abilities. He prepared himself mentally to uncover the secrets held within the Weaver''s Clement Follicle. Climbing so hard on a mountain and finally achieved its peak, only knowing that it was just a small hill¡­ ¡°Sigh¡­¡± Noah shook his head with a small smile. It was because he knew that the best view came after the hardest climb. Not only that, the journey so far had wielded not only this Weaver Class and Ring of Wonder, but also many things on the way. Didn''t he also get many advantages as he reached toward this point? That''s right... The journey... The memories that has been etched... The friends that has been made a long the way¡­ ¡­ I don¡¯t remember making much friends here but still, After all, it''s the process that... ... A vein looked to be appearing on his forehead. Freaking process¡­ Process your pointy navel¡­ The heck even I¡¯m thinking bout at this point¡­ He shook his head as he washed away the thought. His eyes wandered on his status panel and suddenly his eyes widened like saucers. He realized something crucial that he had missed as he was too excited about the Weaver class to notice it. The Battle Mage class¡­ ¡­ was not gone! Chapter 3 : Getting Out of the Cave Chapter 3 : Getting Out of the Cave As Noah kept on walking after he went out from the cave, he found himself standing on the outskirts of a bustling town. The sunlight bathed the cobblestone streets, and the sounds of laughter and chatter filled the air. It was a stark contrast to the pretty eerie silence of the cavern he had just left behind. ¡°Hmm¡­ Weaver Class¡­¡± Noah muttered in a low voice. He understood that discovering the essence of the Weaver class would require more than just relying on external sources of information. While he could search for forgotten texts and seek guidance from sages and scholars, he had a hunch that the true understanding of his class lay within himself. The Weaver''s Clement Follicle represented a direct connection to the core of his abilities. It was through this very tool that at least gave him a lead, where he could delve into the depths of the Weaver''s essence and unlock its hidden potential. With each upgrade to the glass, he would come closer to unraveling the secrets that lay dormant within the Weaver class. Yes, that was correct. Though the Unknown Rarity of this class itself already had overwhelming skills already, the rarity itself was still unknown. Just with this information, Noah easily interpreted that this was not even the final form¡­ "Cliche may it be, but if it happened to me, how can I reject a no scam free real estate? Especially when it takes a lot, lot of time and an insane amount of effort and sacrifice to get it too¡­¡± Noah laughed with a pretty wide smile. His mind then wandered to the related topic. ¡°Hmmm¡­Yellow Crescent Diamonds..." For example, for the first upgrade, he needed the main materials called Yellow Crescent Diamonds. He needed to find information relating to this particular material first before he started to embark on his searching. Yet, Noah also acknowledged that this path of self-discovery could be challenging and frustrating. The Weaver class was stated that it had long been forgotten, and the information available was most likely scarce. Though from his facial expression alone, one could tell that he was determined not to let the frustration deter him, embracing the challenge and letting it fuel his quest for power and strength. ¡°Well¡­ I mean it¡¯s to be expected after fighting against that thing, but still¡­¡± As Noah walked through, his thoughts drifted to his inventory. He couldn''t help but shake his head with a wry smile as he recalled the aftermath of his battle against the weakened Cosmic Watcher. His once well-stocked collection of weapons and armors were now battered, almost all of them were destroyed and unusable. Especially for the better ones. The fierce battle had taken its toll on his equipment, leaving him with a sense of loss. Opening his inventory screen, he saw the sorry state of his gear. The armor he had cherished was now dented and torn, barely holding together. His trusty weapons, which he had prepared meticulously, were chipped and dulled. It was evident that the confrontation with the weakened Cosmic Watcher had been one of if not the toughest battles he had ever faced. As his eyes scanned the depleted inventory, he couldn''t help but think of the preparations he had made before the encounter. Countless hours had been spent accumulating a cache of potions, scrolls, and formations to aid him in that battle. The resources he had amassed were nearly depleted, leaving him with only a few scraps of his once formidable stockpile. The intense struggle against the formidable foe had demanded as he had anticipated, but it truly made him twitch his eyes a little regardless. A top tier Cosmic entity! It was a bona fide apex expert in this world. The power that such Cosmic entity bore was enough to destroy a city without much trouble. Being able to kill the previous weakened Cosmic truly spoke of the skills of Noah. It was no wonder that he lost many precious items, weapons, armors, and such in fighting against that weakened Cosmic. Defeating the weakened Cosmic Watcher was a demonstration to his arsenals. It had been a hard-won victory, one that had pushed him to his limits and tested the extent of his abilities. "A Cosmic, an apex that has the power to stand at the top power of this world, was there to safeguard the class itself... It is truly a wonder just what kind of class is this Weaver.... If it was not weakened, let alone me, even an empire might not be able to enter the cave itself."If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. Lost in his thoughts, Noah continued his journey towards the town. As he entered the bustling town, Noah''s gaze shifted to the lively streets before him. It was here, amidst the vibrant community of adventurers, that he decided to see the situation first. As Noah stepped into the bustling town, his attention was quickly drawn to a gathering of adventurers near the town square. Excited voices filled the air as different parties assembled, their gear gleaming in the sunlight. It was evident that a dungeon raid was about to take place, and the anticipation was all over the air. Among the groups, Noah overheard snippets of conversations as people offered their skills or sought to join existing parties. "Looking for a healer here! We''ve got a well-rounded group, just need someone to keep us alive!" "I''m a rogue with maxed-out lockpicking. Any party need someone like me?" A party nearby caught Noah''s attention. They stood apart from the others, their gear of higher quality, and their camaraderie apparent. Whispers rippled through the crowd as the name "Trevor Maga" was mentioned. The Maga family, known for their prestigious Violet Splash Corporation, had sent one of their own to lead this elite group. Curiosity piqued, Noah couldn''t help but listen in on the conversations of the passersby. "Did you see that party led by Trevor Maga? They''re practically one of the best in this area. No wonder they have the best gear." "Yeah, I heard they''ve completed some of the toughest dungeons out there. It''s not easy to join their ranks." "Imagine having access to all those rare and expensive items. They''re practically unstoppable!" ... As they were in their own discussions, suddenly a commotion broke out. An old man seemed to be running away from something scary. Noah and the others caught sight of the old man, NPC, frantically running through the streets with a frightened expression. Curiosity piqued, he followed the gazes of the other players, who were also observing the old man. Tears welled up in the old man''s eyes as he shared his plea for help. "Please, anyone who can find my son and bring him back to me, I will be absolutely grateful!" Approaching the NPC, Noah and the others learned the cause of the old man''s distress. He had ventured into the nearby forest with his son to gather herbs, a seemingly routine task. However, something had gone terribly wrong¡ªthe forest had become an unsettling and dangerous place. Beasts ran amok and the once peaceful woods had turned into a realm of restlessness and chaos. In the midst of the commotion, the old man and his son had been separated. [Quest Initiated : Saving the Son of Aiden] The old man Aiden urgently need help to save his son from the danger. The quest has a duration of 1 day. Reward : 5 Gold, and an equipment. ... Noah was in his thought. What struck him was that the forest the old man mentioned was located at the very same direction of the cave where he had acquired the Weaver class. It seemed that the strange occurrences might be related to what Noah did, as he accepted the Weaver class. Or maybe was just a pure coincidence. As Noah pondered the situation, he noticed others among the crowd stepping forward to accept the old man''s quest. Among them was Trevor Maga and his elite party, who were drawn by the prospect of a challenge and opportunity. They were not only curious to the occurences in the forest but also interested to the reward being given by the old man Aiden. 5 golds are quite a lot, especially for rookie players like them. The equipment also made them interested because the equipment was not revealed as to what it is. They might as well try to see whether they can finish this quest or not. Trevor Maga huddled with his elite underlings to discuss their plans. His eyes gleamed with curiosity and a tinge of interest, clearly intrigued by the mystery surrounding the forest''s unrest. "So, it seems this forest holds some interesting things," Trevor mused, a hint of wonder in his voice. "I want to know what''s causing these beasts to go wild. It could be a valuable piece of information." His underlings nodded in agreement, their loyalty to Trevor evident in their full attention. "We should proceed cautiously, Boss," one of them remarked. "It wouldn''t do well for our reputation if we were to somehow mess up our own actions¡­" Trevor chuckled, nodding at the advice. "Indeed, we shall tread carefully. But, this matter quite interests me." His gaze shifted towards the old man, visible from a distance as he and his party continued their discussion. "We don''t know what kind of equipment that is going to be given toward the one who turn in the quest," Trevor said with a smile. "If some of these adventurers succeed in rescuing the old man''s son, make sure to approach the one who saved him. Offer them a reasonable sum of coins for the old man''s quest. If they''re willing to part with it, then all''s well.¡± His underlings exchanged glances, they knew better than to question Trevor''s commands. They were loyal to their leader, and they understood that here, obtaining powerful equipment was a constant pursuit. "... And if the player who saves the son refuses to part with the equipment?" one of the underlings, Marcus inquired with a grin. Trevor''s looked at the person with a ¡®why do I even recruit you¡¯ look. "Naturally we''ll have to show them that crossing us is an interesting decision. A bit of friendly persuasion, you see." His words hung in the air, a silent understanding passing between Trevor and his elite underlings. Chapter 4 : Restless Forest Chapter 4 : Restless Forest As Noah and the other players ventured towards the area surrounding near the cave where he had acquired his Weaver class, the once serene forest had transformed into an unsettling and restless realm. The vibrant greenery now seemed to writhe with a gloomy energy, and the air was thick with an atmosphere of unease. Intrigued by the newfound activity in the forest, Noah pressed on, preparing to fight against the monsters. The first few formidable monsters they encountered were some 2 Horns Bears. ... Name: 2 Horns Bear Level: 33 Health Points (HP): 5000 ... The imposing 2 Horns Bears growled fiercely, its muscular form ready to unleash its powerful attacks. This monster excel in the attributes of strength, agility, and endurance. Noah knew that brute force alone for the normal players wouldn''t be enough to defeat such a formidable foe. Next, the group spotted a bunch of Shimmering Serpents. ... Name: Shimmering Serpent Level: 31 Health Points (HP): 4500 ... The sleek and venomous Shimmering Serpents moved with deadly grace, their fangs ready to deliver a poisonous strike. The monster was not only venomous, but also agile and fast. The players'' battle instincts kicked in, urging them to be cautious and strategic in their approach. These monsters were not only strong, but also seemed to be injected by some kind of adrenalines too. As they pressed further into the restless forest, more creatures emerged, each presenting its own unique set of tricks up their sleeves. These monsters'' health points surpassed some of the players, making every confrontation a test of endurance and skill. Drawing upon the versatility of his Battle Mage class, Noah knew that his abilities were more than enough for the challenges that lay ahead. He didn''t think that he needed to use the Weaver''s class skills because even though for most people this kind of enemies were enough to make them desperate, he was confident on being able to pass through them. His Battle Mage class was not an ordinary advancement but a hidden and rare specialization within the realm of mages. In the virtual world, mages typically had various branch classes like Shaman, Acolyte, and Arcanist, each offering unique abilities and specialties. These branches were widely known and considered the standard paths for aspiring mages. It was a secret specialization that only a select few had managed to unlock. To attain this prestigious class, players had to embark on a daunting and difficult quest, surpassing the challenges that most couldn''t trespass. The requirements for unlocking the Battle Mage class were shrouded in mystery, known only to a few scattered pieces of lore and rumors. Many didn''t even know that this class even existed, a class that could be said to be had for the most exceptional and skilled players. And Noah was one of the few who had the chance to acquire this class. The quest he had undertaken was one of the most challenging trials he had ever faced, demanding most of his skills, strategy, and perseverance. ¡°Haaa¡­ Just when I¡¯ve done something tedious just now¡­¡± Noah spoke resignedly while moving his right hand sideways, arcs of mana followed. Whhmm The moment his Battle Mage class manifested, he felt an incredible surge of power coursing through his body. The class truly felt like its exclusivity was reserved for those who could rise above the ordinary and demonstrate exceptional skill and mastery over their craft. Rumors of this class spread like wildfire across the virtual realm, captivating the attention of expert players far and wide. Many top-tier players who sought the pinnacle of their abilities were intrigued by the prospect of unlocking hidden classes just like the Battle Mage. "Alright¡­ I guess I will use you for now." Noah said as he extracted a staff from his inventory. No, it was more precise to say that it was a spear.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. ¡­ [Name: Lambasting Spear] Type: Hybrid Spear-Staff Rarity: Rare Level Requirement: 30 Description: The Lambasting Spear is a rare and exceptional weapon that seamlessly fuses the attributes of a staff and a spear. This unique hybrid weapon enables one to channel the potency of arcane spells while retaining the precision and thrusting capabilities of a spear. Its exceptional craftsmanship and magical enhancements make it a prized possession among those who can wield it. Attributes: - Physical Damage: 120-160 - Magic Damage: +60% spell power - Critical Strike Chance: +10% - Spell Amplification: +15% Special Abilities:
  1. Arcane Thrust - User can infuse the spear''s tip with arcane energy, allowing user to unleash a devastating magical thrust. Upon impact, the Arcane Thrust deals extra magic damage based on user''s spell power, piercing through enemy defenses and leaving them vulnerable to follow-up attacks. Mana Cost: 50 mana
  2. Elemental Channeling - The Lambasting Spear can channel user''s elemental spells, imbuing each thrust with the power of fire, ice, or lightning. Depending on the element channeled, the spear''s attacks gain additional effects, such as causing burn, freeze, or electrocute status on foes. Mana Cost: 30 mana per thrust
  3. Arcane Resonance - Successful melee attacks with the Lambasting Spear have a chance to generate an Arcane Resonance effect, temporarily increasing user''s spell power for a short duration relative to stats. This effect synergizes with user''s spellcasting, enhancing the potency of user''s magical arsenal. Mana Cost: 25 mana per activation
  4. Fused Magic - When user casts spells while wielding the Lambasting Spear, the weapon channels the spell''s energy and enhances the next melee attack. The fused magic grants additional magic damage on top of the weapon''s base damage, making user¡¯s melee attacks particularly potent after spellcasting. Mana Cost: 40 mana per activation
  5. Mana Regeneration - Whenever the user successfully lands a strike, there is a chance for a portion of the user''s mana to be restored, while allowing the user to have more resistance against magical damage during battle relative to stat points. Restoration : 5 mana
¡­ Yes, to be more precise again, this was a spear staff! The Battle Mage class that Noah had acquired was a unique and formidable specialization that defied the conventional boundaries of traditional mage classes. Unlike typical mages who relied solely on their spells, Battle Mages combined the finesse of magic with the ferocity of close melee combat, making them a hybrid between the two. At the heart of his Battle Mage''s prowess was his special weapon, a rare and exceptional hybrid that those who knew it called the "Mage''s Spear." This remarkable weapon was an exquisite fusion of a staff and a spear, meticulously crafted to harness both the devastating power of spells and the precision of a warrior''s thrust. Forging the Mage''s Spear was an intricate and elusive art, known only to a select few skilled craftsmen in the virtual realm. The process involved infusing the traditional materials of a staff with the resilient and sharp properties of a spear. As a result, the Mage''s Spear was an extraordinary combination that bestowed the wielder with the best of both worlds. The rarity of this kind of weapon was undeniable, with only a few scattered throughout the virtual world, whether for the low ranked ones or the high ranked ones. Its complexity was not the only reason for the scarcity as the users of this weapon were so minuscule. Noah only knew one class that could use this spear staff, which was his own class Battle Mage. But not even normal Battle Mage could use this weapon. He sensed that if other players had this Battle Mage class, he believed that most if not all of them would use normal weapons such as sword, saber, spear, or daggers. Because not only was it not easy to control this weapon, but it was also a rare weapon. Mastering this unique weapon was one thing, cause unless one was confident in getting this spear staff continuously as he or she progressed in the game, then it was not worth it to master this. Better mastering the more available weapons out there. When Noah wielded the Mage''s Spear, he felt a connection to the virtual energies that flowed through him. The staff-like end allowed him to channel and amplify his arcane spells with unprecedented precision, while the spear-like tip granted him the ability to engage in close-quarters combat with unrivaled finesse. The unique characteristics of the Mage''s Spear made it a potent weapon, but it also demanded a profound understanding and skillful handling. Noah had to master the delicate balance between magic and melee, learning to seamlessly transition between spellcasting and thrusting or cleaving maneuvers in the heat of battle. As he trained and honed his Battle Mage abilities, Noah''s proficiency with the Mage''s Spear grew, and he discovered new ways to exploit its versatile nature. The weapon became an extension of his will, allowing him to execute devastating combinations of spells and strikes that could left opponent in disarray. Noah''s possession of this rare weapon set him apart from other mages, even to the other Battle Mages, solidifying his position. And more than that, Noah having decided to use spear staff clearly stated his confidence in being able to get this kind of weapon in the future too. And that was also the reason why his heart panged when he saw his destroyed weapons back then after he had successfully defeated the Celestial Watcher. He had collected a bunch of them, full of challenges on his way, but most of them are gone. How could he not shake his head? But naturally, he didn''t regret it one bit as he had gained something even better. As he obtained the rare treasure that could increase his luck points, but also the mysterious Weaver Class¡­ "Thankfully, you are not broken¡­" Noah brandished his spear staff toward the near enemies as a smirk appeared on his face. He propelled himself powerfully and then went through their ranks. Krassssh The monsters that were attacked immediately suffered tremendous injuries as they seemed to become shocked that a human from their enemies'' side seemed to have a strong powerhouse. "Though I''m kinda tired at the moment, let''s party a little bit again I guess." Noah said as he appreciated his spear once again. Chapter 5 : Finally Join Chapter 5 : Finally Join The Lambasting Spear was truly an exceptional weapon, unlike any normal spear staff found in the virtual realm. It belonged to a league of its own¡ªthe coveted realm of Rare Rarity. In the vast landscape of weapon rarities, Rare Rarity items were known to not stand in the typical normal rarity items ranged from Sand, Wood, Stone, Iron, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum¡­ Those who knew about the hidden rarities understood that Rare Rarity was in the different tier. It was because Rare Rarity items belong toward the hidden rarity items! In the virtual world, items were classified into various rarities based on their materials, craftsmanship, and properties. The conventional rarities followed a clear hierarchy, with each tier offering superior attributes compared to the one below it. However, the secret rarities, including Rare, Secret, Unique, Epic, and Legendary, operated under a different set of rules. Unlike the straightforward progression of the normal rarities, the hidden rarities had a complex interplay of abilities and potential. While there was a general understanding that Unique Rarity stood above Secret Rarity, there were many instances where it was the opposite. A well-crafted Unique Rarity item could potentially outshine an Epic Rarity or higher counterpart, making the evaluation of these hidden gems a matter of speculation among players in the known. Most if not every hidden rarity item possessed tremendous value and strength relative to their levels, mostly surpassing their normal-ranked counterparts. These items were the stuff of yearning for the players in the known. However, their elusiveness made them incredibly challenging to acquire, and only a select few lucky or skilled individuals managed to lay their hands on such treasures. Normal rarity items were typically crafted by people, using materials obtained through quests, crafting, or trading. While Platinum ranked weapons were considered top-tier among normal rarities, they didn''t necessarily guarantee superiority over lower-ranked hidden rarity items. The vice versa also applied as the platinum ranked items didn''t necessarily mean that they will lost out to the hidden ranked rarity items, especially to the lower ranked ones. The complexity of the virtual world and the diverse abilities of each item meant that the true worth of a weapon sometimes lay beyond its assigned rarity label. Or more like, lay beyond the common understanding of such things. The Lambasting Spear, as a Rare Rarity weapon, held a distinguished place in the hierarchy of his items. Its exceptional design, rare materials, and infusion of some power made it a reliable tool for Noah''s journey as a Battle Mage up till now. He was really grateful that the fight against the Celestial Watcher didn''t make him lose this weapon, though he lost the other ones, even some similar to this¡­ ¡°Such is the price yea¡­¡± He sighed, and somehow suddenly his aura changed a little bit. Kalck Noah put something from his inventory and attached it on his face. Suddenly, his appearance became different compared to before. The two faces couldn''t be traced toward each other because of the sheer difference. This thing was a mask. ... Name: Chameleon Visage Ability: Face Configuration Rarity : Unique Description: The Chameleon Visage has the capability to change the wearer''s appearance, enabling them to assume an identity of a different individual. ¡­ Noah possessed a mysterious and versatile tool, a Unique Rarity mask known as the "Chameleon Visage." This exceptional mask granted him the ability to alter his appearance at will, allowing him to assume different identities and go incognito as needed.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. The Chameleon Visage was indeed a marvel of equipment. However, there was one notable limitation to the Chameleon Visage¡ªit could only store and alter one type of face. Once configured to a specific appearance, the appearance of the mask could not be changed. Consequently, he had to choose wisely when configuring the mask to ensure it aligned with the situation or role he needed to assume. He was a careful person. He knew that he would make a scene or two by displaying his prowess. Being strong didn''t necessarily mean that you will be praised and hailed. We can never know the hearts of others after all. There was a saying that 2 tigers couldn''t live in the same mountains. And naturally, Noah understood this point. Shhhsshh With command, Noah activated the mask''s transformation. The process of configuring the Chameleon Visage was seamless and practically effortless. Within seconds, his appearance shifted to the applied configuration. This impressive adaptability made him nearly unrecognizable from his previous appearance, granting him the perfect disguise to navigate various situations undetected. No one noticed as the players around him were focused on the task in front of them. Though in the first place, he was not really standing around them anyway. "After finally finishing the clue of the Weaver class by myself for years, miniscule interaction with other players if not at all, I can finally join the them, huh..." Noah muttered under his breath. Noah had abstained from having relationships with other players because first of all, he was a lone player ever since he started the game. His friends in the real world didn''t even know that he was a player. It was especially after he got the first clue for the Weaver class. He didn''t want to risk the information to be leaked. But now that he already got something out of it, he could move on to the bigger pictures¡­ ¡­ Claankk Krasskh Blasshh As the group of players delved deeper into the restless forest, they found themselves facing an onslaught of ferocious monsters. The creatures seemed to have formed a horde, and their relentless ferocity overwhelmed the adventurers. The battle was intense, and the players fought valiantly, their skills and abilities clashing with the monsters'' savage attacks. However, the monsters proved to be a formidable force, with their Chief-ranked individuals leading the charge. Amidst the raging battle in this restless forest, two players stood out among the adventurers: Lyra and Markus. Known to the rest of the group, Lyra and Markus were the underlings of Trevor Maga, the influential and powerful leader known for his skills and affiliation with the renowned Maga¡¯s household and Violet Splash Corporation. ¡°These bastards are pretty ferocious¡­!¡± The skilled Swordsman named Markus, swung his blade with precision, attempting to fend off a group of 2 Horns Bears that surrounded him. Despite his impressive swordsmanship, the sheer number of monsters left him struggling to keep up. His Health Points rapidly dwindled under the relentless onslaught. Markus, the seasoned and battle-hardened Swordsman, was a reliable and steadfast companion in Trevor''s elite team. His loyalty to Trevor was matched only by his prowess with a sword. In the midst of the chaotic battle, sometimes he glanced towards Trevor for guidance and order, knowing that his every move was observed and assessed by his leader. Another player, a nimble Archer named Lyra, tried to maintain her distance from the monsters, firing arrows in rapid succession. Lyra, the nimble and skilled Archer, was well-known for her impressive accuracy and agility in combat. As the fierce monsters closed in on the group, she fought with a focused gaze, ensuring that Trevor''s plans were carried out effectively. However, the Shimmering Serpents, with their venomous bites and coiling strikes, closed in on her with alarming speed. She found herself cornered, unable to escape their deadly grasp. Even the well-coordinated efforts of the party began to falter in the face of the overwhelming number of monsters. The Chief-ranked monsters seemed to possess an even greater level of strength and tenacity, pushing the players to their limits. Suddenly, Trevor appeared and stood between Lyra and her pursuers. He brandished his saber as the serpents thrown back with cut injuries on their bodies. "Give assist to the DPS! Healers, don''t slack off and heal those who need it! Tanks, regroup once more and don''t falter!" Trevor shouted out loud. His party acknowledged his orders as they did what they were tasked. Their combined efforts allowed the party to regroup momentarily, but the Chief-ranked monsters still posed a significant threat. Noah knew that their chances of survival hinged on a well-coordinated strategy. He called out to the party, "Focus on the Chief-ranked monsters! We need to take them down one by one!" Markus, Lyra, and the others acknowledged his plan, and with the order shouted out loud, they shifted their focus towards the formidable foes. Srriinnk Crankk Klslshh The battle continued to rage on, though the outcome still looked uncertain. The forest echoed with the sounds of clashing weapons, resounding roars, and the crackling of spells. Still, their teamwork and coordination became more seamless as the time passed. As they targeted the Chief-ranked monsters, their efforts began to bear fruit, slowly whittling down their Health Points. Baamm Suddenly, a loud explosion rang in the air as a crater appeared in the middle of the enemies'' formation. A man with a spear seemingly appeared on the crackling ground out of nowhere, with shocked eyes pointed toward him. Chapter 6 : Into the Battle Chapter 6 : Into the Battle Out of nowhere, Noah emerged, his presence emanating an aura of power. With the Lambasting Spear held firmly in his grasp, he unleashed his skillful prowess, seemingly preparing to turn the tides of the conflict. ¡°Fwooo¡­¡± As the enemies closed in, Noah focused his energy onto the spear of him. ¡°Sunderwave¡­¡± Whaaanggg ... Skill : Sunderwave Radius: 15 meters Damage: 350-400 magic damage to all enemies within the radius Mana Cost: 150 mana Cast Time: 3 seconds Duration: 5 seconds ... With a fervent incantation, Noah''s surroundings ignited in a blinding flash of magical brilliance. The impact shimmered around him, converging into a swirling vortex of dangerous energy. The ground trembled beneath the intensity of the skill, and a powerful shockwave emanated outward, engulfing the enemies within its path. Kraaaahhh As the Sunderwave widened, it consumed the monsters in its devastating embrace. The force of the spell was overwhelming, harming any foe that dared to remain within the vicinity. The enemies were flung through the air like ragdolls, their strength shattered, and their numbers dwindled in the wake of Noah''s relentless onslaught. ¡°W-What the¡­¡± ¡°What was that?!¡± ¡°Who is that¡­?¡± The mesmerizing display of power was awe-inspiring, and even Trevor and his underlings were taken aback by the sheer potency of Noah''s mastery over his Battle Mage skills. The once chaotic battlefield now had a pool of destruction, and Noah stood at the epicenter of it. Whaamm Whaamm Whaaanng¡­ For the next five seconds, the unleashed energy of "Sunderwave" continued to wreak havoc, causing a maelstrom of destruction within the 15-meter radius. ¡°Come up to me!¡± Trevour shouted toward his surroundings. The onslaught gave Trevor and his allies the precious moments they needed to regroup and reposition, seizing the advantage to take control of the battlefield. Bit by bit, they could finally overwhelm the monsters with the given momentum. And the last remnants of the enemy forces finally were vanquished. ¡°Haa.. Ha¡­¡± ¡°A good performance for a fight guys¡­¡± ¡°Yeah, we did pretty well¡­¡± The players were in glad tidings as they talked with each other for a few short moments. Then a moment of silence followed as the dust settled. The other players looked upon Noah with awe and interests Trevor''s eyes narrowed, recognizing the significance of Noah''s appearance and his demonstration of power. He guessed that the spear''s rarity was high, and that there might be some interesting skills attached to that very weapon. All in all, a very nice weapon to collect¡­ But for now, all such thoughts were set aside as the focus returned to their common goal¡ªthe quest to find and save the old man''s lost son. ¡°Alright, not a bad entrance, huh¡­¡± The Chameleon Visage''s magic had taken effect, altering his appearance and masking his true identity. No longer recognizable as Noah, his now identity bore a different visage, one that he had configured using the mask''s powerful enchantment.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon. Especially¡­ His in-game name, had also changed. Another boon granted by the Unique Rarity mask, instead of being known as Demerit Liberty, he now appeared as "Straight" to all those around him. That''s right, the others saw that the spearman''s ID was not Demerit Liberty. Instead, his name was Straight in their eyes¡­ The change brought a certain anonymity for Noah himself, allowing him to move through without the weight of his true identity. With this newfound identity, he felt carefree, unburdened by the hostile parties that might come onto him. "This item was truly one of the best items that I posses after all..." Noah muttered with a small smile. In terms of value, this item could even rival the Epic ranked item. Even though the mask''s attributes couldn''t even compare to the usual Epic ranked item, the usefulness of this mask could surpass it in a different field, making anyone drool over it. The user basically had a second identity, which could be used accordingly to the user''s need. Imagine assassinating someone as he used the mask, and then take off the mask after he did the deed... Just how hard was it going to be to track the killer then? Noah''s mouth couldn''t help but curve into a grin as he swung his spear horizontally, blasting away the monsters in front of him. His foot tensed strongly and then proceeded to propel himself toward the monsters. ¡°Lezgo¡­¡± Baaangghh Noah aka Straight continued to push forward, fearlessly traversing through the ranks of enemies. The onlookers, both players and monsters alike, were awestruck by the prowess displayed by the mysterious warrior. Some people also started to guess the player. Trevor and his underlings couldn''t help but also take notice of the newcomer¡¯s subsequent actions. The memory of Straight and his exceptional skills lingered in their minds. A feeling of curiosity mingled with caution as they watched the Battle Mage single-handedly break through the enemy lines. Kraaanng Srrinnng Klsshh¡­ As Noah moved with strength and precision, the monsters before him could only watch in trepidation. It was as if he had unlocked a realm of his own, a realm where he could redefine himself and forge a new legend¡­ With each step forward, Straight carved a path through the battlefield, displaying the prowess of the Battle Mage class and the finesse of the Lambasting Spear. As Straight ventured deeper, he encountered a formidable pair of Chief ranked 2 Horns Bears. The monstrous beasts loomed over him, each one standing more than ten feet tall, their powerful muscles rippling with brute force. Their razor-sharp horns and massive claws were a trademark to their deadly prowess in battle. These Chief ranked beasts were stronger foes, and defeating them would require both skill and coordination. At least that was to the other players. ¡°Let¡¯s test you out,¡± Noah walked over calmly. Unfazed by their intimidating presence, Noah calmly assessed his opponents. With the Lambasting Spear held firmly in his hands, he knew he didn''t have to worry much. ¡°Haauungg¡­¡± As the first 2 Horns Bear lunged forward with a thunderous roar, Straight reacted with lightning reflexes. He sidestepped the attack, narrowly avoiding the deadly swipe of its claws. In response, he thrust the Lambasting Spear strongly. The spear''s energy surged forth, striking the 2 Horns Bear with a devastating force. The beast howled in pain, its tough hide no match for the potency of Straight''s attack. But the battle had just begun, and the other 2 Horns Bear wasn''t going to let its companion fall without a fight. As the second 2 Horns Bear charged, Noah prepared himself. With fluid movements, he jumped to evade while unleashing the "Frost Marks" skill, infusing his spear with the power of ice. Shhhhsskk As he struck the beast, a frigid aura enveloped its body, causing it to slow down and become vulnerable to his subsequent attacks. Klashhh Krrrrtt Srraakkh¡­ With a flurry of strikes, Noah aimed for the weak points of the 2 Horns Bear. His spear danced through the air, leaving a trail of icy destruction in its wake. He expertly utilized his Battle Mage skills to maintain a balance between melee combat and spellcasting, maximizing the potency of his attacks. But the beasts were not without their own strength. The Chief ranked 2 Horns Bears retaliated with their tremendous power, sending shockwaves through the ground with every swing of their claws. Though Noah''s evasive maneuvers and swift reflexes kept him out of harm''s way. ¡°Go¡­¡± Noah continued to press on, looking determined to overcome the ferocious duo quickly. He drew upon the Lambasting Spear''s unique abilities, triggering the "Fused Magic" skill to augment his spellcasting. Dinng As he used the skill for his offensive spells, the Lambasting Spear absorbed the energy and infused it into his next melee attack. Graanngg The resulting strike was a devastating combination of magical damage and physical spear thrust. Subsequently, the first 2 Horns Bear fell to the ground, defeated by the force of Straight''s onslaught. With a glint in his eyes, he turned his attention to the second beast and started blasting. ¡°Haaauuhhh¡­¡± Now weakened and slowed by the lingering effects of the ice, the second 2 Horns Bear struggled to keep up with Noah''s relentless barrage of attacks. With each blow, its strength waned, and the once fearsome creature now found itself at the mercy of the Battle Mage. ¡°Arcane Thrust¡­¡± The Lambasting Spear crackled with profound energy as Noah thrust it onto the bear, sending a shockwave of destruction rippling through the area. Daaagghh The impact was destructive, and the second 2 Horns Bear was engulfed in a torrent of magical force. And just in a few moments after that, the once-proud beast lay defeated¡­ Chapter 7 : 3 Horns Bear Chapter 7 : 3 Horns Bear The scene that unfolded before the onlookers left them utterly shocked and astonished. Never before had they felt like witnessing such a display of skill and power in their vicinity. The Battle Mage known as "Straight" had emerged as a force to be reckoned with, a virtuoso whose abilities seemed to transcend the norm. The onlookers were a mix of low-level players, seasoned adventurers, and even some high-ranking guild members. To them, this forest was just a starting point, a place for newcomers to gain experience before embarking on greater challenges. Though the place was meant for rookies, meant that it won¡¯t be easy for rookies anyway. The 2 Horns Bears were monsters that were challenging for them, was like a walk in the park for this spearman¡­ By no means fighting against these obstacles normally were not going to be flashy and all as this was just the rookie''s field. Yet, Straight had turned this seemingly ordinary area into a stage for an extraordinary spectacle. The sight of Straight brandishing his spear and unleashing a myriad of devastating spells left a lasting impression on everyone present. The finesse and precision with which he dispatched the Chief ranked 2 Horns Bears were mesmerizing. One thing was clear for them. They all wanted to know more about this player named Straight. Few of them had tried to search up this name after logging off the game just to see who this fellow was and where he came from. But the only results they got was nothing at all. It was as if this expert had appeared out of thin air. Some thought that they probably had not searched enough or just that there weren¡¯t even data to begin with, because there were experts who acted in secrecy, or also those who were developed in secret by guilds. But maybe there was another thing that could be a possibility. Could this possibly be the birth of a top tier expert? A debut for a new player that soon would be a top tier expert? Some of them had this kind of thought inside of their mind. ... As the dust settled from the intense battle, Trevor, Lara, and Marcus found themselves in deep discussion. They were still reeling from the surprise of witnessing Straight''s incredible display of power and skill. None of them had ever heard of a spearman by that name, and the sudden appearance of such a formidable player had piqued their curiosity. "I''ve been involved in the game for a while, true, and I¡¯ve understood lots of things. But I''ve never heard of anyone named Straight," Trevor mused, his brows furrowed in thought. "His skills, his equipment, it all seems so impressive. We should find out more about him." Lara nodded in agreement, her eyes still fixed on the area where Straight once stood before. "Agreed. He might be a new high-skilled player from a big guild, or perhaps he''s been flying under the radar all this time. Either way, he''s someone we should keep an eye on." Marcus chimed in, "I''m curious about his skills. We should find out if it''s from some rare item or part of his weapons." Trevor''s eyes gleamed with interest. "Indeed. Let''s not jump to conclusions just yet. We''ll observe him in action more and gather information discreetly. If he truly is as skilled as he appears to be, it might be beneficial for us to reach him out after this¡­" Amidst the murmurs and speculations, Trevor, Lara, and Marcus kept their thoughts to themselves, keen on keeping their observations discreet. The trio subtly decided to bide their time and observe Straight from afar. As Trevor, Lara, and Marcus continued their discussion about Straight, their attention was suddenly diverted by the sound of hurried footsteps. They turned to see a young man running toward them, his eyes wide with fear and panic. His breath was ragged, and his face was etched with distress. "What''s going on?" Trevor asked, confusion evident in his voice. The young man barely had time to catch his breath before he blurted out, "A 3 Horns Bear! It''s chasing me! I stumbled into its territory, and now it''s after me!" Behind him, the ground trembled with the heavy footsteps of the enraged beast. The 3 Horns Bear emerged from the foliage, its imposing figure commanding respect and fear. Its three deadly horns glinted menacingly in the dappled sunlight, and its roar echoed through the forest, sending shivers down the spines of all who heard it.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. As the 3 Horns Bear revealed its true rank as a Commander, a hushed silence fell over the onlookers. The atmosphere grew tense, and a palpable sense of fear washed over the players. The forest that had once seemed familiar and inviting now felt like a treacherous realm filled with untamed dangers. The panel status of the 3 Horns Bear appeared before their eyes, confirming their worst fears. It stood at an imposing height of 6 meters, with a staggering 300,000 HP¡ªfar beyond anything they had encountered before. The bear''s strength and ferocity were evident, and it emanated an aura of primal power that sent shivers down the spines of those who beheld it. "Run!" someone shouted, and the word seemed to resonate through the crowd like a wildfire. Panic and urgency spread among the players as they hastily retreated, seeking to put distance between themselves and the formidable beast. Fear etched itself onto their faces as they realized the danger they were in. The quest to rescue the old man''s son suddenly seemed like a distant memory, overshadowed by the daunting presence of the 3 Horns Bear. No¡­ It felt like it was a pure trap! Damn! That bastard old man¡­! The players were shocked and also angry at how they didn¡¯t think twice and just blindly went onto the location for the quest. "The bear is too powerful! We can''t take it on!" another player exclaimed, and the sentiment was shared by many. Just looking at the health points were enough to make them tase the feeling of despair. The sheer difference in strength and power was naturally going to be overwhelming, and the prospect of challenging such a formidable foe was beyond daunting. With a collective sense of defeat, the players decided to abandon the quest and disperse, each seeking safety in their own direction. The allure of the treasure that lay behind the quest was now eclipsed by the instinct for survival. Getting killed would get one to be penalized, by dropping items and also lowering experiences or levels. Instead of getting rewarded for attempting the quest, they would be punished for it. How could they choose to stand here and wait for the slaughter to happen? ¡°...Hmmm¡­¡± As Noah observed the situation before him, he couldn''t help but feel a hint of curiosity. And slight excitement, with expectation. The 3 Horns Bear''s ability to acquire additional horns and grow stronger even within the Commander rank was a phenomenon worth investigating. A Commander rank monster was below Chief ranked monster. The previous 2 Horns Bear had the Chief ranks attached to their status, while this 3 Horns Bear had the lower rank one. How could he not be surprised? He had encountered many powerful creatures in his adventures, but this bear''s unique progression intrigued him. "Alright... Let''s see what I can do with this," Noah, now known as Straight in public, murmured to himself as he tightened his grip on the Lambasting Spear. His mind raced with ideas and strategies, seeking to capitalize on the bear''s vulnerabilities. ¡°Let¡¯s¡­¡± Whammp In an instant, he propelled himself toward another player¡ªa fellow adventurer who was caught off guard by the bear''s imposing presence behind him and was about to get hacked. Straight''s swift movements left the onlookers stunned as he positioned himself right in front of the Commander-ranked 3 Horns Bear, seemingly catching the bear''s off guard from the sudden interception. "Frost Chain," Noah unleashed, sending icy tendrils that encircled the bear''s massive legs, slowing its movements. ¡­ [Frost Chain] Mana Cost: 50 MP Damage : 80 Ice damage Cooldown: 15 seconds Effect: Summons icy tendrils that encircle the target''s legs, slowing their movements for 5 seconds. The slow effect increases with higher skill levels. ¡­ The frosty chains like ice constricted tightly, creating an opportunity for his next move. Capitalizing on the bear''s momentary distraction, Straight channeled his arcane energy and invoked the power of "Arcane Chains." Ethereal chains manifested around the bear''s body, binding it in place. ¡­ [Arcane Chains] Skill Type: Arcane Skill Level: 7/10 Mana Cost: 80 MP Cooldown: 20 seconds Effect: Manifests ethereal chains that bind the target in place for 4 seconds. The duration increases with higher skill levels. ¡­ The combination of frost and arcane chains momentarily stunned the 3 Horns Bear, freezing it in its tracks. ¡°Arcane¡­ Blast!¡± Seizing the chance, Straight unleashed a powerful explosion point-blank into the bear''s flank. Arcane energy erupted in a dazzling display, dealing massive damage and causing the bear to roar in agony [Arcane Blast] Skill Type: Arcane Skill Level: 6/10 Mana Cost: 100 MP Cooldown: 25 seconds Effect: Unleashes a powerful blast of arcane energy upon the target, dealing 300% damage of the caster''s weapon attack. The damage and area of effect increase with higher skill levels. Chapter 8 : Out of Sight Chapter 8 : Out of Sight The forest fell into a stunned silence as Straight''s relentless assault temporarily stunned the 3 Horns Bear, freezing it in place. Onlookers marveled at the mesmerizing display of skill and power, their eyes wide with awe. Some claimed amongst themselves, wondering if Straight would take advantage of the moment to face the fearsome beast head-on and claim victory. -700 -598 -504 -804 ... Number of attacks kept on appearing above the Bear''s head as the attacks from Straight landed on the 3 Horns Bear''s body. There were thousands of players at the moment. Seeing that and with the basic math with the comparison of 300.000 health points with the number of players, it could be seen just how beatable the monster in front of them. Realizing the situation, gleams appeared inside of their eyes. How could they choose not enjoy the benefit of killing such a boss monster? Thus, the players decided to attack the 3 Horns Bear too, afraid of getting late to land a hit toward the monster. Without contribution, then the player would not get any rewards after the monster got killed. Such a big pie laid in front of him, how could they not be interested in getting a piece out of it? -10 -7 -30 -2 -70 +3 ... Looking at the damage done by them, they realized that they were thinking too positively. The hope of defeating such formidable boss monster started to fade. They realized once again that they compared their damages to an expert player, Straight himself. What kind of a joke is that? Speaking of a joke, who is that bastard that even healed the monster instead of dealing damage?! Noob ass ******! Don''t let me know who it is! Still, even though their hoped started to diminish, they realized that the hope was never zero. They got an expert to lead them, they could just mooch off him and got the reward from the shadow. More than that, there should be more than one expert from such caliber in this place, right? There were thousands of them after all. Baaamhh But to their surprise, Straight seemed to have a different plan in mind. With the 3 Horns Bear incapacitated, he sprang into action, darting toward the young man who had been running for his life. In a flash, the masked spearman reached the man''s side, and with a swift motion, he dragged the frightened individual using his left hand. "What is he doing? Is he going to save that guy and leave?" one player exclaimed, bewildered by Straight''s unexpected move. "He''s just running away with the guy! What''s the point of all that show earlier?" another player added, equally confused. The onlookers watched in puzzlement as Straight ignored the looming threat of the 3 Horns Bear and dashed through the forest, leaving the players behind in a state of bafflement. As he moved with astonishing speed and agility, the surrounding adventurers struggled to comprehend his actions. For a moment, the players hesitated, unsure of what to do next. The idea of abandoning the quest and fleeing from the powerful Commander-ranked monster had been a logical choice earlier. But now, with Straight''s bold and unexpected maneuver, a new sense of uncertainty and curiosity filled the air. Most players had followed the lead of Straight, attacking the 3 Horns Bears thinking that they might have the chance. Who knew that the perpretator himself decided to¡­ abandon the task? ¡­Hold up. Something ain¡¯t right. When they realized something, creeps crawled onto their backs. "Raaaaahhh!" The 3 Horns Bear roared in anger as the puny little looking humans dared to attack him so brazenly. The bear swung his claws toward the players in front of them, catching them off guard because of the sheer speed of the attack.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Greeeggg Sounds of meat getting sliced mixed with explosions from the sheer power of the bear reverberated through the forest. Tens of players got slaughtered immediately, turning into particles of light and swept away by the wind. ¡°What¡­!¡± Fear crept out of their own wits as they witnessed the massacre. They saw drops of items appeared on the spot where the players who got massacred. When they realized that they might be the one who got killed, they begun to panic. "Graaaaarr!" The bear didn''t give a chance for the player to prepare themselves as it launched itself toward the players. Facing such danger, they couldn''t afford to be slacking and reckless. Those who were far from the bear had decided to run away at all cost. It¡¯s the ones that were near the bear that realized that they wouldn¡¯t have the chance for that. How could they run when the bear¡¯s reach was so long and fast? Though some of them still decided to run, some had miraculously gotten far from it, some just got stomped on by the panic stampede. And with that, even though the bear looked very scary, the nearby ones were forced to fight it and like it or not, they needed to believe that with their combined strength, they could emerge victorious against the powerful Commander-ranked monster. With hearts pounding with adrenaline, the players surrounded the 3 Horns Bear, ready to face the fearsome creature head-on. They unleashed a barrage of spells and attacks, their confidence bolstered by Straight''s example. But the 3 Horns Bear was really such a wild foe. As the players engaged in battle, they soon realized that the creature''s strength and resilience far surpassed anything they had encountered before. Its massive size and brute force made it a formidable adversary. It swiped and lunged with lightning speed, its sharp horns and claws tearing through the players'' defenses with ease. Each blow was a crushing reminder of the danger they faced. Despite their efforts, the players found it difficult to land significant hits on the 3 Horns Bear. Its thick hide seemed impervious to their attacks, and its relentless assaults left them struggling to keep their footing. "Keep it together! Focus your attacks on its weak points!" one player shouted, trying to rally the group. But the 3 Horns Bear seemed to anticipate their moves, dodging and avoiding with an unnatural agility, while also tanking the oncoming attacks. Its roars echoed through the forest, causing the ground to tremble beneath their feet. The players'' confidence began to waver as the battle wore on. Spells and attacks that had been effective against other monsters barely scratched the surface of the 3 Horns Bear''s defenses. "Stay strong! We can¡­ do this!" another player called out, trying to boost their morale. But their determination only carried them so far. As the seconds turned into what felt like an eternity, the players found themselves increasingly exhausted and disheartened. One by one, they began to fall. The forest floor was littered with fallen players, their spirits dampened by the realization that they were no match for the relentless strength of the 3 Horns Bear. "We can''t keep this up... it''s too strong..." one player mumbled, frustration evident in their voice. As they assessed their situation, the players realized that they had been played by their overconfidence. The belief that they could replicate Straight''s success had blinded them to the reality of their limitations. And another idea had appeared in their minds. That young man¡­ That young man that Straight player brought out, should be that old man''s son¡­! Realization dawned upon the players that the young man Straight had saved was most likely Aiden, the son of the old man from the town. A wave of frustration washed over them. They cursed their luck for not connecting the dots earlier, their focus consumed by the tense situation with the 3 Horns Bear. They had taken the aggro of the 3 Horns Bear as the monster now faced them instead of chasing after Straight! They had intended to take advantage of the expert, but instead they themselves got taken advantage of! His goal is really out of sight! F***! How could they not be pissed!? "That young man must be Aiden''s son all along! We should have figured it out sooner!" one player exclaimed, kicking shouted in frustration. "If only we had been more attentive," another player lamented, feeling regretful for not putting two and two together earlier. But time was of the essence, and Straight had already dashed ahead with Aiden in his hands. Despite the mere moments that had passed since they realized the connection, Straight had put considerable distance between them, his swift movements leaving the players behind¡­ Out of sight¡­ ¡°Damn it all¡­!¡± A player shouted before his body got whacked by the bear¡¯s paw, obliterating his existence into particles of light. Only one thing now remained inside of their minds. Retreat! We need to run from this stinky animal! At all cost¡­! ... Straight, aka Noah, shook his head off when he thought that the people might be thinking that he was running after the unknown equipment that the old man Aiden had offered to be the reward of the quest beside some golds. People only knew that getting unknown rarity quests or unmentioned items was very rare, thus naturally the reward should be more than worth it. But they didn''t know that unknown rarity, items, or anything of the sort, was just like the name of it. Unknown. It was hard to determine. Many factors were behind the rarity of such quests or items, but most of the time, they were just normal. Compared to the Epic rarity quest or items for example, the one who had done the quest would undoublty take the Epic rarity quest any day. Why? Because the reward of unknown rarity quest was not overwhelming and the people who had done the quest mostly thought that it was the NPC''s way of doing to attract more players to finish the quest. It was true that the reward was not so bad, but it was just mid. There were naturally items of such amazing capabilities, such as his unknown rarity class, but Noah knew just how hard it was to get it, after solving and completing clues after clues for years¡­ Noah looked at the young man that was out of breath, gaping for air either from terror or tiredness with an interested expression. Indeed, the young man himself was the reason why Straight was interested in this endeavour. Because that 3 Horns Bear was chasing after the young man, there might be a clue as to what kind of situation was currently going on. Chapter 9 : They Almost Fell Out Chapter 9 : They Almost Fell Out Back then, Straight observed the panicked young man running through the forest at a glance, where there might be something more to the situation than meets the eye. His prediction as a seasoned player told him that there must be something in the young man''s possession that had triggered the 3 Horns Bear''s aggressive behavior. No, he believed that any focused and observant player would have a guess that the young man was not just running away from the 3 Horns Bear because the bear wanted to eat him out of hunger. But most likely because the young man had incited the bear for whatever reason. What was the best way to know the reason beside taking out the answer from the perpetrator himself? Naturally, prediction was just prediction, that was why he needed to seek out the young man. And the best way was to seek him out privately. The less people in the know, the better the situation would be. Who knew if there was something great being brought by the young man? If many people know, they might do their best to snatch it away. Leaving behind the players behind him was not just so that they could tank for him. He had attacked the bear and showed them some confidence, hence they started to attack the bear too. It was all part of his plan. Naturally because he wanted them to be left behind too. It was also so that he could get away easily without any hindrance when the two parties were busy by themselves. It was killing 2 birds with one stone. "Alright, about time for you to show up." Noah said a bit loudly as he faced toward a certain area. And this was why the less people in the know, the better the situation would be. If he could have such a guess, how could the others not? Taking that into consideration, there most likely would be one or two who decided to just follow Noah. Like what the players left behind said before. At all costs. As he said that, there were no movements whatsoever. As Noah and the young man stood in the desolate place, a tense atmosphere somehow hung in the air. The young man beside him was dumbfounded when Noah suddenly said this. Noah''s sudden declaration truly caught the young man off guard, his eyes widening in surprise. "What do you mean?" the young man stammered, unsure of what was happening. Noah''s smirk widened as his Mage¡¯s Spear pointed towards a specific location. "I know you''re there," he called out, his voice firm. "Don''t think you can hide." There was still no response coming out of that direction even after he waited for few seconds. Noah shook his head helplessly. His voice became pretty serious as he spoke in a rather cold voice, "If you don''t come out, I will take that as aggression." Moments passed in silence, and then, as if obeying Noah''s command, figures emerged from the shadows. It was Trevor and his underlings, including Lyra and Marcus. "Well, how did you know that we are here, aa.... Straight?" Trevor asked, his tone interested. "I believe the question is, what are you doing here?" Noah replied calmly. He could see that these people were players just like him. "We were just passing through," Marcus chimed in. "Passing through, huh? Like who in the hell is this sweet summer child? Does he think I''m a 6 years old or something?" he retorted half laughing. Marcus had a slightly ugly expression as he heard what Noah had said. It was true that what he said sounded funny, but he was trying to give an excuse alright, at least he had tried to help even though that would even make it more suspicious.... Wait... When he realized that point, his faced turned even uglier. Even Trevor looked like he had a vein popped out on his forehead¡­. The young man beside Noah looked bewildered, caught in the middle of the unfolding confrontation.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation. ¡°Alright, what do you say now?¡± Sometimes, a person would always be in denial about something. There were many factors around it, but one of the seldom reasons was that because one wanted to catch a chance. Noah knew this very well. The young man''s eyes darted between Noah and Trevor, his confusion evident. "I don''t understand... I thank you Sir for saving me, but please....?" he asked quietly. "I still got some questions for you alright," Noah said, sparing the young man a reassuring glance. "For now, let me handle this." Turning his attention back to Trevor and his underlings, Noah gave it another glance, "I don''t have time for games. Are we trying to make some smoke or something?" Trevor seemed to be calm and composed, "You might already know, that my side is a pretty powerful and influential one¡­" Noah listened without much interest, unfazed by Trevor''s attempt, seemingly trying to impress him. Still, he didn''t try to cut him off. "But what does that have to do with anything here?" Noah replied casually. Trevor''s smile wavered slightly at Noah''s lack of reaction. "Well, you see, I could use someone like you on my side," Trevor continued, trying to regain his composure. "My captain guard holds a prestigious position, and I only offer it to those with exceptional skills and potential." Noah raised an eyebrow, understanding Trevor''s motive. It was true for Trevor as he needed a solid position if he wanted to get a big pie in the intrigues of him. He wasn''t just interested in recruiting Noah for his skills, he wanted to boost his own image by having someone as formidable as Noah at his side. "I appreciate the offer, but I''m not interested in becoming your captain guard," Noah replied calmly, declining without hesitation. Marcus, feeling the need to chime in, added, "You should feel honored. Not many players get an offer like this from someone like Boss Trevor." Noah smiled, brushing off the attempt to flatter him. "Yea yea, that sounds pretty exciting alright," he said in a half laugh. "Now if you excuse me, I have something important to do at the moment. We can catch up later on then..." Noah started to walk away while dragging the young man with him. Trevor''s fa?ade of charm and confidence faltered as he struggled to comprehend Noah''s refusal. "You''ll regret this." Marcus said with a fierce look. "I doubt it," Noah replied calmly, unshaken by the veiled threat. "You can prove it to me right here, show me what you got." The young man, who had been listening quietly, looked admired by Noah''s resolve and bravery. He could sense that Noah was a man of straightforwardness. Even though Noah was surrounded by a bunch of people, he still remained unfazed and brave. "Oh, did I mention that I am from a guild called Red Lotus? You might think twice if you want to offend me then.." Noah said while grinning playfully. The people in front of him suddenly became apprehensive after they heard what Noah had said. Red Lotus! It was a popular guild that was known for having skilled players, especially in terms of PVP. It was a pretty giant guild that someone like Trevor would tread around it carefully. True that he was from an influential family, but he was not the only one, damn it. How could I be so daring to offend someone from such a powerful guild like it? And more than that, this man Straight is an expert too... But Trevor knew that Noah might be bluffing too, which placed him in a dilemma. Just as they were in a stalemate, the ground started to tremble once again as a huge monster dashed toward their location. Whaambb Ggraanng Kraaakkc¡­ Amid the brewing conflict, the 3 Horns Bear suddenly emerged from the forest, its massive form towering over everything in its path. Despite its slight injuries, it looked even more fearsome than before, driven by rage and the thirst for revenge. "The 3 Horns Bear¡­ is back!" someone shouted, panic spreading like wildfire between the people that Trevor had brought with him. The young man, visibly trembling as fear gripped his heart, feeling like there was no escape. ¡°Rhaaaa¡­..¡± The bear growled, seemingly contemplating its next move. Though, the son of Aiden made a sudden decision. With a swift motion, he pulled a weird looking fruit from his pocket and hurled it towards the bear, shouting, "Here! Take it! Let me go!" The fruit flew through the air and landed right before the bear. The creature sniffed at it, its attention momentarily diverted by the strange offering. The young man didn''t waste any time and took the opportunity to sprint away, leaving the bear and the others in shock. "Did he just... give the bear a fruit?" Marcus asked, bewildered. "Let¡¯s take a look at it..." Lyra added, equally surprised. Trevor, who had been watching the scene unfold with a mix of irritation and curiosity, was now intrigued by Aiden''s actions. "What''s so special about that fruit?" he asked, his interest piqued. When they observed the fruit enough, they got the description from the status panel. As they looked over the description, their eyes felt like they almost fell out of their pockets as they saw that this fruit was one of the hidden rarity items in the game¡­ Chapter 10 : Fruit Chapter 10 : Fruit As the fruit lay on the ground, the onlookers couldn''t believe their eyes. Such items were treasures that most players only dreamed of acquiring. They held the potential to grant incredible benefits and advantages, making them highly sought after. "Did you see that!? That must be a treasure kind of a fruit!" one player exclaimed, his voice tinged with disbelief. "It''s like finding a rare gem in a pile of pebbles..." another added, awe evident in his tone. Trevor and the others exchanged amazed glances. The young man had thrown away something of immense value to save himself from the 3 Horns Bear. It was an act of desperation and sacrifice that had paid off in an honestly unexpected way. "I can''t believe he just tossed away a treasure just like that¡­" Marcus said, shaking his head in disbelief. ¡°Well duh¡­¡± Lyra rolled her eyes. Marcus clapped his hands once with wide eyes, ¡°Wait¡­That fruit... it must be the thing that had been attracting the bear¡­!¡± ¡°I will be getting strokes someday at this rate¡­¡± Another vein of Trevor seemed to pop out of his forehead. It made sense, the such fruit wasn''t just valuable in terms of currency, because naturally, they might have unique and powerful effects that the users could use to their advantage. And they had witnessed a desperate act driven by necessity, a young man willing to part with a valuable and rare item to save his own life... As they accessed the fruit''s more status panel, their expressions shifted from surprise to literal shock. The Nectar Star Fruit held within it a pair of effects that were very much mouth drooling. ... Nectar Star Fruit Rarity: Unique Description: A rare fruit with an otherworldly glow, known for its the stunning merit from eating it. Consuming this fruit bestows unique blessings upon the user. Effects:
  1. Obtaining an active skill, Vitalizing Aura: Temporarily increases maximum health points by 20% for 30 minutes.
  2. Hidden until obtained.
... As they read the effects of the Nectar Star Fruit, the onlookers were left speechless. It was as if the fruit held the very essence of limitless potential, offering a range of benefits that could tip the balance in any battle. Especially for tanks. Getting maximum health points increased by 20% for 30 minutes was like a gift sent by the emperor after helping him rise to power. Tank was a crucial role, either in boss or in PVP. In boss, the higher your tanks had, the higher the chance for the team to tackle the dungeon or field event. So it was not exaggerated that the tanks who saw the fruits literally drool over the fruit. With this fruit, their journey as tanks would be smooth sailing, becoming an expert would be far easier too. But naturally, the other classes were practically dazed too. They too would be more than happy to get 1 more valuable skill into their arsenals. Naturally, they were more than eager to get despite the need to compete with the tanks. But that was not all as there was still another hidden effect that would be obtained after eating the fruit. If that hidden effect was as valuable as the health boost, it would be on a different level altogether. A player who possessed such a fruit could become a sought-after ally no matter where, they were sure of it. As Trevor and his group marveled at the remarkable Nectar Star Fruit, a rustling sound caught their attention. Their gazes shifted to the source of the noise, only to find the slightly injured 3 Horns Bear slowly approaching the fruit.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings. The bear''s massive form towered over the fruit, its three horns gleaming ominously. Despite its injuries, the creature''s eyes were fixed on the colorful prize before it, its instincts drawn to the promise of nourishment and power. The onlookers held their breath, tension filling the air as the bear loomed over the Nectar Star Fruit. If the bear eats that fruit, that would really be such a waste of a treasure! But the 3 Horns Bear was stronger than any of them, and they didn''t have any way to fight back the bear if they really intended to compete with the bear. Trevor and his group exchanged glances. The Nectar Star Fruit still lay untouched, its vibrant colors contrasting with the natural surroundings. It''s going to be a shame if the bear got away with the fruit... Indeed, it could have been a valuable resource for us¡­ ¡°We gonna go all out on this¡­¡± Trevor whispered to the others with a solemn voice. Wait... Actually, we might still have a chance...? They realized something crucial as their thinking reached this point after hearing Trevor¡¯s words. Something simple yet they forgot about it because of the tense atmosphere. Death isn''t permanent. We can revive! Especially from getting killed by this relatively safe looking monster! Though they will lose things and such, can it be compared to this damn fruit? Who would have thought that dying could be part of the strategy? The situation had taken an unexpected turn, and now they had a plan that involved a calculated risk. They chatted quickly in the group about this idea. Lyra nodded, "Let''s make sure we''re well-prepared before we confront the bear." With their plan in motion, the group took a moment to strategize and ensure they were ready for the upcoming raid. Their a bit too late realization that death was not the end had given them a new perspective, allowing them to consider options they might have previously dismissed. As Trevor and his group discussed their new strategy, their attention turned to Noah. Their initial excitement about the fruit had caused them to overlook the fact that Noah, an outsider, might also have his eyes on the valuable prize. Trevor''s brows furrowed as he glanced around, searching for any sign of Noah. "We can''t let him get his hands on that fruit. It''s too valuable to be wasted on an outsider." Lyra nodded in agreement. "We should have thought about this earlier." Marcus chimed in, his expression determined. "We need to find him and make sure he''s out of the picture¡­Wait, where the hell is that guy?" As they began to consider various ways to deal with the situation, they realized something unsettling. Noah was nowhere to be found. The spot where he had stood moments ago was now empty. Trevor''s eyes narrowed as he scanned the area. "Where did he go?" Lyra''s lips tightened. "He must have slipped away when we were focused on the bear and the fruit." Marcus sighed in frustration. "We let him escape¡­" Trevor''s gaze flickered with irritation, a sense of missed opportunity gnawing at him. "He''s crafty, I''ll give him that." It dawned on them that Noah had likely seized the opportunity to depart while they were distracted by the bear''s presence. They had been so engrossed in their idea that they had failed to notice his departure. ¡°That spearman might be getting out because he sensed your eyes that kept looking on the spear of him, Boss¡­¡± Marcus whispered. "Well, you better shut up now as we need to focus on the task at hand¡­"Trevor reached his sword, but it was hard to tell whether it was to attack the bear or for something else¡­ I didn¡¯t even look at his spear, deliberately or not, for once¡­ It must be this bastard¡­ Didn¡¯t even rattle the snake, but the peasant¡¯s child threw a pebble toward its nest¡­ "Let''s just proceed with our plan to retrieve the fruit..." Trevor said, his tone became resolute. Lyra nodded, understanding in her eyes. "Agreed. We can''t let our guard down again." With their attention refocused, Trevor and his group prepared to put their strategy into action. The unexpected turn of events had reminded them of the need to be vigilant and adaptable in the digital realm. As they prepared to set out to face the 3 Horns Bear and reclaim the valuable Nectar Star Fruit, Trevor couldn''t help but stop and think twice. Trevor''s gaze shifted toward the spot where Noah had been standing moments ago. His expression turned calculating as he considered the implications of the situation. "On a second thought, we need to find him," Trevor declared, his voice a bit firm. "He can''t be far." Lyra''s eyes scanned their surroundings, a frown marring her features. "I don¡¯t think we can afford to dwell on this¡­¡± She saw that the bear was about to take the fruit away after smelling it for quite some time now, as if being mesmerized by it. Trevor had a solemn mixed with helpless expression as he shook his head. ¡°Remember, don¡¯t let the bear escape with the fruit. Distract the bear and create an opening. Work together and keep the bear occupied.¡± As the bear''s attention remained fixated on the Nectar Star Fruit, Trevor and his group seized the opportunity to take the aggression. Their gazes turned sharp as they looked at the bear, and propelled into action. Chapter 11 : Brushing the Skin Chapter 11 : Brushing the Skin Their plan was simple but carried a sense of urgency. They had to keep the bear engaged while ensuring that it wouldn''t consume the fruit that held the key to its unique properties. As the bear continued to hover near the fruit, Trevor, Lyra, Marcus, and their companions sprang into action. Sraannkk Fwwoosh Graaanngg¡­ With a flurry of coordinated attacks, spells, and maneuvers, they unleashed a barrage of assaults on the bear. Magic spells crackled through the air, striking the bear with arcs of lightning and bursts of fire. Weapons clashed against thick fur and hardened hide, while the forest resounded with the roars of combat. "Don''t let up! Keep it distracted!" Trevor''s eyes gleamed as he directed his underlings in a calculated assault while he himself tried to get near in every step. "Stay focused, you left side! Shoot the lower flank of its body!" Lyra''s precision and agility were on full display as she shoot between the bear''s massive swipes, landing strikes that wore down its defenses. Marcus''s strength and resilience were evident as he engaged the bear head-on, deflecting its powerful blows with expert precision. "Hold the line! We can''t afford any mistakes!" The three of them gave loud instructions toward the others while they kept on advancing toward it. The battle raged on, each strike, spell, and movement contributing to the intense effort to prevent the bear from escaping with the Nectar Star Fruit. The forest became a chaotic battlefield, with the bear''s formidable strength countered by the determination of Trevor and his group. Seconds felt like hours as the attacks reached a crescendo. The bear''s initial curiosity had long waned, replaced by frustration and fury. Its massive frame trembled under the relentless onslaught, but it refused to yield. ¡°Grrraaa¡­.¡± Just as the situation appeared dire, a collective manifest of energy coursed through Trevor''s group. Their attacks intensified, their movements synchronized, and their accuracy sharpened. It was a powerful push, a calculated gambit to overwhelm the bear before it could react as they used scrolls and formations to enhance their powers. And then, as if in a burst of clarity, the bear''s eyes widened with realization. It finally comprehended the danger it was in, and the threat posed by the skilled fighters before it. Naturally not the danger of its life, But the danger to the fruit! ¡°Grrrhhhaaaa¡­!¡± The forest trembled as the bear''s rage surged, a formidable force of nature awakened by the unrelenting assault it faced. With a chilling roar that reverberated through the air, the bear summoned an arsenal of maddened offense, unleashing them with a terrifying and deadly precision. Whaamm¡­ The 3 Horns Bear unleashed Terraquake Slam, where the bear slammed its massive paws into the ground, causing a shockwave that disrupted the terrain. The skill dealt area damage and stunned its enemies caught in the shockwave. Then the bear continued with Thunderous Charge, as the bear charged forward with incredible speed, generating a burst of lightning around it. Baaanngghh Krrassshh¡­ The attack Inflicted heavy damage to its enemies in its path, as around half of the players that faced the attack had died while the rest got paralyzed and injured. Trevor and his allies were faced with a new reality, a reality where the bear''s wrath seemingly knew no bounds, and its skills were harbingers of destruction. As each skill was activated, the forest floor became a battlefield littered dead bodies. Swwaarrhhh¡­ The bear unleased another skill called Molten Barrage, where the bear channeled its inner fire, releasing a barrage of molten projectiles that rain down on its enemies. Each projectile explodeed upon impact, dealing fire damage and igniting the ground. Lyra''s eyes widened as she narrowly avoided a cascade of boulders that the bear had hurled with unparalleled strength. "Watch out!"If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Marcus gritted his teeth as he blocked a wave of searing flames that threatened to engulf him. Trevor''s mind raced as he assessed the situation. The bear''s unleashed skills were very destructive. Each attack was ruthless, merciless, and deadly. But would they really be going to throw away this chance even though the chance was miniscule? ¡°Back to the formation¡­!¡± Trevor shouted out loud. As the group scrambled to regroup and establish a defensive line, the bear''s wrath still showed no signs of abating. Flames crackled through the air, striking with pinpoint accuracy. Gouts of flame erupted from the ground, scorching the earth. The forest itself seemed to come alive, with roots and vines lashing out like vipers. Their movements were dictated by the urgent need to evade and counter the bear''s onslaught. Trevor''s mind raced as he considered their options. They had to find a way to weaken the bear''s onslaught and gain the upper hand. But how could they counter such an overwhelming display of power? "We need to coordinate our attacks after this¡­!" Trevor called out, his voice cutting through the chaos. "Focus on exploiting its weak parts! I will use an ace scroll now!" Trevor shouted as a frown appeared on his face. He was honestly reluctant to use a card up his sleeve, but it seemed he didn''t have any option. Just like what he said, it was like a trump card that one could possess. Scrolls in battles have many variants, some could deal damages, some could restrict movement, some could weaken the attributes, etc. And their lethality naturally varied too. With a heavy heart and a sense of urgency, Trevor reached into his inventory and retrieved the treasured Grounded Sealing Scroll. This was a move of desperation, an option that he had hoped to avoid. The scroll represented a potent ability, capable of shifting the tide of battle when wielded at the right moment. A bright light showed up as he unfolded the scroll. ... Grounded Sealing Scroll: Effect: Unleashes a powerful seal that weakens the target''s defenses, slows their movement, and restricts their movement for 5 seconds. Effective against enemies below level 50. Cooldown: 24 hours. ... As he unrolled the scroll, a light of energy enveloped him, and the air around him seemed to turn with magical power. The scroll''s magic was like an ancient force that had been sealed away until now. Trevor knew that using this scroll would come at a cost, but in the face of the 3 Horns Bear''s overwhelming strength, he had no other choice. ¡°Go¡­!¡± With determination burning in his eyes, Trevor activated the scroll''s power, channeling the magic into the battle. Dhhiiinnggg The space shimmered with ethereal light as the seal took effect right away, weakening the bear''s defenses and slowing its movements. ¡°Graaa¡­.¡± The bear let out a somewhat weak roar out of its mouth. It was a moment of leverage, a chance to turn the tide in their favor¡­ ¡°Bombard it¡­!¡± Trevor screamed out. As the Grounded Sealing Scroll''s magic took hold, Trevor and his allies renewed their assault, striking with renewed vigor. The bear''s roars echoed through the forest, as even its formidable strength could not fully resist the power of the seal. Luckily for the bear, even though the scroll should''ve been more than enough to restrict monster below 50 for 5 seconds, because if its unique power, the bear felt that it was able to resist the restricting power from the scroll and was able to move after 3 seconds only. Baamm But unluckily for the bear, 3 seconds was enough time for Trevor to get a hold of the fruit as he launched himself powerfully. Trevor took advantage of the chance hurriedly as he directed himself toward the fruit. Fast¡­ Time seemed to slow down as the effects of the Grounded Sealing Scroll took hold. Trevor had just three seconds¡ªthe briefest of moments¡ªto seize the opportunity and claim the unique rarity fruit that lay near the immobilized 3 Horns Bear. In these tense seconds, the forest''s ambient sounds seemed muted, and all attention was fixed on Trevor and the bear. 1 second passed... His muscles responded with urgency, and his desperation was evidence in his posture. The seconds seemed to stretch into an eternity as he closed the gap between himself and the prize. 2 seconds passed... Trevor''s fingers brushed against the smooth surface of the Nectar Star Fruit. Time seemed to stand still as his hand closed around it, and he felt a mixture of relief, excitement and triumph. The fruit was his, a tangible reward for his decisive action¡­ 3 seconds passed... "ROOAAAARRR!" The bear was enraged more than ever as he saw the things happening around him. The bear utilized Raging Rampage as the bear entered a state of frenzy, increasing its attack speed and damage output. Its attacks became more erratic and unpredictable, making it difficult for Trevor and his allies to predict its moves. The bear continued with Inferno Roar, where the bear let out a deafening roar, summoning flames that erupt from the ground in a fiery explosion. The towering flames Inflicted burn damage that applied damage over time and reduces the movement speed of its enemies. "Retreat!" Trevor shouted out loud with dread, but a proud smile was plastered on its mouth. The fruit was mine after all! Finally obtained the fruit after much difficulty¡­ He still remembered the feeling where his fingers brushed against the skin of the fruit and if he had more courage, he would probably admit out loud that the feeling of the skin was even smoother than the feeling of a woman... Hahaha... Trevor laughed madly when his thinking became a bit silly. Maybe the adrenaline... I don''t know, but damn... The feeling of the skin... Brushing the skin... Brushing... Brush... ...? Hold up... Chapter 12 : Come Here You Chapter 12 : Come Here You "HOLD UP!" As the chaos of the battle continued to unfold, a sinking feeling gripped Trevor''s heart. Amid the tumultuous struggle between players and the 3 Horns Bear, a realization struck him like a bolt of lightning. The moment he had thought was a triumph was, in fact, a near miss! His fingers had only grazed the surface of the Nectar Star Fruit. The prize he had so desperately reached for was still lying there, tantalizingly close yet frustratingly out of reach. In the frenzy of the situation, Trevor had underestimated the brevity of those crucial seconds. He was sure that he had gotten the fruit, even though he was moving quickly, he naturally had calculated his speed and trajectory. Was the fruit weighed in hundred of pounds? Was that the reason why he was not able to pick it up, and underestimated it''s heaviness? ... Nah, that young man, son of Aiden, could bring it with him easily, just like how one would get a hold of normal fruit. Then what was the reason? Amidst the despair, his eyes suddenly landed on a man that he thought had gone, far from this place. His eyes widened in surprise and amazement as he didn''t know how this could happen. The man was none other than Noah, who had been using the identity of Straight for a while now¡­ The fruit that had been just out of Trevor''s reach was now being held in place by a figure he had not expected to see. The same man who had disappeared from the scene had reappeared at the most pivotal moment, clutching the precious Nectar Star Fruit in his hand. Trevor''s shock was through the roof, his mind struggling to comprehend the sudden turn of events. Trevor''s bloodshot eyes bore into Straight with an intensity that was both threatening and unnerving. The battle around them seemed to fade into the background as the two figures stood locked in a silent confrontation. And the tension in the air was as high as one could imagine, charged with unspoken menaces and unsaid words. "Hand over the fruit," Trevor''s voice was flat, though his posture laced with a veiled threat. The Nectar Star Fruit was still clutched tightly in Straight''s hand, a symbol of victory snatched from the jaws of defeat. Straight, for his part, met Trevor''s gaze with a calm demeanor. He had taken the initiative and seized the moment, and he was not blind to the retaliation that Trevor might pose. "Why should I?" Straight''s response was measured, his voice carrying a hint of puzzlement, as if he was really confused by the question itself. He held the fruit as though it were a prize earned through his own wit and effort, and he didn¡¯t look that eager to relinquish it. The stakes had shifted, and by the looks of it, he was in a position of power now. Trevor''s eyes flickered with a mix of frustration and anger. The battle felt like it had escalated beyond the physical clash of skills. With each passing seconds, or more like, miliseconds, the pressure grew. As the sun''s rays filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, the fate of the unique rarity fruit and the individuals vying for it was still undecided. "ROAAARRR!!!" Alas, time did not wait for one as the bear continued its rampage toward the daring humans. The bear once again unleashed a plethora of offense as it pounced toward the location of the fruit with more vigor. Trevor''s allies stood as a barrier between the enraged 3 Horns Bear and the direction of the coveted Nectar Star Fruit. The forest resounded with the collision of them and the frenetic movements of players determined to thwart the bear''s advance. But despite their efforts, the immense power and ferocity of the bear proved formidable.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. The situation grew increasingly dire as Trevor¡¯s eyes still laid on Noah. The bear''s attacks were ruthless, tearing through the ranks of players with devastating efficiency. The battlefield became a maelstrom of chaos, as the bear''s relentless assault claimed lives in its wake. The ground itself seemed to tremble under the force of the battle, and the air was thick with tension and fear. "Do you really want *BAANG* ..... make an enemy out of me?" Trevor asked with a heavy voice, accompanied by a loud explosion as the background. It was true that Straight was most likely an expert, but he didn''t believe that he would lose out much to him. He could farm and get better equipment later on too. After all, he had the backing of his company to boot. Even if Straight was from Red Lotus, he would not take a step back. His guild and company was not a pushover. The winner was still not decided, how could he be afraid? Trevor''s allies fought valiantly, their skills and determination pushed to the limit as they struggled to hold the line against the bear''s onslaught. But the bear''s rage and power were still unmatched by them, and despite their best efforts, lives were reaped with each passing moment. The forest''s natural tranquility had been replaced by the cacophony of battle, a desperate struggle for survival against an overwhelming force. "Well dang, why don''t you *BOOM* everytime someone got some treasures *KRAASHK*" Even though Trevor couldn''t hear clearly what Straight was saying, he could understand the gist out of it. Especially by looking at the seemingly mocking expression on Straight''s face. If he could, he really want to say more things to him, but he knew that time was of essence. A mixture of frustration, anger, and helplessness were mixed and welled up within him. He had come so close, and the cost of missing this opportunity was painfully clear, right in front of him. The Nectar Star Fruit was a Unique Rarity item, a treasure that held the potential to bring significant benefits to its bearer. And now, through a split-second misjudgment, it remained beyond his grasp. Trevor''s gaze remained fixed on the fruit, his thoughts churning as he contemplated his next move. The battle raged on around him, but his attention was focused on the prize that had slipped through his fingers. No, it was not a battle, it was a one sided massacre as the Bear roared toward his direction, massacring Trevor''s allies who stood in the path of its way. The taste of near-victory only intensified his resolve, driving him to find a way to retrieve the Nectar Star Fruit before it was too late. ¡°Boss¡­¡± Amid the chaotic battlefield, Lyra and Marcus fought with a desperation born of the dire circumstances. Their once-confident demeanor had given way to a grim realization as they exerted every ounce of their skill and strength to halt the bear''s relentless advance. Sweat mingled with dirt on their brows, hanging on to fight through the overwhelming odds they faced. "Boss, we can''t... hold on much longer," Marcus panted, his voice strained as he communicated his distress to Trevor. The burden of their task had taken a toll on him, and he could feel his strength waning with each passing moment. Lyra, by his side, was the same, her eyes reflecting a mixture of fear and exhaustion. They couldn''t see the situation clearly on Trevor''s side, but they knew that something must''ve gone wrong. They saw a man appear but they couldn''t see more in detail as the bear didn''t give them the chance to. Ever since Trevor had shouted ''hold up'', they didn''t dare to relax again. They were very happy when Trevor had shouted to retreat, thinking that Trevor had acquired the fruit. But alas, their relieved mood was short lived. Trevor''s jaw tightened as he assessed the situation surrounding his allies, his gaze flickering between the bear and his struggling allies. He could see the desperation in their eyes, a mirror of his own frustration and helplessness. The reality of the bear''s power and their own limitations had become all too clear, and the weight of their impending defeat hung heavily in the air. Their numbers had dwindled by so many, leaving only a few of them¡­ Graannngkk Marcus, pushed to his limits, found himself unable to dodge a powerful swipe from the bear. The impact sent him sprawling to the ground, with his body limp and unmoving. Lyra, her face etched with horror, redoubled her efforts to fend off the bear''s attacks. But the odds were insurmountable, and it seemed that it wasn''t going to be long before her defenses faltered. As the seconds once again ticked away, the realization settled in. The battle for the Nectar Star Fruit had taken on new dimensions, and Trevor found himself in a dilemma. The forest''s canopy cast dappled shadows over his face, making his appearance looking unsettling. "**** it, come here you¡­" As Trevor had finally decided to risk it all, he found out that the perpetrator behind all this mess, had suddenly vanished out of thin air¡­ Chapter 13 : The True Value Chapter 13 : The True Value "Where did that bastard go?!" Trevor asked out loud. His face was very ugly as he realized that he had messed up once again. He looked left and right, front and back, up and down, any direction as far as he could. But there was no sign of it. There was no sight. It was as if the spearman had gone out of thin air... Trevor knew that some might have this kind of skill, especially for the advanced class of Assassins. But wasn''t his class a spearman? They were not specialized in this kind of ability! Especially for one to disappear seemingly like out of thin air like this, he refused to believe it! Nah, let alone spearman, he believed that those advanced assassins couldn''t leave or vanish as easily and quickly like this. He had no idea how Straight had achieved this. Especially being low leveled like they currently are¡­ "Or maybe because I was distracted from the ongoing massacre of the bear..." Regret sprung up inside of his heart. If only he had more determination to risk it and fight Straight, he would probably be in a better position than he was right now. He was only distracted for a few moments, but the situation was reversible. The spearman has gone into nowhere... Trevor looked at the surviving member of his allies. It was just a single person, and it was none other than Lyra. Her health points were not even 1/10 of its maximum health. He was witnessing the last struggle of the last ally of his helplessly, and hopelessly. With a final looking valiant effort, Lyra launched barrages toward the bear head-on. She managed to land a few impactful strikes against the beast from that, proving to her prowess as an impressive ranger. But in the end, the bear''s strength proved overwhelming, and a mighty blow from its massive paw sent her crashing to the ground. Ghaakkk¡­ As Lyra''s life force waned, her gaze landed on Trevor from across the battlefield. In that moment, based on the atmosphere of him, she realized that they had basically shot themselves in their own feet. The forest''s chaos seemed to recede, replaced by a poignant silence that hung heavy in the air as her body formed into light particles, washed away by the winds... Trevor''s mouth tightened into a grim grin, laughing maniacally. His heart was heavy with the loss of his allies. The battle had exacted a steep price, and their sacrifice served as a stark reminder of the bear''s formidable power¡­. ****, not that bear power, it¡¯s that ******''s fault! ¡°Rhhaaaa¡­.!¡± The bear roared once again as it believed that the fruit was still in the possession of the man in front of it. It pounced angrily and full of power, creating a loud boom just from the impact of its momentum. ¡­Was it because they had intended to rob the opportunity of Straight that they ended up like this? "**** ! I don''t believe-" Whaaaamm The bear hacked its paw mercilessly toward Trevor. Trevor avoided it at last seconds as he had decided to try to escape from this madness. He was in desperation just now, but now that death was looming over him, his strength suddenly came back once again. Baamm Whaaangg Craaackk¡­ But the bear''s power was unyielding, its attacks relentless and overwhelming. Despite his efforts tackle, Trevor found himself struggling to keep up, his stamina waning as the battle took its toll. In a moment, Trevor attempted to evade a particularly fierce swipe from the bear. However, his movement was slightly off, and the bear''s massive claw caught him in a glancing blow. Baammm¡­ The impact sent him tumbling to the ground, his body battered and bruised. Gasping for breath, he struggled to regain his footing, with his health points starting to dwindle down.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. "Kuhh..." As Trevor rose to his feet, he locked eyes with the towering 3 Horns Bear. Its ferocious gaze held a primal intensity, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. "HAAAAAA!" With a defiant shout, Trevor charged forward once more. And what he faced was the bear''s retaliation which was swift and merciless. Its massive paw descended in a crushing blow, and Trevor''s vision blurred as its force exploded across his body. The force of the impact was overwhelming, and as darkness started to enroeach on his senses, he knew that his time had come. ... In the aftermath of the battle, the forest seemed to hold its breath, the echoes of the conflict fading into silence. As the dust settled, the forest began to reclaim its tranquility, the battle''s tumultuous energy dissipating into the atmosphere. "ROOAAAR!" Only that occasionally, the roars of an angry bear resounded every now and then¡­ Srrrinnnggtt¡­ A tear of space was formed as a man suddenly popped out from it. Far from the chaos of the battle, Noah, now still in his second name of Straight, reappeared with a sense of relief. He had employed the unique ability of his Weaver class, Warping Hollow, to teleport himself away from the perilous scene. ... Warping Hollow : Twist the threads of reality, instantly teleporting to a nearby location to gain a tactical advantage. Mana Consumption: 80. Cooldown: 5 seconds. ... He had tested the skills a few times, and he was sure that the bear could only forget about chasing him. He had a pretty excited expression on his face as he stepped onto the ground. The fruit, the Nectar Star Fruit, shimmered with an glowing radiance. Straight''s gaze fixed upon it, his face reflected upon it. ¡°This small fruit that has been the cause of turmoil, conflict¡­ including sacrifice, huh.¡± Aron added as he remembered that NPC son of Aiden. Straight''s fingers holding around the fruit. He started to assess the fruit once more as there was one effect that he was curious about. ... Nectar Star Fruit Rarity: Unique Description: A rare fruit with a shining glow, could give the beasts some hallucination if they neared it. Consuming this fruit bestows unique effects. Effects:
  1. Obtaining an active skill, Vitalizing Aura: Temporarily increases maximum health points by 20% for 30 minutes.
  2. (Unlocked) Enable a beast, familiar, pet, or alike to evolve if they stood by near enough for a time relative to the beast (Remaining uses : 1 / 2)
... The second ability was finally unlocked after he had met its requirement, which was simply just by obtaining it. Now, it became clear, the Nectar Star Fruit possessed a second hidden ability, one that basically went beyond its initial valuation. This hidden effect was related to the concept of evolution, a process that could facilitate the growth and advancement of a pet, a familiar, a wild beast, or something along the line. The fruit had the capacity to catalyze a process of metamorphosis, unlocking more potential and propelling a creature''s capabilities to new heights. As this revelation settled within Noah''s mind, he couldn''t help but be amazed by the fruit''s significance. It was a catalyst for change, a conduit for evolution! "Truly fit to the rarity of Unique! As expected of a Unique item! Gahahaha¡­!" Noah laughed out loud not caring whether there was anyone that could hear him or not. If anyone heard him laughing like this, they would probably think that Noah was remembering something cringe. A new understanding began to crystallize in Noah''s mind too, one that illuminated the mystery behind the 3 Horns Bear''s formidable presence. Now he understood the reason for the creature''s special and powerful attributes. The 2 Horns Bear, a chief-ranked entity, had already transcended the boundaries of the Commander rank, elevating itself to a position of higher distinction and might. While the 3 Horns Bear, represented an even greater leap in evolution¡ªa leap that defied conventional expectations. The very fact that it bore three horns indicated a level of power that surpassed the ordinary, conferring upon its attributes and abilities that set it apart. The bear''s rank might have remained at the Commander level, but its potential for growth was anything but ordinary. Despite only having commander level, the 3 Horns bear was able to surpass the Chief ranked 2 Horns Bear. That truly spoke about the value of the Nectar Star Fruit itself. It was no wonder that the 3 Horns Bear got so angry after the fruit was stolen... After laughing until he was satisfied, Noah stood in quiet contemplation with the Nectar Star Fruit still cradled in his hand. Despite the fruit''s potent hidden ability, he couldn''t help but feel a bit of pity. The power to facilitate evolution was a profound ability, one that could shape the progress of a companion, a familiar, or a pet. Yet, the realization brought him face-to-face with a simple fact, which was that he currently had no deserving recipient for this transformative energy. "Haaa... What a shame..." He was now thinking of what to do next. Obtaining this fruit would really be helpful toward his pet if he ever had one. Gaining a pet early might be better because then they could start to level up and be stronger at the same time. But as Noah was still in a low level area, he was sure that there were not many if not at all in the terms of a better option for pets. Noah shook his head, decided to put the matter aside as he started to walk while changing to the original appearance of Noah, instead of Straight. Chapter 14 : Small Victory Chapter 14 : Small Victory As Noah held the Nectar Star Fruit in his hand, a wonder filled his thoughts. The relatively short progress of events that had led him to this moment was nothing short of extraordinary. Was it a mere chance? The answer remained elusive, yet he couldn''t help but consider the implications. The Ring of Wonder, a fragmented artifact with its simple looking effect, had indeed given upon him a huge sum of lucks that seemed almost too serendipitous to be coincidental. A whooping 70 lucks... As far as he knew, luck was important in having higher chances in terms of drop from treasure chests, killing monsters, finishing quests, and such. Luck would also make the player have a higher chance in achieving critical strikes, which meant more damage done to enemies. Not only that, luck would also make players have higher chances to miss damage received from enemies'' attacks, which really helped in terms of survivability. That was why luck was frightening and highly sought after. Even a top expert having a pitiful looking 5 lucks would get jealous eyes over him¡­ Could this piece of equipment truly hold such power? Could its luck attributes have guided the sequence of events that had ultimately led him to possess this unique fruit? Or more like, the chance to get this fruit? ¡­Isn''t this freaking OP then? He shuddered as his thought reached this point. He knew that this might not be the case, after all he didn''t have any proof. Even if that was the case, he thought that the chance of such things happening might be once in a while, occasionally giving him the opportunity of it. He really needed to check and see whether it was the case or not. After all, coincidence happens, but if it happens for thrice, one would normally think that there might be something about it. But he really couldn''t help but become excited. A grin appeared on his mouth as he kept walking toward his destination. Arriving at the town''s center, Noah''s eyes scanned the surroundings, searching for any sign of the old man named Aiden. It didn''t take long before he spotted the familiar figure, standing near a marketplace stall and conversing with another NPC. Noah''s demeanor appeared to be calm and composed as he stride toward the old man. As he neared Aiden, he cleared his throat to capture the old man''s attention. "Excuse me," Noah began, his voice respectful. "Are you Aiden? The one who was searching for his son in the Restless Forests?" Aiden turned his gaze toward Noah, his eyes widening slightly, "Yes, that''s me," he replied casually. "But who are you, if I may ask?" Noah''s attention was drawn to a figure resting beneath a tree a short distance away for a moment as he heard the question of the old man. The figure was young, and even from this distance, Noah could see the exhaustion etched into the lines of the person''s face. A small smile tugged at his lips as he recognized the worn-out person as none other than Arden, Aiden''s son. Yes, that was the name of Aiden¡¯s son as its name appeared on its status. Noah cleared his throat gently, his desire to clarify the situation evident in his expression. "Actually, I encountered Arden in the forest when he was being chased by the 3 Horns Bear. I managed to divert the bear''s attention and ensure Arden''s safety." Aiden''s eyes widened in surprise, his gaze shifting between Noah and his son, who was still dozing. "You mean to say that you were the one who protected him from that beast?" Noah nodded, a modest smile gracing his lips. "Yes, that''s correct. I''m glad I could help him get away from danger." Aiden''s expression transformed from surprise to a mix of relief and gratitude. "My gratitude could finally be relayed, then," he said, his voice carrying sincere appreciation. "You''ve saved my son''s life, and I am indebted to you."This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. Noah''s smile widened, looking touched by Aiden''s heartfelt response. "I''m just glad I was able to assist when it mattered most. It was the least I could do." Aiden looked up from his son''s slumber and met Noah''s gaze, his eyes holding a mixture of gratitude and disappointment. "Thank you for your efforts," Aiden said, his voice carrying a heavy sigh. "But it seems my son has returned on his own. The quest has lost its purpose now." Noah''s brows furrowed slightly as he absorbed Aiden''s words. He honestly didn¡¯t expect this turn of events. Aiden''s shoulders slumped as he nodded, his gaze shifting between Noah and his son. "Indeed, I was hoping that this journey would strengthen our bond once more. But it seems fate had other plans." Noah''s gaze slowed as he looked at Aiden''s expression. I mean to be honest, that lad ran away, leaving us behind and all, but that lad should¡¯ve known that I brought him to safety first before, right? He should¡¯ve told his old man too about this, right? If that¡¯s the case, isn¡¯t this old man too shameless¡­? Aiden''s gaze lifted, meeting Noah''s with a mixture of appreciation and resignation. "Indeed. Perhaps the purpose of this journey was different than I initially thought. Arden''s return is a small victory in its own way." ¡°....¡± Small victory¡­ Bruh, this guy must be trolling right now¡­ Arden''s eyes suddenly fluttered open, and he looked at Noah with a bit of confusion. "Huh? Oh, right, Dad, well, you remember what I said right? There was this guy who came out of nowhere and distracted the bear. He fought it off and then told me to run away. He even helped me find a safe path back here." Aiden raised his eyebrows with a mix of curiosity and contemplation. He turned his gaze to his still dozing-looking son, Arden, and then back to Noah. "Arden, my boy, if you are sleeping then just sleep, why are you trying to even wake yourself up, you are tired right¡­" he called gently, his voice carrying a fatherly tone. Arden then turned toward Noah, "Well¡­ I just woke up for some reason, but Dad, this man was the guy who kinda helped me..." Aiden''s brows raised, and he turned to Noah with a respectful looking expression. "So, it seems my son''s account matches your words, young man¡­" Noah nodded with a small smile. "Yes, sir. I''m just glad I could help Arden out of a dangerous situation." Aiden''s expression grew thoughtful before he spoke again, this time directing his words to his son. "Arden, it seems that this young man here played a crucial role in ensuring your safety, hmm?" Arden looked a bit embarrassed, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, Dad, he really did. If it weren''t for him, I might not have made it back here in one piece." With a nod of his head, Aiden turned back to Noah. "You have our gratitude, and I believe some form of recompense is in order." Noah''s eyes widened a bit in surprise. "I appreciate the sentiment, but please, it was my pleasure to help." Aiden chuckled softly. "Young man, it''s only fair. You saved my son from harm. Consider it a token of our gratitude." ... [Quest : Saving the Son of Aiden, changed to Helping the Son of Aiden] The old man Aiden urgently needs help to save his son from the danger. The quest has a duration of 1 day. Reward : 5 Gold and an equipment, changed to 5 Gold or an equipment. Quest is finished! Please choose the reward as you turn in the quest! Do you want to turn the quest in? ... Noah didn''t think much as he chose the equipment unhesitatingly. It was true that gold in this area was very rare, and it was a lot for people in his level. But he knew that he could get gold more later on, while this unknown equipment piqued his interest. Aiden looked at Noah with a smile, "Allow me a moment," he said, rummaging through his items. Finally, Aiden pulled out a wrapped package, carefully handing it to Noah. The package felt slightly heavy, indicating that the item within might have some substance to it. Noah''s curiosity piqued as he unwrapped the package, revealing a beautifully crafted staff. Noah looked in surprise at the sight of the staff. Its design was smooth, with some carvings running along its length. The gem at its tip sparkled with a faint glow. He held it in his hands, feeling the power resonate within the staff. Aiden''s eyes crinkled as he observed Noah''s reaction. "That, my young friend, is the promised equipment. A staff forged by a skilled artisan, meant to aid ones on their journeys." Noah''s gaze shifted from the staff to Aiden, "Thank you, Mr. Aiden. I appreciate this reward of yours..." Aiden extended a hand toward Noah, his weathered face looked softening, "Once again, thank you, young man. You may not have completed the quest as intended, but your actions have had a profound impact on my son''s well-being." Noah shook Aiden''s hand warmly, "It was an honor to help. If there''s ever anything else I can do, please don''t hesitate to ask." He did expect that the equipment that he would get would not be amazing or anything, but this staff that he received indeed surprised him... Chapter 15 : Home Chapter 15 : Home Noah gazed at the well designed staff in his hands. The decision to opt for the equipment instead of coins was not solely based on his personal preference, but also based on understanding of his arsenal, just like in terms of his advantage. The big reason why he unhesitatingly chose the equipment was because he knew that luck could influence the reward of a mission that he got. Especially for the non explicit reward. He had knowledge that luck played a significant role in the outcomes of drops and quests, especially when it came to rewards that were not explicitly stated. So he wanted to test and see if his luck would get something out of this quest. Having a big fat 70 luck, how could he not take advantage of it? With that, his gaze then shifted on the status description of the staff. ... Name : Moonlit Crescent Staff Rarity: Bronze Level Requirement: 30 - 50 Attack Power: +45 Magic Power: +65 Critical Strike Chance: +10% Spell : +15 Spellcasting Speed: +15% Mana Regeneration: +10% per minute Durability: 250/250 Special Effect:
  1. Lunar Resonance: Each successful spellcast grants a 5% chance to activate Lunar Resonance, increasing magic power by 30% for the next spell. Cooldown: 20 seconds.
  2. Celestial Surge: Channel the energy of the moon to unleash a surge of magic, dealing 150% of spell power to a single target. Can be used once per day.
  3. Lunar Resonance - When casting a spell under the moonlight, there is a chance of triggering an additional magical effect based on the moon''s phase.
¡­ As Noah studied the status panel of the Moonlit Crescent Staff, acknowledgement washed over. Bronze rarity! In terms of the known rank of the standard rarity, it ranked below Platinum, Gold, Silver, which after Bronze followed by Iron, Stone, Wood, Sand. He was still level 30 at the moment, where Bronze ranked weapons were rare to find. While the staff fell under the Bronze rarity, its attributes were quite promising. The combination of increased attack and magic power, along with critical strike chance, made it a viable weapon for any mage class, including his Battle Mage class. And this Crescent Moonlit Staff being a niche weapon that was best to be used in the night had its pros and cons. But he always welcomed getting a plethora of weapons. Just like how he defeated Weakened Celestial Watcher where he needed to sacrifice a lot of weapons just to defeat it. That fight truly gave an example of why having a collection of weapons was pretty important for an expert like him. With a smile, Noah turned to Aiden, "Thank you once again, Mr. Aiden. I believe this staff will serve me well in my journey." Aiden''s smile mirrored Noah''s, "I have no doubt about that. Remember, young one, your path is shaped by both your choices and your heart, nah, mind... or you can say both that guide them. Whatever it is, anyway, may your adventure be filled with remarkable moments. I might need to do something after this, so¡­"Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. Noah only nodded at Aiden''s words and bid farewell as he continued to walk away. As he walked for a distance, he heard voices that sounded like ¡®Dad, you should¡¯ve told me, I also suddenly woke up¡­¡¯ ¡®Ahhh¡­ That hurts..!¡¯ ¡®Don¡¯t use the belt¡­!¡¯ ¡®I wanna go home¡­¡¯ He wondered what those voices were, but as he thought that it was nothing important while he heard the last word, he realized that he needed to log off now since it had been a while since he last logged out. Without thinking much, he took an appropriate location to log off and then proceeded to do it. Dinngg As Noah logged out, his eyes shifted from the screen to the real world around him. The soft glow of the virtual world faded, replaced by the gentle illumination of his room. A sigh escaped his lips while he stretched his arms, feeling a satisfying fatigue settle in his muscles. The Second World had held him captive for hours, but now reality beckoned. With a casual motion, he disengaged from the gaming cabinet. The haptic interface, once pulsating with light, grew quiet beneath his touch. Swoosh Noah came out of the gaming cabinet as he yawned a little bit. Rubbing his eyes, his thoughts wandered to the unique class he had acquired, the things he had overcome, and the mysteries he had yet to unveil. He naturally wanted to dive into it deeper. Yet, there were also responsibilities and connections that awaited him outside the immersive Second World. "Alright, time to rest for now¡­" Noah''s voice trailed off, while he came out from his room and went toward his bedroom. ... In a pretty big and impressive house, Noah was seen coming out from it. He appeared to dress neatly and casually, with long trousers and sunglasses on his head. "It''s pretty hot not gonna lie, but I guess I really need to check them." Noah proceeded to enter an SUV car and went off pretty quickly. The warm sun embraced Noah as he got further from his home, a refreshing departure from the dimly lit virtual world he had been immersed in just moments ago. His destination was a business venture that existed entirely outside the confines of the digital realm ¨C a fish distribution store that bore his name. Years ago, Noah had embarked on a journey of the world of entrepreneurship. It was during his younger days that the spark of his business acumen ignited. Armed with a passion for quality and a keen eye for opportunities, he established the foundation of what would become "Finest Fish Emporium" company. His youthful enthusiasm drove him to explore local markets, learn from experienced fishmongers, and gather insights from his own family''s culinary traditions. And his days were naturally made up of busy activities, filled with trials, errors, and countless lessons learned. Noah dedicated his spare time to building connections with suppliers, perfecting his understanding of how supply worked, and experimenting with innovative ways to present his offerings. As years rolled by, Noah''s dedication began to bear fruit. His business evolved from a modest street-side workshop to a well-known establishment that prided itself on quality, variety, and customer satisfaction. The experience he gained through interactions with suppliers, chefs, and customers only fueled his passion further. He had developed an intuition for the ebb and flow of the seafood market, a skill honed through years of dedication. Now, as he stood in his well-established company, reflecting on the journey that had led him to this point, he somehow felt a sense of nostalgia, with a hint of accomplishment. The years of hard work, early birds'' dedications, and continuous learning had culminated in a thriving business that not only provided for him but also connected him with the others. ¡°Hello Boss¡­¡± ¡°Sir, good morning¡­¡± ¡°Such good weather that we have, Boss¡­¡± Stepping into the unassuming office that served as the heart of his fish distribution business, Noah was greeted by a chorus of friendly voices. The space might not have been very vast, nor the team extensive, but the camaraderie and efficiency that permeated the room were evident. The atmosphere was bustling, as employees huddled around desks covered with paperwork, phones ringing intermittently, and the constant hum of productivity filling the air. Noah''s presence elicited smiles and nods from his dedicated team members, each of whom played a crucial role in the operation''s success. With genuine warmth, he exchanged greetings and brief conversations with his employees. They were a diverse group, each contributing their unique skills to various aspects of the business, from sourcing and quality control to customer relations and logistics. It was clear that Noah had fostered unity and purpose among them. "Boss, we''ve received a new shipment of Redfin Trout from the coastal farms," one of the employees informed him, a tablet in hand displaying real-time inventory levels. "Our stock is looking healthy, and the quality checks are all good to go." "Excellent," Noah responded with a nod. "Ensure that the distribution to our clients is timely and seamless. And make sure we''re keeping an eye on the pricing trends, we want to remain competitive as always¡­" Moving on, he approached a desk where two employees were huddled over a map of the city. They were discussing optimal delivery routes and scheduling for the week. He listened for a while and started to give some directions. With this flow, Noah spent quite some time here until the day was showing its changing time. Chapter 16 : The Two Guilds Chapter 16 : The Two Guilds ¡°Ahhh¡­ Home sweet home yea Baby,¡± Noah spoke in satisfaction. He stretched his body, allowing his muscles to loosen up a little. Right after staying in his company for a while, Noah went out to his house right away. Though one thing was that this house was different from the last house. It was still relatively similar in terms of size and value, looking very neat and planned well design wise. Looking at Noah¡¯s appearance, it seemed that he had emerged from his nap. It was just that his cloth was a bit loose for some reason, as if he had just done an exercise. With a little yawn, Noah made his way to his gaming pod, his fingers deftly navigating the controls. Thung Thung¡­ ¡°Hmm¡­ I guess I¡¯ll look over first.¡± Before immersing himself in his endeavour, Noah decided to take a moment to catch up on the latest news and events that were taking place within the game. He also glanced at the notifications, messages, and updates that greeted him, trying to see the ongoing activities and events within the game. And for a while, he navigated the in-game news section, where various updates and announcements were posted for the players to see. These news pieces provided insights into the dynamic environment of the game. As he scrolled through the updates, Noah''s curiosity was piqued by some of the headlines and summaries that appeared on the screen. ... A powerful and elusive world boss known as "Medius Garvala" had emerged in a remote region called Serene Spring. Players from across territories were banding together to form raid parties in an attempt to challenge this formidable adversary. The event promised rich rewards for those who managed to defeat the boss. ... A legendary weapon called the "Blinding Sky Sword" was discovered by a player who had delved deep into a nightmarish dungeon. Some players speculated about the potential strategies, effects, and immense strength that could be had by wielding such a powerful weapon. ... Valiant Wave Guild and Wreaking Havoc Guild were at war at each other. Skirmishes had been going on for a while, and it seemed that the two guilds were preparing for a big battle very soon. ... The first 2 news were big news that scaled on a macro level. Only, the information regarding the two of them told that they were far from where Noah was at. The game world was really spacious and vast after all. Noah would still be able to go to the 2 places, but for what? He would probably lose all chances to take some advantages by the time he got there, and for the second, snatching a Legendary weapon was not easy at all. Especially when his level was still low, as he would still be considered a rookie player. But the third news piqued his interest more. Noah''s attention was drawn to the news article detailing the ongoing guild war between two prominent factions: the Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc. These two guilds had ignited a fierce rivalry that had captured the attention of players in the vicinity. It was simply because Noah was around the vicinity of these two guilds. The ongoing conflict between Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc had reached new heights as they vied for control over key territories, valuable resources, and strategic strongholds within their area of influence. Both guilds had demonstrated impressive teamwork and strategy, which had led to a series of intense battles and shifting allegiances. Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation. Players were closely following the developments of this epic clash, as the outcome of the war would undoubtedly impact the surrounding landscape and the balance of power among the various factions. The rivalry between Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc had sparked competition and excitement in the player community, driving them to align themselves with one of the guilds or spectate the battles from the sidelines. Because Noah was preoccupied with the clue regarding the Unknown Rarity Weaver Class before, he couldn''t really pay any mind to the other players. But now that he got what he wanted to achieve already, he was free. And with that, he decided to go look at this ongoing rivalry first as he wanted to see the war too. Diinngg As the digital world unfolded before him, he felt a familiar rush of light temporarily enveloping him. In a moment, the screen looked like it flickered to brighten up, and he found himself once again in the fantastical realm he had come to know so well. His in-game character, Demerit Liberty, stood ready for action. He proceeded to navigate through the bustling nearby city, where he could sense the heightened tension in the air, and the streets were abuzz with discussions about the ongoing conflict. As he arrived at a central plaza, Noah saw a group of players huddled together, engaged in conversations about the latest battles by the two guilds. Some players were passionately discussing the strengths and weaknesses of each faction, while others were sharing rumors and speculations about potential alliances and such. Approaching the gathering, Noah could overhear snippets of conversations. "Did you hear about the surprise attack Wreaking Havoc launched last night? They managed to infiltrate Valiant Wave''s main fortress and seize a significant portion of their resources." "Yeah, but Valiant Wave retaliated with a counterattack this morning. They reclaimed the territory and inflicted heavy losses on Wreaking Havoc. It''s a back-and-forth struggle." "I heard Nethril Nightshade, the leader of Wreaking Havoc, is planning something big. Some say he''s been gathering support from other guilds." "And Kaelin Stormblade from Valiant Wave? He''s known for his strategic genius. If anyone can turn the tide of this war, it''s him." Amid the conversations, Noah noticed that a nearby notice board was filled with recruitment posters and messages from various guilds. There, he could see the two guilds who were seeking skilled players to bolster their ranks for the ongoing conflict, while others offered lucrative rewards for information about enemy movements or other related things. ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± As Noah observed the players'' interactions, he considered the potential opportunities presented by the guild war. Engaging in the conflict could provide him with valuable things. Examining the information available on the overall levels of the Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc guilds, Noah noted that they were relatively new guilds with members at an average level of around 50. The fact that these guilds were composed mainly of relatively rookie players interested him. The news of bounties placed on members of the rival guilds, Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc, had also caught Noah''s attention. As he considered the potential rewards, a grin crossed his face. The prospect of earning a substantial sum of in-game currency by taking down members of these powerful guilds was quite enticing. He knew that engaging in this endeavor wouldn''t be without risks. Members of both guilds were likely to be highly skilled players with well-developed builds. And that was the thing that he wanted to involve himself with. With his analytical mindset, Noah began to devise a plan. If someone wanted to join in the fun, naturally one would need to consider the potential repercussions of engaging in such actions. After all, being targeted by both guilds could lead to dangerous confrontations, ambushes, and possibly even large-scale battles. Unless one was powerful enough or had other things that could act as a deterrent just like the background for example, it would be unwise to just join the battle blindly. Getting targeted and hunted down by the guilds would be a pain in the arse. Or if one just decided to join one of the two guilds at the get go, involving himself in the battles and all would also be a choice that was worth pondering. Joining a guild would naturally give advantages just like how there would be guild resting barracks, quests with lucrative rewards, member only shops, and many other things. But that would also make one to be obligated in doing tasks employed by the guilds. Just like in this war, they would be needed to join in the battles. A lot of players chose to just stand by and be the spectacles, watching the fun from the sidelines while betting who would emerge victorious. No risks, no penalties. "Alright... it seems blood is going to be spilled out pretty soon then, heh." Noah said with the grin still attached on his face. Chapter 17 : Battle of the Two Chapter 17 : Battle of the Two Noah delved deeper into his investigation, learning that the Valiant Wave guild had established one of its bases of operations in the vibrant town of Eldoria. This town was known for its bustling markets, where players gathered to trade goods, purchase equipment, and share information. The Valiant Wave guild seemed to have chosen this location strategically, perhaps to grasp the town''s resources and forge connections with other players. On the other hand, the Wreaking Havoc guild had set up one of its headquarters in the town of Shadowfen. The farming spot near Shadowfen was a hub of activity, drawing players from all walks of life. Some were on a quest for experience points, battling the creatures that roamed the area to enhance their characters'' abilities. Others were in a grind of valuable equipment and items that the monsters occasionally dropped. This proximity to such a renowned farming location contributed to Shadowfen''s allure. As players engaged in battles and farming, the town itself remained as a captivating backdrop, with shadowy alleys and misty looking streets. "Did you hear? Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc are going at it again!" "I heard there''s a pretty nice bounty on members of both guilds. It''s like a blood feud!" "Someone said they clashed right at the entrance of that farming spot¡­" Noah''s ears perked up as he absorbed these snippets of information. The conflict raging between Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc was a showcase of power, tactics, and ambition, and people naturally were excited to hear such things happening close by. ¡°Interesting¡­¡± It looked like this was the chance Noah had been looking for, an opportunity to observe the dynamics between the two guilds up close and potentially seize an advantage for himself. ¡°Let¡¯s not waste time and get going right away. Would be a shame if I arrive and they gone already right¡­¡± With a keen eye and a mind approximating potential opportunities, he dashed on to the landscape of the guild battle. ... "It should be right there..." Noah muttered under his breath. After Noah looked around and searched for the related information,he swiftly made his way to the battlefield where the Valiant Wave guild clashed with the Wreaking Havoc guild. The clash of spells, the clash of steel, and the cries of battle echoed through the air, drawing the attention of even the unrelated players.. As he arrived at the battlefield, Noah''s eyes took in the chaotic scene before him. The clash was intense, with members of both guilds engaged in fierce combat. The distinct banners of Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc fluttered in the breeze, serving as symbols of their allegiance. ¡°I see¡­¡± Noah''s keen observation skills allowed him to assess the situation swiftly. Valiant Wave members fought with order and unity, each one fulfilling a specific role in the battle. Their strategies were planned, their movements coordinated, and their communication looked pretty efficient. On the other side, the members of Wreaking Havoc displayed a raw and fierce approach. Their attacks were unrelenting, their movements erratic yet deadly, and wanton seemed to be their preferred tactic. "Is this the best Wreaking Havoc can muster? Your attacks are as feeble as your nonexistent strategies!" "You battle like a group of scoutboys, what you talking about bro hahah¡­!" "Your skills lack precision! It''s no wonder you''re called ''Wreaking Havoc'', you can''t even hit your targets!" Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. ¡°Well then how can I hit yo¡­" "Your guild emblem looks like ass!" "Better than yours, designed by a blindfolded blind bastard¡­" ¡­ Amidst the chaos of battle, verbal taunts and insults filled the air as members of the Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc guilds clashed. The exchange of banter and jibes became a peculiar background to the clashes of swords and spells. The taunts flew back and forth, each guild member seemingly attempting to undermine the other''s morale as small as they could. Amidst the clashing weapons and roaring spells, the insults seemed to become another weapon in the arsenal of both sides. ¡°There, huh¡­¡± In the midst of the clash, Noah spotted an opportunity. A group of Wreaking Havoc members had managed to isolate a smaller faction of Valiant Wave players. The Valiant Wave players were putting up a fight, but the odds were clearly against them. This was like the moment Noah had been waiting for. Fwoooshh Noah utilized the unique rarity Chameleon Visage mask to alter his name and appearance, where the mask''s unique power allowed him to shroud his true identity just like before. As the Chameleon Visage enveloped him, Noah''s features shifted and morphed, molding into the persona he had chosen. His in-game name, Demerit Liberty, faded away, replaced by the moniker Straight. His facial characteristics, once familiar to players who might have recognized him, underwent a remarkable transformation, leaving him unrecognizable to those who might encounter him. Diinngg Having assumed the identity of Straight, the mask''s ability had made Noah become a different entity, both in name and form, ensuring that his actions and interactions as Straight would remain distinct from his previous exploits. With this transformation complete, he could navigate the war with anonymity and carefree. "Let''s do this..." Dasshh With his unique skills and his understanding of combat tactics, Straight entered the fray with a quick jump. Baaamm Draanng Krasss¡­ His appearance was unassuming at first, a lone figure in the midst of the chaos. But as he engaged the Wreaking Havoc members, his skills began to shine. Utilizing his versatile Battle Mage abilities and the formidable Lambasting Spear, he turned the tide of the battle. His movements were full of momentum as he struck any enemies that he deemed to be his objectives. The combination of magic and melee combat showcased his mastery over the Battle Mage class. With seemingly each strike of his spear and each burst of magic, Wreaking Havoc members fell before him. As the Wreaking Havoc members were thrown off balance, the isolated Valiant Wave players seized the opportunity to regroup and counterattack. The battlefield shifted, and Noah''s intervention proved instrumental in turning the tide in favor of the Valiant Wave. ¡°Alright not bad¡­¡± In the midst of battle, Straight''s actions bore fruit. He managed to secure valuable drops from fallen Wreaking Havoc members and even claimed bounties set in the system that had been placed on the heads of Wreaking Havoc''s individuals. His actions led him to accumulate items and resources that could prove useful in his endeavour. Amidst the chaos of battle, the members of the Wreaking Havoc guild exchanged startled glances. Straight''s appearance on the battlefield was a jolt of surprise that rippled through their ranks, eliciting a mixture of awe, confusion, and concern. "Who the hell is that?" one of the Wreaking Havoc members exclaimed, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Did they call for backup?" another questioned, eyeing Straight warily as he skillfully battled their comrades. "It doesn''t matter who he is, we can''t let him disrupt our plan!" a more resolute voice bellowed amidst the turmoil. As the members of Wreaking Havoc struggled to comprehend the unexpected turn of events, their initial confidence slightly wavered. The sight of an expert joining the battle, displaying exceptional skill, ignited a feeling of urgency within their ranks. Realization spread that they were dealing with an opponent who was not to be taken lightly at all. "Beware, that spear of his is no joke, he''s enacting magic and combat like it''s second nature!" "We need to regroup and come up with a plan..." Even amidst their surprise, the members of Wreaking Havoc began to adapt, formulating strategies to counter Straight''s unpredictable maneuvers. The sight of an expert player on the battlefield had intensified their struggle to prove their mettle, even in the face of adversity. Draanng Crasssh Kraanng¡­ Yet, as Straight''s relentless assault continued, his powerful movements and high mastery began to create doubts within their ranks. The reality that they were up against a seasoned expert was becoming all too evident. The once-confident exchanges between Wreaking Havoc members gradually wavered. ¡°There he is..!¡± As they were distraught, a group of people came strongly as they surrounded Straight. Chapter 18 : Fight Chapter 18 : Fight Amidst the skirmish, a distinct group clad in imposing armors and wielding formidable weapons emerged from the ranks of a frontliner. Their arrival was marked by a loud sound as they formed a barrier in front of Noah, their armor adorned with the emblem of their guild, Wreaking Havoc. The sudden appearance of this elite force looked like a sign to a shift in the momentum of the battle where Noah was participating in. Their united movements and sharp expressions spoke of a well-coordinated team. Graannggk As they positioned themselves toward Noah, tension rippled through the air, a standoff between two opposing forces each assessing the other''s strengths. "Who''s this guy Straight? And why is he attacking us?" one of the Wreaking Havoc elites demanded, his voice a blend of aggression and curiosity. "I don''t know, but we can''t let him disrupt our mission¡­" another answered, his gaze locked onto Noah''s form. "I bet he is just like the others, he seeks the bounty offered by the Valiant Wave." "Still, he took down our teammates with relative ease. We can''t underestimate him." The elite members of Wreaking Havoc exchanged subtle glances, their collective resolve solidifying as they squared off against Noah. Their armors cladded with little details and bearing the marks of recent looking battles, showcased their allegiance to their guild and their commitment. They then saw the level of Noah, which was 30. 30... Freaking 30 man... When they realized that Noah was only level 30, they were surprised and some even laughed at that. "Look at this guy, thinking he can take us on. What''s your level, newbie? Level 30? Hah, we¡¯re just thinking too much¡­" one of them jeered, a smirk tugging at his lips. "Yeah, he is clearly in over his head. He is just lucky for a few moments before,¡± another added, the disdain evident in his tone. It was understandable why one would think like that. Because level in a lot of situations determined just how far the range of achievement one would have in that person¡¯s endeavor. If a person¡¯s level was low, that would most likely mean that their gears were also on the lower spectrum. And stats would also basically follow along. Especially when this situation was related to the rookie players. After all, high leveled players would not agree with this rule. ¡°Such is life¡­¡± Noah, still masked by his Chameleon Visage, sighed as he listened to their taunts with a calm demeanor. It was evident that they underestimated him based on his apparent level. Though from this, he saw an opportunity in their hubris. Srriiinnk With a fluid motion, Noah readied his unique-rated Lambasting Spear, the glint of steel meeting the flickering light of magic around him. The Chameleon Visage hid his face, but his eyes could relay of his composure and focus. As the Wreaking Havoc elites continued to exchange mocking remarks, they remained looking down onto the spearman in front of them. Dassshh Without warning, Noah lunged forward with a speed that belied their understanding, his movements felt as fast as the wind. Thaannngg¡­ The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. The first elite to taunt him found himself disarmed and incapacitated, his weapons and abilities rendered momentarily useless. In the blink of an eye, Noah had bypassed the defenses of another elite, delivering a swift blow that left the Wreaking Havoc member momentarily stunned. The clash of his weapon echoed as another elite attempted to retaliate, only to be met with Noah''s agile evasion and a follow-up strike that left him reeling. Baang Srinnk Kraanng¡­. The sudden shift from mockery to assault caught the Wreaking Havoc elites off guard. Their initial confidence gave way to panic as they struggled to counter Noah''s relentless onslaught. The disparity in their understanding of their levels, gears, and experience became inapparent as Noah''s skillful maneuvers left a trail of incapacitated adversaries in his wake. "Let''s go!" One of the elites propelled fastly toward Noah, trying to rally his allies. ¡°Arcane Resonance¡­¡±, Noah used a skill gifted from his Lambasting Spear. ¡­ Arcane Resonance - Successful melee attacks with the Lambasting Spear have a chance to generate an Arcane Resonance effect, temporarily increasing user''s spell power for a short duration relative to stats. This effect synergizes with the user''s spellcasting, enhancing the potency of the user''s magical arsenal. Mana Cost: 25 mana per activation ¡­ Noah''s spear became an extension of himself, his swing and thrust enveloped with a hazy crackle. He launched a swift jab, channeling his mana into the Lambasting Spear. Arcane energy crackled along the weapon''s length, and with a graceful flourish, he sent a pulsating shockwave rippling toward his adversaries. The impact sent ripples through the ground, forcing the Wreaking Havoc elites to scatter. He continued a bombardment of elements. A burst of flames surged from the tip of his spear, aimed at the most vulnerable looking targets. A fireball whizzed through the air, striking a Wreaking Havoc member and engulfing him in searing flames. The impact forced a desperate roll to douse the flames, momentarily incapacitating their foe. But Noah''s assault was still relentless. A flow of frost followed, casting a cascade of ice shards upon his opponents. The sudden coldness sapped their movements, slowing them down just enough to give Noah an edge. The freezing frost even encased a Wreaking Havoc warrior in a frigid cocoon, leaving him vulnerable and exposed. ¡°Damn it¡­ Group up to me¡­!¡± Still, the Wreaking Havoc elites were not to be underestimated. Swiftly recovering from their momentary disarray, they retaliated with a coordinated onslaught of their own. Blades glinted in the light as their swords and axes launched toward the lone spearman. Noah''s defenses were tested as he nimbly sidestepped, deflecting blows with the Lambasting Spear in his hand. With that, the fight progressed to erupt in a flurry of skills and offense as Noah engaged the elite members of Wreaking Havoc. With each clash, the battlefield was transformed into a stage of dominance. ¡°Arcane¡­¡± Lightning surged through the air, arcs of electricity zapping towards Noah. He responded with swift agility, invoking a barrier of ice to absorb the electrical onslaught. In the same breath, he unleashed a torrent of arcane energy, Arcane Blast, piercing through enemy defenses and inflicting heavy damage with a short 6 seconds cooldown and 200 mana consumption. Whaammm The powerful wave of concussive force scattered his adversaries like leaves in the wind. The Wreaking Havoc elites, though resilient, began to show signs of weariness. Noah''s strategic assaults were wearing them down, which somehow could exploit their vulnerabilities and disorient their formations. "Come!" Noah shouted as he launched himself toward them once again. The Chameleon Visage concealed his true identity, allowing him to focus solely on the task at hand. The Wreaking Havoc elites, bolstered by their higher levels, had been underestimating the mysterious intruder, their confidence radiated from beneath their gleaming armors. Now, the elites'' initial confidence quickly eroded as Noah''s relentless assault broke through their defenses. One by one, their health bars dwindled, and their once-coordinated movements faltered in the face of Noah¡¯s onslaught. Noah''s proficiency with both magic and melee combat proved to be a one-edged sword for the unsuspecting Wreaking Havoc elites. He unleashed attacks that combined spells and physical strikes, overwhelming those who had expected a Noahforward confrontation. The seamless transitions between his abilities were puzzling their minds, as if he was playing along with their ranks like he was in his own backyard. ¡°Arcane Blast¡­¡± The earth quaked as another tempest of energy erupted from his position, obliterating his surroundings and leaving the enemy forces staggered. Baaaammmm¡­ Explosion occurred as the onlookers couldn''t see clearly because of the smoke. And as the dust settled, the remnants of the Wreaking Havoc guild gazed upon their fallen comrades, realizing that the tide of battle had turned against them. Their initial ease had been shattered, replaced by an undeniable bewilderment. Noah''s unexpected prowess had left them questioning their minds. The disparities between their levels and his defied conventional expectations. His movements were fluid like a calm river yet deadly like a flood, a dance of powerful strikes and agile dodges, all boosted by the synergy of his skills and the potency of his powerful looking spear. Because despite their higher levels, the Wreaking Havoc elites were unable to mount an effective defense against Noah''s assaults. Especially when it was 1 against many¡­ Chapter 19 : Loot Chapter 19 : Loot With the echoes of battle fading, the Wreaking Havoc members slowly began to regain their composure, surveying the aftermath of the skirmish. But their gazes fell upon an empty space where Noah had once stood, his absence a display to his swift departure. Brows furrowed and expressions marred with wonder, they exchanged puzzled glances. "Where did he go?" one of them muttered, the disbelief in his voice echoing the sentiment of the group. "He was just here, taking down our members one by one... Did he run away?" another questioned, frustration lacing his tone. "He couldn''t have just vanished like that, right? He was no match for us, after all!" a third exclaimed, shaking his head in disbelief. ¡°We should¡¯ve not underestimate him, if we take him on right off the bat, I believe we can take him down easily¡­!¡± The area remained silent, save for the rustling of leaves in the aftermath of the battle. The Wreaking Havoc elites exchanged uncertain looks, with their confidence still shaken by the encounter. What had initially seemed like an opportunity to showcase their dominance had turned into a fumbling experience, as they were forced to acknowledge the unexpected prowess of their mysterious adversary. As they continued to scan their surroundings for any trace of Noah a bit more, the realization finally settled in, the masked spearman had slipped away as effortlessly as he had arrived. As the Wreaking Havoc elites puzzled over the sudden disappearance of Noah, a collective gasp and sigh escaped their lips as they understood the extent of his action. Their confused expressions turned to dismay as they glanced around the battlefield, only to find the loot that had once belonged to their fallen comrades had vanished alongside the damn spearman. "He took our drops too¡­?" One of them exclaimed. "It can''t be... How did he manage to grab everything and disappear so quickly?" another muttered, his frustration growing. "****..." A sense of defeat gnawed at them, not just from the battle itself but also from the realization that they had been outwitted by an opponent they had initially underestimated. Noah had managed to not only hold his own against them but had seized the opportunity to capitalize on their fallen allies'' drops before vanishing into who knew where he went to. Murmurs of exasperation and annoyance rippled through the group as they pondered the swift turn of events. Now their dismay had been replaced by a grudging gnaw for the elusive player who had taken advantage of them. The battle had revealed that there were players who could transcend the conventional limits of levels, specially lower levelled players. ¡­ No, to be more exact, they knew that there would be some individuals who could do that exceeding feat, but they just didn¡¯t expect to meet them here seemingly randomly like this. ¡­ Perched atop a hill overlooking the aftermath of the battle, Noah''s lips curled into a satisfied grin. He watched as the members of Wreaking Havoc scrambled to salvage their face and loot from the battlefield, their frustration and confusion clear even from a distance. The wind tousled his armors as he leaned casually against the boulder behind him, seemingly relishing the moment of his triumph. The encounter had gone pretty much as he expected. Not only had he managed to disrupt the guild war, but he had also snatched away the spoils of their conflict right from under their noses. It was a small victory, but one that brought a feeling of accomplishment. Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original. Noah''s gaze was steady, his eyes still tracing the movements of the Wreaking Havoc members below. He could almost hear their bitter conversations and imagined the looks of vexation on their faces. They had miscalculated him, dismissed him as a mere opportunist looking for easy loot. And that had been their moment of stumbling upon a sharp stone. With a chuckle, Noah pushed away from the hill and began descending, his spear staff tapping lightly against the ground with every glide so often. As he stepped down from the hill, the distant echoes of the previous people''s voices grew fainter. "Alright, one objective is down." Straight aka Noah muttered under his breath. He knew that his actions wouldn''t go unnoticed. The players of Wreaking Havoc would remember him, and his actions might even spark a new layer of rivalry between the guilds. And he understood the current delicate balance that existed between the two rival guilds, Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc. And that was the point. The balance of such conflicts was what he aimed for. When he observed the battle between the guild members, Noah recognized that Wreaking Havoc held an advantage over Valiant Wave before. This advantage could potentially tip the scales in their favor, disrupting the equilibrium he hoped to exploit. In order to ensure a more balanced outcome, one where both guilds were forced to reckon with each other on equal terms, he moved to intervene. His decision to seize the loot dropped by the fallen Wreaking Havoc members wasn''t solely about the desire of loot, it was also about asserting his presence, showing that he could disrupt their plans and strip them of their resources. In doing so, he aimed to foster a sense of uncertainty and chaos within the guilds, ensuring that they would approach their conflict with more caution. Because with caution, they would be slower. And being slow, he could take advantage of his ability to move around better. ¡°Sigh¡­¡± But looking at the current grin on his expression, it was hard to tell whether the bigger reason was that he wanted some smoke¡­. He used an alternative identity so he could practically do whatever he wanted. Among the spoils that Noah had acquired from the fallen members of Wreaking Havoc were an assortment of silver coins and various equipment pieces. As he inspected his new treasures, his mind began to decipher the value of each item. The silver coins, while not exceedingly rare, were a valuable currency in the game. They could be used to purchase items, services, and even enhance equipment. Noah understood that amassing wealth in the Second World could provide him with an array of advantages, from acquiring rare items to securing influential allies. Among the equipment loot, there were several stone and iron rarity items. While these might not have been the most prestigious rarities, they still held value, especially for players at Noah''s level. Stone and iron rarity equipment could offer useful stat bonuses, enhancing his combat capabilities and overall effectiveness. ... Minor Potions: Bottles filled with healing or mana-restoring elixirs, these minor potions could provide a quick boost in the heat of battle. While not as potent as their higher-tier counterparts, they were still essential for extending one''s survivability in combat. Basic Enchanting Scrolls: These scrolls contained simple enchantments that could be applied to weapons or armor to grant them additional attributes or effects. While not as powerful as the enchantments found on higher-tier scrolls, they still offered a means of customization. Light Leather Armor Pieces (Wood rarity) : Components of leather armor, these pieces were of wood-stone rarity, suitable for lower-level players. Crafters and armorers could use these materials to create protective gear for adventurers seeking to bolster their defenses. ... Those are basically the examples of the loot that he got from the Wreaking Havoc. Noah then also turned in his kill bounties that were put forward in the system by the Valiant Wave guild. A significant amount of silver coins was rewarded as the prize. The reward amounted to around 100 silvers, a very substantial sum for a normal player of his level. "Little by little toward a mountain of gold after all..." Noah shook his head with a little smile. Noah''s gaze shifted from the spoils of his recent treasure to the direction of the Valiant Wave members. They were engaged in their own confrontation against the other forces of Wreaking Havoc. Even though Noah had killed some of Wreaking Havoc members, his numbers were not shift tipping after all. The battlefield was chaotic, with bursts of spells, weapons, and formations, creating a fierce looking scene. One could easily tell that Valiant Wave now had the advantage over Wreaking Havoc. "Alright, about time for you to get the same treatment now," Noah smirked as he disappeared from his current location. Chapter 20 : Your Turn Chapter 20 : Your Turn Noah''s momentum was still on fever as he made his way toward the tumultuous battleground where the members of Valiant Wave were locked in fierce combat with their opponent, Wreaking Havoc. His eyes remained sharp as he navigated the chaotic scene. He had observed the back-and-forth banter and clashes between the two guilds, and now it was his turn to make another entrance. As he neared the battle, the clash of weapons and spells grew louder, each echo a sign to the intensity of the confrontation. Noah''s heart raced a little bit, the thrill of combat surging to him. His Battle Mage pulsed with energy, ready to unleash its power upon his adversaries. ¡°Let¡¯s¡­¡± With a pretty excited expression, he raised his unique Lambasting Spear. His purpose was clear: to level the playing field and ensure that neither guild gained an upper hand. Braaannnggkkk.. As he jumped in the midst of the battle, the eyes of both friend and foe turned toward him. With a burst of energy, he activated his battle skills, combining magic and melee into a seamless dance of destruction. ¡°Come¡­!¡± Baammm¡­ With a deft flick of his spear, Noah conjured a swirling orb of flames. The fireball streaked through the air, leaving a trail of scorching heat in its wake. It collided with a group of Valiant Wave members, erupting in a burst of fire and searing their armor. The enemies staggered back, their shouts of puzzlement echoing amid the flames. As the smoke cleared from the fireball''s explosion, Noah''s spear shifted with an electric charge. He directed his focus skyward, gathering lightning from the sky. With a powerful thrust, he released a bolt of lightning that crackled through the air, striking a Wreaking Havoc warrior with unrelenting force. The lightning arced to nearby foes, leaving them stunned and sizzling. ¡°Ahh¡­¡± ¡°Damn.. my HP¡­¡± ¡°There¡­!¡± Noticing something, Noah swung his spear in a wide arc, creating a shimmering barrier of ice in front of him with a swift motion. Bing Whammm Tranngg¡­ Noah''s movements were fluid as he shifted his attention to defense to contend against the incoming missile attacks coming toward him. The ice formed a protective shield, deflecting incoming arrows and spells from the Valiant Wave players. The enemies'' attacks were met with frosty resistance, and Noah took advantage of the momentary respite. Dasshh He took the momentum by advancing toward a group of melee users. He brandished his spear sideways and thwarted their foundations and positions. The ones who got attacked felt like their arms becoming numb as they defended against the attack. And for those who got the sharp end of the spear, they saw their HP dwindled down rapidly. Drawing upon the arcane energies coursing through his spear staff, he conjured his power into a dazzling sphere of magic, a swirling vortex of energy that pulsed with raw might. With a thrust of his spear, he unleashed an Arcane Blast upon a group of clustered enemies. The explosion of arcane force sent them hurtling through the air, their health bars plummeting down. Diinnngg¡­ With a momentary pause in the heat of combat, he invoked Mana Surge. A soothing flow of energy washed over him, revitalizing his magic reserves and replenishing his mana to cast his skills. Caught off guard by the sudden appearance and ferocious assault of Noah, the Valiant Wave members found themselves plunged into a state of disarray and confusion. The battlefield, once a battleground for two opposing guilds, now became a chaotic maelstrom. Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. ¡°Who the hell is that guy?!¡± ¡°Get him!¡± ¡°Bring that bastard down first¡­¡± With that, they surrounded the spearman with a lot of units. That was the easiest plan as they got the numbers to make up the deficit. But as the Valiant Wave members tried desperately to counter Noah''s onslaught, they realized that they were facing a tough adversary. Noah''s presence became undeniable. His opponents felt the weight of his expertise and power, their ranks in a mess as they struggled to match his prowess with each attack. Bit by bit, their orders were scattered, their morale became lower, and their once-formidable defenses rendered ineffective in the face of Noah''s sudden assault. The battlefield was strewn with fallen warriors, a witness to the power and prowess of a single individual who had made a mess out of their ranks. The Valiant Wave recognized his actions as a turning point in the battle, the tide beginning to shift but unfortunately not in their favor. The elite members of the Valiant Wave, drawn by the commotion and eager to avenge their fallen comrades, now converged on the scene with fast strides and stunned expressions. They were clad in their formidable armor and wielding their impressive weapons, exuded an aura of confidence and power. Their numbers were fewer, but their skills were honed to a razor''s edge. The levels were also around 40 or 50, the same levels just like the elites of the Wreaking Havoc that Noah had faced before. "Now, it''s your turn..." Noah''s voice trailed off toward the end as his spear thrusted into one of the elites. His spear was fast which caught the attacked elite off guard. He tried to avoid the spear but unfortunately, Noah was able to pierce this man and dealt a fatal damage. Baanng Kraanngg Sriinngg¡­ As the clash of steel and the crackling of spells resounded, a fierce battle erupted anew. Noah''s Lambasting Spear moved with blinding speed and precision, intercepting enemy strikes and launching his own deadly counterattacks. His spellworks continued to bombard them when left unattended, forcing the elite members of the Valiant Wave to be ever-vigilant in their defenses. The battlefield became more chaotic, with Noah''s opportune movements and versatile combat style keeping his adversaries off balance. Noah''s resourcefulness became his greatest asset. When his mana reserves began to wane, he channeled his inner strength to continue fighting using his spear. His control over the elements and his impactful spear strikes formed a combination that was proven to be hard to handle. "Did anyone even manage to land a proper hit on him!?" "He took on all of us at once and barely broke a sweat... This isn''t how I thought this would go down¡­" "Is he some sort of hidden expert? I personally have never heard of him before¡­?" Despite their elite status, the Valiant Wave members found themselves hard-pressed to overcome the relentless assault of Noah. His lethal maneuvers and execution forced them to retreat, regroup, and contemplate their every approach. Each powerful strike, each evasive avoidance, showcased his prowess and made it clear that this was absolutely no ordinary opponent. The elite members of the Valiant Wave were forced to acknowledge that their adversary possessed a level of skill and finesse that overwhelmed them. Noah''s ability to adapt and counter their attacks was proof to his experience and expertise in battle. As the battle kept waged on, the members of Valiant Wave began to realize that they were up against a player that was above their league. The elite members of the Valiant Wave especially had suffered significant losses and their morale had taken a blow. Their initial confidence had been shaken by the seemingly relentless assault of Noah, whose reputation as a powerful combatant had been solidified on the battlefield. Whaammm¡­. An Arcant Blast was just being sent over to their ranks and they were scattered like bees. Smoke and sands were raised because of the powerful attack sent by the lone spearman. Step¡­ Step¡­ Step¡­ And as the dust settled once again, the remaining members of Valiant Wave cast wary glances toward Noah and took a few steps back, the unknown warrior who had single-handedly withstood their onslaught and emerged calmly from within the smoke. His presence was like a reminder that the battlefield was a place that could tip just in a matter of minutes. As the battle drew to a close where Noah put a distance over them, the field was already strewn with fallen foes. "He''s just a single player! How could he dismantle us like that¡­?" "I can''t believe we underestimated the Wreaking Havoc, that was a serious mistake..." "I thought we had the upper hand before¡­ Now we''re the ones on the defensive..." The members exchanged glances, their expressions revealing a mixture of frustration and concern. The whispers of doubt spread like wildfire as they contemplated the implications of their defeat. Amidst the frustration, questions and theories abounded, each member trying to make sense of what had just transpired. Their confidence had been shattered, and the reality that their opponent was no ordinary player was a tough pill to swallow. And at this point, a person that looked to be a commander in the battlefield looked over with his sharp eyes. Chapter 21 : Retreat Chapter 21 : Retreat The Commander of the Valiant Wave guild stood in the midst of his members, his expression a blend of frustration, concern, and deep thought. He listened intently as his guild members recounted the unexpected intrusion and subsequent defeat at the hands of an unknown player named Straight. His eyes flickered here and there as he absorbed the information. The Commander was well aware of the significance of this encounter, recognizing that it had not only exposed their vulnerability but also threatened the balance of power they had worked to establish in the battle. "So, a single player managed to break through our ranks and defeat some of our elites," he muttered, his voice carrying a weight that demanded attention. "We need to gather all the information we can about this player, Straight. Right now." The members nodded in agreement, their expressions serious. The Commander was known for his tactical acumen and foresight, and his reaction now was a mirror to the gravity of the situation. "We just underestimated him Commander Kael," one member admitted, his frustration evident. "He took us by surprise, and before we knew it, we had been washed away by the moment..." The Commander named Kael gaze swept over his guild members, his demeanor firm but still remaining thoughtful. "It''s clear that we can''t take him lightly. If he''s managed to achieve such a feat, there''s a reason behind it. I see that being strong is enough of a reason." The one who said before was about to say something but then remained tongue tied. It was clear that he believed they or even he could defeat him, but he didn''t dare to say anything at the moment. Kael paused for a moment, his mind clearly racing through the possibilities. "We''ll gather as much information as we can about Straight. His background, his backing, or maybe even his reason of power. I believe he had a powerful item on his side, or maybe he got an advancement in tier. We''ll analyze what we can." The members exchanged glances. They understood that their Commander''s words carried a directive to assess and adapt, so they could only follow the orders. "Our reputation is on the line," Kael continued. "We can''t afford to let one player disrupt our plans or threaten our standing. Let''s turn this setback into an opportunity to strengthen our guild for now..." The members nodded. The Commander''s words resonated with them, igniting their drive to work collectively to regain their position and reputation in the public. The Commander turned to survey the battlefield where the skirmish had unfolded. With a steely walk, he began to outline a plan of action. ¡­ ¡°Hmmm¡­¡± Kael''s sharp gaze swept over his guild members as he processed the information that he had. "We will retreat," Commander Kael ordered, his voice carrying authority. "Regroup at a safe distance. We need to assess the situation and gather our forces." His mind was already forming a conclusion, and he knew that a tactical retreat was the wisest course of action at this point. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website. ¡°What¡­¡± ¡°How could we even do that?¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t this too soon of a decision, Commander?¡± Murmurs of frustration and disappointment could be heard among them. The idea of a retreat was met with resistance, as some members were concerned about how it might be perceived by their rivals and the gaming community at large as losing the battle. Kael, however, wasn''t one to let pride cloud his judgment. He understood the flow of the situation and the need for a safer approach. Putting his hand on the table, he addressed his members with a calm yet authoritative voice. "I know that a retreat might not sit well with some of you," Kael began, his eyes meeting the gaze of his guild members. "But remember, our goal is not just to prove ourselves in a single battle, but to secure our place as a formidable force in this area. We cannot let our emotions guide our decisions." He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing, "Retreating doesn''t mean defeat. It means we are regrouping to fight another day. And when we do, we will be better prepared, armed with knowledge about our opponent''s tactics." He pointed towards the battlefield they had just left with his thumb, "Look at what happened today. Underestimating our opponent cost us. We cannot afford to repeat that mistake. Our strength lies in our unity, our strategy, and our understanding of our own feats. This retreat is not a retreat in the face of defeat. It''s a tactical decision to ensure our victory in the long run. We will gather information for now, analyze our opponent''s strengths and weaknesses, and come back to take what is ours. Our rivals may celebrate this small victory, but mark my words, being safe is better than being sorry.¡± Silence then followed his words. The members exchanged glances, and slowly, the initial resistance began to fade. They realized that Commander Kael''s reasoning was sound, and that their guild''s reputation was built on solid decisions, not impulsive actions. ¡­ The members quickly obeyed as they but by bit began to withdraw from the battlefield. Commander Kael watched as his guild members moved slowly, their retreat looked like a well-executed maneuver. As the Valiant Wave members regrouped, Commander Kael''s mind was already at work. He enacted a forum with his direct underlings, made up in a relatively secured position. "We need to know more about our adversary," Kael said, "This player Straight has proven to be a formidable player. I¡¯d like to know more about him.¡± His lieutenants acknowledged his words. Kael paused for a while, allowing his words to sink in among the guild members. Kael''s gaze remained fixed on the battlefield¡¯s direction for a moment longer before he turned away, and somehow his eyes had glints appearing. "One of the commanders of Wreaking Havoc is known to be strong, and we have a rare opportunity here. By letting Straight face off against him, we''ll be able to gauge both their strengths and powers¡­" ¡°Ahh¡­¡± ¡°You mean¡­¡± A murmur of understanding rippled through the group as they absorbed Kael''s words. "Our main goal isn''t just to defeat Wreaking Havoc in this battle, we aim for long-term dominance, and to achieve that, we need to understand our rivals thoroughly. We''ll use this retreat to observe Wreaking Havoc''s Commander''s fighting style." Kael explained the true purpose behind their tactical retreat. "With the way we retreat, I believe they will be meeting with each other soon, and I also believe in Straight''s prowess to test that man, and this battle will give us valuable insights. Be strategic in our approach, as you need to always look at the bigger picture." He addressed his members directly, his tone rallying them for what lay ahead. With a nod, Commander Kael led his guild members to another secure location where they could watch the situation better. The battle might have taken an unexpected turn, but Commander Kael seemed to have an expression that he was open with the ongoing situation. ... Meanwhile, at a certain place, Noah stood up against a certain man, where looked at the Paladin in front of him interestingly. Chapter 22 : Fighting the Commander Chapter 22 : Fighting the Commander Standing on the battlefield, Straight aka Noah''s gaze was fixed on the approaching members Wreaking Havoc. The air was somehow full of tense nuance, both sides ready for each other. Noah seemed to have a smirk appearing on his face. ¡°What do we have here¡­¡± As the Wreaking Havoc members drew closer, their footsteps resonated like a war drum. Their eyes held a mix of curiosity and wariness, as if they couldn''t believe the audacity of this lone warrior who dared to challenge their guild. Noah''s face remained hidden beneath a helmet, in which his true appearance was hidden beneath the Chameleon Visage. The members of Wreaking Havoc were equipped in formidable gear, their weapons glinting in the sunlight. They formed a semi-circle, surrounding Noah as if assessing him from all angles. Murmurs also started to ripple through their ranks, speculating about the unknown assailant before them. The tension in the air grew higher when suddenly, one member stepped forward, a tall figure adorned in dark armor with a wickedly curved blade at his side. This was the Commander of Wreaking Havoc, a man who had gained a fearsome reputation in the Second World. Noah looked at the man with his discerning eyes. He could see that this man was one of the main members from this Wreaking Havoc guild, if not one of the strongest ones. Step Step Step¡­ Step¡­ As the Commander of Wreaking Havoc came to a stop, his gaze locked onto Noah''s face, an interest and a question gestured in his eyes. "You''ve got guts, I''ll give you that," the Commander spoke, his voice carrying an air of authority and confidence. "But I don''t know you, and I don''t take kindly to intruders. Especially those who meddle in the way." The Commander of Wreaking Havoc was known as Onyxium. He was a skilled and pretty much ruthless one, feared by many players. Noah remained silent, his grip on his spear staff relaxed as he readied himself. Fwosh¡­ The wind rustled through the surrounding trees, a quiet anticipation building up over the battlefield. Grashhh¡­ Without further warning, the Commander of Wreaking Havoc launched into action. He moved with a grace that belied his heavy armor, his blade gleaming as it arced through the air towards Noah. Noah''s reflexes kicked in, and he raised his spear staff to meet the strike. Claankks¡­ The clash of metal against steel resonated, sending shockwaves through the air. ¡°Come¡­!¡± Noah summoned a ball of fire into his hand and hurled it toward Onyxium. The fireball exploded on impact, engulfing the area in flames and causing burning damage over time if inflicted. Onyxium invoked a light shield that shimmered with radiant energy, deflecting Noah''s incoming attacks. The shield absorbed the impact of blows, reducing the damage dealt to him. Noah extended his hands and conjured his magical energy into the ground. Whaammm¡­ The earth trembled as a wave of flames surged forth, engulfing Onyxium in searing fire that inflicted continuous damage. ¡°Hmph¡­!¡± Onyxium snorted as he bore the attack of Noah. His judgment was swift and decisive. He raised his weapon high, calling upon the forces of light to empower his attack. A searing beam of light energy shot toward Noah, dealing both physical and light damage. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. With a gesture, Noah conjured a bolt of lightning that streaked toward Onyxium, electrifying the air. The lightning struck with incredible speed, delivering both electrical damage and a chance to stun the target temporarily. Booommm The two attacks met and created an explosion. ... The two warriors engaged in a fierce exchange of blows for a few moments. The Commander of Wreaking Havoc displayed mastery over his weapon, his attacks were like a barrage of cannons. But Noah''s movements were equally fluid, a dance of skill and strategy as he deflected and countered the incoming attacks. The battle raged on, the clash of their weapons echoing in the air. Yet still, in a glance, Noah''s mastery of the Battle Mage skills and his unique Lambasting Spear gave him an advantage from the spectator¡¯s perspective, allowing him to seamlessly switch between magic and melee combat easily. ¡°Avenging Wrath¡­!¡± Onyxium''s eyes blazed with light-element fury as he activated his skill. Whooomm A reddish yellow light enveloped him for a few seconds, and suddenly his attacks became faster and more powerful. It looked as if Onyxium''s anger fueled his strikes, where the clash of his weapon against Noah''s spear staff echoed with a ferocity that matched his emotions. "You think such a random guy like you can meddle in my guild''s affairs and walk away like a bastard!? " Onyxium snarled. His weapon glowed with holy light as he did a swift and powerful strike. The strike carried not only physical force but also a burst of fire looking energy that burned against Noah''s defenses. Panngg Srriinng Krasshh¡­ Noah was still able to parry Onyxium''s strikes with deft precision, thankfully or not. His spear staff twirled in a dazzling display of skill as he deflected Onyxium''s onslaught. Ksshhhh¡­ He erected a barrier of ice in front of him, providing temporary protection from Onyxium''s attacks. The ice absorbed some of the incoming damage while slowing down the movements of those who dared to approach. Sensing his mana reserves a bit dwindling, Noah tapped into his inner reserves to trigger a Mana Surge. This ability rapidly regenerated his mana, allowing him to continue unleashing his skills. Diiinng¡­ ¡°Go¡­¡± Gathering arcane energy, Noah unleashed a powerful blast that tore through the air and struck Onyxium. The blast carried arcane damage, bypassing conventional defenses and potentially disorienting the target. In a moment of peril, Onyxium called upon the Blessing of Protection. A shimmering aura surrounded him, rendering him immune to harm for a brief duration. It allowed him to reposition and plan his counterattack. ¡­ The members of Wreaking Havoc watched in astonishment as the masked warrior held his own against their Commander. They had expected a brief encounter, not a battle of such intensity. The Commander''s attacks were fierce, but Noah''s resourcefulness and adaptability kept him in the fight. With each skill, Onyxium exhibited the expertise of a Paladin. His mastery of defensive techniques allowed him to endure Noah''s ongoing assaults while retaliating with potent strikes infused with the light element of a power. While Noah''s abilities as a Battle Mage were dynamic and versatile. He weaved spells into his melee attacks, creating a synergy between his magic and his spear. The battlefield transformed into a spectacle of elemental forces as fire, lightning, ice, and arcane energies clashed against Onyxium''s steadfast defenses and attacks. The confrontation between their combat styles intensified, leaving an indelible mark on the battlefield. Time seemed to blur as the battle continued, both sides locked in a fierce struggle for dominance. ¡°Damn, who the hell is this Straight?¡± ¡°He can even fight with the Commander like this¡­? ¡°Why does it look like the Commander is on the losing end¡­¡± The onlookers, mostly from Wreaking Havoc were simply stunned by the unexpected turn of events. Noah, a player of lower level, was putting up a fierce fight against Onyxium, the seasoned Commander of their guild who was at a significantly higher level. Noah who around level 30 was able to hold his ground against Onyxium who was around level 50. Despite the Paladin class being considered a powerful advancement for warriors, the onlookers were astounded to witness Noah''s relentless assault overwhelming Onyxium, who himself was a Paladin. The battle between the two skilled combatants truly defied conventional expectations. Kraasshh Claankk Whammm¡­ As Noah skillfully employed his Battle Mage abilities and clashed with Onyxium''s Paladin skills, the onlookers couldn''t help but be swept up in the intensity of the fight. The clash of magical and physical prowess created a spectacle that held everyone''s attention, while the surrounding atmosphere seemed to pulse with the energy of their conflict. "Enough! It''s time to end this!" Onyxium''s voice reverberated through the battlefield as he summoned forth a bright looking technique. He channeled the holy energy within him, gathering it into a radiant sphere of blinding light that hovered at his palm. Chapter 23 : Lay Defeated Chapter 23 : Lay Defeated ¡°Light Retribution!¡± Onyxium''s voice cut through the air as he declared an end to the battle. In a display of power, he unleashed his trump card looking move. This ultimate ability was a Paladin-exclusive skill that drew upon the very essence of light energy to deliver a devastating blow to the opponents. Oooommmm As the skill activated, an aura of radiant light enveloped Onyxium, intensifying until he seemed almost like a figure of light''s wrath incarnate. His armor shimmered with an otherworldly brilliance, and his weapon gleamed with a renewed look and vigor. Noah, recognizing the ongoing light resurgence, braced himself for the impending attack. He knew that Light Retribution was a formidable skill that could turn the tide of a battle. The ground beneath them seemed to tremble as Onyxium absorbed the light energy, preparing to release it in a focused, powerful strike. As Onyxium''s Light Retribution, a wave of radiant energy surged forth and was ready to engulf Noah, he held over his Lambasting Spear a little bit sideways using his right hand while his left hand hanging above it. ¡°Elemental Channeling.¡± With a calm motion, he enacted a technique embedded in his weapon. ... Elemental Channeling - The Lambasting Spear can channel user''s elemental spells, imbuing each thrust with the power of fire, ice, or lightning. Depending on the element channeled, the spear''s attacks gain additional effects, such as causing burn, freeze, or electrocute status on foes. Mana Cost: 30 mana per thrust ... As his hands gripped the Lambasting Spear, it hummed with power, resonating with the elemental energies that flowed through it. Noah''s aura shifted, reflecting the infusion of lightning might. Gleaming symbols danced along the length of his weapon, and his form seemed to blur as he went forward with great momentum. ¡°What is that?¡± ¡°The commander is using that move!¡± ¡°That guy is going to be finished now¡­¡± ¡°I think that¡¯s a bit early for you to conclude, you Wreaking Havoc bastard, heh.¡± ¡°What did you say *******?¡± Despite some who were seemingly about to crash out to merry the big fight, the onlookers couldn¡¯t help but hold their breath, captivated by the impending clash of might between these two formidable combatants. It was a moment that would probably decide the outcome of this intense confrontation, and the spectators could feel the weight of its significance. ¡°Die!¡± Onyxium conjured the light energy toward Aron¡¯s direction in great speed and power, throwing it with the slash of his sword greatly. ¡°Come¡­!¡± In response to the impending clash of forces, the elemental energies within the Lambasting Spear surged outward, creating a swirling vortex of energy around Noah as he thrusted his spear staff a few times. Bhhhaaaammmm¡­ The incoming radiant blast met this whirlwind of lightning head-on, resulting in a mesmerizing display of intertwining energies. The collision created a shockwave that sent ripples through the battlefield, pushing back the onlookers and creating a buffer zone between the two combatants. This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there. The clash of power was intense and held an equilibrium for a brief moment. Noah''s technique, allowed him to temporarily hold his own against the overwhelming force of Onyxium''s Light Retribution. The battlefield was awash in a picture of brilliance and arcane hues as the energies struggled for dominance. Kraaaaasskkkksss¡­ As the clash continued, the very energy of the battlefield seemed to quiver under the weight of their combined might, as if the very elements themselves were locked in. And finally, the fierce clash between Noah''s Elemental Channeling and Onyxium''s Light Retribution reached its climax. Onyxium''s formidable Light Retribution wavered for a few seconds and before shattered against the piercing of Noah''s spear staff. The clash created a blinding burst of light that engulfed the battlefield for an instant, leaving everyone momentarily blinded. Krasshh¡­ The brilliance faded, and the aftermath revealed the fallen form of Onyxium. His health bar had plummeted to a fraction of its initial strength, a mere sliver remaining. The onlookers, mostly from Wreaking Havoc members and some of Valiant Wave members, stared in disbelief at the scene before them. The revered commander, renowned for his strength, lay defeated on the ground by an opponent of lower level. In the end, it was evident that Noah had managed to overcome the Commander''s formidable attack. Onyxium, the Commander of Wreaking Havoc, his form battered and his health dwindling to a mere fraction of its former strength. The intense battle had taken its toll, and his once-commanding presence had been subdued by the power and mastery of the young warrior before him. As the onlookers watched in stunned silence, the realization dawned upon them that the tides of battle had shifted. The formidable commander, with his Paladin class and mighty abilities, higher levels to boot, had been bested by a player whose level was significantly lower. Whispers of astonishment rippled through the crowd, their faces a mix of shock and surprise. "No! This can''t be!" Onyxium''s furious voice echoed across the battlefield. His face contorted in disbelief and frustration. He clenched his fists, his armor radiating a soft light as he struggled to comprehend his defeat. The very notion of being overpowered by someone of lower rank left him seething with wrath. The Wreaking Havoc members who had witnessed their commander''s fall were equally astounded. The image they had held of Onyxium as an invincible player in this battlefield had been shattered in an instant. Curses and exclamations of astonishment rippled through the crowd of Wreaking Havoc members. They had witnessed their formidable commander fall before the unexpected prowess of a lower-leveled adversary. Doubt and confusion filled the air as they grappled with the reality before them. Noah, visibly heaving a sigh from the encounter, stood tall amidst the aftermath of the clash. The Lambasting Spear in his hand still hummed with the residual energies of his clash. The weight of the moment hung in the air, where even those who had doubted his prowess were now forced to acknowledge his strength. Onyxium''s defeat was a resounding proof to Noah''s skill and prowess. The battlefield that had once been a battleground for guild warfare now bore witness to a personal achievement, as Noah emerged victorious against common understanding. Onyxium''s countenance shifted from disbelief to boiling anger. His eyes blazed with indignation as he glared at Noah, his hands clenched into tight fists. His breaths came out in furious huffs as he struggled to process the outcome before him. "How is this possible¡­?" Onyxium''s voice trembled. He had always prided himself on his strength and his tankiness as a Paladin. And yet, here he stood, defeated by an opponent of lower level in just one crash of cards. Curses escaped Onyxium''s lips as he struggled to comprehend the humiliation he was experiencing. "F***... This can''t be happening... A mere novice, a lower leveled upstart, besting me?" His words dripped with venom with his face in a storm of emotions ranging from rage to embarrassment. Because whether he wanted it or not, the victory of a lower-leveled adversary against Onyxium reverberated like a shockwave through the gathered crowd. Doubt and insecurity crept into the hearts of the Wreaking Havoc members, their confidence in their own strength wavering. And amidst the astonishment, For Noah though, this triumph seemed to be expected. The hard work he had put into honing his skills and mastering his Lambasting Spear had paid off easily. As the dust of the battle settled and Onyxium''s furious roars subsided into a simmering frustration, Noah looked over toward the surrounding players calmly. "Enough of this insolence! Attack him, all of you! Do not allow this upstart to mock us any further!" Onyxium''s voice reverberated through the chaotic battleground, cutting through the stunned silence that had settled after his defeat. His words woke up the players from the daze and galvanized the Wreaking Havoc members, reigniting their spirit to overcome this unexpected setback. Onyxium''s rage burned hotter than ever, fueled by the searing humiliation of his defeat. His orders rang out with a thunderous authority as the command for his guild members to assail Noah became clear. ¡°Ohh¡­¡± Noah glanced around at the people who prepared themselves to surround him altogether in amusement. Chapter 24 : Not Enough Chapter 24 : One Player Stands "Let''s go¡­!" "Oooohhhh!" The battle cry resounded through the air, carrying with it the urgency of the situation. A rallying call that sounded to unite and incite themselves in their pursuit of glory. With a callback fervor, the Wreaking Havoc members pressed to deploy their assault against Straight. ¡°Come!¡± Whaammmm¡­ Against the overwhelming numbers, Straight stood his ground with a grin. With a flick of his wrist, Straight summoned elemental barriers that deflected incoming spells and reduced the impact of physical attacks. Elemental barriers sprang to life, their translucent forms pulsing with raw energy. Incoming spells struck the shimmering defenses, dispersing harmlessly into flickering embers and crackling sparks. Arrows and blades found their impact dulled, their force reduced to little more than glancing blows. The barriers held strong, shielding him from the chaos that threatened to consume him. ¡°Fireball¡­¡± A surge of fire danced at his fingertips, swelling into a searing sphere of destruction. He hurled a Fireball into the advancing ranks. The explosion sent a shockwave through the battlefield, engulfing several opponents in flames, their cries drowned by the roaring inferno. Before the embers could settle, lightning crackled up his arms, energy building like a storm ready to be unleashed. With a snap, a Lightning Bolt tore through the air, striking one enemy before jumping to another, then another. The crackling chain of electricity sent bodies convulsing, their movements jerky and uncontrolled as they staggered from the sudden burst of power. He kept on barraging Fireballs and Lightning Bolts in between, targeting groups of enemies and momentarily disrupting their formations. Baaanngg Krasshh Craankk¡­ Rays of light appeared after the health points of some of the players from Wreaking Havoc became zero, tasting firsthand the power received from the spearman. Dashh A Wreaking Havoc warrior was able to bypass his attacks and lunged at him, sword slashing downward in a desperate attempt to catch him off guard. Straight twisted his body to the side at the last possible moment, the blade whistling past his body. In that same breath, he stepped into his opponent¡¯s guard, his elbow snapping up into the man¡¯s jaw. Before the warrior could even cry out, Straight spun, driving his knee into the stunned foe¡¯s stomach, sending him sprawling backward. Another enemy came from the side, swinging a pair of daggers in quick lethal arcs. Instead of retreating, Aron advanced, deflecting one dagger with the shaft of his weapon and ducking under the second strike. He pivoted low and drove his knuckle into the assassin¡¯s wrist, forcing the blade from his grip. In the next motion, he slammed the hilt of his weapon into his ribs, knocking them breathless before finishing with a sharp swing that sent his crashing to the ground. Krrrsstt A brute wielding a war hammer roared and brought his weapon crashing down, intent on crushing him in one blow. Noah sidestepped as the hammer slammed into the dirt with a thunderous impact. Seizing the opening, he twirled his spear staff upward, cracking the shaft against the brute¡¯s wrist, forcing him to drop his weapon. With a follow-up spin, he drove the spear tip into the man¡¯s shoulder, sending him staggering back in agony. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. ¡°Not enough!¡± Aron shouted after he sent a hurling Fireball toward the hammer user, scorching him on the ground devastatingly. After all, he was a Battlemage, a unique synthesis of brute strength and magical mastery. His weapon the spear staff was the perfect embodiment of his dual nature. Its outer layer was honed into a deadly spear, a sharp destructive edge meant for piercing armor and delivering crushing physical blows. But observe closely enough and you¡¯d see that its inner core was that of a staff, a reservoir of energy that amplified every strike with the force of magic. ¡­ The crashing of metal and magic resounded as Straight engaged in the battles with some of the batch''s strongest members. He kept on parrying sword strikes with his spear staff, dodged powerful spells, and countered with swift and lethal strikes. Each move was executed while trying to exploit openings and weaknesses in his opponents'' defenses. And as the battle raged on, Straight''s tenacity and skill began to take a toll on the Wreaking Havoc members, chipping away at their morale and coordination. The onlookers couldn''t help but be impressed by Straight''s resilience and skill. Sighs of awe and even curses spread among the Wreaking Havoc members as they witnessed the lone fighter holding his ground against their combined might. It was basically a display of mastery. As time wore on, fatigue began to weigh on. The battle had taken its toll, and the momentum of the fight was on its high point. But Straight''s onslaught remained unshaken, and his opponents began to feel the pressure of his relentless assault. Every strike, every spell, brought them closer to their limits. The once high spirited members of Wreaking Havoc began to wear expressions of stunned and disbelief. What was supposed to be an overwhelming advantage in numbers was being systematically dismantled by a single player. Their faces paled as they watched their comrades fall one by one. The shock on their faces was tactual as they witnessed Straight''s maneuvers, his practically uncountered strikes, and his seamless transition between offensive and defensive tactics. They had absolutely underestimated him, and assumed that his lower level would be their advantage. But as their numbers dwindled and the realization sank in, their initial arrogance was replaced with a growing sense of desperation. Each fallen guild member cast a shadow of doubt over their certainty of victory, and some began to question their decision to engage in combat against him. The ranks that had once been tightly knit began to fray as panic and confusion set in. Straight''s assault shattered their cohesion and left them vulnerable. The battlefield was strewn with fallen comrades, and their guild''s reputation was on the line. The reality of their situation hit hard, with no solution on sight for them. ¡°How are we supposed to win against this madman?!¡± ¡°Even the Commander fell, what are we even trying to achieve here¡­¡± ¡°I really should¡¯ve not joined this damn guild¡­¡± ¡°Guys! I found a bastard traitor here!¡± ¡°F***, do you not regret it yourself?! Where is your conscience?¡± ¡°Hold up, look at the situation! Something is off..¡± It seemed that their fear was short lived as some of them could see that Straight started to slow down his attacks. He seemed to be tired, and his posture mostly consisted of being defensive at this point. It made sense, after all Aron had been fighting against hundreds of players on his own. It was a common understanding that a player couldn''t fight against tens if not hundreds of people at once, especially at their levels. Such monstricity was really making them lose their minds, and him being weakened made them calm down. Realizing this, the members of Wreaking Havoc demonstrated their coordination and synergy once more. Their attacks were purposeful, aimed at exploiting Straight''s vulnerabilities and breaking through his defenses. They worked in teams, covering each other''s blind spots and adjusting their strategies on the fly. Straight continued to fend off the onslaught of Wreaking Havoc members, and the limitations a single player had against a bunch of players started to be evident. Even with his formidable abilities, there was a limit to how many opponents he could effectively engage at any given time. His fiery explosions, lightning strikes, and magical barriers were potent, but from how the progress was going, it seemed that they could only cover a certain area and deal with a limited number of attackers. The Wreaking Havoc members were well aware of this, and they used it to their advantage. Their attacks came from all directions, testing Straight''s ability to defend against multiple fronts simultaneously after reorganizing once more and seizing the chance by looking at how Straight being passive. With each passing moment, the tide of battle seemed to shift. "Alright, I guess not a bad battle after all. Time to make the light become light I guess..." After tanking a sword coming from behind him, Straight¡¯s voice trailed off as he suddenly propelled himself powerfully toward a certain person. - N : Author was sick for a few days and became busy, give ratings comments reviews to make Author become spirited and know that you are all here with the Author yoo! Chapter 25 : Delay Chapter 25 : Delay Whooosh Suddenly, Noah propelled himself toward the faltering Onyxium. His movements were so fast and out of the blue that it caught Onyxium off guard. As Noah closed the distance, his weapon gleamed with such intensity in his eyes that made him almost choked up, seemingly ready to deliver a final blow. "Delay him!" he commanded, his voice reflecting the urgency of the moment. "Hold him back, give me time!" Summoning his fading strength, Onyxium urgently gave out orders to his remaining guild members. Despite his weakened state, his voice still carried an air of command that had once united them all. His words echoed across the chaotic battlefield, reaching the ears of those who still stood. They hesitated briefly, torn between their fallen leader and the hard hitting force embodied by Noah. But after realizing that Noah had somehow become passive a few moments ago, they became more confident. ¡°Go!¡± ¡°Tank and warriors, come with me!¡± ¡°Assasins, get him from the sides¡­¡± With this resolution, the members of Wreaking Havoc went forward to confront Noah. Their moves aimed at halting his advance. The vanguard of Wreaking Havoc surged forward as one, a wall of armor and bloodlust formed to bar Noah¡¯s path. Massive swords swung in unison, and shields raised up in a protective barrier as they charged head-on. Simultaneously, a band of agile looking fighters split off from the main force. Like predators stalking their prey, they crept along the flanks of the battlefield. They knew that while the heavy hitters bore down with brute force, their subtle advance could encircle him, cutting off any unexpected movement and disrupting his rhythm. And their objective was clear, bypass the front-line defenses and catch him from the side, where his attention would be divided. Overwhelm him head-on and trap him within a tightening circle of aggression, that was the idea of their whole strategy to stop his intention toward their commander. Their moves look impressive and on point toward their objective, just intending to delay and not to be ambitious and going out of proportion. But whether that would work or not, it was hard to tell as suddenly a massive fireball roared into existence, hurtling toward the advancing ranks. Bhhaaaammmm When it exploded, a searing shockwave tore through the enemy lines, setting the front ranks ablaze and scattering fighters at the front. Claankk With a twist of his body, Noah deflected an assassin¡¯s initial lunge, a swift parry that sent the hidden threat¡¯s dagger clanging harmlessly off his barrier. Noah followed right away with a jagged bolt of lightning arced from his outstretched arm with the spear staff in his hand, crackling with ferocious energy. Kzzzzsssttt¡­ It slammed into a nearby area, the electric shock rippling outward, briefly disorienting the agile attackers and forcing them to retreat into the chaos. At the same time, the heavy warriors still pressed in. A particularly burly fighter broke through the front line with a mighty swing, aiming to shatter Noah¡¯s guard with sheer brute force. Noah faced it by spinning his spear staff with the staff¡¯s sharp tip thrust forward, which made the enemy¡¯s momentum abruptly halted by a well-placed strike that sent him staggering backwards. ¡°Ohhhhh!¡± ¡°Get him for me!¡± The front-line combatants engaged in a desperate brawl, their collective roars melding with the hissing of dissipating spells. The spirited shouts that came out from their mouths made them more adrenalized and they could only hope that their objective could be achieved soon. You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story. It was just that each parry and thrust from Noah was very impactful, a blend of martial prowess and the explosive force of his magical attacks. His response was nothing short of meticulous. He sidestepped and deflected their strikes which could somehow prevent them from encircling him. His movements were economical yet each blow he landed was lethal. Especially as they fought on, the awareness of their Commander''s absence cast a shadow over their morale. Some of their strikes became less coordinated, their actions less cohesive. The members of Wreaking Havoc fought with a fervor born of desperation. They attacked Noah from all sides, aiming to overwhelm him with their sheer numbers once more. Arrows whizzed through the air, and spells filled with energy as they sought to disrupt Noah''s movements. Some attempted to be a sacrifice, hoping to exploit any opening. But he seemed to possess an almost preternatural awareness of their intentions, blocking their strikes in a calm looking manner. "Faster, don''t let him slip away!" "He''s tackling everything! How is he doing that?!" "Just keep on surrounding him from all sides!" "He doesn¡¯t even seem to be breaking a sweat, this is humiliating..." "I will reach you in a beat, don''t worry..." Onyxium''s eyes widened with panic as he saw Noah''s intent clear as day, just from hearing the not so clear remark amidst the chaotic battle. The realization struck him like a bolt of lightning, and he instinctively raised his weapon in a desperate attempt to defend himself. ¡°Ice Barrier¡­¡± ¡°Elemental Channelling¡­¡± Noah¡¯s spear staff began to hum with a potent energy. The outer blade glowed with an ethereal sheen, while the inner core pulsed with magical intensity. He planted his feet firmly on the ground, summoning the elemental forces at his command. Claankk Sriing Kraannk¡­ The surrounding players attacked Noah either close ranged or long ranged. Some of the attacks even landed on their own allies, but they couldn¡¯t care less at this point because they could see that Noah was about to do something. Sadly, the white bluish barrier standing around Noah blocked their attacks like a strengthened wall. Somehow, the barrier seems to be tougher than the previous ones. Whooomm With an explosive burst, Noah thrust his staff forward, unleashing a shockwave of fire and lightning. The explosion of elemental power fractured the enemy formation, the brilliant flare of magic illuminating the battlefield in a momentary blaze. The searing heat and electric fury tore through the circle¡¯s front line, sending a cascade of bodies tumbling backward as if caught in a violent tempest. Dasshh Not giving his foes a chance to regroup, Noah seized the opening. He darted forward, his movements a blur inside the smoke of the explosion surrounding him. With high speed, Noah closed the gap between himself and Onyxium. The latter''s eyes widened as he saw Noah''s spear descending toward him all of a sudden. Desperation and realization dawned on him. Bhaaammm The clash of powerful energy resonated through the battlefield as Noah''s strike met Onyxium''s defense. But the force behind Noah''s blow proved overpowering, causing Onyxium''s arms to tremble under the impact. The seconds that followed seemed to stretch into an eternity. Onyxium struggled to hold his ground, his strength failing him with each passing heartbeat. The weight of defeat hung heavy in the air, and the realization that he couldn''t hold out any longer crept into his consciousness. The panic in his eyes was a reflection of the impending doom that he couldn''t escape. Krraaannkkk And then, Noah''s weapon broke through Onyxium''s defense. With another thrust, Noah''s weapon found its mark around the latter¡¯s chest, and Onyxium''s form crumpled to the ground. Grakk¡­ The blow struck true, the impact reverberating through Onyxium''s body and followed by an overwhelming darkness that seemed to close in on his vision. As he fell to the ground, his world started to become grey, leaving behind only the echo of his defeat. ¡°******* hell¡­¡± Onyxium''s weakened form was a stark contrast to the commander who had once exuded confidence and authority. Despite his efforts, he was again no match for the pursuit of Noah''s strikes. The members of Wreaking Havoc froze in disbelief. Their commander, their leader, had fallen. The once fierce battle cries had turned into shocked silence. "Not bad," Noah''s voice cut through the silence. "It''s over I guess. Still, a paladin huh..." He said as his voice trailed off while shaking his head. Onyxium''s eyes were bloodshot as he looked at Noah, hearing the seemingly down toning of the latter''s voice. His health bar plummeted, reaching zero in an instant and a burst of light engulfed Onyxium''s form. He vomited blood right before he turned into light, and it was hard to say whether he vomited blood because of his injuries or because of something else. "Fu*****..." With the curse, Onyxium''s avatar shattered into countless fragments, vanishing from the battlefield. Chapter 26 : Trap Chapter 26 : Trap? Amidst the stunned silence, items materialized on the ground where Onyxium''s avatar had stood. Noah''s gaze shifted to the loot, and without hesitation, he moved quickly to claim the drops. Among the loot were weapons, armor, and various other items that Onyxium had carried. Noah examined each item with a discerning eye in a second, looking like evaluating their worth and picking the useful ones. The silence was broken by the soft chime of notifications as the loot was added to Noah''s inventory. His actions were so swift that the players surrounding him didn¡¯t even have the chance to see what was going on in the first seconds. And as the realization of their situation settled in, the Wreaking Havoc members'' anger flared. They couldn''t believe that Noah had audaciously claimed the loot right before their eyes. Fueled by a mix of frustration and desperation, they gathered themselves and formed another circle around the spearman. "Who does this guy think he is!?" "He just waltzes in, kills our Commander, and takes the loot like it''s his own?" "Don¡¯t let him get away with this!" "Get his ***!" The members of Wreaking Havoc truly were incensed by Noah''s audacity once more. It was clear that they were not about to let Noah escape without a fight. Noah, encircled by the growing number of Wreaking Havoc members, spun his spear staff sideways. His eyes remained locked on his adversaries. It was as if he had stirred a hornet''s nest, and now he would have to face the swarm. ¡°Go!¡± ¡°Ohhhh!¡± With battle cries that echoed their spirit, the Wreaking Havoc members lunged at Noah. Their weapons gleamed, and their movements were fueled by an unbridled thirst for revenge. Seemingly at all cost. Dasshh As they went forward in Aron¡¯s direction, a sudden twist unfolded that caught everyone off guard. Noah, the spearman who had wreaked havoc and slain their Commander Onyxium, abruptly changed course. He swiftly headed toward a rocky hill nearby, a very much unexpected and puzzling move. The onlookers from the Wreaking Havoc guild exchanged baffled glances, confusion mirrored in their expressions. This wasn''t what they had anticipated. Their ranks momentarily faltered, uncertain of how to respond to this unforeseen shift in the battlefield dynamics. Before long, realization dawned on them. This guy must be fleeing! Without hesitation, they started to follow the spearman quickly. After all, it made sense. That guy must be running out of mana and energy¡­ Fast! Catch him before he starts to recover! It was a maneuver that ignited a flurry of activity among the Wreaking Havoc members. Some hesitated, but then swiftly followed in pursuit, fearing the repercussions of losing sight of him. The rocky hill, once a peripheral backdrop to their skirmish, now took center stage as the battleground''s focus changed. The guild members scrambled to ascend the hill, their footsteps echoing against the rocks as they navigated the uneven terrain. The hill''s ascent was not without its hindrances. Loose stones and steep inclines posed obstacles, forcing the guild members to adapt their movements as they pressed onward. Their steps came in ragged bursts, to the urgency of their pursuit. Stolen story; please report. Few of them cast quick glances over their shoulders, apprehension etched across their faces as they pondered what awaited them atop the hill. Noah''s motives remained a puzzle they were eager to uncover. His abrupt departure from the main battle and subsequent retreat to this hill suggested a strategy, they thought. Speculations buzzed among them as they forged ahead, their collective focus on this new confrontation. Nonetheless, they really couldn¡¯t bear to take their eyes off the spearman. This was the only clue that they could get for now, if they lose this chance, it would be harder for them to get him another time. As they neared the hill''s summit, the surroundings seemed to grow quieter. The guild members braced themselves, their weapons at the ready, nerves taut as they prepared to face Noah once more if they were able to catch up to him. And in the midst of uncertainty and heightened emotions, the gaze of the Wreaking Havoc guild members fixated on Noah, who veered toward a small rocky hole on the hill''s surface. ¡°Damn it! He went that way!¡± ¡°Faster jackass, why walk so slow?!¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of traps?¡± ¡°Wuss, get down if you don¡¯t want to join¡­¡± Talks of opposing opinions were discussed as they were walking toward their destination. Such a dilemma was truly unavoidable, one thing to get away and be safe with the price of losing the culprit¡¯s shadow, while the other was to pursue the spearman with the risk of falling into a trap. The reason why most of them were still insisting on going after Aron was because it was very unlikely for traps to appear, after all they had surveyed this area before, when they were battling against the Valiant Wave guild before. With that knowledge in mind, they were in ease of going forward like this. ¡°Go¡­!¡± The rocky hole was unassuming, nestled amidst the rough terrain. Its presence had gone unnoticed until Noah''s movement towards it drew their attention. Aron then entered without waiting for a second as the members of Wreaking Havoc followed suit. Navigating the rocky hill''s uneven surface, they clustered around the small opening. Their eyes locked on the mysterious spearman who now disappeared on the threshold, the very one that they wanted to teach a lesson to be remembered. And soon they arrived in front of the rocky hole, a portal into the unknown. Noah''s presence had somehow casted a shadow over its entrance, like an unspoken invitation for them to step into the dark looking territory. With a glance between them, they could see slight hesitation on their faces. Noah''s form had disappeared into the rocky hole, and a decision had to be made. Whether to heed his call or retreat. ¡°See? Even you yourself are scared now right¡­?¡± ¡°Shut up bastard, look at me going first¡­¡± With a mixture of skepticism and hurry, they followed Noah''s lead, stepping one by one into the hole.. The rocky hole''s interior welcomed them, its darkness concealing the answers they sought. Each step forward somewhat intensified their sense of vulnerability, uncertainty becoming their steadfast companion. And their collective footfalls resonated in the confined space. The passage was narrow, forcing them to move a single line. They descended deeper into the earth, the rocky walls and uneven ground revealing glimpses of its tumultuous moment. The deeper they went, the rocky walls closed in, as if to test their resolve. The passageway twisted and turned left and right. Baaanggg¡­ Amidst this atmosphere of contemplation, an explosion shattered the quiet equilibrium. A deafening rumble reverberated through the chamber, the ground beneath them quaking as if protesting the intrusion. A collective breath of air escaped their lips, with their eyes wide in alarm. "What''s going on!?" "Like I thought, this is a trap!" Shouts of alarm merged with the thundering sound of crumbling masonry. Every falling stone struck with an impactful sound, each one a reminder of the chamber''s imminent collapse. The group, gripped by fear, began to scramble in all directions, desperately seeking escape Baaaaaammm Before they could react more, chaos descended upon them. The chamber convulsed violently yet again. The ancient stone walls, once looking stoic and enduring, shuddered as if gripped by some unseen force. Fragments of rock dislodged with brutal suddenness, cascading from the ceiling above. The very walls of the chamber seemed to tremble, fragments of stone dislodging and crashing to the ground. Dust and debris filled the air, shrouding their surroundings in a haze. Panic rippled through their ranks like wildfire. But as they turned to retrace their steps and flee through the rocky passage, the ground beneath their feet quaked anew. Without warning, a fresh, violent quake surged up from the depths once more. The floor convulsed with such ferocity that their feet lost their balance, sending several stumbling and colliding with one another. The trembling ground looked intent on swallowing them wholly that left no room for escape. Whaaammm¡­ Chapter 27 : Harvest Chapter 27 : Harvest ¡°Haa¡­¡± Emerging from the depths of the cave, Noah stepped into the sunlight with a feeling of liberation that washed over him like a gentle breeze. The weight of the collapsing chamber seemed to have left behind the confines of stone and darkness, replaced by the openness of the world outside. His movements were looking calm as if the chaos behind him was of no concern to him, while his expression was a mixture of quiet contemplation and the ghost of a triumphant smile. The rocky hillside spread out before him, the terrain extending in all directions like a canvas painted with hues of green and brown. It was quite a stark contrast to the subterranean cave he had just navigated. ¡°Wreaking Havoc and Valiant Wave, huh¡­¡± As he took a moment to gather his bearings, his gaze turned toward the rocky hole from which he had emerged. It was an unassuming opening in the hillside, a threshold that had led him from one realm to another. His heart held a quiet appreciation for the skill he had used just now, Weaver''s Warping Hollow. Srrnggtzzz With a gesture, he activated the skill once more. A spatial tear materialized before him, an iridescent shimmer that seemed to rattle through the air. Noah stepped forward, his form enveloped by the shimmering light as he seamlessly slipped into the rift. Whoom The transition was smooth, a sensation that was both disorienting and exhilarating somehow. Space itself seemed to bend and contort around him, a fleeting concept as he traveled through the spatial tear. The sensation was akin to being suspended in a state between reality and dreams where the boundaries of the world were fluid and malleable. Step¡­ As he emerged from the other side of the spatial tear, the world greeted him with a familiar vista. He found himself on a hillside not unlike the one he had just left, though the surroundings were different, an embodiment to the skill''s ability to transport him to various locations. The air felt fresh against his skin, the nuance of earth and grass mingling in the breeze that tousled his hair. "Getting the Weaver Class after struggling for years... totally worth it." Noah sighed in a melancholy tone. As the spatial tear dissipated behind him, Noah continued his walk. Noah''s attention changed to the loot that he had obtained from the fierce battle that had transpired. The spoils of victory held a potential of riches, and resources that could aid him in his journey. He then paid attention to the precious ones in which he saw. His fingers deftly picked up the items, one by one. A glint of metal caught his eye. A glowing blade, a drop from one of the fallen foes. Its craftsmanship spoke of its utility in combat, its blade honed to a sharp edge. Noah turned it in his hands, appreciating the weight and balance. This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. Its hilt was etched with some nice looking patterns, an evidence to the dedication of its creator. And this blade was named "Radiant Saber,¡± The level of Radiant Saber was marked as 42. Its rank as a "Bronze" rarity suggested that it was no ordinary weapon, standing out even among the myriad weapons that populated the New World. After all, it was above the rarity of Sand, Wood, Stone, and Iron. Beside the blade lay an assortment of silver coins, their metallic clip an indication of their worth. It was a currency that was naturally valuable in the boundaries of the New World and also in the real world. A pretty tangible reward for his battle. Noah counted the coins, acknowledging the material gain that had come from his victories. These resources could be used and being invested in equipment, skills, or even guild endeavors that would further his growth. There were thousands of these coins. Like a tribute to his triumph in battle and the bounties that had been placed on the heads of his adversaries that were put on the system by either Wreaking Havoc and Valiant Wave toward each other, now resided within his possession. ¡°A fortune that has been forged through combat, a currency earned in the crucible of conflict, huh¡­ Man why do I sound so philosophical.¡± He shook his head with a little smile as his gaze then moved to a set of worn scrolls. The worn scrolls that Noah had obtained held the seal to powerful instant skills. Their tattered appearance belied their worth, as the information they contained was valuable to any player seeking to expand their repertoire of skills. Among them, he discovered "Inferno Burst," a skill that could unleash a devastating release of fire energy upon activation. Its level requirement of 38, and it was indicated that it was a technique for those well versed in the art of fire. Another scroll, labeled "Frost Projectiles," prescribed ice elemental mastery as a requirement to wield it effectively. Its icy capabilities could freeze opponents in their tracks, where its potency was enhanced by the expertise of its user. Noah could see the usefulness within these scrolls, the opportunity to broaden one¡¯s abilities and compliment his combat prowess either in emergency or when trying to deal as much impact as one could. ¡°Very nice scrolls to have¡­ Hmmm, what else is there¡­¡± In his grasp, he held a piece of armory which was a gauntlet. Its design was ornate yet functional, as the metal was filled with engravings that spoke of the relations with physical damage. The name was "Gauntlet of Valor", its level requirement of 40. ¡°...Good stuff. With an interesting skill to boot,¡± Noah muttered as he inspected the gauntlet briefly. The gauntlet''s material quality was listed as "Enchanted Iron," suggesting not just durability, but also a tint of magical enhancement. Its effect, "Valor''s Resilience," provided a temporary increase in defense and resistance during combat. Which could be used for its role for a guardian against the onslaught of hard hitting foes. Its rank as a "Silver" rarity was fitting for a piece of armor that had proved its mettle. Among the loot was also an assortment of herbs and potions, each vial containing the abilities either to mend wounds, bolster strength, or other useful buffs. One of the examples was the "Elixir of Vitality," a concoction designed to rapidly restore health and provide a temporary boost in stamina. Its effects were crucial in extending a player''s longevity in combat scenarios, offering a vital boost when the situation of a battle turned into a stretch. Another vial held a "Mana Infusion Potion," a resource very much valuable to spellcasters seeking to replenish their magical reserves during heated encounters but also increasing the speed of mana recovery. These potions could ensure that a player''s abilities remained at their disposal when most needed. "What a harvest huh..." Noah''s sigh carried a hint of wry amusement. The saying that "war is the fastest way to get rich" had rung true in this instance. The clashes between guilds, the battles that happened among the conflicting groups, could propel one toward financial gains that would have been difficult to achieve through conventional means. ¡°...Hmmm?¡± Suddenly, he noticed something that really surprised him for real. Yellow Crescent Diamonds.... the prime ingredients to uncover the very first phase of the Weaver Class¡­ Chapter 28 : Way to Advance Chapter 28 : Way to Advance Around the glinting heap of loot and gleaming silver coins, Noah''s discerning eyes came to rest upon a clump of items that stirred both surprise and exhilaration within him. ¡°Isn¡¯t this¡­¡± Because among the treasures, nestled amidst the swords, armor pieces, and assorted trinkets, were several precious stones-like that radiated a warm, inviting hue. Yellow Crescent Diamonds. A jolt of astonishment coursed through him. These were no ordinary gems as they were ingredients that he coveted, the prime items that were required to unlock the first phase of the Weaver Class. Noah''s heart raced a bit as he considered the implications of this unexpected discovery. The Weaver Class was an unknown rarity class, with out of the box mastery within the game, offering high potentials and capabilities even at this early stage. To even embark on the journey to acquire this class was an endeavor that took him years of struggle. And now, he could scarcely believe his luck. When he was in the battle, he couldn''t really pay attention to the details of the loot that he had gotten. What was important was to get as many precious looking items as he could. Now that he finally was able to discern these particular items, it was time for him to be shocked. ¡°Fortune truly had a knack for weaving together opportunities that mirrored the unpredictability of reality itself¡­ Man that¡¯s a mouthful,¡± Noah laughed out loud. The thing was that, these Yellow Crescent Diamonds had appeared as if summoned by fate itself! Just what is going on here? .... Was it really from the high luck attributes that I have? Noah shuddered a little just from thinking about this possibility. After all, that thinking was truly wild. Making him clash with a person that somehow had the item that he needed¡­. ¡°Or maybe it was not necessarily to make me clash with the owner of these gems, but to at the very least have some contact? But it¡¯s all between players here. If it''s with me against NPC or monsters just like the previous one with that 3 Horns Bear, that would sincerely make sense. But this¡­¡± ¡°Alright, I myself personally think that this is just a coincidence. That¡¯s the conclusion that I can get from this for now. I mean like dang, what can I say¡­¡± Noah shook his head with a wry smile on his face. Luck attribute was really one of if not the most mysterious attributes that one could have after all. Attributes that worked on something that could not be seen or calculated just like the others in a transparent and straightforward manner. Especially when there are only a small group of people that have acquired Luck attributes, and that includes the players that are standing on the top of the food chain right¡­ Still, these diamonds were symbols of progression, like some harbingers of evolution. They represented a gateway to new advancement, a step closer to the pinnacle of mastery in the case of the Weaver Class itself in particular. If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. Noah''s mind raced as he considered the ramifications of this discovery. The Weaver Class was very much absolutely top of the charts for its versatility, with its capacity to master various forms of combat and support. A class that seemingly transcended traditional boundaries just by looking at the skills set in it. So Noah was sure that it would take him a long time to even acquire the first requirement. Even up till now, he only had the opportunity to use one skill of Weaver Class, Warping Hollow only... He envisioned the moment when he would combine these gems with the other requisite ingredients, forging a pathway to the first phase of the Weaver Class. It was going to be a transformation that would grant him access to a plethora of abilities previously unattainable. So why did it seem to be so easy now¡­ ¡°...Not that I can complain. In fact, make it easier please¡­¡± As he inspected the items, a detailed status description emerged, revealing the attributes contained within these precious gems. ... [Yellow Crescent Diamonds] Level Requirement: None Rarity: Secret Effects:
  1. Class Advancement Catalyst: Possess an inherent affinity with the energies of the world. Can be used as a prime ingredient for unlocking the first phase of certain advanced classes. Their inherent magical resonance acts as a catalyst, resonating with the unique potential within a player¡¯s class to activate latent abilities and take the first step towards mastering a chosen advanced class.
  2. Bright Resonance: Possess an innate alignment with the elemental forces of light. When equipped or held, emit a soothing aura that provides a boost to the player''s resistance against dark magic and shadow-based attacks by 25%. Can also ward off the insidious effects of dark energies according to stats and enhance the player''s overall resilience by 15%.
  3. Luminal Enhancement: The gems are attuned to the luminous essence of light magic. When activated, they infuse the player''s attacks with a radiant burst of light, imbuing their strikes with an additional element of light damage by 10%. More effective against dark type.
  4. Resplendent Fortune: When in possession of these gems, players might gain a subtle increase in their chances of getting rare loot drops.
  5. Prismatic Attunement: When held in conjunction with specific light-aligned spells or abilities, the gems amplify the potency of these skills by 20%, enhancing their effects and allowing players to channel greater energies in battle.
... As Noah looked over the wealth of attributes contained within these Yellow Crescent Diamonds, he couldn''t help but be shocked. The concept of class advancement held a tantalizing allure. The notion that these gems could facilitate one''s progression toward mastery in an advanced class was a prospect that ignited his imagination. The inherent synergy with light magic and the ability to enhance one''s combat capabilities were assets that could tip the scales in one''s favor during battles. With their radiant light and inherent magic, they offered a powerful boost and buff that could easily overwhelm the opponent. The resplendent fortune they offered was a reminder that luck itself might align with his path, favoring him with more bountiful rewards... In the midst of the chaotic battles and fervent quests, Noah understood that these Yellow Crescent Diamonds were a treasure hard to compare, especially for the rookie leveled players. With a satisfied smile, Noah carefully secured the gems among his possessions. "That¡¯s why people love violence... oh dang." It became increasingly apparent about Onyxium''s vehement resistance during their last battle, because these Yellow Crescent Diamonds were most likely dropped from that guy. It was not merely Onyxium''s prestige or his guild''s honor that fueled his panic of getting killed it seemed now. It was the fear of relinquishing such items¡­ It was easy to understand why Onyxium fought with such tenacity. In a realm where power was the currency that drove players forward, the abilities of these gems held were obvious. They represented not only the prospect of class advancement but also items that could buff skills and such. "Well, I guess that¡¯s it for now¡­" Noah sighed, snapping his inventory shut and gazing into the distance. It was because he remembered that he had an appointment today. Chapter 29 : Sweet Chapter 29 : Sweet Without thinking much, he decided to postpone his endeavor regarding the Weaver class and get off to face the real world. ¡°Log out.¡± Diingg As the immersive New World gradually faded from Noah''s senses, he found himself returning to the realm of reality. The hum of the gaming cabinet subsided, replaced by the familiar sounds of the world outside. Slowly, he disentangled himself from the virtual threads that had seemingly woven their hold around his consciousness. ¡°Ahh¡­¡± With a languid stretch, Noah rose from the capsule, his body readjusting to the weight of gravity. The transition from the dynamic battles within the game to the confines of his physical space was a surreal experience, akin to stepping out of a vivid dream and into the muted colors of the waking world. A glance at the clock confirmed what he had been aware of. Time had slipped away as he delved into the New World expanse. His thoughts shifted to the commitments he had outside of the game, The real-world responsibilities that occupied his life often necessitated the juggling of different roles, and Noah was well-versed in navigating these changes. ¡°Lemme just¡­ brace up myself a bit.¡± He made his way to the mirror, briefly assessing his appearance. He straightened his shirt collar and ran his fingers through his hair, a cursory attempt at presenting a composed fa?ade. ¡­ "Good day to you Boss¡­" After Noah went out from his front door, he was greeted by a man with a beard. His suits were tidy, and his body was looking fit too. He looked to be around 40 years old. Wilhelm, a loyal and capable member of Noah''s subordinates, stood by the car, his presence a pose to the professionalism that anybody would value in his work. With a thick and seemingly neat beard, and an air of quiet confidence, Wilhelm exuded an aura of reliability. His hazel eyes held a depth of experience that hinted at a life well-lived, and the thin smile on his face seemingly spoke of both wisdom and intelligence. "Indeed a good day that we have." Noah answered while putting sunglasses over his head. As Noah made his way to the car, Wilhelm held the door open for him, his eyes conveying a sense of respect for the man in front of him. "Boss, all ready to go?" Noah acknowledged the gesture with a grateful smile. "So it seems¡­ Thanks.¡° Wilhelm''s lips quirked into a faint grin, revealing a glimpse of his warm nature beneath the professional looking exterior. "Just doing my job, Sir. Let''s have a safe journey back." He neared and entered the car that had been prepared for him. The man complied as he also entered the car, into the driver seat. Without taking much time, the car started to turn on. ¡°Haaa¡­.¡± Noah sighed while looking at the surrounding outside the window. The change from the New World chamber to the real world was a transition marked both by physical space and also through a shift in mindset. The echoes of battles began to dissipate wholly, replaced by the songs of the birds flying in the air. Noah''s role as a successful business owner demanded his attention, and he embraced it with the same vigor he did in the New World. Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. Brrmm As Noah''s car gradually started to pull away from the curb, ready to navigate the city''s maze of streets, a heartwarming voice greeted him and Wilhelm. The rhythmic patter of quick footsteps approached from behind, and before they could fully register the source of the sound, two youthful figures burst into view, their laughter carried by the gentle breeze. Noah turned to see the source of the excitement, and a wide smile spread across his face as he locked eyes with the two young souls who were racing toward them. The boy, with a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin, led the charge. He looked to be about 5 years old, his vibrant energy mirrored in his unruly hair that seemed to dance with every step. A pair of curious, twinkling eyes held a sense of wonder and a hint of the adventures his young heart had already embarked upon. Following closely behind was the girl, who seemed to be his younger sister, with a head of tousled curls that framed her cherubic face. Her laughter was a melody that danced through the air, carrying a purity that only childhood could bring. With sparkling eyes and a dimpled smile, she radiated a bashful joy that seemed to infuse the very atmosphere around her. As the boy and girl approached, their steps slowed as they caught sight of Noah''s welcoming smile. ¡°Ohh¡­ You guys woke up¡­ Come.¡± The boy skidded to a stop just a few feet away, his breath coming in quick pants as he grinned up at Noah. "Haaa! We hear your car! Where are you going?" Noah went out of the car and crouched down to their eye level, his warmth evident in his eyes as he addressed the boy. "Baby come... I thought you two are sleeping? Hahaha... I''m here, alright. How have you two been?" The girl joined her brother, her small hand clutching his as she offered Noah a shy looking smile. ¡°Umm¡­ Were good..." "Good... good... you''re doing well? How''s your study been doing, eh?" Noah''s smile widened as he spoke to the children, his tone warm and inviting while holding up the two children in his embrace. The boy''s face lit up as he eagerly launched into a tale of his wonders, his words a whirlwind of excitement and animated gestures. The girl chimed in occasionally, her words soft but filled with enthusiasm. Noah listened attentively, his gaze fixed on them as he absorbed every detail of their stories. Wilhelm couldn''t help but be captivated by the innocence and liveliness they exuded. The simplicity of their joy was a stark contrast to the complexities of the adult world, and he found himself momentarily lost in the magic of their presence. ¡°Hehe¡­¡± He watched the interaction unfold, a feeling of nostalgia tugging at his heartstrings. The pureness of their emotions and the unguarded innocence with which they approached Noah brought back memories of simpler times. He observed as Noah effortlessly bridged the gap between the worlds of adults and children, his genuine looking interest and care apparent in every word and gesture. Wilhelm leaned against the car, a little smile somehow appeared on his mouth by the scene unfolding before him."I only need a cigarrette, a sun glasses, and facing the sky occasionally as I look at this protagonist. That''s more than enough to get an adaptation, dang." "Hahaha... Wilhelm, where are those sweet chocolate cakes that I¡¯ve ordered before?" "On my way, Sir." Wilhelm proceeded to go back to the car and bring a packaged box, in which the cakes were laid inside. Hearing the conversations and seeing the box, the kids'' eyes were wide like saucers. "Cake! Give me! I want all!" "Me... want to..." Noah and Wilhelm couldn''t help but laugh looking at kids'' antics. They looked like they were two greedy merchants that were seeing a bag of gold in the middle of the street. Eventually, as the sun rose higher in the sky and the city''s lights began to twinkle in the distance, Noah rose to his feet, his eyes still holding the same joy that had captivated the children. ¡°You guys be good children at home, okay. Don¡¯t make your mother worry¡­¡± The boy and girl nodded eagerly, their smiles reflecting their enthusiasm. "Alright kids, say goodbye..." A woman that had been appearing around them a few moments ago urged the two kids as she patted their heads lovingly. "Bye! Bye bye!" "Good bye..." As they bid their farewells and turned to head back, Noah and Wilhelm once again entered the car with a somewhat joyful feelings. They waved their hands toward them as the car slowly parted from the house. Chapter 30 : Long Day Chapter 30 : Long Day With each passing moment, as the city embraced the night and stars began to twinkle overhead, the car went away swiftly. Wilhelm navigated the city''s streets with practiced ease, his hands steady on the wheel. He glanced at the rearview mirror, catching a glimpse of Noah lost in his thoughts. Wilhelm had been Noah''s confidant for years, a companion who had seen the man weather storms and emerge stronger each time. He understood Noah''s dedication and resourcefulness, qualities that had earned him not just success but also the trust and respect of those around him. Despite his success, Wilhelm could feel that Noah¡¯s mind rarely found rest. Even now, as the city lights flickered across his face, his expression remained unreadable, as if caught somewhere between reflection and thoughts. "Long day, Boss?" Wilhelm finally broke the silence, his voice steady yet respectful. Noah blinked, as if pulled from deep thought, before exhaling lightly. "Yeah¡­ something like that." He stretched slightly as he changed his position against the plush seat. "Though I suppose that''s just how things go. Always something to deal with, always something new on the horizon." Wilhelm nodded knowingly. "That¡¯s the price of always staying ahead, I suppose. You never really get to stop running." Noah smirked slightly at that, with his fingers intertwined against each others. "And yet, standing still is never really an option, is it?" "Not for someone like you, Sir. Not for someone who keeps winning." Wilhelm chuckled, turning the wheel smoothly as they approached a quieter street. ¡°Ahaha¡­ Always winning huh¡­ Amen to that,¡± Noah laughed with narrowed eyes. ¡°Haa¡­ Maybe we should stay for a while more back there.¡± Noah let out a soft breath, his gaze drifting upward toward the night sky. As the engine purred softly, enveloping the car''s interior in a soothing hum, his gaze shifted momentarily from the outer sight to Wilhelm. "Brother Wilhelm," Noah began, his tone laced with genuine curiosity. The corners of his mouth curled into a small grin, interest evident in his eyes as he turned his attention to the conversation at hand. ¡°How''s your progress in the New World been lately?" Wilhelm, who had been navigating the bustling streets like someone who knew them like the back of his hand, changed his gaze from the road to Noah for a glance. "Well, I''ve been taking your advice to heart. I''ve been dedicating part of my time to leveling up and honing my skills there." A hint of a smile playing at the edges of his mouth. Noah nodded approvingly, "That''s good to hear. I remember well back then suggesting you to use the Mage class. How''s that been working out for you so far?" "Honestly, I''m loving it. The mage specialization seems to be tuned for me. And I''ve been focusing on expanding my magical repertoire at the moment..." Wilhelm''s eyes lit up with enthusiasm as he explained his situation. Noah smiled in response. Wilhelm''s effort was commendable, and he could tell that this employee of his was truly immersing himself in the New World. But there was more to their conversation than met the eye. Noah had his own reasons for encouraging Wilhelm to progress in the New World even though he had a pretty relevant job placement in his company. This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings. "Alright. I think it''s about time we connect with each other in the New World too." A thoughtful expression appeared on his face as he looked outside the window. "Really? You''re joining the New World too?" Wilhelm''s eyebrows lifted in surprise. Noah chuckled, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Well, I''ve been playing it on and off. I have reached level 30, actually." "Oh, that''s great! I had no idea you were already into the game. But then again, you must be busy right..." Wilhelm''s eyes widened in genuine interest. That''s right. Even Wilhelms wasn¡¯t told that Noah had been in the New World for years now. That was a part of Noah¡¯s plan in the New World. "Yeah, business has been quite demanding lately. But I''m finding more time to play the game now." Noah nodded his head. Wilhelm''s grin was contagious. "That''s awesome, Boss! I''ve been kinda hooked lately, exploring the New World and learning the ropes. It''ll be amazing to team up..." "I''m looking forward to it. It''ll be good to play there alongside you..." Noah replied with closed eyes. As they continued chatting about game strategies and their plans for the virtual world, Noah couldn''t help but feel intrigued. While Wilhelm was unaware of Noah''s long-standing involvement in the game, as far as his plan was concerned, Noah knew that their paths were about to converge in a way Wilhelm would probably never expect. With a subtle nod, Noah wrapped up their conversation. "Well, we''ve got some work to attend to for now, but let''s set a time to meet up in the game soon. Here''s my id..." Noah said as he told Wilhelm his id and information so that he could add him. Wilhelm nodded understandingly. "Definitely, Boss. I''ll send you a message when I''m online next. Let¡¯s raid dungeons and level up together!" "Sounds like a plan. Looking forward to it." Noah said relaxedly. The car soon approached the Finest Fish Emporium¡¯s area, the glow of the street lights reflected off the sleek exterior of the building. It stood tall like an old tree, a modern structure lined with tinted glass windows and illuminated signage that proudly bore its name. The sound of activity within was sounding busy even at this hour. Workers moving crates, the distant hum of refrigeration units, and the occasional beep of forklifts maneuvering through the loading docks. Wilhelm moved the car to a smooth stop in front of the main entrance. Noah stepped out, adjusting his cuffs as his eyes swept across the familiar surroundings. He took in the sight of the workers diligently moving about. Their organized efforts reflected the discipline and structure he had instilled in the company. A man in a neatly pressed uniform, approached them with a respectful nod. Oliver Grant, the facility manager. "Good day, Sir," Oliver greeted, standing upright with his hands clasped behind his back. "We received the latest shipment from the northern fisheries just an hour ago. Quality checks are in progress, and initial reports indicate everything is up to standard." Noah nodded, his expression neutral yet attentive. "Good. Any irregularities?" Oliver shook his head. "Nothing significant. Just the usual weight variances, all within acceptable margins. Logistics team has already compiled the reports if you¡¯d like to review them." "Maybe a bit later," Noah responded, glancing toward the loading docks. "I want to take a look at the shipment first." "Of course. Right this way, Sir." Oliver didn¡¯t hesitate and started to lead the way. There, they could see workers inspecting fish packed in ice, others documenting inventory, and large trucks idling nearby, ready for their next deliveries. Noah moved with an air of quiet authority, his gaze scanning everything with the sharpness of a man who seemed to know every detail of his business "Good catch this time," Noah commented, running a gloved hand over the ice-packed crates. "Make sure these get prioritized for the premium clients." "Already noted, Sir," Oliver confirmed. "Also, the buyers from the east province markets are inquiring about an increase in supply. They want exclusivity for the next quarter." "Hmmm¡­ Better discuss it in the morning. Make sure our contracts align before committing to anything." Noah exhaled thoughtfully, seemingly considering the request. "Understood." ¡­ A few moments later, they soon parted ways toward their own settlements. Noah''s thoughts turned to the New World. He had been curious regarding the Weaver class that he had acquired, the unknown rarity that made him intrigued and puzzled. But now, after finally getting an item that could move him toward another step forward, Noah saw the opportunity had come step by step... Chapter 31 : Please Bear With It Chapter 31 : Please Bear With It As he navigated through the bustling city, Noah noticed that players of all classes moved about, engaged in their own pursuits, creating an atmosphere that was both immersive and busy. Somehow, Noah''s heart swelled with a mixture of nostalgia. Bittersweet memories for the hours he had spent adventuring within these realms. He was mostly alone in his endeavour before, trying to be as alone as possible so that the endeavour that he went for the Weaver class plus the bonus Ring of Wonder could be kept as a secret, in case he got something so powerful that would be detrimental by the powers. Moving like a lone wolf, keeping his fire down and his intentions hidden from possible prying eyes. ¡°...Honestly, looking at the current progress and incidents, I myself can¡¯t tell now if the plus is the Ring of Wonder or the Weaver itself,¡± Noah muttered with a wry smile on his face. He also knew that if words got out about his endeavour back then, his chance to get those things would be significantly lower. Any hint of his efforts could shatter his carefully constructed advantage. One shouldn¡¯t underestimate the powers and factions formed in the New World after all. In the end, who could guarantee that no one would be enticed if somehow his findings would be kept within his circle only, including his friends if he even made friends anyway in game? Being cautious was a virtue that one should always have after all. Who would not falter when the promise of unprecedented strength and glory lain in wait even if at the cost of betraying their own kind. Yet now, if he was to flaunt his achievement, naturally that would be a move that might impress others and could potentially be recruited in a big guild or factions. He could imagine those people seeking to recruit him, eager to harness his talent and hence elevate their standing. Being positioned in a high rank would be an easy matter for him to acquire too, commanding armies and squads while being served as a VIP right off the bat. The appearance of a person that held an unknown rarity class and an item that increased the luck attribute by a whooping 70 points, such incidents would absolutely set the New World in chaos. Nah, more than that, he was aware that just one clue that he got from that journey could set the New World abuzz. Within moments of his announcement, competitions would arise as to who could offer the highest bid of a prize and seize the person to be in their ranks. His orders would be met with immediate actions and flattery. Any request would be delivered in a gold platter toward his front door in a matter of seconds basically. Who wouldn¡¯t want to be a person in such a center of attention? Any farts and barks would be seen as a word of wisdom most likely. ¡°Shake my head¡­¡± Noah shook his head. Never flaunting his achievements, never engaging in needless contacts so that his purpose remained concealed. That could mean that Noah¡¯s goal was far grander than joining such groups of powers. Because such a position came with a cage that could control over his actions. A double edged sword for one to have as that would relinquish his ambitions. It would tie him to alliances and obligations, potentially compromising the freedom that would allow one to grow as much as he wanted. A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. Still, for a person that didn¡¯t have anything and was poor, joining those big factions right away might not necessarily be a bad idea. After all, with that he would be a successful person with millions of money going into their pockets on the spot. Having prestige just like the big superstar would be a natural course. Who wouldn¡¯t be enticed by such situations? Still, who could guarantee that the group that they joined would be a group that respected their subjects and didn¡¯t see them as indispensable tools later down along the way? Who could guarantee that they wouldn¡¯t be stabbed in the back, eyeing them like wolves eyeing the deers? Such a risky move needed a whole lot of consideration in the end. So while the thought of basking in the limelight and joining the ranks of the elite was undeniably enticing, Noah chose the path of his own. Especially for Noah who seemed to be wealthy already and even got a company that he owned himself. Though it might not be as wealthy as a superstar, for a person who always be grateful and had goals, would such things even matter in the end? Somehow, thinking about this made him excited. A grin appeared on his face, and if one could see his expression one would wonder just what kind of thinking this man had in his head. ¡°Haa¡­ Anyway, where is that guy?¡± Noah''s destination was a serene corner of the city, a park-like area adorned with colorful flowers and elegant buildings. It was here that he had arranged to meet Wilhelm, his friend and subordinate from the real world. ¡°Ohh, here he goes¡­¡± The virtual sun cast a warm glow over the park as Noah spotted Wilhelm''s Mage avatar approaching. The familiar wave of his colleague''s hand brought a smile to Noah''s face. "Aye, boss!" Wilhelm greeted with a friendly smile, his voice resonating in a spirited sound. "Hey there Bro Wil... I mean, Wise Sage..." Noah aka Demerit Liberty replied, returning the gesture. "Wise Sage, huh? That''s quite the fitting ID for a mage like you." Noah quipped, amusement lacing his voice. " "Hahah, well, I figured if I''m going to be slinging spells, might as well go for something grand huh,¡± Wilhelm aka Wise Sage laughed, his shoulders shaking with mirth. ¡°Well, enough about me. What about you here, Boss? You look so happy and so eager, huh. I know, I can tell, because I know that feeling. Playing the game for the first days or so was really exciting not gonna lie." Noah grinned as he heard what Wise Sage said, ".... Haha... Gahahahaha... Yeah... True, I''m so excited right now to be honest. I feel like I wanna test my skills toward some monsters or something. Nah, what about players..." Wise Sage nodded his head as he heard what Noah said. He too somehow felt nostalgia as he remembered his situation when he was a newbie. Diving down into the New World was an eye opener for him. "Alright then... For starters, ready for some adventuring?" Noah asked in a low voice. Wise Sage''s nod was accompanied by a grin. "Let¡¯s! I''ve been exploring dungeons and honing my skills. Can''t wait to see what we can achieve together." Noah''s smile remained, but there was a thoughtful edge to his gaze. "Good. Oh, one more thing. I''d appreciate it if you don''t call me ''boss'' here." Wise Sage''s tilted its head slightly, a quizzical expression taking form. "May I ask why, uuhh.... Demerit¡­ Liberty?" Noah''s gaze held a depth of meaning that he hoped would convey his intention. "One of the reasons is about keeping a certain aspect of my identity concealed." Wise Sage''s eyes widened a bit as realization dawning. "Ah, I see what you mean." "There are times when we need to keep certain roles separate. Right now, I want to experience the game as just another player, without the added weight of being perceived as someene else..." Noah continued, his words measured and earnest. "I understand... Demerit¡­" Wilhelm replied in a somewhat awkward manner. "... Yeah, it might take a while to normalize but all I could say is to please bear with it..." Chapter 32 : Back at It Again Chapter 32 : Guild ¡­ [Name : Wise Sage] Class: High Sorcerer Level: 103 .... As Noah aka Demerit Liberty inspected Wilhelm or Wilhelm''s character status, he couldn''t help but nod his head at his friend''s accomplishments. A High Sorcerer named Wise Sage, had ascended to level 103, a remarkable feat by any standard especially relative to the time he joined. And the class High Sorcerer was one of great prestige and power, a great rank in the magic arts within the New World. Noah could also see that Wilhelm had expertly allocated his attribute points while choosing to put more points on intelligence which could maximize magical abilities. Each piece of equipment of his was also carefully chosen to complement Wise Sage''s playstyle as a High Sorcerer. The robe that he wore in particular, was an impressive item, and it was clear that his character was well-equipped just from a single glance. "Impressive. Alright, now there is something that I want us to talk about. Let''s get a good place to discuss." Noah said as he looked around. Wilhelm raised his eyebrow, but he nodded his head nonetheless. "Alright, I know some place here." ... As Noah and Wilhelm sat in a tavern bathed in the soft glow of the hanging lanterns that adorned the establishment, they delved into a discussion in order to shape their path within the vast and unpredictable world of the New World. Noah, at the moment, had a fiery image burning on him, one that seemed to be able to ignite the surrounding. ¡°...As we all know this fact already. This New World, is like that of the real world, with its own power dynamics, politics, and opportunities. This world was like the second world, the impact it brings is absolutely massive. And just like in the real world, influence is the key to success." Wise Sage, who was draped in robes of mystical significance, listened attentively. He knew Noah well enough to understand that when his friend spoke with such fervor, something significant was afoot. ¡°...I want to establish a presence, a guild, perhaps. Not just any guild, but one that can make a real impact in this world. We''ll gather individuals, adventurers who share our vision, and we''ll rise through the ranks, gaining recognition..." Noah continued. Wise Sage''s expression shifted from one of interest to one of contemplation. He understood the gravity of Noah''s proposal. In the New World, guilds were one of the cornerstones of power and influence. They could control territories, engage in economic endeavors, and even shape the game''s narrative through their actions. "You''re right," Wilhelm acknowledged, his voice toned. "But my friend..., you know as well as I do that competition in the New World can be fierce. Many guilds vie for dominance, and just like the saying, all is fair in war and love¡­ Forget the cringy last part but as I was saying, this is a place where the line between competition and cutthroat tactics can blur." He said with a suggestive tone. Noah nodded, acknowledging the significance in Wilhelm''s words. The New World was a place where players pursued success with an intensity that mirrored real-life ambitions. Nah, one could argue that the intensity seemed to be more rowdy here. In the quest for power, alliances were formed and shattered, intrigues were woven, and rivalries were forged in the fires of war. "That''s precisely why we need a clear vision," Noah spoke with conviction. This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience. ¡°I know this might seem daunting, but don''t belittle our potential. You''ve become a formidable High Sorcerer, and even I know that the class was not easy to get at all. You''ve earned your achievement through skill, dedication, and strategic thinking. And now, I believe it''s time for us to take the next step together." Wise Sage, with his robe adorned with magical symbols, still listened intently. There was a flicker in his eyes as he kept on listening to Noah¡¯s words. "Imagine the possibilities. In this game, power and influence can translate into real opportunities. Guilds have risen to prominence, controlled territories, and shaped the game''s narrative. By establishing our own guild, we can not only have influence but naturally get more material things. Wealth would be a natural thing to have too later on¡­" Noah continued with his hands that kept on gesturing his idea. Wilhelm pondered the notion. It wasn''t merely about acquiring in-game assets, building and getting more assets outside of the New World too was also the effects of it. This idea would naturally incite any people who heard it. But he had reservations. Cause from his way toward his current level 103 now, he had met many kinds of people and events. He knew what kind of place this New World was. A one of a kind game. The game that had shifted the focus of the world. The game that had shifted any big entertainments available. The game that had destroyed the barriers around the world, where now they could meet one another ''physically''. The game that had created a second life for anybody that played the game¡­ "Noah, I understand the potential, but you know how competitive this world can be. There are established guilds with vast resources and powerful alliances. What chance do we have?" Noah met his friend''s gaze, his eyes reflecting a burning determination. "It''s precisely because of those obstacles that this opportunity is so appealing. The road to success is filled with them¡­¡± Noah kept on talking his idea to Wise Sage, his voice brimming with fervor and goals. ¡°...And as our guild grows, so will our influence. We''ll control territories, getting bucks.... This chance is big, and it''s filled with opportunities waiting for us..." Wilhelm considered his friend''s words carefully. Noah''s vision was ambitious, but it was also inspiring. Even hearing his words set his heart aflame a little bit. "I see your point, De¡­merit. Becoming pioneers, founders, and such would be really such an achievement..." Wilhelm nodded, his initial reservations giving way to a hint of such imagination. A small smile crossed Noah''s face. "Exactly my friend. In the end, this goal was far more than achievements or bucks. We are thinking far ahead. I don''t know if I should say this to you, but it''s like the situation in the real world. If you want to be guaranteed for your income, you apply for a job. But if you want something greater, you take the risk and start your own business..." Wilhelm was a bit speechless. Yes, you are a successful person who has a good company alright, congratulations... Still, Wilhelm thought in his mind that Noah indeed had a point there. After all, in front of him, there was a door for him to just join a big guild and get a high position right off the bat. He knew what kind of capacity and capability that he had, and he believed it would be a matter of time to get it as long as he chose that way. Yet now, Noah had offered him an option. A chance for him to create something big with the man who had carved a path for himself back then. He knew it himself that Noah had worked, planned, and risked his efforts off to make his company back then. If he had the chance to make something similar with the said person as his collaborator, even if it was in this game, he would be more than happy to oblige. Especially when his affair in the real world wasn¡¯t in any kind of desperation. Under Noah¡¯s employment, he lived very well. ¡°Alright then, I''m with you Bo¡­ Demerit. Let''s build something remarkable in this world. A guild that not only excels but also is influential. A guild that would make us rich... wait, you are rich already..." Wilhelm nodded with a grin, his concerns seemingly had been tempered by his friend''s enthusiasm. As the two friends discussed their visions with laughter here and there, they knew that their path would be filled with obstacles. The New World was a place where legends were born, but it was also a place where countless dreams faded into obscurity. However, with their shared vision, a spark was naturally formed. Small it might be, but it somehow seemed like it could burn a whole forest if time let it be. In this realm, where possibilities seemed to be as vast as the imagination, Noah and Wilhelm, named as the Demerit Liberty and Wise Sage, set their sights on a new horizon. The two would occasionally reminiscent this discussion by themselves down the line of time, as if this decision had altered their whole destiny. And what kind of end they would get later on, time would tell. ¡­ "But hear out my suggestion first. Back at it again, I know that you want to build a guild and such, but it''s really not that easy to do so. The risk is too great. You might already know that we can only have one account in this game. Only one. I don''t know. Maybe I''m just being too cautious. But I''m trying to be cautious for the grand scheme that you have. So what I recommend is that, we join another guild first." Chapter 33 : Potential Chapter 33 : Potential As Noah and Wilhelm sat in the dimly lit tavern, the weight of their decision hung in the air. Noah''s ambition to establish their own guild was outspoken, but Wilhelm, the seemingly cautious High Sorcerer, still had a different perspective. "I understand the allure of creating our guild, but in this vast and complex world, we need to tread carefully. Rushing into it might lead to unforeseen accidents. I propose a different approach¡­" Wilhelm spoke, choosing his words carefully, Noah raised an eyebrow, curiosity looking in his eyes. He would naturally appreciate good insight and he knew that his friend wouldn''t suggest something without a good reason. "Before we establish our guild, we should consider joining an existing one. There are several advantages to this. Firstly, it provides us with immediate protection. We''ll be part of a larger organization, and this can deter potential threats." Wilhelm continued. Noah nodded, acknowledging the wisdom in Wilhelm''s words. The New World was a treacherous place, and safety in numbers was a common strat. "Furthermore, joining an established guild allows us to understand the inner workings of such organizations. We can learn from experienced leaders and observe the dynamics that make guilds successful¡­" Noah was silent as he seemingly contemplated words. It made sense. Building a guild from scratch was a monumental task. Learning from those who had already navigated the complex guild politics and management could be very valuable. "Networking and connections, Brother¡­ Demerit. By becoming members of an existing guild, we gain access to a network of players, some of whom may become our allies, collaborators, business partners, and others. It''s a way to expand our reach and influence." Wilhelm''s voice grew more animated as he enumerated the benefits. "And naturally, information. Let''s not forget about that. Being part of a guild means we''ll have better access to valuable information, rumors, and news circulating within the New World. Information is power." Noah nodded his head, "Rumors huh¡­ But yeah, that¡¯s true... We can use that information to our advantage, whether it''s in quests, trade, or strategic decisions. It''s a pretty rich soft resource." Noah took a moment to absorb all the points Wilhelm had raised. He looked as if he had been so focused on the idea of creating something new that he hadn''t considered the benefits of temporarily aligning with an established guild. "Honestly, you make compelling arguments. But there''s something we need to ensure by then. How do we choose the right guild? Not all of them share our values, and some might have conflicting goals." Wilhelm smiled, his demeanor changed from caution to thoughtful consideration. "That''s a valid concern. We should seek a guild whose values align with ours naturally or, at the very least, respect our principles. We can also communicate our expectations clearly from the start. Transparency is key after all." Noah nodded, appreciating the pragmatic approach. "And what about our long-term plan? Joining a guild is one thing, but eventually, we want to create our own. How do we transition in your opinion?" Wilhelm''s eyes gleamed, "Once we''ve gained experience, established connections, and honed our experiences within an existing guild, we can consider branching out. We''ll have the credibility and knowledge needed to create our guild successfully by then." Noah sighed with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. "You''ve given me much to think about. I think that¡¯s a good idea to start too. We''ll just proceed cautiously for now, as you suggest." This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it "This way, we can then maximize our chances of success in this ever-evolving world." Wilhelm smiled. In the end, Noah understood what made Wilhelm apprehensive and cautious. First of all, Wilhelm was a pretty experienced player, achieving level 100+ while also gaining a great class. Back then, Noah had advised him to start the game and improve. He followed his advice and now, he could honestly become rich if he wanted to just by joining other guilds and thrived there. But he held back. It was because of the man in front of him. He was not only his boss, but also someone he was indebted too. Noah had told him back then that he too would join the game, but he couldn''t meet up with Wilhelm at that time. Wilhelm acknowledged it, and wanted to follow the boss just like how he followed him in real life. So he decided to wait for Noah until he was able to finally meet each other. ¡°Alright¡­ What can you tell me about the guilds in this area? Do you have any idea?" Wilhelm adjusted his visage as his robe rippled in from the movement while he considered the question. His fingers tapped against the table as he navigated through his virtual interface, summoning information that he had. "Well," Wilhelm began, "there are several prominent guilds in this region of the game world, each with its own strengths and areas of influence. It all depends on what we''re looking for..." "Tell me about the guilds that excel in combat through their records," Noah requested. "I''m kinda curious about those kinds of guilds at the moment." Wilhelm ''s fingers flew across the keyboard, and a holographic interface materialized before him. It displayed a list of guilds, each with its emblem and a brief description of their specialties. "Here are a few," Wilhelm began, "First there is The Iron Fist, known for their approach to high pressure combat. They have a stronghold in the Arena of Champions and are skilled in team-based strategies." Noah listened attentively, his expression looked thoughtful. The Iron Fist sounded like a formidable group, one that could potentially provide the protection and connections they needed. "Any others?" Noah inquired as his eyes narrowed in thought. Wilhelm scrolled down the list. "There''s also the Pale Shroud," he continued. "They''ve made a name for themselves through ruthless tactics and a penchant for guerrilla warfare. They''ve been a thorn in the side of many guilds here." Noah smirked at the mention of the Pale Shroud. Their reputation for cunning and unorthodox strategies intrigued him. Such a guild could be a valuable asset if used correctly. "What about the Valiant Wave?" Noah asked, and his mouth formed a little curve. Wilhelm took a moment before answering. "Valiant Wave is another formidable guild, known for their battle maniac tendencies. They thrive on constant warfare and have a strong presence in the Town of Willowfen." "And, there''s something you might know about this Valiant Wave. They are currently embroiled in a fierce war with a rival guild called Wreaking Havoc." Noah''s eyebrows shot up in exaggerated surprise. "A war, you say? Tell me more." Wilhelm nodded, his avatar displaying a holographic interface with details of the ongoing conflict. "It appears that the two guilds have been locked in a bitter struggle for supremacy. It''s a battle for control, territory, and dominance within the area." "Who initiated the conflict?" Noah asked. Wilhelm scrolled through the interface, searching for the details. "...It seems that the conflict was sparked by a territorial dispute. Both guilds claim ownership of key locations within the game, and tensions reached a boiling point." Territory meant resources, power, and influence, all of which were highly sought-after in the competitive world of New World. The stakes were undeniably high. "...What about casualties?" Noah inquired. "There have been casualties on both sides. Players from Valiant Wave and Wreaking Havoc have fallen in battle. They seem determined to settle their differences through force." Wilhelm said, but then he suddenly remembered something. "...There was something else in that matter too. There was a pretty unique event where suddenly a spearman appeared in a battle between those two guilds. Noah raised his eyebrow as he inquired further, "About time, I mean, oh? What''s with this spearman?" Wilhelm answered solemnly, "That spearman disrupted one of their battles single handedly recently. Even I was surprised hearing that. If I¡¯m not mistaken, his name is Straight. In my opinion. that spearman had the potential to become a high caliber player in the future¡­" Chapter 34 : Bounty Chapter 34 : Bounty Wilhelm then continued to provide Noah with insights into this interesting player known as Straight and his part in the battle. The more he revealed, the more Noah seemed to be fascinated. "So, let me get this straight, pun might be intended. A level 30 player, managed to create chaos in the midst of a battle between higher-level opponents, most of whom were around level 50 or so?" Wilhelm nodded, confirming Noah''s understanding. "That''s correct. It''s not just the level difference that''s impressive, it''s the skill with which Straight executed his actions¡­" In most scenarios of lower levelled players, level disparities of that magnitude would often result in a swift defeat for the lower-level player. Yet Straight had not only survived but thrived in such a scenario. "Tell me more about his tactics," Noah pressed, looking eager to dissect the situation from the points of an outsider. Wilhelm brought up a holographic display that showcased a view of the battlefield where Straight had made his mark. "From what I could gather, Straight utilized hit-and-run tactics with exceptional strats. He seemed to prioritize eliminating high value targets, such as healers and spellcasters, before swiftly retreating from the frontlines." Noah zoomed in closer to examine the holographic representation, "Did he have any distinct abilities or skills that set him apart?" "...While I don''t have a comprehensive list of his skills, it''s clear that Straight''s proficiency in combat is extraordinary. He not only excelled in close combat by using his spear, but he also had some set of skills that had powerful elemental attributes. As if he was a mage¡­¡± Wilhelm considered the question for a moment before responding. ¡°Still, he appears to have a deep understanding of his class and a mastery of his abilities as he used them efficiently. And looks like this made him able to engage his opponents with ease, even in the face of numerical disadvantages." Noah nodded his head. In the realm of New World, mastery of one''s character class and abilities was often the key to success. By knowing when or where to land the corresponding strikes, that would be the best moment to deal damage. "And his combat style is interesting honestly," Wilhelm continued. "As a spearman, he seemed to uniquely possess both melee and ranged capabilities, granting him versatility in combat. This might explain his ability to engage opponents at different ranges effectively. Either it was because of his class, getting some rare scrolls that gave skills, or he had a powerful item. Might be some. But dang, very powerful player in a nutshell." "I see¡­ Hmmm¡­ Then what about his motivations? Why would a player like Straight involve himself in the affairs of two powerful guilds?" Noah inquired with a little smile, looking to be happy for some reason. Wilhelm''s holographic display changed to show a virtual forum post related to Straight that he had saved. "There''s no concrete information on his motivations, but there''s speculation among players. Some believe that Straight may have a personal vendetta or a hidden agenda. Others think he''s simply a mercenary, willing to take on any job for the right price. Or he was just trying to get some wealth from the bounties and drops." In the complex landscape of New World, players often had multifaceted reasons for their actions. Understanding Straight''s motivations could be crucial if one was to be impacted by his actions. And Wilhelm understood that Noah asked this question could be related to this. "Regardless of his motivations, such individuals would be valuable allies, eh¡­¡± Noah spoke as he entangled his fingers. Wilhelm nodded in agreement. "I concur. However, approaching Straight will require careful diplomacy. Given his actions, he might be cautious about forming alliances." Noah grinned. "Well... Such man''s thinking would be hard to understand, probably. It would take a lot to even reel him to one''s side. You seem to be very interested in him. Are you sure that you can get in contact with him, or, even put him into our side?" Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Wilhelm''s visage mirrored Noah''s seemingly intrigued face. "We can only try, I guess. We''ll gather information on Straight, understand his background, and find a way to contact him. With him on our side, our path to influence in the New World will become clearer." ¡°And there was another thing as well. This dang spearman was able to defeat the commander of that Wreaking Havoc, Onyxium in that battle. I don¡¯t intend to brag, just to prove a point but even me, at that level, would be a little bit hard pressed to defeat him¡­" Wilhelm then explained how the battle went on and his revelations about Straight''s pivotal role in the battle against Onyxium, the commander of Wreaking Havoc, left Noah both astonished and intrigued, judging from his exaggerated expression. "... You''re telling me that Straight defeated Onyxium despite being at a lower level and facing Onyxium''s forces, at the same time?" Noah sought confirmation, needing to ensure that what Wilhelm said was correct. Wilhelm nodded solemnly. "Yes, that''s the consensus among players who witnessed the event. Onyxium''s defeat sent shockwaves throughout the corresponding area." ¡°I see¡­¡± Noah had a surprised expression on his face. Battles between guilds and high-profile players were common in New World, but the circumstances surrounding Onyxium''s demise were truly extraordinary. "What led to their encounter?" Noah inquired, his curiosity piqued. "Did they have a prior history, or was it a random skirmish?" Wilhelm leaned back on his chair with a sigh, organizing his thoughts. "There''s no concrete information about their history or what triggered their clash. Some players speculate that it might have been a chance encounter in the midst of the battle. Others suggest that there might be deeper reasons, possibly related to in-game politics or territory disputes." Noah nodded his head as if he was happy for Straight that his purpose remained a mystery. Wilhelm could tell that Noah was trying to take this information seriously. The New World was a vast and complex virtual society with its own power struggles and rivalries, after all. Having knowledge of some key players would be crucial in a lot of cases. "Tell me a bit more about Onyxium," Noah urged. "What do we know about him, other than his role as the commander in that battle?" Wilhelm activated a holographic interface, displaying information about Onyxium. "Onyxium was renowned for being a Paladin, an advanced class of the Warrior path. He was known for his being one of the main forces within that guild and his impressive combat skills." Noah observed the displayed attributes and achievements of Onyxium. It was clear that the commander was a formidable figure within this area. "Paladins are known for their durability, support abilities, and some powerful skills right." Noah noted. "Defeating one in combat is no small feat, especially for a player like Straight, huh?" Wilhelm nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Paladins are often considered one of the toughest classes to take down due to their defensive capabilities. Straight''s victory over Onyxium speaks volumes about his combat prowess, right¡­ Am I tripping or somehow your head looks a bit bigger than before?" "Must be your imagination. Anyway, do we know anything about what happened after Onyxium''s defeat?" Noah asked, looking eager for more details. Wilhelm brought up a timeline of events following Onyxium''s demise. "After Onyxium fell, chaos erupted within Wreaking Havoc. Some members questioned the guild''s capabilities, while small sums defected to other guilds. The situation truly made the Wreaking Havoc in havoc." WIlhelm laughed a little. ¡°The aftermath of Onyxium''s defeat had left Wreaking Havoc a little bit vulnerable, and rival guilds were likely capitalizing on the situation. And naturally, bounties were put over Straight''s head. Especially from Wreaking Havoc¡­¡± Wilhelm added with a low voice. "So, both Wreaking Havoc and Valiant Wave have put bounties on Straight, huh. Well that makes sense, considering the disruption he caused." ¡°Yes, but there''s a significant difference between the bounties they''ve offered. Wreaking Havoc has placed a much higher reward on Straight. A huge sum of it. Likely out of vengeance and the desire to reclaim their lost image.¡± Wilhelm added as his expression became thoughtful. ¡°Valiant Wave, on the other hand, has a lower bounty, indicating a more measured response. Even though Valiant Members suffered too from Straight''s assault, they seemed to not suffer a lot. Especially regarding prestige.... Now that I mentioned prestige, that guy probably used the two guild''s battle as a stepping stone, dang." "But what about the other mercenaries you mentioned?" Noah asked with raised eyebrow. "There are indeed others in the game who hunt down members of both Wreaking Havoc and Valiant Wave for bounties. It''s become a sort of ''gold rush'', with players looking to profit from the turmoil. But their impact was not as massive as that Straight, so yea¡­ Same treatment, but it''s like the sky and the earth." Wilhelm leaned forward on the table, a spark of excitement in his eyes. "I''ve been thinking about this spearman, and I believe we should reach out to Straight. We can offer our support, and maybe propose a partnership. We could seriously form a formidable team. But honestly, he probably has a background already. Can we even reach out to him after all, huh. Anyway, let''s do some raids or something first. Let me see how you fare in fights and battles. I can guide you to become better." Chapter 35 : Your Exact Class Chapter 35 : Your Exact Class Wilhelm''s suggestion to go grinding resonated with Noah. It was a practical approach to bridge the gap between their current levels and those of more seasoned players after all. And with a casual nod from Noah, the two of them proceeded to set out in order to find a suitable grinding spot in the near area. ¡­ As they traversed the expansive landscape, they looked at their in-game maps and navigational tools to pinpoint the ideal location for grinding. In their previous brief discussion, they settled on a place known as the "Twilight Gorge," a canyon shrouded in mist and teeming with quite strong monsters. The canyon was bathed in a perpetual twilight, casting long shadows over rock formations and meandering streams. Luminous light added an otherworldly glow to the surroundings. But the breathtaking scenery was not the reason they had come here. The Twilight Gorge was known for its mobs, each offering generous experience points for players who could defeat them. It was a place where adventurers came to test their skills, earn valuable loot, and, of course, level up. ¡°Here we go¡­¡± Wilhelm spoke while looking at the surroundings. Packs of shadowy wolves with gleaming eyes stalked the party, while massive stone golems patrolled the narrow pathways. Noah and Wilhelm could easily tell that they had come toward their destination. ... [Shadowfang Wolf] Level: 42 HP: 12,500/12,500 [Stone Golem Guardian] Level: 45 HP: 14,000/14,000 [Duskwing Bat] Level: 40 HP: 11,800/11,800 [Twilight Elemental] Level: 48 HP: 15,000/15,000 [Obsidian Crawler] Level: 43 HP: 13,200/13,200 ... Wilhelm, as a seasoned player that he himself acknowledged off, took the lead. Noah naturally let Wilhelm do that because as far as Wilhelm knew, Noah was still a pretty new player. So naturally, as someone who supposedly had more knowledge, he led the grind. ¡°Attack the monsters that I¡¯ve marked¡­¡± Wilhelm said while enchanting a spell. He had looked at the information of the creatures that inhabited the Twilight Gorge, and he knew which mobs would provide the most experience points without posing an insurmountable threat for Noah. With a thoughtful plan, he guided Noah through their battles. ¡°Alright.¡± Noah''s grip tightened around his trusty halberd, one of the weapons he had grown fond of in his adventures thus far. With its razor-sharp blade and sturdy shaft, it was the perfect choice for a relatively close-ranged fighter like himself. Wilhelm, on the other hand, stood beside him, seemingly ready to unleash the devastating power toward the monsters. ¡°Gggrrrrrr¡­¡± A pack of Shadowfang Wolves. These level 42 beasts, with their matted fur and gleaming red eyes, were the perfect subjects for their hunt. "Brother Demerit, remember you''re the frontline here. Get their attention, and I''ll follow up with some powerful AoE spells. You being the frontline, so that you can be normalized as a close ranged fighter even though I can act as the tank too cause my level is high enough.¡± ¡°But to make it more efficient and effective for our roles, I will be on the back to deal AoE as I conveyed before. Just use this chance too to also train in fighting " Wilhelm spoke in a low voice. Noah nodded and stepped forward, raising his halberd high. The Shadowfang Wolves, sensing a threat, lunged at him with bared fangs. Kraanngg¡­ Noah expertly parried their attacks. Wilhelm watched as Noah deftly maneuvered, drawing the attention of the wolves. With a quick incantation, he summoned a fiery rain of fire balls that crashed down upon their foes. The wolves yelped and whimpered as the flames consumed them, their HP bars rapidly decreasing. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. "These spells have area-of-effect damage. Use your agility to keep the enemies grouped together, and I can take care of the rest." Noah nodded, understanding the part between their roles. He continued to dance through the battle, luring the wolves closer together while dodging their lunges. Wilhelm, with a flourish of his staff, cast another spell, creating a whirlwind of energy that froze the remaining wolves in place. Ssshhhhh¡­ The corpses of the Shadowfang Wolves lay scattered on the rocky ground and turned into light particles soon after. Their grind proved to be quite effective when they saw that Noah¡¯s exp bar spiked noticeably. ¡°Let¡¯s move on¡­¡± Wilhelm said and started to walk fast. They ventured deeper into the gorge and soon encountered Stone Golem Guardians, towering at level 45, blocking their path. These massive constructs were heavily armored and boasted an impressive HP pool of 14,000 each. Wilhelm''s eyes glinted as he sized up the monster. "We''ll need to coordinate our attacks carefully for these. They''re slow but pack a punch. I''ll use my spells to weaken their armor, and you go for the joints." Noah nodded, his halberd at the ready. Dasshh He charged at the nearest Stone Golem Guardian, targeting its knee joint with impactful strikes. Wilhelm''s spell impacted toward the monster, creating hairline fractures in the golem''s stony exterior. Kraacckk With a well-placed strike, Noah shattered the weakened joint, causing the guardian to topple to the ground as its HP rapidly depleting. Wilhelm finished them off quickly and moved on to the next one, repeating the process. Their synchronization was impeccable for a relatively new party, and the Stone Golem Guardians fell one by one. As they continued their grind, Noah seemed to be absorbing Wilhelm''s guidance like a sponge. Wilhelm taught how to engage Duskwing Bats in mid-flight, using his halberd to disrupt their erratic flight patterns. He capitalized the art of dodging the energy projectiles unleashed by Twilight Elementals and retaliating when they were vulnerable. The Obsidian Crawlers, level 43 monstrosities with a penchant for ambushing, proved to be another well obstruction. Wilhelm taught Noah the importance of situational awareness, and together they devised tactics to counter the crawlers'' surprise attacks. Wilhelm could feel the growth not only in Noah¡¯s character experiences, but even in his understanding of combat tactics as a team. ... As the hours passed, the experience points began to accumulate, and Noah''s experience bar steadily increased. The feeling of growth was exhilarating, and Noah could feel his character becoming more capable with each battle. It was a stark contrast to the earlier days of his journey when every encounter had been a struggle met with a stuck experience. ¡°Bout the dang time, haha¡­¡± Noah laughed a bit loud. Wilhelm smiled while looking at how Noah became excited like this. He too was like that back then, fighting the strong looking monsters for the first time and became excited in facing them . Especially when they were being carried by a high ranking player and swept through the mobs just like this¡­ ¡°Don¡¯t forget to look over your stamina and mana,¡± Wilhelm spoke while unleashing a buff speel over Noah. He offered guidance and advice along the way, in order to help Noah fine-tune his combat techniques and adapt to the mobs of the Twilight Gorge. At least that was what he intended to do at the first battles. Because the more they fought, the more Wilhelm came to realize that Noah was very capable of himself. Wilhelm observed Noah''s combat prowess with a mix of surprise and admiration. It was clear that Noah possessed a level of skill and capability that exceeded his apparent level. As a level 30 player, Noah shouldn''t have been able to deal such high damage or display such agility in battle. Yet, he moved through their encounters with finesse, leaving Wilhelm in awe. In the world of New World, damage dealt in combat was influenced by several factors. Among them were damage amplifiers, and one of the most popular amplifiers was the critical hit. Critical hits could significantly increase the damage of an attack, turning an otherwise ordinary strike into a devastating blow. These critical hits could occur for various reasons, including critical hit amplification from rare items or weapons, or the ability to target vital points on an opponent especially with powerful attacks. And Wilhelm had a hunch that Noah''s prowess was linked to the third type, hitting vital points with power and precision. Simply because Noah''s level was still too low, hence he should not have any impressive items. ¡°There are also luck factors as I¡¯ve heard, but a level 30 player with luck attributes? Who am I kidding?¡± Wilhem laughed at that notion. While luck attributes and items seemed to play a role, he knew that getting them luck attributes was as hard as scaling the earth. Meanwhile, even though the second factor required a high level of skill and precision, it was also the easiest path on the surface. It involved knowing an enemy''s weaknesses, understanding their movements, and striking with pinpoint accuracy plus timing. Everybody had the chance to do this, but not everyone could achieve this. A talented player, one could say. "Dang... As expected of my boss, I guess." Wilhelm muttered under his breath. ... Between battles, they took moments to reevaluate their moves. Practices make perfect after all, so it would be better for them to reassess their combos and timings. And when the sun began to dip below the horizon, bathing the gorge in deeper shades of twilight, Noah and Wilhelm decided to call it a day. Their packs were filled with loot from fallen mobs, and Noah''s character had made substantial progress in leveling up. He was now a level 31. And that was already amazing in itself. After all, gaining a level in this game was not easy. He could only achieve it because there was Wilhelm who essentially carried him in this grinding. His damage as a High Sorcerer with a level 103 could be imagined easily. As they finished up, they then returned to a safe spot near the gorge''s entrance, where they could log out or discuss their next steps. "Right, I haven''t gotten the chance to check your class. What is your exact class? Warrior?" Wilhelm asked calmly. Chapter 36 : Halberdier Chapter 44 : Halberdier, Obscura Signet Wilhelm¡¯s curiosity piqued by Noah''s combat prowess and the abilities he had displayed, and he couldn''t help but inquire about Noah''s class. In the New World, a player''s class was a defining aspect of their identity and capabilities. It determined the skills and abilities they could employ in battle, as well as their role within a party or guild. With a sly smile playing on his lips, Noah decided to reveal a snippet of his persona. "At the moment," he replied, "I am a Halberdier." Wilhelm raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the response. "A pretty interesting class, if I do say so myself." The Halberdier class was known for its formidable medium-close combat skills, specializing in wielding halberds that combined the features of an axe or blade and a spear. But there was something about Noah''s tone that hinted at a hidden layer to his class. Unbeknownst to Wilhelm, Noah possessed a unique ability that allowed him to manipulate how his class appeared to others. And that ability came from the ring that he had, one of the most precious items that he had at the moment too, named Obscura Signet. Asking someone about the information regarding the related person''s character was quite taboo. Especially between strangers and people who didn''t know each other. It was natural because one''s information was a privacy, information that could be used to tackle the related person. But that didn''t mean that the others couldn''t use other means to get the information out of that related person. There were skills and items that improved players'' observation skills, and if that was high or capable enough, they could peer into the observed players. But this ring, Obscura Signet, was an extremely rare kind of item, an artifact that granted its wearer more control over their status panel and the information it revealed to others. ... [Obscura Signet] Type : Ring Rarity : Secret +15% Wisdom +15% Stamina +15% Dexterity Description: Crafted by unknown hands in the depths of history, this artifact grants its wearer the ability to manipulate the information displayed in their status panel. The ring provides the wearer with limited control over what information they share with others. It allows for selective disclosure of details while concealing data. Abilities: 1. Class Concealment: The wearer can choose to hide their current class, preventing others from discerning their true profession or specialization.
  1. Class Change : Changing the user''s class status to the class the user wanted, for as long as the user could use the minimum set skills of that supposed class.
  2. Level Camouflage: The Obscura Signet allows the user to temporarily alter their outward level appearance. This feature, however, can only reduce the displayed level, not increase it.
... A Secret Rarity item! Secret Rarity items were the stuff of unknowns even for many people... The Obscura Signet, in particular, was special for its interesting abilities. When worn, it granted the wearer the extraordinary ability to manipulate the information displayed in their status panel. This meant that Noah could not only hide specific details about his class, level, or abilities from other players but also alter them at will. It was a power that few could comprehend, let alone harness. The origins of the Obscura Signet were shrouded in mystery, much like the item itself. Regardless of its origin, one thing was certain. Its utility was absolutely immense. For Noah, the Obscura Signet had become an invaluable asset, allowing him to operate in a world where information was often the key to success. The ability to hide his class information was just the tip of the iceberg. With this powerful artifact, he could mask his true identity more, adopt temporary disguises, or even present himself as a member of another class when it suited his needs. It was a level of subterfuge that added layers of complexity to his arsenal. It also allowed Noah to alter his status panel in creative ways. For example, during his encounters with Wilhelm, he had used it to present himself as a Halberdier while retaining the abilities of a Battlemage. Wilhelm was a cautious person, and that could be known from how he tried in suggesting Noah to join other guilds first instead of building from scratch. That could be interpreted that Wilhelm was more cautious than Noah. But if Wilhelm could see Noah''s situation, he might be ashamed to acknowledge that he was a cautious person... Also, to possess such an item was to wield a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provided Noah with a tactical advantage, like simply enabling him to surprise opponents, infiltrate guilds incognito, and manipulate the perceptions of those around him. On the other hand, it meant that he had to tread carefully, for the Obscura Signet was a coveted prize. Other players would stop at nothing to obtain it, and the consequences of its loss could be dire. Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. The ability to allow him to camouflage or alter his class name, making it appear as though he belonged to a different class, all while retaining the capabilities of his hidden class, Battlemage, had a prerequisite as mentioned above. But the amazing thing about Battle Mage was that Battle Mage allowed the user to master other close combat''s skills and ability, for as long as the user was able to master it. After all, one would need to master physical combat skills as the requirement. How could you be a Battlemage if you don¡¯t even know how to fight in close range? One of the reasons why Battlemage was a very coveted class, for those who even knew its existence. All in all, this item was really suited with Battlemage with how it could be used to hide the class vastly better. To hide, one would need to have the set skills of the supposed class. And with Battlemage, one would have the capacity to achieve that. Such combinations that compliment each other perfectly like this, Noah wondered what kind of expression Wilhelm would have if the latter knew it. ... [Class : Halberdier] Skills :
  1. Halberd Strike: The basic skill of the Halberdier, a powerful overhand strike with the halberd that delivers a heavy blow to the target.
Mana Cost: 10 Cooldown: 1 second Duration: Instant
  1. Impale: Thrusts the halberd forward, impaling enemies at a distance and pinning them to the ground, rendering them immobile for a short duration.
Mana Cost: 15 Cooldown: 12 seconds Duration: Pinning effect lasts for 5 seconds
  1. Sweeping Cleave: Executes a wide swinging motion with the halberd, striking all nearby enemies in a 180-degree arc, dealing damage to multiple foes simultaneously.
Mana Cost: 20 Cooldown: 8 seconds Duration: Instant
  1. Counterstance: Assumes a defensive stance with the halberd, increasing the Halberdier''s resistance to incoming attacks and reflecting a portion of the damage back to attackers.
Mana Cost: 25 Cooldown: 20 seconds Duration: 10 seconds
  1. Piercing Dash: Charges forward with great speed, impaling the first enemy in the path and knocking them back. A chance for them to be vulnerable to physical attacks relative to stats.
Mana Cost: 15 Cooldown: 10 seconds Duration: Instant
  1. Guardian''s Shield: Raises the halberd in front to form a temporary energy shield, reducing incoming damage and granting brief invulnerability to status effects.
Mana Cost: 30 Cooldown: 30 seconds Duration: 15 seconds
  1. Halberd Throw: Hurls the halberd at a distant target, dealing ranged damage before it returns to the Halberdier''s hand.
Mana Cost: 25 Cooldown: 15 seconds Duration: Ranged attack, instant
  1. Retribution Strike: Empowers the halberd with divine energy, causing the next attack to deal extra damage and heal the Halberdier for a portion of the damage dealt.
Mana Cost: 20 Cooldown: 5 seconds (internal cooldown) Duration: Next attack, instant
  1. Halberd Spin: Spins the halberd rapidly, creating a whirlwind of destruction around the Halberdier, dealing continuous damage to nearby enemies.
Mana Cost: 40 Cooldown: 20 seconds Duration: 5 seconds (continuous damage)
  1. Titan''s Stance: Temporarily transforms the Halberdier into an unstoppable force, greatly increasing their size, strength, and durability for a short duration.
Mana Cost: 50 Cooldown: 90 seconds Duration: 30 seconds
  1. Final Stand: In dire situations, the Halberdier takes a last stand, decreasing all damage taken and effects for a short period, while dealing massive retaliation damage to attackers.
Mana Cost: 75 Cooldown: 180 seconds Duration: 10 seconds of decreased damage and negative effects taken ... Noah had acquired those Halberdier class'' skills thanks to his Battlemage class long ago. The reason why he seldom used the skills of this subclass was mostly because he didn¡¯t even have the chance to use them as he had other plethora skills in his sleeves. "As you can see yourself..." Noah said to Wilhelm. The Battle Mage class, valued for its versatility in mastering a variety of melee classes, provided Noah with the foundation needed to embrace the Halberdier''s skills, also the reason why he could acquire them easily. It was this adaptability that allowed him to seamlessly adopt the role of a Halberdier in combat. "A Halberdier, huh? That''s an interesting choice... It''s not every day you come across a player who could be as impressive as you, not gonna lie." Wilhelm put his hand on his chin as he smiled approvingly from looking at Noah¡¯s shown status. "Thanks yeah..." Noah merely shrugged and smiled, his gaze focused on the path ahead. He also couldn''t help but wonder about Wilhelm''s High Sorcerer class. He was keen to learn more about the magical powers at Wilhelm''s disposal. ... "Hmm...? What''s that?" Wilhelm said as he pointed at a certain location. And at that exact location, there was an old looking chest. Chapter 37 : Treasure Chest Chapter 37 : Treasure Chest Amidst the skirmishes with mobs and the discussions on tactics, Noah and Wilhelm suddenly stumbled upon a discovery. Nestled in a dimly lit alcove, obscured by the gnarled roots of a colossal tree, lay an old and ornate chest. The sight of it stirred their excitement, as both players recognized this as a rare and exhilarating opportunity. A treasure chest! The chest, seemingly worn by time and sealed with a lock, exuded an aura of mystery. Its oak panels bore etchings of age-old looking symbols. The metallic clasps, rusted with the passage of time, clung tightly to the chest''s wooden frame, as if guarding its hidden contents. "Welp, would you look at that. Luck is on our side today. We''ve found a treasure chest, dang." Wilhelm, his eyes gleaming in lit, turned to Noah. "Yup, luck seems to be on our way. Let''s see what this chest holds," Noah''s expression mirrored Wilhelm''s enthusiasm. The allure of treasure chest in any game was irresistible, let alone in this New World. Though it seemed to be more enthusiastic than Wilhelm, as if he was truly mesmerized by the treasure chest itself just like how a person that found its first treasure chest. ¡­ Or because of something else, like how he was mesmerized by a certain attribute that could possibly influence this to happen. With caution, Noah approached the chest, examining it closely. He traced his fingers along the carved symbols. "I am sure that this one is a Rare Rarity Treasure Chest. Very good." Wilhelm observed with keen interest, offering his insights regarding the type of treasure chest as he nodded his head. "This lock seems troublesome. It might require a specific key or combination." Noah explained after he realized that there needed to be key inserted in it. Wilhelm nodded, reaching into his inventory. "I have a few tricks that might do the thing. Let''s give them a try." Noah was quite surprised as he looked at Wilhelm, "I didn''t know that you had some specialty in this field." Wilhelm only smiled in return. Their eyes soon focused on the delicate task at hand. Wilhelm inserted a slender lockpick into the keyhole, and Noah observed the internal mechanism of the lock. Seconds passed like hours as the lock''s inner workings slowly revealed their secrets. The last tumbler clicked into place, and with a grin, Wilhelm turned the lock. Clack The chest''s clasps relinquished their grip, and the aged wood creaked as it opened, revealing the treasure concealed within. The sight that met their eyes left them awestruck. Within the chest lay an array of items, each radiating with a faint, otherworldly glow. Ancient looking scrolls, glittering gemstones, and enchanted weaponry were neatly arranged, waiting to be claimed. "... We should¡¯ve hit a jackpot. Wild." Wilhelm sighed in melancholy. Noah¡¯s eyes fixed on the treasure as he nodded his head. "...Well, let''s examine these items first closely and determine their worth." As Noah and Wilhelm marveled at the treasure chest''s contents, their initial excitement gave way to a stop as if they realized something. They weren''t alone. With a calm glance, the two players sensed a presence behind them. Slowly, they turned to face a group of players who had emerged from the shades of the surroundings, where their eyes fixed on the open chest and its contents. Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. The newcomers, a motley crew of various classes and levels, approached with a mixture of curiosity and interest in their gestures. It was evident from their expressions that they, too, had been drawn by the allure of the chest. Their numbers, while not overwhelming, presented a form of intimidation. The group''s leader, a seasoned looking warrior clad in formidable armor, stepped forward. He bore the emblem of a guild known as the Iron Might. Noah and Wilhelm exchanged a silent understanding. They had two choices: assert their claim to the treasure or confront the newcomers. The latter seemed inevitable, given the newcomers'' glinting eyes to seize the treasure for themselves. As for letting these guys get it? It seemed to be not in their list at all. Without words, Noah gripped his halberd and stood as a sentinel before the chest. Wilhelm, his hand aglow with energy,also stood calmly beside the chest. "Step aside. It¡¯s better not to die senselessly after all." Thornshard, the leader of the Iron Might, addressed Noah with a tone that brooked no compromise. ... [Name : Thornshard] Level 105 Class : Bloodrager ... Thornshard looked at Noah and Wilhelm with a look of intimidation as he wanted to avoid clash if possible and get the loot freely. Cause he knew that that Wilhelm guy was strong. He believed that he could take on him. After all Wilhelm was alone, while he had team mates here. But what made him be daring to act tough was because he had a guild behind him. A pretty powerful guild in a city called Havenholm. And for the level 31 player, Noah, he didn''t even put him in his eyes. He could just let a level 50 person deal with him. ¡°Yup, you heard what he said." Noah''s response was steadfast. Tension hung in the air like a storm gathering strength. The forest, once a tranquil backdrop to their adventure, now bore witness to a clash of wills. The members of the Iron Might fanned out, surrounding Noah and Wilhelm. The confrontation was poised on the brink, waiting for the spark that would ignite the inevitable conflict. ¡°As you wish¡­ Brother Demerit!¡± Wilhelm shouted while clasping his hands which coalesced the ambient energies that danced around him, outwarding the energies in his grasp toward the surrounding players quickly that gave no room for them to even act in time. Bhaammmm¡­. And then it came. The energy surged in a brilliant light. Like a tidal wave of incandescent power, the force spread rapidly, ¡°You¡­¡± Thornshard looked stunned. The others, caught completely off guard, could only watch in stunned pause as the attack shattered their formation, sending shockwaves through the ranks. And that single attack disrupted the circle that they had formed. ¡°Ohhhh!!!¡± ¡°Go!¡± ¡°Get them!¡± Still, a fierce battle cry erupted from the Iron Might in order to rally their core and with that, the clash was inevitable. Dasshh Thornshard, the leader of the Iron Might¡¯s party, surged forward with his massive greatsword flashing in the dappled light as he aimed a swift lethal strike toward Noah. He appeared so fastly that his allies weren¡¯t even halfway toward Noah and Wilhelm. As the mage had directed his attacks toward his subordinate, then he would return it in wise by attacking Wilhelm¡¯s lower levelled ally too! Yet, just as his momentum built to deliver the decisive blow, a brilliant surge of energy erupted from Wilhelm¡¯s outstretched hands. The air trembled as his spell materialized, a pulsating blast of kinetic energy bursting forth in an instant. The spell struck Thornshard with crushing force, intercepting his attack and halting his momentum mid-charge. ¡°Gah¡ª!¡± Thornshard grunted as the sheer impact sent him staggering back, his boots scraping against the rough forest floor as he struggled to regain his footing. His iron grip on the greatsword wavered for just a fraction of a second as his body instinctively bracing against the sudden magical force that had blindsided him. Wilhelm smirked, his hands still surrounded with energy. "You''re too slow, big guy." Thornshard¡¯s expression darkened, a flicker of irritation flashing in his eyes. After all, Thornshard knew it himself just how fast he had moved in that instant. His speed had always been one of his greatest assets. Yet, despite the sheer velocity of his lunge and the sudden arc of his greatsword carving through the air, it hadn¡¯t been enough. The mage had seen through his movement the very moment he initiated it. Grinding his teeth, he steadied his stance, gripping his greatsword tightly as his muscles tensed. His eyes flickered toward Wilhelm. ¡°Come on then¡­¡± Chapter 38 : Come Chapter 38 : Come ¡°Leave him to me,¡± Thornshard, the war-hardened Bloodrager, warmed up his shoulders. His greatsword gleamed menacingly as he adjusted his stance. Across from him stood Wilhelm, the aka Wise Sage, with his robes fluttering slightly from the residual energy of his last spell. The followers of Thornshard understood their leader¡¯s intention quickly. He wanted to make this mage occupied and then left the halberd guy for them to take care of. With such arrangements, they would naturally obey his orders and gave space for their leader to make room for himself. ¡°Come!¡± Dasshhh With a powerful stomp, he propelled himself forward, closing the gap between them in an instant. His greatsword carved through the air in a brutal downward arc, as if aiming to cleave Wilhelm in two. The sheer force of the attack split the ground beneath them, sending dirt and leaves flying. Kssshhhh But Wilhelm was already moving. With a flick of his hand, a translucent barrier shimmered into existence just as Thornshard¡¯s blade made contact. The impact sent a ripple through the protective spell, the air vibrating from the force of the clash. Despite blocking the attack, the raw power behind it was undeniable as it seemed that the barrier would not be able to hold on for long from how the outsiders perceive it. "Not bad," Wilhelm muttered as his fingers formed sigils in the air. Hhhrrrrtttt A pulse of magical energy erupted from Wilhelm¡¯s outstretched hands. The force sent Thornshard skidding backward, his boots carving trenches into the earth. But the warrior recovered almost instantly, his blood-red aura intensifying as he activated a buffing skill. ¡°Berserker¡¯s Endurance¡­.¡± His wounds closed slightly, and his muscles bulged with enhanced strength. "You''re not the only one with tricks," Thornshard growled. With a burst of speed, he feinted left, then spun into a horizontal slash, forcing Wilhelm to react quickly. The mage sidestepped, his robe billowing, but Thornshard anticipated this. Twisting his grip on the greatsword, he brought it back around in a reverse sweep, an attack too fast for a mage to dodge. Wilhelm smirked. In the blink of an eye, he vanished, his form dissipating into shimmering light just as the blade passed through where he had been. A fraction of a second later, he reappeared behind Thornshard, a spell already crackling at his fingertips. ¡°Light Lance!¡± A concentrated bolt of light energy surged forward, slamming into Thornshard¡¯s back. The force sent the warrior hurtling forward, crashing through the underbrush. Smoke sizzled from his armor where the magic had struck, but he barely faltered, rolling back onto his feet with a growl. His health bar had taken a noticeable hit, but the fire in his eyes burned hotter than ever. "Annoying," Thornshard spat, gripping his greatsword tighter. Wilhelm chuckled. "I get that a lot." With his right hand glowed in dark color, he proceeded to grasp his hand into a fist and an explosion resounded in a corner of their eyes. ¡­ Being surrounded, Noah¡¯s sharp eyes scanned the battlefield. Around him, the armored members of Iron Might, each at least ten levels higher than him, fanned out, weapons gleaming under the filtered sunlight. Their grins carried the arrogance of experienced players facing an opponent they considered beneath them. "Level 30?" one of them scoffed, a swordsman gripping his longsword. "You should¡¯ve run while you had the chance." Noah twirled his halberd, the weight of the weapon familiar in his grasp. His stance was low yet seems to be steady like a mountain. "Don¡¯t cry if you lose out then," Noah spoke with a smile. ¡°Cut the crap, let¡¯s go!!¡± A rogue dashed in first, dual daggers flashing as he lunged for Noah¡¯s blind spot. Fast, but Noah was able to see it. With a sharp pivot, he sidestepped just as the daggers struck air, his halberd whipping around in a brutal counterstrike. Claankkk The rogue barely managed to block with crossed daggers, but the attack sent him staggering backward. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. ¡°Steel Thrust!¡± The second attacker came immediately, a spear user thrusting forward with a skill. Noah reacted instinctively. Instead of dodging, he parried as the halberd¡¯s shaft knocked the spear off course. ¡°Counterstance¡­¡± Noah muttered in a low voice. ¡­ Skill : CounterStance Assumes a defensive stance with the halberd, increasing the Halberdier''s resistance to incoming attacks and reflecting a portion of the damage back to attackers. Mana Cost: 25 Cooldown: 20 seconds Duration: 10 seconds ¡­ Using the opening, Noah kicked forward, his boot slamming into the spearman¡¯s chest. The player grunted as he stumbled back, balance momentarily lost. But Noah didn¡¯t stop. He twisted his grip and swung his halberd in a wide arc. The blade went out fastly like an eagle¡¯s claw. The rogue, still recovering from the earlier counter, was too slow to dodge. Krrrsshhh The halberd connected, carving through armor and flesh and made the victim fell down. "Don''t falter!" A shield-user, barked out. "Now we overwhelm him!" Three of them rushed Noah at once as swords and axes gleaming. ¡°Come!¡± Noah grinned. ¡°Piercing Dash¡­!¡± ¡­ Skill : Piercing Dash Charges forward with great speed, impaling the first enemy in the path and knocking them back. A chance for them to be vulnerable to physical attacks relative to stats. Mana Cost: 15 Cooldown: 10 seconds Duration: Instant ¡­ With lightning reflexes, he blurred out of their direct line of attack. The swordsman¡¯s blade sliced through empty space, and before he could correct his stance, Noah was already behind him. Slaammm Using the blunt end of his halberd, Noah struck the back of the swordsman¡¯s knee. The player buckled with a curse, just in time for Noah to flip his weapon around and drive the blade down. Krasssshh Another enemy down from the attack of Noah. The shield-user raised his shield, intending to force Noah into a defensive stance while the berserker charged, his massive axe coming down with enough force to break through defenses. ¡°Hmmm?¡± Noah didn¡¯t deflect or block. Instead, he did something they didn¡¯t expect. He stepped forward. Right into the berserker¡¯s attack range. The moment the axe began to fall, Noah dodged inward, sliding past the blade at the last possible second. The berserker¡¯s eyes widened in shock. With no space left to defend himself, the berserker was completely vulnerable. Thursss His halberd¡¯s tip pierced straight into the berserker¡¯s chest, leaving the latter to fall down like a dead log. The shield user gritted his teeth, raising his shield intending to smash the halberd user, but Noah was already closing the distance first. Kraaaangg A powerful swing of Noah¡¯s halberd smashed against the shield, sending the player stumbling. He tried to retaliate, but Noah weaved to the side, exploiting the opening. A swift upward slash. Srrriissss¡­ ¡°Ahhh,,,¡± ¡°****, what are you guys doing? Just get him and be done with it for **** sake¡­!¡± A shout came from the players of Iron Might. And with that, more people started to group up on Noah. Noah spun his halberd, his sharp eyes scanning his surroundings. Left, right, front, and back there was no escape. The Iron Might members encircled him like hungry wolves, their weapons gleaming in the dim forest light. A rogue lunged from the left, his daggers flashing toward Noah¡¯s ribs. At the same time, the spearman stabbed forward from the right, aiming for Noah¡¯s side. In front, the knight charged, his heavy sword coming down in a brutal overhead slash. And from behind Noah could hear the whistle of an incoming arrow, shot like a passing wind. Noah smirked. At the seemingly very last second, he moved. ¡°Guardian¡¯s Shield¡­¡± ¡­ Skill : Guardian''s Shield Raises the halberd in front to form a temporary energy shield, reducing incoming damage and granting brief invulnerability to status effects. Mana Cost: 30 Cooldown: 30 seconds Duration: 15 seconds ¡­ Noah lowered his stance and twisted his body just enough to slip through the gaps in their formation. The rogue¡¯s daggers sliced through empty air, the spear barely grazed Noah¡¯s shoulder, and the knight¡¯s heavy blade came down just a fraction too late, crashing into the ground with a thunderous impact. Before they could make another move, Noah struck. Srrraasshhhh¡­ His halberd swung out in a wide controlled arc, the impact blasting back the rogue and spearman as their bodies slamming into nearby trees. The knight charged again, his sword wreathed in resplendent glow, but Noah seemed to already read his movements. With perfect timing, Noah shifted his grip and thrust his halberd forward. Not at the knight himself, but at his sword. Kraanngg The impact sent a jarring shockwave up the knight¡¯s arms, his weapon ripped from his grasp and sent spinning into the air. Before he could react, Noah was already upon him. A swift sweep of the legs. Srrrsshh A brutal strike to the chest. Krsssstt Graakkk¡­ And that was enough for him to fall down, his health points dropping low from the fatal attacks. Chapter 39 : Retreat ¡°****.... I refuse to believe that we can¡¯t even beat down a noob like him¡­¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you shut up and just ****** focus?¡±!¡± ¡°...You little piece of¡­¡± Small numbers of them had been beat down and wounded, though no one had died yet. It was understandable as not only Noah was ganged up and left him small room to focus on one enemy, he was also lower levelled. Still, they couldn¡¯t help but feel frustrated at their situations. In this stage where even some slight difference in level could tip the favor, how could they not be? And with that, they became reckless and just went for the kill no matter the cost. As long as they could kill this halberd guy, they could then be at ease. Or at the very least, could comfort themselves that they at least was able to whack the hell out of him. Left. Right. Front. Behind. Iron Might¡¯s forces had Noah surrounded. No gaps, space, or way for him to maneuver. The only way was for him to break through the ranks and that was what Noah did. Kraaakss Srriingg Craaankk¡­ And from that, Noah was even able to deal a lot of damage toward the enemies around him. It was just that because of the numbers, it seemed that it would be a matter of time before Noah finally was going to taste some fatal damage on him. "Nowhere to run, buddy!" "Should¡¯ve picked your fights better¡­" "Let¡¯s finish this already¡­." Booomm¡­ A violent explosion tore through the ranks of the Iron Might¡¯s members. Flames and shockwaves erupted behind them, hurling armored figures into the air like ragdolls. The sheer force sent some crashing into boulders, while others collapsed to the ground, their HP bars became zero from the unexpected blast. The suffocating pressure around Aron vanished in an instant. The warriors who had been seconds away from striking him down were now dazed and disoriented, if not dead. ¡°You good there?¡± Wilhelm asked with a grin on his face. On his hand, there was a dark color glow enveloping it as his hand formed into a fist. As if he had just just crushed something in it just now. Noah let out a small laugh as he shook his head, ¡°Careful from your right side,¡± Kraannkk¡­ As the last word of Noah came, a sharp big sword came toward Wilhelm with great momentum. It would have probably hacked him to shambles if not for the barrier that appeared in time, protecting him from that. A shimmering barrier of pure energy materialized, shuddering a bit as it absorbed the devastating blow. The impact sent ripples of magical force across its surface, distorting the air around Wilhelm like heat waves. The attacker, Thornshard himself, gritted his teeth in frustration as his blade still pressed against the barrier, unable to break through. His expression twisted in shock as he realized his ambush had failed. Yet again. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. Wilhelm tilted his head slightly, his eyes flicking to the enemy at his side. ¡°Nice try.¡± With a flick of his fingers, the barrier pulsed. And in an instant, the force within it rebounded, sending the rogue flying backward with a strangled cry, his body tumbling across the ground. Wilhelm glanced back at Noah, a glint of amusement in his eyes. ¡°Appreciate the heads-up.¡± Noah simply shrugged, twirling his halberd. ¡°Doubt you even need that¡­¡± ¡­ The skirmish unfolded with a chaotic intensity. Grunts of effort punctuated the forest''s silence. The Iron Might fought with a ferocity that kept on building up, but Noah and Wilhelm were handling them likewise. Noah''s halberd whirled powerfully, delivering punishing strikes that kept his adversaries at bay. He executed sweeps and thrusts as he tried to keep a distance between them. His class, Halberdier, granted him agility and strength, and he wielded them skillfully. Wilhelm''s mastery of magic came into play as he cast spells that unleashed elemental fury upon their foes. Blasts exploded with fiery brilliance, searing the armor of Iron Might''s members, while dark looking shards pierced through their ranks, slowing their advance. Despite the chaos, Noah and Wilhelm fought as a well-coordinated team. Their coordination was in sync, their understanding of each other''s tactics seemed to be clear enough to see. It was this synergy that seemed to allow them to hold their ground against the encroaching Iron Might. WIlhelm was truly in wonder regarding Noah¡¯s high skill and understanding, and could only say that it was as expected from the boss of him himself. But the Iron Might were no pushovers either. Thornshard pressed the attack relentlessly. He swung his greatsword with immense power, each blow a deadly arc of destruction. Noah''s halberd and Wilhelm''s spells were barely enough to deflect his strikes in his eyes. As the battle raged on, the forest seemed to close in around them. Boulders became obstacles to maneuver around, and the underbrush concealed hidden hazards. Noah and Wilhelm used the terrain to their advantage, luring their foes into ambushes and unleashing destructive attacks. The clash continued for a while and neither side was willing to yield. But the Iron Might''s initial confidence slowly waned as they realized that Noah and Wilhelm were formidable opponents. Exhaustion began to set in, but the intention to protect the treasure chest was obvious to see within Noah and Wilhelm. They knew that the outcome of this battle would determine the fate of the treasure and, perhaps, their standing in the game. "Damn it, who the hell are these two? The fight is not even long enough, but we suffered much already... Let''s retreat!" In the midst of the battle, Thornshard shouted a retreat order. The forest, having witnessed their ferocity and tenacity, seemed to breathe a sigh of relief as the Iron Might begrudgingly disengaged. Noah and Wilhelm watched as the Iron Might retreated into the depths of the forest, their leader casting a final glare at the treasure chest they coveted. The battle had ended and the treasure chest remained the object of their desire. Who wouldn¡¯t though, if not for the lacking manpower that Thornshard had on his side, he would absolutely chose to go all the way. Especially when they had the numbers to overwhelm them. After all, it was not everyday that one could encounter a Rare Rare treasure chest. ¡­ With the immediate threat gone, Noah and Wilhelm turned their attention back to the chest. They had fought well to protect it, and now they would reap the rewards of their efforts. The treasure was theirs, like a reward to their resilience and patience in the face of sudden adversity. "Not bad, Bo-... Brother Demerit. I didn''t know that you were this capable already." Wilhelm commented as he eyed Noah with a smile. "It''s you who is amazing alright. Your damages are devastating enough for them to retreat fastly. Like Bro, don''t you think it''s too fast." Noah replied while shaking his head. Wilhelm could only shrug his shoulders. "This could be a lesson too, on why making a guild from scratch would be an arduous task. Cause if we are behind a prestigious name, we probably wouldn''t be attacked like just now. That, is my opinion naturally." Wilhelm explained slowly. Noah only nodded his head but didn''t reply to Wilhelm''s words as he seemed to have another opinion, but didn''t want to convey it. The two of them then focused back toward the treasure chest at hand that had been waiting for them to be inspected. ... --- Note : Author apologized for not releasing chapters in this few days, but now it''s going to go back on schedule. Where the comments and followers at? Come and show your your support to let Author knows it! Chapter 40 : Harvests Chapter 40 : Harvests From the depths of the treasure chest, Noah and Wilhelm unearthed a trove of items that glittered and gleamed in the dappled light. ... Pebble of Vigor - Rarity: Stone - Description: A rough-hewn stone infused with earth energy. This rough-hewn stone, imbued with the essence of earth, radiated a faint greenish glow. When used, it would restore a portion of the user''s health - Effects: Restores 20% of the user''s maximum health when consumed. ¡­ Ironhide Elixir - Rarity: Iron - Description: A vial filled with dark, viscous liquid. When consumed, the elixir would temporarily bolster the user''s defenses, rendering them more resistant to physical attacks. - Effects: Temporarily increases the user''s physical defense by 13% for 10 minutes when consumed. ¡­ Bronze Scroll of Lightning - Rarity: Bronze - Description: A scroll etched with symbols that shimmered with electrical energy. When invoked, the user could summon bolts of lightning. - Effects: Allows the user to summon bolts of lightning to strike foes, dealing 500 damage per strike. Requires skilled control¡­ ¡­ Aegis Medallion - Rarity: Rare - Description: A beautifully crafted medallion with protective properties. When worn, it provided a moderate boost to the user''s overall defenses. It was said to be made by a powerful old entity. - Effects: Increases the user''s overall defenses by 15% when worn. ¡­ Silverleaf Thistle Herb - Rarity: Silver - Description: Delicate silver-tinged leaves from the Silverleaf plant. When brewed into a tea or applied as a poultice, it had the remarkable ability to hasten the healing process. - Effects: Brew into a healing tea or apply as a poultice to double the natural healing rate for 1 hour. ... As they carefully stowed the items, the forest around them seemed to hum with approval. These treasures, each with its own unique attributes, could significantly impact the user''s abilities and survivability in the New World, especially with Noah¡¯s current progress. They could naturally bolster Noah and Wilhelm''s capabilities, aid them in future battles, or be traded for valuable resources within the game. Especially for the Silverleaf Herb and Aegis Medallion which were particularly the most valuable out of them, with the latter beat the former significantly. Silverleaf Thistle Herb was known for its potent healing properties. When brewed into a tea or applied as a poultice, it could double the natural healing rate for a full hour. In the heat of battle or after surviving a brutal boss fight, this effect was a lifesaver. It meant adventurers could recover swiftly, ready to face the phasing fight with minimal downtime. The herb was particularly sought after by tank-class players who had the unenviable task of drawing the aggression of powerful boss monsters. These tanks often endured massive amounts of damage while protecting their teammates. With Silverleaf, their recovery rate doubled, allowing them to absorb even more punishment and keep the boss''s attention while healers worked to keep them alive. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon. Its value extended beyond personal use, naturally. The scarcity of Silverleaf herbs meant that they could be traded or sold at pretty high prices in the in-game marketplace. High-level guilds and raid parties were willing to pay handsomely for a good supply of Silverleaf to ensure their success in such encounters. Meanwhile, the Aegis Medallion had a remarkable ability to bolster the user''s defenses. When worn, it increased overall defenses by a substantial 15%. This effect had a profound impact on an adventurer''s survivability, making it a prized possession for both PvP combat and PvE fields. The Aegis Medallion was not limited to a specific role or class either. It could be worn by tanks, healers, damage dealers, and support characters alike. This versatility made it a sought-after item for all types of adventurers, especially for being an equip type compared to consuming type. And being able to provide for overall defense instead of just physical defense, magical defense, or other types of damage would make it far more valuable too. Truly, items classified as Rare, one of the hidden rarities known in the New World, were indeed scarce and valuable commodities in the New World. ¡­ As Noah and Wilhelm gathered around the collection of items they had acquired from the treasure chest, excitement washed over them. Some of the items truly gave them surprises. The Aegis Medallion, radiating an ethereal blue glow, lay at the center of their attention. Its presence alone was awe-inspiring. Wilhelm carefully examined the medallion. "Remarkable find," Wilhelm commented, his eyes still fixed on the Aegis Medallion. Noah nodded in agreement, "Absolutely." The two of them discussed for a little bit and then decided that it was best for Noah to take the Aegis Medallion. After all, he was a close ranged focused combatant, which meant that he would have more risk of getting hit. With the Aegis Medallion safely tucked away, they turned their attention to the other items scattered before them. The Silverleaf Thistle, a bundle of silvery leaves, exuded a faint, soothing aroma. Its significance was not lost on the duo. Noah carefully placed it in a pouch, knowing that it could be a lifeline in dire situations. Beside the aforementioned items, there were also some interesting items too. There was Cubestone Bracer, a piece of Bronze ranked jewelry that shimmered with a polished elegance. It bore enchantments that boosted elemental resistances, making it a valuable asset for characters who faced elemental threats. Wilhelm decided to equip it temporarily. As they sorted through the items, Noah and Wilhelm also discovered several valuable gems, including a handful of Moonfire Opals and Sunstone Sapphires. These precious stones were often used to enhance equipment. They agreed to hold onto them each, considering future enhancements for their gear. The Ironbound Scroll, a seemingly unassuming piece of parchment, was also among the treasures. Wilhelm unrolled it, revealing hidden runes and symbols etched in silver ink. It was a valuable crafting recipe for enchanting equipment with additional elemental damage. Wilhelm, who had some experience in crafting, decided to keep it for future use or such. The Iron Reliquary, while not as rare as the Aegis Medallion, was still a valuable find. It contained a selection of rare crafting materials that could be used to forge powerful weapons and armor. Wilhelm suggested they store these materials for a future project or sell them at a premium to finance their goals, and Noah complied with it easily. Finally, the duo came across the Scroll of Augmentation, an item with the power to enhance the attributes of equipment. It was used to improve their gear significantly, albeit only one time consumption. They decided to hold onto it until they acquired equipment worthy of augmentation. "Alright... I think it''s done for now. I''m amazed, not gonna lie. As expected from a jackpot. This kind of occurrence was rare enough. First day of playing the game with you, and we got a good head start. What luck!" Wilhelm let out a whistle with a shake of his head. "Yea, what luck..." Noah subconsciously shuddered. Wilhelm looked at the direction of a city as he rubbed his chin, "I can already sense your kind of gameplay. And you can also see my method. You did a very much great job. We didn''t even need to communicate much, and honestly, it seems you didn''t even need my instructions few moments ago, as if you understood the assignment naturally. As expected of you, aye¡­" Noah shrugged his arms with a small smile, "We did well, I agree." The forest seemed to become more vibrant and lively for some reason. And that either might be because they had repelled a strong group of players, or because they had gotten some good items for themselves. Their eyes seemed to be shining brightly too. "Okay, now let''s discuss about the guild again. Do you have any recommendations for the guild that we should enter? You are level 103, after all." Noah asked with a contemplative gesture. As a supposedly old player, he naturally knew the big dogs and such. For Wilhelm, he should also know more about the current strong guilds in the game. "About that..." Wilhelm took a moment before he continued to explain the best course of action that they should take according to his opinion and estimation. "I know someone from a guild called Starfall. Do you know that guild?" Wilhelm asked.