《New world》 Chapter 1: Another World One day, my life changed forever. I was walking home after my university classes when I noticed something unusual on the ground. It was a stone, but not an ordinary one. It seemed to emit a faint glow, and its surface was so smooth that it reflected my face like a mirror. Something was drawing me toward it. I bent down, reached out my hand And everything went dark. A deep void swallowed me, making me feel as if I were suspended in nothingness. No sound, no ground beneath my feet. Just absolute darkness. Help me a voice suddenly echoed. I didn''t even have time to respond before another cold, emotionless voice spoke: You have reached Level 1. Light returned. I found myself standing in the middle of a dense forest. The trees here were enormous, their tops lost somewhere high in the sky. Sunlight pierced through the leaves, creating golden patches on the ground, but something was off. Silence. Absolute, unnatural silence. No birds singing, no rustling leaves, no chirping insects. I swallowed nervously and, to make sure this wasn''t an illusion, slapped myself on the cheek. The pain was real. The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation. What the Where am I? I muttered, trying to grasp the situation. Remembering the voice, I instinctively shouted: Show status! A translucent panel appeared before my eyes: What?! Everything is at one?! I''m weaker than a child! I almost cursed out loud. My gaze fell on the "Skills" section. There was only one entry: Clicking on it, I read the description: "You have been teleported to another world." That''s it? No active or passive abilities? What kind of useless skill is this Don''t worry, you''re not alone. I flinched. Floating in front of me was a small, glowing white sphere. Its surface softly shimmered, covered in strange, shifting symbols. Was that you speaking? I asked. Yes, it was me, it responded in a calm voice. Who are you? I don''t know I was just in the darkness until you touched me. But now Im here and it seems my energy brought us somewhere. My stats are all at zero as well, but theres something odd Instead of numbers, I only see question marks. Hmm But your name "Soul of the Universe"? I thought aloud. Sounds like you''re really important. Maybe But what matters now is finding other people. Alright, then I accept your help. If were in this together, we need to stick together. Suddenly, a new message appeared before me: New Skill Acquired: "Synchronization with the Soul of the Universe." Unique Skill Acquired: "?????" I froze. What? Why is the skill unknown? But before I could even process this, an unsettling feeling washed over me. Wait I tensed up. Why is it so quiet here? Where are all the birds? The Soul of the Universe remained silent. Then Rustling. I shuddered. Oh no I jinxed it I whispered, turning toward the source of the sound. I hear it too the Soul of the Universe murmured. Something was in this forest. Chapter 2 "The Duel and the History of the World" I stood in a large arena, gripping a wooden sword tightly. Across from me stood the village eldera stocky, muscular man who clearly had a lot of combat experience. Before the fight, I asked the Soul to merge with me again. That would give me 115 seconds to not only hold my ground but also possibly copy one of his skills. I knew I had little chance of winning, but if I could at least see and feel his techniques, maybe I could learn something valuable. "I have to get stronger. If I want to survive and find a way home, I need power. I cant stay weak." Boy, what are you thinking about? the elder asked, stretching his wrists. Im ready. Then lets begin! I immediately used [Force Push], but the elder easily dodged it. Is that all youve got? he laughed. You cant even hold a sword properly. I tried a few attacks, but he effortlessly blocked them, barely putting in any effort. Youre worse than a beginner How did you even survive in that forest? Honestly, I was shocked too when I found out there were S-rank monsters like dryads in there Ahaha, I see. So youre just lucky. But since you accepted this challenge, Ill show you what a real fight looks like. The elder changed his stance. Get ready! "Instant Step!" His figure vanished. I didnt even have time to react before I felt the cold touch of a wooden sword against my throat. "What when did he move?!" Before I lost consciousness, a mysterious voice echoed in my mind:
You have acquired a passive skill: [Manas Blessing (Lv.1)] C When reaching 0 mana, your maximum mana increases by 5 after a full recovery. The next morning, I woke up back in the elders house. A pair of kids sat beside me, and as soon as I moved, they rushed to call their father. The elder walked into the room, arms crossed over his chest. Whats wrong with you? Why do you keep passing out? I honestly explained my problemwhenever the Soul is active, my mana drains every second. The elder burst out laughing. Ahahaha! You thought you could copy my technique? So, how did it go? Did it work? I checked my status.
"Speed 2? Why?" Interesting I got a passive skill, and now my mana increases whenever it reaches zero. But why did my speed go up? If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it. I checked the Souls statusits stats had changed too:
"So it really copies all my abilities But why is its mana so high?" The Soul spoke: When you grow stronger, I grow stronger. That means I can level up alongside you. But this is dangerous This time, I was unconscious for even longer than before "Wait. The Soul now has mana regeneration? 0.1 per hour? What about me?" I checked againI had the same regeneration rate. "What?! 0.6 mana per 6 hours?! Thats way too slow!" I came to a realization: "Stats update when I discover something new about myself. That means I need to keep learning more." I decided to ask the elder: Is there a library in the village? Or any books about combat techniques? No, boy. Books are rare. But the city, about 10 km from here, definitely has them. If you want to learn more, youll need to earn some money and get stronger. "Then Ill train!" I woke up with a single thoughtbecoming stronger. Yesterday, I learned that this world has a history. A Hero-King once existed and changed everything. But none of that mattered if I stayed weak. We need to train, I muttered, sitting up. And what do you suggest? the Soul asked, floating beside me. I glanced at itthis small, glowing sphere had been following me since I arrived in this world. It was part of me, and its words often felt like my own thoughts. First, I need to reach Level 2 and see what happens. Levels, levels What if nothing happens? the Soul sighed. Then well find another way to get stronger. I stood up, opened the door, and stepped forward into a new day.
When I walked out of my room, a young boy who had been waiting in the hallway suddenly flung open the door to the next room. He stared at me in surprise before grinning. Breakfast is ready! he cheered and ran toward the dining area. I froze for a moment. It was such a simple thing, but for some reason, it felt warm. "How long has it been since someone greeted me like that in the morning?" Following the boy, I sat at the table and began eating. The food was simple but filling. But even during breakfast, I couldnt stop thinking about this world. "I know too little about it." I looked up at the elder, who was sitting across from me, stirring his drink thoughtfully. Tell me about this world, I asked. The elder lifted his gaze, considering my request. Thats a long story, boy, he said. Im not in a hurry, I replied, continuing to eat. The old man nodded, set his cup aside, and began to speak.
The Rise of the Hero-King We live in the Second Era, in the Kingdom of [Human Kingdom], located on the edge of the continent, the elder began. Right now, four kingdoms exist, constantly warring against each other. But it wasnt always this way I leaned forward in interest. Long ago, during the First Era, there was only one great kingdom. It was founded by the Hero-King, who appeared out of nowhere in the year 0, when this world was in chaos. Before him, there were no calendars, no structured governments, no unity. He brought the first system of timedays, weeks, months, and years. At that time, the continent was divided into countless small settlements, clans, and races. Wars and starvation ruled over all. But the greatest threat came from the demonsinvaders from beyond the continent who conquered nearly everything. At their head stood the Demon King, alongside the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. They burned cities, killed rulers, and enslaved or sacrificed people to their dark gods. It was when the world was on the verge of collapse that the Hero-King appeared. No one knew where he came from. He wasnt of royal blood, and he had no army. But he had unimaginable strength and charisma. His sword was so powerful that it could cut through even the toughest armor in a single strike. But his name was lost. He began gathering forces, uniting races that had once been enemies. Humans, elves, dwarves, even monstersall stood under his banner. His crown bore the symbols of all races, representing their unity.
The Hero-King had fought against the Demon King and won. But after the final battle He disappeared. No one ever found his body, his sword, or his crown. With his disappearance, the kingdom collapsed into war and division. But some still believed he would return someday.
As I listened to the elders words, my fists clenched. "The Hero-King He disappeared, and people think he was a messenger of the universe. But what if he was like me?" A stranger from another world. "If this world really brings outsiders to save it then I dont want to just survive. I dont want to be weak. I must become strong." The Soul hovered quietly beside me, as if sensing my determination. Were going to the forest, I said. And so, my true journey began. Chapter 3 “The Pact with the Dryad” As soon as we stepped into the forest, she appeared. A tall, slender figure, with long green hair that almost blended with the leaves. Her light brown skin resembled the bark of an ancient tree, and her emerald-green eyes shimmered with a mysterious glow. A faint scent of flowers and herbs lingered in the air around her. A dryad. I felt cold sweat run down my back. Oh, hell no My eyes instinctively darted toward her status.
[Dryad, Guardian of the Forest] Threat Level: S Yep. Im dead. I sighed, glanced at the Soul of the Universe, and mentally prepared to say my final goodbyes. Well, my friend, it was a short but interesting life. Im glad I met you Are you already giving up? the Soul asked calmly. What else am I supposed to do?! Were standing in front of the ruler of this forest! An S-rank monster, no less! I tried to stay calm, but failed miserably. The dryad studied me carefully before crossing her arms and speaking. Who are you? A human? And what is that sphere floating beside you? She narrowed her eyes. It carries a very strange energy. Okay. At least shes not attacking me immediately. Thats a plus. If youre an enemy of the forest, or if youve come to destroy it, I will fight until my last breath. Her voice turned sharp and dangerous. But if your intentions are peaceful I will listen. I quickly considered my options. So she can sense the Souls aura? Maybe strong monsters dont just see levelsthey can also sense potential I raised my hands in a non-threatening gesture. Were not your enemies. Then why are you here? Uh were just hunting slimes. The dryad blinked. Slimes? Yeah. Her expression became even more confused. Youre serious? She tilted her head. The weakest monsters? The ones that even children can defeat? Why do you need them? Damn. If she realizes Im weak, she might change her mind about letting me go I smirked and turned to the Soul. It doesnt really matter, right? The Soul caught on quickly. Yes, we have our reasons. The Soul of the Universe? The dryads voice trembled slightly. Her expression shiftedfrom cautious to completely shocked. Oh? It seems that name means something to her The dryad stared directly at the Soul, her lips pressing into a thin line. She seemed to be thinking deeply, trying to decide something. After a few tense moments, she sighed. Fine. Ill take you to the slimes. There are 2,049 of them. Holy crap, she counted them exactly?! But leave at least one alive. Her tone turned serious. They clean the forest of bacteria. Got it. I nodded. We dont want to harm the ecosystem. The dryad clapped her hands, and a tiny glowing creature appeared. This is a fairy. She will be your guide. Oh wow, shes adorable! The fairy fluttered around, looking like a tiny firefly, her silver wings shimmering with a faint glow. Hello, little fairy! Whats your name? She turned toward me and spoke in a high-pitched, cheerful voice. Hinata! Nice to meet you, Hinata! I smiled. The dryad gave me one last long look. She will show you the way. But rememberif you threaten this forest I know, I know, I cut her off, raising my hands again. The dryad stared at me for a moment longer, then turned to the Soul. She still wasnt sure about us. But she said nothing more. Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel. The fairy flitted closer. Do you want to go straight to the slime nest? I quickly shook my head. No, no, no! One at a time, please! Alright! She giggled and twirled in the air. Lets go! I grinned. My path to strength starts here. I tightened my grip on my sword and followed the fairy. Before fighting, I checked my stats.
Abe Hikaris Status ? Level: 1 ? Title: Traveler ? EXP: 3/100 ? Attack: 1 ? Defense: 0 ? Speed: 1 ? HP: 10 ? Mana: 20 ? Mana Regeneration: 0.1 per hour ? Skills:
I activated [Soul Synchronization], and my stats changed.
Synchronized Status: ? Attack: 2 ? Defense: 0 ? Speed: 2 ? HP: 10 ? Mana: 150 ? Mana Regeneration: 0.2 per hour ? Additional Skills:
The fairy glanced at me curiously. What are you mumbling about? Stats? Synchronization? I just grinned mysteriously. But from the corner of my eye, I noticed the dryad watching me closely. She frowned slightly, sensing my aura shift. Looks like shes reconsidering her decision not to fight me but at the same time, she doesnt seem to think I got that much stronger. Ill continue observing you, she muttered under her breath. Meanwhile, I spotted a slime crawling nearby. Alright. Time to test my strength! I quickly checked my equipment stats.
I drew my sword and shield, stepped forward, and attacked the slime. The slime used [Force Push], but I blocked it with my shield, absorbing the impact. Then, I slashed twiceand the monster exploded into pieces.
EXP Gained: 3 (6/100) New Passive Skills Acquired: ? [Shield Mastery Lv1] ? [Sword Mastery Lv1] I deactivated synchronization and noticed that even in my base form, the new skills remained. But what was even more interesting Soul! You also got sword and shield mastery! How does this work? Maybe when I synchronize, new skills transfer to both of us? Or is it related to the Soul copying [Force Push] earlier? I clenched my fist in excitement. IM OP NOW! The Soul laughed. At least you finally believe in yourself. Yeah, but Im still weak for now. I decided to continue hunting. Throughout the day, I drank water, ate edible mushrooms (thanks to the fairys guidance), and defeated 19 more slimes.
Current EXP: 60/100 Collected Items: 19 Slime Cores (Useful for purification) I was getting closer to leveling up. Just a little more and Ill reach Level 2! My true journey was only beginning. Abe Hikari woke up to the pleasant warmth of sunlight filtering through the window. He stretched, yawned, and exhaled in satisfaction. Today is the perfect day to level up! he declared to himself and immediately opened his status menu.
Status Abe Hikari C Level 1 ? Title: Traveler ? EXP: 99/100 ? Attack: 2 ? HP: 10 ? Speed: 1 ? Defense: 1 ? Mana: 20 ? Luck: 1 ? Mana Regeneration: 0.1 Skills: Unique Skills: Passive Skills:
Abe blinked in surprise at the last passive skill. What?! Alcohol immunity?! He quickly opened the description. "Can consume up to 100ml of alcohol without experiencing intoxication" Hah! Nice! I could use this in real life! I drink three glasses, and Im already in another dimension! However, what intrigued him the most was the name change of his unique skill. Blessing of the Universe? When did that happen? He thought back to the previous night and remembered something. Wait the village elder called me ''blessed.'' Abe grinned. So, my stats change based on how people perceive me? That was an interesting discovery. He scrolled down and noticed a new title: Hero (Lv1). Curious, he tapped on it.
Hero (Lv1) C Increases all stats by 1. His eyes widened. WHAT?! I GET STRONGER JUST FOR HAVING THIS TITLE?! Abe jumped up in excitement. YES! IM GETTING STRONGER! Downstairs, some villagers heard his shouting and laughed. Look at this guy! Hes yelling again first thing in the morning! Abe ignored them. He had a mission todayeat, go to the forest, and level up!
A Strange Encounter As Abe stepped outside, he noticed that the entire village was in high spirits. People smiled at him, thanked him for his deal with the dryad, and then A girl unexpectedly approached him. She was the most beautiful girl in the villagelong chestnut hair, warm brown eyes, and a gentle smile. Hikari, can I go with you to the forest? Abe froze. W-what?! You want to come with me? I want to help you and just spend some time together. She smiled softly. Abe felt his face heat up. A-A-Ah Y-y-yes! Of course! The villagers around them chuckled. You two make a cute couple! Abe turned bright red. A-a couple?! The girl blushed as well but quickly changed the subject. I made food for us. She handed him a basket. Abes eyes widened. Wait for me?! No way! No ones ever cooked for me before! His eyes teared up slightly. Are you crying? she asked, surprised. No! Its just allergies! She laughed, and Abe thought to himself: In my previous world, a girl this pretty would never even look at me
A New Request from the Dryad As they entered the forest, the dryad appeared before them. The girl gasped in fear. T-Thats a dryad! Abe smirked confidently. Relax! Shes on our side. The dryad looked at him and nodded. I need your help. Abes smile faded. Im listening. Can humans build a bridge over the river? Abe blinked. A bridge? You mean a wooden structure to cross water? Yes. The animals cant cross the river, and it disrupts the ecosystem. Abe rubbed his chin. Hmm Ill talk to the village elder. But well need a lot of wood. The dryad nodded. I will provide old trees that have already lived their cycle. Abe grinned. Deal! Ill take care of it! The girl beside him watched their conversation in awe. You speak with her so naturally Abe puffed out his chest. With me, youre safe! She blushed slightly.
Level Up! Abe returned to the village and explained the situation to the elder. The old man stroked his beard. A bridge? Interesting He nodded. Tomorrow, Ill gather some men and take care of it. Abe gave a thumbs-up and returned to the forest. Alright! Time to level up! He drew his sword and killed a slime.
Ding! Congratulations! Your level has increased!
Abe jumped in excitement. LEVEL 2! THIS IS A PERFECT DAY! The girl beside him smiled. Youre so weird but its kind of cute. Abe blushed again. A-Ah T-thanks! And so, a new chapter of Abe Hikaris adventure began. Chapter 4: The Flames of Hatred Hikari C Level 2 ? Title: Traveler (Lv1), Hero (Lv1) (grants +1 to all stats) ? EXP: 2/300 Stats: ? Attack: 6 ? HP: 12 ? Speed: 3 ? Defense: 3 ? Mana: 23 ? Luck: 3 ? Mana Regeneration: 1.2 (per ??? C unclear unit of time) Skills: ? [Force Push (Lv1)] C Cost: 10 Mana ? [Analysis (Lv1)] Unique Skills: ? [Soul Synchronization (Lv1)] C Merges Hikaris and the Souls stats. Cost: 1 Mana/sec. ? [Blessing of the Universe] C ??? (Hidden description) (Allows choosing a skill upon teleportation C the first choice was "Analysis") Passive Skills: ? [Manas Blessing (Lv1)] C Upon reaching 0 Mana, the max limit increases by 5 upon full recovery. ? [Shield Mastery (Lv2)] C Passively increases defense by 2. ? [Sword Mastery (Lv2)] C Passively increases attack by 2. ? [Alcohol Immunity (Lv1)] C Can consume 100ml of alcohol without intoxication.
Hikari stared at his status screen in frustration. Tch What the hell? I thought Id get stronger after leveling up! But Im still so weak! His fists clenched in frustration. Was this all he could do? But then, from the side, the girl who had accompanied him to the forest was watching him silently. She saw his determination, his frustration, and his will to grow stronger. Maybe you will become a great hero someday, she whispered, trying to encourage him. Hikari took a deep breath, trying to shake off his frustration. I need to clear my mind. Hikari approached the Dryad to check on her progress. How are things going? he asked. The Dryad smiled softly. Thanks to you, the forest is safe. I am grateful. At that moment, the village elder approached. I, too, am grateful, Hikari. You have done a great service to our people. The elder explained that a merchant was arriving soon, bringing supplies for the bridge construction. If you need anything, let us know. Well cover the cost. Hikari blinked in surprise. Really? Then I need some equipment. The elder nodded. It wont be high quality, but its the least we can do to repay you. As they returned to the village, Hikari spotted the merchant arriving. The merchant looked around the village, his eyes widening in shock. Your village its changed so much. It feels more alive. Of course! Were friends with the Dryad now, Hikari said casually. The merchant froze. What?! Youre allied with monsters?! His face twisted in fear and disgust. I cant do business with traitors! Im leaving! Hikari watched in confusion as the merchant turned away. What just happened? The village elder sighed heavily. The Human Kingdom is at war with monsters. Ah Right, you mentioned that before. Hikari frowned, recalling the ancient war between humans and other races. Seeing the disappointment on Hikaris face, the elder grinned mischievously. Forget about that merchant. Instead, why not take some time off? I see you and Hinata have gotten close. W-What?! Why dont you go spend the day with her? I-Its not like that! Hikari panicked and accidentally blurted out his thoughts aloud. I-I mean, look at her! Shes so beautiful, I dont stand a chance! The elder burst out laughing, and Hinatas face turned red. She looked away shyly. The elder whispered into Hikaris ear. Dont let this chance slip away, kid. Taking the elders advice, Hikari spent the entire day with Hinata. As the sun began to set, she led him to a scenic hilltop. The sky burned with hues of orange and pink, creating a breathtaking sight. Ive never kissed anyone before, Hinata admitted softly. Hikaris face turned crimson. M-Me neither! he yelled instinctively. Hinata giggled at his reaction. Then, without warning She leaned in and kissed him. For a moment, time stood still. When she pulled away, her cheeks were flushed, but her eyes sparkled with warmth. I love you, Hikari. Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings. Hikari felt his heart race. Without hesitation, he smiled and answered. I love you too. As they walked back to the village hand in hand, villagers noticed and cheered for them. Hikari had never felt happier. The next morning, Hikari woke up still smiling. He decided to pick some flowers for Hinata. Approaching the Dryad, he asked: Can you help me find the best flowers? She smirked. Of course. She gifted him a bouquet of rare, beautiful flowers with a sweet aroma. These flowers will last a long time if properly cared for. Returning to the village, Hikari presented the bouquet to Hinata. Her face lit up with pure joy. Theyre beautiful! Her happiness was so radiant, it was like watching the sun shine. Overwhelmed with joy, she kissed him again and again. I will cherish these flowers forever, she whispered. Hikari, lets meet tomorrow. Huh? I have a gift for you. Ill take you somewhere special. Oh? Sounds interesting. Hinata leaned in and whispered into his ear. I promise youll love it. Her sultry tone sent shivers down his spine. Hikari gulped. O-Okay As night fell, he couldn''t sleep. What kind of gift? What kind of place? And just the two of us? His thoughts spiraled into questionable directions. Wait Is she planning to? His face turned bright red. Hikari, are you okay? You feel hot, the Soul asked. Hikari flinched. W-Who?! Oh, right, its just you. I forgot about you. Yeah, I noticed. Thats why I stayed quiet. I wanted you to enjoy your happiness. The Soul chuckled softly. Hikari smiled. Thanks. He closed his eyes, eager for the next day. But then A scream tore through the night. The smell of smoke filled the air. Hikaris eyes shot open. A fire?! He rushed outsideand froze in horror. The village was burning. Armored men in pitch-black armor were slaughtering villagers. Hikaris breath caught in his throat. He could only whisper one name Hinata Hikaru woke up to screams echoing outside. The smell of smoke filled the air. His heart pounded. Whats going on?! Throwing on his clothes, he rushed outsideonly to freeze in horror. The village was burning. Flames devoured the wooden houses, thick black smoke rising into the night sky. Villagers ran in terror, their cries mixing with the sound of clashing steel. Men in jet-black armor rode on horseback, their faces hidden beneath dark visors. They cut down anyone in their way. Hikarus breath caught in his throat. No this cant be happening! He clenched his fists. Soul Synchronization! A surge of power coursed through his veins as his stats merged with the Soul of the Universe. His vision sharpened, his muscles tensed. Then A familiar voice rang out through the chaos. HIKARU, RUN!!! His head snapped in the direction of the voice. HINATA. She stood at a distance, her eyes wide with fear. A black knight on horseback charged toward her, his sword raised. NO! Hikaru screamed, running toward her with everything he had. But he was too late. The knights blade sliced through the airthen through her. Hinatas body collapsed onto the ground. Her lips trembled as she whispered her final words: I love you Hikaru froze. His entire world shattered in an instant. Something inside him snapped. A single emotion filled his soul RAGE. His hands trembled. His breathing became ragged. His vision blurred with pure, unfiltered hatred. He gritted his teeth, voice shaking as he glared at the black knights. ILL KILL YOU. The knights turned toward him, their swords gleaming under the fire-lit sky. One of themthe talleststepped forward. His black armor was heavier than the rest, his presence suffocating. His voice echoed through the flames. So, youre still alive. Hikarus eyes burned with fury as he locked onto the man. Who are you?! The knight placed his massive sword against his shoulder. I am Lancelot. The 5th Knight of the Round Table. Hikarus breath hitched. The Round Table?! Lancelot continued, his voice dripping with disdain. Our mission was to eliminate this village, tainted by monsters. You were under the spell of that Dryad, werent you? She brainwashed you, just like the rest of them. Hikarus blood boiled. Brainwashed?! YOU SLAUGHTERED INNOCENT PEOPLE! The knight scoffed. Innocent? No, they were her pawns. If they were not, they would have resisted her control. We tried to free them but it seems the only option left was to purge them. Hikarus knuckles turned white as he gripped his sword. I swear I will make you suffer. Lancelot chuckled. Foolish child. You dare to challenge a knight of the Round Table? Youre nothing but an insect. Behind him, two more knights stepped forward. Lancelot, lets deal with this quickly. Even if shes an S-rank, we shouldnt take the Dryad lightly. At that moment The ground rumbled. A powerful aura erupted from the earth. Vines and roots burst from the ground, wrapping around the burning houses, extinguishing some of the flames. A figure rose from the earth itself. The Dryad. Her green eyes burned with fury as she took in the sight of the ruined village. Her voice trembled with contained wrath. You humans have you learned nothing? The knights immediately drew their swords. There she is. Eliminate her. Hikaru stood frozen, his rage clashing with confusion. The Dryad turned her gaze to him. She could see itthe pure, seething hatred in his eyes. For a moment, she hesitated. Then she spoke softly. Hikaru, do not become like them. Her words struck him like a blade. You see the cruelty of men, but you have also seen their kindness. You have a choice. You can let this rage consume you and become a bringer of death or you can be something more. Hikaru gritted his teeth. They took everything from me. Yes. But do not let them take you from yourself. Her gaze turned back to the knights. These men are not human. They are soldiers of war. You must understand that. Hikarus mind raced. Kill them. Kill them all. That was all he could think about. But He remembered Hinatas smile. Her warmth. Her love. His grip on his sword tightened. I will kill these men. But I will not become a monster. The Dryads eyes softened. Then you are wiser than I expected. At that moment Lancelot lunged at her. His massive sword pierced through her chest. Hikarus eyes widened in horror. NO! Lancelot grinned. Thats one monster down. Now, onto the next. But then The Dryad smiled. Her lips barely moved as she whispered something. The ground beneath Hikaru collapsed. Before he could react, vines wrapped around his body, pulling him into the depths of the earth. The last thing he saw was Lancelots cold, merciless gaze. And the Dryads voice Live. Find your strength. Change this world. Then Darkness. Hikaru opened his eyes. He was alive. The underground chamber was lit with faint glowing runes. As he looked around, his eyes landed on a message etched into the bark of an ancient tree. It was written in an old, forgotten language. But He could read it. His eyes widened in shock. This is English?! The message read: "This boy is my dear friend. Humans have taken everything from him. They have taken me. They will destroy my forest. Save him, my old friend. Perhaps he will save us all. He reminds me of the Great King of old. He has a chance to change this world." Hikarus fists clenched. The Great King? Could he have been from my world? He shook his head. That didnt matter now. There was only one thing on his mind. Revenge. He took a deep breath, his voice trembling with cold determination. Lancelot I swear on my very soul I will kill you. The ground rumbled. Something massive approached. The sound of heavy footsteps echoed through the cavern. A powerful presence filled the space. Then, a deep voice boomed So, this is the boy Dryad entrusted to me. A towering figure emerged from the shadows. A massive being, twice the size of a normal human. His stone-like skin glowed faintly in the dim light. The air around him was thick with ancient power. Welcome to my domain, child. I am Gurr, King of the Mountains. Hikaru gritted his teeth, his heart still heavy with grief and rage. But this was no time to fall apart. He had just entered a new battlefield. And he would do whatever it takes to become stronger.