ã€ŠAge of the Behemothsã€‹


 Chapter 1 (Part 1): Beta Testing

    Noah gasped for breath on the unforgiving terrain, feeling the immense shadow of the behemoth looming over him. He was alarmingly aware of the beast¡¯s furnace-like breath gusting over him.

    As he stared up at the monstrous entity, its colossal foot poised to deliver the crushing blow, he felt an all-too-familiar feeling gnawing at him. I¡¯m lagging... always one step behind the others... his thoughts jeered, a cruel reminder of his struggles in-game.

    In the world outside, he was nobody¡ªa shadow lost among countless others. But here, in this realm where code gave life to ambition, he was a hunter, and a hunter he would be.

    The game before him was not merely a game; it was an opportunity. Legends within this digital domain earned not just accolades but riches, cryptocurrency that bore the power to transcend the virtual and change reality itself. And it was the riches he sought, the tangible evidence that he was more than a forgotten whisper in the world. He yearned to become a legend, to earn enough to transform his real-world life.

    I will be a legend. He promised himself.

    Noah rolled, narrowly avoiding the Urhzig¡¯s huge hooves. The ground trembled, and dust and debris flew, forming a brief, hazy veil. The taste of dirt filled his mouth as he coughed, blocking the loud crashes of falling rocks.

    In the captivating game world, reality and fantasy merged due to the stunning graphics, immersive sounds, and the advanced full-body haptic suit that made the experience feel alive.

    ¡°Roh, watch out!¡± a woman yelled. A strong vibration hit his legs in the real world, matching the Urhzig¡¯s tail attack in-game. Noah flinched at the bearable pain¡ªit was an illusion created by the game¡¯s hardware, but it felt incredibly real.

    Earlier versions of the kit used electrode headsets for pain simulation, but they were costly and cumbersome. Now, Roh¡¯s experimental kit relied on smart dust, a neural nanotechnology, for a brain-computer interface that safely and legally imitated pain sensations, under the company¡¯s advertised claims.

    Noah glanced at the health indicator above his in-game character, Rohgar. His hit points had dropped to only fifty percent, while his stamina wavered at ten percent.

    Exhausted and knocked down twice, he knew another hit would mean defeat. He desperately looked for a way to change the situation. As much as he enjoyed taunting and tanking with his Barbarian build, aggroing the Urhzig to protect and take the heat off his squishy allies, Arkie and Florrie, he had to prioritize his own defense.

    The massive creature lifted its tail, but he dodged, rolling to safety. He stood up, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath.

    ¡°That was close!¡± Florrie, a teammate, called from a distance. Kneeling, she aimed her crossbow at the beast¡¯s soft underbelly. Taking a deep breath, she concentrated, knowing she couldn¡¯t afford to miss. Florrie shot a [Tranq Bolt].

    Tranq Bolt

    Tranquilizer ammo that sedates the target for 90 seconds.

    Caution: There is a 20% chance of triggering a hallucinogenic side effect whereby the target enters an enraged, trance-like state known as Bestial Rage, increasing attack damage by a hundred percent.

    The Tranq bolt darted towards its target at a surprising speed that left the beast with no time to react. It hit true, piercing into the left flank of the Urhzig. The quadruped dropped to the ground, asleep.

    Florrie exhaled deeply, no doubt relieved by both her accurate shot and the fact that her Tranq Bolt¡¯s side effect had not been triggered. Moonweave Elves, like Florrie, were known for their incredible accuracy, so precision was rarely an issue for her. She¡¯s not the only one that¡¯s glad the Tranq Bolt¡¯s side effect didn¡¯t trigger. Otherwise the Urhzig would go ape shit crazy on us right now.

    Roh gave her a thumbs up. ¡°Thanks, I owe you one!¡±

    He analyzed the motionless monster with his [Analyze Species] ability while he tried to recover from the earlier attack.

    Analyze Species

    This ability allows players to receive a detailed report on the creature, including its name, difficulty rating, weakness, strengths, weak points, resistances, and other important information.

    The information displayed on the HUD under the ¡®Party Log¡¯ tab, available for the entire party to view.

    Urhzig - Level 10 (Difficulty Heroic)

    The Urhzig is a ground-dwelling, rock-encrusted monster. It has high armor and defense against physical attacks. With its camouflage, its appearance always resembles the stones around its habitat and surrounding territory, making it difficult to see until you are too close to it to escape.

    Species: Terra Behemoth

    Element Affinity: Terra

    Role: Omega - it is lowest in the hierarchy and a solitary beast.

    Strengths: High Armour, High Defence & Camouflage

    Weaknesses: Low Agility, Astral & Tempest

    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    Resistances: Shock, Blaze & Torrent

    Weak Points: Head (Breakable) & Tail (Severable)

    Roh¡¯s mind raced with strategies and plans, knowing that this knowledge was the key to defeating the massive creature. Finally, they had the upper hand against the Urhzig. Just what we needed to take this damn beast down. Now we can exploit its weaknesses. Excitement surged through his body, ready for the fight ahead.

    ¡°I¡¯ve got you!¡± Darian¡¯s half-orc voice boomed. Roh saw him charging, clad in plate armor that signified his paladin dedication. The armor¡¯s aura of strength and protection boosted the party¡¯s resolve.

    Darian¡¯s appearance was as imposing as his voice. His striking top knot was complemented by an undercut and subtly faded sideburns, while his locks cascaded in a rich shade of black. A faint aroma of incense and holy oils wafted around him, no doubt a remnant of one of his bolstering AOE (area of effect) abilities.

    His eyes were intense, a deep amber hue that seemed to gleam with a fierce determination. They were set deep in his angular face, framed by prominent cheekbones and a squared jawline.

    As he helped Roh up, Darian¡¯s armor seemed to come alive, the polished metal reflecting the light. It covered his forearms and spread up to his biceps, depicting intricate engravings and bold designs. Its polished metal and intricate engravings contrasted sharply against his pale green skin, signifying his membership in a proud and ancient order of holy warriors.

    Despite his intimidating exterior, there was a warmth to Darian¡¯s touch as he steadied Roh. His presence exuded a sense of safety and protection, as if he were a natural leader among the group.

    Roh managed to rise to his feet, despite the pain coursing through his legs. Darian¡¯s brawny arms provided much-needed support, allowing Roh to find his balance and steady himself. Sensing Roh¡¯s discomfort, Darian deftly placed a healing pack on the ground.

    The small, glowing healing pack, shaped like a metallic circle, emanated calming blue and green hues, along with a gentle hum. As Roh stood close, shimmering particles enveloped him, their warmth easing his pain and mending his injuries.

    Darian continued, ¡°Since we now know its weakness from your analysis, we know the best weapon attack would be your Astral Axe.¡± As if on cue, the Urhzig awoke from its slumber, letting out a deafening roar that echoed across the canyon. Its massive head swung towards Roh, its eyes narrowing in anger and determination. The behemoth was a titan of the desert, an ancient force of nature that had long ruled over the barren wasteland.

    Roh gazed up at the Urhzig. The creature¡¯s massive body was easily twenty feet tall and equally long, with four thick legs that could trample anything in its path. Rough and scaly, the hide resembled the parched, cracked earth beneath its massive feet.

    The creature''s rough, textured hide matched the desert landscape, providing camouflage and shielding it from harsh conditions. Mineral veins wove through its exterior, enhancing its adaptability and appearance.

    Roh could feel the heat radiating off the Urhzig¡¯s body, making the air around it shimmer like a mirage.The colossal creature¡¯s deep growls rumbled through the ground, vibrating in Roh¡¯s bones. Its massive claws scraped against the hard-packed sand, sending up a plume of dust that filled the air with a gritty, acrid smell. The behemoth¡¯s breath was hot and fetid, like the blast of a furnace.

    Despite the Urhzig¡¯s intimidating presence, Roh and Darian stood their ground. As the behemoth moved, its massive shadow stretched for miles across the desert, darkening the landscape like a looming storm cloud.

    Darian charged towards the mountainous creature, swinging his hammer with all his might. The Urhzig let out a roar of pain and fury as the hammer struck its tail, causing a significant amount of blunt damage. The titanic beast thrashed its tail, trying to shake off the pain and attack Darian in return. However, Darian was quick on his feet and managed to dodge the Urhzig¡¯s attempts to strike him.

    ¡°My turn!¡± said Arkie, their last group member appearing from the shadows using [Shadow Step] and jumping onto Darian using his [Aero Flip].

    The skill-specific information was displayed on the HUD¡¯s Party Combat Logs.

    Shadow Step

    Allows a Shadow Gunslinger to swiftly teleport over short distances by utilizing the shadows. This ability allows them to disappear from view and reappear in a different location, catching their enemies off guard and gaining the upper hand in combat.

    Aero Flip Skill

    Allows players to use behemoths, the environment or even other players as a makeshift springboard.

    Arkie leaped onto the Urhzig, gripping its armored crevices. Despite its thrashing, he clung on, anticipating its moves. Seizing an opportunity, he drove his dual blades into the beast¡¯s back, using one to anchor himself securely.

    Roh¡¯s jaw dropped and his eyes widened. Wow, he made it look so easy. It¡¯s no wonder, considering his natural agility as a Drow elf.

    The beast roared, rearing up. Unfazed, Arkie stabbed its underbelly. It reared again. Arkie slid down, reaching for its tail. Unleashing a frenzied four-hit combo, he aimed to dismember. Swiftly, the tail fell, crashing with a sickening thud. Blood spurted, the beast roared.

    Arkie stood defiantly, blades at his sides, as the colossal beast stumbled back and collapsed, its gash dripping. Arkie wiped the blood off his blades. ¡°That¡¯s how you do it!¡±

    Roh felt a pang of envy. Arkie was naturally gifted and had honed his skills with countless gaming hours, while Roh... He shook his head. Despite the awe Arkie¡¯s performance inspired, it also served as a stark reminder of the gulf that separated them. Will I ever be that good?

    This was the first time he had seen Arkie be so exceptional at close quarter melee attacks, when his usual specialty as a Gunslinger is ranged attacks. I guess that¡¯s the good thing about multi-classing. Arkie and Florrie love to multiclass. They swear by it. I may have to try it out one day. Although how can I expect to be great at multiple classes when I already suck at just one?!

    Arkie, the Shadow Gunslinger, stood tall and lean, his lithe figure poised and ready for action. His piercing, jade eyes glinted in the dim light, revealing an intense focus hidden beneath his calm appearance. He moved with a fluid grace that suggested a lifetime of training in the art of combat.

    As he bent down to collect his spoils, a few strands of his side swept hair brushed against his pale skin. Despite the harshness of his surroundings, Arkie maintained an air of elegance and refinement, as if he were born to command attention.

    The smoky black garb that he wore clung to his body, accentuating his every movement. The high-collared coat with its smooth texture and utilitarian design suggested that it was crafted for both style and function. But even so, Arkie wore it with a sense of style and confidence that spoke to his mastery of his craft.

    As he stood back up, Arkie tucked the Urhzig tail into his pack and adjusted his holster, ensuring that his guns were within easy reach. His senses were keenly attuned to his surroundings, and he remained ever-vigilant. For a moment, all was still. The Urhzig lay motionless. The wind howled through the barren desert, stirring up great clouds of sand. The sand whipped past the motionless behemoth, coating its massive body with a fine layer of gritty particles that clung to its rough hide.

    The wind''s relentless force continued, its ferocious power tearing through the sparse, battered vegetation, bending and snapping branches as though they were mere matchsticks.

    Arkie, his voice nearly lost in the wind''s roar, shouted to the group, "I need to log out now!" His tone conveyed urgency, a desire to escape the escalating situation.

 Chapter 1 (part 2): Beta Testing

    Darian, hearing Arkie''s words, reacted with a mix of frustration and anger, his voice rising above the wind. "Now? After you got your loot, you''re just going to ditch us?"

    Arkie, caught off guard by Darian''s outburst, quickly realized the futility of his statement. "Wait... that''s right, we can''t log out. We''re still engaged in this battle," he responded, his voice laced with a resigned frustration.

    Darian, still simmering with annoyance, shot back, "So let''s finish this quickly then!"

    Arkie nodded, his momentary desire to escape giving way to a renewed focus on the task at hand.

    A sudden movement caught their attention. The Urhzig, with a mighty effort, began to stir. Its rocky body shifted and groaned as it pushed itself up off the ground. Slowly, steadily, the Urhzig rose to its feet. Despite being knocked down, the creature refused to give up. With a long shriek, it began its retreat to the cliffs. The behemoth moved across the sand dunes like a ship cutting through the waves of the ocean.

    As the Urhzig fled, Florrie raced towards Roh with a determined grace. Her eyes were not just light blue in color, but they were also tinged with violet. Her pointed ears twitching slightly with every movement.

    Her long, ashen, wavy locks bounced with each stride. As a mystic ranger, Florrie¡¯s outfit was both practical and elegant. Her white tunic flowed around her, allowing her to move and fight with ease, while the silver trimmings added a touch of sophistication. The deep purple leggings hugged her curves, accentuating her long legs and enhancing her agility. Her boots were crafted from the finest Elven leather, soft and supple, providing comfort and protection for her travels.

    ¡°You¡¯re looking a little less worse for wear,¡± said Florrie. Roh¡¯s stomach knotted and, to avoid her gaze, he looked over at Darian, with his usual beaming smile. Nothing ever phases him. I wish I was like that. Roh turned back toward Florrie as he forced a half-smile in response to her kind words.

    The wounded Urhzig limped across the scorching desert sands. As it moved in the distance, it seemed to merge with the desert itself, becoming one with the arid landscape. It was fast, belying its size and injuries. It knew it was in dire need of shelter and rest. The mammoth creature had been badly injured. Despite the pain and exhaustion, it trudged on, determined to reach the safety of its lair.

    ¡°Dammit, it¡¯s getting away!¡± Darian pointed at the Urhzig. ¡°Let¡¯s not lose it.¡±

    ¡°This must mean its health is getting low. We don¡¯t want to give it a chance to retreat and heal up,¡± said Roh.

    Roh and his party were in hot pursuit of the Urhzig, but the relentless heat was taking its toll. With each passing moment, their stamina depleted at a faster rate, and the unforgiving landscape offered no respite. A group of pale, dead trees clawed at the sky like the fingers of a giant skeleton, offering a bleak reminder of the harshness of their surroundings.

    As they trailed the Urhzig, Roh and his party kept a close eye on the wounded behemoth, careful not to lose sight of it. ¡°We need to stay vigilant,¡± Arkie warned. ¡°The Urhzig¡¯s cries of pain and rage may attract the attention of other dangers lurking nearby.¡±

    Suddenly, the Urhzig came to an abrupt halt. This unexpected stop sent a ripple of confusion through Roh and his party, briefly unsure if the behemoth had sensed their presence or something else.

    Feeling increasingly exposed on the open plains, Roh quickly surveyed their surroundings. The perimeter looked clear, offering them a brief respite. Seizing the moment, the party crouched behind a large rock, scanning the desert sands for any signs of movement.

    Huddled behind their makeshift shelter, the group was enveloped by the Urhzig''s distant cries that reverberated through the desert air. Suddenly, a chilling silence fell. Cautiously peering over their cover, the party''s hearts skipped a beat. Mere feet away, a pack of beasts lurked, their presence marked by barely perceptible movements and the occasional rustle of sand. Roh, relying on his quick thinking, activated [Creature Recognition], since [Analyze Species] was not ready for use.

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    Creature Recognition

    This ability allows players to recognize and identify the name of the creature they are facing, but would not provide any detailed information about their abilities or stats.

    Name of creature: Sandstalkers

    The Sandstalkers¡¯ bodies resembled carved sandstone, while what looked like fur coats were actually composed of delicate desert sand. Their eyes glowed like embers in the dim light, and their sharp teeth gleamed in the sun.

    The hunting party focused their gazes on the Sandstalker pack¡¯s faces. They had pointed ears, long snouts, and sharp teeth. The Sandstalker pack¡¯s seemingly fur-like coverings rippled and shifted as they moved, blending seamlessly with the desert sands around them. The hunting party could barely make out their forms, but they knew that these were predators.

    They watched as the Sandstalker pack prowled through the desert. They seemed to move without making a sound, and the hunting party was struck by how perfectly adapted they were to their environment.

    As they watched, the Sandstalker pack sprang into action. They leapt into the air, their bodies twisting and turning as they darted towards the Urhzig.

    The Sandstalker pack circled the Urhzig with hungry eyes. Despite their smaller size, their fluid movements, numbers, and tenacity posed a deadly threat to the massive beast.

    Arkie instinctively crouched down and raised his right arm as he gestured to the others to stop. ¡°Everyone hold back. This could prove an easy kill if we just stand back and let them finish the Urhzig off.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not being funny, but they could be far more dangerous than the Urhzig,¡± said Roh, hunkered down beside Arkie.

    Arkie rolled his eyes. ¡°Not if we stay out of sight and wait for them to disband.¡±

    Roh didn¡¯t like how Arkie always looked down upon him and spoke to him in a condescending manner, but he held his tongue and simply nodded in response. It was how their friendship had managed to survive this long.

    The Urhzig, though wounded, was not about to go down without a fight. It let out a mighty roar and charged at the predators, its massive bulk sending them scattering. Its roar echoed across the desert like thunder rolling across the sky.

    The predators attacked from all sides, snapping and snarling at the Urhzig. The Sandstalker pack was relentless as they darted in and out of the behemoth¡¯s range.

    With lightning-fast reflexes, the Sandstalkers leaped at the Urhzig, their sharp teeth sinking deep into its flesh. But the behemoth fought back. Each powerful swipe of its massive limbs sent Sandstalkers flying, while it endured their bites and scratches, standing firm against the onslaught.

    Despite the Sandstalkers¡¯ coordinated attack, the Urhzig managed to hold its ground. Its thick hide protected it from their sharp teeth, and its massive strength allowed it to fend off their attacks.

    The Sandstalkers worked together using their numbers to try to overpower the Urhzig. But the behemoth was too strong, and it fought back with equal ferocity, using its mighty limbs and sharp tusks to fend off the predators. It launched its strike with bloodthirsty abandon. As the Sandstalkers closed in on the colossal beast, one of the predators leaped at the massive creature, its jaws wide open and sharp teeth bared. But the behemoth was ready, and with a swift movement, it brought its massive horns crashing down upon the predator.

    The horn pierced through the Sandstalker¡¯s body, skewering it and lifting it into the air. The Sandstalker let out a howl of pain as it struggled to free itself from the Urhzig¡¯s grasp.

    The other Sandstalkers circled around, snarling and snapping at the Urhzig in an attempt to distract it and free their fallen comrade. But the behemoth was unmoved, and it held the Sandstalker in a vice-like grip.

    Despite its injuries, the Sandstalker continued to fight. Its sharp claws raked across the behemoth¡¯s hide, drawing blood and causing the massive creature to bellow in pain.

    With a final, crushing blow, it ended the Sandstalker¡¯s struggle, tossing the limp body to the ground and roaring triumphantly, a clear alpha warning to any challengers.

    The other Sandstalkers watched as their pack mate was felled by the Urhzig¡¯s massive horns. They knew that they were no match for such a mighty creature, and they retreated, their tails between their legs, having failed to bring down their prey.

    As the predators retreated into the shadows, the Urhzig let out a triumphant roar.

 Chapter 1 (part 3): Beta Testing

    ¡°Guess we will have to finish the Urhzig ourselves,¡± said Arkie.

    ¡°On the bright side, they have slowed it down and helped damage it further,¡± said Darian, tapping Arkie¡¯s shoulder. Arkie stood with his arms crossed and his eyebrows raised. A look of sheer skepticism in his face.

    Florrie stood undeterred, hands aglow with magic, confronting the Urhzig. It charged. With a slick flick of her wrist, she loosed a bolt that struck its chest, staggering the beast. Its roar met with her nimbleness, her wave after wave of magic, wearing down its armor. She erupted her strongest spell, a magical blast with such force the injured behemoth stumbled with every hit until it lost its balance and toppled to the ground. Gasping, it rose, hot wind gusts echoing in each heavy breath.

    ¡°Are you fucking kidding me?!¡± exclaimed Florrie, exasperated and out of breath. The magic had consumed all her mana and left her feeling drained.

    ¡°Surely it has got to be really low on health now,¡± said Roh.

    The beast got back up and made another attempt at fleeing.

    ¡°It¡¯s trying to get away again!¡± yelled Florrie. ¡°Everyone attack!¡± The entire party chased after the Terra Behemoth and surrounded it, watching their positions, being careful not to get trampled. In quick succession, they all attacked. Roh watched as the Urzig suddenly swung its colossal head towards Darian catching him off guard flinging him several yards away. The force knocked the wind out of his body. Darian clutched a fist to his chest as he picked himself up and managed to cough back the air into his lungs.

    ¡°Oh Shit!¡± said Roh. ¡°It¡¯s got its second wind. First, it was just defending its turf, but now? Man, it¡¯s like it¡¯s in survival mode and going all out!¡±

    ¡°Guys, a little help here,¡± said Darian as he got back up.

    ¡°We need to do something before it charges at him and finishes him,¡± said Roh, keeping some distance away from the gigantic beast who appeared to be ready to lunge at Darian. ¡°I¡¯ll use my combo attack to take aggro,¡± said Arkie. Moving in at astounding speed, he interrupted the Urhzig¡¯s attack as he targeted its hind leg with his dual blade combo attack.

    The Terra Behemoth now focussed on Arkie. ¡°Nice one, my man!¡± said Darian as he joined up with the group and emoted a high-five. Arkie left him high and dry. ¡°Oh fuck! My blades are going dull!¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t sweat it,¡± Florrie began, trying to sound calm. ¡°It¡¯s about to go down. It does this crazy thing where it¡ª¡± But before she could finish, the sky was filled with gargantuan boulders being flung from its back. One such monolithic missile narrowly evaded Roh. He gasped, eyes wide in disbelief. ¡°Whoa! That was too damn close!¡±

    Gritting his teeth, Arkie quickly retrieved a whetstone from his pouch. With practiced precision, he honed his blades, letting them slide smoothly against the stone until they emitted a high-pitched resonance. ¡°All good,¡± he declared, flashing the gleaming edges. ¡°Roh, you deliver the final blow. We¡¯ll have your back.¡±

    ¡°On it!¡± Determination burning in his eyes, Roh readied himself. With a swift motion, he unslung his Astral Axe, gripping its handle tightly.

    The bearded axe gleamed with a mystical aura, pulsing with an indigo glow that was studded with luminous particles. The intricate runic markings along the haft seemed to vibrate with a latent power, as if they were eager to be unleashed.

    Roh steadied his grip on the Astral Axe as the Urhzig charged towards him, its armored head lowered for the attack. As the creature closed in, Roh took a deep breath and focused his energy, channeling the mana he had been reserving for this very mana heavy ability. With a burst of astral power, he swung the axe with all his might, unleashing an [Ethereal Strike] that reverberated through the air like a thunderclap.

    Ethereal Strike

    Mana Cost: 50

    This ability channels the power of the Astral Axe, enabling the wielder to phase the weapon in and out of reality with tremendous force. As the Astral Axe strikes its target, it leaves behind a trail of shimmering light that seems to cut through the very fabric of reality. The impact is supernatural, slicing through even the most heavily armored opponents with ease.

    The blade of the axe seemed to phase in and out of reality, leaving behind a trail of shimmering light that sliced through the air like a phantom. With a cutting force that seemed to transcend the physical realm, the axe struck the Urhzig¡¯s armored skull, cleaving through it as though it were mere air.

    The creature let out a final, anguished cry before collapsing to the ground in a heap. The ethereal energy of the Astral Axe pulsed through the air, illuminating the surrounding area with a soft, spectral light.

    A sudden tremor shook the earth beneath them, and a massive cloud of dust erupted into the air, obscuring their vision. The sand swirled and churned, making it difficult to see anything clearly. However, as the dust slowly settled, they could make out the hulking form of the Urhzig lying motionless on the ground, its colossal body still and silent.

    Destruction characterized the aftermath of the battle. The ground, scarred with enormous craters and deep furrows, marking where the Urhzig had charged and slammed its titanic bulk in a ferocious attack. The air was heavy with the metallic tang of blood.

    Yet, the most eerie aspect of the aftermath was the unsettling silence. The Urhzig¡¯s deafening roars were now replaced by an ominous stillness that seemed to echo across the desolate landscape. Even the once-gusty desert wind had died down, as if paying solemn tribute to the fallen behemoth and the devastation it had wrought.

    ¡°Woo hoo!¡± cheered Darian, clearly pumped.

    ¡°Great job guys!¡± said Roh.

    ¡°Yeah, go team!¡± Florrie displayed a thumbs up, her enthusiasm evident.

    ¡°About time,¡± Arkie remarked with a smirk.

    Darian, unperturbed by Arkie¡¯s comment, chortled, ¡°That was ace! Time to gather up that loot!¡±

    Roh, however, was captivated by the fallen Urhzig beneath him. Eager to maximize the beast¡¯s remains, he began to cut through its rough hide with his stone knife. The giant skull, particularly, piqued his interest, as an Urhzig nasal bone was vital for crafting a crossbow that discharged rock bolts, handy against behemoths and their ilk.

    Before he dug in too deeply, he turned to the group. ¡°Mind if I take the skull area?¡± When there was no objection, he resumed his task.

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    However, penetrating the Urhzig¡¯s formidable skull proved arduous. Its cranium was robust and resilient, demanding immense effort and focus. Beads of sweat trailed down Roh¡¯s temples, yet he persisted until he breached the brain cavity.

    Once exposed, Roh meticulously extracted the organs. The feel of them ¡ª warm, slick, pulsing with residual life ¡ª was familiar yet always evocative. As he placed them into his satchel, he mentally cataloged their potential: nourishing meals from the heart, rejuvenating tonics from the liver, and the brain, when dried and ground, would yield potent ingredients for potions and elixirs.

    After he successfully procured all valuable organs, the Urhzig¡¯s carcass vanished, leaving behind only the memories of the hunt.

    Triumphant fanfare bellowed. Instinctively, Roh looked up as the pop-up displayed for the victory screen in golden lettering among a fireworks display.

    Urhzig Defeated.

    Mission Complete ¨C Victory!

    Battle Results Rank: B

    Points Earned: 10,036

    Time Taken: 57 minutes and 13 seconds.

    Damage Dealt: 32,000

    Damage Taken: 74% (TWICE KNOCKED OUT + ADDITIONAL DAMAGE)

    Stylish Points: A - Atomic! Executed varied moves, a combo, good flow and timing.

    Bonus Points: +5000 for defeating the behemoth with style and grace.

    Bonus Points: +1000 for defeating the behemoth in under 60 minutes.

    Bonus Points: +500 for attacking its weakness

    Bonus Points: +200 for executing a perfect dodge during the battle.

    Bonus Points: +100 for performing a stylish finishing move.

    Total Bonus Points: 6,800

    Bonus Items: +1

    Rewards: 7000 XP & 1500 Gold

    Behemoth Trophy: Urhzig Tail Part

    Weight:50 lbs

    Bonus: +10% Gold when strapped to your mount¡¯s saddle or mounted on a wall in a building owned by either the player, the player¡¯s party or the player¡¯s guild. (Note: The effect of identical trophies cannot be stacked)

    Roh took a moment, gathering his thoughts before breaking the silence. ¡°Good game, team,¡± he began, a gruff edge to his voice betraying his emotions. ¡°You all did incredibly well out there. Just... I¡¯ve got to own up. I fumbled at the start. Without my blunders, we could¡¯ve achieved the highest rank... bagged the top rewards.¡±

    Florrie interjected, her tone rich with warmth. ¡°Lighten up, Roh. Once you found your footing, you changed the game.¡±

    Roh resisted her praise, shaking his head in denial. ¡°No, I merely delivered the final blow. It was you three that provided the opening. Any noob could have done what I did.¡±

    Arkie couldn¡¯t resist a jab."Roh, ever the melodramatic," his voice echoing a grin. Roh felt the words slice through him, but Darian was swift to halt the banter. ¡°Arkie, enough,¡± he ordered.

    Roh sucked in a deep breath, trying to dissolve the hurt of Arkie¡¯s quip. He longed to leave this discussion in the past, to redirect attention away from his insecurities. With feigned enthusiasm, he promptly changed the topic. ¡°Let¡¯s not forget our stunning spoils! The Urhzig Tail Part,¡± he announced, lifting it high. ¡°Quite the prize, right? I¡¯m already counting the bonus gold we¡¯ll gain by showing off this gem. It¡¯s unfortunate we can¡¯t stack effects from duplicate trophies, but even so, it¡¯s a great boost, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    Florrie¡¯s eyes danced with shared excitement, her head bobbing in enthusiastic agreement, while a grin of approval subtly tugged at the corners of Darian¡¯s mouth. Arkie, in contrast, maintained his stone-faced demeanor, his response unreadable as ever.

    Each party member gained an equal portion of the total rewarded XP and gold automatically. Inspecting the loot, Roh noticed that he had received two Urhzig Pelts, three scales, and one eye. Wonderful, like I don¡¯t have seven Urhzig Pelts already. I guess it¡¯s to be expected from a beta test. They need to balance the spawn rate for when they release the game. I just need one more Urhzig nasal bone. We will need to do another run.

    Roh checked the time displayed on the HUD at the top right corner of his periphery.

    In-game time: 1:27 pm

    Real World Time: 3:15 am

    ¡°Should we have one more go?¡± asked Darian. Crestfallen, Roh looked down at the ground. ¡°I want to, but I can¡¯t believe it¡¯s so late. Going to have a big day at work with an early meeting, so I can¡¯t afford to be late. I better go get some sleep considering it¡¯s 3:15 am and I¡¯m going to feel like crap in a few hours.¡± ¡°That¡¯s alright we can always do it tomorrow night. Same time?¡± asked Darian. ¡°Yeah, sounds good to me,¡± said Roh.

    Arkie logged out.

    ¡°Okay¡­ bye then,¡± said Roh. ¡°Don¡¯t take it personally. You know what he is like. A man of few words. Unless it¡¯s about gloating, of course, then he can¡¯t shut up,¡± said Florrie. ¡°I guess.¡± Roh turned to face Darian. ¡°I had fun. Can¡¯t wait until later so I can get my crossbow and we can move on to the next behemoth. At least it will be the weekend, so I won¡¯t have to worry about work.¡±

    ¡°Same here. See you then,¡± said Darian.

    Darian logged out.

    Roh stood alone with Florrie, the silence between them stretching like an expanse he was unsure how to cross. He caught her eye, a faint smile gracing her lips, and his pulse quickened. He had always been drawn to Florrie¡¯s kindness, her bright laughter that made everything seem a bit lighter. But her presence also stirred an anxious energy in him, a nervous flutter in his stomach that made him sweat more than any virtual battle ever did.

    ¡°Good luck with your meeting tomorrow!¡± Florrie said as he prepared to leave, her voice a soothing balm that did little to quell his racing heart.

    ¡°Ah... yes, thank you, Florrie,¡± he managed to reply. The words stumbled out of his mouth, tripping over each other in their haste.

    A subtle nod, a soft ¡°goodbye¡±, and she was gone.

    Florrie logged out.

    Roh was left standing there, the echo of their brief conversation wrapping around him like a cloak. His palms were clammy, his heart still hammering against his ribs.

    Noah pulled the VR headset from his face, the abrupt shift from virtual ecstasy to his cramped studio apartment leaving a bitter taste in his mouth. Reality. It hit him harder each time he logged out.

    Exhausted, he fell onto his bed, the cold sheets a harsh reminder of his solitude. His mind still hummed with the remnants of the game, with the thrill of the chase, the glory of victory. He closed his eyes, letting the digital echoes lull him to a restless sleep.

    The blare of his alarm rudely shattered his slumber. It felt like he had barely closed his eyes. Already? He groaned, his whole body protesting against the early start. With a sigh that seemed to resonate from his core, he forced himself to leave the comfort of his bed.

    Shuffling through the familiar motions of getting ready for work, he barely registered the cool water on his skin, the taste of his hastily gulped coffee, or the chill of the morning air as he stepped outside. All he could think about was the drone of the city traffic, the numbing routine awaiting him.

    The office was a monochrome blur, his coworkers nothing more than moving shapes against the bleak backdrop. The weekly meeting¡ªmore of a sermon, really¡ªdrifted over him in a dull haze. His boss¡¯ voice, usually so jarring, seemed distant, echoing hollowly in his mind.

    A world away from the vibrant hues and thrills of the VR universe. That world, it beckoned him, whispered promises of adventures he could only dream about in this drab reality. His pulse quickened at the thought of returning. He was there, yet here. Caught between two worlds.

    He pulled into his driveway at 7 pm, the tail end of rush hour traffic leaving a sour taste in his mouth. Another long, draining day at a job he could barely stand.

    In the quiet corners of his mind, a dream flickered. To be a legend in the game, admired and revered. His heart would quicken at the thought, the allure of the virtual world calling him.

    Noah ambled into his apartment, quickly devouring a couple of slices of cold leftover pizza. His gaming setup beckoned him; he was eager to dive back into the virtual reality MMORPG ¡®Age of the Behemoths¡¯, picking up where he¡¯d reluctantly logged off in the early hours. Yet, with each blink, his eyelids felt heavier, and there was a persistent soreness in his muscles. The allure of the game, a perfect distraction from his tedious day, was undeniable. He had been dying to play the game all day. But his fatigue was equally compelling. Maybe I¡¯ll just hop on and play for a few minutes to get my fix and then let the squad know I might sit out on the hunt tonight... But as he powered up the system, an update notification popped up. Seriously? He groaned. Of course, there¡¯s an update.

    Sighing, he leaned back in his chair, thinking he¡¯d wait for the update to finish. However, in the dim light of the room, lulled by the monotonous progress bar on the screen, Noah¡¯s resistance to sleep crumbled. Within minutes, he was dozing off, head lolling to the side.

    ***

    A stabbing pain in his neck jolted Noah awake. His eyes flew open, the sudden brightness disorienting him for a moment. He blinked rapidly, trying to get his bearings. The realization that he had dozed off without intending to, slowly sank in. His headset was resting sideways on his chest, digging under his chin. Oh crap! I must have dozed off. What time is it?!? Checking his watch that he still had on, he noticed it was 5:55 am Saturday. Damn it! I better try to log in. Don¡¯t want to let the team down.

    Please enter your username and password.

    Noah entered his username.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roh¡± does not exist.

 Chapter 2 (Part 1): New Changes

    Noah¡¯s frustration grew as he repeatedly typed in his username on the virtual keyboard. He attempted to log in using the gaze input method, which he was most familiar with. Fixing his gaze upon each character displayed on the keyboard at the center of his vision for a moment, but to no avail.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roh¡± does not exist.

    He then tried using his fingers, which were tracked and mapped in-game with the specialized VR gloves he wore as part of the complete kit. This proved a much more efficient form of input as it provided accurate precision and zero lag. However, despite his efforts, the outcome remained unchanged.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roh¡± does not exist.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roh¡± does not exist.

    What the hell is going on? I¡¯ve been able to log in without a single issue since the beta was released a month ago. Probably won¡¯t make a difference, but maybe if I try the voice recognition instead.

    Throat feeling dry, his voice a bit crackly, he spoke his name aloud. ¡°Roh¡±.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roha¡± does not exist.

    Roha. Fucking Roha? I never said Roha. Stupid voice recognition.

    Gah¡­ for crying out loud!

    Oh wait, they just updated the hardware to be able to read thoughts using brainwave reading technology. That will be the most accurate input.

    Relaxing his muscles, he took in a deep breath to gain some composure from his current predicament.

    Roh, you stupid fucking game!. To his horror, the prompt appeared.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roh, you stupid fucking game!¡± does not exist.

    Hmmm¡­that¡¯s a little too accurate!

    After a moment, he tried again.

    Sorry, the username ¡°Roh¡± does not exist.

    ¡°Damn it, you piece of junk!¡± he yelled. He ripped off his headset and threw them aside. He stared at the headset. The logo ¡°Aztech Q-VR¡± emblazoned on the front.

    Let me send the game developers a message. Ask them what the hell they think they are playing at?!

    He quit the game and returned to the home screen of the Aztech Q-VR, the latest VR kit powered by a quantum processor making use of qubits rather than the defunct binary digits. For all its power of making super-realistic, immersive worlds with the most impressive graphics and intelligent AI, and at such high frame rates that never dropped, Noah couldn¡¯t even perform the simplest of tasks such as logging into the game.

    A blinking red dot caught his eye. In a user interface (UI) this usually signaled a new unread notification. Noah clicked on it and it revealed an email sent by the game developers of Age of the Behemoths.

    Email sent by Aztech Q-VR Devs at 11:00 pm on Friday 4th September 2037.

    Dear Customer #5732210,

    We regret to inform you that the game ¡°Age of the Behemoths¡± has received a code injection attack on the server today, resulting in many deleted accounts.

    We apologize for the huge inconvenience that this has caused and are shocked at how this has occurred since the data on our servers were encrypted by the state-of-the-art quantum cryptography algorithms.

    To ensure complete security moving forward, we have updated our game to utilize nodes and sharding through the Blockchain technology, along with our quantum cryptography algorithms, to fully decentralize the system. Thus, we will no longer have to rely on servers which, if they go down, becomes a bottleneck. With complete decentralization, if a single node or partition is affected, then all the information is still shared by any remaining ones. It also ensures that all game data sent via the smart contracts are public, which guarantees trust among all parties involved. The sharding will also enhance scalability and therefore stability running the game, which will prevent any issues from occurring when more and more new players join the game.

    You may notice a few unique game changes as a result ;)

    We hope you continue to play ¡®Age of the Behemoths¡¯ and enjoy the new updates!

    Yours Sincerely,

    Logan Mills

    Lead Developer of Aztech Q-VR

    Noah closed the email. Well, that¡¯s a bummer. Luckily, I only spent a few hours on the beta. It was pretty limited anyway. Attempted three Behemoths, all in one area.

    I wonder what the new changes are?

    This time, he went over to the [Create New Account] button and clicked on it instead of trying to log in. He set a new username and password and was then asked to connect his Blockchain wallet.

    Even though he already had a wallet, since all physical currencies known as fiat currencies had gone digital for over two decades, the only currency he stored on it were stablecoins as they were backed by physical assets like gold. Everything else was just risky. They were usually manipulated. But it wasn¡¯t as though he disliked the technology entirely as it did make for some interesting use cases, especially for adding exciting gameplay features. It was more that most game designers either still didn¡¯t know how to use it properly or they were greedy and thus purposely utilizing it only to line their pockets with cash by milking their players, particularly their hardcore fans, which he thought was ironic. They''re always trying to cash in on their tokens and NFTs for huge gains. However, the allure of earning gold in the game, stored as cryptocurrency tokens, was tantalizing. The best part was that there was no risk on his part, since he wasn¡¯t investing any of his own money. He was simply earning by playing the game. During the game¡¯s beta phase, the gold he earned was restricted to in-game use only. The developers were cautious, not wanting players to impact the broader economy prematurely. This decision ensured that potential bugs or imbalances did not inadvertently disrupt the digital financial ecosystem. But now, with the game¡¯s official release, he was brimming with anticipation. His grand plan was to become so proficient in the game that he could amass substantial earnings, potentially transforming his real-world circumstances for the better.

    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

    Once his wallet was connected, he moved onto character customisation. I really enjoyed the character I played with during the beta, so I think I will just stick with the same selections as before. Noah browsed over the menu selection presented at the center of his peripheral vision.

    Select Race:

    Dragon-blood

    Drow Elf

    Dwarf

    Gnome

    Half-Elf

    Half-Orc

    Human

    Moonweave Elf

    Orc

    Shapeshifter

    They will most likely add more races as DLCs in future updates, but it¡¯s not a bad starting lineup to be honest. Hmm¡­it¡¯s a tough choice but I think I will go Dragon-blood again. I really enjoyed playing it in the beta and didn¡¯t get a chance to develop it further. I could do with the raw magic power. And let¡¯s be honest, it¡¯s probably the most badass of the lot. Gotta love me some runic power.

    Dragon-blood

    Dragon-bloods are descendants of the order known as the Scions of the Dragons. Keepers of the Sanctuary, and especially the mighty beasts within. They were chosen by arcane masters of power to save all the races from the impending doom. Ancient runic magic, inherited among Dragon-blood kin, passively courses through their veins. Once awoken, this pulsating power, passed down through their ancestry, can do a great many things, from warding to raising the dead. This power allows many to live over 300 years. However, such primal magic carries heavy consequences as it originates from the fury within, therefore its downside is in the challenge of trying to maintain control.

    Racial Attributes:

    Abilities: +30 to Magic Power

    Alignment: Chaotic Neutral ¨C You value your freedom. (Chaos inherited from the Dragons within them and Neutral from their human form)

    Language: Common Script and Draconic Script

    To give myself a slight intellect boost, I¡¯ll choose to play my character at my actual age of thirty-one. Fortunately, as a Dragon-blood, I still look like I¡¯m in my twenties, thanks to our youthful appearance that¡¯s similar to that of Elves. It¡¯s interesting to note that Dwarves and Gnomes often appear much older than their actual age, which is something I won¡¯t have to worry about.

    Age: 31

    +3 Intellect

    -1 Strength

    -1 Agility

    Pity about the Strength deduction, but it¡¯s fine I will make up for it.

    It now wants me to select my backstory?

    Select Your Background:

    Exile

    Fugitive

    Noble

    Nomad

    Orphan

    Outlander

    Refugee

    Thief

    Vagrant

    Hmmm¡­didn¡¯t see this during the beta. Although it¡¯s to be expected, as it was only a small section of the game to test out. Again, all interesting choices.

    Think I will go with Orphan. Living so far away from my family, with very little contact lately, I¡¯m beginning to feel like an orphan. Swallowing hard, Roh tried to barricade the emotions swelling within him. He didn¡¯t want to allow himself to think of them for too long as missing them hurt too much and it was his fault for leaving them. They warned him time after time. Yet he didn¡¯t listen.

    I risked everything for HER.

    He could not bring himself to even dare think of her name. Right, no more! He refused to let her ruin his last source of joy. Gaming is my happy place. I¡¯m going to look at it more from a roleplaying, flavor point of view. I absolutely love getting into character and roleplaying.

    Orphan

    As one of the few remaining successors of your kind, your brethren chose a nomadic life over nobility to escape being pursued by those wishing for their extinction. Those that either feared the Dragon-bloods through ignorance or were jealous of their power. However, as a young boy, a horrific tragedy struck, as your entire family, save for you and your uncle, was slain by a traitorous Shapeshifter known as Morrkayn. Now, your sworn nemesis, you have made an oath to avenge your kin with the primal rage that awoke on that fateful day.

    Yes! The primal rage augments the fury from my chosen race and will go perfectly with the class that I always play.

    Select Class:

    Alchemist

    Artificer

    Arcane Sorcerer

    Barbarian

    Bard

    Druid

    Gunslinger

    Monk

    Paladin

    Ranger

    Rogue

    Again, some fun options that are tempting, but I always play the Barbarian. I can further fuel the rage from both my race and background with this class. Stacking that rage will make for some heavy damage output but more importantly, it will help with maintaining the threat and holding the aggro from enemies. Aiming for that high DPS mixed with a tanky build should make me more versatile for any solo playing. It also works well with my alignment. That alignment is so me - freedom baby! I hate any form of control. Hmm¡­ and maybe I can channel some of my real-life rage into my combat. Noah chuckled to himself. This should be interesting.

    He then selected the subclass screen. I''ve always wanted to multiclass, just like Arkie and Florrie in the beta. Let''s check for good options.

    Select Subclass:

    Berserker (easy)

    Druidic Barbarian (normal)

    Monastic Barbarian (hard)

    Psionic Barbarian (very hard)

    Oh wow, these options are incredible and I like how it shows the difficulty of playing each one. I love them all. However, Berserker doesn¡¯t really add anything unique besides the mindless Berserker rage that I can still obtain if I select that path of my skill tree. As for Monastic Barbarian, even though it would enable me to harness the Ki energy flow, it would require more agility which I¡¯m not building towards. And lastly, the powers from the heightened mental state of a Psionic Barbarian would be amazing, but it¡¯s going to no doubt be a large mana drain with all the skills being huge mana sinks. Thus, I think Druidic Barbarian is the one for me. The arcane power that I will be able to draw from my surroundings will augment perfectly with the ancient runic magic from my race. It even aligns best with my current alignment.

    Druidic Barbarian

    Defined by your primal instincts, you harbor an unbridled fury deep within you. Far more than pure uncontrollable emotion, the savagery of your rage exudes from your profound bond with nature, absorbing arcane physical power that has withstood the test of time. Like the tumultuous waves of the ocean or a tempest or a mother bear protecting her young, you hear the calls of your surroundings that others don¡¯t. You then channel and unleash it to bring about balance.

    Armor Proficiencies:

    Unarmored, light armor, medium armor and shields

    Bonus Trait: Natural Defense +15

    As a barbarian, your leathery, weather-beaten skin can withstand some damage.

    Weapon Proficiencies:

    Basic weapons and martial weapons

 Chapter 2 (Part 2): New Changes

    Going through the plethora of options, Roh browsed through the gender section. Male, female, nonbinary¡­ What to choose? Do I go female to check out my character as I play¡­ nah, I feel like I will go male since this game is more realistic than any game I¡¯ve played before and I really want to feel immersed like I¡¯m actually in the game. Like my avatar is a true representation of myself¡­ ah who am I kidding I will add quite a few embellishments, but at least it will represent the persona that I would adopt had I complete freedom of choice and more exciting options like these in the real world.

    Using the character creator tool, he proceeded to create a rugged physique.

    I sure as hell don¡¯t want a character with a lean build. If i can''t bulk in the real world I''m sure as hell going to in here... Ah yes! These big burly arms were great at raising an axe and crushing a Behemoth¡¯s skull during the beta. Hopefully, I will be better at withstanding the harsh terrain too since I¡¯m yet to experience the other biomes. My character¡¯s build is still not as hefty as Darian¡¯s Half-Orc, but it is pretty large for a Dragon-blood.

    I wonder if Darian, Florrie and Arkie will create the same characters. It is tempting to try some of the other races and classes, but I¡¯m just so happy with mine.

    Hair color caramel, skin color bronze, eye color blue. These are all just like my own, but I¡¯ll add a little flair with a Viking-inspired, tousled Mohawk. I may have gone a bit overboard, but the character creation tools are just so impressive. Besides, I want a character whose appearance can impress the ladies, but also strike fear in the enemy.

    As for my name, I will go for the same one as the beta as it¡¯s awesome and matches both my ancestry and class. Plus I¡¯m not fond of leetspeak and unwieldy gamertags.

    Username: Rohgar The Rage

    Now finally, my weapon. I can choose from any of the ten available starter weapons. It seems they are all initially made of bone - common bone - so not even from a strong creature at that. I¡¯m gonna upgrade, craft or buy a better quality weapon first chance I get. As for weapon type¡­ I¡¯m going to make great use of this bulky figure of mine and go for the mighty Two-handed War axe. This means I will have to forgo any shield, and it¡¯s no doubt going to be quite unwieldy with a slow attack speed, but I guess that¡¯s the sacrifice one makes for more offense.

    Once he confirmed that he was happy with his character, Roh made sure to toggle off most of the notifications within the settings similar to how he had done before when playing the beta since he did not want repetitive callouts flooding his vision every time he gained XP, did damage, took damage, picked up loot, etc. He also didn¡¯t want the frequent warnings from his hunger and cold vitals or his encumbrance. At the best of times, it breaks the immersion and, at the worst of times, it just gets plain annoying.

    The next screen bombarded Roh with a selection of gacha NFT purchases. There were loot boxes and in-app purchases for NFTs of all kinds: pets, mounts, weapons, armor, equipment, items, spells, furniture and land. Ooh Land, me likey a lot! Hmm¡­ all the things I could do with my very own piece of land. All the rest of the purchases are liabilities and would only drop in value, but land - now that¡¯s an asset. And gachas are risky. Everyone knows it¡¯s so rare to get anything good so no doubt if I chose a pet or mount I would get the most useless, laziest one that would just slow me down, get in harm¡¯s way and get me in more trouble than it¡¯s worth. And if I chose from one of the other categories, I would again get the most common, cheapest piece of junk. Land is the safest option. You can¡¯t go wrong with land and worst case, I could just sell it off for a neat profit. He smiled to himself, content with his decision.

    I bet Florrie has bought a pet. Who am I kidding? She has probably bought an entire menagerie. Arkie has no doubt gone for weapons - his pride and joy. Roh rolled his eyes. And Darian¡­ hmm¡­ well, he has no doubt gone for armor. He¡¯s all about defense and style, that one.

    Roh¡¯s curiosity got the better of him. I guess a sneak peek wouldn¡¯t hurt. Resting his chin on his left hand, fingers drumming against his cheek, he motioned for the [Pet Shop Screen] with his right hand.

    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

    An overabundance of vibrant colors assaulted his senses as a variety of different pets were advertised. One of which caught his attention.

    [Legendary] Psychic Stag Kitsune

    ¡î¡î¡î¡î¡î (5 star rating)

    Special Ability: Supernatural Psychic Abilities

    Cannot be purchased - earned as a reward for the first player who hunts the Elite Behemoth in the Arena Pit in solo mode.

    It was the most adorable creature he had ever seen. OK, I¡¯m not exactly the gushy type, but dang, that fur ball is cute looking! It was the fluffiest fur ball of a kit with the cutest pair of little stubs on its head and the roundest apple head with the largest protruding eyes, like a sugar glider. Being a kit, it still only had one tail. It will no doubt gain more tails as it develops and gets more powerful. He could feel his heart melting at the sight of it. Wow, these developers are good! They have used the baby face psychological bias to the maximum here to draw us players¡­and it¡¯s working damnit! I just want to nurture this little guy¡­eh but who am I kidding? I can¡¯t even take care of myself, so there is no way I can take care of something else even in a game, especially one based on such a brutal and unforgiving land. They¡¯d be mauled, clawed, or stomped on in seconds. Probably all three. It will be a waste of money. Roh knew this was the lie he had to tell himself from fear of disappointment, since who wouldn¡¯t want the best pet in the game? Not only did it have the best visuals, but also the best rating and ability to boot. But realistically, the chance of actually being able to defeat the Elite Behemoth in solo mode and especially to be the first player to do so in order to get the best pet in the game was so ridiculously low. At least they have balanced it so it¡¯s not pay to win.

    I guess I could get one of the pets that can be purchased, but they will just be cosmetic pets and anyway I already have a real animal that depends on me. Casper is always bugging me daily for leftovers and he¡¯s not even mine! I swear his owners are never home. I never understand why they have him if they are never there. I¡¯m just grateful they live a few doors down, so I don¡¯t have to keep listening to his incessant meowing. Nah, whom am I kidding¡­ He will be over any minute now, telling me all about his day. Don¡¯t think he would be pleased if I replaced him with a digital pet. Moving on. Roh swiped over to the [Land Sales Screen]. So it looks like there are differently priced tiers of land for the different sizes and then the location you receive in each tier is randomized. Ah yes, this is what I want.

    [Tier 1] Land Deed

    1 Plot of land

    Price: $1000

    I will buy this one since it¡¯s the only one within my budget. Roh frowned. Silly prices for virtual land if you ask me. He clicked on the buy button.

    Congratulations on your purchase!

    You are now a land owner entitled to your very own piece of land.

    This deed entitles you to one plot of land in the Bagu region. It will be stored in your inventory.

    Note: You will be able to access your land once you have completed the instanced onboarding in the game.

    For only $250 extra you can pay for an NPC to guard your land?

    Gah fine! I guess it¡¯s only $250 to protect my $1000 investment.

    Your starting location will be randomized. Would you like to purchase a starting location of your choice for $50?

    ¡°Hell no, making me pay real money just for a starting location and 50 quid at that. That¡¯s daylight robbery!¡± shouted Roh aloud. These designers¡­ first with their behavioral economic tactics and marketing with the pets and now their sale strategies of upselling and cross selling. I just want to play the game already. I don¡¯t care where I start.

    Roh gestured a tap on the cancel button, then exited the store section and tapped on the Start Game. A notice popped up on the loading screen.

    You will enter the game shortly, for the first time. Note that you will spawn within an instance. If you are not familiar with MMO jargon, an instanced area is a copy of an area generated specifically for you. As such, you will not be able to join friends just yet, nor will they be able to join you until you leave the area. Therefore, everything within the area such as the environment, NPCs, creatures, items, quests, etc. will only be provided to you. The instance provides emergent gameplay created specifically to each player due to the infinite choices and possibilities in this world managed by our incredibly intelligent and evolving AI making use of the latest deep learning technology. You can, however, take things from this area and likewise, you can return to the area with others as long as they are in your group, initially with you as the party leader, before entering.

    I never realized any of this. Wow, this sounds great! I¡¯m even more excited about playing now.

 Chapter 2 (Part 3): New Changes

    After what felt like forever, the intro cut scene played. The camera view started with an aerial view, high above the terrain, that descended and translated into a rapid paced fly-through of the lush green, untouched expanse of wilderness. It then dampened and eased out as the title of the game ¡®Age of the Behemoths¡¯ appeared in monumental stone lettering. The game¡¯s title resembled aged monoliths and ruins, angled and skewed as if it resided in world space and was part of the scenery. It then crumbled and faded as a man¡¯s voice echoed throughout the environment. The voice was subtle and eloquent, but with a calming warmth that lured Roh to his words. ¡°Welcome to the Age of the Behemoths and to the lands of Aluria!¡± he began. ¡°To the primal age where colossal, mythical beasts inhabit and roam the vast lands.¡± His descriptions were visualized with many large beasts wandering the landscape. Some mountainous, in comparison.

    The narrator continued, ¡°These lands are divided into floating shards stacked unevenly beneath each other. From the really bright, early levels below the primordial light.¡± The camera zoomed out as visuals of lucid levels, filled with the bloom shader effect, displayed. Everything appeared to have an overly radiant glow due to the lighting and shader effect. Roh took in all the eye-candy. Ah! Feels so heavenly.

    ¡°All the way down past the canopy of clouds. And then further down below the sea of stars to the darkest recesses where only the most hardcore players dare challenge,¡± he continued. The camera was zoomed so far out that the sky¡¯s hue appeared like a gradient. It started with bright white at the very top, before blending into bright colors just beneath. It then bled into dark colors before ending in pitch black darkness. The footage cut back to one of the earlier biomes as more narration followed, ¡°Teeming with life, every biome with its own unique climate contains a myriad of flora and fauna to explore and discover, ranging from Drakes to Wyverns, Dragons and Leviathans as well as many other strains of new and undiscovered species.

    This is a game where your very survival depends on mastering the art of the hunt.

    Everything from the food you eat to the armor and weapons that aid you in battle is crafted from the remains of these titanic creatures. Although depending on your race and class, you could use more than might to your advantage. Drow Elf or Dragon-blood? Artificer or Gunslinger? How about both or is an Apothecary more your thing? Perhaps you prefer to wield the runic magic essence absorbed from the mana surrounding you? Either way, be aware of your environment as it could help or hinder you. With so many choices for you and your party, synergy in your strategy is essential.

    In this open world, how you choose to roleplay is up to you!¡±

    The cut scene ended, and after a brief pause, Roh spawned in the game. His eyes took time to adjust, as it was unusually bright, almost unbearably so. The light did not originate from a single source like the sun, but instead seemed to emit perpetually up above him. The lower he looked, the more the light dissipated and he could finally make out the sky behind the lower regions of the light source. Pale blue with not a single cloud in sight. As his eyes adjusted, he noticed that he had spawned in an icy biome.

    Roh plodded through the blanket of snow, his worn leather sandals sinking into the soft powder with every step. The bitter chill nipped at his skin. As he walked, he gazed in wonder at the stunning scenery around him. Majestic peaks rose up to the sky, their summits dusted with snow. A frozen river twisted its way through the valley below, its surface gleaming in the bright light.

    Roh¡¯s sharp eyes searched the area for signs of life and he was rewarded with a sight of a pack of wolves hunting a herd of deer in the distance. He watched as the wolves encircled their prey, their sleek bodies moving with smooth efficiency. Nearby, an eagle swooped through the trees with its wings spread wide, displaying its power and grace. Roh couldn¡¯t help but feel a sense of awe of the majesty of the natural world.

    As he continued his journey up the mountain, he encountered other forms of wildlife, from rabbits darting among the trees to a family of foxes huddled together for warmth. Unlike the busy and colorful Central Hub in the beta where he and other players usually spawned, this new starting location was desolate and quiet, save for its animal inhabitants. The entire village appeared to be blanketed in white, nestled high in the snowy mountains.

    A location popped up on the HUD.

    STARTING LOCATION: NA¡¯ROK VILLAGE

    Followed by Roh¡¯s starting stats.

    Rohgar The Rage - Level 1

    Title: Unproven Hunter

    Having the physique of a hunter is not enough to make one a hunter.

    Race: Dragon-blood

    Class: Barbarian

    Subclass: Druidic Barbarian (Gained at level 5)

    Background: Orphan

    Primary Attributes (Vitals):

    HP: 100/100

    Defense: 15/15 (Natural Defense)

    Mana: 50/50

    Stamina: 110/110

    Vigor: 3/3

    Hunger: 20/100

    Cold: -20/100

    Boons:

    Fervent Fury (Class Trait) - Rage + 20

    Anger broils deep within you.

    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.

    Bearlike Strength (Gained from Rugged Physique) - Strength + 3

    You possess enormous strength.

    Runic Markings (Racial Trait) ¨C Unlocks Arcane Runic Powers at various levels

    Runic markings on your body ignite and illuminate during your rage, activating the powers.

    Hot Blooded (Racial Trait) - Cold Resistance +20

    More like Drake blooded, you exude heat like a Drake.

    Banes:

    Heavy-footed (Class Trait) - Agility -2

    Nimble...is what you are not.

    Hungersome (Gained from Rugged Physique) - Hunger +20

    You have an insatiable appetite. This body needs more calories than the average person. You get hungry 20% more often and consuming food items are affected by a 20% reduction.

    Flaws: You harbor a deep resentment towards all Shapeshifters (Gained from Orphan background) ¨C Relationship Rank with Shapeshifters 10/100

    Equipment: Meager tattered loincloth and worn leather sandals.

    One size fits all. The default starter gear.

    Weapon: Two-handed War Axe (Bone)  - Common

    Your weapon of choice.

    Item Level 1

    Physical Damage: 9 ¨C 16

    Critical Strike Chance: +6.0%

    Attacks per second: 0.6

    Range: 13 ft

    Weight: +25

    Durability: 5/5

    Currency: 125 gold pieces.

    Skinning Tools: Skinning knife with holster and whetstone.

    Inventory: 7/10 ¨C Survival Pack (Filled waterskin, 5 x small [low quality ¨C 1 star] rations, Mending Gel, pot, rope, bedroll and pickax).

    Reputation: Na¡¯rok Village -50 (Distrusting).

    He checked his stats from the top. The title makes sense, considering I¡¯ve only just started the game. As for the equipment?

    He then closed the prompts and looked down. Roh noticed that faint sigils covered his arms. Sweet, the runic markings from my Dragon-blood race look awesome. Can¡¯t wait to see them illuminate. He continued inspecting his new form and discovered that he was wearing nothing at all, save for a loincloth a few sizes too small. It was way too tight, barely covering his dignity and with several holes. On his feet, he noticed the worn leather sandals.

    Nostrils flared. Is this some kind of joke?!

    At least I¡¯ve got my trusty axe, I guess. Although I can¡¯t wait to get a bearded axe in the game, as those are my favorite. The buffs are looking good. No wonder I¡¯m not affected by the cold just yet. Although... I didn¡¯t realize the boons and banes! That¡¯s new. The agility reduction better not bite me in the ass during a fight and ¡®Hungersome¡¯? Well, that explains this awful hunger.

    He looked further down. The 125 gold pieces and survival pack sure are handy. I¡¯m just glad I don¡¯t have to physically carry the pack and its contents around and can just access my inventory and items with gestures.

    Eager to get started, he decided to take in his new surroundings.

    Among all the white, rounded peaks of granite protruded from all around the village, surrounding and enclosing the sparsely laid out wooden huts. Although not as comforting as the central hub he was used to, Roh felt a sense of protection among these large protrusions of rock-face. Almost as if the mountains were living guardians protecting all its inhabitants. It felt idyllic up there, looking down at the valleys far below.

    This feels like a good place as any for new players to join. Away from all the dangerous creatures out in the wild, particularly the Behemoths. Roh drew in a deep breath of the crisp, fresh mountain air.

    Almost as if to challenge his thoughts, he could hear the howling wind as the mysterious light above changed in hue from the bright white to a tint of blue and sleet began to fall. The surrounding area grew a shade darker, which gave off an almost eerie look.

    On closer inspection, he noticed a central courtyard surrounded by a dozen or so dwellings. These huts were low and squat, constructed of heavy logs and stone. They appeared to have been constructed haphazardly in haste.

    A gust of wind, strong and threatening, blew down the lane, causing the entire ramshackle block to shake. The gust ran straight through Roh¡¯s scantily clad body like a rogue¡¯s dagger.

    Smoke billowed from tall central beams atop the center of each building. Mixed with the smoke, Roh could smell freshly cooked meat. With a panging sensation, his stomach rumbled. He could almost taste the flavor of whatever local beast had just been cooked. It was almost too much to bear. His mouth watered at the smell of the meat that was surely roasting over a fire.

    Caught up in his culinary reverie, the frozen sleet whipped across his exposed skin and the howling wind grew stronger as it echoed in his ears.

    Wow! Talk about a punishing starting area. My stats are taking a beating so quickly. I hope I didn¡¯t mess up when creating my build. Seems like that Hungersome Bane is going to be the bane of my existence. How would I explain it to the others if I die at level one? That would be embarrassing. Good thing I have the Hot Blooded racial trait that provides me with some cold resistance, but I still need to find some shelter in this unforgiving wilderness¡­ and fast.

    With each step, he felt the soft crunchy sleet beneath his sandals and every breath he exhaled looked like a plume of white steam.

    He hesitated, unsure of how the villagers would react to his presence. They would no doubt be wary of strangers, and he did not want to start a confrontation.

    But his need for food and shelter was too great, and he decided to take the risk. He made his way up a slope, approaching the village cautiously.

    From door to door, Roh knocked, but no one answered. He could hear shuffling sounds from within each hut and even hushed voices speaking in a language that he could not understand, but for some reason, sounded familiar. He tried calling out. ¡°Hello! Anybody there?¡±

    No response.

    The villagers were obviously there. The smoke from their cooking being the biggest giveaway.

    Knuckles red and raw, he gave up and walked further on, hoping to find shelter close by. Well, the NPCs sure are different in this game. I know the devs said that the NPCs in the game would be unlike the stupid, repetitive NPCs that used very limited and specific algorithms in other games. They said that they used neural networks and deep learning for the NPC¡¯s AI so that the ¡°NPCs would be realistic by dynamically adapting and evolving to their experiences¡± but my gosh is this proving annoying. Bring back the basic NPC who doesn¡¯t bat an eyelid at welcoming a complete stranger in their home. Although saying that I¡¯d much prefer this to those emotionless, generic, repetitive and out of context NPCs. I guess this is more immersive and I just need to get good.

    He kept going until he reached the very edge of the village. A cliff dropping down below. He could walk no further.

    Well, this is a great start! I¡¯m about ready to rage quit. He slumped to the floor in defeat when an abandoned hut overgrown in foliage caught the corner of his eye. It was hard to tell where the tree ended and the hut began.

    Separated by a great distance from the surrounding buildings. A flickering glow effused from the cracks in the wooden slats.

    The neglected hut was small and unassuming, tucked away in a clearing amidst a dense forest. It was made of rough-hewn logs, with a thatched roof and a smoke hole in the center. A faint wisp of smoke curled upwards from the hole, indicating that the hut¡¯s occupant was home.

    Roh picked himself up and, as he reached the forlorn hut, he noticed a wooden sign above the door. He could not read the first section of it as it was all battered, weather-beaten, and flipped over. However, the remaining letters read: ¡°& Tucks Tailoring¡±.

    He knocked at the door half expecting no one to answer again, when to his astonishment, a short and stout dwarven male, with an almost crazed look in his eyes, opened the door and stood before him. ¡°Greetin¡¯s.¡±

 Chapter 3 (Part 1): The Recluse

    The weathered-looking hermit was clad in a simple tunic and leggings, patched and worn from years of use. The dwarf stood before them, his lengthy mane of white hair fastened at the back with twigs and straw, while his bare feet grounded him to the earth. In his grasp, he clutched a gnarled wooden staff, a sign of his age and experience. Though he seemed plain and unremarkable, the dwarf''s presence exuded a sense of tranquility and sagacity.

    At first the hermit gave off a composed demeanor, but when his eyes settled on Roh, the dwarf let out a thunderous laugh that shook the very foundations of the ground beneath them. His beard trembled up and down with each wave of laughter.

    ¡°Why are you laughing so much?¡± Roh asked as he rubbed the back of his neck.

    ¡°Although I often gets visitors from players looking to earn a reward and some coin, I couldn''t help but notice you took great advantage with that bulky build you have there. Trying to compensate for something?¡± cackled the dwarven hermit.

    Roh frowned and dropped his gaze to the floor, shoulders dropping at his sides.

    ¡°I think the developers thought it funny to provide only one size loincloth as the starter ¡®armor¡¯. Either that or they got lazy,¡± he continued. ¡°Ah cheer up lad! You should see the ones that choose the leanest build. Poor sods having to hold onto theirs constantly with fear of it falling off. Although dare I say it. That¡¯s an even rarer sight.¡±

    The recluse ushered Roh into the dilapidated hut. Inside, the hut was cramped and cluttered, with bundles of herbs and dried flowers hanging from the rafters, and pots and pans stacked haphazardly on a rough-hewn shelf. In the center of the hut, a small fire burned in a pit, providing warmth and light. The fire crackled and hissed, casting a warm glow on the hut.

    ¡°To show you I mean well. Here, have these leather trousers. Just so happens I have your size,¡± he winked. I did a fair bit of tailoring back in my day. It¡¯s a handy skill to have and makes for some good coin too.¡± He picked up the trousers from an open storage chest and passed it to Roh. Looking down to avoid eye contact, Roh reached out and took the leather trousers and placed them on

    a wooden table next to him. He wanted to change the subject to anything other than subjects surrounding his groin area. ¡°So how come I can understand you, but when I knocked at one of the huts, I heard another language?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s because this here is a dwarven village so we speak in our native Dwarven tongue. Although with outsiders like yourself we speak Common Script. Well, mostly me anyways. The others are little less trusting to strangers as you have no doubt seen.¡±

    Roh furrowed his brow and drummed his fingers on his chin. No wonder it sounded familiar. Dwarven Script makes use of runes similar to Draconic Script. That could come in handy.

    ¡°How come you¡¯re the only one here who opened the door?¡±

    ¡°Ah, don¡¯t take it personally.¡± The dwarf eyed the faint sigils along Roh¡¯s arms. ¡°You should know all about distrust considering you¡¯re a Dragon-blood. No mistaking it with those marks. So your race, just like mine, knows what happens when you put your trust in the wrong sort. It can cost you dearly. All dwarves are distrusting in nature and even more so us highlander mountain dwarves. Folks around these parts survive because they know how to keep to themselves. It¡¯s not called Na¡¯rok Village for nothing. It¡¯s named after the Rock Naga that roam these parts in the ancient language of the Seren people. Since them beings don¡¯t need to eat and therefore hunt for food, they don¡¯t normally cause any issues as they keep to their dwelling, but it gets dangerous once the Primordial Light turns dark crimson every few days. That¡¯s when the Rock Naga Behemoths come out from their lairs to perform their rituals and if they feel threatened, possibly because one of the villagers strayed too far and encroached their territory, they attack the village. They prefer the night since they see better in the dark due to their Shadowsight. Probably a result of them living below the mountain rocks. Plus they prefer attacking others in their sleep since they don¡¯t require sleep themselves.¡±

    If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    ¡°Primordial Light? Rock Naga?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re definitely new to these here parts. The Primordial Light is the light above us which has existed from the beginning of time hence its name.¡± The highlander looked towards the boarded-up windows where a few rays of light managed to seep through the cracks into the otherwise dimly lit room that¡¯s only real source of light and heat seemed to radiate from a hearth at the far back. It flickered and crackled as if acknowledging its presence.

    ¡°And the Rock Naga are terrible, ferocious monsters with their large carapace and sharp fangs. They can crush you and poison you in one fell swoop. They were the original inhabitants of this here rocky Mountainside.¡±

    ¡°So then why did you open the door?¡±

    ¡°It is my responsibility as the appointed quest giver of this land to fulfill this duty, even when others recoil in fear. Age has taught me that fear is a wasteful emotion, one to be disregarded. Some may all it bravery, others may call it folly. The distinction is yours to make,¡± he smiled as he moved to sit beside a bed near the hearth.

    ¡°As yer quest giver in this ol'' mystical world, it''s up to me to send ye off on yer first grand mission, but let me tell ye, I''ve got another rascally task that might light a fire under ye. Right barmy, it is, for a greenhorn like yerself. It involves baggin'' a Wyvern Core, so ye best buckle up! It''s an undertaking not for the faint-hearted. You''ll need courage as solid as our Dwarf-kin forges, ready for a fight like none other.¡±

    "A Wyvern Core?" Roh blurted out, his heart skipping a beat. He eyed the quest giver with wide, disbelieving eyes. "Like, from a real, live Wyvern?" He paused, incredulity painting his features.

    "Dude, are you out of your mind?" His voice wavered, the insecurity seeping into his words. He was just a level one noobie, freshly spawned into this vast gaming world. Roh felt the cold sting of uncertainty wash over him as he imagined facing the formidable beast.

    "Heck," Roh muttered, swallowing hard, the lump in his throat making it difficult. He had yet to taste victory over even the lowliest of foes. The thought of standing toe-to-claw with a wyvern was both terrifying and ludicrous. "I haven''t even bashed any low-level mobs yet, and you''re asking me to go up against a freaking Wyvern?"

    He took a deep, shaky breath, trying to steady his nerves. He glanced back at the quest giver, his eyes pleading. "Look," he managed, his voice barely above a whisper, "I''m just a regular gamer. I don''t always nail every quest or boss fight." Doubt gnawed at the edges of his confidence.

    Roh paused, the silence hanging heavy in the air. He clenched his jaw, the internal struggle evident on his face. "Are you sure you got the right guy for this?" His voice was laced with trepidation, the question lingering as he grappled with his own insecurities.

    A beat of silence rang in response. Roh''s heart pounded in his chest, the reality of his daunting task sinking in. He was speechless, caught in the throes of uncertainty and fear. His hands began to fidget restlessly, absent-mindedly tugging at the corners of his loincloth when he remembered the state of them and felt hot flushes rising in his cheeks.

    Before the embarrassment could fully set in, an unexpected sound sliced through the tension. It was a splutter, feeble yet audible, emanating from a dimly lit corner of the room. Startled, Roh peered into the semi-darkness. He hadn''t noticed anyone else when he first entered, but there, nestled in the shadows, was the outline of a figure reclined on the bed.

 Chapter 3 (Part 2): The Recluse

    Roh stepped closer to examine the unseen figure. Beneath a mound of coverings, an individual of human likeness lay in deep slumber, his complexion as pale as winter''s first snow. His lips, a haunting shade of blue, contrasted sharply against his ashen skin. Underneath the cascading layers of blankets, drawn up to his chin, his short and stout silhouette was barely noticeable. His face was twisted into an expression of anguish, silently testifying to the unbearable pain he must be enduring. Beads of perspiration trickled down his skin, revealing his body''s futile fight against an invisible enemy. The rhythm of his breath was labored and shallow, each gasp for air sounding like a whisper of desperation. It was undeniable - he was ensnared in the cruel grip of extreme discomfort.

    The appalling sight and the overpowering stench left Roh reeling. He took a step back, his eyes blinking rapidly in shock. The muscles in his neck tightened, and his legs grew weak beneath him.

    What on earth?

    Catching sight of Roh¡¯s concern and discomfort, the hermit dwarf piped up, ¡°As I was just about to say, it just so happens I¡¯m in need for someone to go fetch me a Wyvern Core as that seems to be the only thing that will rid this infernal Frigid Blight.¡± The recluse looked Roh directly in the eyes and as if reading his mind responded, ¡°And don¡¯t worry it¡¯s not contagious to your Dragon-blood species.¡±

    Letting out a huge breath as his muscles began to relax, Roh pulled up a stool and sat beside the hermit. ¡°What is the Frigid Blight?¡±

    "The root of our village''s distrust for outsiders, it all comes back to this," the dwarf began, his tone heavy with the weight of a story too often retold. "This player right here," he gestured toward the ailing man, "he was a lot like ye - brimming with potential, but doubting his own worth. His quest, ye see, was to slay the Glacial Gorgon - a mythical beast notorious for spreading the Frigid Blight."

    The dwarf let out a sigh, his eyes downcast. "But when he confronted the beast, he froze. Not from the beast''s icy curse, mind ye, but out of sheer fear. The Gorgon, seeing its chance, struck him with the Frigid Blight."

    The dwarf''s gaze turned back to the unconscious human. "Ever since that day, I''ve been his keeper, trying my best to make him comfortable."

    He then shifted his gaze back to Roh, a serious expression on his face. "Here''s the kicker about this game - it''s been designed with brutal realism in mind. Each player gets just one life, one character. And because of this permanent debuff," he gestured toward the human again, "he''s unable to play. The game is tethered to your crypto wallet, all regulated with KYC - Know Your Customer laws. So, once a character is created, it''s permanent. There''s no do-over. That''s his fate now."

    The dwarf sighed heavily, running a calloused hand through his thick beard. "It''s a harsh reality, ain''t it? The developers were so hell-bent on creating a world as close to real as possible, they forgot that games are supposed to be fun, a break from reality. But here we are, bound by the rules they''ve set."

    He turned to Roh, his gaze stern yet filled with a sorrow that hinted at the countless times he''d told this tale. "This game doesn''t give ye second chances. If ye fall, if ye fail... that''s it. There''s no magical resurrection or retries. Your character, your progress, it all vanishes."

    His words hung in the air, and Roh felt an icy knot tighten in his stomach. The risk was real, the danger tangible. He gulped, his throat dry as he tried to muster the strength to respond.

    Before Roh could interject, the dwarf went on. "Yet, there''s a way to save the lad. A Wyvern Core, when set upon the hearth, can bring him back. Aye, it''s a perilous quest, and truth be told, no player has ever returned triumphant."

    Roh''s gaze shifted to the ashen figure lying on the bed, dread coursed through his veins, intertwining with the pulsating adrenaline of his own anxious anticipation. Self-doubt gnawed at him, intensifying the heavy sensation in his chest. He was no hero, he knew that much. He was just an ordinary guy, merely a novice at this game. He was stepping into a world filled with danger and uncertainty, with the knowledge that his every move might seal his fate just as it had the stranger''s. He couldn''t shake the chilling realization that this could have been him. This could still be him.

    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

    "Well, after that glowing tale, who wouldn''t want to take on a Wyvern?" Roh quipped with heavy sarcasm.

    Tuck smirked, adding, "Oh, and did I forget to mention? There''s a hefty reward waiting for anyone who manages to pull it off."

    Roh''s expression shifted instantly, his concerns momentarily pushed aside by a glint of insatiable desire in his eyes. "A reward, you say?" He leaned in, the idea of a lucrative prize fueling his ambition. If it''s as bountiful as I imagine, that could be my ticket. Enough gold crypto tokens, and I''m not just a legend in this world, but a game-changer in the real one. Roh squared his shoulders, determination setting in his gaze. "Alright," he declared, "I''ll do it!"

    (Optional) Side Quest Accepted ¨C A Favour for the Recluse

    Reheat the hearth with a Wyvern Core

    Objective: Hunt a Wyvern and retrieve its Wyvern Core

    Location: Wyvern Heights

    Recommended Level: ?

    Conditions: None

    Failure conditions: Failure to reheat the hearth with a Wyvern Core

    Rewards:

    Mystery Prize

    1000XP

    +200 reputation with Na¡¯rok Village.

    ¡°Ah, now that¡¯s a good lad. I¡¯m extremely grateful to you. Believe you me, you won¡¯t regret it! Plus it will help you gain favor with the locals so that they actually respond to you. True you could have

    spawned somewhere warmer with lots of trade, resources, advanced discoveries and more trusting and helpful locals with a much larger population¨C ¡±

    ¡°Ok, I get it!¡± Roh interrupted. He hadn¡¯t felt disappointed about his starting location until now. I should have paid for that damn gamepass to choose my starting location. I bet this is how they purposely punish those that don¡¯t - spawn them in the shithole locations.

    ¡°What I¡¯m getting at is that even though this land is so wild, there are far more civilized societies out there, believe it or not. But in the same breath, there are also many uncivilized inhabitants out there, so you are lucky you didn¡¯t spawn near a clan or tribe, especially the cannibals!¡±

    Well, the dwarf has a point. Things could have been far worse. In this game, most of the lands are untouched, untamed and unforgiving, so I¡¯m actually pretty lucky.

    "We may just be a humble village," said the dwarf, his voice deep and rich like the depths of the earth, ¡°but I do possess something of great value." He leaned forward, eyes alight with mischief, and whispered, "A living tome of an enchanted bestiary, handed down from the great mages of old."

    With a flourish, the dwarf drew forth a small pouch from his cloak and sprinkled a pinch of dust onto the floor. The air shimmered and rippled, and from thin air, a great tome appeared before them.

    "Ah, let it not be said that I, the quest giver, did not do my duty by passing along this wondrous Bestiary to you, hunter. Your path is one of exploration, of delving into the mysteries of these lands and the colossal creatures that call them home. To be the greatest among hunters, you must know the land intimately, in both heart and flesh. Any knowledge you gather shall be recorded by magic, without need of specific request, but have no fear, the quest shall guide you, showing you the way. From this moment forward, you shall receive your next quest upon the completion of each one, unless of course your journey leads you to other wonders."

    The dwarf presented Roh with the tome bound in leather, its cover etched with knotwork and the symbol of a great horned beast. ¡°This arcane book,¡± the dwarf explained, ¡°held the knowledge of every behemoth that roamed the land.¡±

    "Now it appears empty but for one beast, added by me to serve as a guide," the dwarf rumbled, his voice deep like the earth. "For all other beasts you encounter, capture an image using earthy pigments like red and yellow ochre, then record details in charcoal. Here are enchanted pouches and vials to collect their traces."

    "These traces will disintegrate and reappear in the tome''s pages," the dwarf continued, handing over a small leather satchel. "The more beasts you capture and study, the more valuable the secrets unlocked within. Once unlocked they will magically appear on the pages revealing powerful knowledge."

    Roh tucked all the items into his inventory. Feeling inspired by the very realistic and convincing encounter with the Dwarf, Roh felt compelled to respond to him with a heartfelt response. Thinking of something to say, Roh responded,  "Erm....Ok Dwarf! I shall accept your noble quest. I won''t stop there either until I become the greatest hunter the world has ever known." His eyes quickly looked towards the Dwarf for any sort of approval of his acceptance speech.

    The dwarf''s eyes twinkled with amusement. "Go forth, young hunter, and may the beasts reveal their secrets to you."

 Chapter 3 (Part 3): The Recluse

    Roh held the ancient tome in his hands, thumbing through its pages, barren save for the initial entry gifted to him by the wise dwarf. The first page held an overview of the extensive research and study within. Any info that he read was then displayed on the system notifications due to the brainwave technology. It provided better readability than the much smaller, fanciful script etched in the tome.

    BESTIARY

    Discoveries 0%

    Behemoths

    Research Level 1 (Locked) - Basic Info & Difficulty Level

    Research Level 2 (Locked) - Materials

    Research Level 3 (Locked) - Locations, time of day and weather for spawning

    Research Level 4 (Locked) - Evolutions

    Research Level 5 (Locked) - Weak spots

    Research Level 6 (Locked) - Weaknesses

    Pathfinder Levels

    Level 1 (Locked) - Locate Area

    Level 2 (Locked) - Locate Lair

    Level 3 (Locked) - Locate Behemoth

    Note: At the nearest town, one may come across a vendor who can furnish them with a Pathfinder. These creatures, as scouts, offer their services to aid the player on their journey. Through tireless study and investigation, one may unlock the secrets of the Pathfinder''s levels and harness their full potential.

    "Whoa, I had no idea there would be a bestiary with things to unlock," Roh exclaimed in surprise, his eyes lighting up with excitement, "This is amazing news! As a completionist, I can''t wait to unlock every single item in the bestiary."

    As he turned the page, he noticed the dwarf''s first contribution, an introduction to the fabled "Age of the Behemoths." There, at the top of the page, was the name of the first behemoth to grace its pages, written in bold lettering: the Zulgarn. Roh gazed upon the artwork, marveling at the detail and skill evident in each line and stroke.

    The Zulgarn behemoth was a creature unlike any other, a fusion of fierce grace and armored might. Captured in a breathtaking image drawn in deep, rich yellow ochre, the behemoth dominated the page with its powerful presence.

    Its fur was a tawny gold, each strand etched in yellow ochre with intricate detail that seemed to ripple in the wind. The massive head of the beast was dominated by a pair of piercing yellow eyes, set beneath a heavy brow ridge. A jagged row of teeth glinted in the light, each one as long as a hunter''s hand and sharp as a dagger.

    The body of the Zulgarn was a marvel of nature, its massive legs ending in powerful paws that could crush a man with a single blow. Its spine was covered in a thick layer of bony plates, each one overlapping like the scales of a dragon, providing a nearly impenetrable defense against the claws and teeth of its enemies.

    But it was the tail of the Zulgarn that truly set it apart, a massive club covered in wicked spikes that could shatter stone and snap steel. The artist had captured the movement of the tail, showing the energy and power of the beast as it prepared to strike.

    Every detail of the Zulgarn was rendered with care and precision, from the slant of its eyes to the curve of its claws. It was a work of art that spoke to the heart of the hunter, capturing the raw power and majesty of one of the greatest beasts to ever roam the land.

    A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    The script that followed was a testament to the dwarves'' mastery of their craft, a fitting beginning to his journey into the unknown.

    Zulgarn Description:

    The Zulgarn behemoth is a force of nature, inspiring both awe and terror with its fluid movements. It prowls the land with the predatory grace, its head low and its eyes scanning for prey. As a solitary hunter, it roams the wilderness alone but when confronted by a worthy opponent, it unleashes its full wrath, battering with its massive tail and crushing with its armored feet.

    Its temperament is mercurial, with a fiery spirit that can be roused to rage with a single misstep. As a creature of passion, its moods are changeable like the winds. When calm, it radiates power and grace, but when provoked, it becomes a whirlwind of destruction. Despite its fearsome reputation, the Zulgarn is also a creature of remarkable intelligence, a cunning hunter that tracks its prey over vast distances and relies on both strength and cunning. When it finally closes in for the kill, it is a predator at the top of its game, inspiring fear and reverence in all who behold it.

    The dwarf''s eyes gleamed with wisdom as he spoke, his voice deep and rumbling like the thunder of a mountain storm."The deeper you delve into the secrets of the wilds and the mysteries of the bestiary, the richer the bounty of knowledge you will uncover. This understanding will become your most valuable weapon as you embark on your hunts, shaping you into a hunter unmatched."

    ¡°And so, young traveler, your journey begins with a task befitting one of your station. The scholars of the land seek knowledge of the Zulgarn, a creature of formidable reputation, and it falls to you to seek out its traces and bring back what you may find. May the wind be at your back and your heart be stout, for this is but the first step on the path to greatness."

    Main Quest - Zulgarn of the Primal Lands

    The knowledge seekers of the realm have issued a call to all adventurers to gather information on a formidable creature known as the Zulgarn. Your task is to venture into the wild and gather any physical evidence of the beast, such as fur, footprints, or any other trace it may leave behind.

    Objective: Collect Traces of a Zulgarn 0/3

    Location: Undiscovered

    Recommended Level: 1

    Conditions: None

    Failure Conditions: None

    Rewards:

    500 XP

    100 Gold

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    This is your chance to make a name for yourself as a formidable monster hunter and contribute to the ever-growing body of knowledge in the realm. Good luck, adventurer!"

    Roh rubbed his chin, a smile slowly spreading across his face. "Main Quest: Zulgarn of the Primal Lands," he muttered to himself. ¡°Bring it on! I''m ready to track down this Zulgarn and make a name for myself as a monster hunter."

    Roh¡¯s stomach grumbled aloud.

    ¡°Seems like you have a roaring Wyvern Core inside of you,¡± the hermit jested. ¡°I have some freshly cooked venison and mead for you and you can lay on the extra straw mat on the floor for the night.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s awfully generous of you,¡± Roh replied.

    ¡°Well, I can¡¯t exactly let you die before you¡¯ve completed my quests,¡± the old man laughed as he slapped Roh on the back. ¡°The name¡¯s Tucks by the way.¡±

    ¡°Rohgar,¡± smiled Roh. ¡°Rohgar The Rage to my foes...and Roh to my friends.¡±

    The highlander dwarf gave a warm smile. ¡°Rohgar, don¡¯t let the serene, idyllic setting lull you into a false sense of security."

    Roh returned a smile. ¡°Thanks for the tip. You can call me Roh¡±.

    Achievement unlocked!

    [First Bond] Lv. 1 Bond with Tucks - Friend

    Someone actually likes you.

    Reward: +1 Charisma

    Ooo I can do with the increase in Charisma since it¡¯s one of my weaker stats. Oblivious to the game notification as it was only displayed on Roh¡¯s periphery, Tucks continued, ¡°Well then Roh, you need to be prepared for anything out there!¡±

 Chapter 4 (Part 1): A Unique Encounter

    As the blue hues of dawn approached, Tucks disturbed Roh''s slumber, eager for him to set forth on the mission to secure a coveted Wyvern Core. Undeterred by the possibility of danger lurking in the shadows, Tucks believed that an early start would provide a greater chance of catching the Wyvern unawares.

    Despite his reservations about the Nagas that may be lurking, Roh trusted Tucks'' optimism.

    As Roh prepared to set out into the frigid mountains, Tucks approached with a bundle in hand. "I have brought you something to keep you warm, lad," the dwarf said, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

    Roh unwrapped the bundle to find a heavy fur cloak, thick insulated trousers, and warm leather gloves. "These will protect you from the bitter winds and cold," Tucks explained. "And I have also included these boots, lined with the softest fur, to keep your feet warm and provide a sure footing on the slippery ice."

    Roh was touched by the dwarf''s thoughtfulness and thanked him, feeling a sense of gratitude for the protection the armor would provide. "But what of my head and neck?" the hunter asked.

    Tucks reached into his pocket and pulled out a hat and scarf, both made from the same heavy fur as the cloak. "Here, lad," he said, "these will keep you warm and protected, even in the harshest of storms. It''s not what it once was, but it¡¯s all I¡¯ve got and at least it''s free hey."

    Worn Frost Fury Armor Set - Uncommon:

    The Frost Fury Armor Set is a must-have for any hunter braving the icy tundras.

    Keeps you warm and protected from the harshest elements.

    When new, the attire is a pale white color, blending in seamlessly with the surrounding snow and ice. However, due to its worn state it is now more yellow in appearance and has therefore reduced its stealth bonus. Its durability has also degraded due to years of use.

    Heavy Fur Cloak: Defense +5, Warmth +10,

    Durability: 10/50

    Thick Insulated Trousers: Defense +3, Warmth +7

    Durability: 6/30

    Warm Leather Gloves: Defense +2, Warmth +5

    Durability: 4/20

    Fur-Lined Boots: Defense +3, Warmth +6, Traction +4

    Durability: 6/30

    Heavy Fur Hat: Defense +2, Warmth +5

    Durability: 4/20

    Warm Scarf: Defense +1, Warmth +4

    Durability: 2/10

    Set Bonus: +12 Stealth (80% reduction)

    Note: Defense refers to the protection provided against physical damage, and Warmth refers to the protection provided against cold. Traction refers to the stability provided on slippery surfaces.

    Roh donned the armor, feeling the warmth seep into his body. Due to his hot-blooded racial trait, he felt his fiery-natured blood course through his veins, causing him to feel an overwhelming warmth that verged on the brink of discomfort. He cast a grateful gaze upon Tucks, who returned the gesture with a pat on the shoulder. The dwarf then reached for the door, speaking in his gruff voice, ¡°You¡¯ll be needing this here torch to help light yer way.¡±

    Roh took the torch.

    On his way out the hut, Tucks grabbed his arm. ¡°Oh and you¡¯ll be needing this too.¡±

    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    Roh turned to look and noticed that he held out a medium-sized, frost coloured satchel composed from Leviathan hide interwoven with Cockatrice bristle. Gryphon down feathers lined the inside. Extremely rare materials to come by and the workmanship is magnificent. This item alone could fetch a tidy fortune if sold to a trader.

    ¡°I noticed ye didn¡¯t have any appropriate inventory to hold the loot,¡± Tucks gleamed. ¡°It''s made to withstand the core''s heat. The Chief Tailor and I go way back.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­ good thinking!¡± Roh responded as he reached out to grab the satchel. ¡°Again, many thanks.¡±

    Heat-Infused Satchel - Legendary

    Legendary satchel made with expert craftsmanship and the finest materials. Used not only to hold and carry its content, but also to heat and protect its precious entity.

    Legendary?! Whoa¡­he must either be crazy or desperate to hand this over to a complete noob. I wonder how much I could get for it. Tucks interrupted Roh¡¯s thoughts, ¡°Now set forth down the mountain pass until you reach the valley, from there follow the river southeast all the way to Wyvern Heights. It will take you three full days to reach your destination. Most of it is trying to get down this steep mountain with all its treacherous slopes.¡±

    Roh¡¯s eyes widened.

    ¡°But don¡¯t worry lad, I have just what ye need, if ye have the gold that is,¡± Tucks ushered Roh to the outside of the hovel. To the back, beneath a wooden shelter, stood an auroch. A large, sturdy animal with a strong, muscular build. Its long, shaggy fur a rich, dark chestnut color, and its large, expressive eyes a deep, soulful brown. The auroch¡¯s long, thick mane ran along its neck and down its back, and it hardly paid much notice of them as it continued to graze from a trough. ¡°She¡¯s all yours for 100 gold pieces.¡± Tucks patted the auroch¡¯s right flank. ¡°Her name¡¯s Noona. She will get ye to Wyvern Height within a day tops. An auroch¡¯s powerful, agile legs are well-suited for carrying riders over rough terrain and despite their size and strength, they are known for their gentle disposition, and are often considered to be one of the most affectionate and loyal of all mounts. You won¡¯t find a more dependable beast in the entire region.¡±

    Awesome a mount right from the beginning of the game! Although, 100 gold pieces is most of my gold. Let me try to haggle the price. Roh took out only half of what was asked. ¡°How about we say 50 gold pieces since I¡¯m doing this quest for you?¡± asked Roh.

    Unsuccessful Bartering Due to low charisma and reputation

    You have earned the flaw: [Stingy] -10% success rate when bartering from now on

    Noona lifted her head to look at Roh, snorted her disapproval and then returned to her grazing. ¡°I still need to make a living, you understand, being a recluse and all,¡± responded Tucks. ¡°And I don¡¯t think Noona appreciates her worth being undervalued. Not a good way to start bonding if you ask me.¡±

    I can¡¯t believe how badly that went down. Guess I have to pay closer attention to my stats. Roh¡¯s cheeks flushed as he handed 100 gold pieces over to Tucks. ¡°Erm, sounds good to me. I¡¯ll take her.¡±

    ¡°Jolly good lad! Great doing business with ye,¡± said Tucks. ¡°Ye will also need this enchanted whistle. Ye can use it whenever ye need to dismiss or summon Noona back to ye. A word of warning to ye, don¡¯t let her run away before dismissing her otherwise she could be lost to you for good. But I trust you won¡¯t let that happen.¡±

    The small, silver whistle was tied onto black string. Roh took the whistle and tied it around his neck.

    [Mount] Obtained

    Auroch - Rare

    An intelligent, domesticated beast local to the area that will make traversing the mountains much faster and easier.

    Achievement unlocked!

    [First Mount] Obtained a new form of transport.

    A less lonely journey with added comfort and speed.

    Reward: +50 Bond with Noona (just enough for her to tolerate you riding her)

    With wary steps, Roh approached his new mount. The auroch had been purchased at a low price and Roh knew she was unhappy about it. He reached out to touch her flank, but she moved away from him, her head held high in defiance. Her anger was palpable, and it made Roh uneasy.

    Despite her rebuffs, Roh persisted, trying to calm the beast with gentle words and strokes. But the auroch would have none of it, snorting and stamping her feet in clear refusal. Roh''s frustration grew, for he had looked forward to riding such a majestic creature.

    With determination, Roh tugged at her reins, attempting to force submission. But the auroch was not so easily tamed, rearing up with flailing hooves, narrowly missing Roh with a kick.

    Tucks, watching from the sidelines, looked at Roh with a mixture of amusement and pity. "She''s not happy with you," he said with a chuckle. Roh felt his face flush with embarrassment. He had paid a good amount for this mount and couldn''t even ride her. He knew he had to gain Noona''s trust to ride her, but it was clear it would not be easy. He decided to give her space and think of a different approach.

    Walking away from the auroch, Roh''s mind was filled with thoughts of how to gain her trust. He knew she was proud and strong, and would not be ridden until she was ready. He couldn''t help but feel a sense of respect for the beast, even if it made his task more difficult. He was determined to find a way to tame the auroch and prove to himself and others that he was a capable rider.

    Tucks walked over to a nearby bucket, "Here, try this. This is her favorite treat, it might make her more willing to accept ye as her rider." He handed Roh the bucket of apples and watched as he offered one to the auroch.

    Roh watched, hopeful, as Noona sniffed the apple, and then began to eat. He used this moment to mount her and despite the rough ride, he managed to control her.

    With farewells said, Roh set forth on his arduous journey down the sharp inclines of the mountain.

 Chapter 4 (Part 2): A Unique Encounter

    The treacherous terrain was filled with steep slopes and hidden pitfalls. Much to the occasional resistance from Noona, Roh had managed to convince his stubborn mount with more apples than he cared to say to travel through the treacherous terrain that was filled with steep slopes and hidden pitfalls. Roh often thought to himself the journey no doubt could have been a lot quicker but he was just grateful the bond between them was growing stronger with every step.

    Finally, they reached the base of the mountain, and Roh could see for miles in every direction. The view was breathtaking, but there was no time to admire it. He knew that there would be many hungry beasts that would love to devour a large meaty auroch, especially a tame one. Noona wouldn¡¯t stand a chance against some wild ferocious creature. The beasts out here are no doubt killing machines. Primal and feral they would slice through Noona like butter. Plus it will give her a chance to rest and replenish her stamina.

    Pulling the small, silver whistle from his neck, Roh blew into it with all his might. The sound echoed across the mountains, and in a flash of light, his auroch mount disappeared, leaving him standing alone.

    He knew that this was the only way to save his mount from the dangers of the wildlife, and he hoped that it would be safe wherever it had gone. He didn¡¯t realize how loud the whistle would be and hoped that he had not alerted any predators. Not used to solo missions, he trekked onward, knowing that he would have to face the challenges ahead on his own.

    ***

    As Roh traveled through the valley, the wind blew directly onto his face. The late morning air, still fresh against his skin. The primordial light exuded a soft, pure, sunny citrus yellow with a mustard-yellow undertone, also emphasizing morning.

    Much to his relief, there was no longer the bitter bite of the cold and he was no longer encompassed by ice as he finally left the unforgiving, snowy landscape behind him.

    With swift grace, he cast aside his heavy fur cloak, thick gloves, and furry hat and scarf, tucking them carefully away within his inventory. A rush of relief flooded him as he shed the oppressively warm layers, reveling in the newfound comfort of his simple linen tunic, trousers, and boots.

    He was attempting to track any fauna in the region, as he had already drank all of the water from his waterskin and eaten all five rations during his long trek down the mountain, which had taken the better part of the morning. The rations had kept his hunger at the default value he initially started the game with, however, being that they were measly little pilchards, in addition to his hunger bane, the hunger was really starting to set in. So glad Tucks was kind enough to offer me a meal last night and that I had those rations from the starting kit otherwise I would have been at 100 Hunger by now and losing HP already.

    The air was thick with the scent of pine and the earthy musk of behemoths as Roh made his way through the primal valley. Roh stood there, mesmerized by the beauty of the game. The world around him felt so real, so alive. Every blade of grass seemed to sway in the wind, each leaf rustled with an almost audible crispness. The colors of the landscape were so vibrant, so rich. The primordial light, shining down through the trees, cast a warm and inviting glow on the world below.

    As he explored this virtual world, Roh was filled with excitement. The game was so immersive, so realistic. He could feel the weight of his axe in his hand, the tension in his muscles as he swung it through the air.

    The immersion was complete, and Roh felt as though he were truly living in this game. He could almost feel the warmth of the primordial light on his skin, and the coolness of the breeze as it whispered through the trees. He could hear the distant calls of birds and the gentle babbling of a nearby stream.

    He couldn''t help but walk with the stride of a seasonal hunter taking him back to his memories from all the years he and his father would spend in the wild in the real world every hunting season. His eyes constantly scanned the dense foliage for any sign of the massive beasts that roamed these lands.

    Roh thought himself a skilled tracker, able to follow the faintest of trails and read the subtle signs left behind by the behemoths. He knew that these creatures were formidable opponents, especially to a level one player without any party members, but he also knew that they were essential to his survival and speedy progression in the game. He could hunt the small critters of the land, however they would barely fill him up especially with his bane. Therefore, if he managed to track and hunt even a relatively small level one behemoth then not only would that fill him up completely, but it would probably also give him a buff and provide a large amount of highly fulfilling rations consisting of large portions. But regardless of just food, he would gain valuable research, a lot of XP, some valuable rewards and not to mention bragging rights. The behemoths provided food, shelter, and resources.

    As he walked, Roh¡¯s senses were heightened, alert for any sign of movement or danger. He listened for the rustle of leaves or the snapping of twigs, and he used his keen eyesight to search for any indication of the behemoths'' presence.

    The primal valley was a wondrous place, filled with hidden dangers at every turn. In addition to the behemoths, there were also all sorts of exotic flora and fauna that could pose a threat to him. There were vines that could strangle and suffocate, plants that exuded poisonous fumes, and all sorts of venomous creatures that lurked in the shadows.

    But Roh was not too bothered. His character build was tanky. A fierce warrior, with large muscles and therefore great strength and constitution. He carried his axe at his side.

    As he made his way deeper into the valley, Roh began to pick up the faint scent of the behemoths. It was a complex aroma, intertwining the earthy musk of damp soil after a rainstorm with the heavier, almost metallic tang of wild, primal fur. This scent was layered with subtle undertones of the surrounding vegetation, a hint of green freshness mingled with the richness of decaying leaves, suggesting the behemoths'' path through dense foliage and overgrown trails.

    He knew that he was getting close, and he quickened his pace, his heart racing with excitement and anticipation.

    After carefully tracking, darting through the varied terrain, guided by the increasingly distinct tracks and scents, he at last glimpsed the behemoth. It loomed into view between the dense thicket of trees. It was a massive creature, standing nearly twenty feet tall and covered in thick, shaggy fur. Its eyes gleamed with intelligence, and its tusks were long and sharp.

    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Roh knew that he had to be careful. The behemoth was an intimidating opponent, and he couldn''t afford to make any mistakes. He slowly and quietly approached the beast, trying to stay downwind so as not to alert it to his presence.

    He heard a ding sound and then a prompt appeared.

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    New Skill Unlocked

    Gained Skill: [Tracking Lv1]

    New Passive Ability - [Scent Radius Reduction Lv1]: +5 Stealth - from now on your scent radius has reduced thereby increasing your stealth.

    (Gained from tracking a monster correctly upwind with your scent hidden so that you do not alarm the local fauna.)

    As he closed the prompt, he crept through the dense underbrush. He tried his best to keep his footsteps light and his breathing quiet. He had been tracking this behemoth for quite some time, and he knew that just one wrong move could alert the massive beast to his presence.

    Roh was so focused on his pursuit that he didn''t even notice the dry twig that snapped under his boot until it was too late. Suddenly, the behemoth let out a deafening bellow and charged off through the forest, crashing through the trees and bushes as it fled.

    Roh cursed himself for his mistake as he watched the behemoth disappear into the distance. He had worked so hard to get this close to the creature, and now it was gone in an instant. He knew that he had lost his chance at a successful hunt, and he trudged onwards, disappointed and dejected.

    As he walked, he noticed that warmth enveloped him and lush green fields extended in all directions with a variety of trees that dotted the land. Some of these trees bore a resemblance to trees he had seen in the real world such as Elm, Beech and Birch, however, others were unique looking trees that he had never seen before. One such tree that caught his attention, had a dark blue trunk with a metallic, almost oily sheen. Its scaled bark resembled that of a blue beetle¡¯s carapace. It felt cool and smooth to the touch. Although, the most captivating thing about it was its shimmering, cobalt leaves. Roh couldn¡¯t help but pick one in case he needed it for crafting.

    Cobalt Leaf - Rare

    This leaf originates from the Beetle Sycamore. A highly valued material with many uses: cooking, alchemy and dyes.

    Nice one! Roh picked another four which filled up his limited inventory. The leaves replaced the rations he originally carried. For leaves, they were pretty heavy. Perhaps they didn¡¯t simply appear metallic, but instead consisted of metal.

    New Skill Unlocked

    Gained Skill: [Foraging Lv1]

    New Passive Ability ¨C [Forager Experience Boost Lv1]: +25% XP bonus from foraging flora.

    (Gained from searching and obtaining food or provisions.)

    Sweet¡­every bit helps. Now to take a further look round. It was so tranquil save for the burbling and babbling of the wide, fast-flowing river snaking through the center of the trees like a water serpent moving swiftly past all obstacles. Having filled up his waterskin, he mostly followed the river to avoid getting lost through some of the denser area of trees.

    DISCOVERED NEW LOCATION: CARAGARD VALLEY

    Followed by a ding sound and another prompt.

    Level Up! You are now level 2.

    Title: Almost a hunter.

    You still need to actually hunt a creature.

    Max HP +10

    Max Stamina +5

    Two stat points gained.

    Sassy AI with your sarcastic prompts. Guess I can¡¯t be too bothered since I just leveled up and gained some points. I will add one point to my abilities and the other to my skills.

    As Roh gazed at the ability point text for a few seconds, another prompt appeared with all of Roh¡¯s initial starting stats for his secondary attributes.

    Secondary Attributes:

    Strength [9]

    Endurance [4]

    Agility [0]

    Intellect [6]

    Charisma [4]

    I¡¯ll add it to agility since that is currently my lowest attribute.

    Roh closed the current prompt and focussed his attention on the previous one. With a fixed look at the skill point text, another prompt appeared with a skill tree displaying the three unique paths available to him.

    Skill Tree:

    [Passage of Pain] ¨C A lingering pain from past wrongs, you are afflicted internally by your memories and find resolve by releasing your pent up fury during combat.

    [Passage of Primal Spirit] ¨C A virtue by nature, you are given the gift to commune with your surroundings.

    [Passage of Passion] ¨C A synergy of raw emotion and pervasive enchantment, you are shown the way of the Fey.

    I could place skill points in two or even all three passages as I progress. That would give me versatility, but then I won¡¯t be able to fully master a passage so I¡¯m going to pick ¡®Passage of Pain¡¯ as it augments my background perfectly. I will put the skill point into the first available tier slot.

    Reckless Assault

    You disregard any semblance of focus and attack haphazardly, dealing 100% increased attack damage at a cost of 10 HP.

    Woohoo, progress! Level 20 here I come! Speaking of which¡­. I¡¯m not actually sure what the level cap is in the full game? Whatever it is, I hope to be there in no time. He closed the prompts and scouted his surroundings.

    Behind him, which lay to the north, rose Na¡¯rok Village with its white-tinged peaks in the distance and at the furthest reaches before him arose the sharp, reddish, stony peaks of Wyvern Heights.

    I need to travel further southeast in order to reach Wyvern Heights as Tucks had mentioned. I¡¯m going to need my mount to get there quicker. She has surely recovered her energy by now and having scouted the area, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s too dangerous, especially since it''s midday when most beasts are resting and trying to avoid the heat. Plus I feel like I have put enough distance between myself and the behemoths.

    He stopped, took a deep breath and blew into the small, silver whistle around his neck. This time making sure not to blow too hard like before. As safe as this area seems, I don¡¯t want to take any chances. The shrill sound cut through the silence of the forest. He waited, listening for any sign that his mount had heard the call. After a few moments, he heard the sound of hooves pounding against the earth, and he grinned in relief as his auroch burst through the trees.

    Noona came charging in, her head held high and her tail swishing back and forth. She was moving at such a fast pace that Roh could see nothing but a blur as she charged towards him.

    He started to backpedal, but it was too late. Noona reached him and knocked him over, sending him sprawling on the ground. Roh lay there, dazed and confused, wondering if it was her way of getting back at him. He got up and brushed himself off, still hurting from being knocked over but more so from his ego.

 Chapter 4 (Part 3): A Unique Encounter

    Roh pressed forward with renewed determination, his heart set on the capture of the wyvern and the retrieval of its coveted core. His quest consumed his every thought, and he pushed through the gnawing ache of hunger that gnarled at his stomach. He was driven to succeed at all costs.

    Forget food right now. I need to find that wyvern so I can complete the quest. I need to power level my character!

    As he looked around, he noticed a set of tracks at the edge of the riverbank. Crouching, he pressed his hand into the soil next to the tracks. His hand sunk in effortlessly. The soil practically swallowed his hand as it squelched beneath.

    He noticed that the print was not very different to the one he had just made. The tracks have very sharp edges which means these tracks are fresh. The owner of these prints could not have left this area long ago. I can track them down.

    As he began to follow the tracks a callout appeared.

    Skill Level Up! Tracking Lv2

    New Active Ability ¨C [Identify Species Lv1]

    You can use this ability to identify any species. However, this will only assess and display basic information and difficulty level. Further research, development and progression is required for higher tier info.

    Main Quest Updated!

    Objective: Collect Traces of a Zulgarn 1/3

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    BESTIARY

    Discoveries 1%

    Behemoths

    Unlocked! Research Level 1 - Basic Info & Difficulty Level

    Roh''s face lit up with a grin of satisfaction. This new ability is great! It will definitely give me an edge when hunting behemoths.

    After perusing the prompts, Roh opened his Bestiary. Sweet! Now that I¡¯ve unlocked the first research level, I can find out more info on the Zulgarn. As the pages of the bestiary tome turned, the air around Roh seemed to grow thick and heavy. Suddenly, the page on the Zulgarn appeared before him, and he found himself transfixed by the sight before him.

    At first, the section below the description seemed blank, but then tiny particles of charcoal began to coalesce in the air, swirling and dancing like a swarm of bees. Slowly, the particles gathered together, forming a dense fog that hung over the page like a veil.

    The details of the Behemoth were rendered in exquisite detail, every wrinkle and fold of its skin captured in stunning accuracy. Its massive jaws hung open, revealing rows of razor-sharp teeth, and its tail lashed out, sending the particles of charcoal scattering across the page like sparks.

    As Roh gazed upon the image before him, it was as if the Behemoth had been brought to life, its very essence seeping from the page and filling the air around him.

    Zulgarn - Epic - Level 10 (Difficulty Heroic)

    The Zulgarn is a highly intelligent and formidable alpha beast of the wilds, known for its incredible strength, nimble nature and ferocious instincts. It is adapted to hunt in low light conditions.

    Its snout is broad and strong, with powerful jaws that can crush through the toughest armor. Its eyes are piercing and intense, with a golden hue that seems to glow with an inner fire. Its ears are tall and perked, always alert for the slightest sound that might indicate danger.

    The teeth of this creature are razor-sharp, perfect for tearing through the flesh of its enemies. Its body is massive and well-muscled, with legs that are both powerful and nimble, allowing it to sprint across the battlefield at incredible speeds. Its fur is thick and shaggy, providing excellent insulation against the cold, while its back and tail are covered in bony plates that protect it from attacks.

    The back of this creature is broad and strong, with powerful muscles that allow it to carry heavy loads and deliver devastating blows with its spiked tail. The tail itself is long and flexible, perfect for delivering sweeping blows and knocking down enemies. Whether it is charging into battle or simply moving with grace and power, the dire Zulgarn hybrid is a truly awe-inspiring sight to behold.

    Species: Beast

    Element Affinity: Terra Luna

    Strain: Gen 1 (Critically Endangered)

    Role: Alpha of a pack - usually wanders alone.

    Strengths: High Intelligence, Keen Senses, High Agility & Incredible Strength

    Resistances: Psionic, Blizzard & Umbra

    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.

    As he read through the detailed description, Roh''s heart began to race with excitement. The Zulgarn was truly a marvel of nature, with its massive body and razor-sharp teeth. He could almost feel the power emanating from the pages, and he shivered with anticipation.

    "Wow," he murmured to himself, tracing his fingers over the intricate illustrations that accompanied the text. "This creature is truly incredible."

    The rush of the river beside him seemed to echo the power he felt emanating from the page. He closed his eyes and imagined what it would be like to come face-to-face with a Zulgarn in the wild.

    Suddenly, he could see it in his mind''s eye - the creature''s piercing golden eyes and broad, strong snout. Its fur was thick and shaggy, and Roh could almost feel the texture under his fingers.

    He opened his eyes, a wide smile spreading across his face. "I have to see this creature for myself," he said aloud. "I need to know more."

    Roh continued reading, taking note of the Zulgarn''s strengths and resistances, imagining how he could use this knowledge to his advantage if he ever encountered the beast.

    With a newfound sense of purpose, he closed the Bestiary and stood up from the riverbank. He began to follow the trail of tracks that he had spotted earlier, pulling Noona''s lead for her to follow behind him.

    The earth beneath his boots was soft and muddy. He took a deep breath, trying to pick up the scent of his quarry, but all he could smell was the musty, earthy aroma of the riverbank and the less-than-pleasant smell of his new traveling companion.

    Further down the trail, he caught sight of movement within the underbrush. A flicker of orange feathers. Barely visible, Roh attempted to discern what the peculiar-looking creature concealed among the bushes, entangled in branches and leaves, was. Noting its odd, spindly shape and the tiny beak protruding, Roh whispered to himself, "Is that a... bird?" If it is, it''s certainly unlike any bird I have ever seen before.

    With his rudimentary War axe, Roh crept closer towards the bush. Lifting the axe above his head, with both arms, he took a step forward when his foot crunched on some twigs alerting the hidden creature. Gah not again! The beast''s head emerged from under the leaves, its massive and bulbous eyes fixed upon Roh. It opened its tiny beak, far too small for its large face and let out a loud, ear-piercing screech, flapping its wings wildly as it darted around in a frenzy of panic and terror. Roh stood there, wide-eyed and shaken, as he beheld the creature. Its body was covered in shimmering, iridescent feathers that seemed to shift and change color with every movement. Its pitiful, sharp beak remained open wide as it continued to screech and shriek.

    Despite its bizarre and erratic behavior, the creature seemed to possess supernatural grace and agility, moving with a fluidity and speed that seemed almost unnatural and impressive. It was a truly bizarre and unsettling sight, one that left all those who witnessed it feeling a mix of confusion and fear.

    How is such a loud sound coming from such a small beak?!? Roh instinctively dropped the axe and covered his ears with both his hands. Noona on the other hand just looked confused as she rotated her head slightly and stared blankly at this odd, new creature.

    Usually most mounts would spook and run off easily especially aurochs, but luckily for Roh, Noona remained unaffected. Aurochs are intelligent beasts using facial recognition to identify new creatures they encounter. I remember watching it on a nature documentary on TV. Even though this is a game, I remember the developers saying on a trailer that this game would incorporate realism in everything even down to the fine details so I wonder whether she has established that it¡¯s not a threat or maybe it¡¯s her demeanor. Just a really chilled out auroch. Could even be that she was so well trained and domesticated that she is so used to the local fauna in these parts and desensitized to their eccentricities and quirks.

    A prompt appeared.

    New Skill Unlocked

    Gained Skill: [Beast Bond Lv1]

    New Active Ability - [Calm Emotions Lv1]: From now on you can calm any tamed creature i.e. either a mount, pet, familiar, summon or companion.

    Cooldown Time: 3 hours

    (Gained from bonding with any tamed creature i.e. either a mount, pet, familiar, summon or companion.)

    ¡°Gah, Well that¡¯s not going to help me with this wild creature!¡±

    Interrupting his perusal of the prompt, the odd looking animal burst forth out of the bushes flapping hysterically.

    As he closed the prompt and backed up out of the way, the creature first dashed away from him then towards him almost knocking into him all the while still screaming. It looked as if it didn¡¯t know which way to go.

    Since he had a very slim chance of hunting this beast, now that it had been alerted, Roh decided to use his new skill [Identify Species] to find out more useful information on it.

    Yawper - Common - Level 1 (Difficulty Easy)

    Derived from the non-flying avian species, the Yawper is an unintelligent bird-like creature that panics whenever they are alerted to any disturbances within their close vicinity. Once panicked they will run around like a headless chicken yawping hysterically, hence their name. This tends to last¡­ far too long.

    Species: Non-flying Avian

    Element Affinity: Neutral

    Strain: Gen 15 (Thriving/bountiful)

    Role: Shrieker - alerts others of threats

    Strengths: Screeching deters most predators

    Resistances: None

    It seemed to Roh that there were a few new additions to a creature¡¯s stats that were not in the beta version of the game. Seems now that the creatures in the game have different strains and rarity. Roh shrugged, not fully understanding the impact that they would have on the game.

    Meanwhile the Yawper continued to run around him, dashing one direction and then back another. Its gangly neck bending backwards as it ran forth still screeching relentlessly. It eventually decided to stick to one direction and the screeching began to fade.

    Then silence. The creature was gone and with it, its infernal panicked scream.

    Finally I can think again. Roh stopped holding his ears not remembering what he was currently doing before encountering this monstrosity.

    But not a moment too soon, Roh¡¯s mouth dropped open slightly and his eyes narrowed as he winced. For what started off as a faint, distant buzz grew into the familiar high-pitched, annoying shriek.

    ¡°No!¡± shouted Roh as the Yawper returned. However, it did not return alone. It brought company.

    A much larger, lizard-like beast with a sharp horn at its front followed some 30 feet behind it. The Yawper¡¯s loud screams must have alerted this predator and yet again it was running for its life.

    Great¡­the damn stupid bird thing is going to get me killed.

 Chapter 5 (Part 1): First Blood

    Roh''s heart pounded in his chest as he forced his legs to pump faster. Glancing over his shoulder, he barely caught sight of the pursuing predator lunging at him before he veered sharply to the right, sending a spray of pebbles in his wake. His instincts screamed at him - this wasn''t supposed to be happening, not to a level two player. Am I out of my depth?

    Raw terror seized him, every instinct screaming at him to run faster. Roh was not equipped for a fight, not this early in the game, and certainly not with whatever monstrosity was on his tail. The gnarled trees of the dense forest seemed to bend menacingly towards him, obscuring his view, and the undergrowth tangled around his ankles as if conspiring to trip him.

    Frantically, he tried to recall the basic survival strategies he''d learned from past games. Keep calm, maintain a clear head, use the environment to your advantage. The principles seemed laughably abstract in the face of real danger.

    Suddenly, he stumbled over a hidden tree root, crashing to the ground. Panic clawed at his mind. He scrambled back to his feet, fueled by raw adrenaline, and pushed himself to run faster, darting between trees and hopping over gnarled roots and rocks.

    His breaths came in ragged gasps, his heart pounding a frantic tattoo against his ribs. In all the games I¡¯ve played, they ease you in. Have you grind on some low level mobs first. Man, it feels like I''ve been thrown into the deep end way too soon. Here I am, just starting out, expecting a chill intro to the game, and bam ¨C it''s like I''m suddenly facing boss-level challenges. Definitely not the welcome party I was hoping for. My journey''s barely kicked off, and I''m already getting a taste of the madness. But you know what? It''s these insane, out-of-nowhere encounters that really push your skills to the limit. So, I''m just gonna keep at it, level up, and pretty soon, this whole "dance with death" thing will just be another part of the adventure.

    He knew he had to keep moving, despite the protest of his burning lungs and aching muscles.While his decent stamina held up against the grueling pace, his low agility betrayed him in this wild terrain. Roh was all too aware that his actions were clumsy, his desperate evasion lacked the nimble footwork that might save him from the snapping jaws that lurked just a hair''s breadth away. A grim realization struck him. If I can¡¯t outmaneuver this creature, my adventure will end before it even truly begins.

    Amidst the chaos, Roh noticed through the dense undergrowth that Noona was keeping stride with him, her wide eyes reflecting his own fear. The monstrous creature was hot on their trail, but they''d managed to put some distance between themselves and their predator.

    However, the shrill, frantic shrieking of the Yawper behind them was threatening to attract more unwanted attention. Roh needed to act quickly. He had to calm Noona down before she spooked and ran off, leaving him stranded, and then he had to deal with the Yawper.

    Summoning up all his courage, Roh activated his [Calm Emotions] ability, reaching out and gently touching Noona''s coarse fur. "Easy, girl," he whispered, locking eyes with her, trying to communicate his assurance. His heart pounded in his chest, but he forced his voice to stay steady, "I''ve got you."

    He saw a change in her demeanor. Her eyes softened, her tense muscles relaxed, and she snorted softly, a sign of trust and understanding. With Noona settled, he now had to turn his attention to the still shrieking Yawper.

    In the midst of his panic and fear, Roh decided to take a leap of faith and try out his new combat skill - [Reckless Assault]. Clenching his fists, he turned to the Yawper, his movements uncoordinated but determined. The first punch sailed harmlessly past the creature''s face, the second punch mirrored the first. But the third, that one found its mark, landing right between the Yawper''s frantic eyes.

    Although the Yawper took damage, Roh was not successful in knocking it unconscious nor did the hits make the Yawper silent. Instead, the Yawper shrieked three octaves higher. This incensed the lizard-like beast further. It roared and pushed onward with more intensity.

    Barely a scratch. Can¡¯t believe I risked 10HP for nothing and I¡¯ve just made things even worse. Roh thought about running but remembered his low agility so he decided to hide behind a briar thicket being careful not to injure himself on the dense, thorny shrubs.

    Noona now stood her ground in defiance. I can¡¯t watch this. Roh closed his eyes. Please don¡¯t eat my mount. I know whistling will draw the lizard beast directly towards me, but I can¡¯t just sit around and do nothing. Roh fumbled for the whistle around his neck, but when he blew it, it made no sound.

    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.

    Summon/Dismiss Mount: Cooldown active. You cannot use this ability for another 5 minutes.

    Fuck no!

    Roh beheld a most curious spectacle as the Yawper creature, with plumage askew and flapping wildly, led the predator away from him with its frantic yawping and comical, panicked gait. The Yawper''s actions were nonsensical, yet somehow it commanded the attention of the massive beast with a strange and inexplicable authority. As Roh followed, he noticed that the Yawper would occasionally dart close to the behemoth''s face, almost as if teasing it. Then, it dawned on him - the Yawper was leading the lizard beast on a chase, using its small size and quick movements to tantalize the beast with the promise of a tasty little morsel. Roh couldn''t decide if the Yawper was incredibly brave or incredibly foolish. This weird lifeform had tenacity, cunning and some crazy survival skills.

    "Thank you, odd critter, thank you!" Roh exclaimed breathlessly, eyes wide with disbelief. The Yawper, having completed its unexpected rescue, vanished as quickly as it had appeared. A surge of gratitude flooded him, not just for his own life, but also for Noona''s. A wave of relief washed over him, cooling the panic that had set his thoughts ablaze just moments ago. Losing Noona now was unthinkable, especially when they were just beginning to build a bond, not to mention the substantial amount of coin he''d spent on her.

    Yet, as the relief gradually faded, a troubling thought began to take root. His victory, if it could be called that, was delivered by a birdbrain, of all creatures. "How am I ever going to earn a place among the legends if I can''t even fend for myself?" He mumbled to the silent forest around him. His friends'' laughter seemed to ring in his ears. Arkie, in particular, would never let him live this down.

    But now was not the time to wallow in self-pity. With a heavy sigh, Roh shook off his insecurities, adjusting his grip on Noona''s reins. "Alright, girl, let''s press on," he murmured, directing the mount towards the forest''s unexplored depths.

    The passage from the woodland''s outskirts to the labyrinth of undergrowth was an abrupt, harsh leap into an unforgiving wild. They were thrust from the relative openness of the forest edge into a wild, dense tangle of briars and thorns. The forest seemed to close in around them, the thorny tendrils tearing relentlessly at Roh''s clothes and scraping his skin. Yet, despite the harsh conditions, Noona maneuvered through the challenging terrain with an ease that surprised Roh, her demeanor all the while calm.

    Roh pressed onward, propelled by the knowledge that the forest''s heart held precious resources. It was a lure he couldn''t resist, a beacon amidst the brambles, worth every thorn-riddled obstacle they faced.

    Roh emerged from the dense thicket, his breath ragged and his body drenched in sweat. But as he surveyed the ominous shadows cast by the towering trees, and the twisted maze of underbrush, a sense of belonging washed over him. This wild and untamed land felt like home, and he couldn''t help but feel a sense of peace, as if he had always been meant to be here. Even in this virtual world, nature''s beauty had the power to soothe the soul.

    As Roh and Noona made their way through the dense forest, Roh noticed a strange rustling in the underbrush. At first, he thought it might be a wild animal, but as he cautiously approached, he saw a docile creature unlike any he had ever encountered before.

    The creature that emerged from the thicket was a work of art, exuding a wild and regal presence that ensnared the senses. Its fur was a luxurious, russet hue that shone in the primordial light, and its tail twitched with intrigue as it gazed upon the world. Its form was slender and nimble, slipping through the underbrush with a gait as graceful as a whisper.

    But it was the creature''s neck that truly set it apart. Serpentine and mesmerizing, it swayed with a beguiling grace. Upon this noble neck sat its head, a fox-like visage with a longer snout and big, expressive eyes that seemed to see all, taking in the world with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Its ears were adorned with delicate fronds that rustled in the wind, adding an ethereal touch to its appearance.

    With a curious grace, it moved, its head always scanning, as if in search of something unknown. Its fur rippled in the light and its tail flicked back and forth, adding rhythm to its movements. It was a creature of unmatched beauty, a true marvel in this primal world.

    A vision of ethereal grace, it glided silently through the forest, its eyes like twin orbs of amber that seemed to glow with an inner light. They held a serene wisdom, hinting at its gentle nature. The creature was peaceful, its presence bringing calm to its surroundings. But its strength was hidden, a power that belied its docile appearance. Its eyes watched everything with a sense of wonder. It was a creature of balance, existing in harmony with the world.

    The sight before him was serene, almost sacred. He felt a new sense of appreciation for this world, a shift in perspective from seeing it as merely a battleground.

    A protective instinct welled up within him as a predator''s snarl echoed in the distance. But instead of drawing his weapon, he found himself watching as the creature''s ears twitched, its form melting back into the underbrush with a fluid grace. His gaze, once narrowed in anticipation of the next attack, now opened to the wondrous beauty around him. He wasn''t just surviving in this game; he was living.

    Roh was enamored with the creature, different from the fierce beasts he was used to hunting."This is next-level stuff..." Roh muttered to himself, blown away by the realism. He felt a sudden urge to protect it, knowing it was no match for the forest''s predators. But, he also knew that if the game was modeling the real world then it was probably a crucial part of the ecosystem. With reverence, Roh let the gentle creature graze in peace and continued on his quest for valuable provisions. This world, once a battleground, was now an ecosystem he was a part of, a balance he needed to maintain.

    He treaded softly through the forest, shrouded in mist, his hand at the ready near the hilt of his blade. Despite his newfound appreciation for the world around him, he was keenly aware of the ever-present dangers. His peace now coexisted with vigilance, a delicate balance he was learning to maintain.

    The earthy, pine-scented air clogged his nostrils, and his steps were the only sounds to break the silence, the leaves crunching underfoot. A sudden rustling, different from before, snapped him to attention. This was a sound steeped in threat, a predatory signal. His grip tightened on the hilt of his blade, eyes alert, scanning the surroundings.

    As he stood, tense and vigilant, the rustling grew stronger and closer. He felt a gaze upon him, unseen eyes piercing into his soul. Then, with a deafening roar, the monster sprang from the shadows.

    It was a fearsome beast, with iridescent scales and claws sharp as razors. Its eyes gleamed with malevolent cunning, its jaws baring rows of jagged teeth. Roh¡¯s heart pounded in his chest as he faced off against the creature, knowing that this was a fight to the death. I really wish the Yawper was here right now!

    He could feel the icy grip of fear clutching at his heart, but he pushed it aside and stood his ground, determined to take down this predator or die trying.

 Chapter 5 (Part 2): First Blood

    Roh stood his ground as the predator charged at him, its roar echoing through the forest. He steeled himself for the attack, but at the last moment, his foot caught on a hidden root and he stumbled, falling to the ground.

    The predator seized its opportunity, leaping at him with its razor-sharp claws extended. Roh rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding being impaled, but the creature''s claws still raked across his chest, leaving deep gashes in their wake. Roh gritted his teeth against the pain and struggled to his feet, determined to take down this beast. He could feel the blood dripping from his wounds, but he refused to let it slow him down.

    Roh stumbled through the dense underbrush, his low agility causing him to trip over roots and brush. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he tried to keep up with the agile creature darting through the forest.

    Suddenly, the creature turned on him, snarling and baring its teeth. Roh froze. The creature lunged at him, its claws raking across his chest and leaving deep gashes in his skin.

    Roh fell to his knees. He had become acutely aware of the gulf between his abilities and the creature''s lightning-quick agility. The bitter taste of impending defeat clouded his senses, reality hitting him harder than any adversary could.

    The beast, now perched on a jutting outcrop of rock, was a cruel silhouette against the forest backdrop. Its heaving sides gleamed with a dangerous allure under the fading sunlight, and its steely eyes regarded Roh with a predatory interest that was chilling. It appeared to be patient, its body coiled with the promise of explosive movement, like a tempest waiting for the opportune moment to unleash its wrath once more. In its piercing gaze, Roh could see the glint of calculating savagery, a promise of the impending carnage.

    Roh, clutching his chest, could feel the heat of his own blood seeping through his fingers and his hopes dwindling. His heart hammered against his chest wall, each beat an echoing reminder of his mortality in this game. But he knew that he had to move. To stay meant certain death. Mustering the last vestiges of his energy, he sprang into action. A dance of survival commenced, with Roh darting, twisting, and pirouetting through the underbrush, evading the beast''s subsequent charges.

    The untamed, wild environment felt eerily calm, indifferent to his struggle for survival. Noona was engrossed in her own world, placidly munching on a cluster of leaves. Her obliviousness to his perilous situation was a harsh reminder of his solitude in this game.

    However, as the rhythm of the fight wore him thin, Noona paused her meal. Her massive eyes, akin to two dark orbs in the golden sunlight, drifted towards Roh. Their gaze met in a brief moment of understanding. Her normally tranquil demeanor transformed, a mighty bellow echoing from her, the sound reverberating through the dense woodland, startling not only Roh but the predator as well.

    The beast paused, its focus fractured by the unexpected sound. Its deadly glare, moments ago focused solely on Roh, now locked onto the auroch. This slight deviation, the split-second distraction, was the opportunity Roh desperately needed.

    The resonance of his battle cry mingled with the fading echo of Noona''s bellow. He harnessed the surge of adrenaline, lunging forward with an unprecedented ferocity. His blade found its mark, piercing the heart of the beast, ending the life-or-death struggle.

    The creature let out a final, pitiful cry before collapsing to the ground. Roh stood panting over the beast, his chest heaving and his knife slick with blood. He let out a sigh of relief, his heart still racing. Despite his wounds, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of triumph.

    He knew that it had been a close call, but he had triumphed over the odds and emerged as the hunter, not the prey. However, he had been lucky this time and he knew he couldn''t count on luck every time. He needed to work on his agility if he wanted to survive future encounters in the wild.

    It wasn''t until the fight was over and her rider emerged victorious that the auroch finally took notice. She looked up from her grazing, her big brown eyes curious as she gazed at her rider and the lifeless predator at his feet.

    Roh chuckled tiredly and patted the auroch''s neck, grateful for her help during the crisis. He knew that he had been lucky to come out of the encounter alive, and he was thankful to have the steadfast auroch by his side.

    "Hey, just wanted to give you a shout out for what you did back there. That predator was no joke, and I don''t know if I could''ve taken it down alone. You really saved my ass," Roh said, patting his muscular friend on the back.

    Noona snorted and shook her head, as if to say "it was no big deal".

    Roh continued, "Look, I know things got a little tense between us after I lowballed you on the price, but I didn''t mean to disrespect you. I''m just a gamer always looking to save a buck. But I realize now that I messed up, and I''m sorry."

    The auroch met his gaze, her big brown eyes showing a mix of skepticism and understanding.

    "You know, I''ve come to appreciate you a lot more than just a mount. You''re like a teammate to me, and I value your presence on this journey. We may have had some bumps in the road, but I think we make a pretty badass duo. What do you say, partner?"

    The auroch let out a low rumble and nudged Roh with her head.

    Congratulations! Your bond with your auroch mount has reached a new level!

    Looks like you two have come a long way from that awkward first meeting when you tried to haggle for a lower price. Who knew that all it took was a little bit of adventure, a few close calls, and a whole lot of mutual respect to bring you two together?

    Your bond is now stronger than ever, and you can count on your auroch to have your back no matter what. Just try not to get too sappy on each other, okay? After all, there are still 9 levels of bonding left to go.

    But hey, when the going gets tough and the tough get going, it''s always nice to have a trusty mount by your side. Here''s to you and your auroch, may your bond continue to grow stronger with each passing day.

    Roh let out a triumphant cheer as he read the notification on his screen, a huge grin spreading across his face. "Yeah, we did it!" he exclaimed, throwing his arms up in the air. "We''re bonded! Nothing can stand in our way now!"

    But he also couldn''t help but feel a sense of annoyance at the witty comments included in the notification. He appreciated a good joke as much as the next guy, but sometimes he just wanted to be recognized for his achievements without the snarky asides.

    Congratulations! You have finally killed your first prey and have officially achieved the rank of ¡°Actual Hunter¡±!

    No longer will you be the awkward, bumbling beginner that everyone would pity. You are now a full-fledged hunter, to be feared and respected by all. Okay, maybe you''re still a little green behind the ears, but hey, everyone has to start somewhere. And let''s be real, that first kill is always the hardest. But now that you''ve got it under your belt, there''s no telling what you''ll be capable of. Just try not to let it go to your head, okay? Remember, with great power comes lots of dirt, sweat, and gore. But hey, it''s a small price to pay for all that sweet, sweet loot and bragging rights. Here''s to you, the newest hunter in the land. May your hunts be plentiful and your prey be...prey-like. Just try not to get too cocky, okay? After all, there are still bigger and badder beasts out there, waiting for their chance to take you down. But hey, that''s what makes it all worth it, right? So go out there and make your mark.

    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    He rolled his eyes at the sarcastic asides. He was either getting desensitized to them or they were possibly even growing on him as he was almost expecting them, perhaps even looking forward to them.

    Roh let out a loud whoop of joy as he read the notification on his screen, grinning from ear to ear. He had worked hard to become a skilled hunter, and it was gratifying to see all of his efforts paying off.

    "Finally!" he exclaimed, pumping his fist in the air. "I''m an actual hunter! No more bumbling around, trying to figure things out. I''ve arrived, baby!"

    As he sat there, basking in the glow of his newfound status, Roh knew that there were still challenges and dangers ahead. But he was ready for them, armed with his skills, his wits, and his auroch mount by his side. He was an actual hunter, and he was ready to take on whatever the world had to throw at him

    After defeating the predator, he set to work harvesting its meat. He knew that the creature''s flesh would be tough and gamey, but he also knew that it would be a valuable source of food and sustenance during his journey through the forest, not to mention he was starving.

    He began by gutting the beast, carefully removing its organs and setting them aside. Next, he skinned the creature, taking care to remove as much of the fat and gristle as possible.

    New Skill Unlocked

    Gained Skill: [Harvesting Lv1]

    New Passive Ability ¨C [Monster Hunter Experience Boost Lv1]: +25% XP bonus from harvesting meat from monsters.

    (Gained from successfully extracting meat from slain monsters.)

    After reading the prompt, Roh''s lips curled into a small, satisfied smile as he whispered to himself, "This passive ability is quite useful - with all the hunting I''ll be doing, I''ll have plenty of opportunities to harvest monster meat and level up quickly."

    With the meat prepared, he built a small fire and set a pot of water from his waterskin to boil. He cut the meat into small chunks and added them to the pot, along with a handful of wild herbs and vegetables that he had gathered from the surrounding area.

    As the stew simmered over the fire, Roh sat back and tended to his wounds and gashes on his chest. He remembered the Mending Gel that he had tucked away in his bag.

    He quickly dug through his bag, his fingers closing around the small, compact vial. He pulled out the cork stopper and squeezed a generous amount of the thick, orange gel onto his fingers. As he applied the gel directly on the gashes, he felt a cool sensation wash over the wounded areas. The gel quickly went to work, numbing the pain and promoting healing.

    Roh could see the gash closing and healing before his eyes. The gel hardened, forming a protective barrier that would prevent further injury and contamination. He let out a sigh of relief, feeling the gash start to fade away.

    The smell of the cooking meat made his stomach growl, and he couldn''t wait to dig in.

    The stew bubbled away on the campfire, filling the air with its rich, savory aroma. Chunks of succulent meat and vegetables swam in the thick, hearty broth, and a sprinkle of herbs lent a hint of earthy, aromatic flavor.

    Roh couldn''t wait to dig in, his mouth watering at the thought of all those flavors coming together in one delicious, satisfying dish. He knew that it would be the perfect fuel for whatever lay ahead on their journey, a warm, comforting meal to fill his belly and strengthen his spirit.

    Finally, the stew was ready. As Roh sat down to enjoy his very first  meal of predator meat, he couldn''t help but let out a satisfied sigh. He dug in with gusto, savoring each and every bite. The juices from the meat dripped down his beard as he ate, and he wiped them away with the back of his hand, not wanting to miss a single drop of the delicious stew. Despite the tough, gamey flavor of the predator''s meat, he found it to be surprisingly satisfying and although he didn''t usually enjoy the taste of predator meat, he was so hungry that he devoured the stew with relish.

    New Skill Unlocked

    Gained Skill: [Cooking Lv1]

    You have also gained the "Well-Fed" buff, which increases your health regeneration rate by 10% for the next 4 hours.

    Enjoy your newfound culinary abilities, and don''t forget to use them to keep yourself nourished and well-fed on your adventures!

    Recipe learned:

    Gamey Stew

    3 x [Raw Meat Chunks]

    2 x [Vegetables]

    1 x [Herbs]

    Achievement unlocked!

    [Learned a recipe] Successful experimentation, or in this case common sense, paid off

    Learning trade secrets could prove useful and lucrative

    Reward: A warm fuzzy feeling from self accomplishment

    Level Up!

    Level 3

    Title: Actual Hunter.

    It looks like you''ve finally taken down your first creature. Keep up the good work, and don''t forget to hone your skills and improve your agility. Who knows what kind of beast you''ll encounter next? Happy hunting!

    Max HP +20

    Max Stamina +10

    Two stat points gained.

    Sweet, this time I will add both stat points to my agility as I almost died because of it. It¡¯s still my lowest stat at three points. Still not great, but it¡¯s getting there.

    He scouted the area once more to ensure that it was clear of threats. No more distractions.Now that I¡¯ve had some food and leveled up, I need to complete my quests. Let¡¯s try to find some more Zulgarn traces.

    Roh was deep in the heart of the forest, his senses on high alert as he searched for the elusive Zulgarn behemoth. For ages he had been tracking its scent, and now he was closing in on his prey.

    As he crested a rise in the trail, he suddenly caught the faint scent of something musky and foul. He slowed his pace, hand instinctively reaching for the knife at his belt.

    Carefully, he approached a clump of ferns and pushed them aside, revealing a tangled mass of fur. Roh let out a low whistle, his heart racing with excitement. He had finally found the first trace of the beast.

    He approached the fur carefully, studying it intently. The fur was thick and shaggy, and it was streaked with dirt and blood. Roh was a seasoned hunter, and he knew the dangers of the Zulgarn behemoth all too well. He carefully collected a sample of the fur, storing it in a small pouch at his belt.

    Main Quest Updated!

    Objective: Collect Traces of a Zulgarn 2/3

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    With a fierce grin, Roh set off once again, his quest for the final trace now more urgent than ever.

    And then, just as he was about to crest another rise in the trail, he caught the scent of something even fouler than the fur. He followed it, moving quickly and quietly, until he came across a small pool of drool. Roh let out a triumphant roar, knowing that he had finally found the second trace of the beast.

    He approached the drool carefully, studying it intently. The drool was thick and glistening, and it reeked of decay and rot. Roh carefully collected a sample, storing it in a separate pouch at his belt.

    Completed! Main Quest - Zulgarn of the Primal Lands

    Rewards:

    500 XP

    100 Gold

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    New Main Quest - Obtain a Pathfinder

    Pathfinders are flying creature companions that assist hunters in tracking their quarry. They are able to pick up the scent of a hunter¡¯s target and lead them to it. Your task is to obtain one to be your companion and assist you on your journey.

    Objective: Obtain a Pathfinder

    Location: Vendor in Cazador

    Recommended Level: 3

    Conditions: None

    Failure Conditions: None

    Rewards:

    1000 XP

    200 Gold

    +100 Pathfinder Research Points

    With a fierce grin, Roh set off once again, his quest complete. The Zulgarn behemoth was now within his grasp, and he was determined to bring the hunt to an end.

 Chapter 5 (Part 3): First Blood

    Back on track, Roh mounted Noona, noticing that this time she didn¡¯t put up a fight as the previous times.

    He made his way to Wyvern Heights with only the quest on his mind this time and continued to follow south, along the river, for five miles. He exhaled, feeling a sense of relief as the sharp, reddish, stony peaks of Wyvern Heights came into view. Finally made it.

    As he knelt by the river to refill his waterskin, a creeping sensation of being watched washed over him. Despite his attempts to shake off the feeling, it persisted as he set off towards Wyvern Heights, each rustle of the leaves or snap of a twig sending his heart racing. He scanned the tree line, searching for any signs of movement, but all he saw were the usual suspects - birds and small animals going about their business. He shrugged off the feeling and continued on.

    He spotted something in the distance - a faint glow emanating from a small opening in the side of a rocky hill. He approached cautiously, his hand instinctively reaching for his weapon.

    As he drew closer, he realized that the opening was actually a cave entrance at the foot of the mountain. It felt ominous to Roh with several slender, rocky outcroppings enclosing it. He couldn¡¯t help but feel that they resembled a behemoth¡¯s teeth.

    The entrance was partially hidden behind a thick curtain of vines. He hesitated for a moment, wondering if he should turn back, but he couldn¡¯t give up his very first quest.

    Before he dared enter the cave, he used his whistle to dismiss Noona. In a swirling, silver haze she disappeared out of sight. He then attempted to pull out his war axe from atop his back when the awful thought dawned on him. ¡°Ah fuck!¡± I dropped it when that stupid Yawper almost made me deaf. Hate to admit it, but I could use some help. I¡¯ll try to add the gang. It will be a lot easier and entertaining with them here.

    As Roh thought it, the user interface appeared with a message.

    I would like to remind you that you cannot add friends while you are still in an instance.

    Following that, an image of the map displayed the encircled, instanced area. It only revealed areas that he already encountered like Na¡¯rok Village and his path through Caragard to Wyvern Heights. The rest of the map was hidden by the fog of war. However, the closest edge of the circle was at the opposite end of the cave, by what he presumed would be the exit. Guess I¡¯ll add them once I¡¯m out of this zone¡­if I make it out alive.

    I guess I have my pickax in a pinch, but it¡¯s a tool and I don¡¯t really want to use that for combat with its low DPS and I don¡¯t want to lower its durability either as I may come across some valuable iron ores in this cave.

    Suppose I can try crafting a weapon. Although, I don¡¯t know any recipes¡­but I distinctly remember the developers saying in an announcement trailer that the game would have an in-depth crafting system. It would be cool to try it out. I wonder if I could try to make something with flint? Maybe I could try to use it to make a sharp blade of some sort. Now, where to get some flint? I could go into the cave and mine some with my pickax but I need the flint to create a torch too as it¡¯s far too dark in the cave to see anything and I already used the torch I was given. Maybe I should have picked a race with the Shadowsight trait. Oh well, too late for that. I think I recall reading that flint is usually found near natural water sources. Hmm¡­guess I could make my way back to the river as it¡¯s only about a mile away. Taking a further look around the cave entrance before setting back to the river, it then dawned on him that flint could also be found among all the large rock deposits scattered near the cave entrance. He bent down to have a closer look, sifted through the gravel, and found a glossy looking piece of flint. Score!

    Flint (Very High Quality) - Common

    Hard but brittle ore that is widely used to start fires or to make stone tools.

    I don¡¯t need to get plant fibers as I already have some rope that I can use from my Survival Pack¡­ So all I need now is some wood which is easy to find. Roh picked up two branches. With the first one, he lit the branch with sparks that he created by hitting the flint against a rock. This happened to sharpen the flint at the same time while also successfully crafting a torch.

    Torch - Common

    A simple source of light (and some warmth). Can also be used to ignite things.

    Increased durability due to very high quality raw resource

    New Skill Unlocked

    Gained Skill: [Crafting Lv1]

    New Passive Ability ¨C [Crafting Experience Boost Lv1]: +25% XP bonus from crafting

    (Gained from creating tools, weapons, or items.)

    Recipe learned:

    Torch

    1 x [ignition source] e.g. sparks

    1 x [combustible material] e.g. wood

    Nice. Those kinds of games that make you feel like you''re actually in there, figuring things out and crafting stuff like in real life, they just suck you right in. It''s all about that sweet spot between making things intuitive but not handing everything to you on a silver platter, you know? I''m just starting out in the game, but man, it''s been a blast so far. The game systems are spot on, making you feel all rewarded without actually giving you physical loot. It''s genius, really.

    Learning the ropes is one thing, but mastering them? That''s where the real fun begins. It''s like, the game''s challenging you to up your skills, and I''m all in for that. It''s exactly this kind of design that keeps the die-hard fans coming back for more, chasing that mastery.

    And hey, looks like I''m already getting the hang of it. Just crafted my first small axe. I even added some extra rope for support, because why not? Might not be necessary, but it feels like a smart move for durability

    Rudimentary, one-handed, small axe ¨C Common

    Small, common flint axe. Better than nothing.

    This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

    Increased critical strike chance due to very high quality raw resource

    Recipe learned:

    Rudimentary, one-handed, small axe

    1 x [sharpened flint]

    1 x [wood]

    1 x [rope] (Optional)

    Sweet another recipe. These could come handy when trading.

    Holding the torch in his left hand and the axe in his right, Roh entered the forbidding cave. The air inside was cool and musty, and his footsteps echoed off the walls as he made his way deeper into the cave. He shone the light around, taking in the sights and sounds of the underground world. It was a peaceful place, and for a moment, he forgot about the dangers that could be lurking from the shadows.

    But that peace was short-lived. As he turned a corner, he was confronted with a sight that stopped him dead in his tracks - the lair of a wyvern. The beast was curled up in a corner, its shimmering scales catching the light of the flashlight. Roh froze, his heart pounding and palms slick with sweat. A wave of panic crashed over him. What was I thinking, taking on a wyvern alone? This is insane, a guaranteed failure. I¡¯m not prepared for this at all.

    Roh''s mind raced as he fought the urge to turn and flee. I can¡¯t do this! Gah¡­ but it''s just a game. I can¡¯t be like that player back at Tucks, the one who got froze or I may end up the same. I just got to focus on that hefty reward for this quest. Roh took a shaky breath, trying to steel his nerves. It''s just a game. I have to see this through. I need to get that Wyvern Core.

    Determined to take down the wyvern, Roh carefully considered his options. He knew that he couldn''t take on the beast head-on, so he decided to try a different approach. Sneaking along the walls of the lair, he stumbled upon a narrow passage that seemed to lead deeper into the cave. He realized that this might be his chance to catch the wyvern by surprise. Without a second thought, he darted into the passage.

    DISCOVERED NEW LOCATION: WYVERN HEIGHTS

    As he squeezed through the narrow, winding passage, made even more difficult due to his large, bulky frame, he then made his way down a slippery slope, careful not to lose his footing.

    The interior of the cave smelled of musty, pervasive ammonia. Roh recoiled at the stench. This place reeks of bat guano. I best be careful not to disturb them. He slowed down his pace so he wouldn¡¯t alert anything with the sound of his footsteps.

    The odor grew more intense, now mixed with the tang of a rotting corpse as he pushed forwards. Roh tightened his grip around his axe. That can¡¯t be good. I must be ready to attack. The challenge of his quest only dawning on him now. Even if the wyvern is fast asleep, how am I going to take it down on my own? And with a crappy weapon too? He gulped.

    Within the central chamber of the cavern, the entire interior was illuminated by shafts of light that seeped in through large cracks in the cave¡¯s ceiling.

    Roh felt disclosed out in the open and cast a hurried look about the area to check for any threats, but instead, he found the origin of the rotten reek. It was the wyvern. Where he initially thought it had been asleep, it was actually dead. The corpse of the fully grown wyvern lay sprawled out on the floor to one side. Whatever killed it did significant damage as from the front, it was barely recognisable. Roh could mostly make out its form and markings and with its diminutive proportions he gathered that it was a female wyvern. Usually wyverns, being the intelligent creatures that they are, would flee if they felt threatened so the slain wyvern must have been trying to protect something very dear to it.

    It still had its color and its blood was fresh, and as he rummaged, the carcass still felt warm to the touch. It can¡¯t have died long ago.The malodor must be because of the humidity and its innards being exposed. Perhaps my luck has turned around and it was attacked by another beast, ready to be looted.

    As he inserted his hand into the wyvern¡¯s open chest, he was immediately struck by the slimy wet feeling of the creature''s insides. The organs were slippery and squishy beneath his fingers. The thick, sticky slime coated his hands and made it difficult to get a firm grip on anything. Despite the gross sensation, he knew that he needed to find the core and continued to delve deeper into the wyvern''s innards. As he probed and prodded, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of revulsion at the wet, slippery mess that surrounded him.

    Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Roh realized that it was missing so he pulled his hand out and as he wiped his hands, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of disgust at the slimy wet feeling of the wyvern''s insides that lingered on his skin. Damn it, it has been looted already! Figures¡­ just my rotten luck! Now I need to wait until it respawns and I will have to kill it by myself somehow.

    With no real strategy or idea on how he was going to manage to kill the wyvern and complete the quest, Roh waited for it to respawn.

    After waiting a significant amount of time, he grew frustrated,the corpse was not disappearing as they did in the Beta and all the other games he ever played but was instead rotting further. Hmm¡­I wonder if that¡¯s one of the new changes that the developers were talking about that has been brought about by making use of Blockchain. That would make sense as each creature would be completely unique. But that means I need to find a different wyvern or I¡¯ve failed my very first quest.

    As he waited, his hunger intensified dramatically to 95%.

    Whoa! That¡¯s dangerously high. Roh felt vibrations in the real world across his midriff. This haptic feedback was a grave reminder that he needed to eat and fast before he perished from hunger. Things just keep getting better and better. I¡¯m never going to be able to complete the damn quest! He slapped his forehead and rolled his eyes. What on earth am I going to find edible in here!? Maybe some mushrooms¡­or a nest?

    As he looked around, Roh noticed a nest tucked away near the lifeless body. It was only partially visible from his vantage point, hidden by a cluster of large stalagmites. With his keen senses, he spotted an egg nestled inside.

    Upon closer inspection, Roh realized that this egg was unlike any he had ever seen before, for it glimmered in the dim light, its surface a tapestry of greens and browns, resembling a patchwork quilt of leaves and bark. The air around the egg was infused with the scent of freshly cut grass and the soft rustling of leaves causing Roh to wrinkle his nose. I sure hope it tastes better than it smells.

    As he reached out to touch it, he felt a curious warmth emanating from within. His senses were flooded with a rush of nature''s energy, as though the egg held within it the secrets of the forest. Looks like eating this egg could give me some magical properties.

    Roh was immediately drawn to the egg, but as he lifted it from its nest, he couldn''t help but wonder what creature could possibly be inside. It seemed too small to be a wyvern''s egg, yet too large to belong to any bird he knew. It seemed to pulse with a life of its own, and as Roh held it, he felt a sense of wonder.

    The egg was heavier than Roh had anticipated. He wondered what magic lay inside, what creature would have emerged had it had a chance to incubate. Roh couldn''t help but feel a twinge of sadness that he was preventing the creature inside from hatching. He consoled himself with the thought that the creature would be of no use to him, whereas the egg would provide sustenance and possibly grant him special properties. This is going to be a bitch to open, but it¡¯s probably going to be all the more worth it.

    Roh grabbed the egg, ready to attempt to crack it open and consume it, when he heard the familiar sound of that bloody Yawper along with large echoing footsteps. Shit! They¡¯re headed this way.

    In a hurry, he stored the egg in his satchel for later.

    Egg - Rarity Unknown

    A mysterious egg.

    Roh made his way out of the cavern into an empty clearing, the primordial light a hue of purple. I didn¡¯t realize just how long I had been in there. I better come off the game for tonight as I can¡¯t exactly return to Tucks empty-handed so I¡¯ll sleep in my bedroll, logout, and figure out what to do on my return.

    Alright, looks like I found a chill spot to park myself. No angry red edges on my screen, which is sweet ''cause it means no baddies are on my tail, and no annoying pop-ups telling me I can''t log off here. I''m still in the safe zone on the map, so no worries about other players jumping me. That''s the last thing I need, getting looted while I''m AFK. Next time, I''ve gotta hit up an Inn or Tavern for sure. Roh placed his bedroll on the cool, moist grass and as he lay in the bedroll, all his surroundings started to fade into blackness.

 Chapter 6 (Part 1): IRL

    Since it was Sunday and Noah didn¡¯t work on weekends, he decided that he would spend the morning playing Age of the Behemoths. I better get something to eat first as time always flies by when playing.

    Sitting down to tuck into his breakfast, Noah casually browsed on his phone while he ate when he noticed that he had a voicemail from his mom and missed calls from his boss.

    Both scenarios left him feeling incredibly unsettled, each stirring a blend of discomfort and annoyance within him, making it hard to decide which was worse. As he mulled over the unexpected contact from her, his hand involuntarily tightened around his phone, jaw clenching with tension. Long, heavy sighs punctuated his restless thoughts, a storm of questions whirling through his mind. Why reach out now, after all this silence, punctuated only by infrequent calls that either put him down or sang praises of his brother? The thought made his stomach churn. Could something awful have happened? He tried to quell the rising panic. No, it couldn''t be¡ªshe''d only left a message, after all. Maybe, just maybe, this was her awkward attempt at bridging the chasm between them. Yet, even this sliver of hope twisted into a sharp edge of anxiety. Admitting she had been right all along, that he was the perennial black sheep, the disappointment was a pill too bitter to swallow. Before he could spiral further into these distressing contemplations, his attention was hijacked by another concern¡ªthe message from his boss. Why is he calling on a weekend? He better not be giving me more work. I¡¯ve told him countless times that I¡¯m not giving up my weekends for no pay or time off in lieu.

    He already hated his job enough as it was and now it was starting to encroach on his personal time. He had already mentioned several times in the past how all the work stress was affecting his mental and physical well-being. They don¡¯t care¡­why would they? They just care about the money and their own positions, delegating all their work to me.

    He sprang up off his chair and paced around the room as his insides began to flutter. All he wanted to do was ignore it all and enjoy his weekend playing his new game, but that would only make things worse. The more I procrastinate, the more anxiety it¡¯s giving me and it¡¯s only wasting my time. Plus I won¡¯t be able to really get into the game with all this playing in the back of my mind. I just need to deal with it and then I can go back to how I had originally hoped to spend my Sunday. This is what I love most about games and especially Age of the Behemoths, they provide escapism from this stressful, out of control life. I feel so free when I¡¯m playing games. I relish freedom and actually having control.

    Noah stopped pacing, pressed play and closed his eyes as his mother¡¯s voice filled the room, a familiar and comforting sound.

    "Darling, I just wanted to reach out and let you know that your brother James has joined the family business and is now working as an attorney at Parkers & Bentons law firm. Your father and I couldn''t be more proud of him." Her words were like a punch to Noah''s gut, and he couldn''t help but feel a pang of jealousy and resentment.

    As he listened to the voicemail, Noah could almost feel the warmth of his childhood home around him. He could smell the freshly baked cookies and hear the sound of his mother¡¯s laughter. It was as if he was transported back in time, to a simpler and happier place.

    But the moment was bittersweet, as the realization that he was not living up to his parents'' expectations dawned on him. His brother had become a successful attorney, just like they had always wanted, while he had chosen to follow his own dreams and become a game designer. He knew they respected and supported his decision, but the guilt still gnawed at him.

    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.

    Noah sighed heavily and rubbed his eyes, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. He knew he needed to call James and congratulate him, but the thought made him feel like a fraud. He had always felt like an outsider in his own family, the black sheep who had gone against tradition.

    He shook his head, trying to push the negative thoughts away. He would call his brother, congratulate him, and try to focus on the positive aspects of his own life.

    Noah''s reaction to the voicemail was mixed. On one hand, he felt proud of his brother for joining the family business and becoming an attorney, but on the other hand, he felt a twinge of jealousy and disappointment. He couldn''t help but think about how his parents had always wanted both their sons to become attorneys, and how he had chosen a different path. A path that resulted in failure. Noah was so passionate about becoming a game designer and yet every time he applied, he was rejected. He felt a sense of inadequacy and guilt for not being able to fulfill their expectations. He also felt a sense of resentment towards his mother for reminding him to call his brother and congratulate him, as if he had to fulfill some sort of duty.

    Noah stood there, left feeling a mix of emotions, when his phone started ringing. It was his boss. Why?! Why does life keep kicking me down? Can¡¯t catch a break!

    He sighed as he reached for it, his fingertips brushing over the smooth glass surface before he swiped to answer the call.

    "Hello," he said, his voice laced with fatigue.

    "Hi Noah, it''s Ethan," came the reply. The sound of his boss''s voice instantly caused a knot of tension to form in Noah''s stomach.

    Noah closed his eyes and took a deep breath, trying to steel himself for whatever was to come. "What''s up, Ethan?" he asked, his voice wary.

    "We''re going to need you to come in today," Ethan said briskly. "The system has gone down again, and we need you to take a look into it."

    Noah''s heart sank at the news. Another technical issue on a weekend, and he was the one who had to deal with it. He knew there was no use arguing, though. It was part of his job, and he couldn''t afford to lose it.

    "Hey Ethan, I can take a look at it tomorrow," he said, trying to keep his tone neutral. "It''s the weekend, and I''ve already made plans."

    "I''m going to be straight with you, Noah," Ethan said, his voice turning cold. "This is not going to look good when it comes to your appraisal. I will personally vouch that you dropped the ball when the company and the team needed you, so I''m not asking you to do this. I''m telling you."

    Noah felt a jolt of anger at the implication. He had worked tirelessly for the company, putting in long hours and countless nights of overtime. He couldn''t believe that this one instance would undo all of that.

    "How can you say that when I''m always working hard and I do loads of overtime?" he said, his voice rising. "Ever since I''ve started, I''ve done crunch on a daily basis. It''s really affecting my mental wellbeing. I''m going through a lot of personal stuff at the moment."

    He heard Ethan sigh heavily on the other end of the line. "Noah, you''re young and single," he said, his voice patronizing. "I have a wife and three kids, plus a much higher position than you. I have a lot of responsibilities, and I learned how to cope through time management. You need to manage your time better. Prioritize. You do this, and when it comes to a promotion, it''s in the bag."

    Noah clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white. He knew he was being taken advantage of, but he also knew that he needed this job. He took a deep breath and swallowed his pride.

    "Okay, I''ll be there in an hour," he said, his voice resigned.

    "I knew I could count on you," Ethan said, his tone suddenly cheerful. "Emily is at the desk, so just buzz when you get to the office, and she will let you in. Later."

    Noah ended the call and slumped back against the couch, feeling drained and defeated. He closed his eyes and tried to push the resentment and frustration out of his mind, focusing instead on the task ahead. He would go in, fix the problem, and then he would try to enjoy the rest of his weekend, somehow.

 Chapter 6 (Part 2): IRL

    Noah pressed the accelerator, guiding his car with deft precision through the weekend''s sparse traffic. The engine responded with a smooth, cat-like purr, its harmonious hum a comforting backdrop. The wind, as it whisked past the windows, sliced through the eerie silence, its rushing sound a solitary companion on his swift journey. It was as if the world had gone to sleep, leaving him alone in the deserted streets.

    He pulled into the office parking lot and sighed at the emptiness. The only other car there was Emily¡¯s.

    As Noah approached the building''s entrance, a distant sound caught his attention. It was a bird''s chirp, soft and sweet, coming from the nearby trees. The melody was a stark contrast to the dull gray walls of the building and the fluorescent lights that flickered above him. It reminded him of the freedom and serenity of the outdoors, whether in the real world or virtual.

    He couldn''t help but think of the immersive world of ''Age of the Behemoth,'' where he could escape to a vivid and liberating virtual reality. The sound of the bird was like a portal, transporting him to a place where he could roam freely in lush forests and fields, and hunt with his friends. A world where he could forget about work, stress, and responsibilities.

    Noah shook his head, clearing his mind of the daydream. He needed to focus on the task at hand, but the longing for the outdoors lingered in his heart.

    Once inside, he saw Emily sitting at the reception desk, typing away at her computer. Her long, painted nails clicked on the keyboard like tiny, tap-dancing feet. Noah couldn''t help but admire her immaculate appearance and poise, a stark contrast to his disheveled and exhausted state.

    He trudged over to her, the sound of his footsteps echoing in the empty lobby. "Hey, Emily," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Ethan told me to come in and take a look at the system."

    Emily looked up at him, her face expressionless. "Okay," she said flatly. "I''ll let him know you''re here."

    Noah sighed as he made his way to the server room, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. It seemed like the universe was conspiring against him, forcing him to work on a weekend while everyone else got to enjoy their free time. The thought made him feel like a hamster trapped in a wheel, endlessly running without getting anywhere.

    Finally, after what felt like hours, Noah finished the job and left the building. He breathed in the fresh air outside, feeling like a prisoner who had just been released from jail. The sun was setting on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the world, and the birds were singing once more.

    Noah got into his car and drove home, to his sanctuary, the weight of the day still heavy on his shoulders.

    ***

    Noah trudged through the front door of his apartment, feeling like a zombie after a long and grueling day at work. His feet dragged on the hardwood floor, and he could feel every step as if he was wading through quicksand.

    He kicked off his shoes and slumped onto the couch, sinking into the soft cushions with a sigh of relief. The fabric was cool against his skin, and he closed his eyes, letting out a deep breath.

    He sat in silence, his mind weighed down by the events that had transpired. Although he longed to escape into the world of Age of the Behemoths and lose himself in the thrill of the hunt, he felt too exhausted to move.

    In search of a reprieve, he reached for the remote and turned on the television, hoping to find some solace in mindless entertainment. The bright screen illuminated the room, casting flickering shadows on the walls and offering a momentary respite from the weight of the day.

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    As he sat there, staring blankly at the screen, he couldn''t help but notice the state of his apartment. The sink was filled with dirty dishes, and clothes were strewn about the floor. The mess only added to his sense of unease, a constant reminder that he had neglected his surroundings.

    He closed his eyes again in an attempt to block out his surroundings. But it only made his mind return to the events of the day. The technical issue he had been called in to fix had been more complicated than he had anticipated, and it had taken hours to resolve. He had barely had time to eat or drink anything, and the constant buzzing of his phone had left him feeling exhausted and drained.

    He couldn''t help but think about how unfair it all was. He worked harder than anyone else in the company, putting in countless hours of overtime and sacrificing his personal life. And yet, he was still overlooked and undervalued.

    Noah groaned and covered his face with his hands, feeling the weight of the day crushing him. He was bone tired, and his body ached from sitting in front of a computer screen for so long.

    As he lay there, he could hear the muffled sounds of the city outside. The honking of cars, the distant chatter of people, and the occasional siren. It was like a symphony of noise, a constant reminder of the world outside.

    Noah knew he needed to take care of himself and his apartment, but the thought of moving was too much to bear. He felt like a lump of clay, too heavy and too tired to do anything. Noah let out a heavy sigh, feeling an overwhelming sense of helplessness wash over him. For now, he just needed to rest and try to let go of the stresses of the day.

    As Noah lay there for what felt like hours, lost in his thoughts and the sound of his own breathing, the sudden sound of something moving caught his attention. He opened his eyes to see a blur of movement, and then a familiar shape came into focus. It was Casper, the neighbor''s cat, gracefully leaping through the open window. His fur was ruffled by the breeze and he landed on his paws with a soft thud.

    Noah watched with a smile as Casper looked around the room, his green eyes scanning every corner with curiosity. His tail swished back and forth in contentment. He couldn''t help but smile at the sight of him, feeling a sense of comfort and familiarity in his presence.

    "Hey there, Casper," he said softly, reaching out to stroke his fur. Casper purred contentedly, nuzzling his head against Noah¡¯s hand.

    Noah sat up slowly, feeling a sense of calm wash over him. He had been so lost in his own thoughts. But now, with the cat by his side, he felt grounded and connected.

    Noah watched as the cat explored his apartment, his tail twitching as he sniffed at various objects. He seemed to be searching for something, his nose leading him from room to room.

    Casper wandered over to the kitchen and began poking his head into the sink, searching for food.

    As the cat rummaged through the dirty dishes, it accidentally got its paw stuck in something sticky. It let out a pitiful meow as it tried to pull its paw free, knocking over a stack of pots and pans in the process.

    The cat seemed oblivious to the chaos it was causing, its attention focused on finding food. It hopped up on the counter and began pushing things off with its paws, sending cups and utensils crashing to the floor.

    The noise startled it, causing it to jump down from the counter and scurry away.

    Noah couldn''t help but laugh at the cat''s antics, feeling a spark of joy in his otherwise depressing day. He knew he needed to get his life back on track, and watching the cat''s silly behavior was just the push he needed to start. I feel a bit more pumped now which makes me want to play Age of the Behemoths, but I guess I should do some tidying first before Casper causes any more trouble.

    Casper scampered across the living room and stopped in front of the couch, his tail twitching nervously.

    As he made his way back to the couch, he paused for a moment, his eyes fixed on the soft cushions. He sniffed at the air, and then with a graceful leap, he landed on the couch and began kneading the fabric with his paws.

    Noah watched in wonder as he settled in, his body molding to the shape of the couch as if it were made just for him. The purring that emanated from him was like a soothing balm, and Noah felt his stress melt away. Well this is not getting things done. I better get up and start cleaning. Then I can get some gaming in.

    He got up from the couch, determined to clean his apartment and take control of his life once again.

 Chapter 6 (Part 3): IRL

    As Noah busied himself with cleaning, the television droned on in the background. A news segment caught his attention, discussing the topic of cryptocurrency and blockchain in the gaming industry. The reporters'' words filled the room, painting a picture of a world where players and companies could become incredibly wealthy through the use of these technologies.

    Noah paused for a moment, sponge in hand, as the weight of the conversation settled in. He had always dreamt of making it big one day, of freeing himself from the shackles of his mundane routine. The dream was simple: to become rich, change his life''s trajectory, and maybe, just maybe, offer a better life to those around him.

    The more he listened, the more hope bubbled within him. This could be it. The next big opportunity. Noah had always believed in seizing the right moments, and this seemed like a beacon guiding him towards a potential future he''d only dared to imagine. The world of cryptocurrency and gaming could be his ladder to success.

    With renewed vigor, he delved back into his cleaning, every movement imbued with newfound purpose as his mind whirred with the possibilities. Every swipe of the cloth, every streak he wiped away, seemed symbolic of him clearing his path to the future. If gaming and blockchain were indeed the gold mines the reporters suggested, then Noah was more than ready to dive in and change his life forever.

    The news segment was filled with jargon and technical terms that were foreign to Noah, but the implications were clear. The world was changing, and these technologies were at the forefront of that change.

    However, as the segment progressed, Noah couldn''t help but notice an undertone of caution in their voices. They explained how cryptocurrency and blockchain had been around for over two decades, close to three, and they had yet to fully catch on with mainstream audiences and gamers.The reporters also warned of the dangers and drawbacks of using cryptocurrency and blockchain in gaming. They talked about the numerous scams and fraudulent schemes that preyed on unsuspecting players, promising them big returns but delivering nothing in return.

    As Noah diligently continued with his chores, he halted momentarily when the game that had recently captivated him, ''Age of the Behemoths,'' was mentioned in the background. The conversation from the TV softly unveiled a series of unsettling rumors that had begun to circulate within the gaming industry at large. Rather than pinpointing accusations, there were veiled hints at underhanded dealings, suggesting a pattern of questionable practices among some of the most renowned gaming firms. These whispers of intrigue and dubious ventures hinted at a complex web involving digital assets within these virtual worlds.

    It was within this context of industry-wide speculation that Aztech Q-VR, the creators of ''Age of the Behemoths,'' emerged as one of the first to address these murmurs head-on. They had effectively silenced the whispers of deceit and manipulation by disclosing the use of ''dead wallets''. Noah learned that these were wallets that held digital assets but were inaccessible, even by the owners themselves. This system was implemented as a safety measure to prevent any kind of misuse or exploitation, quelling fears about insider trading.

    The company''s transparency and its initiative to put this measure in place were strong moves against the circulating rumors, demonstrating their commitment to fair play. As a result, the negative speculation around Aztech Q-VR had been quashed, leaving the company''s reputation intact.

    Relief washed over Noah as he resumed cleaning, reassured that his virtual adventures were not entangled in a web of deceit. The reporters'' words continued to echo in the background, a reminder of the changing face of gaming in a world where technology and economics intertwined.

    As the news segment came to a close, Noah was left with more questions than answers. He knew that he needed to do some research of his own, to dig deeper into the implications of cryptocurrency and blockchain in the gaming industry. Only then could he make an informed decision about whether or not to get involved. Hmm¡­I wonder how it affects the Age of the Behemoths as the game uses those technologies?!

    With this in mind, Noah decided to revisit the email he received when he first purchased the game and kit to run it. Although he had only briefly scanned it at the time, he suspected there might be valuable information he had overlooked.

    Email sent by Aztech Q-VR at 9:30 am on Monday 3rd August 2037.

    Dear Customer #5732210,

    Thank you for purchasing the latest VRMMO on the market ¡°Age of the Behemoths¡±.

    Our mission is to revolutionize the way consumers interact with games by redefining video games as an integral part of daily life, rather than just a form of escapism.

    To achieve this, we have dedicated significant investment from some of the largest venture capitalists on a plethora of emerging technologies as well as some already proven technologies such as full body haptic feedback, brainwave reading, Blockchain, Big Data, Deep Learning, quantum computing as well as quantum cryptography to name just a few.

    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

    We have great confidence that by leveraging and synergizing these ground breaking technologies in a cohesive manner, we will be able to utilize the true interoperability provided by Web 3.0 and thus capitalize on this in order to build the biggest, most successful ecosystem with the greatest utility provided and by doing so we project that our financial forecast will see a huge return on investment.

    As a player you will most likely not be interested in the back end, lower level design of our tokenomics, however, smart players know that the metaverse is more than just a game and that your in-game assets could become true assets rather than the traditional liabilities of games from the past and if you are one of these savvy players then you are most likely also an investor at heart that knows as much as we do how lucrative this opportunity could be and therefore we have decided to be make you aware of our hyper-deflationary tokenomics since most tokens and projects or dApps (decentralized apps) as they are more commonly referred to mainly fail due to inflation in the market.

    Tokenomics Overview:

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400">The tokens are the currency in the game and they start with a low initial circulating supply which through regular burns and buybacks will positively increase the token price by constantly raising the floor. </li>

    </ul>

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400">We are now at a stage where we will be vesting a portion of the tokens to release over a period of time.</li>

    </ul>

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400">The remaining tokens will be on sale as an IDO (Initial Dex Offering) Presale so make sure that you get in early and don¡¯t miss out as once the game launches out of beta then the sheer volume of players will increase the market cap at unbelievable pace since will be aiming for a massive marketing campaign push on launch day. </li>

    </ul>

    We believe that complete transparency and clear communication is vital to sustainability. I won¡¯t go into any more further details about the tokenomics as this can all be found in our whitepaper, however, hopefully this should excite you the player in not only joining us on this grand adventure to an incredible new world with ostentatious sights and sounds that will excite the senses, but also (as we prefer to say) to a venture of a lifetime!

    All manner of things can be bought and sold in the game as an asset, whether it be raw resources, clothing, equipment, weapons, lands or housing. The world is there to make of it what you will and the best part is that not only can you become extremely rich in game quickly, but also in real life.

    This is not only a game changer, but truly life changing.

    Finally, none of this would be possible without you, the player so welcome to ¡°Age of the Behemoths¡±, we hope that you enjoy your stay and we look forward to a long fortuitous journey together! We believe that once you experience the game for yourself you will never want to leave, save for your basic needs, and even then we are exploring ways on how we can innovate on that. That last bit was a joke ¡­or is it?

    P.S: Please click on the link below for us to take you through a walkthrough of the game. Please note that after the walkthrough you can begin playing the beta test as a bonus for your pre-order. We are finalizing and polishing the last bits of the game before the final release. With a game of this unprecedented scale, we have spent many years in the making and have had to delay the release numerous times. However, we feel confident that the game will be released within the next few days. Of all the games that we have ever developed, this game has been the highest risk, but we also feel it will be the highest reward for both you the player, as well as us the developers and the gaming community as a whole.

    Enjoy and see you on the other side!

    Yours Sincerely,

    Larissa Koch

    CEO of Aztech Q-VR

    Upon reading the email, Noah was thrilled to discover that Age of the Behemoths was not just another run-of-the-mill video game. The information provided in the email only served to deepen his excitement and curiosity about the game. The fact that the developers had incorporated cutting-edge technologies hinted at the possibility of a game that was truly ahead of its time.

    As Noah delved deeper into the email, he found himself becoming increasingly drawn to the game''s hyper-deflationary tokenomics, which meant that in-game assets could become valuable real-world assets. The thought of potentially getting rich by playing a game that he loved was tantalizing, and he couldn''t help but dream of the possibility of freeing himself from the daily grind.

    The email had ignited a sense of anticipation and wonder in Noah, and he couldn''t wait to immerse himself further in the world of Age of the Behemoths. He felt that the game had the potential to push the boundaries of gaming and possibly even have a real-world impact, which only added to his enthusiasm.

    As Noah finished up his cleaning, he noticed Casper perched on the windowsill, particularly drawn to the small metal tag around his neck. This discreet emblem was how Noah came to know his name, despite never having spoken to any of his neighbors.

    As he watched Casper, with his curious eyes and playful demeanor, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of envy. Here was a creature of instinct, unburdened by the fears and anxieties that plagued Noah. Casper was free to explore and play, to enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

    For a moment, Noah was lost in thought, imagining what it would be like to live life like a cat, free from the weight of his own insecurities. But as he came back to reality, he knew that he still had a long way to go. He needed to find the courage to step out of his comfort zone, to connect with others and explore the world around him. The thought of taking such a bold step made him feel uncomfortable, and he began to feel a sense of anxiety creeping up on him. In an attempt to quell these feelings, he decided to retreat to his greatest comfort - gaming! Time to finally play Age of the Behemoths!

 Chapter 6 (Part 4): IRL

    Noah was on the brink of logging into his game when his phone suddenly erupted into a raucous ringtone, interrupting his moment of peace. A wave of dread washed over him as he reached for his phone, convinced that it would be his overbearing mother or demanding boss calling once again. His hands shook as he swiped to answer, bracing himself for the worst.

    To his absolute relief, Noah''s eyes lit up as he saw his friend Dylan''s name flashing on the phone''s screen.

    "Hey man, just checking in, seeing what you''re up to?" said Dylan in a warm and welcoming tone, immediately putting Noah at ease. The sound of his friend''s voice was like a soothing balm, and he felt his tense shoulders gradually relax as a wave of relief washed over him.

    The air in the room suddenly felt lighter, and a smile crept onto Noah''s face. ¡°Not a lot. What about you?¡±

    Dylan chuckled. "Actually, I''ve been playing Age of the Behemoths."

    Noah nodded, the small smile spreading across his face. "Yeah, I figured.¡±

    Dylan laughed. "I''ve been playing it nonstop. And get this - I selected the exact same character we played during the beta. The half-orc paladin. And I named him Durian again."

    Noah grinned. "You''re kidding. That''s hilarious. I also chose the exact same character and name as before. I might have to jump back into the game and join you."

    As they talked about the game, Noah''s mind drifted back to the events of his day. He couldn''t keep it to himself any longer.

    "Dylan, I had a shitty day today," he said, his voice heavy with exhaustion.

    Dylan''s tone shifted, becoming more serious. "What happened, bud? You know I''m here for you."

    Noah explained the voicemail from his mother and the phone call with his boss as well as the technical issue he had been called in to fix, and how it had taken hours to resolve. He talked about the stress and frustration he had felt, and how his boss had threatened to use it against him during his appraisal.

    Dylan listened intently, his voice filled with empathy. "That sounds awful. I''m sorry you had to deal with that. You know I''m always here to talk, right?"

    Noah nodded, feeling a sense of gratitude wash over him. "Yeah, I know. Thanks, Dylan. It means a lot."

    "Hey, I''m sorry you had to deal with that," Dylan said sympathetically. "Your boss sounds like an asshole. You''re too good for that place. You should definitely find a new job."

    Noah let out a small chuckle. "Yeah, maybe you''re right."

    "I know I''m right," Dylan replied confidently. "And as for your mom, well, as much as she loves you and wants the best for you, she tends to get wrapped up in her own emotions. She tends to put her own desires before yours. You need to let her know how her words make you feel."

    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    Noah sighed. "I know, it''s just hard. She means well, but sometimes she can be so overbearing."

    Dylan nodded. "I get it. But you need to stand up for yourself. You deserve to be happy, and if that means setting some boundaries with your mom, then so be it."

    Noah hesitated for a moment before responding, "You know, it''s not that simple. I mean, when I had taken a stand and moved out and gone after the girl and job of my dreams, well look how that turned out."

    "What do you mean?" Dylan asked, concern in his voice.

    "I mean, I thought I had it all figured out. But things didn''t go according to plan. I lost the girl and never got the dream job I wanted. It''s just hard to know what the right thing to do is sometimes, you know?"

    Dylan was quiet for a moment before he spoke, his voice measured and thoughtful. "I get it. Life can be unpredictable and scary sometimes. But you can''t let fear hold you back from living the life you want. You have to take risks, even if they don''t always pan out. Man, if you don''t step up and take some chances, you''re gonna miss out on all the cool stuff that could happen.¡±

    "I know you''ve had some major setbacks lately, and your confidence really took a hit as a result," continued Dylan, his voice laced with empathy. "But you need to try to come out of your comfort zone. Try not to be so shy and meet new people. You''d be surprised at how many amazing connections and experiences are waiting for you out there, if only you take that first step."

    Noah nodded, taking in Dylan''s words. He knew his friend was right. It was time to take control of his life and start making the changes he needed to be happy.

    "You''re right," he said. "Thanks, Dylan. I needed to hear that."

    "Anytime, dude," Dylan replied.

    Noah felt a sense of gratitude wash over him. Dylan always knew exactly what to say to make him feel better.

    "Thanks Dylan," he said. "You always know how to put things in perspective."

    Dylan chuckled. "That''s what I''m here for. Now, let''s get back to the important stuff - gaming. So what¡¯s your first impressions of the game? Oh yeah and did you have issues logging in at first?"

    ¡°I¡¯m absolutely loving it, but it was such a pain to login at first. I tried several attempts before noticing the email notification,¡± said Noah.

    ¡°Same here,¡± replied Dylan.

    Noah continued, "And don''t even get me started on the lack of player feedback when trying to login."

    Dylan replied. "Yeah, I noticed that too.¡±

    ¡°They definitely need to do some user testing and make improvements,¡± said Noah.

    "I wish I could get into game design,¡± Noah sighed, ¡°but it''s so competitive. They only seem to be looking for senior designers with years of experience already."

    Dylan thought for a moment before speaking. "Have you considered reaching out to the team behind Age of the Behemoths and pitching your ideas? You could even ask for a job as a designer and tell them how you would improve the game."

    Noah hesitated. "I don''t know. It doesn''t really work like that."

    Dylan countered, "It shows that you¡¯re proactive, passionate, and your understanding of their game. Surely, it''s worth a shot."

    Noah pondered Dylan''s suggestion. "I guess you have a point. Maybe I will reach out and see what happens."

    Dylan grinned. "That''s the spirit, man. Who knows, you might just land your dream job after all."

    Noah laughed. "Here¡¯s hoping. Anyway, how about we hop on and play? I could use a distraction."

    "Sounds like a plan," Dylan said with a grin. "I''ll see you online, my friend."

 Chapter 7 (Part 1): Imprinting Mishap

    As soon as Noah logged in, the bright primordial light blinded him for a moment. Squinting, he took in his surroundings.

    The area outside the cave was rocky and barren, with only a few patches of hardy grass and scrub brush dotting the landscape. The ground, uneven and peppered with jagged stones, was flanked by sharp cliffs

    Off in the distance, mountains stood tall. Their peaks were veiled by misty clouds. The air here was remarkably pure, crisp like a freshly bitten apple. A quiet rustling sound filled the air as the wind danced playfully with the grass. The serenity was powerful, broken only by these whispers of nature. Here, at this elevation, the wind proved relentless. It was constant, unyielding and forceful, offering a clear reminder of the wildness of this highland terrain.

    Roh took a deep breath and gazed around, taking in the wild and rugged beauty of the landscape. It was a far cry from the cramped and claustrophobic cave he had been in in his last playthrough and he couldn''t wait to explore the wilderness and see what other wonders it held.

    He packed up his bedroll and continued to traverse further into the wilderness, the wind rustling through the leaves and the occasional call of a distant bird echoing through the air. The terrain became more rugged, with jagged rocks and steep inclines, but Roh''s excitement only grew. He felt a sense of freedom he hadn''t experienced in the game before.

    As he climbed a particularly steep hill, system notifications suddenly appeared before him:

    DISCOVERED NEW LOCATION: DRAKESTONE RIDGE

    Attention: You are now outside the instanced area. You may now engage with other players in the game.

    Roh''s eyes widened with surprise. He hadn''t realized he''d ventured so far, but the prospect of being able to interact with other players was an exhilarating one. He paused for a moment, excited to send his friends an invite to join him in this newfound area.

    Just as Roh was about to act, a sudden, sharp pain coursed through him, serving as a harsh reminder of his lingering hunger. Realizing that he was still being penalized for his lack of nourishment, Roh knew he couldn''t afford to ignore it any longer. Gritting his teeth, he watched his HP and Stamina drop to 60. The pain made it clear that exploring with friends would have to wait; his immediate priority was finding something to eat.

    "Ouch, what the fuck?!" Roh exclaimed as a sudden, sharp pain in his abdomen caught him off guard. He was momentarily confused, unable to determine if the pain was virtually induced by the game''s hardware or a genuine physical sensation. The virtually induced pain had never felt quite this intense before. Surely, the game can¡¯t be responsible since it has a threshold for obvious safety and legal reasons. The pain must be coming from the real world.

    Roh wondered if Casper, who had a habit of clawing at his midriff, was the culprit. He is notorious for that.

    But as fear crept in, Roh realized he was isolated in a virtual environment, disconnected from his actual surroundings and potentially vulnerable. He quickly logged out and removed his headset to investigate the source of the pain.

    Upon taking off his headset, Roh saw Casper still curled up on the couch, fast asleep. The apartment was empty and quiet, with no signs of intruders or other threats. He also noticed that the pain had vanished as if it had never been there at all.

    With some hesitation, Roh put the headset back on and logged back into the game, relieved that nothing sinister was causing him pain in the real world. However, the moment he returned to the game, the pain resurfaced, and Roh began to suspect that the game''s developers might have accidentally tampered with the settings, causing him to experience intense pain whenever his HP dropped below 70. Roh knew this issue would necessitate an urgent hotfix patch or perhaps there was a hardware issue requiring a VR kit repair or replacement.

    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    Regardless of the cause, Roh wasn''t about to let a little pain ruin his gaming experience. I won¡¯t be able to contact them now anyway since it¡¯s the weekend. Gritting his teeth, Roh continued playing, finding some comfort in the fact that the pains were somewhat bearable and occurred infrequently.

    Roh took a further 10 damage to his health and his stamina was reduced by an additional 15 points.

    Damn it, I need to eat! I know¡­ the EGG! I never got a chance to eat it in my previous playthrough thanks to that Yawper. I better eat it right away.

    As he pulled out the egg from the satchel, a diegetic UI prompt appeared on the surface of the large egg.

    Egg Hatching

    Due to: Eight hours combined with [Hot blooded] trait and the satchel¡¯s unique attribute to hatch eggs.

    Roh''s jaw dropped in disbelief, his mind struggling to comprehend what he was seeing. "I can''t believe it..." he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. The egg lay there, a tantalizing mystery waiting to be unraveled.

    The user interface vanished with a soft whirring sound.

    Roh felt the weight of the egg in his palms, the surface rough and warm to the touch. The egg''s movements became more pronounced. Roh''s excitement mounted with each passing moment, his hunger forgotten in the face of this extraordinary event.

    He watched the egg with rapt attention, wondering what kind of creature would hatch from it. The egg was a blank canvas, waiting to be painted with the colors of life. Roh felt a sense of awe at the responsibility he had been entrusted with, the opportunity to witness the birth of a new being.

    The egg began to crack and shift, the sound of its movement amplified by the stillness of the ridge. Roh watched with a mixture of excitement and nervousness as the shell began to fracture, tiny pieces falling away like snowflakes. It was then that he heard it - a faint sound that was almost lost in the murmur of the wind, but yet distinctive. It was the sound of a beak tapping against the inside of the eggshell.

    The tapping grew more insistent, like the sound of raindrops pounding on a tin roof during a storm. Roh could feel the tension building in his chest as he waited in anticipation. Suddenly, there was a cracking sound, sharp and explosive, like a thunderbolt splitting the sky. The small fractures in the shell grew wider, spreading like cracks in a pane of glass.

    Roh held his breath as he watched a very small beak-like snout that resembled a seed appear, extending the perforation with a determined strength. It was as if the hatchling knew that its survival depended on breaking free from its confines. The little beak worked with fierce determination.

    As more of the shell fell away, he caught a glimpse of the hatchling inside - small paws with tiny claws emerging like large tendrils growing from a sprout. The claws were sharp and delicate, like tiny needles piercing through the shell. The hatchling''s body was coated in a slick layer of translucent fluid, glistening like dewdrops on a blade of grass in the early morning sun.

    Finally, the hatchling''s domed head protruded out of the shell, slick with translucent fluid. Roh couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe at the sight before him. The hatchling was so small and yet so powerful, its tiny body quivering with energy and life.

    The scent of damp earth and the acrid tang of the fluid filled Roh''s nostrils, adding to the sensory experience of the moment. As he watched the hatchling take its first breaths, Roh knew that he had witnessed something truly magical.

    Roh felt a surge of emotion welling up inside him as he realized that he was witnessing the beginning of a new life. A wyvern?! In such a small egg?! I guess this little guy is a runt.

    The little wyvern hatchling¡¯s big, watery, saffron coloured eyes looked up at Roh as it imprinted on him.

    Bond Increase +100

    You gained: Level 1 Companion Bond - Imprinted

    Congratulations! You have now imprinted on a wyvern hatchling. It looks up to you as its keeper.

    At last, following what seemed an endless wait, the egg started to crack open. With each tiny fracture, anticipation mounted until finally, the shell gave way and a small, writhing wyvern emerged, covered in translucent fluid and downy feathers. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and the acrid tang of the fluid that coated the newborn creature. It released a high-pitched wail, the sound carrying over the vast expanse of the ridge, reverberating off the craggy rocks, and slipping into the boundless forest beyond.

 Chapter 7 (Part 2): Imprinting Mishap

    As the hatchling emerged from its shell, its crest was adorned with delicate leaves that looked like feathers, each one a vibrant shade of forest green. These feather-like foliage swayed gently in the brisk, moist air of the ridge, mirroring the hatchling''s struggle to liberate itself from its former prison. It seemed as though the hatchling was imbued with the very soul of nature itself, akin to a tiny sprout daringly piercing through the earth''s crust to strive towards the heavens.

    At the tail''s base of the hatchling, a petite leaf shimmered in the subdued light filtering down the ridge, its bright buttercup color standing out against the muted earth tones of the surroundings. The leaf was small, yet vibrant, like a beam of sunshine in a dark forest. It looked as though it had been plucked from a nearby buttercup flower and carefully placed there as a symbol of new life and growth.

    As the hatchling took its first tentative steps, its larger back leaf unfurled, revealing a stunning shade of forest green that seemed to glow in the dim light. The leaf was large, with delicate veins that ran like a network of tiny rivers, carrying life-giving nutrients to every corner of the hatchling''s body. It looked like a verdant shield, protecting the hatchling from the dangers of the world.

    With each movement, the leaves on the hatchling''s crest and back swished and rustled with a gentle whispering sound, like the rustle of leaves in the wind. As the wyvern wriggled and flailed its tiny wings, searching for something to cling to, Roh could feel a rush of adrenaline coursing through his veins, fueling his sense of satisfaction and pride. He held out his arm, offering the wyvern a safe and familiar place to rest. The soft down on the wyvern''s belly tickled his skin as it sniffed at his arm, then nuzzled against it, seeming to recognize him as its own.

    I can¡¯t believe it actually hatched. The wyvern hatchling looked straight up at Roh. It appeared quite peculiar with its neck stretched out and its head flailing backwards as it tried to balance the weight of it. It seemed so innocent and vulnerable as it gazed up at him wide eyed and full of wonder, oblivious to the slaughter that had taken place to its kin.

    As the wyvern nuzzled against Roh''s arm, a soft, melancholic orchestral tune began to play in the background. The mournful notes of the strings seemed to tug at Roh¡¯s heartstrings, while the ethereal voices of a female choir added a transcendent quality to the music, singing in a language that sounded almost Elvish.

    The music seemed to perfectly capture the bittersweet moment - the joy of new life and the sadness of the loss that had come before it. As the melody swelled, Roh couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of emotion welling up inside him. It was clear that the game designers had put a great deal of thought into every aspect of this scene, from the visuals to the music, in order to create a truly immersive experience. The music was just another layer in a carefully crafted world that the player could lose themselves in. Wow the game really wants to hit me in the feels.

    Roh couldn¡¯t help but feel empathetic to the tiny creature¡¯s plight. They shared that in common, both orphans in this savage world. And although Roh wasn¡¯t actually an orphan, he had felt so alone for the last few years and cut off from his family. The familiar ache of longing grew within him. There was no way that this freshly hatched creature, which was not even a day old, could fend for itself. Roh swore an oath to protect this tiny creature at all costs. It blinked its right eye slowly as if reading his thoughts and responding approvingly. He fought back the tears as his eyes began to sting and patted the whelpling¡¯s head as reassurance, ¡°rroa-rroa¡±, it began to make a purr-like sound. It sounded like the baby wyvern was calling his name.

    The foundling¡¯s eyelids grew heavy as it exuded bluish plumes of smoke from its tiny nostrils.

    Bond Increase +150

    You gained: Level 2 Companion Bond - Kindred Spirit

    You both share a similar bind.

    Roh gently lifted the diminutive draconic pup and placed it atop his right shoulder, cradling it with care. Despite its scrawny body, the hatchling possessed a divine strength that Roh could feel emanating from it. Its compact form took up little space on his shoulder, but it radiated an energy that belied its size.

    Companion: Wyvern Hatchling - Level 1

    A small hatchling adorned with delicate feather-like leaves in vibrant shades of forest green. Its back leaf is large and glowing with intricate veins, while a small buttercup-colored leaf sits at the base of its tail.

    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

    Species: Draconic

    Strain: Gen 1 (Critically Endangered)

    Gender: Male

    Rarity: Undiscovered

    Abilities: Undiscovered

    Unique Inherited Traits: Undiscovered

    Element: Undiscovered

    Strengths: Undiscovered

    Weaknesses:  Undiscovered

    Resistances: Undiscovered

    Note: Your bond with the hatchling needs to develop further in order to discover more information.

    Achievement unlocked!

    Companion Acquired

    You are no longer alone in battle.

    I really don¡¯t see how he is going to be able to help me in a battle?! If anything it has made my life harder as I now have another life to worry about it and defend.

    Completed! Main Quest - Obtain a Pathfinder

    Due to obtaining a Wyvern Hatchling.

    It is now your Pathfinder which will help you track Behemoths.

    Rewards:

    1000 XP

    200 Gold

    +100 Pathfinder Research Points

    New Main Quest - Discovering the Whereabouts of the Zulgarn

    As a skilled adventurer, you have been tasked with tracking down this elusive creature

    Objective: Locate the Zulgarn

    Location: Undiscovered

    Recommended Level: 3

    Conditions: None

    Failure Conditions: None

    Rewards:

    1000 XP

    200 Gold

    +100 Pathfinder Research Points

    Pathfinder eh? Wow seems like you are going to be really useful after all!

    Roh¡¯s thoughts were interrupted by a ding sound and another prompt.

    Level Up!

    Level 4

    Title: Hunter Procrastinator

    Are you ever going to do more hunting?

    Max HP +40

    Max Stamina +20

    Two stat points gained.

    Great timing as now my hitpoints have been refilled with an added 40 as well. Any second longer and I would have been knocked out and last a vigor since I didn¡¯t actually get to eat the egg in the end.

    Roh read the title and rolled his eyes. Wish I could hunt you down. Stupid AI.

    He then placed an ability point into agility again and a skill point in the next available slot.

    Sharpened Senses

    Through your distrustful nature, you have honed your keen senses to pick up on anything out of the ordinary giving you 10% Dodge Increase.

    As the hatchling perched on his shoulder, Roh was struck by how light and delicate it felt. Despite its scrawny frame, the hatchling exuded a sense of energy and life that belied its size. Roh couldn''t help but admire the creature''s slender form and long, thin limbs, remarking with a grin, "You''re quite the lanky little fellow, aren''t you?"

    As if retaliating to Roh¡¯s criticism, the wyvern dug its tiny claws into his shoulder.

    ¡°Hey! Stop that! Maybe you¡¯re not so innocent after all.¡± The broodling released its grip and sat up rigidly.

    Well this is going well. I better watch what I say. Didn¡¯t realize it was so sensitive.

    Roh began to feel his stomach churn, the hunger pangs growing with intensity and ferocity, as were the vibrations from the haptic feedback. They¡¯re actually continuing to hurt?! That¡¯s not right is it? The sensations have felt strong, even uncomfortable, but never actually painful. Maybe this hunger is affecting my thinking?

    The overall pain across his lower abdomen now concentrated at the center of his back. This pain feels¡­ external? Like a sharp prong pressed against my back. But before he could move his hand to assess what was causing the feeling, came a voice from behind him. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare make another move! Not unless you want me to skewer you with my Sai.¡±

 Chapter 8 (Part 1): Blades, Bonds & Betrayals

    It was a female¡¯s voice, soft and husky. Is it wrong that I find my potential assailant¡¯s voice attractive? I guess I will soon think differently if she makes good on her promise.

    Roh could feel the nestling tense up upon his shoulder and in the corner of his eye he could just about see it flurry and then almost tumble. It was still very much off balance, having not long hatched. That and being startled by this daunting intruder. Fortunately, the whelpling found its footing and clawed into Roh¡¯s shoulder again. Gah! What¡¯s with all the pain? First hunger, then an assailant and now the hatchling.

    ¡°Now hand over the wyrmling!¡± demanded the woman. ¡°It''ll fetch quite the price at auction." The wyvern hatchling seemed to unsettle at the word and something about the word seemed to bother Roh at his core, but he could not for the life of him understand why. She might have the upper hand, but I won''t stand by, especially when I''ve sworn to protect this wyvern. If she''s eyeing it so keenly, it''s clearly more valuable than I thought.

    Using his [Sharpened Senses] skill, Roh could detect that there was a high chance that the stranger was bluffing and meant no actual harm. It also gave him a 10% increase should he need to dodge the stranger¡¯s weapon.

    Roh grabbed the wyvern hatchling, threw his head back and slammed it into his opponent¡¯s face. With his extra strength, it briefly stunned her and she dropped her weapon. He placed the hatchling back on his shoulder and picked up the weapon pointing it at the woman.

    As Roh turned, he couldn''t help but stand there momentarily frozen with her athletic build, and long, raven hair in a braided Mohawk, as well as her pale blue eyes. Roh was in awe of her beauty. A pity her nose was now bruised and bleeding.

    ¡°What the fuck is wrong with you?! Who does that?¡± shouted the woman as she caressed her injury.

    ¡°Excuse me?! You¡¯re the one going around ambushing me! And what did you expect? You wouldn¡¯t approach a mother with a cub.¡±

    ¡°Ha¡­ok¡­what are you its mother now?¡± retorted the woman as she folded her arms and raised an eyebrow.

    Roh remained silent, but stared back unamused, maintaining his resolve.

    ¡°Anyway, you¡¯re not good at following orders are you? This didn¡¯t need to turn nasty, you imbecile.¡±

    ¡°I can tell you¡¯re not someone to reason with and the hatchling belongs to me. I wasn¡¯t going to hand it over, it¡¯s my find!¡±

    ¡°That wyrmling is not worth all this. Keep it! Can I have my Sai back so I can get as far away from you and this god forsaken place? Seems like there is nothing but trouble around these parts.¡±

    This time the hatchling made swiping motions at the woman at the mention of the word wyrmling and again the word inexplicably made Roh feel agitated from within.

    ¡°Now wait just a minute. I need some answers. Like firstly who are you and why did you surprise attack me? And why do you keep calling the wyvern hatchling a wyrmling?¡± Roh struggled to get the last word out, as if his own body was fighting against it. The draconic whelp winced in response.

    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    ¡°Gah. So many questions. My nose hurts, remember.¡±

    ¡°The sooner you answer, the sooner you can have your weapon back.¡± Roh ripped some cloth from his linen tunic and leaned in to help stop the woman¡¯s nosebleed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t even dare you creep!¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m only trying to help.¡±

    She grabbed the cloth from Roh¡¯s hands and placed it by her nose as she leaned her head forward. She narrowed her eyes with a hint of distrust, cautiously taking Roh in before finally letting out a breath. ¡°The names Lorne, and like you, I¡¯m a player. I think we are now outside the instanced area and just as I exited the cave I noticed you and the wyrm ¨C sorry I mean hatchling ¨C and like I said I haven''t been having much luck in these parts and thought you looked like a noob and it would be really easy to take it from you since you didn¡¯t really look self-aware¡­ no offense.¡± Lorne gave a half-hearted smile.

    Roh passed Lorne back her Sai. ¡°Well Lorne, I do like your fighting spirit and we both know I could use the help,¡± he chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m Roh by the way. Would you care to join my party?¡±

    ¡°Yeah sure, could be fun. But Roh¡­just don¡¯t get all sappy and cheesy on me,¡± winked Lorne.

    Roh added Lorne to his party.

    A notification from the party channel flared up on Roh''s screen, catching his attention.

    Lonely no more! Lorne, bringer of chaos and laughter, has joined the party

    All hail Lorne, the first member of our illustrious group.

    Looks like it''s just Lorne and Roh for now. Better make it a good time.

    Since they were in a party together, the notifications appeared for both of them.

    Seeming to take no notice of the notifications or choosing to ignore them, Lorne inquired, ¡°So what¡¯s your hatchling¡¯s name?¡±

    ¡°I haven¡¯t even had a chance to name him yet. Although wait you still didn¡¯t answer my question on why you have been calling it wyrmling?¡± This time he forced the word out hoping that the more he said it, the less it would affect him, however, it had the opposite effect and he felt a pang of guilt like he was betraying something of which he knew not. The hatchling had had enough of the word and attempted to breathe out fire, however, only plumes of smoke billowed out.

    ¡°Haha, you best stop using that word too. It¡¯s an ancient word that is used for any draconic species, however, it has negative connotations having been derived from the word worm and thus comparing them to worms due to their elongated form. There are actually draconic species that are called wyrms or wurms, but that is because they appear wormlike or snakelike, take your pick ,as they don¡¯t have any appendages. However, the other species that do have appendages do not like to be called that nor any other similar variation as they are highly respectable beasts and the word is diminutive comparing them to such creatures of a lowly class.¡±

    ¡°Ah, I see. Well that makes sense and now I think I get why I don¡¯t like hearing it either since I have Dragon-blood coursing through my veins.¡±

    "Lorne''s eyes widened as she studied Roh, her gaze sweeping over his human-like appearance. ''I must admit, I would have never guessed that you were anything other than human,'' she said, her eyes darting to his armor. ''Your attire does a good job of hiding any potential telltale signs or markings, and your knowledge of the various draconic species seems somewhat limited.''

    Roh shrugged. ¡°I''m sorry, I don''t know much about the different species.¡±

    I jest, just because you picked a certain race to play doesn¡¯t automatically mean you know all the background lore. To be fair, I¡¯ve never tried any of the other races. I¡¯m much too fond of the Half-Elf.¡± She narrowed her eyes and caught a glimpse of a part of a faint tattoo that was visible from where Roh had ripped the cloth from his tunic. ¡°Oh there we go¡­the runic sigils of a Dragon-blood.¡±

    Before Roh could even respond, the vibrations caused a level of pain that left him clutching the jagged surface of the ridge for support. His knees buckled beneath him as he tried to steady himself, his breaths coming in short gasps as he struggled to endure the agony.

    He gripped the rugged surface of the ridge, his fingers burrowing into the stone as waves of pain wracked his body. Sweat beaded on his forehead and trickled into his eyes, clouding his vision.

    The pain he was enduring was beyond his belief. It felt as if his insides were undergoing a brutal assault, and standing upright was becoming an uphill task. He could feel himself wavering, his hold on the rough surface of the ridge gradually weakening.

    Roh checked his HP and noticed that it was down to 30.

    Although Roh had been saved by leveling up, it had only been a temporary solution. While his HP had been reset and increased, his Hunger remained at the max level of 100, causing him to lose health at a rapid pace. The seriousness of the situation suddenly dawned on him as he realized that he had been so preoccupied with the wyvern hatchling and Lorne that he had all but forgotten about his own well-being. While it was just a game, the faulty kit he was using had been causing him significant pain, making the situation even more serious than it would normally be.

    Lorne''s eyes narrowed as she watched Roh double over in pain, her face etched with concern and confusion. "What''s going on?" she asked, her voice laced with worry. "Are you okay?"

 Chapter 8 (Part 2): Blades, Bonds & Betrayals

    Roh groaned and clutched his stomach, his face contorting in agony. "I''m starving," he gasped. "I haven''t had a chance to eat in the game for hours and it''s starting to hurt."

    Lorne''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Hunger can do that in the game?" she asked, looking both concerned and confused. "I didn''t realize it was that realistic."

    Roh nodded weakly and tried to catch his breath. "Yeah, it''s one of the realistic features of the game. It''s a good reminder to take care of my character''s needs, but it can be a real pain sometimes. To be fair it shouldn¡¯t hurt this much. It must be a bug that the devs will update with a hotfix patch."

    Lorne shook her head in amazement and offered Roh a large ration of cooked venison from her inventory. "Well, here, eat this."

    He grabbed it with his free arm and took a bite. ¡°This tastes amazing, thank you!¡± Seeing the food, the hatchling left its post and started pecking at the meat as well.

    ¡°Glad I could help. Seems your little companion is just as hungry.¡± Roh watched as Lorne approached his hatchling wyvern, a piece of raw meat clutched in her hand. The wyvern sat perched on Roh''s shoulder, its eyes fixed on the food with interest.

    As Lorne held out her hand carrying the meat, the aroma of fresh blood and seared flesh permeated the air, intermingling with the earthy scent of the ridge. The wyvern hatchling swiveled its head towards Roh, locking him in its large, inquisitive eyes. Roh could sense a bond kindling between them, as the hatchling seemed to seek his approval before diverting its attention back to Lorne''s proffered meal.

    With slow and measured movements, Lorne held out the meat to the hatchling, her hand shaking ever so slightly. The hatchling sniffed at the offering, its nose twitching with anticipation. It was as if the scent of the meat had awakened some primal instinct within it, driving it to take what it needed to survive.

    To Roh''s surprise, the tiny creature took the meat gently from Lorne''s hand, its tiny claws barely grazing her skin. With impressive speed and voracity, it began to devour the meat, tearing at it with razor-sharp teeth and swallowing it down in large chunks.

    The sight was truly astonishing, like watching a miniature dragon feasting on its prey. The hatchling''s movements were quick and agile, its wings fluttering in excitement as it consumed the meat with gusto. Roh could feel the intensity of its hunger, the way it seemed to consume not just the food, but the very essence of life itself.

    As the hatchling ate, its eyes never left Roh''s face, as if seeking his approval and guidance.

    As Roh finished the last of his meal, an alert flashed on the screen, signaling a new party notification.

    Attention all players! We have a new development in the party: Lorne has gained the wild hatchling¡¯s affection. Roh, looks like you have some competition for that wyvern''s affection. Better step up your bonding game!

    Roh couldn''t help but feel grateful to Lorne for everything she had just provided, his hunger pains finally subsiding and his hunger finally down to 0. He had been starving and he knew he couldn''t have lasted much longer without some food.

    But as he watched Lorne and his hatchling wyvern bond over the meal and especially after reading the system notification on the party channel, he couldn''t shake the feeling of jealousy. After their first bond due to the imprinting, Roh had been struggling to bond with his wyvern, but it seemed like Lorne had won the creature''s affection in an instant.

    Roh tried to push the feelings aside, reminding himself that he should be grateful for Lorne''s help. But a small part of him couldn''t help but feel like he should have been the one to provide for his own hatchling, and that he had somehow failed in his role as its caretaker.

    "Hey, is everything okay?" Lorne asked, studying Roh''s face with a concerned expression. "You''re looking a little green with envy over here. Don''t worry, I''m sure your hatchling loves you just as much as it loves me."

    Roh''s face reddened as he realized that Lorne had caught him feeling jealous. He hoped she hadn''t noticed the disappointment on his face when he saw her bonding with his hatchling and that she was only basing it from the party notification.

    "Uh, yeah, I''m fine," Roh said awkwardly, trying to play it cool. "I was just, uh, wondering if there was any more of that venison left. You know, for the hatchling. And, uh, not for me or anything."

    Lorne chuckled and patted Roh on the shoulder. "There''s always more food where that came from. These lands are teeming with prey for us to hunt down, not to mention there is a Town just up ahead not too far from here. It has quite a few shops, a Tavern and an Auction House."

    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.

    "Oh, there''s a town up ahead with lots of shops?" Roh asked, his eyes lighting up at the prospect of restocking on supplies. "How do you know all this?"

    "I bought a map at the town," Lorne replied with a grin. "It''s not far from here, and it''s got everything we need. Plus, I just leveled up to 8, so I¡¯m in need of new gear. My current gear is level 4."

    Roh''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You just leveled up to 8? That''s amazing! I''ve just hit level 4."

    Lorne chuckled and patted Roh on the back. "Don''t worry, we all progress at different rates. And I was lucky enough to spawn in the town, so I had a head start on getting supplies and gear."

    Roh nodded. He couldn''t wait to see what the town had to offer and maybe even level up himself. But first, they had to make it there.

    "Hey, Lorne, do you think it would be okay if we headed back towards the town?" Roh asked, trying to sound casual. "I¡¯m in need of a better weapon."

    Lorne smiled and nodded. "Sure, I don''t mind going back that way. In fact, I was thinking we could do some hunting on the way. It''ll be a good opportunity for us to level up and get some extra gold."

    Roh''s face lit up at the prospect of hunting and leveling up. "That sounds great! I could use the experience and gold. Let''s do it."

    As the wyvern hatchling finished the last bits of venison, it let out a satisfied belch and then proceeded to flutter its wings. It then did a little dance, as if celebrating its full belly.

    Roh found himself chuckling at the hatchling''s playful antics, feeling a surge of affection in his chest as he watched it cavort about. He couldn''t help but let out a happy sigh, feeling content and at ease in the moment.

    "Looks like someone''s got a case of the warm and fuzzies," Lorne said, with a grin as she noticed Roh stroking the wyvern hatchling. "You know, giving it a name is a surefire way to increase your bond with it."

    Roh''s eyes widened as he realized she was right. He had been so focused on caring for the hatchling, he hadn''t even thought about giving it a name. "You''re right," he said, smiling sheepishly. "I''ll have to think of something special."

    Lorne gave a nonchalant shrug, her expression softening as she looked at Roh with understanding. "Don''t worry, it''ll come to you. And when it does, you''ll see how much your bond with your little companion will grow."

    Roh nodded and looked at his hatchling with a new perspective, thinking of a fitting name for his companion that would honor it and signify their bond.

    As he watched the hatchling playfully rolling and wiggling on the ground, his body infused with sporadic leafy plumage, Roh pondered a name for his hatchling. He wanted to find the perfect moniker that would capture the essence of the leafy little creature.

    All at once, a spark of inspiration ignited within him. The essence of the taro plant, which the young creature bore a resemblance to.

    Roh smiled and said, "Taro. That''s your name. Taro." The hatchling seemed to sense the importance of the moment and stopped rolling. It wagged its tail in response to its new name and looked up at Roh with its bright, intelligent eyes.

    As Roh observed the hatchling, he noticed that it appeared to tire of its play and began to flutter its wings in an attempt to get back onto his shoulder. Despite its energetic flapping, the hatchling''s wings were not strong enough to lift its long-limbed body. Acting without hesitation, Roh reached down and picked up the hatchling with gentle care, cradling it in his arms.

    Taro nuzzled into Roh''s chest and let out a contented sigh, before climbing and curling up on his shoulder, its eyes closing as it drifted off to sleep. Aren¡¯t you cute when sleeping and not digging your sharp claws into me.

    [Party Notification]: Bond level between Roh and Taro has increased! Congratulations on giving your companion a name, Roh. Looks like Taro is one step closer to becoming your ultimate wingman.

    "Taro, huh? Suits him. Looks like he''s not just your pet anymore, but your companion." Lorne chuckled and clapped Roh on the back. "Alright, let''s get moving. We''ve got some beasts to slay and treasure to collect."

    With a nod of agreement, they began their descent from the ridge, the stark world of jagged rocks and biting winds giving way to a realm of softer paths and silver leaves. Their heavy boots crunched lightly on the leaf-strewn pathway, each leaf shimmering under the gaze of the primordial light. The change in the surroundings was gradual, like a slow shifting of hues on an artist''s canvas, from monochrome to vibrant colors. The ridge''s relentless winds had mellowed, growing warmer against their skin and carrying with them the revitalizing scent of the Silvergrove. It was as if they had stepped from one existence into another, the harsh reality of the ridge transforming into the enchanted, ethereal reality of the woodland.

    DISCOVERED NEW LOCATION: SILVERGROVE

    Without warning, the azure expanse above was suddenly engulfed by a vivid surge of violet. The warm, bright primordial light that had moments ago dappled the silvery leaves of the Silvergrove was usurped by an uncanny glow, tinged a disconcerting shade of purple. The ethereal landscape of the woodland, so familiar yet so alien, bathed in this strange radiance, and the once comforting sounds of nature were replaced with an eerie silence.

    Roh cast his gaze upwards, a wash of confusion rippling across his rugged, battle-etched visage. His gameplay experience held no precedent for such an event. Neither the patch notes nor the gaming forums had mentioned anything of this sort. What could possibly be going on? Taro, his wyvern hatchling, stirred uneasily in its sleep on Roh''s shoulder.

    Just as he was about to dismiss this as some bizarre visual glitch, an icy wind swept across the grove. It bore the scent of decaying leaves, the damp earth, and something far more sinister. A gnawing sense of dread twisted within his gut.

    In the midst of an eerie quiet, a laughter ¡ª as cold as a frostbitten dawn ¡ª filled the air. From the deepest shadows of Silvergrove, a silhouette took form. Cloaked in aged ebony robes, its face hidden beneath a hood, it felt older than the forest itself. When it lifted grotesque decaying hands, with pieces missing and maggots tunneling through the rotten remnants, the ground beneath Roh trembled with an ancient force.

 Chapter 8 (Part 3): Blades, Bonds & Betrayals

    Before Roh could even grasp the situation, the earth before him erupted. From this sudden rift, two massive beings of bone emerged, their towering forms emanating the foul odor of decay.

    Beside him, Lorne, spun her sais with a fluid grace, her eyes narrowed and alert. "Well, this wasn''t in the patch notes," she quipped with a dry humor, yet the tension in her stance spoke of her underlying concern.

    The figure then drew back its hood, revealing a face marked by time and decay. With eyes deep-set in a pale, withering face, the identity was clear: a necromancer. His smile, blackened by rot, broadened, and his eerie laughter further unsettled Roh''s very soul.

    "Welcome, barbarian," the necromancer''s voice slithered forth like a venomous hiss, every syllable sending a shiver down Roh''s spine. "Welcome to the Umbral Veil!."

    Roh''s grip on his Greataxe tightened, his eyes darting between the menacing necromancer and his monstrous minions. He was in the dark about this event, but he was certain of one thing ¨C it was a deadly game of kill or be killed.

    "Umbral Veil: Rift of the Necromancer''s Abominations" has manifested.

    [QUANTUM KERNEL ERROR: 0xQF4A9BC - Quantum Decryption Failure]

    [CRITICAL] Blockchain Sync Lost: Invalid quantum state detected in block #9876543. Integrity check failed.

    [DEBUG] Quantum trace:

    - 0xQFA00104 DecryptBlock <quantum module> QuantumCore.dll

    Attempting autonomous quantum recovery protocols...

    "Hmmm¡­ " he murmured, his eyes scanning the words.

    He took a deep breath, steadying himself. "Seems buggy. This could be really unstable."

    In the disquieting glow of the purple hue, Roh and Lorne stood their ground, bracing themselves against the suffocating miasma of decay that the skeletal behemoths exuded. Taro, awakening from his rest, let out a distressed squawk, flapping his wings and stirring the air, dispersing some of the oppressive stench.

    The necromancer, drawing himself to his full height, commanded, "Kneel, trespassers. This realm is now under my dominion."

    Lorne smirked, spinning her sais with practiced ease. "I kneel to no one, especially not to a pile of decaying bones playing dress-up." Her tone was dripping with contempt.

    Roh shot her a warning glance, then focused his attention on the looming threats. He whispered to her, "What are you doing? We don''t even know its level. Let''s not piss it off. You might get us both killed!?"

    Before she could respond, the skeletal monstrosities lunged forward. Their movements, though seemingly ungainly, bore an unexpected agility, catching Roh and Lorne momentarily off-guard.

    Lorne was swift, dodging an outstretched bony hand, her sais finding their mark in the gaps of the creature''s ribcage. Simultaneously, Roh swung his Greataxe, the blade singing as it cleaved through the air, embedding itself into the other creature''s femur with a resounding crunch.

    Taro, now fully awake and sensing the danger, unleashed a gout of blue flame from his tiny maw. It danced across the clearing, scorching the edge of the necromancer''s robe.

    Enraged, the necromancer raised his grotesque hands and chanted in a tongue that seemed to belong to the shadows themselves. The air thickened, and the temperature dropped drastically. Wisps of cold, ethereal energy began to converge around him.

    "We need a plan," Lorne gasped, pulling her sais free from the skeletal creature.

    ¡°Oh, now you want to make a plan!?¡± Trying to think fast, his eyes darting about, taking in their surroundings and seeking any advantage. "We need to target the necromancer. The minions are just distractions."

    As the minions bore down upon them, Roh felt a gentle nudge on his shoulder. Taro, his wings now spread wide, let out a pulsating glow from his chest, a hue that eerily matched the surrounding violet. The wyvern hatchling''s eyes locked onto the rift and began to resonate, emitting a hum that intertwined with the very essence of the Umbral Veil.

    Roh could feel the connection, an umbilical tie of energy between Taro and the nefarious rift. For a moment, time seemed to stand still. With unwavering trust in his companion, Roh placed a hand on Taro''s scales. The sensation was immediate and intense, like a rush of power surging through his veins, but it was accompanied by an undercurrent of clarity.

    Drawing from Taro''s newfound ability to manipulate the Umbral Veil, Roh channeled this energy through his Greataxe, transforming it into a beacon of violet light. He charged towards the necromancer, his weapon poised for a strike that would resonate with the very power the dark sorcerer had sought to command.

    Seeing the oncoming threat, the necromancer, in his hubris, attempted to counteract. But the violet force Roh wielded was now beyond his control. The blade of the axe connected, and a shockwave of energy, like a tempest unleashed, cascaded from the point of impact.

    When the haze cleared, Roh found the necromancer and his abominations had vanished. The once distorted land began to right itself. The eerie purple gave way to the familiar azure sky, and the woodland''s primordial glow returned. A hush enveloped the Silvergrove, the world seeming to take a collective breath, healing from the rupture of the Umbral Veil. Yet, beneath the tranquility lay an undertone of melancholy.

    Lorne rushed to Roh''s side, her eyes darting towards Taro. The wyvern hatchling, clearly drained from the ordeal, was different. A prominent scar, dark and jagged, now marred his once-smooth scales. And, to Roh''s dismay, the single, delicate leaf that had adorned Taro''s back since he''d hatched had fallen, its edges withered.

    Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.

    Lorne''s gaze sharpened at the sight of Taro''s state, her usual steely demeanor softened just slightly by a flicker of concern.

    Gently, with fingers still adjusting to the touch of the hatchling''s scales, Roh picked up the fragile leaf. It felt even more delicate than it looked. He carefully placed it in his satchel. Feeling a little sentimental, he carefully placed it in his satchel.

    Unsure of what to say in situations like this, Roh blurted out, ¡°Hey, I haven¡¯t had you long so don¡¯t go dying on me now¡­ that''d really not look good on me." He followed it with a nervous chuckle and an awkward smile.

    Taro chirped weakly, tilting his head slightly as if acknowledging Roh''s sentiment.

    Bond Increase +200

    You gained: Level 3 Companion Bond - Kinship Forged

    Congratulations! Your bond with the wyvern hatchling has deepened. Through enduring a monumental challenge and mutual understanding, Taro perceives you as more than a keeper - you share a kindred spirit.

    Your strengthened bond has unlocked a new ability for Taro:

    [Veil''s Embrace]

    This ability, which was inadvertently invoked during your recent encounter, seems to harness the power of the Umbral Veil. Its potential and limitations are unknown, so exercise extreme caution when attempting to use it. Cultivate this unique relationship to uncover further capabilities and deepen your mutual trust.

    Roh stared at the notification for a moment, a mix of awe and trepidation in his eyes. He gently brushed his fingers over Taro''s newly formed scar, feeling the texture of the jagged mark against the smooth scales.

    "We... we unlocked something. With all things considered I appreciate that bud," he whispered, his voice filled with wonder and a hint of concern. He felt Taro''s warmth against his hand, a faint pulsing that seemed to resonate with the newfound ability. The bond they shared was tangible, more profound than mere companionship.

    "And it¡¯s called Veil''s Embrace, huh?" Roh mused aloud. "Sounds powerful, but also dangerous. We need to be cautious, Taro. We''re in uncharted territory here."

    He felt a soft nuzzle from the hatchling, a sensation akin to reassurance. "We''ll figure it out," Roh promised, securing the wyvern on his shoulder.

    The atmosphere changed palpably as they moved away from the battleground. Both adventurers found themselves at a loss for words, the gravity of their encounter weighing heavily upon them. Their eyes, while alert for any lurking danger, also carried a far-off look, each lost in their thoughts, processing the enormity of the event they''d just faced.

    They started walking in silence, the fallen leaves crunching beneath their boots, creating a rhythmic cadence that was almost hypnotic. With every step, the past''s echoes seemed to grow fainter, but the memories remained, casting long shadows. The path before them seemed to stretch endlessly, the weight of their recent encounter slowing their steps.

    After a time, Roh''s practicality broke the contemplative silence. As Roh and Lorne walked along the path, he turned to her and said, "You know, we should probably summon our mounts to get to the town quicker."

    Lorne let out a skeptical laugh and rolled her eyes, "You''re delusional, Roh. Look around us, we don¡¯t have mounts. We''re not even level 10 yet. How would we afford them?"

    Roh couldn''t help but grin, feeling a sense of satisfaction as he pulled at the silver whistle around his neck. "I happen to have an auroch mount that I can summon," he said, blowing into it with a loud, clear tone causing Taro to stir from his deep slumber. The little creature, who had been curled up on Roh''s shoulder, opened his eyes, his bright pupils widening with surprise at the sudden noise.

    Taro''s tiny nostrils twitched as he sniffed the air, his small wings flapping excitedly as he caught the scent of the auroch. He let out a soft chirp, almost like a purr, as he rubbed his head against Roh''s neck, his excitement palpable.

    There was a moment of silence before a loud bellow echoed through the valley.

    As the sound of the auroch''s bellow filled the air, Taro''s ears perked up, and he let out a delighted squeal, his body trembling with anticipation. He could sense the energy in the air, the raw power of the auroch, and it thrilled him to no end.

    With a sudden burst of energy, Taro took flight, his tiny wings beating furiously as he soared above Roh''s head.

    Lorne''s eyes widened as Noona appeared in the distance.

    "Wow, where did you get an auroch mount?" Lorne asked, her tone filled with envy.

    "I got lucky," Roh replied, feeling a sense of pride. "I got it from an NPC that I met soon after I started the game. It''s pretty uncommon for someone to get a mount this early on, but I''m not complaining."

    Lorne shook her head in amazement, "Well, I guess you''re ahead of the game for once. Looks like you''re the one leading the way now."

    Roh watched with excitement as Nooma charged towards him, her hooves pounding against the ground with an earth-shattering force. The auroch''s eyes blazed with fury, and its nostrils flared with each powerful breath it took. Its thick, muscular body rippled with tension as it approached, ready to unleash its full strength.

    As Noona drew nearer, Roh could feel the wind whipping past him, carrying with it the scent of grass and sweat. He could hear the sound of her snarls and the pounding of her hooves, growing louder and more intense with each passing moment.

    And then, with a sudden burst of energy, Noona collided with him, her horns slamming into his chest with a deafening thud. Roh was sent flying through the air, his body twisting and turning before crashing down onto the ground with a bone-jarring impact. He could feel the rough, jagged terrain scraping against his skin as he rolled across the ground, the world spinning around him in a dizzying blur. His HP decreasing from 30 down to 15.

    For a moment, Roh lay still, stunned and disoriented. The embarrassment and shame flooded through him like a tidal wave, making his cheeks burn with humiliation.

    He could feel Lorne''s eyes on him, her gaze filled with a mixture of concern and amusement.

    As he struggled to his feet, Roh could feel her judgment, and it only added to his embarrassment.

    Physically, he felt sore all over, his muscles aching from the impact of the fall. His chest felt tight, and he could feel a sharp pain in his ribs where the Noona''s horns had struck him. His hands shook with a mixture of adrenaline and shame, and he could feel the sweat beading on his forehead.

    Despite it all, Roh tried to maintain his composure, but he knew that he had failed miserably.

    Taro landed back onto his shoulder, curling up once again.

    "The lady certainly knows how to make an entrance," Lorne remarked, breaking the awkward silence. Noona stood tall, her massive muscles rippling under her thick, shaggy coat.

    ¡°That¡¯s one way of putting it,¡± said Roh, still nursing his bruised body and more so his bruised ego.

    Roh stepped forward, offering her his hand, "Here, let me help you up." Lorne took his hand, "Don''t get any ideas, I just need a boost," she said with a smirk.

    As Roh mounted Noona and Lorne settled into place behind Roh, she wrapped her arms around him tightly as they set off.

 Chapter 9 (Part 1): Ambushed

    Roh couldn¡¯t help but feel awkward around Lorne, feeling a little embarrassed and unsure of how to act around her. He tried to focus on guiding Noona and the journey ahead, but he couldn''t shake off the feeling of Lorne''s arms around him and the way her breath tickled his ear.

    They rode in silence, both lost in their own thoughts.

    As they set off towards the town, Roh couldn''t wait to see what adventures and challenges lay ahead. He was grateful to have Lorne, Taro and the Noona by his side, and he was determined to make the most of their journey together.

    Roh urged Noona forward as they navigated the rocky and barren landscape, moving quickly over the hardy grass and scrub brush. The auroch was sure-footed and agile, effortlessly making her way through the rough terrain.

    As they ventured deeper into the Silvergrove, the rugged, unpredictable terrain gradually transitioned to a smoother, even pathway. Noona quickened her pace, her strong muscles undulating powerfully beneath them as she galloped. The woodland thickened around them, the towering trees closing in like an emerald sea, their rustling leaves whispering secrets in the wind. Her hooves pounded rhythmically against the forest floor, marking their passage through the ethereal woodland.

    As they rode through the forest, they were able to take in the beauty of the forest in a way they couldn''t on foot, they felt the cool breeze blowing through their hair and the smell of pine and wildflowers. Noona seemed to know the way and with her powerful legs, she was able to navigate through the sharp cliffs and jagged stones.

    They left the rocky and barren landscape behind, and they felt like they were in a different world altogether.

    After a period of time riding, Roh and Lorne decided to dismount Noona. They both felt the need to stretch their legs and give their mount a break from carrying them. They led Noona to a nearby clearing, where she could graze on the lush grass.

    As they stepped off Noona''s back, Lorne let out a sigh of relief, "It feels good to be on solid ground again," she said as she stretched her legs. Roh nodded in agreement, "Yeah, it''s been a while since we last stopped. Noona could use a break too."

    As Lorne walked ahead of him, Roh took it as an opportunity to examine her character as he had been wanting to know more about her character since they first met, but hadn¡¯t had a good opportunity until now.

    Lorne''s attire was the epitome of a badass monk. She wore a form-fitting tunic of midnight black, its fabric a blend of silk and shadow, hugging her lithe frame as she moved with feline grace. Intricate, silver embroidery adorned the garment, depicting ancient runes and symbols that whispered tales of power and mysticism.

    Around her waist, a wide belt of supple, dark leather held a myriad of meticulously crafted pouches and loops, each filled with the tools and trinkets befitting a seasoned adventurer. Her legs were encased in snug leggings, woven with enchanted fibers that seemed to shimmer and flicker with every stride, like the dance of a thousand fireflies in the night.

    Her feet were clad in sturdy, yet lightweight, boots made of dragonhide, their soles nearly silent against the ground. The boots, reinforced with metallic accents, bore the scars of previous battles.

    The crowning glory of her ensemble was a flowing, hooded cloak that seemed to ripple and sway with a life of its own. Imbued with the hues of twilight, the cloak draped over her shoulders and cascaded down her back, the edges trailing like tendrils of mist.

    In this attire, Lorne''s presence resonated with an air of untamed power, her every movement a symphony of strength and precision. It was clear she was a force to be reckoned with, a master of her craft and an invaluable ally in these treacherous realms

    Roh''s gaze, as sharp as a falcon''s, locked onto her center, causing the virtual air to tingle with electric anticipation. Within seconds, a radial dial shimmered into existence, suspended in the world space like a constellation of possibilities. The diegetic UI, awash in iridescent hues, was an elegant marriage of form and function.

    His eyes flitted from one option to another, finally resting on ''Inspect.'' The choice pulsed with a subtle vibrancy, as if infused with the essence of Lorne''s digital soul. As Roh''s unwavering gaze filled the option, the radial dial responded, peeling back the layers of Lorne''s virtual persona.

    Lawless Lorne - Level 8

    Title: Skilled Pursuer

    Harnessing both physical prowess and mental discipline, Lorne has become a formidable hunter in their own right.

    Race: Half-elf

    Class: Monk

    Background: Outlander

    Primary Attributes (Vitals):

    HP: 500/500

    Defense: 15/15 (Natural Defense)

    Ki: 100/100

    Stamina: 330/330

    Vigor: 3/3

    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    Lorne turned around and caught sight of Roh staring intensely at her. "Oh, I see you''re admiring the view. Careful, though - prolonged staring may lead to a crush, and I don''t want to be held responsible for any broken hearts!"

    Roh''s face flushed a deep crimson, his eyes darting away for a moment as he stuttered an apology. "Oh, I''m so sorry!" He swallowed hard, his hands nervously fidgeting with the hem of his shirt. "I didn''t mean to make you uncomfortable. I was just... umm... inspecting your character!" He chuckled nervously, trying to regain his composure.

    She let out a soft laugh, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she placed a hand on her hip. "Well, in that case, Inspector, I hope my character has left a good impression. Just remember, it''s not polite to stare too long ¨C even if you''re conducting an investigation!" She winked playfully, a warm smile gracing her lips as she took the situation in stride.

    Deciding to change the topic, she gestured towards the surrounding forest. "Shall we explore the area?" They strolled around the clearing together, immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of the lush woodland. Lorne marveled at the beauty of the vibrant foliage, while Roh kept his eyes peeled for tracks and signs of any other presence in their vicinity.

    Skill Level Up! Tracking Lv3

    New Active Ability ¨C [Identify Species Lv2]

    You can now identify the useful materials that can be obtained from a behemoth. When activated, this ability will scan the behemoth and display a list of potential materials that can be dropped or harvested, along with their rarity and value.

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    BESTIARY

    Discoveries 2%

    Behemoths

    Unlocked! Research Level 2 - Materials

    Roh''s face filled with joy and contentment as he realized the potential of the new ability he had unlocked.

    Upon examining the available options, Roh accessed his Bestiary. Excitement washed over him as he discovered that he had unlocked the second research level. He eagerly scrolled down the page, where he was pleased to see that the section below the Zulgarn''s materials, which had previously been empty, was now overflowing with new and valuable details.

    Behemoth Materials - Zulgarn:

    Dropped:

    Zulgarn Claws - Common

    Carved:

    Thick Zulgarn Hide - Uncommon

    Bony Zulgarn Plates - Uncommon

    Behemoth Armor Set - Zulgarn:

    Zulgarn Helm - A fearsome helmet crafted from the bony plates of the Zulgarn. The helmet features menacing horns and spikes that strike fear into the hearts of its enemies.

    Zulgarn Chestplate - A heavy chestplate crafted from the thick hide of the Zulgarn. The chestplate provides excellent protection against physical attacks and bladed weapons.

    Zulgarn Gauntlets - Powerful gauntlets crafted from the claws of the Zulgarn and reinforced with bony spikes. The gauntlets grant increased strength and damage in close combat.

    Zulgarn Greaves - Sturdy greaves crafted from the bony plates of the Zulgarn. The greaves provide exceptional protection against physical attacks and bladed weapons.

    Set Bonus: [Zulgarn Rampage]

    When wearing the full Behemoth Armor Set for the Zulgarn, the player gains the Zulgarn Rampage ability. Once per hunt, the player can activate this ability to transform into a powerful Zulgarn, granting increased strength, speed, and damage resistance for a limited time. The transformation also causes a shockwave that stuns nearby enemies and knocks them back. This set bonus is incredibly powerful and can turn the tide of any hunt, making it a highly coveted armor set for skilled hunters.

    That armor set looks insane. I need to get it! Roh closed the Bestiary and put it away.

    They decided to take a break and rest for a while, taking in their surroundings and enjoying the tranquility of the forest. Lorne sat down on a nearby rock, and Roh unsheathed his skinning knife and analyzed its sharpness.

    Skinning Knife Sharpness: Blunt

    Note: Blades in the game ranged from:

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400">dull at less than 25% sharpness, </li>

    </ul>

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400">blunt at less than 50%, </li>

    </ul>

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400">sharp at less than 75%</li>

    </ul>

    <ul>

    <li style="font-weight: 400"> and honed at over 75%. </li>

    </ul>

    The sharpness affects the overall effectiveness of a weapon¡¯s blade: the base damage, critical damage, crit chance as well as how often a blade bounces off a target¡¯s armor and thus whether the attack results in a miss.

    Hmm¡­ definitely needs sharpening. Roh sat on the ground, sharpening his knife with practiced precision on a whetstone. He ran the blade along the whetstone, the sound of metal on rock filling the air.

    Nice, almost at 100 percent! As he honed his blade with steady strokes against the whetstone, Roh glanced over at Lorne, admiring her focus as she went over her gear, checking for any signs of wear or tear. She looked up and caught his gaze, a small smile playing on her lips. Roh quickly looked back down at his knife, feeling a flush rise in his cheeks.

    Roh continued to sharpen his knife with a steady hand, the sound of metal scraping against stone filling the air around them. He looked up from his work to see Lorne''s face etched with worry, her eyes scanning the forest. The tension in her body was palpable, and he could feel it radiating off her like waves of heat.

    "Is everything okay?" Roh asked, concern lacing his voice. He could feel his heart rate increasing as he took a step closer to her, his senses on high alert. "You seem a bit on edge."

    Lorne hesitated before responding, her eyes still scanning the area. "I can''t shake the feeling that we''re being watched," she said in a hushed tone, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Suddenly, they heard a snapping sound coming from the bushes nearby, and they both froze in place. They exchanged a quick glance, and Roh could see the uncertainty etched on Lorne''s face.

    "What was that?" Lorne whispered.

    Roh gripped his knife tighter, his knuckles turning white as he prepared himself for the worst. "I don''t know, but I''m ready for it," he said, his voice firm.

 Chapter 9 (Part 2): Ambushed

    They waited in silence, their eyes scanning the bushes for any signs of movement. Suddenly, a small rabbit hopped out, grazing on the foliage. Roh let out a sigh of relief and chuckled to himself. "It''s just a rabbit," he said with a grin, his voice filled with amusement.

    Lorne rolled her eyes at Roh''s comment, but couldn''t help but smile at his lightheartedness. "I know, I know," she replied, "but old habits die hard. Can''t blame a girl for being cautious."

    Roh grinned, feeling a sense of relief flood through him. "Well, I think it''s time for you to take a break and let your hair down. We''re on an adventure, we should enjoy it!" he said, slinging his arm around her shoulder.

    As they continued on their journey, Roh stumbled over a rock, nearly losing his balance. He quickly regained his footing, clutching Taro tightly to his shoulder to keep the young creature safe. Lorne caught him and helped him steady himself, her grip strong and reassuring.

    "Looks like your guard is never up," Lorne quipped with a grin, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "As a hunter, one should always be aware of one''s surroundings."

    Roh let out a chuckle, feeling a sense of ease wash over him. "Yeah, I guess I got a little too caught up in the moment," he said, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

    "Just make sure to keep your eyes on the environment and not just on me," Lorne said playfully, her voice light and teasing.

    The peacefulness of the surrounding was suddenly disrupted by Noona, who let out a loud bellow of warning. The couple quickly sprang into action, drawing their weapons and preparing to defend themselves.

    Emerging from the shadows, a trio of ominous figures loomed before them, their faces twisted in cruel grins. As the trio of figures emerged from the shadows, their silhouettes seemed to grow larger and more menacing with every step. The cruel grins on their faces were like slashes of a knife, and the glint in their eyes was like the reflection of a predator stalking its prey. "Looks like these lovebirds were too busy flirting to notice us coming," one of them said with a chuckle.

    "Next time we''ll make sure to keep a vigilant watch for any brooding thugs lurking in the shadows,¡± remarked Lorne, her eyes defiant.

    ¡°We¡¯ve been ambushed,¡± said Roh, somewhat still in shock.

    "Thanks for stating the obvious, Roh," Lorne said, rolling her eyes. "Now, can you focus on finding a way to get us out of this mess?"

    "Ah, look lads, a lovers'' spat," one of the figures jeered, eliciting laughter from the others.

    As the three figures closed in on Roh and Lorne, the couple quickly assessed their surroundings, looking for any advantage they could use in the fight. They were standing in a clearing, surrounded by dense forest and rocky terrain. The sky was overcast and dark, with a thick blanket of clouds covering the primordial light. The wind was blowing fiercely, sending leaves and twigs flying around them, making it harder to see and hear. The air was heavy with the scent of rain, and it was obvious that a storm was brewing.

    Roh decided to try and use [Identify Species] on the figures not sure if it would work on them. Fortunately, to his surprise it did.

    Henchmen 1: The Brash Brute - Level 5 (Human)

    Henchmen 2: The Grimy Goon - Level 5 (Human)

    Henchmen 3: The Deadly Drunkard - Level 5 (Human)

    The first henchman, known as the Brash Brute, loomed over Roh and Lorne with his massive six-foot-tall frame and muscular build. His dark, weathered skin and thick beard spoke of a rugged life in the wilderness. His deep-set eyes glinted with a fierce determination, like a predator on the prowl. He wielded a massive battleaxe that appeared too heavy for a mere mortal to handle. His movements were slow and deliberate, as if he was gathering momentum like an avalanche.

    The second henchman, named the Grimy Goon, was a repulsive sight to behold. His small, wiry frame was covered in a layer of grime and dirt that made him seem like a creature from the sewers. His shifty eyes were bloodshot and set deep within his skull, giving him a menacing appearance. His perpetual smirk betrayed a deceitful nature, as if he took pleasure in the pain of others. He twirled a rusted dagger in his hand as he circled Roh and Lorne, his movements quick and agile, like a snake ready to strike. The stench of sweat and filth emanating from the Grimy Goon made it clear that he was not to be trifled with.

    The third henchman, the Deadly Drunkard, stumbled around with a broken bottle in hand. His tattered, stained clothes and red, puffy face hinted at years of heavy drinking. His eyes glinted with wildness, like a caged animal about to break free. The stench of alcohol permeated the air around him.

    The trio closed in on Roh and Lorne with a cocky swagger, grinning wickedly as they prepared to attack. The brute let out a deep, rumbling growl, the Goon giggled maliciously, and the drunkard hiccuped and swayed from side to side.

    Roh and Lorne tensed up, their muscles coiled and ready to strike. The henchmen circled around them, like vultures circling a fresh kill.

    Roh and Lorne found themselves outnumbered as the brash brute, Grimy Goon, and deadly drunkard closed in on them. They circled the duo, grinning wickedly as they prepared to attack.

    Noona was stationed nearby, watching the fight with a sense of alertness and readiness. The massive beast was used to the chaos of battle, and she stood calmly, her eyes scanning the area for any potential threat.

    If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    The brute charged forward with a bellow, swinging his axe in a wild arc. Roh and Lorne separated, dodging the attack.

    Taro had slept through all the noise, but was jostled from its slumber by the chaos and violence surrounding it. Roh''s sudden movements, meant to evade and overpower the henchmen, nearly knocked the delicate creature from his shoulder. In a moment of panic, Taro''s claws dug into the fabric of Roh''s tunic, gripping tightly as it sought to find purchase and steady itself amidst the turmoil. As Taro''s claws dug into the fabric of his tunic and his skin, Roh felt a sharp sting of pain. He winced and gritted his teeth, trying to focus on the fight and not let the pain distract him.

    The tiny creature looked around in confusion and alarm, its wings flapping wildly as it tried to make sense of what was happening. Roh quickly noticed Taro''s distress and tried to soothe the creature while he fought, speaking to it in a calm and reassuring voice. But Taro, not used to the chaos of battle, panicked sensing danger and quickly sought refuge behind Noona''s massive legs, using the auroch as a shield from the violent scene.

    The Goon took advantage of the opening to lunge at Lorne with his dagger. She parried his attack with her sai, the clash of metal ringing through the air.

    Meanwhile, the drunkard stumbled towards Roh, swinging his broken bottle in a haphazard manner. Roh sidestepped the attack, grabbing the drunkard by his collar and throwing him to the ground. The brute swung his axe once again, forcing Roh to retreat as he dodged the deadly blade.

    The Goon circled around Lorne, striking at her from behind. She spun around, using her sai to deflect the attack and kick the Goon in the chest. He stumbled back, tripping over the drunkard as he fell to the ground.

    The brute''s rage mode kicked in, his eyes glowing with a fierce determination as he charged towards Roh once again. Roh dodged to the side, slicing his knife across the brute''s arm. The brute let out a roar of pain, but refused to go down.

    The drunkard got back up, his eyes wild as he lunged at Roh.

    Roh''s instincts kicked in as he dodged the first blow, feeling the wind of the bottle whistle past his ear. He circled around the drunkard, keeping his eyes on his opponent''s movements. The drunkard was unsteady on his feet, but his blows were fueled by a desperate anger.

    Roh waited for the right moment to strike. As the drunkard stumbled forward, Roh sidestepped him and delivered a swift kick to the back of his knees. The drunkard crumpled to the ground with a thud, dropping the broken bottle which smashed on the ground.

    The Brash Brute advanced on Roh, his massive battleaxe raised above his head. As the Brute closed in, Lorne unsheathed her twin sai from her belt. She took a deep breath and focused her mind, entering a state of heightened awareness.

    The Brute swung his battleaxe in a wide arc, aiming to cleave Roh in two. Lorne darted forward, her sai flashing in the air. She aimed for the Brute''s wrist, hoping to disarm him before he could strike.

    Her aim was true. The tip of her sai pierced the Brute''s skin, causing him to drop his weapon with a howl of pain. Lorne pressed her advantage, delivering a quick strike to the Brute''s solar plexus, knocking the wind out of him.

    The Brute stumbled back, clutching his wrist in agony. Lorne seized the opportunity to strike again. She lunged forward, driving the point of her sai into the Brute''s chest with a swift, decisive blow. The Brute let out a gurgling cry and fell to the ground, dead.

    Lorne withdrew her sai, wiping them clean on the Brute''s clothes. She looked over at Roh, who was panting heavily but unharmed. They nodded at each other in silent agreement, knowing that the other henchmen would not be far behind. They steeled themselves for the next attack.

    The Grimy Goon took the opportunity to attack Lorne. Roh saw red as he watched the Grimy Goon try to harm Lorne. He lunged forward without thinking, his own knife flashing in the moonlight.

    The Goon saw him coming and tried to sidestep, but Roh was too quick. He grabbed the Goon by the arm, twisting it painfully and causing him to drop his own knife.

    "You picked the wrong person to mess with," Roh growled, his voice low and dangerous.

    He used his free hand to punch the Goon in the face, stunning him. Then, with a swift motion, he drew his knife across the Goon''s face, leaving a deep, bleeding gash.

    The Goon shrieked in pain and fell to the ground, clutching his face. Roh stood over him, breathing heavily, his own knife still in hand.

    "You should be glad I didn''t kill you," Roh spat. "Now get out of here before I change my mind."

    The Grimy Goon scrambled to his feet, his hand clutching the bleeding wound on his face. He whimpered in pain, but his eyes glinted with fury as he glared at Roh and Lorne.

    "You may have scarred me, but I''ll have my revenge," he hissed, his voice full of malice. "You haven''t seen the last of me."

    He stumbled away, his movements unsteady as he disappeared into the darkness of the forest. The rustling of the leaves and the distant sounds of his footsteps were the only signs of his retreat.

    Roh and Lorne stood there, panting and watching him go as his threat of revenge lingered in the air like a dark cloud.

    An alert popped up on the party log.

    Alert: Grimy Goon will remember that. Due to your choice in actions of scarring him, Grimy Goon now holds a grudge against you and will seek revenge with increased ferocity. Beware, as Grimy Goon''s hatred towards you has now risen to the level of ''Bane''.

    Due to your actions of scarring him, Grimy Goon''s animosity towards you has escalated to the level of a ''[Bane]'', manifesting as a unique ability called the "[Heartbinders Chain]." This ability allows Grimy Goon to conjure icy chains that can ensnare targets. Once a target is caught by these chains, they suffer from "[Frigid Blight]," a condition that significantly weakens them by reducing their mobility and inflicting continuous cold damage. The chains not only immobilize the target but also amplify Grimy Goon''s ability to control and dominate the battlefield. Be cautious, as this new power makes Grimy Goon a more formidable and dangerous adversary in his quest for revenge.

    Roh''s heart pounded as the memory of the Frigid Blight''s harrowing effects flooded his mind. The vivid recollection of the victim he had seen in Tuck¡¯s hut ¨C immobilized, pained, their vitality drained away by the unyielding cold ¨C triggered a mix of empathy and terror within him. His breathing hastened, envisioning the numbing grasp of the blight.

    Yet, amidst the rising tide of fear, Roh''s instinct to survive kicked in. He couldn''t help but let out a frustrated grumble, "Seriously? A bane? Just what I needed. Another overpowered enemy with a grudge. Thanks, game devs."

    Lorne smirked at Roh''s annoyed response, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Oh come on, Roh, don''t be such a sore loser," she teased. "You know we can handle whatever these game devs throw at us."

    She twirled her sai in her hand. "Besides, a little challenge is good for us. It keeps us on our toes," she added with a grin.

 Chapter 9 (Part 3): Ambushed

    ¡°Ugh, fine. Bring it on,¡± said Roh.

    With all the commotion with the Grimy Goon, Roh and Lorne had forgotten about the remaining henchman.

    The Drunkard, with his face twisted in a sneer, stumbled back to his feet and slurred at Roh, "Yer jushh an orphn, ain''t got no fam''ly or home t'' call yer own."

    Roh corrected the henchman, "You''re mistaken, I am not actually an orphan in the real world. I have a family and a home, but my character in this virtual world is an orphan. It adds depth and complexity to the role I play and makes it more interesting and engaging."

    The henchman''s expression faltered as Roh spoke, clearly taken aback by the distinction between the real and virtual world.

    The Drunkard, looking confused, responded by asking, "What''re ya shayin'' mate? Can''t und''rstand ya."

    Roh, you''ve been hit with a roleplaying penalty for stepping out of character.

    Temporary penalty: You will be rewarded less XP for the next 30 minutes.

    Fuck!

    Lorne remarked to Roh, "You''re on quite a roll today, aren''t you?"

    Roh, sporting a mischievous smile, shot back, ¡°I was under the impression you preferred the rebels.¡±

    Caught off guard by Roh''s clever retort, Lorne responded, a smile playing on her lips, "Well, well, well, I didn''t know you had it in you to come back with a quip like that. I kind of like it."

    While they were too busy reading the prompt and discussing it. The Drunkard was looking to escape.

    Roh noticed just in time and was able to grapple him and use the terrain to his advantage. He lunged forward, using his strength to push the henchman off balance and then grappled him around the waist, pulling him to the ground.

    He expertly pinned the Drunkard prone, immobilizing him and rendering him unable to defend himself. The henchman lay at Roh''s mercy, Roh''s knife hovering dangerously close to his throat as Roh interrogated him. The prone position, with the henchman''s body rendered vulnerable, added an element of fear and urgency to the situation, making it clear that Roh was in control.

    With the Drunkard prone, Roh straddled him, pressing the blade of his knife to the henchman''s throat. "Who sent you?" Roh growled, his voice filled with anger and menace.

    The henchman''s eyes widened in fear, he knew he was no match for Roh and Lorne and that he had to comply. "Morrkayn," he spat out, his voice trembling with fear.

    Roh tilted his head in confusion. "Morrkayn?" he asked, the name foreign to him.

    He glanced at Lorne, asking, "Do you know who he''s talking about?"

    Lorne shrugged in response, just as clueless as Roh.

    "Is that some kind of discount store Morpheus? Like a knockoff who sells second-rate prophecies from the back of his van?" Roh chuckled.

    The henchman stared at him, unsure whether to be more afraid of the knife or Roh''s sudden shift to levity. "Morrkayn, the Abhorrent Supreme Necromancer! Father of Necromancy!" he clarified, his voice now steady and urgent, as if his drunken slur had been wiped away by sheer terror.

    "Oh, that Morrkayn!" Roh exclaimed, feigning realization. "Why didn''t you say so in the first place? I mean, I was just about to offer you a coupon for half off on ''Morrkayn''s Mystical Mortuary Services!''"

    As the henchman continued to look bewildered, Roh sighed and winked at Lorne. "Alright, buddy, we''ll go pay this ''Morrkayn'' a visit. But you have to admit," he said, poking the henchman in the chest with the tip of his knife, "that ''Morrkayn''s Mystical Mortuary Services'' has a nice ring to it. Maybe suggest it to him as a side gig?"

    Roh looked at Lorne and said, ¡°Of the three henchmen, trust me to pick the drunk for information. He is clearly off his rocket.¡±

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    Lorne couldn''t help but chuckle at Roh''s remark, but she maintained a concerned expression. "Well, regardless of his inebriated state, it''s worth looking into. Remember what they say: even a broken clock is right twice a day."

    The henchman, still trembling with fear, looked incredulously at Roh''s amused expression. "How are you not scared?" he stammered. "Morrkayn is to be feared by all! He has slaughtered your kind, your entire family¡­ he¡¯s your nemesis!"

    Roh blinked.. "Really? My nemesis? I mean, with all you villains running around, it''s so hard to keep track. Are you sure you''re not confusing me with some other dashing, knife wielding barbarian?"

    At this point, Lorne leaned in and whispered to Roh, "Maybe you should check your backstory in your character sheet. Might be in there or at least something to jog your memory."

    Roh raised an eyebrow but did as Lorne suggested. After a moment of scanning the sheet, his eyes widened, and his composure faded. "Well, I''ll be damned," he muttered under his breath. "You''re right, henchman. Morrkayn is my nemesis, and he DID slaughter my family. Now I¡¯m pissed!"

    Shaking off his previous levity, Roh''s expression grew serious, and his voice became more menacing. "I appreciate the reminder. Now, let''s go pay Morrkayn a visit and introduce him to the sharp end of my blade."

    Roh stood up, pulling the henchman to his feet. "You can tell Morrkayn that I''m coming for him," Roh said, his voice cold and filled with determination.

    The henchman nodded, fear evident in his eyes. Roh released him and he quickly ran away, not daring to look back. Roh and Lorne shared a look, both of them were out of breath but victorious.

    A prompt displayed on the party log:

    Congratulations, Roh! The Drunkard will remember your deed. You have earned the following boon:

    Boon Name: Liquid Courage

    Description: Empowered by the boldness that comes from imbibing their preferred libation, the player''s character is able to tap into a surge of confidence and bravado, allowing them to harness the full potential of an ability.

    Effect: When Liquid Courage is activated, the player''s character can use one of their abilities or skills twice before triggering a cooldown.

    Restrictions: This boon can only be used once per encounter,

    Additionally, the Drunkard has pledged his loyalty to you and will aid you in battle.

    Roh subtly nodded. Finally, I¡¯ve done something right in this battle.

    Level Up!

    Level 5

    Title: Human Hunter

    Hunting humans now are we?

    Max HP +40

    Max Stamina +20

    Two stat points gained.

    Unlocked Subclass: Druidic Barbarian

    Unlocked Ability: [Nature''s Whisper]

    This ability channels the power of the surrounding natural world and enables the caster to harness, manipulate and command the natural elements, flora and fauna.

    Roh bounced on the balls of his feet, his whole body seeming to vibrate with excitement. Yes, I¡¯ve unlocked my subclass! Can¡¯t wait to try out that ability. Now where to place my points? The points I placed in agility really helped me in this battle, but I guess I will put both in Strength as I don¡¯t want that lagging behind. I am a barbarian afterall.

    "Good job, you''re already improving. Just don''t forget to loot that battleaxe before we leave," Lorne reminded Roh.

    "But it''s your kill, so it''s your loot," Roh pointed out.

    "I know, but I can''t carry that thing. And even if I could, I''m not proficient enough to use it," Lorne explained.

    Roh suggested, "You could always sell it."

    Lorne grew impatient and commanded, "Roh, just pick it up already."

    "Alright, alright. Thanks, by the way," Roh said as he picked up the battleaxe.

    Weapon: Brute¡¯s Two-handed Battle Axe  - Common

    The Brute''s Battleaxe is a massive, two-handed axe that appears to be too heavy for a mere mortal to wield. It is designed for brute force and raw power.

    Item Level 5

    Physical Damage: 30 ¨C 36

    Critical Strike Chance: +7.0%

    Attacks per second: 0.8

    Range: 13 ft

    Weight: +30

    Durability: 6/10

    Roh''s eyes lit up as he gripped the handle of the battleaxe, feeling its weight and balance in his hands. With a broad grin on his face, he swung the weapon in an arc, slashing the air with a satisfying whoosh. "Feels good to wield an axe again!" he exclaimed, the joy in his voice evident as he continued to test out his new weapon.

    The group of unlikely allies took a moment to catch their breath. Taro, peeked out from behind Noona, grateful for her protective presence during the skirmish. Roh wiped the sweat from his brow, while Lorne surveyed the surrounding forest.

    "We need to keep moving," Lorne said, looking up at the sky. Dark clouds were beginning to gather, casting a shadow over the treetops. "The nearest town, Cazador, is still quite far, and we don''t want to be caught out here when the storm hits."

    Roh nodded, sheathing his weapons. "You''re right. Let''s go."

 Chapter 10 (Part 1): Hunter or Hunted

    With Noona leading the way, the group continued through the dense forest. Taro clambered onto Roh''s shoulder, feeling a bit more secure now that the immediate danger had passed. The air grew colder and the wind began to pick up, rustling the leaves and making the branches creak ominously overhead.

    As they trudged along, Roh''s thoughts turned to his primary mission of tracking down the elusive Zulgarn. A sudden realization struck him ¨C Taro, with his Pathfinder ability, could be the key to their success. "There''s no time like the present to make progress on our main quest," Roh mused. "We should use Taro''s talents to track a Zulgarn while we''re en route to Cazador."

    With a decisive nod, Roh turned to the young wyvern perched on his shoulder. "Taro, your keen senses and exceptional guidance are needed," he said, determination shining in his eyes. "Help us find a Zulgarn!"

    Taro chirped in acknowledgment, his saffron eyes gleaming with determination. Unfurling his iridescent wings, the hatchling took to the sky, his vibrant aura illuminating the surrounding area.

    Pathfinder (Tier 1)

    Type: Active

    Cooldown: 1 hour

    Description:

    Your Wyvern Hatchling, Taro, has developed the unique ability to act as a guide through treacherous and unfamiliar terrain. By utilizing its keen senses and aerial agility, Taro can safely navigate you and your party through dangerous environments and track elusive targets.

    When activated, Taro will emit a soft, ethereal glow and create a luminous trail for you and your allies to follow. This trail will adapt to the ever-changing landscape and provide you with the safest and most efficient path to your destination.

    Effects:

    Grants your party a temporary +10% bonus to Movement Speed while following Taro''s trail.

    Reduces the chance of being ambushed or encountering traps by 15%.

    Improves your party''s tracking abilities, allowing you to locate elusive targets with a 25% increased success rate.

    Please note: The effectiveness of the Pathfinder ability may be influenced by the Wyvern Hatchling''s level, affinity, and any additional skills or equipment it possesses.

    As they followed Taro¡¯s ethereal trail, the first raindrops began to fall, small and cold. It wasn''t long before they grew heavier, the sky opening up to unleash a torrential downpour. Lightning flashed in the distance, and thunder rumbled through the forest, shaking the ground beneath them.

    The sudden shift in weather brought an urgent need to protect Taro from the harsh elements.

    As rain cascaded around them, Roh called out to Taro, who was flying up ahead of them, "Taro, come back here!" He beckoned the hatchling to return to the safety of his arms. Upon hearing Roh''s concerned voice, Taro quickly changed course and flew back towards him. As the small hatchling reached Roh''s outstretched arms, he gently scooped Taro up and cradled the creature protectively against his chest.

    Determined to shield the vulnerable hatchling from the tempest''s wrath, he bent forward while navigating the treacherous terrain, using his body as a bulwark to protect Taro from the unrelenting wind and water. Menacing clouds shrouded the landscape in darkness, while the gale''s fierce howls tugged at Roh''s hair.. Lorne wrapped her arms around her body, her clothing quickly becoming soaked. The wind whipped the rain sideways, and Noona''s fur was plastered to her body, but she pressed onward, her large form providing some shelter for the others as they followed in her wake.

    "We need to find some shelter," Lorne shouted over the roar of the wind, her voice barely audible. "We won''t make it to the town in this storm!"

    Roh surveyed the area, his eyes scanning for any possible refuge from the onslaught. "There!" he yelled, pointing to a large, overgrown rock formation a short distance away. "It looks like there might be a cave there. We''ll have to take our chances!"

    The group made their way to the rocks, buffeted by the wind and rain. As they drew nearer, they could see the dark entrance to the cave, like a gaping maw waiting to swallow them whole. They hesitated for a moment, wary of what might be lurking inside, but the raging storm left them little choice.

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    Roh, Lorne, Taro, and Noona plunged into the darkness, seeking shelter from the tempest outside. The rain continued to pour, thunder crashing all around them, but they were determined to survive the night and continue their journey to the nearest town. The cave, though dark and foreboding, offered a temporary sanctuary in the storm.

    Together, they huddled in the darkness, waiting for the storm to pass.

    The wind grew stronger, howling like a pack of wolves as it whipped around them.

    As the storm raged outside the cave, the cold seeped into their bones, chilling the group to the core. Taro shivered violently, his small body struggling to retain warmth in the damp and cold environment. Roh glanced around the cave, searching for a way to protect the wyvern hatchling from the harsh elements.

    Then, Roh remembered an item he had acquired on one of his previous adventures ¨C a Heat-Infused Satchel. This legendary satchel was crafted by the most skilled artisans, using the finest materials. Its enchanted fabric not only provided ample storage space but also emanated a gentle warmth, perfect for protecting its contents from the cold.

    Roh rummaged through his belongings, relief washing over him as he found the satchel tucked away at the bottom of his pack. He carefully opened the satchel, feeling the comforting warmth radiating from within. "Taro," he called softly, "I''ve got something that will help keep you warm."

    Taro, still shivering, looked up at Roh with curiosity as he gently picked up the wyvern hatchling and placed him inside the satchel, making sure he was comfortable and secure. Taro immediately felt the warmth enveloping him and sighed with contentment, his small body finally beginning to relax.

    Roh slung the satchel across his chest, keeping Taro close to his body. The warmth from the satchel not only provided comfort for Taro but also helped to keep Roh warm as well. Lorne, huddling against Noona for warmth, couldn''t help but smile at the sight, the small reprieve offering them a brief moment of solace.

    However, their moment of respite was short-lived.

    Contrary to their expectations, the storm did not subside. Instead, it grew even more intense, the wind howling like a wild beast and the rain falling in merciless torrents. The group huddled together, struggling to maintain their composure in the face of such unrelenting fury.

    "This can''t be a natural storm," Roh shouted above the din, his eyes narrowing with concern. "There must be something else causing this destruction!"

    Lorne nodded in agreement, her grip tightening around her Sai. "I''ve never seen anything like this before. We need to find out what''s going on!"

    The group ventured cautiously to the cave entrance, bracing themselves against the wind and rain. Through the torrents, they caught sight of a scene that left them speechless. Two enormous behemoths were locked in a fierce battle, their massive bodies crashing against each other with earth-shattering force. Each time their limbs collided, the ground shook, and the storm seemed to intensify in response to their anger.

    From the heart of this cataclysmic battle, a monstrous fusion of fury and armor erupted from the storm''s heart. Its lupine head, bristling with a mane of obsidian spears, glared with molten eyes, burning with timeless intelligence. A gaping maw promised oblivion. The colossal form, a mosaic of emerald and umber scales, shimmered, vanishing into dappled light. Thick, oaken limbs ended in earth-rending claws.  But the true terror was the spine - a forest of razor-sharp spikes.  The behemoth''s tail, a deadly pendulum, swung with deceptive grace, leaving a wake of shattered trees and gouged earth. Its lumbering movements held an eerie beauty, a primal dance to an unseen drumbeat. The storm roared in response, the creature a living embodiment of chaos, an avatar born from the world''s violent dawn.

    The other threat stood against the shadows, a serpentine nightmare twisted with draconic power. Coiled muscle rippled beneath iridescent scales as enormous, leathery wings churned the storm. Glowing embers for eyes burned through the dark. A fanged maw, dripping with venom that sizzled on the earth, snapped with primal fury.

    As the titans clashed, the storm seemed to draw strength from their fury, raging ever more violently around them. Lightning cracked and split the sky, illuminating the battlefield in brief, brilliant flashes. Each blow, each snarl, and each roar echoed through the forest, drowning out all other sounds and filling the hearts of the onlookers with a primal dread.

    Roh''s eyes widened as he realized the truth of the situation. "These creatures ¨C they¡¯re causing the storm!"

    Their sanctuary was rapidly morphing into a snare, the air growing heavy and choking as the monstrous behemoths closed in. The ceaseless onslaught of the storm was escalating, painting a stark picture of their predicament - the once safe distance between them and the furious titans was evaporating like dew before the morning sun.

    The chilling realization gripped them with an icy dread.

    Lorne''s call for action shattered the suspenseful quiet like a rogue wave against a rocky shore. "We have to act, now!" Her voice, rich with desperate grit, lashed out against the howling gale, its echo bouncing off the jagged walls of the cave.

    Roh looked down at the satchel containing Taro, his resolve hardening. "You''re right. We gotta step up, either take these monsters down or at least chill ''em out. Our lives are hanging in the balance here!"

    Roh knew what he had to do. He reached for the whistle and blew into it, the shrill note cutting through the air like a knife.

    As the sound of the whistle resonated throughout the storm, a soft, golden light enveloped Noona. In a matter of moments, the light grew brighter and more intense, and Noona''s form began to dissolve into a shower of shimmering particles that ascended skyward, disappearing into the heart of the storm.

    With Noona now safely out of harm''s way, Roh turned to Lorne, his eyes filled with determination. "It''s time for us to face these behemoths and put an end to the destruction they''re causing," he said, his voice steady and resolute.

    Lorne nodded, gripping her Sai tightly as they prepared to step forward into the maelstrom.

 Chapter 10 (Part 2): Hunter or Hunted

    The two behemoths were locked in a fierce fight, their massive bodies tearing up the forest as they clashed. The ground shook with each impact of their strikes, and the sound of their roars filled the air. Trees were knocked over, and branches were torn from their trunks. Sparks flew as their armored plates clashed against each other.

    Roh and Lorne stood frozen in shock and awe, watching as the behemoths continued to fight. They had never seen anything like it before, and the sheer scale of the destruction was staggering. They realized that they were in the midst of a battle between two powerful creatures and they had to act quickly to survive.

    Roh stood, contemplating his next move. He knew he could use his [Identify Species] ability to learn more about the beasts before him. However, he was torn over which one to choose, as the ability would then be on a cooldown.

    "I need to assess both of these creatures," Roh said to Lorne, his brow furrowed in deep thought.

    Just then, he recalled the extraordinary gift he had received from the inebriated henchman not too long ago. His eyes lit up with excitement, knowing that he might now have a chance to examine both beasts with his ability.

    "Ah, that''s it! The boon from the Drunk henchman!" Roh exclaimed, his eyes alight with hope as he turned to Lorne.

    Emboldened, Roh activated the [Liquid Courage] boon, applying it to his [Identify Species] ability. The UI displayed a x2 multiplier, signifying that he could now use the ability twice before triggering a cooldown.

    As the storm raged beyond the cave''s entrance, Roh and Lorne steeled themselves for the daunting task ahead. Leaving their shelter, they ventured into the tempest, determined to get closer to the enigmatic creatures. With the [Liquid Courage] boon in effect and the x2 multiplier on Roh''s ability, they felt as prepared as they could be.

    The moment they stepped out, rain pelted their faces like a barrage of icy needles. Thunder bellowed overhead, while lightning cast ghostly shadows across the ravaged landscape. The wind, like a voracious predator, sought to rip everything in its path asunder.

    Carefully navigating the chaos, Roh and Lorne sought refuge behind an uprooted tree, its twisted roots reaching skyward as if pleading for salvation. From this hideaway, they found themselves close enough to the creatures for Roh to employ his enhanced ability.

    Rain soaked their garments, chilling them to the bone, but Roh remained resolute. As he focused on the first creature, he fought to maintain his concentration amidst the storm''s relentless assault. Drawing a deep, steadying breath, he activated [Identify Species], determined to unveil the mysteries shrouding these peculiar beings.

    Zulgarn - Epic - Level 10 (Difficulty Heroic)

    The Zulgarn is a highly intelligent and formidable alpha beast of the wilds, known for its incredible strength, nimble nature and ferocious instincts. It is adapted to hunt in low light conditions.

    Its snout is broad and strong, with powerful jaws that can crush through the toughest armor. Its eyes are piercing and intense, with a golden hue that seems to glow with an inner fire. Its ears are tall and perked, always alert for the slightest sound that might indicate danger.

    The teeth of this creature are razor-sharp, perfect for tearing through the flesh of its enemies. Its body is massive and well-muscled, with legs that are both powerful and nimble, allowing it to sprint across the battlefield at incredible speeds. Its fur is thick and shaggy, providing excellent insulation against the cold, while its back and tail are covered in bony plates that protect it from attacks.

    The back of this creature is broad and strong, with powerful muscles that allow it to carry heavy loads and deliver devastating blows with its spiked tail. The tail itself is long and flexible, perfect for delivering sweeping blows and knocking down enemies. Whether it is charging into battle or simply moving with grace and power, the dire Zulgarn hybrid is a truly magnificent sight to behold.

    Species: Beast

    Element Affinity: Terra Luna

    Strain: Gen 1 (Critically Endangered)

    Role: Alpha of a pack - usually wanders alone.

    Strengths: High Intelligence, Keen Senses, High Agility & Incredible Strength

    Resistances: Psionic, Blizzard & Umbra

    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

    Roh could hardly contain his excitement at the discovery.

    "Lorne, it''s a Zulgarn!" Roh exclaimed, his voice filled with awe and exhilaration. "I can''t believe we''ve found one. This is incredible!"

    Lorne''s eyes widened, sharing in Roh''s excitement. Just as they exchanged looks of amazement, another prompt materialized.

    DISCOVERED NEW LOCATION: STORMWHISPER GROVE

    Completed! Main Quest - Discovering the Whereabouts of the Zulgarn

    As a skilled adventurer, you have been tasked with tracking down this elusive creature

    Objective: Locate the Zulgarn

    Location: Undiscovered

    Recommended Level: 3

    Conditions: None

    Failure Conditions: None

    Rewards:

    1000 XP

    200 Gold

    +100 Pathfinder Research Points

    New Main Quest - The Hunt for the Elusive Zulgarn

    As a skilled adventurer, you have been tasked with hunting down this legendary creature.

    Objective: Hunt the Zulgarn

    Location: Stormwhisper Grove

    Recommended Level: 6

    Conditions: Capture the Zulgarn alive.

    Failure Conditions: None

    Rewards:

    1000 XP

    200 Gold

    +50 Behemoth Research Points

    The game notification was followed by another.

    Level Up!

    Level 6

    Title: Zulgarn Tracker & Human Hunter

    Great work at tracking the Zulgarn, but don¡¯t think I¡¯ve forgotten what you did.

    Max HP +40

    Max Stamina +20

    Two stat points gained.

    With shoulders drawn back and chest subtly expanded, Roh exuded an air of confidence as he contemplated his recent accomplishments. Making some good progress! I need to take a look at my stats to remind myself, but I need to be quick.

    Strength [11]

    Endurance [4]

    Agility [4]

    Intellect [6]

    Charisma [4]

    Roh furrowed his brow in contemplation. Hmmm¡­ I really need to start increasing my Endurance as that is far too low. I will add both points to it.

    Satisfied with the result, he moved on to identifying the second creature with his [Identify Species] ability.

    Nethrax - Epic - Level 10 (Difficulty Heroic)

    The Nethrax is a nightmarish and formidable creature of the shadows, known for its serpentine grace, draconic power, and venomous bite. It is adapted to hunt in low light conditions and thrives in darkness.

    Its head is massive and fearsome, with a fanged maw that can deliver a venomous bite, and powerful jaws that can snap through armor and bone with ease. Its eyes are haunting and mesmerizing, glowing a deep red that pierces the darkness, always alert for potential prey. Its ears are hidden beneath its scales, sensitive to the slightest sounds that might indicate danger or opportunity.

    The scales of this creature are sleek and tough, perfect for protecting it from attacks and allowing it to slither silently through the shadows. Its body is long and muscular, with a sinuous grace that belies its enormous size and its wings are capable of generating gale-force winds, enabling it to take flight or create chaos on the ground.

    The tail of the Nethrax is long, powerful, and flexible, perfect for delivering crushing blows, constricting its prey, or maintaining balance during swift maneuvers. Its back and wings are adorned with sharp, bony spines that provide additional protection from attacks and can be used as formidable weapons.

    Whether it is stalking its prey from the shadows or soaring through the air with its massive wings, the Nethrax is a truly terrifying and chilling creature that embodies the most fearsome aspects of both serpents and dragons.

    Species: Draconic Serpentes

    Element Affinity: Aer Umbra

    Strain: Gen 3 (Vulnerable)

    Role: Solitary

    Strengths: Keen Senses, High Agility & Immense Strength

    Resistances: Venom, Gale & Umbra

    Roh turned to Lorne and said, "Wow, externally these creatures are very different, as are their abilities, but stats-wise, they are quite similar."

    "So what''s the plan of action now that we''ve assessed both? Looking at their levels and stats, there''s no way we could take them both down with just the two of us."