《MMORPG: Rebirth of the Shadow King》


 Chapter 1 The fall

    Mark''s hands clenched into fists as he scrolled through the logs, his mind screaming that this had to be some kind of mistake. Some cruel joke. Some hack.


    But the reality stared back at him in brutal, undeniable clarity. Dark Solution belonged to Dominant now.


    His guild. His home. Gone.


    And the one responsible? Sophia.


    The woman he had trusted above all. His second-in-command. His partner. The one he had foolishly imagined a future with¡ªboth in the game and beyond.


    And she had sold it all. Sold him out.


    His breath came slow and ragged as he scrolled down the transfer logs, where her message sat, waiting like a final dagger to the chest:


    > Mark, I did what was necessary. You''ll understand one day.


    Public Humiliation


    A notification popped up in his private messages. A live guild meeting was being streamed in Dominant''s grand hall. His fingers hovered over the link. He shouldn''t watch. It would only make the pain worse.


    But he clicked it anyway.


    The screen loaded, revealing a packed hall, banners of Dominant draped over polished marble walls. At the center of it all, lounging on an ornate throne, was Sophia.


    She looked comfortable there. Too comfortable.


    Around her, familiar faces¡ªhis former officers, his most trusted members¡ªlaughed and drank, toasting their new allegiance.


    One of them¡ªa warrior named Vance, who had once sworn loyalty to Mark¡ªgrinned at Sophia. "Man, I almost feel bad for him. Did you see his face in the logs?"


    Sophia smirked, swirling a goblet of digital wine. "Oh, I saw it. I almost expected him to cry. Poor thing."


    Laughter erupted through the hall.


    Mark''s grip on his mouse tightened until his knuckles turned white.


    Another officer, Clara, grinned. "Guess he really thought all that ''loyalty'' and ''family'' crap meant something, huh?"


    Sophia leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. "Mark was a relic, clinging to a dream that was never sustainable. Dark Solution was doomed the moment he refused to evolve. All I did was cut the dead weight before we all got dragged down with him."


    Dead weight.


    The words hit harder than any sword ever had.


    The Final Betrayal


    A document flashed on the screen.


    Sophia held up a signed contract with a smug smile. The Dominant Guild Contract.


    "Oh, and if he thinks he can ''rebuild'' or ''fight back''... well, let''s just put that nonsense to rest right now." She flicked the document open, zooming in on the fine print. "Mark signed this when Dark Solution was first formed¡ªstandard leadership terms. In the event of a hostile transfer, the original guild leader must delete their account. Compensation will be provided."


    The camera zoomed in further.


    1,000,000 credits.


    A drop in the ocean compared to the hundreds of millions a first-rate guild like Dominant made daily.


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    Mark felt his stomach twist.


    She wasn''t just taking his guild. She was erasing him.


    Sophia leaned back, stretching like a cat that had just devoured a helpless mouse. "If he follows the contract, he gets his little compensation and can go start a farm in some PvE game. If he doesn''t?" She smiled. "Well¡­ Dominant doesn''t take kindly to loose ends."


    More laughter. More toasts. More mockery.


    Mark closed the stream.


    His hands shook, his entire body trembling with an emotion far beyond rage.


    This wasn''t just about betrayal anymore.


    They thought they had ended him.


    They thought he would just disappear.


    They were wrong.


    Mark stared blankly at the screen, his vision blurring. His mind screamed, his body ached, but his soul¡ªhis very identity¡ªfelt like it had been ripped apart.


    He had fought in wars, crushed enemies, and built a legacy that had stood for fifteen years. Yet, with a few lines of legalese and a signature, Sophia had erased him from existence.


    A notification popped up on his HUD.


    > Account Deletion Pending.


    He could fight it. Try to find a loophole. But against Dominant? Against Sophia? The legal team of a first-rate guild was stronger than any sword or spell.


    The walls of his apartment felt like they were closing in. The silence was suffocating.


    With shaking hands, he pulled off his VR headset and tossed it onto the desk. The screen reflected his hollow stare back at him. Who was he now, without Dark Solution?


    A bottle of whiskey sat on the counter. He wasn''t much of a drinker, but tonight, it didn''t matter.


    He grabbed the bottle, twisted the cap off, and took a deep pull. The burn in his throat was nothing compared to the fire raging inside him.


    Another swig. Then another.


    By the time the room started spinning, the bottle was half-empty.


    He slumped back into the chair, his limbs heavy. The world around him faded into a blur of bitterness and alcohol.


    That was when the knock came.


    Three slow taps.


    Mark frowned. Who the hell would be at his door this late? Probably some delivery mistake. He ignored it.


    Then the door unlocked.


    His blurry mind barely processed it before the door creaked open, revealing Sophia.


    But she wasn''t alone.


    Behind her stood two men¡ªmassive, broad-shouldered, dressed in black. Not gamers. Not friends. Hired muscle.


    Mark blinked, his alcohol-fogged brain struggling to process the sight. "What¡­ the hell¡­ are you doing here?"


    Sophia stepped inside, her heels clicking against the floor. She wore the same smirk from the guild meeting, but now, there was something else in her eyes. Disdain. Cold, detached cruelty.


    She walked over, looking around his apartment like it was a trash heap. "You really let yourself go, huh?"


    Mark forced himself upright, his instincts screaming that something was very, very wrong. "Get out."


    Sophia tilted her head. "Or what?"


    The two men stepped closer.


    A pit formed in Mark''s stomach. This wasn''t some social visit. This was a hit.


    His foggy brain tried to make sense of it. "What the hell is this?"


    Sophia sighed, pulling a small holo-tablet from her bag. With a tap, she brought up the same contract she had shown in Dominant''s guild meeting.


    She turned the screen toward him. "This contract says you need to delete your account." Her gaze darkened. "But I don''t trust you to stay gone."


    Mark''s blood ran cold. "This is just a game, Sophia."


    Her smirk widened. "No, Mark. This was your life. And now it''s over."


    She turned to the two goons. "Make it look like an accident."


    The first punch shattered his ribs.


    Pain exploded through Mark''s body as he crashed to the floor, the whiskey bottle smashing beside him. He gasped for breath, but another blow struck his stomach, forcing the air from his lungs.


    They weren''t playing.


    Mark fought back, swinging wildly, but the alcohol dulled his reflexes. A fist cracked against his jaw, sending his vision spinning.


    The beating was brutal. Precise. Efficient.


    Each blow stripped away more of him¡ªjust like Sophia had stripped away his legacy.


    As he lay on the floor, coughing up blood, he looked up at her.


    Sophia crouched down, her expression unreadable. "You were always too sentimental. That''s why you lost."


    Mark tried to speak, but blood filled his mouth.


    She leaned in, whispering the last words he would ever hear.


    "Game over."


    A final, crushing blow to his skull sent him into darkness.


    The World Moves On


    By the next morning, Mark''s body was found in his apartment¡ªofficially ruled an accident. Alcohol poisoning. A tragic end for a once-great guild leader.


    In Mortal Online, Dark Solution was already a forgotten memory. Sophia''s name rose in power. Dominant continued its reign.


    And Mark?


    He was just another deleted account.


    Darkness.


    Mark''s body lay broken, his mind slipping into the abyss. His senses dulled, his breath shallow. Pain faded into nothingness. This was death.


    Yet beyond the veil of mortality, something stirred.


    A place beyond time. A higher plane.


    Here, existence was not bound by flesh, nor by the artificial constructs of a game. This was raw will, woven into the threads of fate. And within this boundless realm, they watched.


    A council of gods.


    Entities beyond comprehension, shrouded in cosmic energy, their voices reverberating across dimensions.


    One, clad in celestial armor, spoke first. "Another soul discarded. His fate is sealed."


    A second, wreathed in ever-shifting shadows, chuckled. "Sealed? No. This one is... different."


    A third, with eyes like collapsing stars, peered into Mark''s essence. "Stripped of power. Erased by betrayal. Yet even in death, his will burns."


    A fourth, the eldest, leaned forward. "He has been wronged. The cycle of life and death has cheated him. Perhaps it is time we interfere."


    The celestial-armored god frowned. "Intervention is forbidden."


    The shadowed god grinned. "So is amusement, and yet, here we are, watching."


    Their gazes fell upon the mortal soul adrift before them.


    Mark.


    A man cast aside. A leader betrayed. A warrior who lost everything.


    And yet, he did not break.


    The eldest god extended a hand. "Mark of Dark Solution... what do you desire?"


    For the first time since his death, Mark moved.


    His soul stirred, rising. The last remnants of his shattered consciousness coalesced into a single, burning thought.


    Revenge.


    The shadowed god laughed, voice thick with anticipation. "Good. Then let us give you the power to take it."


    Lightning ripped across the void. Reality trembled. The gods reached out.


    Mark''s soul ignited. His form twisted, reforged in the crucible of divine will.


    But just before the power took hold, a thought formed in his mind¡ªa flicker of doubt.


    "Why?" His voice, raw and unfamiliar, echoed through the void. "Why are you helping me?"


    For a moment, silence. Then¡ªlaughter. Deep. Rumbling. Echoing through the cosmos.


    The eldest god smirked. "I told you. He is interesting."


    The celestial-armored god scoffed. "Too weak to understand now."


    The shadowed god leaned in, grinning. "We will tell you when you satisfy us... in the game."


    A chorus of laughter filled the void. The gods watched with anticipation.


    Power surged.


    Mark screamed as divine energy carved through him, shaping him into something new. Something unstoppable.


    He would return.


    Not as a man.


    Not as a forgotten guild leader.


    Not even as a player.


    But as a god of vengeance.


    And Mortal Online would tremble.

 Chapter 2 the second beginning

    Mark gasped.Not a breath of the dead, but of the living.His lungs burned as he lurched forward, fingers clutching at soft fabric¡ªsheets. He was in a bed. Not the void. Not the shattered battlefield where he had died.A room.Sunlight streamed through a half-open window, a gentle breeze rustling the curtains. The scent of fresh air filled his nose, mixed with something familiar¡ªwood, ink, and old electronics.His mind spun.The gods. The laughter. The power surging through him. And then¡ªnothing.Slowly, he looked down at his hands. They were smaller. Younger. His skin was unscarred, unmarked by the battles he had fought.Heart pounding, he stumbled out of bed and turned to the mirror.A face stared back.His face.But not the hardened warrior he had become. Not the man betrayed and left to die.This was the face of his past self.Fifteen years younger.His breath hitched. His hands trembled. It wasn''t a dream.He had gone back.The gods hadn''t just given him power. They had thrown him into the past.The realization sent a shiver down his spine.He still remembered everything. Every betrayal. Every battle. Every secret that had been lost with time.A slow, dark smile spread across his lips.This time, he would not be the fool who trusted the wrong people. This time, he would seize power before it was stolen from him.And this time, when the gods watched¡ªHe would give them a show worthy of legends.---Mark sat on the edge of the bed, forcing his breathing to steady. He reached out, pressing a hand against the wooden nightstand. Solid. Real. His senses were sharper than he remembered from his youth, perhaps a lingering effect of the divine intervention. He flexed his fingers, feeling the strength in them. He wasn''t as strong as he had been at his peak, but he had muscle memory. That, combined with knowledge of future events, gave him an advantage no one else had.Closing his eyes, he forced himself to recall the past. The faces of his so-called allies who had betrayed him. The strategies that had failed. The battles lost. And the moments where a single choice could have changed everything.Regret twisted in his gut, but he let it fuel him. He had been given a gift. A second chance.But how far back had he gone?He scanned the room, noting the familiar layout. This was his old apartment from his university days. The posters on the wall, the books stacked on his desk, the outdated phone lying next to his pillow. He grabbed it, pressing the power button. The screen lit up, displaying the date.Fifteen years ago.He let out a slow exhale. Fifteen years was a long time. Enough time to change everything.He had to move fast.Mark stood and began taking stock of his situation. His old notebooks contained scraps of ideas, strategies he had toyed with but never fully implemented. Now, with future knowledge, they would be weapons. He flipped through them, his mind racing.First, he needed money. Resources were essential. He knew which stocks would soar, which businesses would rise and fall. A few well-placed investments could make him a fortune in months. But that was just the start.Power was the real goal.He recalled the people who had shaped the world¡ªthe ones who had manipulated him into fighting their battles, only to discard him when he was no longer useful. This time, he would turn the tables.His enemies didn''t know he was coming.Mark smirked, stretching his arms. He had work to do.---The first step was testing his limits. He stood in the center of the room, focusing inward. He clenched his fists, willing something¡ªanything¡ªto happen. But there was nothing. No heat, no energy, no divine power lingering in his veins.He frowned. The gods had sent him back, but they hadn''t granted him real power.He was just a man.A man armed with knowledge.And sometimes, knowledge was the greatest weapon of all.A knock at the door startled him. His body reacted on instinct, dropping into a defensive stance before he realized how ridiculous it was."Mark! Are you up?"The voice was achingly familiar. He hesitated before responding."Yeah," he said, forcing his voice to remain steady.The door opened, and his best friend from the past, Alex, stepped in. Seeing him alive again sent a wave of emotion crashing over Mark. Alex had been one of the few true friends he had in his old life¡ªbefore fate tore them apart."Damn, you look like you saw a ghost," Alex said, raising an eyebrow. "You okay?"Mark forced a grin. "Just had a weird dream."Alex snorted. "Well, get your ass ready. We have class in an hour."Class.Mark had almost forgotten what it was like to be a student. He had been so consumed with war and survival in his last life that the idea of sitting through lectures felt foreign. But this was an opportunity. His university years had been a critical turning point. This time, he wouldn''t waste them.He nodded. "Give me ten minutes."As Alex left, Mark turned back to the mirror. His younger self stared back at him.A new life. A new chance.And a promise to himself.This time, he would not just survive.He would rule.


    Game will launch in 10 days. Mortal Online. A world of endless possibilities, where warriors carve their names into history, alliances are forged and broken, and power is seized by those strong enough to claim it. Mark had played it before, seen its rise and fall. This time, he would be more than a player¡ªhe would be a legend.


    Mark took a deep breath as he grabbed his backpack, feeling the weight of the past pressing against his present. College. The word felt almost foreign after everything he had been through. In his last life, these halls had been nothing more than a brief stop before the real world swallowed him whole. But now, they were his starting point.


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    As he stepped out of his apartment, the familiar scent of morning dew mixed with the distant aroma of coffee from the campus cafe. Students passed by in groups, chatting, laughing, living in the moment. It was surreal. Just yesterday¡ªor rather, fifteen years from now¡ªhe had been locked in brutal battles, betrayed by those he trusted, clawing for survival. Now, he was just another college student walking to class.


    Alex walked beside him, rambling about some project he had put off until the last minute. Mark barely listened, nodding at the right moments, still processing his reality. He kept glancing at the students around him, half-expecting to see someone from his past who had once shaped his future. Were they here now? Were they different? Did they still have time before fate twisted their paths?


    They arrived at the main lecture hall, a towering building of glass and brick. Mark stared up at it, his pulse steady. He remembered this place vividly. The lectures, the professors, the late-night cramming sessions. He had squandered so much time here, unaware of the storm that would come years later. This time, he wouldn''t waste a second.


    The classroom was already half full when they entered. Mark''s eyes swept across the room, analyzing, assessing. He recognized some faces¡ªpeople who had once been insignificant in his life but now held potential value. That quiet girl in the corner? She would go on to develop cutting-edge AI technology. That guy at the front? He would launch a billion-dollar startup in a few years. Last time, he had ignored them. This time, he would build connections.


    Alex flopped into a chair near the middle row, and Mark followed, taking a seat beside him. The professor, a man with graying hair and a perpetually tired expression, strode in moments later and began setting up his slides.


    "First class of the semester," Alex muttered, pulling out his notebook. "Let''s see how long before I fall asleep."


    Mark smirked but said nothing. The lecture began, and while most students drifted in and out of attention, he absorbed every word. Knowledge wasn''t just power; it was a weapon. If he played this right, he could carve out a future where he wasn''t just a survivor, but a king.


    About halfway through the lecture, the professor''s gaze snapped to Alex, who had been doodling absentmindedly instead of taking notes.


    "Mr. Alex, since you seem so engaged, perhaps you''d like to summarize the last five minutes?" the professor asked, his tone sharp.


    Alex''s eyes widened in panic as he glanced at Mark for help, but Mark simply watched, bemused.


    "Uh¡­ something about¡­ systems?" Alex guessed, rubbing the back of his neck.


    The professor sighed. "Perhaps if you paid attention instead of drawing, you''d know. See me after class."


    The room chuckled, and Alex groaned, slumping in his seat. Mark shook his head. Some things never changed.


    As the lecture wrapped up, Mark leaned back in his seat, thoughtful. The past was a roadmap, and he had the advantage of hindsight. The question was, how soon should he start making his moves? He had nine days before the game launched. Nine days to set things in motion.


    A familiar voice jolted him from his thoughts.


    "Hey, Mark, you alright?"


    He turned to see Sophie, an old acquaintance¡ªsomeone who had once played a role in his downfall. His stomach twisted at the memory.


    "I''m fine," he said, forcing a neutral expression. "Just¡­ thinking."


    She smiled, but Mark no longer trusted that smile. Not after what she had done in his past life. This time, he would stay one step ahead.


    As they left the lecture hall, Mark knew one thing for certain¡ªhe wouldn''t let history repeat itself. Not for him. Not for anyone who had betrayed him.


    This time, he was going to win.


    As they walked toward the courtyard, Alex suddenly grabbed Mark''s arm, pulling him to a stop. His face was flushed with frustration.


    "Dude, what the hell?" Alex demanded. "Why didn''t you help me back there?"


    Mark raised an eyebrow, unfazed. "Help you? You weren''t paying attention."


    Alex scoffed. "Yeah, and? That''s never stopped you before! You could''ve thrown me a hint or something!"


    Mark shrugged. "Maybe it''s time you start paying attention for yourself."


    Alex frowned, searching Mark''s face for the usual easygoing response, but found something different instead. Something calculating. Mark wasn''t the same guy he remembered.


    "Seriously, what''s up with you today?" Alex muttered.


    Mark simply smirked. "Just thinking ahead."


    Alex rolled his eyes but let it go. "Whatever, man. Next time, at least give me a nudge."


    Mark chuckled. "No promises."


    They went to afternoon class again.


    Mark thinks about his friends Liam


    and alex will they betray him for money or can trust in mortal online so he thinking to use sophie for clearing Moles before game begins

 Chapter 3 the same trap

    The lecture hall hummed with the low murmur of students packing up their bags, scraping chairs against the tiled floor, and exchanging bits of conversation about assignments, weekend plans, or just the usual classroom gripes. Mark let out a small sigh as he closed his notebook, stuffing it into his backpack with a practiced motion. To his side, Alex stretched, groaning as he pushed his chair back."That was brutal," Alex muttered, rubbing his temples. "Professor Grant has a talent for making an hour feel like three."Mark smirked. "At least it''s over."The two stepped out into the hallway, the scent of coffee and ink mingling in the air as students streamed past them, heading toward their next classes or gathering in clusters to chat. The fluorescent lights buzzed faintly overhead, casting a dull glow on the off-white walls. The atmosphere was the usual post-lecture blend of exhaustion and relief.Mark was already considering what to do next¡ªmaybe grabbing a quick bite at the canteen¡ªwhen a voice cut through the hallway noise like a whipcrack."Hey, you two!" The voice was sharp, commanding, and laced with an unmistakable air of superiority.Sophie.She sauntered toward them, her confident smirk dripping with something between amusement and challenge. Her blonde hair was tied back in a high ponytail, and she wore a fitted black jacket over a sleek ensemble that screamed calculated dominance. Every step she took was precise, as if she was already playing a game only she knew the rules to."Come to the canteen with me," she said, not so much as a request but a decree.Mark''s expression didn''t waver, but inside, his pulse ticked up a notch. He knew Sophie all too well¡ªfar better than she realized. In his past life, she had been a master manipulator, weaving her web of deception so skillfully that by the time he realized he was trapped, it had been far too late. This was a woman who played for keeps, and now here she was again, acting as if the past had never happened, as if he was just another piece on her chessboard.Alex, blissfully unaware of the silent battle of wills, simply shrugged. "Uh, sure, I guess? We were thinking of heading there anyway."Sophie''s smirk widened, a glint of satisfaction flashing in her eyes. "Good. Because I have an offer for you."Mark said nothing, falling into step beside them as they made their way through the busy hallway. The canteen wasn''t far, just past a few classrooms and a stairwell leading down to the main entrance of the building. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of fried food, coffee, and something vaguely artificial¡ªprobably whatever energy drinks students were chugging to survive the semester.Sophie led them to a table near the corner, away from the main crowd, and dropped her bag onto the chair beside her. With an air of someone unveiling an inevitable fate, she pulled out a neatly printed document and slid it across the table toward them."I''m starting a guild in Mortal Online," she announced, her voice carrying the confidence of a general recruiting for war. "It''s called Dark Solution. It''s going to be the top guild in the game, and I want you two in it."Alex raised an eyebrow. "Wait, Mortal Online? The new VRMMO launching next month?"Sophie nodded, leaning forward as if sharing a delicious secret. "Exactly. The competition is going to be insane, but that''s why I''m forming the guild early. We need to secure top talent before the game even launches. And that''s where you two come in."Mark studied her carefully, keeping his expression unreadable. "And you want us to sign this contract?"Sophie rested her chin on her hand, her smile like a blade poised at the throat. "Think of it as a formal agreement. It guarantees your membership in Dark Solution and lays out the rules. We''re going to be highly organized, with structured roles, ranks, and responsibilities. If we want to dominate, we need discipline."Alex hesitated, reaching for the document but not picking it up yet. "This seems... intense for a game."Sophie scoffed, her eyes gleaming with barely concealed condescension. "This isn''t just a game. It''s going to be a battleground, and if you''re not part of something big, you''re just another nameless player getting crushed by the ones who planned ahead. You don''t want to be a bottom feeder, do you?"Mark almost laughed at that. It was such a typical move from her¡ªpositioning herself at the top, making others feel like they had no choice but to follow her lead. In his past life, he had fallen for it. He had trusted her. And she had burned him for it.But not this time.Instead of answering right away, he tapped his fingers lightly against the table, watching Sophie''s expression for any tells. She was confident¡ªtoo confident. She thought she already had them in the palm of her hand."So what''s in it for us?" Mark finally asked, tilting his head slightly. "Aside from not being ''bottom feeders.''"Sophie grinned, her teeth flashing like a predator about to pounce. "Power, influence, access to the best resources and strategies before anyone else. When Dark Solution takes over the game, you''ll be at the top instead of scrambling to catch up."Mark held back a smirk. You think you''re holding all the cards, don''t you?He exchanged a glance with Alex. This time, things would play out very differently.


    Sophie leaned back in her chair, fingers tapping lightly against the table as she observed Mark and Alex''s reactions. She had played this scenario in her head countless times. She knew how to sell an idea¡ªhow to dangle a golden opportunity just out of reach, making it irresistible."The terms of the contract are simple," she said, her voice smooth as silk. "All members of Dark Solution must adhere to a hierarchy. There will be designated roles: strategists, warriors, scouts, economic managers, and guild enforcers. Everyone will have a purpose."Alex glanced at the document hesitantly. "What if someone wants to play casually?"Sophie''s expression hardened slightly, but she masked it with a smile. "Casual players get swallowed up. Dark Solution is for those who want to be at the top. If you''re in, you commit."Mark traced a finger over the edge of the paper, scanning the clauses. He noticed the careful phrasing¡ªplayers would have limited freedom in choosing their playstyles. The guild master, Sophie, had ultimate authority over decisions. A clause regarding asset control caught his eye."This says all high-tier loot must be distributed through the leadership," he pointed out. "Does that mean we don''t get to keep what we earn?"Sophie waved a hand dismissively. "It''s to prevent hoarding. The best items go to those who contribute the most. It''s about fairness."Mark suppressed a smirk. Fairness? More like control.Alex seemed torn, but the allure of a structured, dominant guild was tempting. "It does sound organized¡­ but what if someone wants to leave?"Sophie''s gaze flickered for the briefest moment before she answered. "Why would you want to leave the best guild in the game?"Mark didn''t miss the underlying threat in her words. There was no clause about leaving¡ªmeaning Sophie controlled that, too.She leaned forward, placing her elbows on the table, her expression shifting into something more persuasive. "Look, I know how this sounds. But this isn''t some random gaming group. Dark Solution is going to be a powerhouse. We''re talking sponsorships, exclusive deals, and top-tier recognition in the VRMMO community. This isn''t just a guild¡ªit''s a brand."Alex''s eyes widened slightly. "Sponsorships?"Sophie nodded. "Of course. We''ll have a presence on streaming platforms, tournaments, and in-game commerce. If we dominate the leaderboards early, companies will want to invest in us. That means money, real money. And let''s be honest, isn''t that better than just grinding for fun?"Mark remained silent, processing her words. This was classic Sophie¡ªluring people in with promises of success, painting a vision of power and wealth so compelling that it was hard to resist. But what she didn''t mention was the cost."And what if we don''t perform well enough?" Mark asked, tilting his head slightly. "What happens to members who don''t meet expectations?"Sophie''s smile didn''t waver, but there was an edge to it now. "Then they get reassigned to roles that suit them better. Everyone has strengths. We make sure they''re used properly."Mark could almost hear the subtext. If you''re not useful, you''re disposable.Alex seemed impressed. "This could be big. I mean, imagine being part of something like this from the ground up."Sophie nodded, her gaze locking onto Mark. "Exactly. And that''s why I need smart, capable players like you two. This isn''t just an invite¡ªit''s a golden ticket."She pushed two pens toward them, her expression triumphant."Sign, and we take the first step toward something legendary."Mark stared at the contract. He could feel the weight of his past pressing against his chest. He knew what happened when people put blind faith in Sophie.She''s setting the stage. But this time, I''m not playing by her rules.Instead of reaching for the pen, he leaned back, giving her a small, knowing smile. "Let''s say we do sign. What''s stopping you from screwing us over later?"Sophie''s smirk faltered for the briefest second before she recovered. "Why would I do that to my own team?"Mark just kept smiling. Why indeed, Sophie?


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    Sophie''s fingers stopped tapping, her nails now resting silently on the table. The room felt heavier, the air thick with unspoken tension. She studied Mark, her sharp eyes narrowing ever so slightly. She had expected resistance from him¡ªhe was always the cautious one, the one who questioned everything. But this time, there was something different in his tone, something she couldn''t quite place. It wasn''t just skepticism; it was defiance."Mark," she began, her voice still smooth but with a hint of steel beneath it, "you''ve always been the thinker. That''s why I want you in Dark Solution. But overthinking can be a liability. Sometimes, you just have to take the leap."Mark''s smile didn''t waver. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, mirroring her posture. "And sometimes, Sophie, the leap lands you in a pit. I''ve seen how you operate. You''re brilliant at painting a picture, but you''re even better at erasing the fine print."Alex shifted uncomfortably in his seat, glancing between the two. He had always admired Sophie''s ambition, her ability to turn dreams into reality. But Mark''s words stirred something in him¡ªa flicker of doubt. He looked down at the contract again, his eyes lingering on the clause about asset control. "Mark''s got a point," he said hesitantly. "What if we''re not happy with how things are run? What if we want out?"Sophie''s gaze flicked to Alex, her expression softening just enough to seem reassuring. "Alex, I''m not here to trap anyone. This is about building something incredible together. If someone wants to leave, we''ll handle it professionally. But why focus on the exit when we''re just starting the journey?"Mark let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "Because the journey you''re selling doesn''t have an exit, Sophie. You''re not building a guild¡ªyou''re building a machine. And in machines, parts that don''t work get replaced."Sophie''s jaw tightened, but she quickly masked it with a smile. "You''re being dramatic, Mark. This is a game, not some dystopian empire. We''re here to have fun, to dominate, to make a name for ourselves. If that''s not what you want, then maybe Dark Solution isn''t for you."Mark leaned back again, his arms crossed. "Oh, I want to dominate. But not as a cog in your machine. I''ve seen how you treat people when they''re no longer useful. Remember what happened to Liam?"The name hung in the air like a storm cloud. Sophie''s composure cracked for a fraction of a second, her eyes flashing with something¡ªanger, guilt, maybe both. Liam had been one of her earliest recruits, a talented player who had helped her build her first guild. But when he started questioning her decisions, she had sidelined him, stripping him of his role and eventually pushing him out. Mark had watched it happen, and he hadn''t forgotten."Liam made his choices," Sophie said coldly. "He didn''t understand the bigger picture.""And what''s the bigger picture here?" Mark shot back. "Because from where I''m sitting, it looks like you''re building a kingdom where you''re the only one who gets to wear the crown."Alex''s eyes widened. He had never seen Mark challenge Sophie like this. It was unsettling, but also... refreshing. For the first time, he felt like someone was asking the questions he was too afraid to voice.Sophie took a deep breath, her calm demeanor returning. "Mark, you''re overcomplicating this. Dark Solution is about teamwork, about each of us playing to our strengths. Yes, I''ll be the guild master, but that''s because someone has to lead. And I''m good at it. You know that."Mark nodded slowly, his expression unreadable. "You are good at it. But leadership isn''t just about being good¡ªit''s about trust. And right now, I don''t trust you."The room fell silent. Sophie''s fingers twitched, as if she were resisting the urge to clench them into fists. She had expected pushback, but not this level of defiance. Mark was unraveling her carefully constructed pitch, and she couldn''t afford to lose control."Fine," she said finally, her voice clipped. "If you don''t trust me, then walk away. But don''t come crawling back when Dark Solution is at the top, and you''re still grinding in the shadows."Mark stood, his chair scraping against the floor. "I''ll take my chances." He turned to Alex, who was still seated, his face a mask of uncertainty. "Alex, you don''t have to sign anything you''re not comfortable with. Think about what you''re really getting into."Alex hesitated, his eyes darting between Mark and Sophie. He wanted the success, the recognition, but Mark''s words had planted a seed of doubt. "I... I need some time to think about it," he said quietly.Sophie''s smile returned, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "Take all the time you need, Alex. But remember, opportunities like this don''t come around often."Mark gave Alex a nod before turning to leave. As he reached the door, he paused and looked back at Sophie. "One last thing," he said. "You might be good at selling dreams, but dreams have a way of turning into nightmares when you''re not careful."Sophie didn''t respond, her expression unreadable. As the door closed behind Mark, she leaned back in her chair, her fingers resuming their rhythmic tapping against the table. The game had changed, and she would need to adapt. But one thing was certain¡ªshe wasn''t about to let Mark, or anyone else, stand in her way.Alex sat in silence, the weight of the decision pressing down on him. He looked at the contract, then at Sophie, who was now staring out the window, her mind clearly elsewhere. For the first time, he wondered if the golden opportunity she was offering was worth the price.And for the first time, he wasn''t sure if he wanted to find out.


    Note : what will alex do for first time mark is thinking is alex good friend or not he told him not sign contract but alex hesitated so alex will leave him when he was in struggle so mark stopped giving advice to him is it cold hearted descision no it must require to build our life in competitive world.i know many don''t like mark descision but he had 15 experience so he can judge alex is variable who can betray so it is a small test for him from mark if he followed Mark then he will save with without hesitation but if betrayed mark and signed contract there no need to help him

 Chapter 4 TRUST IS FRAGILE

    Mark sat alone in his dimly lit apartment, his mind racing. The events of the past few days played over and over again in his head, each moment a glaring reminder of his own failure. He had let emotions cloud his judgment, had trusted too easily when he should have questioned everything. He clenched his fists, frustration and regret boiling beneath the surface.Something had been off from the beginning. Sophie was making moves faster than expected, Alex was hesitant, and Liam¡­ Liam had been acting strangely. Mark had seen the signs, but he had ignored them, choosing instead to believe in his friendships, in his instincts.Liam had always been his go-to, his confidant in the war against Dark Solution. But now, something in his gut told him he''d been too trusting. If Liam was compromised, then Mark had only one play left: Alex.Alex was still uncertain, still on the edge. Mark needed to know if he could be trusted before it was too late. But he couldn''t just ask him outright. He needed a test¡ªone Alex wouldn''t even realize he was taking.---The next evening, Mark met Alex at their usual caf¨¦. The place was quiet, a few patrons scattered about, lost in their own worlds. Mark took a sip of his coffee before speaking."Alex, I need your help with something. Something big."Alex tensed. "What is it?"Mark leaned in, keeping his voice low. "Dark Solution is planning something, and I need to know what. I have a lead¡ªan inside source who might be willing to talk. But I need you to make contact. Sophie won''t suspect you the way she would me."Alex hesitated. "That sounds risky.""Only if you make it risky," Mark countered. "It''s simple. Meet this guy, get the info, and come straight back to me. Can you do that?"Alex looked down at his hands, then back up at Mark. "Yeah. I think I can."Mark nodded, but inside, he knew this was only the beginning. If Alex was loyal, this would be the first step in proving it. If he wasn''t¡­ then Mark would know soon enough.---As soon as Alex left, Mark pulled out his phone and dialed a number."Yeah?" the voice on the other end answered."Follow him," Mark said. "I need to know who he talks to.""Understood."Mark ended the call, exhaling slowly. He tapped his fingers against the table, the doubt creeping in again. He should have seen this sooner. He should have known Liam was a problem. But he had been so caught up in wanting to believe he had people he could trust that he had ignored the obvious.---Unable to shake his unease, Mark dialed another number¡ªLiam''s.Liam picked up after a few rings. "Mark. What''s up?"Mark kept his tone casual. "Just checking in. Something feels off. You still on our side?"There was a pause before Liam laughed. "Of course. You''re getting paranoid, man. Relax."Mark forced a chuckle. "Yeah, maybe. Just had to be sure.""You trust me, don''t you?" Liam asked, his voice smooth.Mark hesitated, then answered, "Yeah. I do."But as he hung up, he realized the truth¡ªhe didn''t. Not anymore.---Alex arrived at the meeting spot, a deserted warehouse on the edge of the city. He had barely stepped inside when a shadow emerged from the darkness."You''re late," Liam''s voice cut through the silence.Alex stiffened. "Liam? You''re the contact?"Liam smirked. "Let''s just say I''m interested in where your loyalties lie."Alex swallowed hard. "I thought you were on Mark''s side."Liam chuckled. "Mark''s side? There are no sides, Alex. Just winners and losers. And right now, you need to decide which one you want to be."Alex hesitated. He could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on him. If Liam was working for Sophie, that meant Mark was in the dark about more than just Alex. And if he walked away now, he would be walking away from power, from opportunity."What do you want from me?" Alex asked.Liam''s smile widened. "Just information. Tell Sophie what Mark is planning, and she''ll make sure you''re taken care of."Alex clenched his fists. "And if I don''t?"Liam''s expression turned cold. "Then you better hope Mark can protect you. But we both know how that story ends."Alex exhaled shakily. He had a choice to make. And deep down, he knew which one he would take.---The next day, Mark sat at the caf¨¦, waiting. He had expected Alex to come back with the information. Instead, he got silence.Then, Alex walked in, a strange determination in his eyes. He slid a paper across the table. Mark''s stomach dropped as he saw the signature¡ªAlex''s signature¡ªon a contract for Dark Solution."You signed it?" Mark''s voice was low, betrayed.Alex nodded. "I had to, Mark. You don''t understand."Mark sat back, the realization hitting him hard. He had been a fool. He had trusted too easily, let his emotions dictate his choices instead of using his brain. He had thought Alex was different, that Alex could resist the pull of power, but he had been wrong.The worst part? He had seen it coming and had ignored it.His fingers tightened around the edge of the table. Alex had failed the test. But worse than that, Liam had played him too. He had trusted the wrong people, and now, he was more alone than ever.Sophie had won this round. But Mark wasn''t done yet.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    The caf¨¦ was quiet, the hum of distant conversations blending with the soft clink of porcelain cups. Mark sat at a corner table, his fingers drumming lightly on the polished wood surface. His mind was racing, though his expression betrayed nothing. Across from him, Sophie slid into the seat with the grace of a predator settling in for the kill. Her smirk was razor-sharp, her eyes gleaming with a mix of amusement and triumph.


    "Oh, Mark," she drawled, her voice dripping with mockery. "You always think you''re smarter than you are. It''s adorable, really. But this?" She tapped the contract on the table with a perfectly manicured finger. "This is just tragic."


    Mark''s jaw tightened, but he kept his composure. He had expected this meeting, though not quite so soon. Sophie was always one step ahead, and he hated how much he admired that about her. "You gave Alex worse terms than before," he said, his tone neutral.


    Sophie laughed, a rich, melodic sound that carried an edge of cruelty. "Of course I did. Why would I reward hesitation? He made me wait. He made me doubt. That comes with a cost. And yet¡ª" she leaned forward, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper¡ª "he still signed. What does that tell you?"


    Mark exhaled slowly, his eyes flicking down to the document. The numbers were lower, the conditions harsher¡ªlonger hours, stricter control, and an absurdly high penalty for leaving Dark Solution. But what caught his attention was the final clause, buried in dense legalese at the bottom of the page. His fingers smoothed over the paper as he read it.


    *In the event of termination or breach of contract, all intellectual and proprietary assets contributed by the signee will become the sole property of Dark Solution, with no legal recourse or financial compensation.*


    A slow smirk tugged at Mark''s lips. Alex hadn''t just signed a bad deal¡ªhe had signed away everything. Every idea, every project he worked on under Dark Solution would belong to Sophie, permanently. And Alex didn''t even know.


    Sophie watched him, waiting for a reaction. Expecting anger. Frustration. Maybe even a desperate attempt to fix things. Instead, Mark chuckled.


    Her smirk faltered for the briefest second. "Something funny?"


    Mark leaned back in his chair, exuding an easy confidence. "Not at all. I just love seeing people get exactly what they deserve."


    Sophie blinked, then grinned, truly entertained now. "Oh, Mark. You really are full of surprises."


    "You too," he said smoothly. "You just did me a favor."


    That made her pause. "Did I?"


    Mark nodded, tapping the contract. "Alex was going to betray me."


    Sophie''s brow arched, but she didn''t interrupt.


    "He planned to wait until the game launched," Mark continued, his voice calm and measured. "Then he''d leave, taking my best developers with him. He had an entire exit strategy lined up, backed by one of our competitors. If he had succeeded, he would''ve gutted my company from the inside." He gestured to the contract. "But now? Thanks to you, he''s stuck. He can''t leave, he can''t steal anything, and if he tries, Dark Solution owns every idea in his head."


    Sophie tilted her head, studying him with a mix of curiosity and admiration. "You''re telling me¡­ I just saved you from a disaster?"


    "That''s exactly what you did," Mark said, his smirk widening. "So, really¡ªI should be thanking you."


    Sophie leaned back, crossing her arms. Her expression was thoughtful, but her eyes still sparkled with mischief. "Huh. And here I was hoping to see you panic."


    "Sorry to disappoint."


    She tapped a finger on the table, her nails clicking softly against the wood. "You know, Mark¡­ I can''t tell if you''re playing the long game or if you really are this unshakable."


    "Why not both?"


    Sophie let out a soft laugh, shaking her head. "One of these days, I''ll figure you out."


    "Good luck with that."


    She stood, smoothing down her blazer with practiced elegance. "I''d love to stay and bask in this delightful turn of events, but I have a company to run. You, on the other hand¡­" She paused, her gaze lingering on him. "Should probably start thinking about your next move. Because this?" She gestured to the contract. "This is just the beginning."


    With one last amused glance, she turned and strolled out of the caf¨¦, her heels clicking sharply against the floor. Mark watched her go, his mind already shifting to the next steps. He had known Sophie for years, and he knew better than to underestimate her. She was ruthless, brilliant, and always two moves ahead. But so was he.


    As the door swung shut behind her, Mark exhaled slowly, the weight of the moment settling over him. Alex had sealed his fate before he even had the chance to make his move. And Mark? He had never felt more at peace with it.

 Chapter 5 the trap

    Mark is still in cafe after sophie left he is sad for getting betrayed again by alex and Liam he is not sad but his mind is clouded with thoughts¡ªmemories of trust broken, the weight of disappointment settling in his chest. He stirs his coffee absentmindedly, staring at the swirling liquid as if it holds answers.


    Alex and Liam. He had given them chances, believed in their words, yet here he was again, left to pick up the pieces. He wasn''t sad¡ªno, sadness would mean he hadn''t seen this coming. Maybe deep down, he always knew. But the frustration, the sheer exhaustion of dealing with betrayal again, gnawed at him.


    The caf¨¦ bustled around him, laughter and conversations filling the air, but it all felt distant. His world had narrowed to the bitter taste of coffee and the dull ache in his mind.


    What now?


    Mark exhaled slowly, rubbing his temple as if he could push the thoughts away. The betrayal stung, but more than that, it left him questioning everything¡ªhis choices, his judgment, even himself. He had trusted Sophie. He had believed in her, confided in her, and now he realized that she had been the one pulling the strings all along.


    Alex and Liam had betrayed him, but not of their own accord. Sophie had orchestrated it, twisting their minds, feeding them lies until they turned against him. And then she had walked away, leaving him alone to deal with the wreckage.


    The caf¨¦ door swung open, letting in a gust of cool air, but Mark barely noticed. His mind was tangled in memories¡ªthe way Sophie had smiled, . Lies, all of it. He clenched his fists, anger bubbling beneath the surface.His phone buzzed. A message. He hesitated before picking it up.


    Mark know sophie is difficult to read as he had experience he betrayed by her at end in past life he is like her pawn discarded when the work is done now also he got second chance he was still like pawn he played by sophie but one thing he must not forget sophie helped him to clear moles otherwise he will suffer when mortal online launched now only vincent left let''s clear this mole also .


    Alex: Mark, we need to talk. Please.


    A bitter chuckle escaped him. Now they wanted to talk? After everything? After turning on him because of Sophie''s manipulation?


    He stared at the screen, his thumb hovering over the reply button.


    Should he hear them out? Or was he done letting people play with his trust?


    Mark tightened his grip on the phone, his jaw clenching. Every instinct screamed at him to ignore Alex''s message, to cut them all off and walk away. But a part of him¡ªthe part that still wanted answers¡ªhesitated.


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    What had Sophie told them? What lies had she spun to turn Alex and Liam against him? He needed to know. Not because he wanted to fix things, but because he refused to let her control the narrative.


    His fingers moved before he could stop himself.


    Mark: Where?


    The reply came almost instantly.


    Alex: Old train station. 30 minutes. Just you.


    Mark exhaled, his decision made. He downed the last of his coffee¡ªcold and bitter, fitting for the night¡ªand stood up.


    The city lights flickered outside as he stepped into the street, the weight of betrayal pressing against his chest. He wasn''t walking into this as a victim. If Sophie thought she could manipulate him and walk away unscathed, she was wrong.


    One way or another, he was going to get the truth.


    Mark narrowed his eyes, studying Alex and Liam under the dim glow of the broken station lights. Their expressions weren''t filled with guilt or regret like he had expected. Instead, there was something else¡ªanticipation.


    Alex took a step forward. "Look, Mark. We didn''t come here to apologize."


    Mark crossed his arms, his body tense. "Then why did you call me here?"


    Liam smirked slightly. "Sophie wants you to join us."


    Mark felt his chest tighten. "Join you?" The words felt wrong on his tongue. After everything, after the betrayal, they wanted him on their side?


    Alex nodded. "She never really wanted to betray you, Mark. It was a test."


    "A test?" Mark''s voice was dangerously low. "You mean she set me up, turned my friends against me, and then disappeared¡ªjust to see how I''d react?"


    Liam chuckled. "You don''t get it, do you? Sophie likes you, Mark. She sees potential in you. She always has."


    Mark clenched his fists. This was insane. They expected him to just forget everything, to pretend like it hadn''t mattered?


    Alex continued, his voice calm. "She had to know if you were strong enough. If you could handle betrayal and still think clearly. And you did. You didn''t break."


    Mark felt something cold settle in his chest. This wasn''t an apology. This was an invitation¡ªto something deeper, something darker.


    "So," Liam said, stepping closer, "are you in?"


    Mark exhaled, his mind racing. If he said no, they might not let him walk away. If he said yes, he would be stepping into Sophie''s world¡ªa world where trust was a game, and loyalty was a weapon.


    His lips curled into a small, humorless smile.


    "Where is she?"


    Alex and Liam exchanged a glance, as if silently debating how much to reveal. Then Alex spoke.


    "You''ll see her soon," he said. "But first, you have to prove yourself."


    Mark let out a short laugh, shaking his head. "Prove myself? After everything she pulled, she still thinks I need to earn a place?"


    Liam smirked. "That''s how it works, Mark. You don''t just get invited in¡ªyou show that you belong."


    Mark clenched his jaw. He should have expected this. Sophie didn''t do things the easy way.


    "And what exactly does she want me to do?"


    Alex stepped closer, lowering his voice. "There''s someone she wants gone. Not dead," he added quickly, seeing the flicker in Mark''s expression. "Just¡­ removed from the picture."


    Mark narrowed his eyes. "Who?"


    Liam pulled out his phone, tapping the screen before turning it toward Mark. A picture appeared¡ªgrainy, taken from a distance. A man in a suit, mid-conversation with someone unseen.


    "His name is Daniel Cross," Alex said. "He''s been interfering in Sophie''s plans. Your job is to make sure he stops."


    Mark stared at the photo. He didn''t recognize the man, but he recognized the weight of what they were asking. This wasn''t just about proving himself. It was about control¡ªabout making him take the first step down a path he might not come back from.


    He met Alex''s gaze. "And if I say no?"


    Liam sighed, slipping his phone back into his pocket. "Then this was a mistake, and we go back to being enemies."


    Mark''s fingers curled into a fist at his side. He had come here for answers. Instead, he was standing at a crossroads.


    Trust Sophie and step into her world?


    Or walk away, knowing she might never let him?


    He took a deep breath, then made his choice.

 Chapter 6 unknown meet

    Mark stared at the picture on Liam''s phone, then back at the two of them. He exhaled slowly, shaking his head.


    "No."


    Alex''s expression stiffened. "No?"


    "That''s right," Mark said, his voice firm. "I''m not playing Sophie''s games. I''m done."


    For a moment, there was silence. Then Liam scoffed, crossing his arms. "I knew it. You''re weak."


    Mark''s jaw tightened. "Weak? Because I won''t let her control me?"


    Alex''s face twisted with irritation. "No, because you had a chance to be part of something bigger. But you''d rather stay small. Pathetic."


    Liam chuckled darkly. "Sophie actually thought you had potential. Guess she was wrong."


    Mark felt something inside him harden. He had trusted these two once. Thought of them as friends. And now, they weren''t even trying to hide their disdain.


    "You really believe all that, don''t you?" Mark said, shaking his head. "That working for Sophie makes you powerful. That doing her dirty work gives you worth."


    Alex''s eyes flashed. "At least we''re not wasting our time pretending to be something we''re not."


    Mark took a step back. "Neither am I."


    Liam smirked. "Then you better stay out of our way."


    Mark met their stares, unflinching. "Or what?"


    Alex tilted his head. "You don''t want to find out."


    Mark let out a humorless laugh. "Funny. That''s exactly what I was thinking about you."


    He turned and walked away without another word. He didn''t look back. He didn''t need to.


    Because now, he knew exactly where he stood.


    As Mark walked away, his heart pounded in his chest. He wasn''t afraid¡ªno, he was done being afraid. But he wasn''t naive either. Sophie wouldn''t just let him go.


    The cold night air bit at his skin as he stepped onto the empty street. His mind raced, replaying the conversation. Liam and Alex were too far gone. Whatever Sophie had promised them, they''d swallowed it whole.


    His phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out, half-expecting a message from one of them. But the screen showed an unknown number.


    Unknown: You made the right choice. But it''s not over yet.


    Mark frowned. He glanced around, scanning the darkened sidewalks, the parked cars, the flickering streetlights.


    He typed back.


    Mark: Who is this?


    A few seconds passed. Then another message came through.


    Unknown: Someone who knows what Sophie is planning. Someone who wants to stop it.


    Mark''s grip tightened on his phone. If this was a trap, it was a convincing one.


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    His gut told him he was about to be dragged even deeper into something he barely understood.


    And for some reason, he texted back anyway.


    Mark: I''m listening.


    Mark stared at the screen, the name meant nothing to him.


    Mark: Who the hell is Daniel Cross?


    There was a long pause before the reply came.


    Unknown: Me.


    Mark''s grip on the phone tightened. His first instinct was to toss it away, but curiosity held him still.


    Mark: And why should I care?


    Daniel: Because I know what Sophie is planning. And if you walk away now, you''re going to regret it.


    Mark exhaled sharply. This was ridiculous. He had spent too much time being dragged into other people''s messes. Whatever Sophie was up to, it wasn''t his problem anymore.


    But if that were true, why couldn''t he ignore the message?


    Mark: I don''t work for Sophie. I don''t work for anyone. I''m done.


    Daniel: That''s what I said once too. But trust me, Mark. You''re not done. You''re just getting started.


    Mark shook his head, his pulse quickening.


    Mark: What do you want from me?


    Daniel: Meet me. Tomorrow night. Warehouse 17, Pier Street. I''ll show you exactly why walking away isn''t an option.


    Mark hesitated. This was insane. He had no reason to trust this guy. But something about the way Alex and Liam had spoken¡ªso sure of themselves, so convinced they were part of something bigger¡ªleft an itch in his mind.


    He needed to know.


    Mark: Fine.


    He locked his phone and shoved it in his pocket, exhaling a slow breath. He wasn''t walking back into Sophie''s world. He was just getting some answers.


    At least, that''s what he told himself.


    Mark stared at Daniel, taking in the guy''s worn hoodie and tired eyes. He didn''t look like some hardened criminal or a mastermind. He looked like¡­ well, like Mark. A college student who''d seen too much.


    "You don''t look like someone who''d be mixed up in all this," Mark said cautiously.


    Daniel smirked. "Neither do you." He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Look, I used to be where you are. Stuck in Sophie''s little game, thinking it was just a way to get ahead. But then I realized the truth."


    Mark frowned. "And what truth is that?"


    "That the contract is a dead end," Daniel said simply. "You think working for Sophie gives you power? It doesn''t. It just locks you in. Forever."


    Mark''s stomach twisted. He''d heard whispers about the contracts, the way people never really got out. But he hadn''t wanted to believe it.


    Daniel must have seen the doubt on his face because he pulled out his phone and slid it across the table. Mark glanced at the screen. It was an old email chain, buried under layers of encryption. The sender''s name was blacked out, but the words hit hard.


    "Once you sign, there''s no exit. You either serve, or you disappear."


    Mark clenched his jaw. "So how did you get out?"


    Daniel hesitated. "Because I saw another way. A way out that actually works. Ever heard of Mortal Online?"


    Mark blinked. "The game?"


    Daniel nodded. "It''s more than a game. It''s a proving ground. A place where people like us¡ªpeople who don''t want to be owned¡ªcan build something real."


    Mark leaned back, skeptical. "You''re telling me you escaped Sophie by playing Mortal Online?"


    Daniel chuckled. "Not exactly. But I saw potential in it. A system where power isn''t given, it''s earned. No contracts, no strings, just skill and strategy. I realized that if I was going to bet on something, I''d rather bet on myself than be someone''s pawn."


    Mark exhaled. "And now you''re inviting me?"


    Daniel''s gaze was steady. "I''m seeing if you''re like me¡­ or if you''re just another fool who thinks he can walk away without a plan."


    Mark felt the weight of the decision settle on him.


    Stay blind and hope Sophie forgot about him? Or take a gamble on something unknown?


    He looked back at Daniel.


    "...Tell me more."


    Mark''s breath hitched. He hadn''t expected that.


    His mind raced. Mortal Online. It was his backup plan, his escape route. He had spent months studying it, testing strategies, figuring out how he could turn it into something bigger. Something real.


    But he had never told anyone.


    His eyes snapped to Daniel. "How do you know about Mortal Online?"


    Daniel smirked. "Because I did the same thing you did."


    Mark stiffened. No way. No one else had seen it the way he did¡ªno one else had looked at the game and understood its potential, not just as a game, but as something more.


    Daniel leaned forward, elbows on the table. "You thought you were the only one, didn''t you?"


    Mark didn''t answer. He didn''t have to.


    Daniel exhaled, shaking his head. "I get it. You figured out the contract is a dead end. You saw the trap. And instead of trying to fight Sophie directly, you started looking for another way." He tilted his head. "And you found Mortal Online."


    Mark''s pulse pounded in his ears. "How long have you known?"


    "Long enough." Daniel''s expression was unreadable. "The real question is¡ªhow long until Sophie knows?"


    Mark went cold. He had always been careful, always kept his plans hidden. But if Daniel had figured it out, how much longer until Sophie did?


    Daniel sat back. "That''s why you''re here, Mark. You can''t just walk away. You need a real exit."


    Mark''s hands clenched into fists. He hated how right Daniel sounded.


    "What are you offering?" Mark asked, voice low.


    Daniel''s smirk returned. "A way to turn Mortal Online into more than just an escape. A way to make it our battleground."


    Mark inhaled slowly. He had thought he was ahead of the game. Now, he wasn''t so sure.


    But one thing was certain¡ªhe couldn''t afford to ignore this.


    Mark''s mind reeled. Mortal Online¡ªhis way out, his last resort¡ªwas something Daniel had figured out too?But there was a difference. Mark had known about Mortal because of his past. The long nights spent buried in forums, the strategies he had honed over the years, the obsession that had started before he ever got involved with Sophie. It wasn''t just a game to him. It was the only system he had ever found where control wasn''t dictated by contracts, where power wasn''t handed down but taken by those who knew how to play the game.But Daniel? He didn''t have that same past. He had figured it out now, on his own.Mark''s jaw tightened. "You didn''t grow up with this. You didn''t have Mortal as a backup plan from the start." He studied Daniel, watching his reaction. "So how the hell did you figure it out?"Daniel smiled slightly. "Because I looked at the system." He tapped the side of his head. "Same way I looked at Sophie''s operation. The contracts, the power structures¡ªit''s all a game. A rigged one."Mark''s pulse quickened. He had thought the same thing.Daniel continued, "I started thinking¡ªif Sophie''s world is a game, then what''s the alternative? Where''s the unrigged system? Something with stakes, but without a leash." He met Mark''s eyes. "And then I found Mortal Online."Mark exhaled slowly. It made sense, in a way. Daniel wasn''t like him, someone who had known about Mortal for years. Daniel had reached the same conclusion through knowledge, by studying Sophie''s world and realizing where real power could be built."You built a plan from scratch," Mark murmured.Daniel nodded. "And you? You already knew. You saw it before I did."Mark clenched his fists. It was unsettling. He had always assumed he was alone in this. That no one else would ever see Mortal for what it really was.But now, sitting across from Daniel, he realized something else.If Daniel had figured it out¡­Then Sophie might, too.Mark met Daniel''s stare, his voice steady. "So what do we do?"Daniel''s smirk widened. "We stop playing Sophie''s game." His eyes gleamed. "And we start playing ours."

 Chapter 7 the escape

    Mark''s mind raced as he and Daniel left the warehouse. The cold night air felt heavier now, thick with the weight of what they had just discussed.


    "This is bigger than I thought," Mark muttered.


    Daniel shot him a look. "Yeah. And it''s only going to get worse if Sophie catches wind of what we''re doing."


    Mark exhaled sharply. He knew that. He had always known Sophie wouldn''t just let him walk away. That was why he had planned his exit so carefully. But now, with Daniel in the mix, everything felt more real.


    They walked in silence toward Mark''s apartment. It wasn''t far¡ªjust a few blocks away¡ªbut every step felt like the air was pressing down on him.


    When they turned the last corner, Mark''s stomach twisted.


    Alex and Liam were waiting outside his building.


    Daniel saw them at the same time. He didn''t stop walking, didn''t hesitate. "Keep moving," he muttered under his breath.


    Mark''s pulse pounded. Alex was leaning against the wall, arms crossed, while Liam paced nearby, clearly impatient. They hadn''t spotted him yet.


    "We can''t just run," Mark whispered.


    Daniel smirked slightly. "Watch me."


    He grabbed Mark''s sleeve and pulled him into the nearest alleyway. They moved quickly, slipping through the narrow passage between buildings.


    Behind them, a voice rang out.


    "Mark."


    He froze. Alex had seen him.


    Liam''s footsteps pounded against the pavement. "You really thought you could just disappear?"


    Daniel didn''t waste a second. He grabbed a metal trash can and shoved it over, sending it crashing into the alleyway behind them. It wasn''t much, but it was enough to slow Liam down.


    "Move!" Daniel snapped.


    Mark didn''t hesitate. He sprinted after Daniel, weaving through the alleyways. He could hear Alex and Liam cursing behind them, their footsteps quick but not as precise.


    They reached the other side of the block and bolted into the street. Mark''s apartment was out of the question now. He knew what Alex and Liam wanted¡ªto drag him back to Sophie, to force him into a choice that wasn''t a choice at all.


    Daniel slowed as they reached a crowded sidewalk. He scanned their surroundings, thinking fast.


    "We can''t stay on the streets," Daniel said. "We''ll go to my sister''s place. No one knows about it. She''ll cover for us."


    Mark hesitated. "Your sister?"


    "She won''t ask questions. And my girlfriend''s staying with her right now. Two extra sets of eyes watching our backs."


    Mark clenched his jaw. It wasn''t a perfect plan, but it was better than running blind.


    "Fine. Let''s go."


    Daniel nodded. "Stay close."


    Without looking back, they slipped into the crowd, heading toward the only safe place they had left.


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    Twenty Minutes Later


    Mark followed Daniel through the dimly lit streets, his pulse still racing from their escape. The tension in his body hadn''t eased, not even after they had put enough distance between them and Alex. His instincts screamed that they weren''t safe yet.


    Daniel, on the other hand, walked like they had just come back from a casual night out. The cocky ease in his stride annoyed Mark, but he held his tongue. They needed a place to lay low, and right now, Daniel was the only one with a plan.


    Finally, they reached a small apartment complex on the east side of town. Daniel jogged up the stairs, knocked twice on a door, then leaned against the frame as they waited.


    A moment later, the door swung open, revealing a young woman with dark curls and tired eyes. She blinked in surprise.


    "Daniel?"


    "Hey, sis," Daniel said, flashing a grin. "Miss me?"


    The woman¡ªDaniel''s sister¡ªsighed, rubbing her temple. "What do you want?"


    Before Daniel could answer, another figure appeared behind her. A girl with sharp eyes and a teasing smirk¡ªhis girlfriend.


    "Daniel," she drawled, crossing her arms. "You''re late."


    Mark expected Daniel to keep things serious. They were on the run, after all. But instead, his so-called reliable partner leaned against the doorframe and smirked.


    "Couldn''t stay away from two of the most beautiful women I know," he said smoothly.


    Mark closed his eyes for a second. Are you kidding me?


    Daniel''s sister groaned. "You''re unbelievable."


    His girlfriend just rolled her eyes. "You''re lucky I like you, idiot."


    Mark felt a headache creeping in. They were being hunted, and here Daniel was, flirting like they were at some bar. He should''ve known better than to trust him with something this serious.


    "Can we come in?" Mark snapped, frustration seeping into his voice.


    Daniel''s sister hesitated but stepped aside. "Fine. But you better start explaining what kind of mess you''ve dragged in this time."


    Daniel winked at his girlfriend as he stepped inside. "Oh, it''s a long story, babe. You''ll love it."


    Mark followed, already regretting every decision that had led him here.


    Inside the Apartment


    Mark stepped in, his shoulders tense. The apartment was small but cozy, the scent of coffee lingering in the air. A couch sat against one wall, a few blankets tossed over it, and a tiny kitchen was visible past the living room.


    Daniel flopped onto the couch like he owned the place, stretching his arms behind his head. His girlfriend sat beside him, raising an eyebrow. His sister, meanwhile, stood with her arms crossed, waiting for an explanation.


    Mark didn''t waste time. "We''re in trouble."


    Daniel''s sister scoffed. "Of course you are. It''s you."


    Daniel grinned. "C''mon, Liz. You wound me."


    Liz shot him a glare. "Shut up." She turned to Mark. "What did he do this time?"


    Mark hesitated. How much could he say? He wasn''t sure how deep Daniel''s sister or his girlfriend were in this mess¡ªor if they even knew about Sophie. But keeping them in the dark wouldn''t help.


    "We ran into some guys tonight," Mark said carefully. "They''re working for someone we don''t want to cross."


    Liz''s expression darkened. "Sophie?"


    Mark stiffened. "You know about her?"


    Liz scoffed. "Please. You think I don''t know what kind of people my brother gets involved with?" She shot Daniel a sharp look. "I told you to stay out of that mess."


    Daniel raised his hands innocently. "Technically, I never said I was in it."


    Mark clenched his jaw. "They were waiting outside my apartment. We barely got away. We can''t stay out in the open."


    Liz sighed, rubbing her temples. "So, what, you want to hide here? You think that''s safe?"


    Daniel''s girlfriend, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke. "If Sophie''s people saw you, it won''t take long for them to find this place."


    Mark nodded. "I know. That''s why we can''t stay long. Just long enough to figure out our next move."


    Daniel''s girlfriend gave him a long look. "And what is the next move?"


    Mark opened his mouth¡ªbut hesitated. What was the next move? He had been running on instinct, but they couldn''t run forever. He needed a plan.


    Daniel, of course, was no help. He leaned closer to his girlfriend, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You look amazing tonight, by the way," he murmured.


    Mark exhaled sharply. "Oh, for¡ªcan you focus?"


    Daniel smirked. "Multitasking, buddy."


    Liz looked seconds away from smacking him.


    Mark ran a hand through his hair. "We need a place that Sophie''s people won''t check. Somewhere off the grid."


    Liz frowned. "I might know a place, but it''s costly."


    Daniel sat up. "Now that sounds interesting."


    Liz is talking to Daniel, Mark, and Ana, saying:


    "A place that is very costly, where only one person stays¡ªwhat do you think it is? It''s a mansion!"


    She pauses, letting them think about it before revealing the answer.


    Daniel furrows his brows. "But aren''t mansions usually for families or rich people with big staff?"


    Mark nods. "Yeah, it doesn''t make sense if only one person stays there."


    Ana chuckles. "Maybe Liz is talking about a billionaire who lives alone in a huge mansion. Some people do that, you know."


    Liz smiles. "Exactly! It''s just a fun way to describe it. A big, expensive place, but only one person enjoying all that space."


    Daniel laughs. "Well, I wouldn''t mind living alone in a mansion!"


    Mark smirks. "If you can afford one!"


    Ana grins. "Then we better start making some money!"


    Mark exhaled, crossing his arms. "Alright, Liz. What''s this place you''re talking about?"


    Liz smirked. "It''s a mansion. Right in the middle of the city."


    Mark frowned. "A mansion? In the city? And we''re just supposed to stay there without any problems?"


    Liz shrugged. "We''re not squatting, if that''s what you''re thinking. We''re renting it."


    Daniel raised an eyebrow. "Renting? Who the hell rents out rooms in a mansion?"


    Ana chuckled. "Rich people get bored. Maybe she just wants company."


    Liz nodded. "Pretty much. The owner is a billionaire, and she rents out a few rooms in the mansion just because she can. No interviews, no background checks¡ªif you can pay, you stay. And we can pay."


    Mark''s eyes narrowed. "You sure about this? What kind of person just lets random people move into their house?"


    Liz smirked. "She''s eccentric. One of those billionaires who does things just because they seem interesting. She doesn''t care who stays as long as you don''t bother her."


    Daniel grinned. "A billionaire roommate? Sounds fun."


    Ana raised an eyebrow. "Or dangerous."


    Liz sighed. "Look, she''s not the problem here. Sophie''s people are. Do you want a safe place or not?"


    Mark ran a hand through his hair. "¡­Fine. How much is the rent?"


    Liz grinned. "Already covered for the first month. You''re welcome."


    Daniel whistled. "Damn, Liz. You really know the right people."


    Liz smirked. "I try."


    Mark still wasn''t sure about this, but they didn''t have many options. A billionaire''s mansion, a safe place to stay, and no questions asked. It was too good to be true¡ªbut at least for now, it was their best shot.


    "Alright," he said. "Let''s meet our new


    landlord."


    With that, they grabbed their things and headed toward their new home¡ªwhere a billionaire woman waited, ready to share her mansion with a group of fugitives who needed a place to disappear.

 Chapter 8 mansion

    Packing Up ¨C Daniel Being Daniel


    Mark shoved a few shirts into his backpack, trying to focus on the task at hand. They had to move fast¡ªLiz had already set up the rental, and the longer they stayed here, the higher the chance of Sophie''s people catching up.


    Daniel, on the other hand, was taking his sweet time.


    "This is exciting, don''t you think?" Daniel grinned as he held up two shirts. "Mark, be honest. Am I more of a dangerous rebel in black or a mysterious heartbreaker in navy blue?"


    Mark didn''t even glance up. "Just pack."


    Daniel sighed dramatically. "You have no vision." He tossed both shirts into his bag without folding them. "We''re moving into a billionaire''s mansion, Mark. This is the kind of thing people dream about! You could at least pretend to be excited."


    Mark shot him a look. "We''re not moving in for fun, Daniel. We''re hiding."


    Daniel smirked. "Hiding in luxury." He pulled out a pair of sunglasses from his bag and slid them on. "Maybe she has a pool. Maybe she has a private chef. Maybe she¡ª"


    Ana groaned. "Maybe you should actually pack instead of fantasizing."


    Daniel turned to her, dramatically placing a hand over his chest. "Ana, please. A man must prepare himself mentally before stepping into high society."


    Liz rolled her eyes. "You''re renting a room, not inheriting an empire."


    Daniel grinned. "Same thing."


    Mark shook his head, zipping up his bag. "You do realize that the woman renting us this place is a billionaire, right? Not some college girl looking for a roommate?"


    Daniel smirked. "Hey, billionaires are people too. Maybe she''s lonely. Maybe she''s looking for meaning in her life."


    Ana scoffed. "And you think you''re the meaning she''s looking for?"


    Daniel wiggled his eyebrows. "I''m every woman''s dream."


    Mark let out a slow, exhausted sigh. "I hate this plan."


    Liz threw a sweater at Daniel''s face. "Just pack, Romeo."


    Daniel peeled the sweater off his head, still grinning. "Fine, fine. But if I end up charming our new landlady, don''t be jealous."


    Mark rolled his eyes. "Oh, trust me. That won''t be a problem."


    With Daniel still being insufferable, they finished packing and prepared to leave¡ªheaded to mansion


    Mark sat in the backseat, staring out the window as the city blurred past. He tried to focus on the fact that they were heading toward safety, that this move made sense, but all he could think was:Why was I reborn in this hell?Daniel, sitting in the front passenger seat, had his feet propped up on the dashboard like he owned the car. Worse, he had taken it upon himself to make this drive as unbearable as humanly possible."So, ladies," Daniel began, stretching his arms behind his head, "this is kind of a special moment. Moving into a mansion together. Just the four of us. Feels like fate, don''t you think?"Liz, who was driving, didn''t even glance at him. "Feels like I should''ve left you on the curb."Ana sighed. "Daniel, shut up."But Daniel was already in full Daniel mode. He leaned toward Liz with a smirk. "Sis, have I ever told you how much I appreciate you? You''re smart, independent, and honestly? The best driver I''ve ever had the pleasure of being chauffeured by."Liz''s hands tightened on the wheel. "I will throw you out of this car."Mark sighed, rubbing his temples. Why am I even here? Why didn''t I just let Alex and Liam catch me? Would that have been better? Maybe it would''ve been quieter¡­Daniel, apparently sensing that annoying his sister wasn''t enough, turned to Ana. "And you, Ana¡ªgorgeous, brilliant, probably the only one in this car with actual taste¡ª"Ana cut him off. "Daniel, I swear to God¡ª""¡ªdon''t you think this is kind of romantic?" Daniel continued, unfazed. "The four of us, running from danger, moving into a mansion together? It''s like the start of a dramatic romance novel." He grinned. "I think we should embrace it."Ana groaned. "I think you should jump out of the car."Mark exhaled sharply. "Daniel, if I have to listen to this for one more second, I''m jumping out of the car."Daniel turned to him with a wounded expression. "Mark, buddy, come on. You and me, we''re the heart of this operation. You can''t leave me alone with these two beautiful, but violent women."Liz and Ana, in perfect sync, both punched his arm."OW! Damn, alright, alright! No appreciation for my humor." Daniel rubbed his arm, still grinning. "But, in all seriousness¡­ You think our new landlady''s single?"Mark groaned and let his head fall back against the seat.Why am I still alive?The car sped toward the mansion, Daniel still talking, Liz gripping the wheel like she wanted to crash just to shut him up, and Ana contemplating murder.Mark had a feeling this was only the beginning of his suffering.


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    As they stepped into the mansion, Mark took a moment to process just how absurdly rich their new landlady was.


    The place was massive¡ªhigh ceilings, sleek modern decor, walls lined with expensive artwork. The kind of house where even breathing wrong felt like it would cost money.


    Daniel, of course, had no such concerns.


    "Wow," he whistled, looking around. "Now this is what I call living." He turned to the woman in charge, his signature smirk already in place. "So, Miss Billionaire, what should we call you? Or do I just stick with ''Gorgeous''?"


    The woman stopped mid-stride and turned to him. "You can call me Celeste." She took another sip of wine, eyes unreadable. "And you can stop flirting."


    Daniel grinned. "Impossible. It''s in my nature. And honestly, Celeste, I think we should talk about this chemistry between us."


    Mark pinched the bridge of his nose. Why is he like this?


    Liz and Ana, meanwhile, both looked way too entertained.


    Celeste arched a brow. "Chemistry?"


    Daniel leaned casually against the nearest expensive-looking chair. "Oh yeah. You, me, a massive mansion, fate bringing us together? I think it''s the start of something beautiful."


    Celeste sighed, set down her wine, and¡ªbefore anyone could react¡ªgrabbed Daniel by the arm, twisted it behind his back, and effortlessly flipped him onto the floor.


    WHAM.


    Silence.


    Daniel groaned from the ground. "Ow."


    Celeste smirked. "You were saying?"


    Ana burst out laughing. "Oh my God. I love her."


    Liz folded her arms, nodding approvingly. "Finally, someone puts him in his place."


    Mark, for the first time that day, actually felt peace.


    Daniel groaned, still sprawled on the floor. "Okay, first of all¡­ ow. Second of all¡­ I think I''m in love."


    Celeste grabbed her wine again and took a slow sip. "Good. Then you can love me from a safe distance."


    Ana grinned. "Celeste, if you ever need help throwing him out a window, just let us know."


    Celeste smiled. "Noted." She gestured for them to follow her again. "Come on. I''ll show you your rooms. Try not to touch anything expensive."


    As they followed, Daniel staggered to his feet, rubbing his back. "Damn. She''s strong."


    Mark smirked. "So, still convinced she likes you?"


    Daniel winced. "More than ever."


    Liz rolled her eyes. "You deserved that."


    Daniel sighed dramatically. "Maybe. But in my heart? Worth it."


    And just like that, they had officially moved in¡ªwith a billionaire landlady who clearly wasn''t going to put up with any of Daniel''s nonsense.


    Mark had a feeling this was going to be very interesting.


    As they followed Celeste through the mansion, Daniel¡ªstill rubbing his back from where he''d been flipped¡ªkept going.


    "So, Celeste," he said, falling into step beside her, "are you secretly a martial arts master, or do you just enjoy manhandling handsome men?"


    Celeste didn''t even look at him. "I enjoy shutting up idiots."


    Mark nearly choked on his own laughter. Liz and Ana? Absolutely thriving.


    Daniel, undeterred, grinned. "Damn. You wound me."


    Celeste finally turned her head slightly, giving him a very unimpressed look. "Not yet. But if you keep talking, I might."


    Ana whispered to Liz, "I think I have a new role model."


    Liz nodded. "I hope she throws him out a window next."


    Meanwhile, Daniel just looked more entertained. "You know, Celeste, I think you and I got off on the wrong foot¡ª"


    Celeste suddenly stopped walking. Daniel, caught off guard, barely managed to halt himself before crashing into her.


    She turned, and in one swift motion¡ªshe grabbed him by the collar and shoved him against the nearest wall.


    Daniel blinked. "Oh."


    Celeste leaned in slightly, voice dangerously smooth. "Listen, Romeo."


    Daniel swallowed. "Yes, ma''am?"


    "You''re cute. I''ll give you that. But if you keep testing me, I''ll make you regret it."


    Daniel, looking far too pleased with himself, smirked. "So you do think I''m cute."


    Celeste let go of him so fast that he nearly stumbled forward. "I think you''re an idiot."


    Ana and Liz were dying of laughter.


    Mark just ran a hand down his face. Why am I still here?


    Celeste exhaled, clearly restraining herself. "Your rooms are upstairs. If you need anything, don''t."


    She turned and strode off, clearly done with them.


    Daniel grinned, watching her go. "I love her."


    Mark groaned. "Daniel. Stop."


    Liz shook her head. "I give him a week before she actually kills him."


    Ana smirked. "I give her three days."


    Mark sighed, already regretting everything. This was going to be chaos.


    And somehow, Daniel still wasn''t done.

 Chapter 9 virtual helmet

    After Celeste had made it very clear that she wouldn''t tolerate Daniel''s nonsense, she led them to the main living area. It was sleek, modern, and so absurdly luxurious that Mark was still struggling to process that he was actually living here now.


    But before they could settle in, Celeste turned to face them, arms crossed.


    "Rent is due on the first of every month. Fifteen thousand credits. No exceptions."


    Daniel whistled. "Wow. You really know how to kill a mood."


    Celeste gave him a look that promised violence. "I could raise it to twenty if you''d like."


    Daniel immediately straightened. "Fifteen is perfect. Love that number. Very reasonable."


    Mark barely heard them. His stomach twisted as he checked his bank account. 20,000 credits.


    The money his parents had given him.


    The money that was supposed to last him through college.


    He clenched his jaw, then¡ªbefore he could overthink it¡ªhe transferred 15,000 credits to Celeste.


    Balance left: 5,000 credits.


    Mark exhaled slowly, ignoring the way his chest felt tight. No use worrying about it now. What''s done is done.


    Celeste''s device buzzed, and she checked it. Then she looked at Mark, mildly impressed. "Huh. At least one of you takes this seriously."


    Daniel leaned over to peek at Mark''s screen. "Damn, man. You just paid it? Just like that?"


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    Mark shot him a dry look. "What else was I supposed to do?"


    Daniel grinned. "I don''t know¡ªnegotiate? Maybe charm our lovely landlady into giving us a discount?"


    Celeste smiled. "That would''ve doubled your rent."


    Daniel immediately shut up.


    Liz snorted. "I love this woman."


    Ana smirked. "Same."


    Mark sighed, rubbing his temples. He had just given away almost everything he had.


    Now, he needed a plan.


    Because if he didn''t figure out how to make money soon, next month was going to be a disaster.


    Mark smirked. They don''t know what I know.


    Because this wasn''t just some random idea. He knew Mortal Online inside and out.


    Before his rebirth, he had played it obsessively, mastering every exploit, every market trick, every hidden dungeon and rare loot drop. He wasn''t just good at the game. He was unstoppable.


    This time, he had the ultimate advantage¡ªknowledge of the future.


    He leaned back, acting casual. "Yeah, it''s hard. But if you know what you''re doing, you can make tens of thousands of credits in a month. Easy."


    Daniel raised an eyebrow. "And you know what you''re doing?"


    Mark smirked. "I know everything."


    Ana frowned. "Wait, why do you sound so confident?"


    Mark just shrugged. "Let''s just say... I''ve played a lot."


    Liz crossed her arms. "That still doesn''t solve our helmet problem. You''re the only one with enough money to buy one."


    Before Mark could answer, Celeste cleared her throat.


    They all turned to look at her.


    She casually leaned against the wall, arms crossed, and said, "I have three helmets."


    Silence.


    Daniel blinked. "Wait. What?"


    Celeste smirked. "You think I''m renting out a mansion for fun? I make money in Mortal Online too."


    Mark''s mind raced. She plays? That meant she was already in the game''s economy. Did she know any of the future exploits?


    More importantly¡­ was she a threat or an opportunity?


    Daniel grinned. "Celeste, I take back every bad thing I''ve ever said about you."


    Celeste raised an eyebrow. "That''s nice. You''re still paying rent."


    Mark exhaled. "Alright. Then it''s settled. We''re all going in."


    Liz crossed her arms. "And what exactly is the plan?"


    Mark''s smirk widened. "We''re going to break the game."


    Celeste''s smirk widened as she looked directly at Daniel. "You can use my helmets¡­ on one condition."


    Daniel leaned forward. "Name it."


    Celeste''s grin turned wicked. "You''ll be my pet for a day."


    Silence.


    Then¡ª


    "Deal." Mark, Liz, and Ana all said at the same time.


    Daniel''s eyes widened in horror. "Wait¡ªWHAT?!"


    Mark clapped his hands. "Great! That settles it."


    Liz smirked. "Nice doing business with you, Celeste."


    Ana grinned. "This is gonna be fun."


    Daniel whipped around, looking betrayed. "You guys didn''t even THINK about it!?"


    Mark shrugged. "We don''t have time to think."


    Liz nodded. "It''s a good deal."


    Ana added, "And honestly? You kinda deserve it."


    Daniel pointed at her. "YOU''RE SUPPOSED TO BE ON MY SIDE!"


    Celeste looked way too pleased. "Oh, don''t worry, Danny. I''ll take good care of you."


    Daniel groaned. "I hate all of you."


    Mark patted his shoulder. "We love you too, buddy. Now, let''s get those helmets."


    Celeste smirked. "Tomorrow, you''re mine."

 Chapter 10 daniel bad day

    Daniel''s Ultimate Humiliation


    Daniel sat there, betrayed, broken, and utterly doomed. He looked at the three people he once called his friends¡ªMark, Liz, and Ana¡ªand realized¡­


    They had sold him out in less than a second.


    And now? He was Celeste''s pet.


    For a whole. Damn. Day.


    He groaned, burying his face in his hands. "You guys didn''t even hesitate."


    Mark shrugged. "The deal was too good to pass up."


    Ana grinned. "Besides, this is hilarious."


    Liz smirked. "You would''ve done the same thing to us."


    Daniel opened his mouth¡ªthen closed it. He couldn''t even argue. He absolutely would have.


    But that didn''t mean he had to accept his fate quietly.


    He turned to Celeste, narrowing his eyes. "Alright, evil queen. What exactly do I have to do?"


    Celeste looked way too pleased. She took a dramatic step forward, hands on her hips. "Oh, Daniel, my dear, sweet pet. Your suffering shall be glorious."


    Daniel winced. "I already hate this."


    Celeste held up one finger. "First, you''ll address me properly."


    Daniel frowned. "What do you mean?"


    Celeste smirked. "You will call me ''Mistress Celeste.''"


    Mark choked on air. Liz had to turn away to hide her laughter. Ana? Ana was outright wheezing.


    Daniel''s eye twitched. "No."


    Celeste leaned closer. "Then no helmets."


    Daniel clenched his jaw. His dignity was worth more than this.


    ¡­Or at least, it would have been¡ªif his livelihood wasn''t at stake.


    He groaned. "Fine. Mistress Celeste."


    Ana fell off the couch laughing.


    Liz wiped a tear from her eye. "This is the best deal we''ve ever made."


    Celeste grinned. "Good boy."


    Daniel twitched. "I swear to god¡ª"


    "Next rule," Celeste interrupted. "You''ll be my personal servant all day. That means opening doors, carrying my bags, and making sure I don''t have to lift a finger."


    Daniel groaned. "Fine. Whatever."


    Celeste''s smirk widened. "And of course¡­ your outfit."


    Daniel froze.


    Liz perked up. "Wait, what outfit?"


    Celeste tapped her chin, pretending to think. "I was debating between a maid outfit and a catboy hoodie, but honestly¡­" She grinned evilly. "I think a bunny suit would be perfect."


    Dead silence.


    Mark completely lost it. He had to lean on the wall for support. Ana was crying from laughter. Liz? She looked absolutely delighted.


    Daniel, however, looked ready to drop dead on the spot.


    "You. Wouldn''t. Dare."


    Celeste tilted her head. "No helmets, then?"


    Daniel gritted his teeth. His fists clenched. He looked at the helmets¡ªtheir ticket to survival.


    And then he sighed, accepting his fate.


    "¡­Fine."


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    Mark wiped a tear from his eye. "Best. Day. Ever."


    Celeste clapped her hands together. "Wonderful! Now, my pet, get ready for your first task¡ªfetch me a drink."


    Daniel growled under his breath. But he had no choice.


    He stomped toward the kitchen, his soul leaving his body.


    Liz grinned. "I should''ve gotten popcorn for this."


    Ana leaned back. "Oh, don''t worry. We have a whole day to enjoy this."


    Mark smirked. "And maybe even longer if Celeste decides to extend the contract."


    Daniel, from the kitchen, shouted: "OVER MY DEAD BODY."


    Celeste simply laughed. "Oh, Danny. We''re going to have so much fun."


    The sun barely peeked through the curtains when Daniel was rudely awoken by Celeste''s voice."Rise and shine, pet! Your first official day of servitude begins now."Daniel groaned and buried his face in the pillow. "Nope. Not happening."The blanket was ripped off him."Oh, it''s happening," Celeste said, grinning wickedly.Daniel squinted up at her, still half-asleep. "You''re enjoying this way too much."Celeste shrugged. "It''s your own fault for flirting with me nonstop. Consider this karma."Mark poked his head into the room, smirking. "Hey, Mister Pet. Breakfast won''t make itself."Ana stretched, looking refreshed. "Yeah, get to work, servant boy."Liz yawned. "Don''t forget coffee."Daniel sat up, his exhausted, betrayed, and deeply offended expression making everyone else laugh."I hate all of you," he muttered.Celeste threw something at him. He caught it automatically¡ªthen froze.It was a black bunny suit. With fishnet stockings.Daniel stared at it. Then at Celeste.Celeste beamed. "Put it on."Mark fell over laughing. Ana was in literal tears. Liz had to grip the wall for support.Daniel''s hands shook. "This. Is. Too. Far."Celeste tilted her head, completely unbothered. "No helmet, then?"Daniel glared at her. "I will burn your mansion down."Celeste grinned. "Not before you wear the suit."Liz was barely breathing. "Daniel, please. I need to see this."Ana nodded eagerly. "Take one for the team, man."Mark was still gasping for air from laughter. "We should take pictures."Daniel tossed the bunny suit aside and stormed toward the kitchen. "I''m making breakfast and that''s IT."Celeste smirked. "You sure? It would really suit you."Daniel slammed a cabinet open. "I am not your bunny."Mark chuckled. "You sure? ''Bunny Boy Daniel'' has a nice ring to it."Daniel turned, grabbed a spatula, and pointed it at them."One more word, and someone''s getting beaten with this."Celeste grinned. "Oh? A violent pet? Maybe I should get a leash."Daniel faceplanted into the counter.Liz high-fived Celeste. Ana tried¡ªand failed¡ªto contain her laughter.Mark clapped his hands. "Alright, alright. Let''s not kill Daniel before he makes breakfast."Daniel grumbled under his breath, but started cooking anyway.Celeste leaned back, satisfied. "Don''t worry, Danny. We still have a full day of fun ahead."Daniel wanted to die.


    Breakfast was supposed to be a peaceful moment. Supposed to be. But with Celeste in charge, Daniel''s misery was just getting started.


    As he served the food, Celeste deliberately tapped her fork on the plate.


    "Too slow, pet."


    Daniel twitched. "I''m literally serving the food right now."


    Celeste smirked. "Faster next time."


    Ana grinned. "This is better than TV."


    Liz casually sipped her coffee. "I could watch this all day."


    Mark chuckled. "We will be watching this all day."


    Daniel growled under his breath. He slapped a plate of eggs down in front of Celeste, but before he could retreat, she snapped her fingers.


    "Ah, ah. I need something."


    Daniel gritted his teeth. "What. Now."


    Celeste grinned. "I want my juice¡­" She paused dramatically. "¡­fed to me."


    Mark choked on his food. Ana''s head hit the table from laughing. Liz actually spit out her coffee.


    Daniel froze.


    His soul left his body.


    "¡­You''re joking."


    Celeste tilted her head. "Do I look like I''m joking?"


    Daniel clenched his fists. Fifteen thousand credits. The helmet. The game. It was all riding on this.


    He shakily picked up the glass of orange juice.


    Celeste smirked.


    He brought it closer.


    Mark held his breath. Ana looked ready to explode.


    Then, with gritted teeth and dead eyes, Daniel tipped the glass toward Celeste''s lips.


    Celeste took a slow sip¡ªthen licked her lips dramatically. "Mmm. Delicious."


    Daniel wanted to SCREAM.


    Liz actually had to leave the room to stop herself from choking on laughter. Ana had collapsed onto the couch, wheezing. Mark was wiping tears away.


    Daniel set the glass down and turned to walk away.


    Celeste snapped her fingers.


    "¡­What now?" he gritted out.


    Celeste smiled sweetly. "You forgot to say ''You''re welcome, Mistress Celeste.''"


    Daniel''s eye twitched violently.


    Mark lost it. He fell out of his chair. Ana clutched her stomach, shaking. Liz banged on the wall, howling.


    Daniel inhaled deeply.


    He exhaled.


    Then, in the most dead, emotionless voice possible¡ª


    "¡­You''re welcome, Mistress Celeste."


    Celeste patted his head. "Good pet."


    Daniel screamed internally.


    Daniel''s Breaking Point


    After breakfast, Daniel thought¡ªhoped¡ªhis suffering was over.


    He was wrong.


    Celeste lounged on the couch, stretching lazily. "Alright, pet. Time for your next task."


    Daniel''s soul was already halfway to the afterlife. "¡­What now?"


    Celeste smirked. "Massage my shoulders."


    Mark nearly fell off his chair again. Ana was barely breathing. Liz wiped a tear away.


    Daniel''s hands shook. "This isn''t servitude. This is torture."


    Celeste tilted her head innocently. "Did you say something, pet?"


    Daniel gritted his teeth. "No."


    With the anger of a thousand suns, he stomped over and placed his hands on Celeste''s shoulders.


    Celeste sighed dramatically. "Harder."


    Daniel''s fingers twitched. Oh, how badly he wanted to strangle her instead.


    "Gentler," she murmured a second later.


    Daniel fought every violent urge in his body.


    Liz leaned over to Ana. "He''s dying inside."


    Ana nodded solemnly. "We''re witnessing history."


    Mark sipped his coffee, enjoying every second.


    Then, Celeste spoke the final words that broke him.


    "I want my feet done next."


    Daniel SNAPPED.


    "THAT''S IT!" he threw his hands up.


    Celeste laughed as she dodged away.


    "FIFTEEN THOUSAND CREDITS ISN''T WORTH THIS!" Daniel raged. "I REFUSE TO LIVE LIKE THIS!"


    Mark, Ana, and Liz collapsed into laughter.


    Celeste pouted playfully. "Aww, is my pet tired already?"


    Daniel pointed a trembling finger at her. "You. Are. The. Devil."


    Celeste winked. "And you''re still my pet for another eight hours."


    Daniel screamed into a pillow.


    Daniel''s Final Hours of Suffering


    Daniel had given up. Completely. His soul had been crushed. His pride shattered. He had accepted his fate.


    Eight more hours. Just eight more hours.


    Celeste rested her feet on his lap as she scrolled through her phone. "Be a dear and bring me some snacks."


    Daniel mechanically stood up, walked to the kitchen, and returned with a bag of chips. No complaints. No sarcasm. Just pure, dead inside obedience.


    Mark stared. "He''s¡­ broken."


    Ana waved a hand in front of Daniel''s face. "Are you still in there, buddy?"


    Daniel blinked slowly. "¡­Kill me."


    Liz chuckled. "Nope. You still have time left."


    Celeste popped a chip into her mouth, grinning. "See? He''s finally learning."


    Mark leaned back. "This is actually terrifying. I miss when he fought back."


    Ana nodded. "This is like watching a proud warrior lose his will to live."


    Liz smirked. "Nah. This is entertainment."


    Celeste stretched. "You know what? I''m feeling generous."


    Daniel''s hollow gaze turned to her.


    "For the last three hours, you only have one job." She smiled wickedly. "Follow me around and do everything I say."


    Mark spit out his drink. Ana fell off the couch. Liz was grinning like a demon.


    Daniel just stared. "¡­I hate you."


    Celeste beamed. "You''ll love me by the end of the day."


    Daniel closed his eyes and accepted his fate.


    Three Hours Left.


    For three straight hours, Celeste dragged Daniel through every ridiculous errand she could think of.


    Shopping. She made him carry all the bags. Even the ones that were clearly unnecessary.


    Coffee run. She made him order for her. "Ask for extra sugar and tell them it''s for ''the love of your life.''"


    Random park stop. She forced him to push her on a swing.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz followed the entire time¡ªrecording everything.


    At the park, Mark whispered to Ana. "I''m actually impressed. She''s too powerful."


    Ana nodded. "Daniel is gonna need therapy after this."


    Liz sipped her coffee. "Worth it."


    The Final Hour.


    Celeste and Daniel returned to the mansion.


    Celeste stretched. "Well, pet, you did well. I''d say you earned your freedom."


    Daniel collapsed onto the floor. "I. Am. Free."


    Mark checked his watch. "Exactly on the hour, too. Celeste, you really milked every second."


    Celeste grinned. "Of course. What kind of evil queen would I be if I didn''t?"


    Daniel lay motionless on the floor, staring at the ceiling, soul completely drained. "Never again."


    Ana smirked. "Oh, come on. You survived."


    Liz chuckled. "Barely."


    Mark leaned over him. "Hey, at least you get your helmet and the credits."


    Daniel groaned. "Not worth it."


    Celeste crouched next to him, poking his cheek. "Oh, but D


    anny, you looked so cute in that bunny suit."


    Daniel twitched. "I will never recover from this."


    Celeste patted his head. "Good pet."


    Daniel let out the most broken, exhausted sigh of his life.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz burst into laughter.


    And thus, Daniel''s Ultimate Humiliation came to an end¡ªscarring him for life.

 Chapter 11 the revenge failed

    Daniel''s Revenge


    Daniel sat in the corner, sipping his drink with dead, hollow eyes. His body may have survived, but his dignity had not.


    Celeste, lounging on the couch like a queen, stretched lazily. "Well, that was fun. I should do this more often."


    Mark, Ana, and Liz exchanged amused glances.


    Daniel, however, slowly turned to look at her.


    A dangerous glint sparked in his eyes.


    "No." His voice was eerily calm. "No, you will not."


    Celeste smirked. "Oh? And how exactly do you plan to stop me, pet?"


    Daniel set his drink down.


    He stood up.


    And then, with the slow precision of a man who had been pushed too far¡ªhe smiled.


    Mark immediately backed away. "Oh no."


    Ana''s grin faltered. "Wait¡ª"


    Liz narrowed her eyes. "That''s¡­ not normal."


    Celeste raised an eyebrow. "What are you up to?"


    Daniel clasped his hands behind his back. "Oh, nothing."


    Celeste frowned.


    Daniel''s smile widened.


    "You see, Celeste," he said sweetly, "you may have won today¡­ but tomorrow? Tomorrow is a new day."


    Ana''s eyes widened. "Oh god."


    Mark grabbed his phone. "I need to record this."


    Liz leaned forward. "Wait, wait, let him cook."


    Celeste, for the first time all day, looked wary. "¡­What are you planning?"


    Daniel chuckled. A slow, dark laugh.


    "Oh, Celeste," he said, stepping closer.


    She instinctively leaned back.


    "You humiliated me today." His voice dripped with honeyed malice. "But you forgot something very, very important."


    Celeste narrowed her eyes. "And what''s that?"


    Daniel grinned.


    "I. Hold. Grudges."


    Dead silence.


    Mark whispered, "Oh, this is gonna be good."


    Ana''s mouth hung open. "He''s serious."


    Liz shivered. "Why is this kind of hot?"


    Celeste, to her credit, did not back down. She smirked, tilting her head. "Alright, pet. Let''s see what you''ve got."


    Daniel''s grin never wavered.


    "Oh, you''ll see, Mistress Celeste." He said her name mockingly, his voice practically purring.


    Celeste''s smirk faltered.


    Mark gasped. "Wait. Did he just¡ª"


    Ana grabbed Liz''s arm. "He''s flipping the script."


    Liz inhaled sharply. "Masterclass behavior."


    Celeste squinted at him. "You wouldn''t dare."


    Daniel leaned down, voice low and ominous.


    The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    "Watch me."


    And just like that, the war had begun.


    Celeste''s Turn to Suffer


    The next morning, Celeste awoke to an eerie silence.


    Too silent.


    She sat up, stretching, only to find something very wrong.


    Her room¡­ was spotless.


    Her shoes? Perfectly lined up.


    Her desk? Organized to military precision.


    Her wardrobe? Neatly arranged, color-coded, and¡ª


    She gasped. "No."


    Throwing open the closet doors, her worst fears were confirmed.


    Every. Single. Black. Outfit. Was gone.


    In their place?


    Pastels.


    Celeste''s eye twitched. Pink. Soft blues. Yellows. A floral sundress.


    A single note sat on the shelf.


    She picked it up with shaking hands.


    "Good morning, Mistress Celeste. Enjoy your new wardrobe. With love, Daniel. ?"


    Her fists clenched. "That little¡ª"


    Her bedroom door swung open.


    Daniel stood there, smiling.


    "Good morning, Celeste," he greeted cheerfully.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz peeked from behind him, barely containing their excitement.


    Celeste exhaled slowly. "Alright, pet. What did you do?"


    Daniel beamed. "I made some adjustments."


    Celeste crossed her arms. "Where. Are. My. Clothes?"


    Daniel shrugged innocently. "Oh, don''t worry. They''re safe."


    Celeste narrowed her eyes. "Where?"


    Daniel''s smirk turned devious.


    "I donated them."


    Silence.


    Dead. Deafening. Silence.


    Mark covered his mouth. Ana''s eyes widened in pure horror. Liz gasped.


    Celeste¡­ did not move.


    Her eye twitched. "You. Did not."


    Daniel smiled wider. "Oh, but I did."


    Mark leaned over to Ana. "We might need to run."


    Ana whispered, "He''s dead."


    Liz whispered back, "I''ve never respected him more."


    Celeste took a slow, deep breath.


    "¡­You really think this is funny?"


    Daniel tilted his head. "I think it''s hilarious."


    Celeste lunged.


    Daniel dodged, laughing.


    Mark and Ana bolted down the hall. Liz cackled as she recorded everything.


    "DANIEL, YOU LITTLE¡ª" Celeste shouted, chasing after him.


    Daniel''s voice echoed back, "PAYBACK''S A BITCH, ISN''T IT?"


    And thus, the war had truly begun.


    The War Escalates


    Celeste stormed through the mansion, hunting Daniel down.


    Meanwhile, Daniel had barricaded himself in the living room, leaning casually against the couch with a smug grin.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz stood at a safe distance, ready to witness the carnage.


    Celeste kicked the door open.


    "Alright, you little menace," she growled. "You have ten seconds to return my clothes before I destroy you."


    Daniel chuckled. "Oh, Celeste, Celeste, Celeste." He tsked, shaking his head. "You don''t negotiate from a position of weakness."


    Celeste''s eye twitched. "Weakness?"


    Daniel spread his arms wide. "You''re wearing a pastel pink sweater right now."


    Celeste froze.


    She looked down.


    Pastel pink.


    Fluffy.


    It even had a little heart on it.


    Mark gasped. "He got her."


    Ana whispered. "He broke her."


    Liz grabbed Ana''s arm. "Are we sure Daniel''s the same man from yesterday? This is insane."


    Celeste slowly looked back up, her expression dark.


    Daniel just smiled.


    "You look adorable," he said sweetly.


    Mark bit his fist to keep from laughing. Ana turned away, her shoulders shaking. Liz was gripping the wall for support.


    Celeste inhaled sharply.


    "¡­Alright. That''s it."


    Daniel blinked. "Huh?"


    Celeste cracked her knuckles. "You wanted war, Daniel?"


    Daniel''s smile finally faltered.


    Celeste grinned.


    "Then war it is."


    The Counterattack


    Fifteen minutes later, Daniel sat on the couch, stunned.


    Because Celeste had just annihilated him.


    His carefully planned revenge? Useless.


    His smug confidence? Gone.


    Because Celeste?


    Celeste had pulled out the ultimate weapon.


    "Say it," she commanded.


    Daniel gritted his teeth.


    "Say. It."


    Daniel exhaled through his nose.


    Then, with dead, emotionless eyes¡ª


    "¡­I''m Celeste''s good little bunny."


    Mark hit the floor, wheezing. Ana screamed. Liz had to leave the room, tears streaming down her face.


    Celeste patted his head. "Good pet."


    Daniel twitched violently.


    The war had only just begun.


    Daniel''s Ultimate Revenge


    Daniel sat in silence, staring at the floor. His pride? Gone. His dignity? Shattered. His will to live? Barely hanging on.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz were still dying of laughter in the background.


    Celeste, sitting across from him, sipped her tea victoriously.


    "So," she said, tapping a finger on her cup. "Are we done, or do you want to keep pushing your luck?"


    Daniel didn''t answer.


    Celeste smirked. "That''s what I thought."


    Liz wiped a tear from her eye. "I don''t think I''ve ever seen Daniel this defeated."


    Mark nodded. "He went too far and got outplayed."


    Ana tilted her head. "Nah. He''s planning something."


    At those words, Celeste glanced at Daniel. His shoulders were tense. His hands were clenched into fists.


    And then¡ª


    He started laughing.


    A slow, eerie chuckle that sent a shiver down their spines.


    Celeste narrowed her eyes. "What¡­ are you planning?"


    Daniel stood up, cracking his neck. Then he smiled.


    And Celeste finally felt fear.


    One Hour Later¡­


    Celeste stormed into the living room, red-faced, fuming, and absolutely furious.


    Daniel? He was on the floor, wheezing.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz? Collapsed from laughter.


    Because right now, on every single social media platform they had¡ª


    Celeste''s new profile picture was a selfie of her¡­ in a bunny hoodie.


    With pink cat ears.


    And the caption?


    "I am Daniel''s cute little bunny. ?"


    Celeste lunged.


    Daniel ran.


    "DANIEL, YOU''RE DEAD."


    "WORTH IT!"


    Mark gasped for air. Ana rolled off the couch. Liz was crying.


    The war had just reached nuclear levels.


    Total War


    Daniel sprinted for his life.


    Celeste was right behind him, fury in her eyes, murder in her heart.


    "GET BACK HERE, YOU MENACE!"


    Daniel vaulted over the couch. "Nope!"


    Celeste grabbed a pillow and launched it at his head.


    Direct hit.


    Daniel stumbled but kept running, laughing like a lunatic.


    Meanwhile, Mark, Ana, and Liz were absolutely losing it.


    Mark clutched his stomach. "He actually did it! He actually posted it!"


    Ana wiped a tear away. "This is the greatest day of my life."


    Liz, still breathless, shook her head. "He''s gonna die, but honestly? He died a legend."


    Daniel dove into the kitchen, ducking behind the counter.


    Celeste stormed in after him.


    "I swear to EVERYTHING, Daniel," she hissed, rolling up her sleeves. "You have exactly five seconds to delete that post before I make sure you never know peace again."


    Daniel peeked up from behind the counter. "Oh? You mean more suffering than what I already endured yesterday?"


    Celeste''s eye twitched.


    "¡­Yes."


    Daniel gulped.


    Then he bolted again.


    Celeste grabbed a frying pan and chucked it.


    CLANG.


    Daniel barely dodged it. "ARE YOU INSANE?!"


    "You brought this upon yourself!"


    The Great Chase


    For the next ten minutes, the mansion turned into an absolute war zone.


    Daniel locked himself in the bathroom? Celeste picked the lock.


    Daniel hid under the table? Celeste flipped it over.


    Daniel tried to escape through the window? Celeste dragged him back in.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz were dying.


    Mark wheezed. "This is like watching an unstoppable force meet an immovable idiot."


    Ana nodded. "And the idiot''s losing."


    Liz snickered. "I''m just waiting for Daniel to beg for mercy."


    Then¡ª


    Celeste caught him.


    Daniel''s Reckoning


    Daniel thrashed uselessly. "WAIT, WAIT, LET''S TALK ABOUT THIS¡ª"


    Celeste threw him onto the couch, loomed over him, and cracked her knuckles.


    Daniel gulped.


    Celeste smiled sweetly. Too sweetly. "You like posting things, huh?"


    Daniel paled. "Celeste¡ª"


    Celeste pulled out her phone. "Cool. Then let''s post something else."


    Daniel froze.


    Mark gasped. "Oh. Oh no."


    Ana covered her mouth. "She wouldn''t¡ª"


    Liz''s grin widened. "She absolutely would."


    Celeste snapped a picture of Daniel''s panicked face.


    Then she tapped her screen.


    And posted.


    Daniel scrambled for his phone. "WHAT DID YOU¡ª"


    Then he saw it.


    Celeste Asterion @CelestialQueen


    "Good morning, everyone! Just reminding you all that Daniel is my cute little bunny. ?"


    Attached: A picture of Daniel looking horrified.


    The Aftermath


    Daniel screamed into a pillow.


    Mark, Ana, and Liz? Gone. Absolutely gone.


    Celeste? Grinning like a devil.


    She patted Daniel''s head. "Checkmate."


    Daniel collapsed.


    He had lost the war.

 Chapter 12 the launch

    One Hour Before the Launch of Mortal Online


    Celeste sat on the couch, controller in hand, glaring at the clock. One hour. Just one more hour before she could finally escape into Mortal Online, her soon-to-be kingdom.


    Mark lounged across from her, sipping soda. "Man, I can''t wait to get in there and just¡ª"


    "Die repeatedly?" Ana cut in.


    Mark shrugged. "Yeah, probably."


    Liz scrolled through her phone. "I''m placing bets now. Who gets wiped first: Mark or Daniel?"


    "Hey!" Mark protested.


    "Daniel," Ana said without hesitation. "He''s gonna do something dumb within the first five minutes."


    Right on cue, Daniel strolled into the room, a smug grin plastered on his face. "Ladies," he purred, sliding onto the couch between Ana and Liz. "What''s a gorgeous pair like you doing in a place like this?"


    Ana snorted. "Waiting for Mortal Online."


    Liz didn''t even look up. "Ignoring you."


    Daniel placed a hand over his heart. "You wound me."


    "Not yet," Celeste muttered.


    Daniel, undeterred, leaned in closer. "You know, Liz, I''ve always admired your¡ª"


    WHACK.


    Celeste''s fist met the back of his head.


    "OW! WHAT THE HELL, WOMAN?!" Daniel clutched his head, glaring at her.


    Celeste, unfazed, went back to checking her PC setup. "Stop flirting before I throw you out the window."


    Ana burst out laughing. Mark nearly spit out his drink. Liz smirked.


    Daniel huffed. "You''re just mad because you can''t resist my¡ª"


    Celeste reached for the closest object¡ªa pillow this time¡ªand launched it at his face.


    THWAP.


    Daniel fell off the couch.


    Liz grinned. "You walked right into that."


    Ana wiped away tears. "This is the greatest pre-launch entertainment ever."


    Mark checked the time. "Forty-five minutes left. You think the servers will crash?"


    Celeste''s eye twitched. "If they do, I will riot."


    Daniel groaned from the floor. "If they do, I''m blaming Celeste''s bad karma."


    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Another pillow to the face.


    And so, the countdown to Mortal Online continued¡ªwith chaos, violence, and Daniel being repeatedly smacked.


    30 Minutes Before Launch ¨C The Chaos Intensifies


    Celeste sat on the edge of her seat, fingers tapping impatiently on the keyboard. The Mortal Online launcher was open, the servers still locked, the countdown taunting her.


    Thirty more minutes.


    Too long.


    Across the room, Mark had fully reclined on the couch, phone in hand. "So, I found a guide on the best starter builds. Apparently, magic is kinda broken if you¡ª"


    "Nope." Celeste cut him off. "I already planned my build weeks ago."


    Mark blinked. "You didn''t even let me finish."


    "I don''t need to. I know."


    Ana smirked. "Of course she does. She''s probably got a spreadsheet."


    Celeste didn''t respond.


    Liz''s eyes narrowed. "¡­Do you actually have a spreadsheet?"


    Celeste remained silent.


    Mark sat up. "You do."


    Celeste sipped her drink. "And what of it?"


    Liz shook her head. "Jesus."


    Meanwhile, Daniel¡ªwho had finally recovered from his earlier beatings¡ªwas sprawled across the armrest of the couch, lazily spinning a controller in his hand. He was far too relaxed for someone about to dive into an MMORPG with Celeste.


    Which meant one thing.


    He was planning something.


    Celeste narrowed her eyes at him. "Alright, Daniel. What''s your plan?"


    Daniel gave her an innocent look. "Plan? Oh, Celeste, darling, whatever do you mean?"


    WHACK.


    This time, she threw her mousepad at him.


    "OW¡ªWHY?!"


    "Because you''re scheming," Celeste said flatly.


    Daniel rubbed his forehead, pouting. "Why do you always assume the worst of me?"


    Liz raised an eyebrow. "Because the worst of you is always accurate."


    Ana nodded. "That''s actually a fair point."


    Daniel gasped. "I am offended. I''m a gentleman."


    Celeste cracked her knuckles. "Say that again with a straight face."


    Daniel smirked. "I''m a gent¡ª"


    WHACK.


    A cushion this time.


    Mark checked the time. "Twenty minutes left."


    Liz stretched. "So¡­ bets on who''s gonna rage first?"


    "Celeste," Ana said instantly.


    Mark hummed. "Nah, I think it''s gonna be Daniel. He''s gonna do something dumb, Celeste is gonna kill him, and then he''s gonna rage."


    Daniel scoffed. "Please. I''m untouchable."


    Celeste smirked. "You think you''re untouchable."


    Daniel opened his mouth to retort¡ª


    DING!


    A notification popped up on the screen.


    [Servers will open in 15 minutes.]


    Silence.


    Then¡ª


    "OH, IT''S TIME!" Ana practically vibrated with excitement.


    Mark grinned. "Hell yeah."


    Liz smirked. "This is gonna be a disaster."


    Celeste cracked her fingers, a dangerous gleam in her eyes. "Finally."


    Daniel leaned back, arms crossed. "Alright, ladies and gentlemen, let''s see who lasts the longest before breaking."


    Ana snickered. "Oh, that''s easy. Celeste."


    Liz smirked. "Yeah. She won''t break. She''ll just break us."


    Daniel shot Celeste a cocky grin. "Oh, don''t worry. I''ll make sure to personally make your gaming experience interesting."


    Celeste''s smile was pure murder.


    "Oh, Daniel," she said sweetly. "I dare you."


    Daniel''s grin widened. "Challenge accepted."


    And thus, the war was about to spill into Mortal Online.


    10 Minutes Before Launch ¨C The Calm Before the Storm


    The air in the mansion was thick with tension. Not the bad kind¡ªno, this was the kind that came before absolute chaos.


    Celeste sat at her setup, triple monitors glowing ominously as she leaned forward in her chair, fingers hovering over her keyboard. Her eyes never left the countdown timer.


    Daniel, meanwhile, had kicked his feet up onto the coffee table, stretching leisurely. "So, Celeste, have you decided on a guild yet, or are we just going to wing it?"


    Celeste scoffed. "Wing it? Do you think I would leave something this important to chance?"


    Liz chuckled. "She definitely has a guild already lined up."


    Ana smirked. "Probably sent in an application weeks ago."


    Celeste took a sip of her drink. "It wasn''t weeks. It was a month ago."


    Mark whistled. "Of course it was."


    Daniel tilted his head. "Lemme guess¡ªthe most hardcore PvP guild you could find?"


    Celeste''s smirk was all the confirmation they needed.


    Mark groaned. "Well, I hope you enjoy your hardcore life because I''m gonna be chilling."


    Ana snorted. "Yeah, see, that''s your problem. Chilling in Mortal Online is how you get murdered."


    Liz leaned back. "Not us though. Celeste will make sure we don''t die. Right?"


    Celeste didn''t respond immediately.


    Liz frowned. "¡­Right?"


    Celeste continued watching the countdown.


    "¡­Celeste?"


    Still no response.


    Ana crossed her arms. "Celeste."


    Celeste exhaled dramatically. "I will try to keep you alive."


    Daniel smirked. "Translation: If you fall behind, she''s leaving you to die."


    Celeste shrugged. "I''ll loot your corpse at least."


    Mark groaned. "I''m not even in the game yet, and I already feel betrayed."


    [5 minutes until launch.]


    The tension rose.


    Ana vibrated in her chair. "Oh my god, I need this game to start NOW."


    Liz smirked. "You just wanna start fights, don''t you?"


    Ana grinned. "Maybe."


    Daniel draped an arm over the back of the couch, eyes twinkling. "Well, if we''re talking fights, maybe I should duel Celeste first."


    Celeste barely glanced at him. "You''re asking to be humiliated immediately?"


    Daniel flashed his signature cocky grin. "Oh, darling, I''d love for you to humiliate me."


    WHACK.


    Celeste didn''t even look as she grabbed a book and threw it at him.


    Daniel yelped. "WHY DO YOU ALWAYS HAVE SOMETHING TO THROW?!"


    Liz covered her mouth, trying not to laugh. "At this point, you should just expect it."


    Mark checked the time. "Three minutes left."


    Ana grinned. "Ohhh, we''re so close."


    Daniel, rubbing his forehead, grinned. "So, last predictions: Who''s gonna get rage-kicked from a party first?"


    Mark smirked. "You."


    Ana nodded. "Definitely you."


    Liz snorted. "Without a doubt."


    Celeste didn''t even hesitate. "Absolutely you."


    Daniel gasped, clutching his chest. "I am so unappreciated in this household."


    Celeste cracked her knuckles. "Don''t worry, pet. I''ll show you how much I appreciate you¡­ in the game."


    Daniel grinned. "Looking forward to it

 Chapter 13 RAVEN

    Mark sighed, shaking his head as he picked up his VIRTUAL helmet. Celeste and Daniel were still at it, voices rising over some ridiculous argument about¡ªwhat was it this time? Who got the best starting gear? Who had the best reflexes? Something equally dumb.


    Ana was hyping them up, of course, throwing in exaggerated gasps and dramatic commentary. Liz sat on the couch, smirking as she sipped her soda, clearly enjoying the chaos.


    Mark, on the other hand, was done waiting. The game was starting. He placed the VIRTUAL helmet on his head, the interface flickering to life.


    "Y''all can keep fighting," he muttered, lying back. "I''m logging in."


    And just like that, the world around him faded, replaced by the endless possibilities of Mortal Online.


    As Mark disappeared into Mortal Online, the room fell silent for a moment. Then, Ana gasped dramatically.


    "Oh no! He went in first! He''s gonna steal all the good starter quests!"


    Daniel''s eyes widened. "Oh, hell no."


    Without another word, he grabbed his VIRTUAL helmet and shoved it on. Celeste, not about to be left behind, followed immediately.


    Liz stretched lazily. "Well, if they''re all going in, I might as well." She placed her helmet on, the sarcasm in her voice not hiding her excitement.


    Ana was the last, grinning as she slid her helmet on. "Here we go!"


    One by one, their bodies went still as their minds dove into the game. The real world faded away¡ªMortal Online had begun.


    Mark''s Rebirth ¨C The Angel''s Question


    Darkness. Cold, endless darkness.


    Then¡ªlight. A searing, blinding radiance tore through the void, pulling Mark back into existence. He gasped, his body jolting as if waking from a long-forgotten dream.


    When his vision cleared, he stood in the center of a vast celestial hall. Towering white walls stretched toward an endless golden sky, glowing with divine energy. Stained-glass windows cast colorful patterns across the marble floor, depicting legendary battles of warriors, assassins, and mages.


    A flutter of wings echoed through the chamber. A being of light descended gracefully before him¡ªan angel clad in silver armor, its massive wings folding behind its back. Piercing blue eyes studied him with an unreadable expression.


    "Welcome, lost soul," the angel spoke, its voice both powerful and serene. "You have returned to this world. But before your journey begins, you must choose the path you will walk."


    A glowing interface appeared before him:


    ---


    [Select Your Class]


    1. Assassin ¨C The Shadow''s Fang


    "Strike first, strike last. The world belongs to those unseen."


    High Agility and Dexterity


    Stealth-based attacks


    Deadly critical strikes


    (Advanced Subclasses ¨C Locked, Unlockable via Special Quests)


    Phantom Dagger ¨C Masters of dual-wielding, striking unseen.


    Nightblade ¨C Uses shadow magic to enhance speed and deception.


    Soul Reaper ¨C Assassin who steals life force with each kill.


    ---


    2. Warlord ¨C The Battlefield King


    "To lead is to conquer. To conquer is to rule."


    High Strength and Endurance


    Heavy armor and two-handed weapons


    Leadership abilities in battle


    (Advanced Subclasses ¨C Locked, Unlockable via Special Quests)


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    Berserker ¨C Trades defense for unstoppable offense.


    Champion ¨C A defensive warrior who can command NPC troops.


    Doombringer ¨C Infuses attacks with dark energy for massive destruction.


    ---


    3. Arcanist ¨C The Scholar of the Unknown


    "Magic is limitless. It is the wielder who defines its purpose."


    High Intelligence and Mana


    Masters multiple schools of magic


    Complex spell-crafting system


    (Advanced Subclasses ¨C Locked, Unlockable via Special Quests)


    Elementalist ¨C Controls fire, ice, wind, and earth at will.


    Chronomancer ¨C Manipulates time, slowing enemies and speeding up allies.


    Voidwalker ¨C Draws power from forbidden magic, risking sanity for unmatched strength.


    ---


    4. Trickster ¨C The Master of Deception


    "Why fight when you can trick your enemies into fighting for you?"


    Illusions, mind control, and escape abilities


    High Charisma and Luck


    Specializes in confusing and controlling foes


    (Advanced Subclasses ¨C Locked, Unlockable via Special Quests)


    Shadow Puppeteer ¨C Manipulates enemies like marionettes.


    Fate Gambler ¨C Uses random chance-based attacks with massive payoffs.


    Jester King ¨C Turns battle into unpredictable chaos.


    ---


    5. Shadow Stalker ¨C The Silent Archer


    "A single arrow in the dark ends wars before they begin."


    Precision-based ranged attacks


    High Dexterity and Perception


    Silent movement and tracking skills


    (Advanced Subclasses ¨C Locked, Unlockable via Special Quests)


    Ghost Sniper ¨C Can fire arrows from impossible distances.


    Venom Ranger ¨C Uses poisoned arrows and traps to cripple foes.


    Storm Archer ¨C Calls down lightning with each shot.


    ---


    Mark''s eyes scanned the options. Each path promised power, but only one truly suited him.


    He smirked. "I choose the Assassin."


    The angel nodded, raising a hand. A cold energy surged through Mark''s body¡ªhis muscles became lighter, his senses sharper. A pair of daggers materialized at his sides, perfectly balanced for speed and lethality.


    [You have chosen the Assassin class. Speed, stealth, and deadly precision are your greatest weapons.]


    The angel''s gaze deepened. "The path you walk is dangerous, but greater power awaits those who seek it. Your true potential is yet to be discovered."


    A list of [Advanced Subclasses ¨C Locked] briefly flashed before his eyes before vanishing.


    Mark exhaled, excitement building in his chest. He wasn''t just here to play¡ªhe was here to uncover every secret this world had to offer.


    With a deep breath, he stepped forward as the grand golden doors of the castle creaked open, revealing the vast unknown beyond.


    His second life had begun.


    Mark''s Rebirth ¨C The Name and the Face of an Assassin


    The golden doors remained shut as the angel extended a glowing hand toward Mark. A new interface materialized before him, shimmering with ethereal light.


    [Character Customization]


    "The world must know you by name and form," the angel said, its voice steady. "Decide what face you will show, and the name by which you will be remembered."


    Mark exhaled. He had expected this. No MMO let you jump in without designing your character first.


    [Appearance Customization]


    A 3D projection of his character floated before him¡ªcurrently a blank, generic human model. He flicked through the customization settings, smirking at the ridiculous options.


    Hair: Long, short, spiky, shaved¡­ Nah, let''s keep it simple. He selected messy black hair, slightly unkempt but sharp enough to match an assassin.


    Eyes: A variety of colors¡ªnormal, glowing, slitted pupils¡­ Tempting. He settled on deep crimson¡ªintense and striking.


    Skin: A natural tone, slightly tanned. He didn''t want to stand out too much in the shadows.


    Physique: Slim but toned. An assassin wasn''t meant to be bulky. Agility over brute force.


    Satisfied, he nodded.


    The angel''s voice cut through the silence. "Now, choose the name that shall mark your legend."


    A new prompt appeared:


    [Enter Character Name]


    Mark paused. His real name wasn''t an option¡ªtoo boring. He needed something sharp, something with weight. Something that fit an assassin reborn into a world of gods and monsters.


    His fingers hovered over the glowing keyboard before he typed:


    RAVEN


    The system chimed in acknowledgment.


    [Name Accepted: Raven]


    The angel nodded. "Raven, the path of the Assassin is yours to walk. May your name be whispered in fear and respect."


    The grand golden doors creaked open, revealing a vast world beyond¡ªa sprawling kingdom of towering cities, endless forests, and distant mountains shrouded in mist.


    Mark¡ªno, Raven¡ªgrinned.


    His legend was about to begin.


    Mark''s Rebirth ¨C A World of Kingdoms and Empires


    The angel did not move aside. Instead, it raised a hand, and before Raven, a massive glowing globe appeared, slowly rotating in the air. The continents shimmered, marked with different empires and kingdoms, each pulsating with distinct auras.


    "This world is vast," the angel spoke. "It is shaped by war, alliances, and ambition. You must choose your home wisely."


    The globe zoomed in, breaking into territories.


    ---


    [Select Your Kingdom]


    1. Solaris Empire ¨C The Land of Divine Order


    "Where the sun never sets, and the righteous rule."


    A vast empire ruled by an immortal emperor, blessed by the gods.


    Home to noble knights, disciplined warriors, and holy mages.


    Cities of marble and gold, but strict laws govern all.


    Major Cities:


    Imperius ¨C The imperial capital, home to the Emperor''s court.


    Dawnspire ¨C A city of scholars and paladins.


    Valkenhold ¨C A fortified stronghold on the empire''s northern border.


    ---


    2. Drakos Dominion ¨C The Land of Fire and Blood


    "Only the strong deserve to rule."


    A brutal warrior kingdom where might is law.


    Ruled by warring clans, each vying for supremacy.


    Home to dragon-worshippers and berserkers.


    Major Cities:


    Drakgor Keep ¨C The throne of the Dragon King.


    Skullhaven ¨C A fortress where mercenaries and gladiators train.


    Emberfall ¨C A city built atop a dormant volcano.


    ---


    3. Eldoria ¨C The Land of Ancient Magic


    "The arcane is limitless, and so is our knowledge."


    A kingdom of mages, scholars, and hidden secrets.


    Floating cities, arcane towers, and libraries of forbidden knowledge.


    Dangerous magical beasts roam the land.


    Major Cities:


    Azrathal ¨C The city of archmages, home to the Grand Academy.


    Moonveil ¨C A mysterious city shrouded in eternal twilight.


    Runeshire ¨C A town where magical artifacts are crafted and sold.


    ---


    4. Darkwind Kingdom ¨C The Realm of Shadows


    "Gold, secrets, and death are the true rulers here."


    A land of assassins, thieves, and mercenaries.


    No central ruler¡ªpower shifts constantly.


    Dark alleys, underground markets, and hidden guilds.


    Major Cities:


    Nightshade Keep ¨C Headquarters of the Black Hand assassins.


    Shadowmere ¨C A mist-covered port city where smugglers thrive.


    Blue Whale City ¨C The largest trade hub, where anything can be bought or stolen.


    ---


    5. Free Cities of Valmere ¨C The Land of Anarchy


    "Laws are chains. Here, we are free."


    A collection of independent city-states, constantly in conflict.


    No kings, no rulers¡ªonly power and gold matter.


    Ideal for mercenaries, traders, and bounty hunters.


    Major Cities:


    Blackreach ¨C A pirate haven, home to the infamous Corsair King.


    Ironwall ¨C A fortress city controlled by warring mercenary factions.


    Gilded Bay ¨C A thriving trade city ruled by the wealthiest merchant families.


    ---


    Raven smirked. He already knew where he belonged.


    "Darkwind Kingdom."


    The globe shimmered, zooming in on the shadowed lands of Darkwind.


    The angel''s voice remained neutral. "Darkwind is a land of shifting alliances and silent daggers. Few survive without wit and cunning."


    Another selection screen appeared:


    [Select Your City]


    1. Nightshade Keep ¨C A fortress hidden in the mountains, home to the world''s deadliest assassins.


    2. Shadowmere ¨C A city of fog and whispers, where deals are made in the dark.


    3. Blue Whale City ¨C A massive trade hub, ruled by crime lords and mercenary factions.


    4. Ashen Hollow ¨C A ruined city, now home to exiles and outcasts.


    Raven''s eyes narrowed. Blue Whale City. A place where information flowed like water, and survival depended on wit and skill.


    He selected Blue Whale City.


    The angel''s wings spread slightly. "Then your fate is sealed."


    The globe vanished, and a pulse of energy surged through Raven''s body. Before he could react¡ª


    E


    verything went black.


    Then¡ª


    The scent of salt, smoke, and unwashed bodies hit him first. A chaotic chorus of shouting, laughter, and the clinking of gold filled the air.


    When Raven opened his eyes, he stood in the heart of Blue Whale City¡ªa sprawling, lawless metropolis where fortunes were made, and lives were lost with the flick of a blade.


    His second life had officially begun.

 Chapter 14 viles town

    Mark''s Rebirth ¨C The Shadows of Viles Town


    Raven''s vision blurred as the teleportation completed. A moment later, his feet hit solid ground, and the world around him stabilized.


    He stood in the heart of Viles Town, a district nestled deep within Blue Whale City. The air was thick with the stench of damp wood, smoke, and something rotten¡ªlikely a mix of spoiled ale and unwashed bodies. The cobbled streets were cracked, uneven, and littered with scraps of parchment and dried bloodstains.


    The buildings leaned dangerously, as if they might collapse at any moment. Most of them were taverns, black-market shops, or hideouts for mercenaries and cutthroats. Dim lanterns flickered weakly, casting long, jagged shadows that seemed to whisper secrets of past crimes.


    This was no place for the weak.


    A system notification flashed before him.


    [Welcome to Viles Town ¨C A lawless district where only the cunning survive.]


    [Main Questline Begins: Survive and Rise]


    [New Player Protection: 72 Hours Remaining]


    Raven''s eyes flickered with amusement.


    Three days. That''s how long the system would prevent hostile NPCs from outright attacking him. But protection didn''t mean immunity. If he provoked the wrong people, no system would save him.


    A loud thud pulled him from his thoughts.


    A burly NPC stepped forward, blocking his path. His face was scarred, his nose slightly crooked, and a malicious grin curled his lips.


    Above his head, a nameplate glowed faintly.


    [Thug Leader ¨C Garrett (LVL 3)]


    Behind him, several other thugs lingered in the shadows, watching. Their ragged leather armor and dull iron weapons marked them as low-level enforcers, but that didn''t mean they were harmless.


    Garrett cracked his knuckles. "Well, well¡­ Fresh meat just dropped in." His eyes glinted as he sized Raven up. "Haven''t seen you around before. What''s your name, newbie?"


    Raven didn''t answer. Instead, his gaze flicked to the edges of the street, noting the possible escape routes.


    This was the classic "Welcome Tax" scam¡ªnew players often got shaken down for their starting gold. A typical trap, but one Raven knew well.


    His fingers instinctively brushed the hilts of his daggers. He had two choices:


    1. Pay up and avoid conflict¡ªfor now.


    2. Show them why choosing him as a target was a mistake.


    Raven smirked.


    These idiots had no idea who they were messing with.


    Mark''s Rebirth ¨C The Test Begins


    Stolen story; please report.


    Raven stood still, his crimson eyes scanning the thugs surrounding him. The grimy streets of Viles Town were eerily silent, save for the occasional clink of metal and the low murmurs of onlookers.


    A few steps away, other new players lingered near the entrance of the town, their expressions a mix of relief and curiosity. They had already paid their "Welcome Tax", securing their passage. Now, they were waiting to see what Raven would do.


    Would he pay up, like they did?


    Or would he resist, and suffer the consequences?


    The lead thug, Garrett (LVL 3), crossed his arms, grinning. "I''ll be nice¡ªfive silver, and you can go. Otherwise¡­" He gestured around, his cronies shifting, readying their weapons.


    A trap.


    But Raven wasn''t some clueless new player.


    Ignoring Garrett, he opened his status window with a flick of his fingers. A faint blue screen materialized in front of him.


    ---


    [Status Window]


    Name: Raven


    Class: Assassin (Base Class)


    Level: 1


    Health: 100/100


    Mana: 50/50


    Stamina: 120/120


    Primary Stats:


    Strength: 5


    Agility: 10


    Dexterity: 9


    Intelligence: 5


    Endurance: 6


    Luck: 4


    ---


    [Skills]


    [Stealth] (Level 1) ¨C Proficiency: 0/100


    Effect: Temporarily reduces visibility when crouched.


    Current Duration: 5 seconds.


    Noise Reduction: 10%.


    Detection Chance: Medium (Easily spotted by experienced players and alert NPCs).


    Upgrade Requirement: Increase proficiency through use, performing silent eliminations, or acquiring a Stealth Skill Manual.


    [Backstab] (Level 1) ¨C Proficiency: 0/100


    Effect: Deals 150% bonus damage when attacking from behind.


    Critical Hit Chance: +5% when attacking unaware enemies.


    Silence Effect: No noise when attacking unaware NPCs or monsters below Level 5.


    Upgrade Requirement: Land successful backstabs or acquire a Backstab Mastery Scroll.


    [Dagger Mastery] (Level 1)


    Effect: Increases dagger attack speed and precision.


    Bonus Effect: +1% damage to all dagger-type attacks.


    Upgrade Requirement: Requires Dagger Mastery Book to advance.


    [Mastery] ¨C ??? (Locked)


    Effect: Unknown.


    Unlock Requirement: Special conditions must be met.


    ---


    [Equipment]


    Starter Daggers (Basic, +1 Agility)


    Light Leather Armor (Basic, +1 Dexterity)


    ---


    Raven smirked. His stats were weak, but that was expected for a Level 1. What mattered was how he used them.


    His Agility and Dexterity were higher than average, which meant one thing¡ªthese thugs wouldn''t even see him coming.


    The onlookers whispered amongst themselves.


    "He''s checking his stats?"


    "Guess he''s debating if he can win."


    "He should just pay. We did."


    Garrett''s grin widened. "I don''t have all day, kid." He took a step forward.


    Raven closed his status window and slowly lifted his gaze.


    His fingers tightened around the hilts of his daggers.


    Time to make an example out of them.


    The moment Raven closed his status window, he took a slow, measured breath. The thugs tightened their circle, their confidence unshaken. To them, he was just another fresh player¡ªtrapped, outnumbered, and with nowhere to run.


    Garrett cracked his knuckles. "Last chance, newbie. Pay up or¡ª"


    Too late.


    Raven moved first.


    Raven stood in the center of the encirclement, his mind racing. His crimson eyes flickered between the five thugs blocking his escape. They were bigger, stronger, and outnumbered him. Fighting them head-on? Suicide.


    But that didn''t mean he was helpless.


    He exhaled slowly, his hands lowering slightly¡ªnot to surrender, but to prepare.


    Garrett, the Level 3 thug leader, misread the motion as hesitation. He smirked, taking a step forward.


    "Finally getting smart? Just pay up, and maybe we won''t rough you up too bad."


    His voice was cocky, confident. He had done this routine dozens of times before. Newbies always panicked, hesitated, begged, or worse¡ªtried to fight and got humiliated.


    But Raven wasn''t a normal newbie.


    Instead of responding, Raven suddenly dropped into a crouch.


    The Split-Second Miscalculation


    The reaction was instant. The thugs instinctively tensed, expecting an attack. Their muscles twitched, their grips on their weapons tightened¡ª


    That was their mistake.


    They were ready to react to an attack, not a trick.


    And tricks were what Raven excelled at.


    The Execution


    His fingers scraped against the rough cobblestone, scooping up a handful of loose dirt, dust, and small gravel. The alley was filled with debris¡ªthe perfect weapon for an opening move.


    Without hesitation, he flicked his wrist upward.


    The cloud of dirt and gravel shot toward Garrett''s face like a miniature sandstorm.


    "Argh! What the¡ª?!"


    The thug leader''s voice cut off in a strangled yell as his head snapped back. The gritty debris invaded his eyes, grinding against his skin, causing a sharp, burning pain.


    He stumbled backward, his hands instinctively flying to his face, trying to rub the dirt out of his stinging eyes. For the first time, his dominance wavered.


    The Moment of Hesitation


    The surrounding thugs froze, their eyes widening. They had expected a brawl, not a dirty trick.


    For half a second, they didn''t react.


    That half-second was all Raven needed.


    Even the watching players murmured in surprise.


    "Wait, can we do that?"


    "Is dirt even a usable weapon?"


    "Damn, that''s actually smart."


    A few even chuckled.


    One of the thugs recovered first, taking half a step forward. His mouth opened, about to shout¡ª


    But Raven was already moving.


    He pushed off the ground, his muscles coiled like a spring.


    A burst of speed.


    His boots barely made a sound as he exploded into a sprint toward the nearest alleyway.


    The Aftermath


    Garrett was still cursing, rubbing his eyes, staggering slightly.


    The other thugs finally snapped out of their confusion.


    "Shit! He''s running!"


    "Get him!"


    But they were too slow.


    Raven''s distraction had done its job. He had five seconds before they fully recovered.


    And five seconds was all he needed.

 Chapter 15 thugs

    Raven''s boots hit the ground hard as he sprinted toward the alleyway, his mind racing as fast as his feet.


    Behind him, the thugs had finally recovered.


    "Get him!" one of them roared, the sound of heavy boots pounding against the cobblestone as they gave chase.


    Garrett, still half-blind, snarled, "Don''t let him escape!"


    Raven ignored the shouting, focusing instead on his surroundings. The alley was narrow and dimly lit, filled with broken crates, discarded trash, and uneven walls. It was the perfect terrain for someone like him.


    Three seconds left before they fully closed the gap.


    Time to disappear.


    Activating [Stealth]


    As he dashed into the alley, Raven flicked his fingers, activating [Stealth] (LVL 1).


    A faint ripple of dark energy shimmered over his body. For a moment, his outline blurred, his colors fading to match the dim alley walls.


    [Stealth Activated ¨C Duration: 5 Seconds]


    Effect:


    Visibility reduced in low-light areas.


    Noise production -10%.


    Detection Chance: Medium (Can still be spotted if enemies look closely).


    The world seemed to muffle slightly, as if a thin veil had fallen over reality. His footsteps lightened, his breathing slowed, and his movements became more precise.


    The Chase Begins


    Two of the thugs burst into the alley a second later.


    One of them, a heavyset brute with a scar over his nose, pointed down the path.


    "I saw him go this way!"


    The other, leaner but quick, narrowed his eyes.


    "Where is he?" he muttered, scanning the alley.


    Raven held his breath. He had ducked behind a stack of broken barrels, his body pressed low against the damp wall. His Stealth wasn''t perfect¡ªif they looked too hard, they might still spot him.


    The heavyset thug growled in frustration, storming past Raven''s hiding spot. His boots crushed discarded paper and broken glass, but he wasn''t paying attention to his surroundings.


    The lean thug, however, paused.


    His gaze swept over the alley, his eyes lingering on the very spot where Raven was crouched.


    For a second, it felt like time froze.


    Raven''s heartbeat remained steady. He didn''t move. He didn''t breathe.


    Detection Check¡­


    The thug squinted.


    His fingers tightened around the hilt of his rusted dagger.


    Then¡ª


    "Damn it, he''s fast! Keep going!"


    The thug turned away, dashing forward to follow his comrade.


    Raven exhaled silently.


    [Stealth Duration: 3 Seconds Remaining]


    Moving While Stealthed


    He didn''t wait. The moment the thugs moved ahead, Raven carefully shifted his position, keeping to the shadows.


    He hugged the alley walls, his footsteps light and deliberate. He knew that even the tiniest noise could blow his cover.


    A third thug rushed into the alley behind them.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    "Did you find him?"


    "No, but he went this way. Spread out!"


    Raven smirked internally. They were going the wrong way.


    With 2 seconds of Stealth left, he angled his body toward an escape route¡ª


    A low-hanging wooden awning, perfect for climbing.


    He tensed his legs, ready to move the moment Stealth ended.


    Raven had seconds before his Stealth wore off. He needed to leave the alley¡ªfast.


    The thugs were searching, their footsteps pounding against the cobblestone. They were spreading out, checking every shadow, every crate, every possible hiding spot.


    If he stayed here, they''d find him.


    His crimson eyes flickered toward his only escape route¡ªa low-hanging wooden awning attached to the side of an old tavern. The wooden support beams looked sturdy enough to hold his weight.


    The Climb ¨C Every Move Counts


    Raven shifted his weight onto the balls of his feet, positioning himself for a quick, controlled climb.


    Just as his Stealth timer hit 1 second, he sprang upward, gripping the awning''s wooden frame.


    His boots barely made a sound as they pushed off the wall, allowing him to swing his body upward.


    [Stealth Ended]


    His camouflage faded, but by then, he was already above their line of sight.


    He hauled himself onto the awning, his movements precise, practiced. He had scaled buildings before¡ªhis past life''s instincts kicking in.


    ---


    Below ¨C The Thugs'' Perspective


    The three thugs stopped, looking around.


    The scarred thug growled. "He was here just a second ago."


    The lean thug scanned the alley again, his frustration clear. "Where the hell did he go?!"


    The third thug kicked a crate over. "Damn it, he''s gotta be hiding somewhere."


    One of them even looked up¡ªbut only for a moment.


    The morning sky, the wooden beams, the tangled clotheslines above¡ªnothing seemed out of place.


    They never thought to check the awning.


    ---


    Moving Across the Rooftops


    Raven stayed still, pressing his body flat against the wooden beam. He waited until they moved further down the alley, their curses growing fainter.


    Only then did he push forward.


    The roof of the tavern was just above him.


    He reached for a nearby gutter pipe, gripping it firmly as he hoisted himself onto the rooftop. His movements were controlled, deliberate¡ªsilent.


    The moment he reached the top, he dropped into a low crouch, scanning his surroundings.


    The city stretched out before him, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. Below, the thugs were still scrambling in confusion.


    He had won.


    Analyzing the Situation


    Raven allowed himself a small smirk.


    "First fight, first escape¡­ not bad."


    But he wasn''t safe yet.


    The thugs would remember this. Garrett, especially, would want revenge.


    For now, though?


    He had disappeared.


    And that was all that mattered.


    Raven crouched low, keeping to the shadows cast by chimneys and slanted rooftops. The early morning light painted the town in pale gold, but that wasn''t the problem anymore.


    Down below, the town was alive. Players flooded the streets, their voices mixing with the chatter of NPC merchants and quest-givers. Some were forming parties, others bartering for gear, and a few were already dueling in the open training grounds.


    It was perfect cover.


    Raven smirked. He moved swiftly, leaping across a narrow gap between buildings. As he reached the edge of the rooftop, he spotted a merchant''s awning below¡ªthin fabric, but it would break his fall just enough.


    No hesitation. He jumped.


    The awning flexed under his weight before snapping back, softening his landing. He rolled forward, blending seamlessly into the bustling wave of players passing through the marketplace.


    Then¡ª


    Ding!


    A faint chime echoed in his ears, followed by a familiar notification window.


    ---


    [System Message]


    You have completed the Unique Quest: "A Silent Exit"!


    Rewards:


    +1 Agility


    500 EXP


    Title: Shadowborn (Increases movement speed by 2% in urban environments)


    ---


    Raven barely reacted. Of course it was a unique quest. He had read about it in his past life.


    A player had bragged about it on the forums, claiming he had "accidentally" triggered a hidden event in the starting town after escaping a group of NPC thugs.


    It had been a hot topic for a while¡ªa one-time-only quest, available only to the first player who successfully evaded pursuit using the town''s environment. No retries, no second chances. If he had been caught or taken too long, the quest would have been lost forever.


    The thread had been filled with theories¡ªsome players believed it required perfect stealth, others thought it was tied to an agility stat check. Nobody had figured out the exact trigger.


    But Raven knew.


    It wasn''t just about escaping¡ªit was about using the world itself. Climbing, hiding, moving through the town''s structures in a way normal players wouldn''t. It was a test of instinct and adaptability.


    And unlike that clueless forum poster, he had done it on purpose.


    He dismissed the window and kept moving. The thugs wouldn''t find him here. They were still searching the alleys, unaware that their target had already slipped into the ever-growing sea of players.


    He was gone.


    For now.


    Raven moved smoothly through the crowd, his expression unreadable. He had expected the quest reward, but what he really cared about was what came next.


    Because now? The starting town had changed.


    ---


    The Players'' Reaction


    At first, nobody noticed anything unusual. Players were busy accepting their first quests, forming parties, and exploring the town.


    Then the shouting started.


    "What the hell?! The thugs took all my money!"


    "Wait, they used to rob only 5 copper, right? Why are they taking 10 now?!"


    "They took everything! I just spawned in, man!"


    A ripple of confusion and frustration spread through the marketplace. New players, freshly spawned into the game, were supposed to receive exactly 10 copper as their starting money¡ªjust enough for basic supplies.


    But now? The thugs in the alleyways were robbing all of it.


    Some players tried to fight back.


    Bad idea.


    A level 1 player, armed with nothing but beginner gear, stood no chance against armed thugs. The system didn''t let them kill players outright in town, but the NPCs had no problem beating them down and leaving them with nothing.


    More and more frustrated shouts filled the air.


    "Yo, who pissed off the thugs?!"


    "They weren''t this aggressive in the beta¡­"


    "Some idiot probably triggered an event."


    Raven smirked but said nothing.


    He knew exactly what had happened. His escape had changed the town''s balance.


    ---


    The Thugs'' Anger


    Back in the alleys, the three thugs were fuming.


    The scarred thug slammed his fist against a wooden crate. "He made a fool out of us!"


    The lean thug spat on the ground. "Bastard vanished like a damn ghost. Garrett''s gonna be pissed."


    The third thug, the one who had kicked over a crate earlier, grinned darkly. "So what? We couldn''t get him, but we can make the rest of these clueless idiots pay."


    The scarred thug''s anger cooled into something more calculating.


    "You''re right," he muttered. "If we can''t have our revenge, we''ll make sure every poor bastard who steps into this town suffers."


    And so, their robbery amount doubled.


    5 copper became 10.


    A minor inconvenience for later players, but for those just starting? It was a disaster.


    With no money, they couldn''t buy potions, food, or even cheap weapons. Every player who got robbed would have to grind mobs outside town with nothing but their default gear.


    The thugs were petty, cruel, and vengeful.


    And Raven?


    He had no reason to care.


    Let them struggle.


    This was only the beginning.


    Raven continued moving through the crowded streets, blending in effortlessly. The thugs were furious, the players were frustrated, but he had already moved past all that.


    What he hadn''t expected, though¡ªwas just how big of a deal his escape was becoming.


    ---


    The Forums React


    Somewhere, in the real world, a player had been watching from the rooftops when Raven made his daring escape. They hadn''t been strong enough to intervene, but they had recorded it.


    And now? The clip was spreading fast.


    ---


    [Forum Post: "Did anyone else see this?? First player to escape the thugs!"]


    > OP: Bro, I was just passing through the alley when I saw some dude run straight into the thugs. Thought he was done for, but NOPE¡ªhe climbed a wall and disappeared.


    They were searching everywhere, and he was literally right above them. They didn''t even think to look up!


    And now? The thugs are robbing EVERYONE for ALL their money.


    WHO IS THIS GUY???


    ---


    Within minutes, the post exploded with replies.


    [Top Comments]


    [Blazing riders]: "LOL, no way. You''re saying he just got lucky and the NPCs didn''t spot him?"


    [PhantomStrike]: "I mean¡­ hiding on a roof isn''t exactly skill. Sounds like he barely made it."


    [MidnightPath]: "Classic newbie luck. Bet if he tried again, he''d get caught instantly."


    [ShadowBale]: "Lucky bastard triggered a unique quest by accident. Meanwhile, I''m out here getting beaten up for 10 copper."


    [BLAZEKing]: "Y''all acting like he''s some pro when he probably just spammed jump and got away by chance."


    All are third rate guilds which are in viles town second rate and first guild had branches not complete guild.superate guild will not care about kingdom, city and town players as they will focus on occupying empire .

 Chapter 16 hidden mentor

    Raven moved through the filth-stained streets, his crimson eyes scanning the decaying town with quiet calculation.Unaware¡ªor simply uninterested¡ªin the chaos unraveling behind him, he walked with purpose.The forums were in flames.New players cursed his name.Guilds fought like starving dogs over scraps.Thieves prowled unchecked, robbing anyone too weak to fight back.None of it mattered.While others struggled to survive, Raven was already ahead.Somewhere in this wretched place, a hidden door to power lay open¡ªif you knew where to look.---Vile Town ¨C A City of Filth and RotVile Town was exactly what its name promised¡ªvile.The air reeked of unwashed bodies, rotting garbage, and the thick, metallic scent of dried blood. The cobbled streets were cracked and uneven, littered with refuse and something too dark and sticky to be just mud. Faint wisps of smoke curled from distant fires, and the distant wail of a dying man echoed through the alleys.This was no welcoming beginner zone.This was a cesspool where the weak were devoured and only the cunning survived.Raven moved through the squalor, unbothered.A blacksmith stood outside his forge, hammering away at rusted iron. His weapons were crude, barely a step above scrap metal, but desperate players still swarmed him, bartering frantically for anything that might keep them alive.A potion vendor waved grimy bottles at passing adventurers, his voice oily. "Healing potions, cheap! Mayyybe expired, but better than nothing, eh?" The liquid inside was a sickly brown, but desperate players bought them anyway.A gang of thugs leaned against a crumbling wall, watching the crowd with hungry eyes. A weak player passed too close, and within seconds, he was dragged into the shadows. His screams didn''t last long.Vile Town thrived on suffering.But Raven?He was already above it.Without hesitation, he turned away from the main streets, heading for a place most players never even noticed.---The Hidden OpportunityThe deeper he went, the quieter it became.This part of Vile Town was different. The buildings were more than just run-down¡ªthey were skeletal remains of places long abandoned, their windows shattered, their doors barely clinging to rusted hinges. No merchants. No beggars. Just silence.But Raven''s memory was flawless.In his past life, a player had stumbled across something valuable here¡ªa hidden NPC lurking in the filth.Most ignored him.No quest marker. No glowing text. Nothing to suggest he was anything more than background scenery.But in reality?He was the first step toward something far greater.Raven''s pace slowed as he turned a corner, his eyes locking onto a familiar sight.A ragged old man sat slumped against a moss-covered wall, his tattered cloak draped over his skeletal frame. His face was hidden beneath a hood, but his fingers twitched slightly¡ªaware, not idle.Most players would have walked right past him.But Raven knew better.This was no ordinary beggar.This was a hidden mentor.And Raven knew exactly what he would offer.His smirk returned as he approached. Without hesitation, he pulled a flask of cheap ale from his inventory¡ªsomething he had grabbed earlier, knowing he would need it.He crouched slightly, holding it out."Need a drink, old man?"For a moment, there was no response.Then, a low chuckle rasped from beneath the hood¡ªdry, hoarse, yet laced with something sharp."¡­You''re an interesting one.


    "[ Hidden Quest Discovered: ??? ]


    Raven''s smirk widened.Right on schedule.


    The ragged old man leaned against the damp, crumbling stone wall, his frail hands gripping the cheap flask Raven had handed him. The air in this part of Vile Town was thick¡ªstagnant with the scent of rot, unwashed bodies, and old blood.Yet, despite the filth and ruin, Raven remained calm, his crimson eyes locked onto the beggar with quiet intensity.This was not just some worthless NPC.This was the beginning of something far greater.---A Drink for a ConversationThe beggar let out a slow, wheezing chuckle as he uncorked the bottle, tilting it to his lips. The murky liquid inside sloshed as he took a long, deliberate sip.His throat bobbed, and for a moment, he seemed to savor the taste¡ªthough whether out of desperation or nostalgia, Raven couldn''t tell.When he pulled the bottle away, a smirk tugged at the corners of his cracked lips."¡­Didn''t think I''d see the day some young fool would notice me."His voice was hoarse, roughened by years of hardship. There was amusement in his tone, but beneath it lay something sharper¡ªsomething watchful.Raven didn''t react. He simply waited.The beggar studied him, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp beneath the shadow of his hood."Most folk walk by without so much as a glance. And the ones that do? They just see another drunk rotting away in the streets." His fingers tapped against the flask. "But not you, huh?"Raven''s smirk didn''t waver. "I notice everything."The beggar let out another chuckle, low and knowing. "That so?" He shifted slightly, setting the flask down beside him. "Then tell me¡­ what is it you want?"---The First TestA system notification flickered into view.


    [Hidden Quest Updated: ???]


    State your purpose to the old man. Choose wisely.Raven''s expression didn''t change.This was a test.Not of strength. Not of skill. Not even of intelligence.No¡ªthis was a test of perception.A single wrong answer, and the beggar would shake his head, muttering some nonsense about fools and wasted time. Then, he would vanish from the game''s progression¡ªforever.In Raven''s past life, this hidden event had remained undiscovered for years. Even when someone had stumbled upon it by accident, they had failed to unlock its full potential.But this time?This time, Raven was in control.---The Right AnswerHe didn''t hesitate."I want knowledge," he said smoothly. His tone was even, deliberate¡ªlike he already knew the answer. "Not coin. Not power. Just the truth hidden beneath the surface."The beggar went still.For a long, tense moment, he simply stared at Raven.Then, slowly, a grin stretched across his face¡ªrevealing crooked, yellowed teeth."¡­Now that''s an answer I wasn''t expecting."A soft ding echoed in Raven''s mind.[Quest Objective Completed: Answer Correctly][Hidden Quest Progression Unlocked]The beggar tapped the ground beside him, motioning for Raven to sit."Well then, sharp eyes¡­ Let''s see if you''re worthy."Raven took a seat without hesitation.The real game was about to begin.


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    The flickering torchlight barely reached this corner of Vile Town, casting long, jagged shadows that danced like specters on the damp, crumbling walls. The air was thick with the stench of decay¡ªrotting wood, stagnant water, and the acrid tang of unwashed bodies. It was a place where the desperate and the damned congregated, where the light of hope was snuffed out as quickly as it flickered to life. Yet, in this forsaken corner, Raven stood, his sharp eyes scanning the beggar before him with a calculating gaze.The beggar was an enigma, a puzzle wrapped in tattered cloth and filth. His cloak, frayed and patched, hung loosely over his gaunt frame, but there was an unnatural stillness to him, a poise that belied his ragged appearance. His sunken cheeks and hollow eyes spoke of hardship, but the glint in his gaze was sharp, almost predatory. He sat cross-legged on the cold, wet cobblestones, a flask clutched in his bony fingers. The rhythmic tapping of his nails against the metal surface¡ª*tap, tap, tap*¡ªwas deliberate, almost hypnotic, as if it were a code or a signal meant for Raven alone.Raven didn''t move. He didn''t speak. He simply observed, his instincts screaming that this was no ordinary encounter. The beggar''s presence was too calculated, his words too measured. This was no random NPC; this was something else entirely."You remind me of someone," the beggar muttered, his voice a low, gravelly rasp that seemed to echo unnaturally in the narrow alley. "A long time ago, another fool sat where you are now."Raven''s eyes narrowed, but he remained silent. The beggar''s words were bait, and Raven wasn''t one to bite easily. He had learned long ago that in places like Vile Town, words were weapons, and silence was a shield.The beggar chuckled, a dry, wheezing sound that sent a shiver down Raven''s spine. "But you''re different," he continued, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "You see through the rot. Through the filth. Through *me*."Raven tilted his head slightly, his expression unreadable. "You talk too much for a beggar."The old man''s lips curled into a grin, revealing cracked, yellowed teeth. It was a smile that didn''t reach his eyes, a smile that felt more like a threat than an expression of amusement. "And you listen too well for a fool."A sudden gust of wind swept through the alley, carrying with it the faintest whisper of voices¡ªvoices that shouldn''t have been there. The torchlight flickered violently, its flame shrinking as though the darkness itself was pressing in, suffocating the light. The shadows on the walls seemed to writhe and twist, elongating into grotesque shapes that clawed at the edges of Raven''s vision.The beggar leaned forward, his hood slipping slightly to reveal more of his face. His eyes, once dull and sunken, now glowed with an unnatural light, piercing through the gloom like twin embers. "So tell me, sharp eyes¡­ If you seek knowledge, are you ready to pay the price?"---### A Dangerous BargainA system prompt flickered into view, its glowing text cutting through the oppressive darkness.**[Hidden Quest Updated: ???]** ¨C Accept the Beggar''s Bargain? **[Yes] / [No]**Raven didn''t hesitate. He smirked, a flicker of amusement crossing his features as he selected **[Yes]**. He had always been drawn to danger, to the unknown. It was in his nature to seek out the edges of the world, to push boundaries and unravel secrets. And this¡ªthis was a secret worth unraveling.The beggar''s grin widened, stretching far beyond what should have been possible. His lips curled back to reveal not just teeth, but something darker, something *wrong*. The air around him seemed to warp, the shadows clinging to his form like a second skin. Then, without warning, reality twisted.---### The World ShiftsThe sounds of Vile Town vanished as though they had been swallowed by the void. The distant shouts of merchants, the clanging of steel from the blacksmith''s forge, the occasional scream of a drunkard or a thief¡ªall of it was gone, replaced by an eerie, oppressive silence. Even the torchlight seemed to dim, its flame shrinking until it was little more than a faint glow, barely illuminating the alley.The air grew heavy, thick with an unseen presence that pressed down on Raven''s chest, making it hard to breathe. The shadows on the walls began to move on their own, writhing and twisting like living things, their shapes shifting into grotesque, unrecognizable forms. The cobblestones beneath Raven''s feet grew damp, but it wasn''t water that seeped through the cracks. It was something darker, something that clung to his boots with a sticky, almost sentient persistence.And the beggar¡ªhe was changing.His cloak, once a simple, tattered garment, now writhed and twisted around him as though it had a life of its own. The fabric seemed to melt and reform, shifting into something darker, more sinister. His bony fingers twitched, the skin rippling as though something beneath the surface was struggling to break free. His face contorted, his features shifting and warping until they were no longer human.When he spoke again, his voice was layered¡ªa chorus of whispers and growls that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere at once. "¡­Good," the beggar rasped, his many voices overlapping in a discordant symphony. "Then let''s begin."A sharp *ding* echoed in Raven''s mind, the sound cutting through the oppressive silence like a knife.**[Hidden Quest Updated: The Forgotten Trial]** ¨C Survive the First Test.The ground beneath Raven''s feet trembled, the cobblestones shifting and cracking as though something massive was stirring beneath the surface. The air grew colder, the shadows deeper, and the torchlight flickered one last time before being snuffed out entirely, plunging the alley into complete darkness.Something was awakening. Something ancient. Something *hungry*.Raven''s hand instinctively went to the hilt of his dagger, his senses on high alert. He couldn''t see, but he could feel it¡ªthe presence in the darkness, the weight of its gaze pressing down on him. The Forgotten Trial had begun, and Raven knew one thing for certain: there was no turning back now.

 Chapter 17 forgotten trail

    Raven stepped into the alley, and the world shifted.


    The flickering torchlight twisted unnaturally, casting jagged shadows that seemed to move on their own. The air turned thick with rot, heavy with the scent of decay. A low rasp echoed through the space¡ªhollow, unnatural.


    Then, they appeared.


    Shadowspawn.


    Twisted creatures of black mist and glowing violet eyes.


    And each one bore a faint, ghostly aura¡ªa marker of level and intent.


    A chime rang in his mind, followed by a glowing system prompt.


    ---


    [Hidden Quest Updated: The Forgotten Trial ¨C Survival Hour]


    ¨C Survive for one hour against Level 1 Shadowspawn.


    ¨C Skill Proficiency: Gain +1 proficiency for every successful skill use.


    ¨C Objective: Survive and grow stronger.


    ---


    Raven''s grip tightened around his dagger.


    An hour of relentless combat.


    An hour of endless enemies.


    It wasn''t just a trial¡ªit was an opportunity.


    The first Shadowspawn lunged.


    ---


    The Dance of Blades and Shadows


    Instead of clashing head-on, Raven vanished.


    One step into the shadows. A controlled breath. Silence.


    The creature hesitated. Its glowing eyes darted around, confused.


    Then¡ªhe struck.


    A dagger to the base of the skull. Clean. Efficient.


    The Shadowspawn collapsed, dissolving into black mist.


    A chime rang.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ---


    [Stealth Proficiency: +1] ¡ú (1/100)


    [Backstab Proficiency: +1] ¡ú (1/100)


    ---


    Raven smirked. This was going to be fun.


    The next wave approached.


    He slipped behind the nearest enemy, his steps silent. Another kill¡ªanother backstab. The rhythm came naturally. He vanished¡ªstruck¡ªvanished again.


    Each time, the system rewarded him.


    ---


    [Stealth Proficiency: +5] ¡ú (6/100)


    [Backstab Proficiency: +5] ¡ú (6/100)


    ---


    At the 20-minute mark, his movements became sharper. Faster.


    The creatures started hesitating, scanning the darkness before moving.


    They could sense him now.


    But it didn''t matter.


    ---


    The Turning Point


    At 30 minutes, the creatures adapted.


    They spread out. Moved in coordinated patterns. Hunted him.


    Then, it appeared.


    A towering Shadowspawn. Larger than the rest. Intelligent.


    ---


    [Elite Shadowspawn ¨C The Watcher]


    Level: 1 (Enhanced)


    Abilities: Shadow Detection, Adaptation


    Status: Hunting


    ---


    The Watcher didn''t move like the others. It scanned the battlefield with slow, deliberate movements.


    It was looking for him.


    Raven took a slow breath, sinking deeper into the shadows. His heartbeat slowed. His body relaxed.


    The Watcher''s gaze passed over him.


    Then, for the first time, it turned its back.


    A fatal mistake.


    Raven struck.


    ---


    [Stealth Proficiency: +3] ¡ú (10/100)


    [Backstab Proficiency: +3] ¡ú (10/100)


    ---


    The Watcher staggered, its form twisting in agony. It let out a guttural, rattling hiss, its body already failing.


    His dagger had punctured something vital.


    It collapsed. Dead.


    ---


    [Survival Hour: Progress Update]


    ¨C Elapsed Time: 35 minutes


    ¨C Total Shadowspawn Eliminated: 19


    ¨C Current Skill Growth:


    [Stealth Proficiency: 10/100]


    [Backstab Proficiency: 10/100]


    ---


    The Final Challenge


    The system didn''t stop.


    It adapted.


    The remaining 25 minutes pushed Raven to his limit. The Shadowspawn moved in groups, forcing him to be more creative.


    He learned to blend into the environment more efficiently. To time his attacks to perfection.


    With every successful stealth kill, his mastery grew.


    Until finally¡ª


    ---


    [Skill Level Up!]


    [Stealth Proficiency: Level 2]


    [Backstab Proficiency: Level 2]


    The final Shadowspawn fell.


    A soft chime echoed. The hour had passed.


    The alley was silent.


    No more shadowy figures lurked in the darkness. No more glowing eyes watched from the abyss. The hour of survival had ended.


    Raven stood still, his breath steady despite the relentless battle. His dagger dripped with black ichor, the remnants of his fallen enemies already dissolving into mist. The world felt sharper now. His body moved with newfound precision, each motion flowing with instinctual ease.


    Then, the familiar chime rang in his mind.


    A glowing system prompt materialized before him, bathing the alley in a soft golden light.


    ---


    [Trial Complete: The Forgotten Trial ¨C Survival Hour]


    Objective: Survive for One Hour Against Level 1 Shadowspawn ¨C COMPLETE


    Total Shadowspawn Eliminated: 43


    Final Skill Growth:


    [Stealth Proficiency: Level 2]


    [Backstab Proficiency: Level 2]


    New Reward Unlocked!


    [Item Acquired: Forgotten Skill Book ¨C Poison Dart]


    ---


    Raven''s eyes flickered with curiosity. A skill book?


    As if answering his unspoken question, a faint ripple disturbed the air before him. Shadows swirled, condensing into a small, leather-bound book that floated gently in midair. Its cover was cracked and aged, marked with faint glowing runes that pulsed with a quiet energy.


    The moment Raven reached out, a new prompt appeared.


    ---


    [Forgotten Skill Book ¨C Poison Dart]


    Type: Skill Book


    Effect: Unlocks the skill [Poison Dart ¨C Level 1] upon use.


    Note: Can only be learned once.


    ---


    Raven didn''t hesitate.


    The moment his fingers touched the rough surface of the book, a rush of energy surged through his body. The cover flipped open on its own, pages turning rapidly as glowing symbols lifted from the parchment and sank into his skin.


    A sharp, burning sensation coiled through his palm, as if liquid fire had seeped into his veins. It wasn''t painful¡ªjust potent.


    The book crumbled into ash.


    Another chime rang.


    ---


    [Skill Acquired: Poison Dart ¨C Level 1]


    Type: Ranged / Debuff


    Effect: Coats a small projectile in lethal venom, dealing gradual poison damage over time. Damage scales with Dexterity and Stealth proficiency.


    Cooldown: 10 seconds


    ---


    Raven lifted his hand.


    A faint greenish-black mist curled around his fingertips, its toxic energy pulsing in sync with his heartbeat. He focused, and the mist sharpened into a condensed dart-like form, hovering just above his palm.


    Interesting.


    The trial had tested him. The system had rewarded him.


    Now, he had something new¡ªa hidden weapon in the form of silent, lethal venom.


    He clenched his fist, dispersing the energy.


    This was only the beginning.

 Chapter 18 trail 2 silent hunt

    ### **Trial 2: The Silent Hunt**


    The world shifted again, but this time, it wasn''t just a change of scenery¡ªit was a descent into something ancient, something alive. The damp alleyway dissolved into a sprawling ruin, its stones weathered by centuries of neglect. Raven stood atop a cracked stone path, his boots barely making a sound as he adjusted his stance. The air was thick with the scent of moss and decay, and the faint hum of bioluminescent fungi cast an otherworldly glow across the ruins. The silence was oppressive, as if the temple itself was holding its breath.


    Then, the chime rang.


    ---


    **[Hidden Quest Updated: The Forgotten Trial ¨C The Silent Hunt]**


    **Objective:** Eliminate 10 targets without being detected.


    **Bonus:** Complete the trial within 30 minutes for an additional reward.


    **Skill Proficiency:** Increased proficiency gain for successful stealth kills.


    ---


    Raven''s grip tightened around his dagger, its hilt cool against his palm. This wasn''t a test of endurance like the first trial. This was a test of precision, patience, and perfection. He crouched low, his movements fluid as he merged into the shadows. His heartbeat slowed, his breath steady. The hunt had begun.


    ---


    ### **The Hunters and the Hunted**


    A flicker of movement ahead caught his eye. These weren''t the mindless Shadowspawn from before. These were **Wraith Sentinels**¡ªghostly figures clad in ancient, tattered armor. Their faces were hidden beneath helmets, their glowing violet eyes sweeping the ruins with eerie precision. They moved with purpose, their steps deliberate, their weapons gleaming faintly in the dim light.


    A system prompt materialized.


    ---


    **[Wraith Sentinel]**


    **Level:** 3


    **Abilities:**


    - **Enhanced Hearing:** Can detect subtle sounds within a 15-meter radius.


    - **Darkvision:** Can see in low-light conditions.


    - **Group Awareness:** If one is alerted, all will respond.


    ---


    Raven''s smirk faded. **Darkvision** meant the shadows wouldn''t guarantee safety. **Enhanced Hearing** meant even the faintest mistake¡ªa misstep, a rustle of fabric¡ªwould give him away. And **Group Awareness** meant a single slip could turn this trial into a death trap.


    The odds had changed.


    But so had he.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    ---


    ### **First Blood**


    Raven stalked his first target, moving low and slow, his footfalls lighter than falling dust. The Wraith Sentinel paced along a broken archway, its armor faintly clinking as it turned its head, scanning the darkness. It wasn''t blind. It was hunting.


    Raven reached into his palm. A faint green-black mist curled around his fingers, forming a thin, pulsing projectile¡ª**Poison Dart**. The energy felt volatile, like liquid venom twisting in his grasp. He took a quiet breath, steadied his aim, and flicked his wrist.


    The dart whispered through the air, barely disturbing the stillness.


    It struck the Wraith just below the neck.


    The effect was instant.


    The Wraith stiffened, a faint violet glow pulsing from the impact site. A slow paralysis crept through its limbs. It staggered, struggling to lift its weapon.


    Raven didn''t waste a second. He darted forward, dagger flashing. A clean, silent stab to the throat.


    The Wraith collapsed.


    No sound. No alarm. Just silence.


    Then¡ªthe chime.


    ---


    **[Silent Kill ¨C Bonus Proficiency Gained!]**


    - **Stealth Proficiency:** +15 ¡ú (15/300)


    - **Backstab Proficiency:** +15 ¡ú (15/300)


    - **Poison Dart Proficiency:** +5 ¡ú (5/100)


    ---


    One down.


    Nine to go.


    And the others had no idea.


    ---


    ### **The Perfect Hunt**


    Raven became a shadow. His movements were precise, calculated. He moved like a predator, his senses heightened, his mind sharp. The ruins were his hunting ground, and the Wraiths were his prey.


    Another Wraith passed beneath a collapsed column, its head slowly turning as it surveyed the ruins. Raven waited, his body coiled like a spring. He could feel the beat of his own pulse, the tension in his limbs. He exhaled softly, then struck.


    **Poison Dart.**


    The second Wraith froze, its reaction slower than before. Raven had aimed for the spine this time, sending the venom deeper into its form. It barely had time to react before his dagger found its mark.


    Another chime.


    ---


    **[Stealth Proficiency:** +20 ¡ú (35/300)]


    **[Backstab Proficiency:** +20 ¡ú (35/300)]


    **[Poison Dart Proficiency:** +10 ¡ú (15/100)]


    ---


    One after another, they fell.


    A strike to the throat.


    A stab to the spine.


    A silent disappearance into the night.


    Each **Poison Dart** was used strategically¡ªslowing, weakening, crippling before the final blow. Raven''s confidence grew with each kill, but so did his caution. The Wraiths were adapting.


    ---


    ### **The Adaptation**


    Twenty minutes passed. Only three Wraiths remained.


    And they had noticed.


    The last three moved in a tight formation, their heads snapping to every sound, their grips on their weapons tightening. They weren''t patrolling anymore. They were searching.


    Raven crouched behind a crumbling pillar, his mind racing. A direct kill was too risky now. If he struck one, the others would react instantly. He needed a distraction.


    ---


    ### **The Final Kill**


    Raven positioned himself atop a broken pillar, watching the Wraiths converge. He exhaled softly, then aimed his **Poison Dart**¡ªnot at the Wraiths, but at a nearby pile of debris.


    The impact sent a faint crack through the air.


    The Wraiths turned¡ªblades drawn, advancing toward the sound.


    Raven moved.


    A step into the shadows. A blur of motion. A dagger to the throat of the last one in line.


    Before the others could react¡ªhe was already gone.


    Another kill. Another step deeper into the hunt.


    The second Wraith barely had time to turn before Raven struck again.


    The last one tried to react¡ªtoo late.


    A final, lethal stab to the heart.


    Silence.


    The last Wraith collapsed.


    The ruins faded.


    The chime rang one final time.


    ---


    ### **Trial Complete**


    Raven stood alone in the alley, his breath calm, his body still. The weight of the battle hadn''t slowed him. The system prompt materialized before him.


    ---


    **[Trial Complete: The Forgotten Trial ¨C The Silent Hunt]**


    **Objective:** Eliminate 10 Targets Without Detection ¨C **COMPLETE**


    **Bonus Objective:** Completed Within 30 Minutes ¨C **BONUS REWARD UNLOCKED**


    **Final Skill Growth:**


    - **Stealth Proficiency:** +100 ¡ú (135/300)


    - **Backstab Proficiency:** +100 ¡ú (135/300)


    - **Poison Dart Proficiency:** +40 ¡ú (55/100)


    ---


    **New Reward Unlocked!**


    **[Item Acquired: Wraith Cloak]**


    A ripple disturbed the air. A dark cloak materialized before him¡ªwoven from shifting shadows, its surface flickering between reality and the void. A new prompt appeared.


    ---


    **[Wraith Cloak]**


    **Type:** Equipment (Cloak)


    **Effect:**


    - Enhances Stealth effectiveness.


    - Reduces sound by 50%.


    - Grants brief invisibility when standing still.


    ---


    Raven lifted the cloak, the fabric impossibly light, almost like wearing the night itself. He draped it over his shoulders, feeling its power settle around him. It was a perfect reward for a perfect hunt.


    The system was testing him.


    But he was thriving.


    And this was only the beginning.


    ---


    ### **Epilogue: The Shadow''s Edge**


    As Raven adjusted the Wraith Cloak, he felt a subtle shift in the air. The alleyway seemed darker, the shadows deeper. He glanced at his hands, now faintly shimmering with the cloak''s power. The trial had pushed him to his limits, but it had also revealed his potential.


    He wasn''t just surviving the trials. He was mastering them.


    And somewhere, in the depths of the system, something stirred. A presence, ancient and watchful, had taken notice.


    The hunt was far from over.

 Chapter 19 Final trial

    The world shifted once more, but this time, it wasn''t a gradual transition. It was a violent tear, as if reality itself had been ripped apart. Raven felt the ground vanish beneath his feet, the air grow thin, and his senses blur. When the world reformed, he stood in a place that defied comprehension.---### The Arena of ShadowsThe arena was vast, a circular expanse of blackened stone that seemed to stretch endlessly into the void. Above, there was no sky¡ªonly a swirling maelstrom of dark clouds, crackling with violet lightning. The ground was etched with ancient runes that pulsed faintly, as if alive. At the center of the arena stood a towering obelisk, its surface covered in shifting, glowing symbols. The air was heavy with an oppressive energy, a palpable sense of dread.Raven''s instincts screamed at him. This was no ordinary trial. This was the culmination of everything he had faced so far.The chime rang, sharp and foreboding.---[Final Trial Updated: The Shadow''s Edge]**Objective: Survive the onslaught and defeat the Shadow Warden. Bonus: Complete the trial without taking damage for an additional reward. Skill Proficiency: Maximum proficiency gain for all actions. ---Raven''s grip tightened around his dagger, the Wraith Cloak shifting around him like a living shadow. He could feel the weight of the trial pressing down on him, but he also felt a strange exhilaration. This was it. The final test.---### The Onslaught BeginsThe ground trembled as the first wave emerged from the shadows. They were Shadow Revenants¡ªtaller and more menacing than the Wraith Sentinels, their forms wreathed in dark flames. Their eyes burned with a malevolent intelligence, and their weapons glowed with an eerie light.A system prompt appeared.---[Shadow Revenant]** Level: 5 Abilities: - Shadow Step: Can teleport short distances. - Flame Whip: Wields a whip of dark fire that burns on contact. - Soul Drain: Drains stamina with each strike. ---Raven didn''t wait for them to attack. He moved first, darting forward with the speed of a predator. His Wraith Cloak muffled his footsteps, and the shadows seemed to bend around him. He activated Poison Dart, sending a projectile into the nearest Revenant''s chest. The creature staggered, its movements slowing as the venom took hold.Raven closed the distance, his dagger flashing. A clean strike to the throat, and the Revenant collapsed into ash.But there was no time to celebrate. The others were already closing in.---### The Dance of DeathThe battle was a blur of motion and precision. Raven moved like a ghost, his every action calculated. He used the environment to his advantage, ducking behind pillars and using the obelisk as cover. His Poison Dart became a crucial tool, slowing enemies and creating openings for.The Revenants were relentless, their Shadow Step ability making them unpredictable. Raven had to anticipate their movements, reading their tells and reacting in split seconds. His Wraith Cloak saved him more than once, its brief invisibility allowing him to evade attacks that would have been fatal.Each kill brought a chime, each chime a boost to his proficiency.---[Stealth Proficiency: +50 ¡ú (Level 3: 185/300)] [Backstab Proficiency: +50 ¡ú (Level 3: 185/300)] [Poison Dart Proficiency: +30 ¡ú (85/100)] ---But the trial wasn''t just testing his combat skills. It was testing his endurance, his focus, his will to survive. The Soul Drain ability of the Revenants sapped his stamina with every near-miss, forcing him to fight smarter, not harder.---### The Shadow WardenThe final wave was different. The ground shook violently, and the obelisk at the center of the arena began to crack. From its depths emerged the Shadow Warden¡ªa towering figure clad in obsidian armor, its eyes glowing with a cold, calculating light. In its hand, it wielded a massive greatsword that seemed to drink in the light around it.A system prompt appeared, its text glowing red.---[Shadow Warden] Level: 5 Abilities: - Void Strike: A devastating slash that creates a shockwave. - Dark Aura: Drains health from nearby enemies. - Phase Shift: Can become intangible for short periods. ---Raven''s heart pounded, but his mind was calm. This was the moment he had been preparing for. He adjusted his grip on his dagger, the Wraith Cloak settling around him like a second skin.The Warden moved first, its greatsword slicing through the air with terrifying speed. Raven barely dodged, the shockwave from the Void Strike sending him stumbling. He retaliated with a Poison Dart, but the Warden''s Phase Shift ability rendered it useless.The battle was a test of patience and precision. Raven had to wait for the perfect moment to strike, using the Warden''s attacks against it. He baited the Warden into using Void Strike, then darted in close while it recovered. His dagger found a gap in the armor, and the Warden roared in fury.---### The Final BlowThe Warden''s health was dwindling, but so was Raven''s stamina. The Dark Aura was taking its toll, and one misstep would mean the end. Raven''s movements became slower, more deliberate. He couldn''t afford to waste energy.Finally, he saw his opening. The Warden raised its greatsword for another Void Strike, leaving its chest exposed. Raven activated Poison Dart, aiming for the Warden''s glowing core. The projectile struck true, and the Warden staggered.Raven didn''t hesitate. He leaped onto the Warden''s back, driving his dagger into the gap between its helmet and armor. The Warden let out a final, ear-splitting roar before collapsing into a pool of shadow.---### Trial CompleteThe arena fell silent. The swirling clouds above dissipated, revealing a starless void. Raven stood amidst the fading shadows, his breath ragged but his spirit unbroken.The chime rang, louder and more triumphant than before.---[Trial Complete: The Shadow''s Edge] Objective: Survive the onslaught and defeat the Shadow Warden ¨C COMPLETE Bonus Objective: Completed without taking damage ¨C BONUS REWARD UNLOCKED Final Skill Growth: - Stealth Proficiency: +150 ¡ú (Level 3: 35/500) ¡ú MAX - Backstab Proficiency: +150 ¡ú (Level 3: 35/500) ¡ú MAX - Poison Dart Proficiency: +100 ¡ú (85/300) ¡ú MAX ---New Reward Unlocked! [Item Acquired: Shadow''s Edge] A blade materialized before him¡ªa dagger unlike any he had seen before. Its blade was a shard of pure darkness, its hilt wrapped in shadowy tendrils. A new prompt appeared.---[Shadow''s Edge] Type: Weapon (Dagger) Rarity: Rare Stats: - Damage: 45-60 (Shadow) - Critical Strike Chance: +15% - Attack Speed: 1.2 Effects: - Armor Penetration: Ignores 30% of the target''s armor. - Shadow Burn: On hit, has a 25% chance to inflict Shadow Burn, dealing 15 shadow damage per second for 5 seconds. - Soul Harvest: Each kill restores 10% of maximum health and stamina. ---Raven grasped the dagger, feeling its power resonate with his own. It was a weapon worthy of a master assassin.---### Epilogue: The Beginning of the EndAs Raven stood in the now-empty arena, he felt a shift in the air. The trials had tested him, pushed him to his limits, but they had also revealed his true potential. He was no longer just a survivor. He was a force to be reckoned with.But as he sheathed the Shadow''s Edge, he couldn''t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning. The system had chosen him for a reason, and the trials were just the first step.Somewhere, in the depths of the void, something stirred. A presence, ancient and malevolent, had taken notice.The hunt was far from over.


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 Chapter 20 the watcher

    Raven''s muscles tensed. His instincts, honed through countless battles, screamed at him to move¡ªto flee, to fight, to do something. But he didn''t.Not yet.The voice had come from everywhere and nowhere all at once, resonating through the ruins like a whisper carried on the wind. It wasn''t the mechanical tone of the system. It wasn''t some pre-recorded event trigger.This was something different.Something alive.Raven slowly turned, scanning the shadows that curled around the crumbling stone structures. His grip on Shadow''s Edge remained firm, his stance balanced¡ªready.Then, movement.A ripple in the air, just beyond the edge of his vision. The moment he focused on it, it was gone, like a mirage dissolving in the heat. But the weight in the air only grew, pressing against him like an unseen force.Then¡ªlaughter.Low. Amused. Cold.


    The Watcher''s Revelation


    The ruins stood silent. The weight of the Watcher''s presence pressed down on Raven, but it wasn''t just power this time.


    It was knowledge.


    Then, the Watcher laughed.


    Not a soft chuckle. Not an amused scoff.


    A deep, hollow laugh, like an abyss echoing its own amusement. It reverberated through the shattered stone, sinking into the very air itself. The shadows that clung to the ruins seemed to ripple in response, as if they too found amusement in whatever the Watcher had just realized.


    ---


    "Ha¡­ Ha ha¡­ Ah, now this is interesting."


    ---


    Raven''s grip tightened around Shadow''s Edge. His instincts screamed at him¡ªthis wasn''t just some ancient being testing him. This wasn''t just another powerful entity hidden within the system''s rules.


    The Watcher knew.


    It tilted its head, its void-like face unreadable, but Raven could feel the gaze piercing through him.


    A cold, suffocating certainty settled in his chest. This wasn''t just an encounter¡ªit was a revelation. A shift in the very foundation of his existence.


    ---


    "Tell me, little shade¡ªwhy did the gods send you back?"


    ---


    Raven felt his breath hitch for the first time.


    How? How could it know?


    The words sank into him like daggers, each syllable unraveling the fragile certainty he had built around his purpose. His mind raced. He had never spoken of it. The system had never acknowledged it. Even he had barely begun to piece together the truth of his own existence.


    Yet, this thing¡ªthis ancient Watcher¡ªhad seen straight through him.


    He didn''t answer.


    The Watcher hummed, as if amused by his silence. The sound carried a strange weight, like the shifting of an unseen cosmos.


    ---


    "Ah¡­ do you not know? Or do you simply fear the answer?"


    ---


    Raven didn''t move. Didn''t react. But the Watcher leaned closer, its massive form looming over him.


    Its presence was suffocating. Not in the way of an overwhelming enemy, but in the way of something far beyond his understanding.


    Something that had seen truths he had yet to grasp.


    ---


    "What terrible fate awaits that they would break their own laws?"


    ---


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    Its voice was filled with mockery, as if the very idea of divine intervention was laughable.


    Raven''s fingers twitched around the hilt of his blade. It wasn''t a conscious motion¡ªjust the body''s instinct to ready itself when confronted with something that should not be.


    Then, the shadows around them stirred. The ruins seemed darker, the air heavier. The weight of unseen knowledge pressed against Raven''s thoughts.


    And yet, the Watcher did nothing.


    It only watched.


    ---


    The Watcher straightened, shaking its head, as if the conversation had already begun to bore it.


    But then, something changed.


    A single thought burned into Raven''s mind.


    The gods sent him back.


    He had assumed it was for a purpose¡ªhis purpose. Some grand destiny, a second chance, a test of strength or will.


    But what if he was wrong?


    The realization struck harder than any blade. His entire journey, every battle, every near-death experience¡ªwas it all just a game to them?


    A pawn.


    That''s all he was in their eyes. A piece on their board. Moved, sacrificed, returned only when it suited them.


    His breath came slower, his grip on Shadow''s Edge loosening.


    He had fought. He had bled. He had suffered.


    And for what?


    His voice, when it finally came, was hoarse.


    ---


    "How do I escape from them?"


    ---


    For the first time, the Watcher stilled.


    Its amusement did not fade, but something else flickered beneath its void-like gaze.


    Interest.


    The shadows around it shifted unnaturally, curling and twisting, as if the very fabric of reality warped in response.


    The Watcher narrowed its eyes.


    ---


    "You are interesting."


    ---


    Its voice held something new. Not just mockery, not just amusement¡ªcuriosity.


    It leaned in, the weight of its presence suffocating, pressing down like an unseen force. The air around them crackled, like something ancient stirring.


    Raven held his ground, but his heart pounded.


    The Watcher studied him for a long moment before speaking again.


    ---


    "Escape? Oh, little shade¡­ do you think it is so simple?"


    ---


    Its voice was almost amused. Almost pitying.


    The air seemed to tremble. The ruins, once merely ancient, now felt like they existed in two realities at once¡ªone in the world Raven knew, and one in the world beyond.


    ---


    "The gods have bound you. Your fate is written. The system itself bends around their will."


    ---


    The shadows rippled again. A cold whisper crawled against Raven''s mind, something deeper than the Watcher''s voice alone.


    A truth.


    A horrible, undeniable truth.


    ---


    "You are already trapped."


    ---


    Raven''s stomach twisted. He had expected an answer. Some hidden path, some loophole.


    But this?


    He clenched his fists.


    ---


    "There has to be a way."


    ---


    The Watcher let out a slow, amused hum.


    It raised one massive hand, and the air itself cracked.


    Not visibly, not in any way the system would recognize, but Raven felt it.


    A crack in something greater.


    A crack in fate.


    ---


    "Perhaps."


    ---


    The Watcher''s form began to dissolve, vanishing back into the ruins. But before it disappeared entirely, its voice echoed once more.


    A whisper that carried the weight of something inevitable.


    ---


    "The gods stand at Level 300. You, little shade, have never surpassed Level 200."


    ---


    Raven''s breath caught in his throat.


    His highest level before death had been 200.


    A limit he had never broken. A ceiling he had never even thought to question.


    The gods¡­ they were at 300?


    His chest tightened.


    It wasn''t enough.


    Even if he clawed his way back to his former strength, even if he reached his peak again¡­ it wouldn''t matter.


    At Level 200, he was still a pawn.


    To survive, to break free¡­


    He had to reach 300.


    The weight of that realization settled over him like a crushing tide.


    But then¡ª


    The Watcher''s voice cut through his thoughts.


    ---


    "You misunderstand, little shade. The gods are not just Level 300.


    They are Tier 7."


    ---


    Everything stopped.


    Raven''s heart. His breath. His very thoughts.


    Tier 7.


    His mind struggled to process it. To comprehend it.


    He had always thought Level 200 was the peak of mortals. That was where the strongest stood, where he had stood before his death. He had believed that the gods were just¡­ stronger. A step above.


    But Tiers were something else entirely.


    Each Tier wasn''t just a power increase¡ªit was a fundamental shift in existence. A complete restructuring of reality itself.


    Tier 1 mortals struggled for survival.


    Tier 2 warriors ruled kingdoms.


    Tier 3 legends shaped the world.


    Tier 4 beings defied natural law.


    Tier 5 entities controlled forces beyond comprehension.


    Tier 6 figures could create.


    And Tier 7?


    Tier 7 was divinity.


    A vast, uncrossable gap.


    Raven stood at Tier 3.


    Even if he reached Level 300¡­


    It wouldn''t be enough.


    The Watcher''s Gift


    The ruins remained silent long after the Watcher had vanished, but its presence still lingered. The weight of its words pressed against Raven''s mind like chains of knowledge he could never unlearn.


    Tier 7.


    He had never truly understood what it meant to defy the gods. Until now.


    But as the silence stretched, something shifted.


    A ripple in the air. The shadows stirred, coiling and unraveling, and before Raven could react¡ª


    A notification appeared.


    ---


    [The Watcher has acknowledged you.]


    You are seen. You are marked. You are interesting.


    A trickster has no fixed face. A shadow has no true form. The gods may watch, but even they cannot track what does not exist.


    You have received: [Trickster''s Mask]


    ---


    A small, weightless object materialized in his hands.


    The Trickster''s Mask.


    Raven lifted it, studying the smooth, dark surface. It had no distinct features, only a blank, shifting void where a face should be. A mask without an identity¡ªbecause it could become any identity.


    ---


    [Trickster''s Mask]


    Type: Relic


    Effect: Grants the ability to assume a false identity, including altering name, class, and appearance. Can bypass certain system tracking features.


    Cooldown: none


    ---


    Raven''s grip tightened around the mask.


    This was more than just an item.


    This was freedom.


    If the gods had marked him as a pawn, then this was his first step in breaking their control. With this, he could disappear.


    But before he could fully process the implications, another notification flashed.


    ---


    [System Reward Granted]


    Rare Chest (1x) obtained


    EXP gained: +30,000


    Level Up!


    LVL 1 ¡ú LVL 3


    ---


    Raven''s eyes widened slightly.


    30,000 EXP.


    In a game that had just launched, most players were still struggling to hit Level 2. Some had been grinding nonstop for hours and had barely gained enough experience to reach the next stage.


    Yet in an instant, Raven had jumped from Level 1 to Level 3.


    If an average player needed four days of grinding to gain that much EXP, then what he had just received was nothing short of game-breaking.


    And yet, the system had given it to him without hesitation.


    Because of the Watcher.


    Because he was different.


    He exhaled slowly, his mind racing.


    The gods had already stacked the game against him. If they found out what the Watcher had given him, would they intervene? Would they strip him of his rewards?


    No.


    Not yet.


    If the system had accepted it, then this was real.


    And he wasn''t going to waste it.


    His gaze drifted back to the Trickster''s Mask, the weight of his next move settling over him.


    The gods had their plans.


    But now?


    He had his own.

 Chapter 21 opening and stats

    Raven exhaled, his fingers tracing the smooth surface of the Trickster''s Mask.


    Everything had changed in an instant.


    Level 3. A Rare Chest. An item that could let him slip past the system''s watchful eye.


    This wasn''t luck. This wasn''t a reward.


    This was a test.


    The Watcher had given him the tools¡ªbut now, it was up to him to use them.


    He glanced at his status.


    ---


    [Raven]


    Level: 3


    EXP: 0 / 50,000


    Stats Available: 6


    Abilities: [Stealth (Lv. 3)], [Backstab (Lv. 3)], [Poison Dart (Lv. 12]


    Equipment: Shadow''s Edge, Trickster''s Mask


    ---


    His level had jumped, but the gap had also widened. 50,000 EXP to reach Level 4.


    The grind only got harder from here.


    He had to be careful. If other players found out about his level, they''d swarm him. If the gods took notice, they might try to interfere.


    He needed to move fast.


    His first priority? The Rare Chest.


    ---


    Opening the Rare Chest


    Stepping away from the ruins, Raven found a secluded spot beneath a crumbling archway. The area was still empty¡ªmost players were probably stuck grinding low-level mobs near the starter zones.


    He summoned the chest from his inventory.


    A sleek, dark-blue box materialized before him, faintly pulsing with a silver glow. Rare Chests weren''t something new players had access to¡ªmost wouldn''t even see one until they reached Level 10.


    Which meant the loot inside¡­


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    He opened it.


    A golden light flared for a moment before the system notifications appeared.


    ---


    [Rare Chest Opened]


    [Basic Alchemy Potion design (Uncommon) ¨C Restores 50 HP over 10 seconds. Can be used in combat.


    1x [Skill Scroll] (Unidentified)


    ---


    Raven stared at the potion for a moment before clicking his tongue.


    It wasn''t much.


    Basic Alchemy Potions were rare this early in the game, but they were still low-tier healing items. A useful tool, but something that would change his fate. as player are not lvl 3 he had plenty time to make profit from it because this potion can be useful in dungeon so many guilds Will pay lot to obtain this small item.


    His real focus was the Skill Scroll.


    He selected it.


    ---


    [Unidentified Skill Scroll]


    Would you like to reveal the skill?


    [YES] [NO]


    ---


    Without hesitation, he tapped [YES].


    The scroll burned with golden light before dissolving.


    A new skill appeared in his status.


    ---


    [NEW SKILL ACQUIRED!]


    Shadow Cloak (Lv. 1) ¨C For 10 seconds, you become one with the darkness, erasing your presence from detection-based abilities. Cannot be used in direct combat. Cooldown: 60 seconds.


    ---


    Raven''s grip tightened slightly.


    This was¡­ good. Really good.


    Most Stealth-based players relied purely on their class skills to avoid detection, but Shadow Cloak was a hard counter to anything that could reveal hidden targets.


    If someone tried to expose him¡ªhe could vanish completely.


    His power had just taken a small but crucial step forward.


    But it wasn''t enough.


    Level 3 wasn''t enough.


    His next move was clear.


    Raven''s Updated Status & Skills


    ---


    [Raven]


    Level: 3


    EXP: 0 / 50,000


    Stats Available: 6


    Abilities:


    Stealth (Lv. 3) ¨C (0/600 EXP)


    Backstab (Lv. 3) ¨C (0/600 EXP)


    Poison Dart (Lv. 2) ¨C (0/300 EXP)


    Shadow Cloak (Lv. 1) ¨C (0/100 EXP)


    Equipment:


    Weapon: Shadow''s Edge (Starter Dagger)


    Relic: Trickster''s Mask


    Design: basic alchemy design


    ---


    Updated Skill Details


    ---


    [Stealth (Lv. 3)]


    Type: Active


    Effect: Allows the user to blend into shadows, making them undetectable to normal vision. Movement in Stealth mode is 30% faster than base speed.


    Duration: 15 seconds


    Cooldown: 20 seconds


    Detection Resistance: Moderate (Can avoid low-tier detection abilities but high-level players and NPCs may still sense movement.)


    Upgrade Progress: (0/600 EXP)


    Lv. 1 ¡ú Lv. 3 Improvements:


    Duration increased from 10s ¡ú 15s


    Cooldown reduced from 30s ¡ú 20s


    Movement speed bonus increased from 10% ¡ú 30%


    Detection resistance improved


    Stealth is Raven''s core survival skill. At Level 3, it''s already above what most players have at this stage, giving him better mobility and a longer window to act before being revealed.


    ---


    [Backstab (Lv. 3)]


    Type: Attack Skill


    Effect: A precise strike to an enemy''s weak point from behind. Deals 250% weapon damage when attacking from Stealth.


    Bonus Effect: If the target is unaware, the attack has a 50% chance to cause Bleed (deals minor damage over time for 5 seconds).


    Upgrade Progress: (0/600 EXP)


    Lv. 1 ¡ú Lv. 3 Improvements:


    Damage increased from 200% ¡ú 250%


    Bleed chance increased from 30% ¡ú 50%


    Attack speed improved slightly


    Backstab is Raven''s main burst damage ability. At Level 3, it''s strong enough to instantly kill lower-level enemies if he strikes from Stealth. The Bleed effect adds extra damage, making it even deadlier in drawn-out fights.


    ---


    [Poison Dart (Lv. 2)]


    Type: Ranged Attack


    Effect: Fires a poisoned dart at an enemy, dealing minor initial damage and applying Poison (Lv. 2) for 10 seconds.


    Poison Effect: Deals 3% of target''s HP as damage per second.


    Range: 15 meters


    Cooldown: 10 seconds


    Upgrade Progress: (0/300 EXP)


    Lv. 1 ¡ú Lv. 2 Improvements:


    Poison damage increased from 2% ¡ú 3% HP per second


    Range increased from 10m ¡ú 15m


    Cooldown reduced from 15s ¡ú 10s


    Poison Dart is Raven''s only ranged attack, giving him an option to weaken enemies before engaging. Since Poison damage scales off HP, it''s extremely effective against high-health targets.


    ---


    [Shadow Cloak (Lv. 1)]


    Type: Special Stealth


    Effect: For 10 seconds, Raven becomes one with the darkness, erasing his presence from all detection-based abilities. Cannot be used in direct combat.


    Cooldown: 60 seconds


    Upgrade Progress: (0/100 EXP)


    Shadow Cloak is a game-changer in stealth-based combat. While normal Stealth can be countered, this ability completely removes him from detection. It''s best used when escaping or avoiding high-tier enemies that could see through basic Stealth.


    ---


    Overall Assessment


    At Level 3, Raven''s build is shaping into a strong assassin playstyle:


    High burst damage (Backstab Lv. 3)


    Enhanced mobility and stealth (Stealth Lv. 3, Shadow Cloak Lv. 1)


    Poison-based damage-over-time (Poison Dart Lv. 2)


    With Shadow Cloak and Trickster''s Mask, he has an edge over most players by avoiding system tracking.

 Chapter 22 return to viles town

    After 12 real-life hours (equivalent to one in-game day), Raven finally returned to Viles Town from the treacherous Forgotten Trail. Unlike the rest of the players, who were still fumbling through beginner quests, he had just completed a Unique Quest¡ªone that no one else had even discovered yet.


    As he walked through the streets, he noticed something:


    Most players were still Level 1, running back and forth between quest NPCs.


    A few of the more dedicated elites had managed to hit Level 2, standing out with slightly better gear.


    But he was the only Level 3 player in the entire town.


    The weight of that realization sank in. He wasn''t just ahead¡ªhe was far ahead.


    ---


    The Forgotten Trail ¨C A Unique Questline


    Unlike the standard quests available to new players, Forgotten Trail was a hidden, solo questline triggered by accident¡ªor by the sharpest of players.


    Raven remembered the conversation clearly. Unlike the other players who ignored the beggar, he had stopped¡ªnot out of pity, but out of curiosity. Something about the man''s presence felt off, like he didn''t quite belong in the town.


    The beggar hadn''t asked for money. Instead, he had asked a question.


    > "Tell me, traveler¡ªwhat is more valuable? Gold, power, or knowledge?"


    Most players would have answered gold or power. But Raven had hesitated, thinking deeper.


    > "Knowledge," he had said finally. "Because with the right knowledge, you can gain the other two."


    The beggar had smiled, eyes glinting in the dim alleyway.


    > "A wise answer. Then let me give you knowledge in return¡ªthe past lingers where no feet dare tread. Seek the door that does not open."


    And then, just like that, the beggar had vanished.


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    No logout animation. No NPC walking away. One second he was there, the next he was gone, as if he had never existed.


    Raven had searched for him afterward, even asked around, but no one else had seen him. The NPC wasn''t part of any known questline.


    Now, standing in the same alley where they had spoken, Raven found nothing but empty crates and discarded trash.


    He''s really gone.


    But the beggar''s words still echoed in his mind. Twelve lie hidden in the shadows.


    If he wanted to find the next Forgotten Trail, he had to figure out where the next keeper was.


    Garrett hadn''t always been a gatekeeper.


    When Mortal Online first launched, he was just another street thug lurking in the alleyways, preying on clueless Level 1 players who had just created their characters. His favorite tactic? Ambushing fresh spawns, demanding a few copper, and beating them down if they refused.


    Raven had been one of his first targets.


    But unlike most, Raven had escaped.


    Back then, with nothing but starter gear and no real combat skills, he had relied on pure instinct¡ªdodging, weaving, and sprinting away before Garrett could land a clean hit. Most players weren''t that lucky. They either paid up or got knocked out and sent back to the respawn point.


    But then things changed.


    At some point, Garrett stopped lurking in the alleys and moved to the town gates. Now, instead of robbing a few unlucky players at a time, he had set up a full-blown toll system.


    And worse? He had raised his price.


    What used to be a few copper coins had turned into twenty copper¡ªa ridiculous amount for new players. Most couldn''t afford it, meaning they were trapped in Viles Town, stuck grinding beginner quests while Garrett got rich.


    Raven leaned against a wall, watching the scene unfold.


    This isn''t just about money. Something else is going on here.


    Garrett was keeping people inside.


    But why?


    Raven didn''t realize it, but Garrett wasn''t just running a shakedown¡ªhe was waiting for him.


    The day Raven had escaped that first ambush, Garrett''s reputation among the town''s thugs had taken a serious hit. Word had spread fast: some newbie slipped through his fingers. For a guy like Garrett, whose entire persona was built on being an unbeatable enforcer, that was a humiliation he couldn''t afford.


    At first, he had tried to track Raven down in the alleys, but the town was too crowded. Too chaotic. And Raven was too slippery.


    So Garrett changed tactics.


    He stopped hunting players one by one and took control of the town gates instead.


    At first, it was just about making money, but deep down, Garrett had a bigger reason:


    He was waiting.


    Waiting for that one player who had humiliated him.


    Waiting for Raven to walk through the gates.


    So he could get his revenge.


    Raven smirked as he leaned against the wall, watching Garrett shake down another group of frustrated players.


    In his past life, this situation had played out very differently.


    Back then, it wasn''t a solo player like him who took Garrett down¡ªit was a third-rate guild called Blood Riders.


    Garrett had made the mistake of robbing one of their members, thinking they were just another weak newbie. But instead of taking the loss, Blood Riders returned in force. Twenty of them, all barely Level 2, had surrounded Garrett and brought him down through sheer numbers.


    They won¡ªbut they paid the price.


    Seven of their members died in the fight, and because of the town''s early-game mechanics, that meant lost experience, broken gear, and a huge setback. It should have been a victory.


    But what happened next shook the entire town.


    With Garrett gone, a new thug took his place¡ªhis older brother, a Level 5 menace with far more brutal tactics. Unlike Garrett, who at least had a system to his robbery, this guy was a mad dog.


    He didn''t demand money.


    He just attacked everyone he saw.


    Players flooded the forums, furious at Blood Riders for breaking the game balance. But no one dared to fight them. Blood Riders was a player-hunting guild, a group that thrived on making enemies. If someone crossed them, they wouldn''t stop at just killing in-game characters¡ªthey''d make their target''s life miserable.


    That meant no one challenged them.


    The result? Viles Town became a nightmare for new players.


    And now, Raven had a choice.


    If he killed Garrett here and now, history might repeat itself.


    But if he found another way, he could change the course of the game entirely.

 Chapter 23 good assassin

    Raven smirked. Most players would have avoided this chaos, fearing the disruption it would bring. But to him, chaos was an opportunity.If he killed Garrett and his Level 5 brother appeared, Viles Town would become a warzone. Players would be forced to fight, guilds would clash, and prices for gear, potions, and services would skyrocket.And who would be sitting on the sidelines, raking in the profits?Him.With everyone distracted, he could level up in peace while also selling alchemy potions at inflated prices. Healing items, buffs, antidotes¡ªeverything would be in high demand.Now, he just needed to eliminate Garrett and let the chaos begin.


    Raven''s smirk widened as he watched Garrett extort another group of frustrated players at the town gate. Everyone saw him as an obstacle¡ªa thug who needed to be dealt with. But to Raven, Garrett was the key to something much bigger.If he played this right, Viles Town would be turned upside down, and Raven would be the one profiting from the madness.The Plan: Kill Garrett, Summon the Mad DogIn his past life, Garrett''s death had been an accident¡ªan overreaction from a third-rate guild. But Raven wasn''t leaving this to chance. He would kill Garrett intentionally, knowing exactly what would happen next.Garrett''s older brother would appear.A Level 5 enforcer, stronger, more aggressive, and without any interest in money. Unlike Garrett, who at least gave players a choice¡ªpay or fight¡ªhis brother attacked everyone on sight. He was less of a thug and more of a storm of violence, cutting through anyone unlucky enough to cross his path.The moment he arrived, Viles Town would descend into chaos.


    Raven moved with purpose. A silent kill meant precision¡ªno mess, no witnesses, just a body left behind for the system to process naturally. He needed the perfect location, the right timing, and a clean escape.


    Raven knew that assassinations weren''t just about the strike¡ªthey were about control. He needed to dictate where and how Garrett died, ensuring no interference, no witnesses, and most importantly, a clean escape. A bad kill meant unwanted attention, and in a town like this, attention could be fatal.


    Scouting the Kill Zone


    The streets of Viles Town were lively, filled with merchants, beggars, and rowdy adventurers looking for trouble. The town''s central square, where Garrett often loitered, was far too public. The tavern, where he did most of his drinking, was a death trap¡ªtoo many eyes, too many possible interferences.


    Raven needed a place where sound wouldn''t travel, where shadows provided cover, and most importantly, where Garrett''s body wouldn''t be found immediately.


    He moved through the town with calculated steps, observing every alley, every side street. Some were too exposed¡ªlined with broken carts and occupied by vagrants. Others were too deep in the slums, where the presence of a dead body might not even register as unusual. That wasn''t good either¡ªhe wanted Garrett''s corpse to be discovered, but only after he was long gone.


    Then, he found it.


    A narrow alley just behind the Black Lantern Tavern. It had all the right elements:


    Walls high enough to trap sound. The alley was squeezed between two old stone buildings, their walls close enough to prevent noise from carrying. Even a muffled struggle wouldn''t be heard from the street.


    Only one entrance visible from the main road. If someone saw Garrett enter, they''d assume he was just relieving himself or handling some shady business.


    Crates and barrels for cover. If Raven needed to hide, he had plenty of options. If he needed to escape, he could vault over the barrels and scale a low section of the wall to disappear onto the rooftops.


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    A single flickering lantern. Light was minimal, casting long, shifting shadows¡ªperfect for blending in.


    This was the spot. Now, he just needed to bring Garrett here.


    Predicting Garrett''s Movements


    Garrett wasn''t a cautious man. He thrived on intimidation, assuming no one in Viles Town had the guts to challenge him. That arrogance made him predictable.


    Every night, his routine was the same:


    1. Drink at the Black Lantern. He''d be loud, harassing patrons and shoving around his underlings.


    2. Step outside when something annoyed him. Whether it was a spilled drink, a bad dice roll, or some drunk mouthing off, Garrett had a habit of storming out to handle things personally.


    3. Chase after trouble if it involved his money or pride. If someone stole from him or insulted him, he wouldn''t hesitate to follow them into the dark.


    Raven could use that. He didn''t need to force Garrett into the alley¡ªhe just needed to suggest it, letting the thug''s own instincts do the work.


    Setting the Trap


    Now came the real preparation. To get Garrett alone, he had to manipulate the right pieces.


    A good assassination wasn''t just about killing¡ªit was about controlling the enemy''s actions before the strike. Garrett had to enter the alley willingly, without hesitation or suspicion. That meant baiting him with something he couldn''t ignore.


    Raven had two things working in his favor:


    1. Garrett''s short temper. He was a thug who thrived on dominance. If something challenged his authority, he wouldn''t let it slide.


    2. His greed. If he saw a chance for easy money, he''d take it without thinking.


    A good assassination started long before the blade was drawn. It began with careful planning, controlling the enemy''s environment, and ensuring they made mistakes before the strike ever came.Raven''s first move wasn''t the kill itself¡ªit was making Garrett easier to manipulate. A man like him, who thrived on power and intimidation, needed to be put in a state where he was reacting instead of thinking. That meant throwing him off balance, forcing him into a situation where he would act on impulse rather than caution.And the best way to do that? Disrupt his night.---Scouting the TargetRaven had been watching Garrett for nearly an hour from a concealed perch near the Black Lantern Tavern, an establishment as filthy and dangerous as the man himself. The air reeked of sweat, stale beer, and the occasional whiff of blood¡ªan expected side effect of a place that saw more brawls than actual business.Inside, Garrett held court like a king among rats. He sat at a wide table near the back, surrounded by his lackeys. His loud, boisterous laughter cut through the noise of the tavern, the sound of a man who believed himself untouchable.He shoved a passing barmaid out of his way, barked orders for more drinks, and slammed a fist on the table whenever one of his men said something he didn''t like. His presence infected the space¡ªmost of the patrons gave his group a wide berth, wisely choosing not to get involved.Raven noted everything:Garrett''s seating position¡ªback to the wall, view of the entrance, a predictable but effective move for a paranoid thug.The number of men with him¡ªfive, all armed, though most were too deep into their drinks to be fully aware.His drinking habits¡ªheavily indulging but still controlled, not yet drunk enough to lose caution.But one of his men was a different story.---Selecting the TargetRaven''s eyes settled on a younger thug, seated close to Garrett, clearly eager to impress him. The kid¡ªprobably no older than twenty¡ªlaughed too hard at Garrett''s jokes, nodded too eagerly at every word, and drank far more than his tolerance allowed.Perfect.A man trying too hard to fit in was predictable, desperate, and easy to manipulate. He''d be Raven''s tool for disruption.Raven reached into his belt pouch, fingers brushing against a set of razor-thin throwing darts. Each was coated with a weak paralytic poison¡ªnothing deadly, just enough to make someone lightheaded, sluggish, and disoriented.One dart, one perfectly timed strike, and chaos would follow.---The StrikeRaven adjusted his stance, hidden in the shadows near a wooden support beam. From here, he had a clear shot¡ªjust enough distance for precision, but close enough that the dart wouldn''t lose effectiveness.He exhaled slowly. Focused. Released.The dart whispered through the air, barely visible in the dim tavern light. It found its mark just below the thug''s ribs, slipping past the fabric of his tunic without drawing attention.For a moment, nothing happened.Then, the effects began to set in.---Chaos UnfoldsThe young thug twitched, his face suddenly tightening in confusion. His fingers trembled against the rim of his mug, and then¡ª his grip failed.Ale sloshed over the table. The heavy wooden mug tumbled, knocking over Garrett''s own drink, spilling it across the table and into the brute''s lap.A hush fell over the immediate area.Garrett''s expression darkened in an instant."You stupid bastard!" he roared, his chair scraping loudly against the floor as he lunged forward. His meaty fist slammed down on the table, rattling dishes and sending loose coins skittering to the floor.The poisoned thug tried to speak¡ªhis lips moved, but the words slurred. His vision swam, legs suddenly unsteady as he tried to rise, only to stumble into a chair instead.Garrett didn''t care why."You can''t even hold your damn drink?" Garrett snarled, his voice filled with disgust. "I ought to break your damn nose!"The thug barely managed to stay upright, blinking in sluggish confusion as his body fought against the poison''s effects.Garrett had no patience for weakness. He seized the younger man by the collar, lifting him with ease before shoving him toward the exit."I said, get the hell outside before I put you in the ground!"The crowd gave them space, some looking amused, others wisely keeping their heads down. The thug stumbled through the door, barely able to stay on his feet.Garrett followed, still grumbling about his useless underlings.---Raven''s Plan UnfoldsPerfect.Garrett was already frustrated, his blood boiling from the minor embarrassment. He was off-balance, pissed off, and less cautious than before.And now, he was outside.Exactly where Raven needed him to be.

 Chapter 24 bait and hook

    Now that Garrett was agitated, Raven needed to lead him exactly where he wanted¡ªinto the alley behind the tavern, where no one would be watching.A direct confrontation wouldn''t work. Garrett was a brute, but he wasn''t completely brainless. He wouldn''t chase after a shadow without reason. Instead, Raven had to exploit one of Garrett''s biggest weaknesses¡ªhis greed.The key was making the alley feel like his idea rather than a trap.---Setting the BaitRaven moved swiftly through the backstreets, navigating the narrow passageways behind the Black Lantern Tavern. The area was filthy and dimly lit, illuminated only by the occasional flickering lantern. Trash piled up near the walls, the stench of stale beer and rotting food hanging in the air.Perfect. No one would come here unless they had a reason.He removed a coin pouch from his belt¡ªnot his own, but one he had prepared earlier. The leather was worn, giving it the look of something lost in a scuffle. Inside, Raven placed a few glinting gold coins¡ªjust enough to make it tempting but not so many that it seemed too good to be true.He positioned it carefully, placing it at the edge of a wooden crate near the alley''s entrance. It wasn''t just lying in the open¡ªthat would be suspicious. Instead, it looked like someone had hurriedly stashed it there, perhaps after mugging a victim.A subtle but important psychological trick.If the pouch were lying in the middle of the road, Garrett might suspect a trap.But half-hidden? That suggested someone tried to conceal it, meaning there might be more to steal nearby¡ªor worse, someone was getting away with something in his territory.Either way, Garrett would take the bait.---Why This Would WorkGarrett wasn''t just greedy¡ªhe was territorial. If he thought someone had stolen money in "his town," it wouldn''t sit right with him. He''d want to find out who dared to act without his permission.The bait played on two things:1. Immediate reward ¨C Free money sitting right there, waiting to be claimed.2. Pride and control ¨C If someone was robbing people in his domain, he''d want to punish them.Raven didn''t need Garrett to think too hard. He just needed him curious enough to investigate.Now, all he had to do was wait.---The Moment of DecisionGarrett stormed out of the tavern, still seething from the embarrassment inside. The poisoned thug collapsed nearby, still struggling to regain control of his limbs. Garrett barely spared him a glance."Useless piece of shit," he muttered, rolling his shoulders, trying to shake off his frustration.Then, his eyes caught the glint of gold.He slowed, gaze snapping to the pouch near the crate. His expression shifted¡ªanger fading into greed.He stepped closer, boots crunching against the gravel.His mind worked through the situation:Someone dropped or hid this here.Which meant someone had more.And whoever they were, they weren''t expecting Garrett to find it.A smirk spread across his face.Raven, watching from above, tightened his grip on his dagger.Garrett bent down, reaching for the pouch.Just as planned.


    Garrett had taken the bait.


    Now, Raven had to make sure he stepped fully into the trap¡ªfar enough into the alley that no one would see, with his guard completely down.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Killing a brute like Garrett wasn''t just about landing a clean strike; it was about ensuring he had no chance to fight back or escape.


    The perfect assassination wasn''t a duel. It was a single, decisive moment where the target never even realized they were already dead.


    ---


    Garrett Steps In


    Garrett''s fingers closed around the coin pouch, lifting it with a satisfied grunt. The weight felt right¡ªjust enough silver to be worth pocketing.


    He glanced around, checking for anyone nearby. The street behind him was empty¡ªmost of the tavern''s patrons were still inside, drinking and brawling. The poisoned thug still lay groaning near the door, too weak to do anything.


    Good. No witnesses.


    But greed wasn''t enough to pull Garrett further into the alley.


    Raven needed one last push.


    ---


    The Final Lure


    Hidden above, perched on a wooden beam, Raven reached into his pouch and tossed another silver coin further into the alley.


    The small clink of metal on stone echoed faintly.


    Garrett froze, his head snapping toward the sound.


    Another coin?


    His smirk widened. He stepped forward into the alley, curiosity piqued. If someone had been careless enough to drop one pouch, maybe they had more.


    He took another step. Then another.


    ---


    Raven Strikes


    The moment Garrett passed the halfway point of the alley¡ªout of sight from the street but still unaware of the danger¡ªRaven moved.


    A shadow among shadows, he descended silently from his perch, dagger already in hand.


    Garrett''s instincts flared too late.


    He sensed something¡ªmaybe a whisper of movement, a shift in the air¡ªbut before he could turn, Raven was already behind him.


    A flash of silver.


    Raven''s dagger plunged into the base of Garrett''s neck, right where the spine met the skull. The blow was precise, surgical, severing vital nerves in an instant.


    Garrett''s body jerked, his hands twitching. His mouth opened, but no sound came out¡ªhis lungs failed to obey.


    His knees buckled. His body crumpled.


    By the time he hit the ground, he was already dead.


    ---


    Securing the Kill


    Raven wasted no time. He crouched over the body, wiped his dagger clean, and checked for valuables. He wasn''t after silver¡ªhe needed information.


    A quick search of Garrett''s pockets revealed:


    A crude map of Viles Town, marked with key locations.


    A small ledger¡ªlikely a record of debts, bribes, or deals.


    A signet ring, possibly a symbol of his gang''s rank.


    Then came the loot:


    1 gold coin


    2 silver coins


    Raven pocketed them all.


    Then, with practiced ease, he dragged Garrett''s corpse deeper into the alley, concealing it behind stacked crates. In the dim light, no one would notice it for hours¡ªmaybe even until morning.


    By then, Viles Town would already be in chaos.


    Garrett''s men would find out their boss was missing. His stronger, more dangerous brother would take control.


    And while they tore the town apart looking for answers, Raven would be free to grow stronger in the shadows.


    The assassination was complete.


    Now, it was time to reap the rewards.

 Chapter 25 going to auction

    Now that Garrett was agitated, Raven needed to lead him exactly where he wanted¡ªinto the alley behind the tavern, where no one would be watching.A direct confrontation wouldn''t work. Garrett was a brute, but he wasn''t completely brainless. He wouldn''t chase after a shadow without reason. Instead, Raven had to exploit one of Garrett''s biggest weaknesses¡ªhis greed.The key was making the alley feel like his idea rather than a trap.---Setting the BaitRaven moved swiftly through the backstreets, navigating the narrow passageways behind the Black Lantern Tavern. The area was filthy and dimly lit, illuminated only by the occasional flickering lantern. Trash piled up near the walls, the stench of stale beer and rotting food hanging in the air.Perfect. No one would come here unless they had a reason.He removed a coin pouch from his belt¡ªnot his own, but one he had prepared earlier. The leather was worn, giving it the look of something lost in a scuffle. Inside, Raven placed a few glinting gold coins¡ªjust enough to make it tempting but not so many that it seemed too good to be true.He positioned it carefully, placing it at the edge of a wooden crate near the alley''s entrance. It wasn''t just lying in the open¡ªthat would be suspicious. Instead, it looked like someone had hurriedly stashed it there, perhaps after mugging a victim.A subtle but important psychological trick.If the pouch were lying in the middle of the road, Garrett might suspect a trap.But half-hidden? That suggested someone tried to conceal it, meaning there might be more to steal nearby¡ªor worse, someone was getting away with something in his territory.Either way, Garrett would take the bait.---Why This Would WorkGarrett wasn''t just greedy¡ªhe was territorial. If he thought someone had stolen money in "his town," it wouldn''t sit right with him. He''d want to find out who dared to act without his permission.The bait played on two things:1. Immediate reward ¨C Free money sitting right there, waiting to be claimed.2. Pride and control ¨C If someone was robbing people in his domain, he''d want to punish them.Raven didn''t need Garrett to think too hard. He just needed him curious enough to investigate.Now, all he had to do was wait.---The Moment of DecisionGarrett stormed out of the tavern, still seething from the embarrassment inside. The poisoned thug collapsed nearby, still struggling to regain control of his limbs. Garrett barely spared him a glance."Useless piece of shit," he muttered, rolling his shoulders, trying to shake off his frustration.Then, his eyes caught the glint of gold.He slowed, gaze snapping to the pouch near the crate. His expression shifted¡ªanger fading into greed.He stepped closer, boots crunching against the gravel.His mind worked through the situation:Someone dropped or hid this here.Which meant someone had more.And whoever they were, they weren''t expecting Garrett to find it.A smirk spread across his face.Raven, watching from above, tightened his grip on his dagger.Garrett bent down, reaching for the pouch.Just as planned.


    Garrett had taken the bait.


    Now, Raven had to make sure he stepped fully into the trap¡ªfar enough into the alley that no one would see, with his guard completely down.


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    Killing a brute like Garrett wasn''t just about landing a clean strike; it was about ensuring he had no chance to fight back or escape.


    The perfect assassination wasn''t a duel. It was a single, decisive moment where the target never even realized they were already dead.


    ---


    Garrett Steps In


    Garrett''s fingers closed around the coin pouch, lifting it with a satisfied grunt. The weight felt right¡ªjust enough silver to be worth pocketing.


    He glanced around, checking for anyone nearby. The street behind him was empty¡ªmost of the tavern''s patrons were still inside, drinking and brawling. The poisoned thug still lay groaning near the door, too weak to do anything.


    Good. No witnesses.


    But greed wasn''t enough to pull Garrett further into the alley.


    Raven needed one last push.


    ---


    The Final Lure


    Hidden above, perched on a wooden beam, Raven reached into his pouch and tossed another silver coin further into the alley.


    The small clink of metal on stone echoed faintly.


    Garrett froze, his head snapping toward the sound.


    Another coin?


    His smirk widened. He stepped forward into the alley, curiosity piqued. If someone had been careless enough to drop one pouch, maybe they had more.


    He took another step. Then another.


    ---


    Raven Strikes


    The moment Garrett passed the halfway point of the alley¡ªout of sight from the street but still unaware of the danger¡ªRaven moved.


    A shadow among shadows, he descended silently from his perch, dagger already in hand.


    Garrett''s instincts flared too late.


    He sensed something¡ªmaybe a whisper of movement, a shift in the air¡ªbut before he could turn, Raven was already behind him.


    A flash of silver.


    Raven''s dagger plunged into the base of Garrett''s neck, right where the spine met the skull. The blow was precise, surgical, severing vital nerves in an instant.


    Garrett''s body jerked, his hands twitching. His mouth opened, but no sound came out¡ªhis lungs failed to obey.


    His knees buckled. His body crumpled.


    By the time he hit the ground, he was already dead.


    ---


    Securing the Kill


    Raven wasted no time. He crouched over the body, wiped his dagger clean, and checked for valuables. He wasn''t after silver¡ªhe needed information.


    A quick search of Garrett''s pockets revealed:


    A crude map of Viles Town, marked with key locations.


    A small ledger¡ªlikely a record of debts, bribes, or deals.


    A signet ring, possibly a symbol of his gang''s rank.


    Then came the loot:


    1 gold coin


    2 silver coins


    Raven pocketed them all.


    Then, with practiced ease, he dragged Garrett''s corpse deeper into the alley, concealing it behind stacked crates. In the dim light, no one would notice it for hours¡ªmaybe even until morning.


    By then, Viles Town would already be in chaos.


    Garrett''s men would find out their boss was missing. His stronger, more dangerous brother would take control.


    And while they tore the town apart looking for answers, Raven would be free to grow stronger in the shadows.


    The assassination was complete.


    Now, it was time to reap the rewards.

 Chapter 26 guilds dog

    Alex grinned as he stepped away from the auction terminal, gripping the Red Fang Ledger. He had done it. The guild would be pleased. Sophie would be pleased.


    Without hesitation, he pulled up his guild interface and sent a direct call.


    Connection established.


    A moment later, her voice came through¡ªcalm, sharp, and cold.


    "Report."


    Alex straightened instinctively, like a soldier before his commander. He was not her equal. He was her guild''s dog.


    "I got it," he said quickly. "Five gold, just like you wanted."


    Silence.


    Then a soft hum of approval. "Good. Bring it back. We''ll decide how to use it later."


    Alex smirked. He had done his job. Maybe Sophie would finally acknowledge him. Maybe, just maybe, he''d earn more than her usual cold indifference.


    As he turned to leave, his eyes flicked across the auction board¡ª


    [Silver Alchemy Furnace]


    Bidding Price: 2 Gold


    Buyout Price: 8 Gold


    A high-tier crafting station. Something that could mass-produce potions.


    Something Dark Solution could use to control the alchemy market.


    His fingers moved before he could think, switching back to the call.


    "Hey, Sophie. There''s a Silver Alchemy Furnace on auction. Two gold starting bid, eight gold buyout. Want me to bid?"


    Silence.


    Then, a soft, sharp laugh. Cold. Amused.


    "Bid?" she scoffed. "No. Buy it. Immediately."


    Alex froze. His stomach twisted.


    "I¡­ I only have two gold left."


    Disdain laced her voice instantly. "Then sell something, idiot. What do I even keep you around for?"


    His grip on the ledger tightened.


    She didn''t even hesitate. She didn''t care that he was nearly broke.


    "I-I have healing herbs, but¡ª"


    "Sell all of them. One silver per stack. Now."


    Alex''s heart sank. One silver per stack? That was way below market price.


    It was practically giving them away.


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    He hesitated. Just for a second.


    "Did you not hear me?" Sophie''s voice turned sharp, cutting. "Do it, or get lost."


    The way she said it¡ªlike he was worthless. Like he was replaceable.


    Alex clenched his teeth.


    He had no choice.


    Opening his inventory, he dumped every stack of healing herbs onto the market at one silver each.


    The moment he confirmed the sale, the stacks vanished.


    Players swarmed them instantly, probably laughing at the fool who had undersold premium alchemy materials.


    His gold counter ticked up, but it didn''t feel like a victory.


    It felt like humiliation.


    Still, he did as he was told. Like the good guild dog he was.


    Raven leaned against the back wall of the Auction House, watching the chaos unfold.The Red Fang Ledger had turned the auction floor into a battleground. Nobles hurled insult-laced bids at one another, each determined to claim the prize before someone else could. Players, seeing the potential for blackmail and leverage, were getting involved too, trying to secure the ledger to sell it at a later time.It was exactly the kind of chaos Raven had hoped for.But while everyone else was distracted, something else caught his attention.A massive flood of healing herbs had just hit the market.[Healing Herb ¨C 1 Silver per Stack][Quantity: 200 Stacks]Raven''s eyes narrowed.One silver per stack? That was beyond ridiculous.Healing herbs were a staple for alchemists and combatants alike. Normally, they went for 5 to 7 silver per stack on a slow day, and in a lawless place like Viles Town, where people fought daily, the demand was always high.But this?This was a goldmine.Something clicked in Raven''s mind.He wasn''t the only one who noticed. Some sharp-eyed traders had already started snapping up stacks, likely assuming some fool had accidentally undercut the market.But Raven knew better.This wasn''t just a bad deal. This was an act of pure desperation.And then it hit him.In a few hours, these herbs wouldn''t just be worth 5 silver per stack.They''d be worth 10 silver. Maybe even 15.Because Garrett was dead.And once word got out?Viles Town would explode into chaos.Rival gangs would scramble to fill the power vacuum. The nobles would panic, each fearing that the next assassination target could be them. Players? They''d start fighting in the streets, exploiting the situation for experience, money, and influence.And in a city teetering on the edge of all-out war, healing items would become more valuable than gold.Raven''s grin widened.Oh¡­ right. They still don''t know.Whoever dumped these herbs clearly had no idea that everything was about to change.He glanced at his pouch, feeling the comforting weight of 6 gold coins. The loot from Garrett, plus his own funds, put him in an excellent position.And he wasn''t going to waste this opportunity.Without a second of hesitation, Raven began purchasing every single stack.Silver vanished from his balance as he bought in bulk, one after another, until¡ª[Market Stock: 0]He had taken everything.Not a single herb remained at that absurd price. The next cheapest listing was now 5 silver per stack, and once those were gone, the prices would skyrocket.Raven chuckled to himself.Whoever sold these herbs? They were going to regret it.And him?He was about to get very, very rich.


    Raven smirked as he closed the market tab. His gamble on the healing herbs was set¡ªsoon, their price would skyrocket, and he''d profit massively.But as he scanned the auction listings, something else caught his eye.[Silver Alchemy Furnace]Bidding Price: 2 GoldBuyout Price: 8 GoldA high-tier alchemy crafting station. Perfect for mass-producing potions, a goldmine for any alchemist or guild.Raven barely hesitated.Bid Placed: 4 Gold.A notification popped up:"You are now the highest bidder."His grin widened. If no one outbid him, he''d walk away with an incredibly valuable item at half the buyout price.And if someone did? It would only drive up demand¡ªeither way, he''d win.---On the Other Side¡ªAlex''s PanicMeanwhile, Alex was spiraling.His stomach dropped as he saw the new bid."No, no, no! Who the hell just bid 4 gold?!"He only had 2 gold left!His hands shook as he fumbled with his guild interface and called Sophie.The line connected."What do you want now?" Sophie''s tone was already filled with irritation."T-The furnace!" Alex stammered. "Someone bid 4 gold! I don''t have enough!"Silence.Then, Sophie laughed.Not a pleasant laugh. A cold, mocking laugh."You useless pig."Alex flinched. "I¡ª""I told you to buy it immediately. But no. You hesitated. You wasted time. And now someone else has it. Are you actually braindead?"His face burned with shame. "I-I just need more gold¡ª"Sophie clicked her tongue. "Pathetic. If you can''t even handle this, what use are you?"Alex clenched his fists.He couldn''t fail. Not when he''d spent so long proving himself."Please, Sophie! Just give me a chance¡ª"Sophie exhaled sharply, as if debating whether or not to waste another second on him.Then, she made a decision."Fine. Liam has a rare skill book. Originally, I planned to use it on an expert player, but thanks to your incompetence, I have to sell it instead. Go find him and make sure it sells for gold. If you mess this up too, don''t bother showing your face again."Click.The call cut off.Alex exhaled sharply, swallowing his frustration.Not only had he screwed up, but now his mistake had cost the guild a valuable resource.He had no choice. He had to find Liam.And fast.


    Alex practically sprinted through the streets of Viles Town, his heart hammering in his chest. Every second wasted was another chance for someone else to outbid him on the Silver Alchemy Furnace.


    His breath came in sharp gasps as he reached the marketplace and scanned the crowd.


    Where the hell is Liam?


    Then, he spotted him.


    Liam stood near a makeshift stall, arms crossed, leaning against a wooden crate. Unlike Alex, he looked completely at ease¡ªas if he wasn''t about to make a game-changing sale.


    Alex pushed through the crowd.


    "Liam!" he hissed, trying to keep his voice low.


    Liam barely spared him a glance. "You look like shit."


    Alex ignored the insult. "Sophie sent me. She said you''re selling the skill book. How much?"


    Liam finally looked at him properly, his gaze sharp. "You''re in a hurry. That bad, huh?"


    Alex gritted his teeth. "Just tell me the price."


    Liam smirked. "Five gold."


    Alex''s stomach dropped.


    "Five gold? Are you insane?! I barely have two!"


    Liam shrugged. "Not my problem. This book was meant for an expert, remember? Sophie is only selling it because of your screw-up. You think she''s just gonna give it away for nothing?"


    Alex gripped his hair.


    He needed that gold. If he didn''t get it, he wouldn''t win the furnace. If he lost the furnace, Sophie would kill him.


    His mind raced for options.


    "What if¡ª" He swallowed. "What if I find a buyer for more? I sell it at a markup and take a cut?"


    Liam raised a brow. "You? You think you can find a buyer willing to overpay?"


    Alex was desperate, but he wasn''t stupid.


    The auction house was in chaos because of that ledger. Every major guild and noble faction was watching the market. Someone¡ªsomeone¡ªhad to be looking for a rare skill book.


    And if he played it right?


    He could flip it for more.


    Liam studied him for a long moment.


    Then, with a chuckle, he tossed the skill book at Alex.


    [Rare Skill Book ¨C ???]


    "Fine. You have fifteen minutes." Liam smirked. "Sell it for more, or I''m taking the gold straight from your hide."


    Alex didn''t wait.


    He turned and bolted toward the auction house.


    Fifteen minutes. One sale.


    If he failed?


    He was finished.

 Chapter 27 pressure can make mistakes

    A Costly Mistake ¨C The Weight of Failure


    Alex burst into the auction house, barely stopping himself from crashing into a passing player. He shoved his way through the crowd, his pulse hammering in his ears. His entire body was drenched in sweat, a mix of exhaustion and sheer panic.


    Liam had given him fifteen minutes to sell the Rare Skill Book and bring back the gold. That was his one chance. If he failed¡ª


    No.


    He shook his head furiously. Failure wasn''t an option.


    With shaky hands, he pulled up the auction interface and quickly navigated to the listing screen.


    [List Item for Sale]


    The Rare Skill Book gleamed in his inventory. He took a deep breath, forcing himself to focus.


    "Alright¡­ just set the price, make a quick profit, and buy the furnace."


    His fingers flew over the keyboard, his breath ragged.


    Starting Bid: 5 Gold


    Buyout Price: 7 Gold


    He exhaled, his chest tightening as he reached for the Confirm button.


    His hands were slick with sweat.


    His fingers trembled.


    A single misstep. A single tap¡ª


    Wait.


    His stomach dropped the moment he pressed the button.


    [Item Listed: Rare Skill Book]


    Starting Bid: 1 Gold


    Buyout Price: 2 Gold


    ¡­What?


    Alex''s heart stopped.


    "No, no, no¡­ this isn''t right!"


    His eyes darted back to the numbers. He was sure¡ªSURE¡ªhe had set the buyout at 7 gold. But in his panic, his rushing, his shaking fingers¡­


    He had made a mistake.


    A fatal mistake.


    He''d just thrown away one of the rarest skill books in the game for nothing.


    His breathing turned shallow. A cold sweat ran down his back.


    "Cancel! Cancel! Cancel!"


    His fingers smashed the screen as he tried to undo it.


    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    [Error: Auctioned items cannot be canceled once listed.]


    His vision blurred. His stomach churned.


    This can''t be happening.


    Then¡ª


    Ding!


    A chilling sound.


    A notification flashed across his screen.


    [Your item has been purchased.]


    His breath caught in his throat.


    Someone had already bought it.


    For 2 gold.


    A Rare Skill Book that could have sold for 10, maybe even 20 gold¡ªgone in an instant.


    His legs trembled. His hands hung limply at his sides.


    "No¡­" His voice was barely a whisper.


    It felt like the world was crashing down on him.


    He had nothing now.


    No way to buy the Silver Alchemy Furnace.


    No way to fix his mistake.


    No way to explain this to Sophie.


    Sophie.


    A shiver ran down his spine.


    How was he supposed to face her?


    She was already furious about the furnace. Now, he had lost the skill book for practically nothing.


    He could already hear her mocking laugh, already feel her cold disdain.


    His body felt heavy. It was getting hard to breathe.


    The auction house suddenly felt too small, the voices of players chattering around him like a distant hum. His ears were ringing. His throat was dry.


    His knees nearly gave out.


    He had failed.


    And now, he had to walk back to Liam.


    To Sophie.


    To his humiliation.


    The auction house was a storm of noise¡ªplayers shouting bids, arguing over prices, and scrambling to grab whatever they could before the market shifted. The death of Garrett was stirring up the underworld, but no one had realized it yet.


    Raven, however, had no intention of wasting this golden opportunity.


    He leaned against a pillar, casually scrolling through the auction listings, watching the chaos unfold. Prices were fluctuating wildly, healing herbs were absurdly cheap, and guilds were moving in packs, desperate to secure anything valuable before the economy settled.


    Then¡ª


    Something strange appeared.


    [Rare Skill Book ¨C ???]


    Starting Bid: 1 Gold


    Buyout Price: 2 Gold


    Raven''s eyes narrowed.


    ¡­2 gold?


    A Rare Skill Book listed for only 2 gold? That was beyond suspicious. No one¡ªabsolutely no one¡ªwould willingly sell a skill book at that price unless they were a newbie who didn''t understand its value or they had made a mistake.


    His smirk widened.


    Someone screwed up.


    His finger moved without hesitation.


    [Confirm Purchase]


    Ding!


    [You have purchased: Rare Skill Book ¨C Phantom Strike]


    Raven''s breath slowed as he quickly opened his inventory, his fingers swiping across the screen to check the skill''s details.


    [Phantom Strike]


    Type: Movement & Attack Skill


    Effect: Instantly phase forward a short distance, striking an enemy while avoiding counterattacks.


    Cooldown: 8 seconds.


    Minimum Requirements: agility 10


    His heart skipped a beat.


    This skill¡­


    He remembered it clearly from his previous life. It was a prized treasure among high-level melee players, a skill that let assassins, warriors, and even rangers unleash devastating attacks while dodging counterattacks.


    Back then, even in stable market conditions, Phantom Strike had sold for at least 20 gold. And now?


    With the town on the verge of chaos, its value would only skyrocket.


    He exhaled, his lips curling into a smirk.


    A mistake for them¡­ a fortune for me.


    He could sell it for a massive profit. But the more he thought about it, the more his grip tightened around the book.


    No.


    This was a skill worth keeping.


    Raven had no plans of playing passively in this life. If he wanted to be stronger¡ªtruly untouchable¡ªhe needed every advantage possible.


    His fingers clenched around the skill book as he made his decision.


    He was keeping it.


    But there was one last thing to take care of.


    His bid on the Silver Alchemy Furnace.


    Earlier, he had placed a bid of 4 gold, hoping to secure the valuable crafting item. But now?


    Alchemy could wait.


    With a quick motion, he canceled his bid on the furnace.


    The system confirmed the cancellation, and his 4 gold coins were instantly refunded.


    Now, he had a powerful skill in his hands and enough gold to maneuver through the chaos ahead.


    Raven''s smirk deepened.


    Across the auction house, Alex stood frozen, eyes wide, face pale as death. He had just realized what he had done.


    He had given away a 20-gold skill book for nothing.


    Raven let out a low chuckle, shaking his head.


    "A fool''s mistake¡­ but I won''t complain."


    Sliding the Phantom Strike skill book into his inventory, he turned on his heel and walked away.


    The real game was only beginning.


    A Step Toward Power


    Raven didn''t hesitate.


    The moment Phantom Strike landed in his inventory, he tapped on it.


    [Would you like to learn Phantom Strike?]


    ¡ú Yes | No


    He pressed Yes without a second thought.


    A surge of energy coursed through his body. It was brief but sharp¡ªlike a jolt running through his muscles, rewiring his instincts. His vision flickered for a split second, and then¡ª


    Ding!


    [You have learned Phantom Strike!]


    He clenched his fist, feeling the newfound power settle into him.


    A skill like this wasn''t just an attack. It was a lifeline. A tool that could let him evade, assassinate, or even turn the tide in a fight before his enemies even knew what hit them.


    And best of all? No one else had it yet.


    He moved to a quieter corner of the auction house and opened his skill menu.


    [Phantom Strike ¨C Level 1]


    Effect: Instantly phase forward a short distance, striking an enemy while avoiding counterattacks.


    Range: 2 meters


    Damage Bonus: +10%


    Cooldown: 8 seconds


    Proficiency: 0/500


    500 proficiency to level it up¡­


    It wasn''t going to be easy, but Raven wasn''t worried. He''d get that experience soon enough.


    He flexed his fingers, rolling his shoulders.


    "Let''s see how this feels."


    Glancing around, he made sure no one was watching before activating the skill.


    Phantom Strike!


    For a split second, his body flickered, as if reality itself struggled to hold onto him. Then¡ªwhoosh!


    He phased forward, his movement so fluid and sudden that it felt like he had teleported. His body reappeared exactly two meters away, his hand instinctively lashing out as if striking an enemy.


    He exhaled, a slow grin spreading across his face.


    It was even better than he remembered.


    This was his now.


    No one could take it away.


    Sliding his hands into his pockets, Raven walked toward the exit of the auction house. The world outside was still unaware of what was coming.


    But soon?


    Viles Town would be in flames.

 Chapter 28 alex anger in wrong place

    Alex''s Fate ¨C A Dog''s Worth


    Alex stood frozen in the auction house, his breath shallow, his fingers still hovering over the interface as if he could somehow undo what had just happened.


    Phantom Strike was gone.


    For 2 gold.


    He had just thrown away a skill worth 20 gold¡ªmaybe even more.


    His entire body felt numb.


    The crowded auction house, the players rushing past him, the constant notifications flashing on his screen¡ªnone of it registered.


    All he could hear was the pounding of his own heartbeat and the distant echo of Sophie''s voice in his head.


    "Don''t disappoint me, Alex."


    His stomach twisted violently.


    What¡­ what was he going to do?


    With trembling hands, he fumbled to open his friend list and called Sophie.


    Beep¡­ Beep¡­ Click.


    "What?"


    Her cold, irritated voice came through instantly.


    Alex''s throat went dry.


    He tried to speak, but his voice caught. The words felt too heavy, too dangerous to say.


    Sophie''s patience didn''t last.


    "¡­Alex?"


    Her voice sharpened.


    Alex swallowed, forcing out a shaky, barely audible, "I¡­ I messed up."


    Silence.


    Then, a slow, amused chuckle.


    "Messed up?" she repeated, as if tasting the words.


    Alex nodded frantically¡ªeven though she couldn''t see him. "I-I was listing the skill book, but I¡ª"


    "Did you sell it?"


    The amusement vanished from her tone.


    A cold, suffocating pressure replaced it.


    Alex''s fingers curled into a fist, his nails digging into his palm. He didn''t want to answer.


    But he had no choice.


    "Y-Yes¡­" he choked out.


    Silence again.


    For one agonizing second, he thought the call had disconnected.


    Then¡ª


    "For how much?"


    A whisper. Low. Dangerous.


    Alex felt like he was standing at the edge of a cliff.


    He closed his eyes.


    "¡­2 gold."


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    The silence this time was heavier.


    Then¡ª


    Laughter.


    Cold. Mocking.


    Sophie was laughing at him.


    Alex''s knees nearly gave out. His chest felt tight, like an invisible hand was squeezing the air out of his lungs.


    "You¡­ you sold a 20-gold skill book for 2 gold?" she said between laughter. "Are you¡­ actually braindead?"


    Alex''s face burned with shame. His hands trembled.


    "I-I was in a rush! I¡ª"


    "Shut up."


    Her voice dropped, turning sharp as a knife.


    "I don''t want excuses. I want results."


    Alex flinched.


    "Sophie, I¡ª"


    "No. You don''t get to talk."


    His mouth snapped shut.


    She exhaled slowly, as if trying to contain her rage.


    Sophie''s laughter faded, leaving behind a silence so sharp it made Alex''s skin crawl.


    Then, her voice came back¡ªcalm, slow, deliberate.


    "Do you have any idea¡­ how fucking stupid you are?"


    Alex''s breath hitched.


    "Do you?" she pressed, her tone darkening. "Because I''m struggling to understand how someone with a functional brain¡ªno, wait, let me correct myself¡ªsomeone who pretends to have a functional brain¡ªcould make such a colossal mistake."


    "I¡ª"


    "Shut up," she snapped, her voice cracking like a whip. "Just shut up, Alex."


    He swallowed hard, his entire body locked in place.


    "You had one job. One. I handed you an opportunity, and you threw it in the garbage like the fucking idiot you are."


    Her voice was laced with venom now, each word hitting him like a slap to the face.


    "Do you even understand what you''ve done?" she continued, her words slow, each syllable dripping with contempt. "Do you know what that skill book could''ve gotten us? Do you know how much gold I had to move around for this bullshit?"


    Alex clenched his fists so tightly his nails dug into his palms.


    "Sophie, I can fix it¡ª"


    "Fix it?" she cut him off with a sharp, mocking laugh. "Oh? You''re going to magically pull Phantom Strike back out of the void? Maybe rewind time? Maybe stop being a useless piece of shit for five goddamn minutes?"


    Alex bit his tongue so hard he tasted blood.


    "You''re worthless, Alex. A deadweight. A fucking liability," she hissed. "I should''ve left you rotting with Mark instead of wasting my time on you."


    His heart clenched painfully.


    "You were nothing before me, Alex. Nothing. I pulled you up, I gave you a chance, and this¡ª" she scoffed, "this is what you do with it?"


    Alex''s entire body trembled, shame and anger twisting inside him.


    "¡­I-I can¡ª"


    "You can what?" she snapped. "Do you even have gold to cover the loss? Oh, wait¡ªyou don''t."


    His silence was answer enough.


    Sophie let out a low, disappointed sigh.


    "You''re a joke," she muttered. "A pathetic, embarrassing joke."


    Alex''s vision blurred.


    His hands shook.


    His mind screamed at him to fight back¡ªto say something¡ªbut he couldn''t. Because deep down, he knew.


    She was right.


    Alex''s breathing was ragged, his fists clenched so tightly his nails dug into his palms. His entire body burned with humiliation and rage.


    Enough.


    "Fuck you, Sophie!" he snapped, his voice raw with fury.


    The silence on the other end was instant.


    Then¡ª


    "What did you just say?"


    Alex''s heart pounded, but he didn''t stop. "I''m done with this bullshit. I''m leaving the guild. Find someone else to treat like a fucking dog."


    For the first time in the conversation, Sophie didn''t respond immediately.


    Then¡ª


    A slow, amused chuckle.


    "You think you can leave, Alex?"


    Something about the way she said it sent a chill down his spine.


    "Go ahead," she purred. "Try."


    A notification popped up on his screen.


    [Contract Agreement: Dark Solution]


    Clause 13.2: Early Termination


    The signee agrees to a 10-year binding period.


    If the signee wishes to leave before the contract''s completion, they must pay a penalty of 100,000 credits.


    Alex''s blood ran cold.


    "You¡­" His throat tightened. "You tricked me."


    Sophie sighed, her voice laced with mock pity. "No, Alex. You tricked yourself. You were so desperate for a shortcut, you didn''t even read what you signed."


    His hands trembled as he stared at the outrageous number on his screen.


    "One hundred thousand credits?" His voice cracked. "That''s¡ªThat''s impossible!"


    "For someone like you? Yeah." Sophie''s voice was dripping with satisfaction. "But that''s the price of stupidity, Alex."


    Alex felt like he was suffocating.


    He was trapped.


    Alex''s mind raced, his breathing uneven. His whole body trembled¡ªnot just from anger, but from the sheer helplessness pressing down on him like a weight he couldn''t shake off.


    Ten years.


    One hundred thousand credits.


    There was no way out.


    "Good," Sophie said after letting the silence stretch just long enough for it to suffocate him. "Now that you''ve finally accepted your place, let''s talk about how you can start making up for your fuck-up."


    Alex bit his tongue so hard he tasted blood. He didn''t want to respond, didn''t want to give her the satisfaction, but Sophie wasn''t the kind of person you could ignore.


    "The ledger and the alchemy furnace," she said smoothly, her voice regaining its usual sharpness. "I want them both. And you? You''re going to bring them to me safely."


    Alex stiffened. "Ledger? What ledger?"


    Sophie clicked her tongue, irritated. "Don''t play dumb, Alex. The merchant''s ledger from Viles Town. It has records of every major trade happening in the region. With that, we''ll know exactly who''s supplying what¡ªand how to choke them out."


    Alex swallowed hard. That wasn''t a simple task. A ledger like that was kept under heavy security, even in a backwater town like Viles. The merchant guilds didn''t play around when it came to their records.


    "And the alchemy furnace?" he asked cautiously.


    "You don''t need to know why I want it," Sophie said dismissively. "You just need to get it. Both of them."


    Alex clenched his fists. "And if I refuse?"


    The smirk was practically audible in her voice. "Then you''ll be working off your debt very slowly, Alex. Maybe I''ll even make sure you earn exactly 10 credits a day. Oh, wait¡ªthat''s optimistic. Maybe 5."


    His stomach twisted.


    At that rate, he wouldn''t even pay off a fraction of his contract by the time he died.


    Sophie sighed dramatically. "Look, Alex. You''re already at the bottom. But if you actually manage to do this right, maybe¡ªjust maybe¡ªyou won''t be completely useless to me."


    Alex gritted his teeth.


    He had no choice.


    "Fine," he muttered, his voice hollow. "I''ll get them."


    Sophie''s smile was evident in her next words.


    "Good dog."


    Alex stared at his inventory, his hands still shaking from the adrenaline rush.


    He''d won the bid.


    The alchemy furnace was his.


    For once, he hadn''t screwed up.


    His heart pounded as he opened his friend list and called Sophie. The moment the call connected, he didn''t even wait for her to speak.


    "I got it," he said, forcing his voice to stay steady.


    There was a pause. Then¡ª


    "*Hah.**" Sophie let out a small, amused breath. "Looks like you''re not completely useless after all."


    Alex''s fists clenched. He had expected at least some kind of acknowledgment¡ªanything other than more of her mockery.


    "See? That wasn''t so hard, was it?*" Sophie continued, her voice laced with condescension. "I give you an order, you obey, and everything works out."


    His teeth ground together. "I told you, I¡ª"


    "Don''t get ahead of yourself, Alex." Her tone sharpened. "You''ve done one thing right. That doesn''t erase the fact that you threw away a skill book worth 20 gold."


    Alex bit his tongue.


    "Now," Sophie continued smoothly, "since you managed to get the furnace without screwing up, I expect you to handle the next task properly."


    Alex exhaled through his nose. "What next?"


    "The ledger," she said, as if it was obvious. "That should be simple enough, right? Since you''re on a winning streak."


    Alex''s entire body tensed.


    "That ledger belongs to the merchant guild," he said carefully. "If I get caught¡ª"


    "*Then don''t get caught.**" Sophie cut him off flatly. "It''s really not my problem how you do it, Alex. Just get it."


    His jaw tightened. "And if I don''t?"


    Sophie laughed softly. "Oh, Alex. Why do you keep pretending you have choices?*"


    His stomach twisted.


    "You want to stop being a worthless debt slave?" Her voice dropped to a low whisper, dripping with amusement. "Then earn your way out. But until then¡ª"


    A small pause, then a smirk in her voice¡ª


    "*Be a good dog and do as you''re told.**"

 Chapter 29 frost eye and k

    Alex wandered through the crowded streets of Viles Town like a man who had just been sentenced to death. His shoulders sagged, his eyes darted around in a daze, and his hands trembled slightly as they hovered over his interface.To any outsider, he looked like just another overwhelmed player.But Raven knew better.Perched on a rooftop, hidden in the shadows, he observed Alex with a sharp, calculating gaze. The idiot wasn''t even aware he was being followed.He had seen it all.The call with Sophie.The way she ripped into Alex like he was nothing.The moment Alex saw the contract locking him into ten years of servitude.Raven hadn''t even needed to eavesdrop. The fool had forgotten to mute his voice chat, practically broadcasting his suffering to anyone nearby.And Raven? He listened.Not just out of amusement¡ªthough Sophie''s words had been sharper than any blade¡ªbut because he saw something useful.Alex was desperate.A cornered animal, trapped, humiliated, and stripped of any real power.And desperate people? They were the easiest to manipulate.Raven smirked beneath his hood, his mind already spinning with possibilities.This is an opportunity.Alex was under Sophie''s control, forced to do whatever she ordered. And what did Sophie want?The merchant ledger and the alchemy furnace.Raven could use that. He didn''t care about Sophie''s goals¡ªhe had his own plans for Viles Town. But if Alex was running around like a headless chicken, chasing after high-value targets, then that meant chaos was coming.And chaos?That was his domain.But he couldn''t just act as Raven.No, if he wanted to move freely¡ªif he wanted to stir the pot, pit factions against each other, and start breaking the town''s economy¡ªhe needed a new identity.Something completely separate from his real self.Frost Eye.The name formed in his mind instantly.It was perfect.Cold, distant, and untraceable. A phantom in the shadows, a figure who could be blamed for any chaos that unfolded in Viles Town.Raven leaned back, a slow smirk forming on his lips.Alex was just an observation for now.But soon?Soon, he would be a stepping stone to something much bigger.


    The rooftops of Viles Town were quiet, the moon casting long shadows over the streets below. Hidden within those shadows, Frost Eye crouched silently, his dagger twirling effortlessly between his fingers.


    His gaze was locked onto Alex, the fool stumbling through the streets like a lost man.


    A man with no way out.


    A man who didn''t even know he was being hunted.


    Frost Eye had been watching for a while now, trailing Alex through the town''s winding alleys. The idiot was still reeling from Sophie''s orders, likely thinking of how to bring the merchant ledger without getting himself killed.


    Fool.


    He didn''t realize the real danger was much closer than any merchant guild.


    Frost Eye had been moments away from making his move. Not to kill Alex¡ªno, that would be a waste. He wanted to see how much more pressure Alex could take before he shattered. Would he run? Would he fight? Or would he simply break apart, turning into yet another disposable pawn?


    But just as he prepared to strike¡ª


    He saw him.


    A figure standing in the middle of the street, fists clenched, body tense like a drawn bowstring.


    Even from this distance, even without seeing his face clearly¡ªFrost Eye knew.


    K.


    A slow smirk curled at the corner of his lips before fading. K was furious. His body language was sharp, his breathing uneven but controlled¡ªlike a man barely keeping himself from tearing the entire town apart.


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    Frost Eye didn''t need to guess why.


    He knows.


    Garrett was dead.


    The news had reached him. And judging by the raw fury radiating off him, K wasn''t here to mourn. He was here to find the one responsible.


    Frost Eye''s grip on his dagger tightened.


    This¡­ was earlier than expected.


    He had known K would show up eventually, but he had planned to be long gone by then¡ªhidden in the shadows, pulling the strings from a safe distance.


    A direct confrontation?


    Not yet.


    Frost Eye didn''t fear K. But fighting him now, in the open, in a town filled with players and NPCs that could turn hostile at any moment? That was reckless.


    He wasn''t here to make mistakes.


    He was here to build chaos.


    So, with a flicker of movement, he vanished into the darkness, retreating to the safety of the rooftops, watching from above.


    But his eyes never left Alex.


    The fool had no idea that K''s wrath was coming. No idea that he was still a pawn in a game far larger than himself.


    And Frost Eye?


    He was going to make sure Alex played his role perfectly.


    The air in Viles Town felt suffocating.


    Something had shifted.


    A storm was brewing, one fueled by blood and vengeance.


    Frost Eye remained crouched atop a rooftop, his hood pulled low, his dagger resting against his palm as he observed the town below. His sharp gaze followed K, who stood frozen in the middle of the street, fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles had turned white.


    His entire body trembled¡ªnot with fear, but with rage.


    Frost Eye could feel the fury radiating from him.


    And he didn''t need to guess why.


    K knows.


    He knows about Garrett''s death.


    His brother was gone, and now he was standing at the crossroads of the town, not as a grieving man¡ªbut as a hunter searching for his prey.


    The usual background noise of the town¡ªthe shouting of NPC merchants, the clanking of armor, the murmurs of passing players¡ªhad faded into an eerie silence.


    No one approached K.


    No one dared.


    Even the most reckless players knew not to get in his way.


    K inhaled sharply, his chest rising as he tried to control himself¡ªthen, without hesitation, he strode forward, boots slamming against the cobblestone.


    His target?


    The auction house.


    Frost Eye''s smirk deepened.


    "Oh? Now this is interesting."


    He had expected K to storm through the streets blindly, tearing apart anyone who got in his way. But this? This was different.


    K wasn''t acting on blind rage.


    He was thinking. Tracking. Hunting.


    And that meant he was retracing Garrett''s last steps.


    Which led to one person.


    Alex: A Fool Carrying a Death Sentence


    Alex moved through the streets like a walking corpse, his mind racing with fear and frustration.


    He was clutching his bag tightly¡ªtoo tightly¡ªas if that alone could protect him from what was coming.


    Inside that bag sat the merchant ledger.


    The very thing Sophie had ordered him to retrieve.


    A book filled with records of deals, transactions, and debts from the most powerful traders in Viles Town. A book worth a fortune.


    And now?


    It felt heavier than anything he had ever carried.


    Sophie''s last words still rang in his ears.


    "You don''t get to make choices, Alex. You exist to work. Now do what you''re told."


    Alex clenched his teeth, forcing himself to move forward.


    He had already lost Phantom Strike like an idiot. He couldn''t afford to mess up again.


    At least he had secured the alchemy furnace and the ledger. That had to be enough, right?


    Right?


    But as he turned the corner, his stomach dropped.


    Because standing right outside the auction house, scanning the crowd with the eyes of a man ready to kill, was K.


    Alex''s breath caught in his throat.


    His heart pounded violently against his ribs as a cold sweat broke out across his skin.


    K was here.


    And the way his gaze locked onto Alex¡ªsharp, unrelenting¡ªmeant he was looking for someone.


    For him.


    Alex stiffened, instinctively taking a step back. His grip tightened around his bag.


    His mind screamed at him to run.


    But he couldn''t.


    Because running meant guilt.


    Running meant death.


    And so he stood frozen, caught between the crushing weight of the ledger in his bag and the storm brewing in front of him.


    From the Shadows: Frost Eye Watches


    Above them, hidden in the shadows, Frost Eye watched the scene unfold with quiet amusement.


    This was perfect.


    Alex had exactly what K needed¡ªthe ledger filled with the town''s most valuable trade secrets.


    And K?


    K had exactly what Alex feared¡ªpower, rage, and a reason to tear him apart.


    Frost Eye''s dagger twirled between his fingers as he leaned forward slightly, calculating his next move.


    He could intervene.


    He could turn this encounter into a bloodbath, pit them against each other, ignite the chaos he craved.


    Or¡ª


    He could do nothing and let Alex''s stupidity lead him straight to his own destruction.


    Either way¡­


    This was going to be fun.

 chapter 30 k anger and alex death

    The night air in Viles Town felt suffocating.


    The usual buzz of the marketplace¡ªthe chatter of players bartering, the clinking of coins, the distant sound of weapons being sharpened¡ªfaded into an eerie silence as K closed the distance to Alex.


    The world seemed to narrow.


    All that existed in this moment was K''s burning rage and Alex''s rising terror.


    Each step K took was heavy, deliberate, sending a clear message.


    There was no running.


    No hiding.


    Alex''s breath quickened as K stopped just inches away, towering over him like a shadow of impending doom.


    Then¡ª


    A hand shot out.


    Fistful of collar.


    Lift. Slam.


    Alex''s back collided against the cold stone wall, the impact jarring his entire body. His bag nearly slipped from his grip, but he clutched it desperately.


    Inside was the ledger.


    The very thing that could spell his doom if K found out.


    K''s grip was iron, his knuckles pale with the sheer force of his hold.


    For a long, agonizing moment, he simply stared.


    His eyes¡ªonce sharp and calculating¡ªwere now voids of raw, simmering fury.


    A predator sizing up his prey.


    A storm ready to unleash destruction.


    Then, in a voice so low and lethal that it sent a chill down Alex''s spine¡ª


    "Where is he?"


    Alex''s throat went dry.


    He knew who K was asking about.


    He didn''t need to say the name.


    It was written in the rage tightening around Alex''s throat.


    But Alex''s mind still scrambled for a way out.


    If he said the wrong thing¡ªif he so much as hinted at knowing something¡ªK would rip him apart right here in the streets.


    His mouth opened¡ªno words came out.


    K''s grip tightened.


    "Where is Garrett?"


    The name hit Alex like a dagger to the chest.


    His vision blurred for a second, his mind screaming at him to think. To survive.


    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    But K didn''t have patience for silence.


    BAM!


    A fist to the gut¡ªraw force, pure anger.


    Air fled Alex''s lungs, his body instinctively curling inward as a sharp, sickening pain erupted in his stomach.


    His knees nearly buckled, but K held him up, refusing to let him collapse.


    Alex coughed violently, his fingers clawing at K''s arm, trying to pry himself free¡ªbut K''s strength was absolute.


    "Try again."


    His voice was cold.


    Deadly.


    Alex gasped, struggling to breathe, his mind spinning.


    "I¡ªI didn''t do anything!" he choked out, his voice barely above a whisper. "I swear! I¡ª"


    BAM!


    Another fist.


    This time to his side, hitting just under his ribs.


    Sharp. Crushing.


    Alex let out a strangled gasp, his vision blurring as the pain exploded through his body. His hands trembled, his grip on the bag loosening for just a second.


    K noticed.


    His eyes flicked downward.


    The bag.


    K yanked it off Alex''s shoulder.


    Alex panicked.


    NO.


    His hands shot out, grabbing onto it desperately.


    If K opened that bag¡ª


    If he saw the ledger inside¡ª


    Alex would be dead.


    K''s eyes narrowed.


    The moment Alex resisted, the slightest bit of fight flickering in his eyes¡ª


    K snapped.


    With a single, brutal motion, he threw Alex to the ground.


    The impact sent Alex skidding across the cobblestone, his hands scraping against the rough surface, the bag slipping from his grasp.


    He scrambled to reach it.


    But K was already there.


    A heavy boot pressed down on the bag, pinning it to the ground.


    Alex''s heart plummeted.


    K bent down slowly, his fingers curling around the bag''s strap.


    This is it.


    He''s going to see it.


    Alex''s mind screamed in panic, his body frozen as he watched K begin to open it¡ª


    From the Shadows: Frost Eye Watches


    Above them, unseen, Frost Eye smirked.


    Alex was drowning in panic.


    K was consumed by rage.


    And in mere seconds, the town was about to erupt into chaos.


    Frost Eye tilted his head slightly, calculating his next move.


    He could let this play out.


    Let K discover the ledger, realize that Alex had been carrying a fortune in trade secrets, and watch as he decided whether to gut him on the spot or use him for more answers.


    Or¡ª


    He could intervene, twist the game in a way only he knew how.


    Either way¡­


    This was going to be fun.


    Just as K was about to fully open the bag¡ª


    SWISH!


    A thin, precise blade sliced through the air.


    Alex barely registered the movement before¡ª


    SLASH!


    A sharp pain tore through his hand.


    "AAAH!"


    His fingers instinctively released the bag as he stumbled backward, clutching his bleeding hand.


    The bag fell, hitting the cobblestone with a dull thud¡ªits contents spilling out.


    And then¡ª


    The ledger slid across the ground¡­ stopping right at K''s feet.


    Silence.


    For a moment, the world seemed to hold its breath.


    K''s eyes locked onto the ledger.


    His rage¡ªalready simmering¡ªboiled over.


    His fingers twitched, his breathing deepened, and his entire posture stiffened.


    Then, slowly, his gaze shifted¡ªback to Alex.


    A different kind of fury burned in his eyes now.


    Not just anger.


    Hatred.


    Alex, still gasping in pain, saw the shift and froze.


    K bent down, picking up the ledger with careful precision, as if touching something sacred.


    His fingers traced over the cover¡­ and then his eyes landed on something else.


    Something that made his blood run cold.


    As K''s fingers closed around the ledger, his fury was already reaching its peak.


    Then his gaze shifted¡ªand froze.


    There, on Alex''s shoulder, barely noticeable beneath his armor¡ª


    An emblem.


    Not an NPC faction''s mark. Not a merchant seal.


    But a player guild emblem.


    Dark Solution.


    K''s mind snapped into clarity.


    This wasn''t just some random merchant ledger.


    This wasn''t just a mistake made by some clueless player.


    This ledger¡­ belonged to Dark Solution.


    A player guild.


    Which meant¡ª


    Alex wasn''t some helpless fool caught in the crossfire.


    He was part of something bigger.


    Something rotten.


    K''s grip tightened on the ledger, his knuckles going white.


    He didn''t just see Alex anymore.


    He saw a pawn.


    A piece of the very guild that might have played a role in his brother''s death.


    Alex''s Desperate Panic


    Alex saw the way K''s entire body stiffened.


    He saw the way his eyes darkened.


    And in that instant¡ªhe knew.


    K wasn''t just angry anymore.


    He wanted to kill him.


    "N-No, wait¡ª!" Alex stammered, stepping back, cradling his bleeding hand. "It''s not¡ª I-I was just¡ª"


    BAM!


    A boot slammed into his chest.


    Alex was sent flying backward, his body skidding across the rough stone, his lungs screaming for air.


    He barely had time to recover before K was already striding toward him.


    The ledger was still in his grip.


    And Alex could tell¡ªK wasn''t planning to return it.


    He was planning to break him.


    Alex''s fingers trembled as he scrolled through his inventory, his breathing ragged. The Silver Alchemy Furnace was still there.


    Relief flooded through him.


    K had beaten him. Humiliated him. Stolen the ledger.


    But at least he was alive.


    And as long as he still had something valuable, Sophie wouldn''t kill him.


    Maybe he could still¡ª


    The Phantom Appears


    A whisper of movement.


    Too fast. Too silent.


    Before Alex could react¡ª


    A cold blade pressed against his neck.


    His entire body locked up.


    His breath hitched.


    His instincts screamed at him¡ªRUN.


    But he was frozen in place.


    Who?!


    No footsteps. No warning.


    Just a presence.


    Then¡ª


    A voice.


    Low. Calm. Merciless.


    "You look relieved, Alex."


    Alex''s stomach twisted into knots.


    This wasn''t K.


    This wasn''t Sophie.


    This was someone else.


    His hands shook as he tried to turn his head, but the blade at his throat didn''t move.


    A player?


    Someone after the furnace?


    His lips parted¡ªbut before he could beg, scream, or run¡ª


    SHHHNK.


    Phantom Strike.


    The blade drove straight through his heart.


    A perfect, instant kill.


    Alex gasped. His eyes widened in horror.


    His vision blurred.


    His fingers twitched¡ªhis mind desperately clinging to reality¡ª


    Then¡ª


    Darkness.


    As his body collapsed, the last thing he saw was a name above the attacker''s head.


    [Frost Eye]


    [YOU HAVE DIED.]

 chapter 31 alex crying

    The Assassin''s Reward


    Alex''s lifeless body crumpled onto the cold stone, his limbs twitching once before going completely still. His eyes, wide with shock, stared blankly at the cobbled ground beneath him.


    Then¡ª


    A faint glow surrounded his corpse.


    The game''s loot system activated, processing the drop. A soft shimmer enveloped Alex''s body as his inventory scattered into the air for a brief second¡ªbefore the system decided what would remain and what would be lost.


    Frost Eye didn''t waste a second.


    He crouched, fingers moving swiftly over Alex''s remains, and initiated the loot sequence.


    A system notification blinked in front of him.


    [You have obtained: Silver Alchemy Furnace]


    His lips curled into a satisfied smirk.


    "Jackpot."


    A rare crafting tool, highly valuable, especially with the chaos brewing in town.


    A Pawn''s Worthless End


    Frost Eye glanced down at Alex''s corpse, his cold, calculating eyes scanning the lifeless form sprawled on the ground.


    A pawn.


    A fool who thought he could escape the game''s brutal reality.


    He had looked so relieved moments before death. As if he had finally caught a break.


    That made the kill even sweeter.


    Frost Eye stood, flexing his fingers before tapping his inventory to confirm his prize.


    A Silver Alchemy Furnace.


    With this, he could sell it for profit or use it to fuel the upcoming chaos.


    No Witnesses, No Traces


    His gaze flickered to the alley''s entrance. Still empty.


    The town was bustling, but nobody had seen a thing.


    No guards. No players.


    No witnesses.


    Just the way he liked it.


    His mission was complete, his reward secured, and there was no reason to linger.


    With one last glance at Alex''s corpse, Frost Eye''s smirk faded.


    Then¡ª


    He vanished into the shadows, his new prize safely in his inventory, leaving behind nothing but a cool breeze and the silent body of a forgotten pawn.


    Alex had betrayed him once.


    Back in college, when trust actually meant something.


    He had sold him out. For money.


    And now?


    Now, he had thrown away his own life for a fake sense of power.


    Sophie had played him like a dog, and he had obeyed.


    Frost Eye exhaled slowly, his gaze indifferent.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    He had never expected to cross paths with Alex again.


    But fate had given him a perfect chance.


    And he had taken it¡ªwithout a shred of hesitation.


    Darkness.


    A cold, suffocating void.


    Then¡ª


    A sudden jolt.


    Alex gasped as he was pulled back into existence, his body reassembling from shimmering fragments of light. His lungs burned as if he had been drowning, and his vision blurred before slowly sharpening.


    He was lying on cold, uneven ground. A thick fog swirled around him, damp earth clinging to his hands.


    A single notification hovered in front of him:


    [You have respawned at the Graveyard.]


    Alex''s stomach twisted.


    The Graveyard.


    Not the town. Not the city''s safe zone.


    The game had thrown him into one of the worst respawn locations¡ªa desolate field of crumbling tombstones, twisted trees, and distant, eerie wails.


    His fingers dug into the damp soil as realization crashed down on him.


    He was dead.


    Killed.


    By¡­ who?


    The last thing he remembered was¡ª


    Frost Eye.


    A name he didn''t recognize.


    A shadow in the dark.


    A blade that had pierced his heart before he could even react.


    His breathing quickened. His body trembled.


    He had lost everything. The Silver Alchemy Furnace. His progress.


    And worse¡ª


    He had no idea why.


    The Call of Judgment


    Then, before he could even gather his thoughts¡ª


    Bzzt. Bzzt.


    His friend list icon flashed red.


    A call.


    Sophie.


    His blood ran cold.


    His trembling fingers hovered over the interface, dread pooling in his stomach.


    For a split second, he considered ignoring it.


    Then¡ª


    Bzzt. Bzzt.


    He swallowed hard and tapped the button.


    Click.


    Silence.


    Then¡ª


    A voice.


    Cold. Sharp. Dangerous.


    "Where are you?"


    Alex''s heart nearly stopped.


    His throat was dry. His hands shook.


    She knew.


    Somehow¡ªshe knew.


    Alex sat hunched over in the fog-covered graveyard, his breathing shallow, his hands still trembling from the shock of his death. The cold, damp air clung to his skin, and the distant, eerie howls from beyond the tombstones sent a shiver down his spine.But none of that compared to the ice spreading through his veins as Sophie''s voice rang in his ears."Where are you?"It wasn''t a question. It was a demand.Alex swallowed hard.Everything in him screamed to lie, to stall, to find a way out.But he knew better.Sophie always knew when he was hiding something.So, with a dry throat and shaking voice, he forced the words out."I... I respawned at the graveyard."Silence.Not the kind of silence that meant she was thinking.The kind that meant she was furious.Then¡ªA quiet, slow exhale.Not a sigh. Not a breath of relief.A sound of pure disappointment.Alex clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms.He braced himself."Do you know how much you''ve cost me?"Sophie''s voice was calm¡ªtoo calm.Alex knew that tone.It was worse than if she had screamed at him.It meant she was already deciding what to do to him.His stomach twisted.His mouth opened, desperate to say something, anything¡ª"S-Sophie, I¡ª""Shut up."His jaw snapped shut.The fog around him felt heavier. The graveyard colder.Then¡ªHer voice dropped, each word cutting into him like a knife."You have one chance to fix this, Alex."A chill ran down his spine.He didn''t ask what would happen if he failed.Because he already knew.There was no way out.


    Nowhere to Run


    Alex sat frozen in the fog-covered graveyard, his breath shallow, his fingers twitching over his interface. He wanted to run, to log out, to pretend this wasn''t happening. But the voice in his ear was inescapable.


    Sophie.


    Her words carried no warmth, no patience¡ªjust a quiet, simmering rage beneath the surface.


    "Since you failed to keep the furnace, at least tell me you have the ledger."


    It wasn''t a request. It wasn''t even a demand.


    It was a trap.


    Alex knew how this worked.


    If he lied and she found out, the consequences would be worse than death.


    If he told the truth, he was as good as dead anyway.


    He clenched his fists, his nails digging into his palms. His mind raced, searching for an escape, an excuse¡ªanything to soften the blow.


    But there was nothing.


    No more second chances. No more saving himself.


    A lump formed in his throat, and when he finally forced out the words, his voice was barely a whisper.


    "I¡­ I lost it."


    Silence.


    A suffocating, heavy silence.


    Alex''s breathing quickened.


    Sophie wasn''t the type to scream right away. No, she let the fear sink in first¡ªlet the weight of the mistake crush you before she struck.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, she spoke.


    "Who has it?"


    Her voice was low, controlled¡ªbut each word cut deeper than a blade.


    Alex flinched.


    No way out.


    His stomach twisted violently, bile rising in his throat.


    "K."


    The name barely left his lips before he felt it.


    Something shifted.


    A sudden, sharp inhale from Sophie¡ªalmost imperceptible, but he knew her too well.


    Her silence wasn''t shock.


    It was calculation.


    She was deciding how much he was worth.


    How much punishment he deserved.


    The realization made his entire body go cold.


    Then¡ª


    Click.


    The call disconnected.


    Alex felt like the ground beneath him had vanished.


    His heart pounded so hard it hurt.


    He stared at the floating interface for a second, hoping, praying he had imagined it.


    But the screen was empty.


    She was gone.


    And that was worse than anything.


    Sophie didn''t waste time.


    If she had hung up, it meant she was already moving.


    Already coming for him.


    Alex felt a horrible weight settle in his chest.


    There was nowhere to run.


    Back to the Nightmare


    Alex''s body screamed in pain as he lay sprawled on the cold floor of his apartment. Every breath felt like knives digging into his ribs. His vision swam, his head still ringing from Sophie''s brutal kicks.


    She had left¡ªfor now.


    But her words echoed in his skull.


    "You will fix this. No matter what it takes."


    His fingers trembled as he reached for his VR headset.


    He had no time to rest. No time to think.


    If he hesitated, if he failed again¡­


    Sophie would make sure he regretted it.


    Alex gritted his teeth and forced the device over his head.


    "Log in."


    The world around him shifted.


    A rush of colors and light blinded him before the familiar, suffocating weight of Mortal Online settled over his senses.


    He was back.


    Back in the graveyard.


    Back in this nightmare.


    The cold mist curled around his feet as he stood there, still shaken. His hands clenched at his sides.


    He had one mission.


    Find K. Get the ledger. Survive.


    But even as he told himself that, he couldn''t shake the feeling of being watched.


    A chill ran down his spine.


    Somewhere, in the shadows of the town, someone was keeping an eye on him.


    And he had no idea who.


    Marked for Death


    As Alex limped through the graveyard, his body still aching from Sophie''s "lesson," a system-wide notification suddenly flashed before his eyes.


    > [Global Bounty Alert!]


    A bounty has been placed on the player Frost Eye.


    Reward: 10,000 Credits


    Issuer: Private Contractor


    Alex''s breath hitched.


    It wasn''t just a bounty¡ªit was a death sentence.


    10,000 credits.


    That wasn''t in-game gold.


    That was real money.


    Enough to make guilds, solo hunters, and even professional bounty players drop everything and go after Frost Eye like a pack of starving wolves.


    Around him, the town erupted into chaos.


    Players whispered in excitement. Some were already forming hunting parties. Others rushed to check the rankings, trying to figure out who this Frost Eye was.


    Alex let out a shaky breath.


    He knew who had placed the bounty.


    Sophie.


    And he knew why.


    Frost Eye¡ªthe one who killed him.


    The one who stole the Silver Alchemy Furnace.


    Alex''s hands curled into fists. He didn''t care who Frost Eye really was.


    All that mattered was that Sophie had found a new target for her wrath.


    And this time, she wouldn''t stop until Frost Eye was hunted down.

 chapter 32 frost eye famous

    Forum Reactions: "10,000 Credits on Frost Eye?!"


    As soon as the global bounty alert dropped, the Mortal Online forums exploded. Hundreds of threads popped up instantly, each filled with speculation, greed, and excitement.


    [HOT] 10,000 CREDITS BOUNTY?! WHO THE HELL IS FROST EYE?!


    > 10,000 credits? That''s not a normal bounty¡ªthat''s a goddamn assassination order.


    This has to be a mistake. Who drops that much money on a single player?


    It''s real. The bounty''s listed in the main system. Whoever this Frost Eye is, they pissed off someone with serious cash.


    Bro, for 10K, I''d abandon my guild, my morals, and even my in-game dog.


    No one is safe with that kind of price on their head. He''s already dead, he just doesn''t know it yet.


    ---


    [BREAKING] EVERYONE''S HUNTING FROST EYE ¨C JOIN OR GET LEFT BEHIND!


    > Entire guilds are mobilizing. The top bounty hunters are already tracking him down.


    You don''t understand. 10,000 credits isn''t just ''nice money''¡ªthat''s LIFE-CHANGING. People are about to ruin this guy in ways he''s not ready for.


    If anyone has a lead, DM me. We can split the money. No funny business.


    This is about to be the biggest manhunt in Mortal Online history.


    ---


    [Theory] This Bounty Is Personal ¨C What Did Frost Eye DO?!


    > 10K credits isn''t an in-game bounty¡ªit''s a vendetta.


    No one drops that kind of money unless it''s personal. Either he killed someone important, or he stole something BIG.


    What if it''s guild politics? Maybe he betrayed a top guild and they want to make an example out of him?


    Or maybe he scammed the wrong rich player. If I lost a fortune in loot, I might do the same.


    Dude''s either a genius thief or the dumbest man alive.


    ---


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    [Update] LAST SEEN NEAR VILES TOWN?


    > Multiple people are saying Frost Eye was spotted near Viles Town before the bounty went up.


    If he''s still there, he''s already dead. That place is gonna be swarming with killers.


    Whoever finds him first is getting PAID.


    If he''s smart, he''ll log out and wait this out. But with a bounty this big? He won''t be able to hide forever.


    I ALMOST feel bad for him. Almost.


    ---


    [MEMES] Frost Eye Running For His Life


    > "When you log in and see a bounty worth more than your real-life salary." (Attached: Screenshot of a character in full panic mode.)


    "Frost Eye right now:" (Attached: Video of a guy flipping a table and running out of a room.)


    "Every bounty hunter in the game:" (Attached: Image of a crowd of people sprinting toward one target.)


    ---


    The entire community was in a frenzy.


    A 10,000-credit bounty was unheard of. Frost Eye wasn''t just a target¡ªhe was the most wanted man in Mortal Online.


    And every player, bounty hunter, and guild in the game was coming for him.


    [In-Game: Luxaria Grand Restaurant ¨C Private Booth]


    The Luxaria Grand Restaurant was one of the most extravagant places in Mortal Online, reserved for high-ranking players and the elite. Golden chandeliers bathed the polished marble floors in a warm glow, and the scent of expensive, in-game delicacies filled the air.


    In a secluded booth near the back, Sophie sat with Liam, a glass of red wine in her hand. She wasn''t drinking it¡ªjust idly swirling the liquid as she stared at the bounty notification floating in her interface.


    Across from her, Liam leaned back in his seat, an amused smirk playing on his lips. "10,000 credits? For a random nobody?"


    Sophie didn''t look at him. "He stole from me."


    Liam let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. "That''s what I don''t get. He''s not even in a guild, just some no-name player. You don''t even know who he is."


    "That''s the problem," Sophie said, finally glancing up, her golden eyes cold. "If I let some nobody get away with robbing me, what''s stopping the next idiot from trying the same thing?"


    Liam exhaled, drumming his fingers against the table. "You know this bounty isn''t just big¡ªit''s insane. The entire server is going to be after this guy."


    "Good," Sophie said, setting down her glass with a soft clink. "I don''t just want him dead. I want him to suffer. I want him to feel the weight of my wrath until he has no choice but to log out and never come back."


    Liam smirked. "You do love making examples out of people."


    Sophie''s lips curled into a small, cruel smile. "It''s necessary."


    Liam sighed, leaning forward. "Alright, fine. I''ll put the word out. If anyone finds him, we''ll make sure he regrets ever crossing you."


    "Make sure of it," Sophie said, her voice dripping with finality.


    The deal was sealed.


    Frost Eye had nowhere to run.


    [In-Game: Viles Town ¨C The Death of Frost Eye, The Birth of Raven]


    The once-bustling streets of Viles Town felt different tonight. The usual rowdiness of adventurers, merchants, and mercenaries had been replaced with something more sinister¡ªa quiet, creeping hunger.


    The bounty had changed everything.


    10,000 credits. Real money.


    It was a fortune for most players, enough to turn friends into enemies and allies into predators. Bounty hunters, guild assassins, and desperate low-level players scoured the town, eyes scanning every face, every shadow, every alleyway.


    And at the center of this storm was Frost Eye.


    Or at least, the name he no longer carried.


    [Shadow Alley ¨C A Man on the Run]


    Deep in the maze of Shadow Alley, where the stench of rot clung to the air and torchlight flickered weakly against damp stone walls, Frost Eye crouched low, his breathing steady despite the chaos unfolding around him.


    He had seen the hunters. Five of them. Their movements were precise¡ªexperienced players who weren''t here for loot or side quests. They were here for him.


    He didn''t need to hear them speak to know what was on their minds.


    Where is Frost Eye?


    He gritted his teeth. He couldn''t just hide forever. He needed to disappear.


    Not just from this alley. From the game.


    Or at least, from the name that now carried a death sentence.


    [The Transformation ¨C Frost Eye Becomes Raven]


    He slipped into a narrow dead-end passage¡ªone he had scoped out earlier in case of emergencies. No players. No NPCs. No witnesses.


    A quick breath.


    System Menu ¡ú Character Identity ¡ú Alias Change.


    Frost Eye''s appearance began to shift.


    His distinct facial features blurred, reshaping into something unremarkable. His signature gear was swapped for generic traveler''s clothing. His white hair darkened to jet black, his piercing blue eyes shifting to deep gray.


    And most importantly¡ª


    Frost Eye was no more.


    Now, he was Raven.


    The system finalized the change, and with it, the bounty hunters lost their prey.


    Raven straightened, rolling his shoulders. His heartbeat had steadied, his mind was sharper than ever. The panic was gone. The hunt was over.


    At least, for him.


    For them?


    They would still be chasing a ghost.


    [Reentering Viles Town ¨C A New Man]


    He stepped out of the alley, back into the dimly lit streets of Viles Town, moving with quiet confidence. The faces of the bounty hunters were twisted with frustration as they searched for a man who no longer existed.


    Raven smirked.


    Let them hunt. Let them search.


    Frost Eye was dead.


    And Raven had just been born.

 chapter 33 system announcement

    Viles Town was a starting hub, a place where new players gathered before venturing into the world. The streets were packed with adventurers barely out of the tutorial¡ªLevel 1 and Level 2 players who had yet to experience real danger. Most still wore the basic leather armor they''d received at character creation, their weapons no better than iron daggers and wooden clubs.


    Dark Solution had made this town their breeding ground.


    They weren''t powerful here, not yet¡ªbut they were numerous. Low-level recruits flooded the area, joining the guild in exchange for protection and guidance. Their numbers gave them an illusion of strength.


    That illusion shattered the moment the system announcement rang out.


    ---


    A deep chime echoed across Viles Town.


    Every player¡ªno matter where they were¡ªfroze as a bold red notification appeared in their vision.


    > [System Announcement: Dark Solution members in Viles Town have been marked as targets by local thug NPCs.]


    > [Hostile NPCs will actively attack all Dark Solution members.]


    > [Warning: Viles Town has entered a volatile state. Player deaths may result in severe item and currency loss.]


    A few players exchanged nervous glances.


    Then a scream shattered the silence.


    A Level 2 Dark Solution rogue had been stabbed in the back. A thug NPC¡ªa filthy, scar-covered man with a rusted shiv¡ªtwisted the blade deeper into the rogue''s ribs before kicking him forward onto the cobblestone.


    The rogue twitched once, then went still.


    > [Critical Hit! You have been slain by a Viles Town Thug.]


    His silver coins¡ªno more than a handful¡ªspilled onto the street.


    A nearby Level 1 swordsman hesitated for just a second before lunging forward, swiping up the silver and darting into an alley.


    The first act of looting.


    The next came seconds later.


    A Level 1 Dark Solution archer, still confused by the announcement, turned to run¡ªonly for a thug to smash a club against the back of his skull. The low-level player collapsed instantly, dropping a basic shortbow and a few silver pieces.


    Another bystander snatched up the bow before the body hit the ground.


    Then came the next kill.


    Then the next.


    And suddenly¡ª


    Viles Town erupted into chaos.


    ---


    NPC thugs flooded the streets like a pack of rabid animals, their AI rewritten by the system''s directive.


    A Level 2 Dark Solution fighter tried to fight back, raising his rusted iron sword¡ªbut the moment he swung, three thugs tackled him to the ground. Their fists and clubs rained down on him, breaking his armor, his bones, his HP bar. He didn''t even get a single hit in.


    > [You have been slain.]


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    His loot?


    5 silver coins.


    A worn-out helmet.


    The garbage-tier drops weren''t worth much¡ªbut to Level 1 scavengers, they were everything.


    Players¡ªnewbies who had struggled to kill even wild boars outside town¡ªturned into vultures. They descended on the fallen, grabbing whatever they could before moving to the next.


    A Level 1 Dark Solution mage raised his hands, desperately trying to plead for mercy.


    "Wait! I don''t even¡ª"


    A knife to the throat cut him off.


    The thug looted his corpse. 2 silver.


    He scoffed and moved on.


    The city guards did nothing.


    They simply watched, their usual patrols unchanged. The law of Viles Town had shifted¡ªDark Solution was no longer under its protection.


    ---


    At the town gates, a group of Level 2 Dark Solution members tried to flee.


    "Run! RUN!"


    They barely made it five steps before a volley of arrows rained down from the rooftops.


    The NPC archers¡ªwho had never interfered before¡ªsuddenly unleashed hell.


    > [Viles Town Guards: Exit Lockdown Engaged.]


    The gates had become a slaughterhouse.


    One by one, the fleeing players collapsed, their bodies littering the entrance like a grisly warning.


    The few survivors who made it back into town found no safe haven.


    A Level 2 cleric tried to take cover inside an inn¡ªbut the door didn''t open. The innkeeper, an NPC, just smiled and locked it.


    A Level 1 thief dove into an alley¡ªonly to find it filled with waiting thugs.


    A Level 2 Dark Solution officer shouted, trying to rally the survivors.


    "We can still¡ª"


    A dagger buried itself in his skull.


    His body hit the ground before the order could leave his lips.


    ---


    And from his vantage point above it all, K watched.


    His brother''s ledger rested in his hands.


    The proof.


    Dark Solution was responsible.


    And now, they would pay.


    K''s fingers curled around his dagger.


    This was only the beginning.


    K perched on the rooftop of a crumbling tavern, watching the chaos below unfold like a carefully orchestrated tragedy.


    The system announcement had turned Viles Town into a hunting ground.


    Dark Solution members ran in every direction, their weapons drawn, their voices filled with panic. The thug NPCs were relentless, cutting down anyone wearing the guild insignia. And if the NPCs didn''t get them, the low-level scavengers did.


    Players who had once cowered at the sight of Dark Solution members were now emboldened. A mob of Level 1 players had overpowered a struggling Dark Solution rogue, beating him down with whatever weapons they had. The poor fool''s body hit the cobblestone, his inventory spilling silver coins onto the ground.


    Like rats, the scavengers swarmed.


    K didn''t care about them.


    His focus was on the ledger in his hands.


    ---


    The Ledger That Changed Everything


    K''s grip tightened around the worn leather cover.


    This book contained everything.


    Debts. Blackmail. Secret dealings between nobles and merchants. His brother''s work¡ªyears of careful documentation, every name written in his precise handwriting.


    His brother had been a merchant, but also a power broker.


    With this ledger, he had controlled who owed what, who was vulnerable, and who could be ruined with a single revelation.


    And yet¡ª


    Dark Solution had taken it.


    K didn''t know how. Maybe they had stolen it. Maybe they had bought it from someone who didn''t know its value.


    But none of that mattered.


    His brother was dead.


    And the last thing he had left behind¡ªhis greatest weapon¡ªhad ended up in the hands of the very people who might have had a hand in his death.


    K''s blood boiled.


    Dark Solution had touched what was his.


    Now, he would take everything from them.


    ---


    The First Target


    K''s eyes sharpened as he scanned the battlefield below.


    He needed a lone target. Someone isolated. Someone easy to kill.


    Then, he saw him.


    A Level 2 Dark Solution enforcer.


    The man was staggering down an alleyway, blood leaking from a gash across his ribs. His HP bar hovered just above 50%.


    His hands trembled as he clutched his wound, his breathing ragged.


    "Not long now," K thought.


    The enforcer was injured, desperate, and unaware.


    Perfect.


    K moved.


    Silent. Swift. Lethal.


    He stepped off the rooftop, landing on a wooden beam that overlooked the alley. The enforcer dragged himself forward, completely oblivious to the death looming above him.


    K gripped his dagger.


    One strike. That was all it would take.


    He waited for the perfect moment¡ª


    The enforcer stumbled forward, passing directly beneath him.


    K dropped.


    > [Backstab ¨C Critical Hit!]


    The dagger sank deep into the enforcer''s spine.


    A sharp gasp of pain tore from the man''s throat. His body twitched violently¡ªa reflexive, useless attempt to resist.


    Then, he collapsed.


    Dead before he hit the ground.


    > [You have slain a Dark Solution member.]


    [Loot Dropped: 4 Silver Coins, Iron Dagger (Durability Low).]


    K barely looked at the loot.


    He wasn''t here for silver.


    This was only the beginning.


    ---


    The Hunt Continues


    K melted into the shadows, stalking his next target.


    The city was in full chaos.


    NPC thugs patrolled the streets, attacking anyone bearing the Dark Solution insignia. Low-level players had turned into opportunistic murderers, striking down anyone too weak to fight back.


    K used the mayhem to his advantage.


    Another Dark Solution rogue ran for his life, darting between buildings.


    K followed.


    The rogue slipped into a half-burnt storage house, pressing his back against the wooden beams.


    He was trying to wait out the chaos.


    K stepped inside.


    The rogue turned just in time to see the gleam of a dagger.


    One clean strike¡ªa blade across the throat.


    The rogue collapsed, gurgling on his own blood.


    > [You have slain a Dark Solution member.]


    [Loot Dropped: 3 Silver Coins, Leather Armor (Torn).]


    K stepped over the body, his expression unreadable.


    Still not enough.


    ---


    The Butcher of Viles Town


    K continued his massacre.


    A Level 1 cleric begged for mercy.


    K slit his throat.


    A Level 2 fighter tried to fight back.


    K dodged his swing and plunged a dagger into his heart.


    A wounded archer crawled through the dirt, trying to reach safety.


    K stomped on his head, finishing the job.


    > [You have slain a Dark Solution member.]


    Kill after kill, his wrath consumed Viles Town.


    One by one, he erased them.


    And still¡ª


    It wasn''t enough.


    ---


    The Bounty That Set Viles Town on Fire


    K stood in the middle of the blood-soaked streets, his dagger dripping with crimson.


    His work alone wasn''t enough.


    He needed more death. More destruction.


    So, he opened local chat.


    > [K]: 1 silver for every Dark Solution member you kill. No questions asked.]


    A simple message.


    But it set Viles Town on fire.

 chapter 34 bounty in viles town

    Viles Town had descended into absolute chaos.A simple bounty had turned the once-thriving town into a warzone, a place where the blood of Dark Solution members stained the cobblestones and the air was thick with the scent of death and desperation.K''s simple message in local chat had done more than spark a riot¡ªit had unleashed a storm of violence.---The Beginning of the Bounty> [K]: 1 silver for every Dark Solution member you kill. No questions asked.]The offer was simple. It was too tempting for the players of Viles Town to resist.At first, there was a pause. Players read the message and hesitated. But as the first victim fell, the floodgates opened.A Level 1 thief darted out from the shadows. He spotted a Dark Solution mage limping through the streets, trying to escape the thugs hunting his guild.The thief grinned, eyeing the silver in the mage''s pocket.With a swift strike, the thief buried a rusty dagger deep into the mage''s back. The mage gasped, his HP bar plummeting as he fell to the ground, his body crumpling like a ragdoll.The thief quickly looted the mage''s body, pocketing the silver coins.> [Player ''RedCutter'' has slain a Dark Solution member.][1 Silver has been transferred.]The thief didn''t pause to celebrate. He ran off immediately, his eyes scanning for his next victim.The first kill was done. The next would be easier.---A Bloodlust Sweeps the TownK''s message had done more than incite a handful of players¡ªit had unleashed bloodlust.Viles Town''s population, always quick to take advantage of an opportunity, began hunting in packs. Low-level players¡ªthose who had once been the targets of Dark Solution''s tyranny¡ªnow found themselves with the upper hand.A group of four players¡ªranging from Level 1 to 2¡ªcornered a Dark Solution warrior at the northern gates. His armor was cracked and bloodied from an earlier skirmish with NPC thugs. His weapon¡ªa heavy axe¡ªwas too slow for the speed of the attackers.The warriors swarmed. A sword slashed at his side, a mace caught him in the knee. He swung his axe wildly, but it was no use. They were too many, and the warrior was exhausted.The finishing blow came from a Level 1 thief, his dagger flashing under the weak sun. He buried the blade into the warrior''s throat, and the Dark Solution member crumpled to the ground.> [Player ''SharpJack'' has slain a Dark Solution member.][1 Silver has been transferred.]The group of attackers paused only for a moment. They grabbed the silver, looted the fallen warrior''s items, and then ran off to find more targets.At this point, the bloodshed had already turned into a feverish hunt. More and more players flooded the streets, their eyes sharpened with greed.---Dark Solution''s StruggleDark Solution, once the apex predators of Viles Town, were now cornered like prey.They had no safe place to hide.The streets, the alleys, even the rooftops¡ªeverywhere was dangerous.A Level 2 officer¡ªthe leader of a small faction¡ªtried to rally his group in a secluded building near the town square."We can''t fight them all off!" one of the rogues cried, a dagger in hand. His voice was shaking with fear. "We''re outnumbered!"The officer, his face battered and bruised, clenched his fists. "We don''t have a choice. We stand and fight. We make them pay for every inch they take."But the desperation was evident. Even as he spoke, the sounds of battle echoed closer, the blood-curdling cries of fallen guildmates ringing through the air.The officer tried to fortify the building by barricading the doors, but he knew it wouldn''t be enough. The low-level players were relentless, and their numbers only seemed to grow by the minute.One of his men, a Level 2 cleric, ran to a nearby window and peered out.The streets were filled with players, every one of them armed and hungry for the bounty. Some were hunting in small packs, others alone, but all of them focused on Dark Solution''s downfall."We''re finished," the cleric muttered. "We''re being hunted down like animals."---The Carnage ContinuesMeanwhile, K watched from his vantage point atop a rooftop just outside the main square. His eyes flickered from one kill to the next, his mind calculating how many silver coins were being exchanged for each life taken.The scene below was savage.A Level 1 fighter tried to escape through a side alley but was ambushed by a group of three thieves. They surrounded him, slashing at him with their blades, and he had no chance to escape. He dropped to the cobblestones, dead before his body even hit the ground.> [Player ''CutterX'' has slain a Dark Solution member.][1 Silver has been transferred.]Elsewhere, a Dark Solution rogue attempted to climb a wall to escape. He had seen a small gap in the rooftops that might lead him to safety. But as he reached for the ledge, a player sniper shot an arrow that pierced through his leg.The rogue fell, struggling to get up, but the attacker was already there. With a swift thrust of a dagger, the rogue was finished.> [Player ''SkyBow'' has slain a Dark Solution member.][1 Silver has been transferred.]---The Officer''s Last StandBack in the building where the last of the officers had gathered, the mood had shifted.The group was no longer trying to fight back¡ªthey were fighting to survive.A Level 2 warrior and a cleric had already been killed. The remaining members of the group had barricaded themselves in a corner, weapons drawn.But it didn''t matter.A low-level mercenary group¡ªled by a Level 3 swordsman¡ªstormed into the building, their numbers overwhelming."We''ve got them now!" one of them shouted, a gleam of greed in his eyes.The battle was over in moments.The Level 2 officer tried to fight back, but he was outmatched. He swung his axe wildly, but it was no use. A long sword pierced his chest.> [Player ''AshSword'' has slain a Dark Solution officer.][2 Silver has been transferred.]As the officer''s body fell, the group of mercenaries quickly looted the few remaining valuables, including silver coins, a broken sword, and some torn leather armor.The building fell silent. Dark Solution''s last defense had been obliterated.---K''s Watching EyeK stood silently on his rooftop, his expression cold as he observed the last of Dark Solution''s leaders fall. He had taken a small measure of satisfaction from seeing their ruin, but his work wasn''t done.The town was still in chaos, and the silver was still flowing.Dark Solution was gone.But Viles Town was far from finished. More blood would be spilled before the purge was over.And K?He would be there, watching it all burn.---


    Note : thief, rouge are sub classes of assasin


    Similarly clerical is sub class Healer


    Special class will be explained in future.


    The streets of Viles Town had transformed into a battleground. There was no longer any distinction between friend or foe¡ªonly the hunt. The air was thick with the stench of blood, and the distant wails of the fallen echoed through the town. The low-level mercenaries and players hunting Dark Solution members had become a horde, each of them hungry for the bounty K had promised.


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    K stood on another rooftop, his gaze unwavering as he watched the chaos unfold below him. This was his doing. The bloodshed, the destruction¡ªit all fed into his desire for revenge. But it wasn''t just about revenge anymore. It was about control, about seeing those who had once ruled the town reduced to nothing. Dark Solution was falling, and there was nothing they could do to stop it.


    ---


    A Rogue''s Last Stand


    Down in the northwestern corner of the town, a Dark Solution rogue sprinted through a narrow alley, his heart pounding in his chest. He had been one of the earlier survivors, but his luck had finally run out.


    He looked over his shoulder to see a group of players hot on his trail. A Level 1 thief darted between the shadows, while a swordsman from another guild was hot on his heels. Behind them, a bounty hunter with an old crossbow was reloading. The rogue''s heart skipped a beat¡ªhe knew the situation was dire.


    The rogue tried to teleport¡ªhis fingers already moving in a familiar pattern, weaving the incantation¡ªbut just as he began the cast, he heard the sharp crack of an arrow.


    > [You have been struck by a ranged attack!]


    [Critical hit!]


    The rogue stumbled, his ankle snapping under the force of the blow, and he collapsed in the alleyway. He couldn''t move, could barely even focus on his escape.


    A shadow loomed above him¡ªSharpJack, the thief who had been hunting him. The rogue barely had time to react before the thief lunged forward with a swift, vicious stab.


    > [Player ''SharpJack'' has slain a Dark Solution member.]


    [1 Silver has been transferred.]


    The rogue''s body went limp, his eyes empty.


    It was just another kill. Another body in the growing pile.


    ---


    The Merchant''s Bribe


    Not far from the alley, a Dark Solution merchant stood in front of a small shop, desperately trying to make a deal. His hands were shaking as he clutched a handful of silver coins¡ªthe last of his stock.


    "I can pay you!" he shouted to a group of nearby players. "I''ll give you everything I have. Just¡ªjust let me go!"


    But the players didn''t even seem to hear him. They surrounded him, eager for the easy kill. The merchant was a low-level, barely capable of defending himself.


    "Take his silver," one of the players said, already rummaging through the merchant''s pockets. "Then kill him."


    Another player, a Level 2 rogue, grinned. "We''ve got silver, but I want more."


    With that, the rogue slashed his blade across the merchant''s throat, the red spray marking the cobblestones. The merchant collapsed, his body twitching as his last breaths escaped him.


    > [Player ''RedCutter'' has slain a Dark Solution member.]


    [1 Silver has been transferred.]


    The group quickly looted his body, taking everything they could find. Silver, potions, food¡ªnothing was left behind.


    Another victim claimed by the bloodthirsty horde.


    ---


    K''s Silent Observation


    K leaned back against the rooftop wall, his eyes cold as he observed the carnage below. He had no need to intervene. The bloodshed was exactly what he had wanted¡ªDark Solution''s defeat was inevitable, but this was the part that filled him with satisfaction: seeing the guild''s enemies turn on each other, seeing the true extent of their destruction.


    K''s mind wandered briefly to the ledger that had ignited his fury. The names, the debts¡ªit was all too clear now that Dark Solution had brought the chaos upon themselves. They were guilty not only of betrayal but of corrupting the very town they had once controlled.


    But now, the townspeople, players, and mercenaries were tearing it all down. The town''s once-pristine streets were now slick with blood, the air thick with the scent of death.


    The shouts of dying players, the cries of victory from the hunters¡ªit was a soundscape of utter destruction. And it was far from over.


    ---


    The Officer''s Desperate Plan


    In a small corner of the town, a Dark Solution officer¡ªthe last of the high-ranking members¡ªhad made one final attempt to rally his remaining guildmates. He had retreated into a deserted tavern, his breath ragged as he fought to keep his panic at bay.


    "There''s got to be a way out of this," he muttered to himself, clutching his weapon. "We can''t just die here¡­"


    The officer paced back and forth, his thoughts frantic. The rest of his guildmates had either been killed or scattered, and now it was just him, a few low-level recruits, and a handful of players trying to finish them off.


    The officer turned to his last two surviving guildmates, both of whom were Level 2 fighters. "We need to make a stand. We can hold them off for a while."


    But one of the recruits, a young mage, was crying in the corner. "We''re going to die here! There''s too many of them!"


    The officer gritted his teeth and slammed his fist against the wall. "We can''t just give up!"


    But his words rang hollow. His eyes darted to the door, where he could see the shadows of players gathering. The tavern''s windows were already shattered, and the sound of footsteps grew closer.


    There would be no escape.


    ---


    The Final Kill


    The officer''s words were drowned out by the loud bang of the tavern door bursting open.


    Players flooded the tavern, their faces twisted in greed and bloodlust. Among them was K, watching with quiet satisfaction. He knew the officer''s last stand would be short-lived, and he was content to watch the guild''s final members fall, one by one.


    A Level 2 swordsman raised his blade high and charged at the officer. The officer fought back, swinging his axe in a desperate arc, but it was too slow. The swordsman dodged the strike with ease and lunged forward.


    The officer had no time to react. With a single, crushing blow, the swordsman''s sword found its mark, and the officer crumpled to the floor.


    > [Player ''IronFang'' has slain a Dark Solution officer.]


    [2 Silver has been transferred.]


    The tavern grew silent. The last officer was dead. Dark Solution had been wiped out.


    K stepped forward, watching the players scramble for the last of the loot, a satisfied smile curling on his lips. The guild that had wronged him was no more. The town was theirs for the taking.

 Chapter 35 sophie entry

    Raven stood in the shadows, his gaze locked onto the streets of Viles Town below him. His heart raced, but not with the fear or anxiety that might have gripped others witnessing such destruction. No, this was a different feeling¡ªa surge of exhilaration, of vindication. His eyes gleamed with cold satisfaction as he watched the bodies of Dark Solution members pile up in the streets, their once-proud guild reduced to nothing more than corpses and shattered dreams.


    He had never truly belonged to Dark Solution. It was a gilded cage, a false paradise of power and control that had betrayed him, dragged him into a web of lies and manipulation. Every betrayal, every wound inflicted on him, every moment of weakness, had been carefully planned and executed by those who had once called him their leader. Now, the tables had turned.


    Raven''s fingers curled into fists as he watched the rogue stumble in the alley, his ankle shattered by a well-placed shot. The man''s desperate attempt to teleport was futile¡ªhe was a broken puppet, struggling in the final moments of his life. SharpJack was swift, merciless, and with one well-timed strike, the rogue''s body went limp. Raven felt a twisted sense of joy flood his chest, the man''s demise playing out like a symphony of vengeance.


    The Dark Solution merchant, trembling as he offered his last silver in a pitiful attempt to buy his life, met the same fate. Raven could almost hear the man''s final gasps as the rogue''s blade sliced through his throat, his blood staining the cobblestones. The merchant had been weak, insignificant. Yet, he had once been part of the machine that betrayed Raven. Seeing him die, just like the others, brought a strange sense of closure. It wasn''t justice¡ªit was something darker, something far more personal.


    The officer, the last remaining high-ranking member of Dark Solution, stood in the deserted tavern, desperately attempting to rally his comrades. Raven could see the officer''s futile attempts to hold his ground, his face twisted with fear and determination. The man had been one of the few who had once been loyal, but loyalty was a fragile thing in a guild built on betrayal. Raven had seen it all¡ªthe backstabbing, the hollow promises, the lies wrapped in the guise of friendship.


    When the final blow came, Raven''s lips curled into a cruel smile. The officer''s death, swift and brutal, was a fitting end to the last remnant of Dark Solution''s twisted hierarchy. The guild''s death throes were beautiful in their simplicity. The town had become a graveyard, a reflection of the guild''s rise and fall. Raven reveled in the carnage, the utter destruction of everything that had once been his.


    As he stood on the rooftop, watching the blood-soaked streets below, Raven felt a cold sense of triumph. Dark Solution had been the source of his pain, his suffering, and his rebirth. Now, they were nothing. No longer a threat, no longer a weight around his neck. The final pieces of his past had been eradicated. There was no turning back now.


    Yet, as the town lay in ruins, Raven''s heart remained heavy. The victory wasn''t pure. It wasn''t clean. It was the aftermath of a battle long fought, but it didn''t bring him the peace he had imagined. The guild was gone, but the emptiness inside him lingered. This had been his revenge, but what came next? Would there ever be a sense of true satisfaction? Or had the cycle of pain and betrayal simply prepared him for a new chapter, one where the only enemy left was himself?


    Raven watched as the last of the Dark Solution members fell. Their bodies sprawled across the town, lifeless and cold. Viles Town was no longer the place it once was. It had been stained by blood and torn apart by the very players who had once thrived within its walls. And Raven, standing atop it all, knew one thing for certain: this was only the beginning.


    Sophie''s eyes widened as she read the guild chat messages, the reality of the situation dawning on her. The chat was flooded with messages confirming that K was the one who had decimated Dark Solution.


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    "K did it."


    "It was K who took us down."


    "We''re being hunted by K''s thugs."


    Sophie''s heart skipped a beat. She had expected chaos, sure, but not this. K, that unpredictable wildcard, had infiltrated Viles Town and dismantled Dark Solution. He had executed it with cold precision, turning the town into a blood-soaked battlefield, and now everyone was talking about it.


    Her mind raced as she processed the situation. K had flipped the narrative, and now Dark Solution was the hunted. Sophie could almost hear the whispers of fear spreading throughout the remaining players. K''s name was synonymous with chaos, and now it carried a weight she hadn''t anticipated.


    Sophie''s fingers hovered over her screen, her thoughts sharpening. This wasn''t something she could let slide. K had made a move, and now she had to respond. She couldn''t let him control the game, not like this.


    She quickly typed a message into the guild chat, her tone cold and commanding.


    "Don''t listen to the rumors. This isn''t the end. We will rebuild. K might have caused this chaos, but we will rise above it. Keep your heads down, and wait for my next command."


    Sophie leaned back, taking a deep breath. This was far from over. She would play this game on her terms. K had made his move, and now she would make hers.


    Sophie''s eyes narrowed as she stared out the tavern window, trying to make sense of the chaos that had unfolded in Viles Town. K, a thug NPC, was the one responsible for the massacre of Dark Solution members. There was no personal vendetta, no backstory linking him to the guild. He was just an NPC. So why was he hunting them with such relentless fervor?


    Why is K targeting us?


    Sophie paced slowly, her mind working through the possibilities. K wasn''t someone they had wronged; there was no personal history between him and Dark Solution. He wasn''t part of some hidden faction, nor was he seeking vengeance for any past conflict. He was just another NPC, one that had suddenly become a deadly force, picking off Dark Solution''s members one by one.


    Her fingers twitched, the frustration rising. K''s actions weren''t random. NPCs in Mortal Online didn''t typically act with such purpose unless they had been triggered by some event. But what could it be?


    Could there have been something in Viles Town that had provoked K? Was there some deeper mechanism in the game¡ªa system designed to punish guilds that were perceived as corrupt or powerful? Or was it something as simple as the chaos Dark Solution had brought to the town, perhaps drawing K''s attention as he hunted down players for sport, or for some programmed directive?


    Sophie''s thoughts raced. Is it a quest? A special event?


    Whatever the reason, K had launched an all-out assault on Dark Solution, dismantling the guild in a matter of hours. She had to figure out why. Was this just part of the game''s world-building, a designed event that had been triggered by Dark Solution''s presence? Or was there something more deliberate at work?


    She clenched her jaw, the weight of the unknown pressing down on her. She had always been in control, always had her plans and contingencies in place. But this? This was beyond her expectations. If K was hunting them because of some hidden game mechanic, she needed to find out before more members fell.


    Sophie''s gaze flickered to the remains of the guild''s chat log. She needed information. There had to be some clue that could explain K''s actions. Until then, she would stay alert, watching for any sign of what would happen next.


    Whatever the reason, I won''t let K''s destruction be the end of Dark Solution. There''s always a way to turn this to my advantage.


    Sophie stood still, the weight of the situation sinking in. She knew she had to turn the tables, to shift the tide in her favor before K''s relentless hunt could wipe out what was left of Dark Solution. It wasn''t just about surviving now¡ªit was about gaining control of the narrative, manipulating the chaos to her advantage. K had created a bloodbath, but Sophie wasn''t one to back down. This could be her chance to reclaim power, even in the face of such destruction.


    Sophie sat quietly, staring at the auction house listing on her screen. The information she had just received hit her like a freight train. Garrett, K''s brother, was dead. The chaos K had unleashed was expected, but what caught Sophie off guard was the fact that the ledger¡ªthe very item she had been trying to acquire through Alex¡ªhad ended up in the hands of someone else, thanks to a recent auction.


    When Garrett had been alive, Sophie had orchestrated the plan to have Alex buy the ledger from him. She knew Garrett''s connections to the underworld and had trusted Alex to handle the transaction. But Alex, being the incompetent pawn he was, had failed in keeping things discreet. After Garrett''s sudden death, the ledger had surfaced in the auction house, where it was quickly sold to the highest bidder.


    She brought it but alex got by k she is so angry he kicked him like a dog in real life then this problem came


    Alex, the pawn she had once used, was now irrelevant. His role was finished. He had failed, and Sophie would make sure he paid the price. But now, the real challenge was getting the ledger back and controlling the chaos before it engulfed the town entirely.


    Her fingers moved swiftly over the keyboard as she started planning her next move.She is planning to turn tables .


    She knew he had ledger by why is he is attacking her she is not getting it.


    So she is planning to ledger from k a lvl 5 this is her opportunity.

 chapter 36 sophie intelligence

    K''s relentless attack on Dark Solution has thrown the guild into chaos, leaving survivors scattered and morale shattered. However, Sophie is not one to let a disaster go to waste. Instead of seeing K as an insurmountable threat, she sees an opportunity to reshape the guild, consolidate her power, and manipulate the battlefield to her advantage.


    K''s relentless assault on Dark Solution was turning the guild into scattered remnants, but Sophie was not one to crumble under pressure. Instead of seeing K as an unstoppable force, she saw him as a weapon¡ªone she could turn against her true enemies. While K hunted ghosts and wasted his strength chasing false leads, Sophie would use the chaos to reshape the battlefield. It wasn''t just about survival. It was about domination.The first step was deception. Sophie knew K identified Dark Solution members through guild tags, gear, and word of mouth. That meant she could control what he saw, feeding him an illusion while hiding the guild''s true strength. She began by hiring mercenaries¡ªskilled solo players and small rogue factions who had no real allegiance but were willing to fight for coin. These mercenaries were given Dark Solution gear, fake DS-style names, and orders to act like fleeing survivors. They spread out across the game world, moving in predictable patterns, drawing K''s attention like moths to a flame. Every time K struck, he believed he was eliminating another DS remnant, but in reality, he was wasting his efforts on nobodies¡ªplayers who didn''t care about Dark Solution''s fate. Worse, many of these mercenaries started resenting K for targeting them, creating a new set of enemies he hadn''t accounted for.But Sophie didn''t stop there. She formed a false guild, one with an almost identical name to Dark Solution, changing only a few letters¡ªD¦Árk S¦Ïlution¡ªjust enough to fool the system but not enough for casual players to notice. This dummy guild was quickly filled with expendable recruits¡ªplayers desperate for a guild, players who barely paid attention to in-game politics. Then, she made sure word of its existence spread. Sophie''s spies leaked information to K''s network, letting him believe that a faction of Dark Solution had survived and rebranded itself under this new name. K, hungry for victory, wouldn''t hesitate to attack. And when he did, he would be eradicating players who were completely unrelated to Sophie''s core forces.However, deception alone wasn''t enough. Sophie needed to reshape the entire playing field, turning the chaos to her advantage. If K was going to weaken a guild, why should it be Dark Solution? Sophie redirected his fury toward other targets¡ªTier 3 guilds, the ones who had always looked down on Dark Solution. These mid-tier guilds were strong enough to be a nuisance but not powerful enough to dominate the game outright. More importantly, many of them had previously profited from Dark Solution''s downfall, absorbing their displaced members and looting abandoned assets.Sophie began a misinformation campaign, spreading rumors that these guilds were secretly working against K, that they were profiting off his hunt, or worse¡ªthat they had hired assassins to take him down. These lies spread like wildfire in public chat, fueling paranoia. At the same time, she sent anonymous tips to K''s network, claiming that certain Tier 3 guilds had "Dark Solution sympathizers" within their ranks. All it took was a few well-timed whispers, a few staged encounters, and suddenly, K had new enemies.But Sophie wasn''t just relying on K''s paranoia¡ªshe actively framed these guilds. Her assassins¡ªloyal players operating in the shadows¡ªbegan attacking K''s forces while disguised as Tier 3 guild members. Their kills were public, their actions loud enough to be noticed. K, already looking for threats, wouldn''t stop to question whether these attacks were orchestrated¡ªhe would retaliate. And once he did, the guilds would fight back, believing K had declared war on them.Now, the battlefield was changing. Dark Solution was no longer the primary target. K was now locked in battle with multiple factions, each believing the other had made the first move. As these guilds fought back, resources drained, and K''s forces suffered, Sophie used the distraction to regroup. The real Dark Solution survivors, the ones she had personally selected, moved unseen, gaining strength while their enemies tore each other apart.Still, that wasn''t enough. K was relentless, and as long as he believed Dark Solution existed, he would keep coming. That''s when Sophie decided to take the deception even deeper. She staged a defection. One of her most trusted players¡ªa high-ranking officer who had been with Dark Solution since the beginning¡ªwas instructed to act as a desperate, broken survivor. Publicly, he began questioning Sophie''s leadership, growing more vocal in chat, complaining about the hopelessness of their situation. Then, at the perfect moment, he reached out to K''s network, claiming to want out.The defector offered inside information¡ªsafehouse locations, supposed plans, hidden supply caches. Every single detail was false, designed to lead K''s forces into empty traps and meaningless locations. If K attacked a supposed safehouse, he would find nothing but an abandoned ruin. If he struck a meeting point, he would arrive to silence. But even worse, the defector embedded himself deeper into K''s circle. K, seeing him as a valuable asset, started relying on his intel.That was when Sophie began feeding K subtle, destructive lies. The defector "discovered" that one of K''s closest allies was secretly working with another guild. He "found evidence" that a few of K''s best players had been leaking battle plans. These weren''t outright betrayals¡ªjust enough whispers to plant doubt. And when things started going wrong for K, he would have no idea who to trust anymore.With every move, Sophie wasn''t just protecting Dark Solution¡ªshe was reshaping the entire war. K was no longer a hunter; he was a tool of destruction, aimed at whoever Sophie wanted eliminated. The Tier 3 guilds were now in a brutal struggle against him, their resources draining as they defended themselves from an enemy they never intended to provoke. Meanwhile, Dark Solution was growing stronger in the shadows, no longer the prey but the unseen hand orchestrating the chaos.And when the time was right¡ªwhen K had exhausted himself fighting battles that weren''t his, when the Tier 3 guilds were weakened beyond recovery¡ªthat was when Sophie would strike. Not to survive, but to conquer.


    Sophie''s Triumph


    Sophie''s smirk widened as she leaned back against her velvet chair, the golden glow of the interface casting eerie shadows across her face. The war map before her was a mess of moving markers, shifting alliances, and battles waged under false pretenses. Every notification that flashed across her screen confirmed what she already knew¡ªK was predictable. He was strong, but he was no strategist. His rage blinded him, making him the perfect tool.


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    She let out a slow, satisfied breath before reaching for the delicate glass of wine sitting beside her. She didn''t particularly enjoy drinking¡ªit dulled the mind¡ªbut tonight felt like a victory worth savoring. The crimson liquid swirled as she took a deliberate sip, her gaze flicking toward the latest report.


    [K has attacked the guild Iron Fang. Estimated casualties: 12+]


    A chuckle escaped her, soft but filled with amusement. "He really is an idiot," she murmured, running a finger along the rim of her glass. Iron Fang had nothing to do with Dark Solution¡ªnot really. But after a few well-placed whispers, some conveniently leaked messages, and a staged skirmish in the wildlands, K had convinced himself they were in league with her.


    And now? He was their problem.


    Sophie exhaled in satisfaction and closed the notification. The groundwork was complete. K was fighting battles she had never asked him to fight, and the Tier 3 guilds were burning their resources trying to survive his wrath. The battlefield was shifting, and for the first time since K''s hunt began, Dark Solution was no longer the target.


    "Phase one is complete," she said, more to herself than anyone else.


    A slow clap echoed from behind her.


    "You really are terrifying when you get like this," a voice drawled.


    Sophie didn''t even turn. She recognized the speaker instantly¡ªVance, one of her most trusted lieutenants. He leaned lazily against the wall, arms crossed, his smirk mirroring hers. Unlike most of her subordinates, Vance understood her plans without needing lengthy explanations. That was why he was still alive.


    "Terrifying?" Sophie mused, taking another sip of wine. "I prefer efficient."


    Vance chuckled. "Sure, let''s call it that. But I gotta ask¡ªhow far are you taking this? K''s already dug himself into a hole, but at some point, he''s going to realize he''s being played."


    Sophie finally turned, tilting her head as she regarded him. "That''s the beauty of it, Vance. By the time he realizes, it''ll be too late."


    She placed her glass down, her fingers tapping lightly against the polished wooden desk. "K isn''t just fighting a war¡ªhe''s becoming a war. He''s pissing off too many people, burning too many bridges. The moment he turns around and sees how much damage he''s done, he''ll realize¡­" Her smirk widened. "There''s nowhere left for him to run."


    Vance let out a low whistle. "Remind me never to get on your bad side."


    Sophie merely smiled. "You wouldn''t survive if you did."


    Then, she stood, stretching her arms before clasping her hands behind her back. "Now then. Let''s move to the next phase."


    Vance raised an eyebrow. "And what''s that?"


    Sophie''s eyes gleamed. "We''re done hiding. It''s time to go on the offensive."


    ---


    K''s Frustration


    The scent of damp wood and spilled ale filled the dimly lit tavern, but K barely noticed. He sat in the farthest corner, his dagger resting on the table as he absentmindedly ran a sharpening stone along its edge. The rhythmic shhhk-shhhk of the blade was the only sound he focused on, drowning out the murmurs and laughter of other players around him.


    Another notification flickered in his interface.


    [Dark Solution sighted near Black Hollow. Estimated forces: 20+]


    K''s grip on the dagger tightened. How many times had he seen the same damn message? And every time he rushed in, every time he struck down these so-called "survivors," he found nothing.


    Empty hideouts. Weaklings who barely fought back.


    It was like chasing ghosts.


    No¡ªit was worse. It was like someone was leading him by the nose, always one step ahead.


    His other hand clenched into a fist against the wooden table. He had been so sure Dark Solution was finished. He had torn through them, shattered their morale, left them in ruins. So why did they still exist?


    His frustration boiled beneath the surface, but K wasn''t stupid. He was starting to see a pattern¡ªone he didn''t like. His targets were too scattered. Their numbers were inconsistent. And more than that¡­


    Some of his allies were dead without ever engaging Dark Solution.


    It didn''t add up.


    K''s jaw tightened. He needed answers. Now.


    A shadow moved near his table. He barely had to glance up to recognize one of his scouts, a thin rogue named Darius. The man hesitated before sitting, his voice barely above a whisper.


    "Got news," Darius muttered, eyes darting around the room.


    K didn''t react outwardly, but his grip on the dagger eased. "Go on."


    Darius leaned forward. "It''s not just Dark Solution you''re fighting anymore."


    K''s gaze sharpened. "Explain."


    The rogue wet his lips. "I''ve been watching the fights, tracking the bodies. Some of these kills? They aren''t yours. Other guilds are moving against you."


    A cold weight settled in K''s stomach. "Which guilds?"


    Darius hesitated. "Iron Fang. Blood Pact. Even smaller factions are getting involved. And the weird part? They all seem to think you started it."


    K went completely still.


    That didn''t make sense. He hadn''t attacked anyone outside of Dark Solution.


    Had he?


    His mind flickered back to the past few days. The ambushes. The attacks that came out of nowhere. The fights that felt a little too easy.


    Realization dawned like a slow, creeping poison.


    "¡­I''m being played," he muttered.


    Darius nodded grimly. "Yeah. Someone''s feeding you false intel, stirring up a war around you. And if I had to guess?" He exhaled. "It''s Sophie."


    K''s heart pounded. He had underestimated her. He thought she was just another scavenger clinging to the ruins of Dark Solution. But no¡ªshe had been the one pulling the strings all along.


    And now?


    She had turned him into her weapon.


    A slow, seething rage built in his chest, but this time, it wasn''t blind anger. It was something sharper. Something colder.


    He slid his dagger back into its sheath, his mind already moving to the next step.


    "Sophie thinks she''s in control," he said, voice low. "She thinks she can use me like a tool."


    A grim smile flickered across his lips.


    "She''s wrong."


    K stood abruptly, his chair scraping against the wooden floor. Around him, his men straightened, watching him closely.


    "Spread the word," he ordered. "N


    o more blind attacks. No more chasing rumors. We change tactics." His gaze darkened.


    "We''re going to hunt Sophie down."

 chapter 37 getting profit

    Sophie''s Calculated Opportunism


    Sophie leaned back in her chair, fingers drumming rhythmically against the wooden table as she scanned the incoming messages. The requests for aid kept pouring in¡ªleaders of once-powerful guilds now reduced to desperate pleas for help. K''s relentless assault had thrown everything into disarray, and the balance of power was shifting. Just weeks ago, Dark Solution had been the hunted, mocked by these very factions. Now, they were the ones on their knees.


    She glanced around the dimly lit war room, the flickering lanterns casting long shadows across the cracked stone walls. Her lieutenants were gathered around a massive table, a detailed map of the region spread out before them. Markers indicated the locations of recent battles, each one a symbol of another guild crushed under K''s rampage.


    "These guilds want our help," Vance said, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. "Are we actually going to give it to them?"


    Sophie''s lips curled into a smirk. "Not for free."


    Vance let out a short laugh. "Figures. What''s the price?"


    She tapped a marker on the map, where Iron Fang had lost nearly everything. Just hours ago, they were a dominant force. Now, they were a shell of their former selves, their leadership in shambles, their members scattered. Soon, they wouldn''t even be worth conquering.


    Her eyes gleamed with amusement as she drafted her responses.


    ---


    To Iron Fang''s Leader:


    "Dark Solution is willing to provide strategic support and coordinated strikes against K. However, war is costly, and we are not a charity. Our price: 500,000 credits upfront, plus 10% of all loot recovered from battle. Additionally, we require a steady supply of high-grade healing herbs and spirit-infused alchemy ingredients from your vaults. You are free to accept or continue watching your guild fall apart."


    ---


    To Blood Pact''s Leader:


    "You require sanctuary? Reinforcements? We can provide both, but security has a cost. In return, Dark Solution demands full access to your alchemy stores, including all high-tier crafting materials, especially those related to potion refinement. A 200,000-credit contribution is also required upfront. If you cannot pay in full, we will accept payment in rare materials, including but not limited to Spirit Lotus, Moonshade Leaves, and Sunfire Essence. These resources will ensure your continued survival. The alternative is watching your members scatter."


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    ---


    To Shadow Reavers'' Leader:


    "You seek intelligence on K''s movements? That information is priceless. Our price: 300,000 credits, plus permanent trade access to your black-market vendors. Additionally, we require regular deliveries of high-tier alchemical components, particularly spirit-infused flowers and energy-condensing herbs. Fail to provide these, and you can fend for yourselves."


    ---


    Sophie sent the messages and leaned back, crossing one leg over the other. The silence in the room was thick with anticipation. Vance let out a low whistle.


    "You''re not just taking their money. You''re stripping them for parts."


    Sophie chuckled, swirling a glass of dark wine in her hand. "Why settle for gold when we can monopolize resources?"


    Her plan was simple¡ªalchemy was the backbone of warfare. Health potions, stamina boosters, mana restorers¡ªall essential for survival in prolonged battles. By controlling the supply, she controlled the battlefield.


    "These guilds are desperate," she continued, her voice smooth, confident. "Right now, they''re focused on staying alive. But once this crisis ends, they''ll want revenge. If we take their money, they''ll hate us. But if we take their resources, they''ll be dependent on us."


    Mark, another of her lieutenants, frowned. "You really think they''ll agree to this?"


    Sophie smirk


    The First Guild Folds


    A sharp knock echoed through the war room, followed by the creak of the heavy wooden door swinging open. One of Sophie''s scouts entered, bowing slightly before speaking.


    "Iron Fang''s leader has responded."


    Sophie smirked, already knowing the outcome. "And?"


    "They agreed. Sent the credits immediately¡ª500,000 in full. They also confirmed access to their alchemy vaults and have begun gathering the first shipment of Spirit Lotus and Moonshade Leaves."


    Vance let out a low whistle, shaking his head. "Damn. That was fast."


    Sophie took a slow sip of her wine, savoring the taste of victory. "Of course, it was. They lost most of their power hours ago. They know they''re finished without us."


    She placed her glass down and leaned forward, her fingers laced together. "Have our people meet with their alchemists. I want an inventory list of every herb, every rare material they possess. No shortcuts. If they''re hiding anything, I''ll know."


    The scout nodded. "Understood."


    Before he could leave, another runner rushed in, breathless. "Blood Pact and Shadow Reavers responded too."


    Sophie raised an eyebrow. "Go on."


    "Blood Pact is hesitating. They say they can provide the credits but need more time to gather the materials."


    Sophie clicked her tongue in annoyance. "Then they''ll pay extra for the delay. Double the alchemy supplies. No exceptions."


    The scout nodded, scribbling down notes. "And Shadow Reavers?" Sophie asked.


    "They agreed to everything but are trying to negotiate for a lower percentage on black-market access."


    Sophie let out a sharp laugh. "They''re in no position to bargain. Tell them the deal stands as it is. If they don''t like it, they can try surviving on their own."


    The scout hesitated. "And if they refuse?"


    Sophie''s smile was cold. "Then we make an example of them."


    Vance chuckled darkly. "You''re planning to take them out?"


    "Not yet." Sophie''s fingers tapped against the table. "Let them struggle a bit longer. If they refuse, we''ll make sure they regret it."


    She stood, stretching lazily before turning to her lieutenants. "For now, focus on securing the resources from Iron Fang. Once we have full control over their alchemy vaults, we''ll move on to the next phase."


    A wicked grin spread across her face. Dark Solution wasn''t just surviving. They were taking over.

 chapter 38 hostile takeover

    A Hostile Takeover Begins


    Hours later, Sophie stood atop a ruined watchtower overlooking the Iron Fang stronghold. Smoke curled from the remnants of their defensive barricades¡ªevidence of their desperation. K had torn through them like a storm, and in his wake, they were nothing more than a guild in name only.


    She turned to Vance, who stood beside her, surveying the scene with amusement. "Iron Fang thinks we saved them," she mused, a smirk playing at her lips. "They don''t realize we''re about to finish what K started."


    Below, Iron Fang''s remaining leadership¡ªbarely a dozen players¡ªhad gathered outside their hall, nervously awaiting their ''allies.'' Dark Solution''s forces were already inside, moving through their storage rooms and taking inventory of everything. It was all happening under the guise of ''protection,'' but Sophie knew the truth. This was not an alliance. This was an absorption.


    She descended the tower steps at a leisurely pace, her boots clicking against the worn stone. As she approached Iron Fang''s leader, a man named Garrick, she could see the exhaustion in his eyes.


    "We''ve done as you asked," Garrick said, his voice tight with tension. "The credits have been transferred, and the first batch of alchemy materials is ready for transport."


    Sophie tilted her head, pretending to consider his words. "Good. But I''m afraid there''s been a slight miscalculation."


    Garrick frowned. "What do you mean?"


    Vance stepped forward, casually unsheathing his dagger. "The deal was our terms, exactly as stated. No delays, no alterations. Yet, we''ve reviewed your inventory, and there are several key materials missing."


    Garrick''s expression darkened. "We didn''t withhold anything! Our stores were raided when K attacked. We barely¡ª"


    Sophie raised a hand, silencing him. "I understand," she said, voice smooth as silk. "Which is why I''m offering a solution."


    She took a step closer, her presence suffocating. "Iron Fang is finished as a guild. You know it. I know it. The only reason you''re still standing is because I allowed it."


    Garrick clenched his jaw, his fists tightening.


    Sophie leaned in, whispering the final blow. "Join us. Or be forgotten."


    Silence stretched between them, the weight of the choice pressing down on him. Behind Sophie, her forces had already begun taking control¡ªstationing themselves at key points, securing the vaults, watching Iron Fang''s remaining members like vultures circling a carcass.


    Garrick swallowed hard. "And if we refuse?"


    Sophie smiled. "Then you become just another casualty."


    He looked around, taking in the unspoken truth¡ªhis people were outnumbered, exhausted, and defenseless. Any illusions of bargaining power had been shattered the moment they let Dark Solution inside their gates.


    After a long pause, he lowered his head. "We''ll join."


    Sophie''s smile widened. "Smart choice."


    She turned to her men. "Iron Fang no longer exists." Her voice rang with finality. "Welcome our new recruits to Dark Solution."


    The Fall of Iron Fang


    The remnants of Iron Fang stood in the ruined courtyard of their once-proud stronghold, their battered banners hanging limply from shattered walls. The air was thick with the acrid scent of burnt wood and blood, a grim reminder of the massacre that had occurred mere hours ago. K had carved through them like a force of nature, leaving only the weak and desperate behind. Now, those survivors had no choice but to look to Dark Solution for salvation.


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    Or so they thought.


    Sophie stood at the top of the crumbling steps leading to Iron Fang''s main hall, gazing down at their broken leader, Garrick, with something between amusement and disdain. His once-imposing figure was hunched, his armor scorched and dented, and his eyes darted between the Dark Solution members spread throughout the courtyard. He wasn''t a fool¡ªhe could see what was happening. Dark Solution hadn''t come as allies. They had come as conquerors.


    Behind Sophie, Vance stood with his arms crossed, a wicked smirk on his face. He had always enjoyed this part¡ªwatching proud warriors realize just how powerless they truly were.


    Garrick took a deep breath, straightening slightly. "We''ve done as you asked," he said, voice carefully measured. "The credits have been transferred, and the first batch of alchemy materials is ready for transport."


    Sophie didn''t respond immediately. Instead, she let the moment stretch, let the tension coil tighter. The sound of armored boots echoed across the courtyard as Dark Solution members moved freely through Iron Fang''s halls, no longer treating it as foreign territory, but as their own. Some had already begun carrying out crates of supplies, stacking them neatly by the gate. A silent declaration that Iron Fang''s possessions were no longer theirs.


    Finally, Sophie spoke, her voice soft, almost sympathetic¡ªbut her eyes gleamed with cruelty. "Good. But I''m afraid there''s been a miscalculation."


    Garrick frowned. "What do you mean?"


    Vance stepped forward, rolling a dagger between his fingers. His tone was almost lazy. "The deal was our terms, exactly as stated. No delays, no alterations. Yet, when we checked your vaults, we found several key materials missing."


    Garrick''s fists clenched. "We didn''t withhold anything! Our stores were raided when K attacked. We barely¡ª"


    Sophie raised a hand, silencing him with a mere gesture. "I understand," she said smoothly, tilting her head. "Which is why I''m offering a solution."


    She descended the steps, moving with slow, deliberate grace. The survivors tensed as she approached, their instincts screaming at them to run, but they had nowhere left to go.


    Sophie stopped just inches from Garrick, looking up at him with a smile that sent a chill down his spine. "Iron Fang is finished as a guild," she said, her voice gentle¡ªalmost a whisper. "You know it. I know it. The only reason you''re still standing is because I allowed it."


    Garrick''s breath hitched, his body rigid with tension. He knew she was right.


    Sophie''s voice dipped lower, just for him. "Join us. Or be forgotten."


    The weight of those words crushed him.


    Garrick swallowed hard, his eyes darting around¡ªsearching for an alternative, an escape. But there was none. His people were outnumbered, their defenses shattered. Dark Solution hadn''t just come for resources. They had come to take everything.


    Behind Sophie, Dark Solution''s forces had already assumed control. Archers stationed themselves along the walls, watching the survivors like vultures awaiting their next meal. Fighters blocked the exits, ensuring no one could slip away.


    There was no battle. No negotiation.


    Just conquest.


    Garrick exhaled slowly, his shoulders sagging in defeat.


    "¡­We''ll join."


    A slow, victorious smile spread across Sophie''s face.


    "Smart choice."


    She turned slightly, lifting her hand in a casual flick of her wrist. The tension in the courtyard snapped. Dark Solution members moved at once.


    Some warriors began dismantling Iron Fang''s banners, ripping them down and tossing them aside like garbage. Others started marking the territory¡ªstaking Dark Solution''s claim over every inch of the fortress. Those who had been Iron Fang moments ago were now being ushered into their new reality.


    They weren''t allies.


    They were property.


    Vance let out a low chuckle. "That''s one down."


    Sophie cast her gaze beyond the ruined gates, her mind already shifting to the next target.


    This was just the beginning.


    The Fall of Crimson Vow


    With Iron Fang crushed beneath her heel, Sophie wasted no time moving onto the next tier-three guild in her path¡ªCrimson Vow. Unlike Iron Fang, they hadn''t yet suffered K''s wrath, but that only meant they were complacent¡ªsoft. They still believed they were safe.


    That mistake would cost them everything.


    The plan was already in motion. As Sophie and her forces marched toward Crimson Vow''s territory, her spies were already inside their walls, spreading misinformation, whispering doubts, and ensuring paranoia festered like a disease.


    By the time she arrived, Crimson Vow''s leadership was already on edge.


    ¡ª


    The gates of Crimson Hold, their fortress, loomed ahead. A once-proud stronghold now doomed by its own arrogance. Sophie could see nervous sentries stationed along the walls, their grips tight on their weapons, their gazes flickering with uncertainty. They had heard about Iron Fang''s fall. They had heard who was responsible.


    They knew she was coming.


    Good.


    Sophie stepped forward, flanked by Vance and a dozen of Dark Solution''s elite. She didn''t bother knocking¡ªinstead, she stopped just before the entrance and waited.


    Seconds passed.


    Then the gates groaned open.


    Elias, Crimson Vow''s leader, emerged with a handful of his officers. He was older, more experienced than Garrick had been. His eyes were sharp, his stance unwavering. He wasn''t going to bow as easily.


    But that didn''t matter.


    Sophie always got what she wanted.


    "You''ve been busy," Elias said coolly, his gaze flicking over her forces.


    Sophie smiled. "So have you."


    A flicker of confusion crossed his face. That was all she needed.


    "You see," Sophie continued, tilting her head, "while you were waiting here, debating what to do about me, your people were making decisions of their own."


    Elias''s brows furrowed. "What are you talking about?"


    Sophie snapped her fingers.


    At that moment, several doors within Crimson Hold burst open¡ªand Dark Solution''s operatives stepped out, weapons drawn.


    The fortress was already compromised.


    The realization hit Elias like a blade to the gut.


    "You¡ª" His hand twitched toward his sword, but Sophie''s voice cut through him like ice.


    "Half of your guild has already surrendered. The other half is considering it." She took a slow step forward, voice dripping with amusement. "You are out of time."


    Elias''s officers shifted uncomfortably, realizing the truth. Their people were already defecting. Some had been bribed, others manipulated, and a few¡­ had simply seen the writing on the wall.


    This wasn''t a war.


    This was a hostile takeover.


    Elias clenched his jaw, but the fire in his eyes was already dimming. He knew there was no way out. Not without losing everything.


    "¡­What do you want?" he asked, voice strained.


    Sophie smiled. "Oh, Elias. You already know the answer."


    His shoulders sagged. Defeated.


    "¡­We''ll join."


    Sophie let the silence stretch, letting him feel it. The weight of his own powerlessness. Then she laughed.


    Behind her, Vance grinned.


    "Two down."


    Sophie turned her gaze to the horizon, toward the next guild.


    Dark Solution was just getting started.

 chapter 39 THE COLLAPSE OF STORM HOWL

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    With Iron Fang and Crimson Vow absorbed into Dark Solution, Sophie wasted no time turning her attention to Stormhowl¡ªone of the strongest remaining tier-three guilds. Unlike the others, Stormhowl was not yet weakened by K''s rampage. They were still intact, still standing tall.


    But Sophie wasn''t interested in waiting for K to weaken them.


    She would break them herself.


    The Setup


    Stormhowl prided itself on strength and loyalty. They were a warrior''s guild, boasting some of the best melee fighters in the region. Their members weren''t the type to surrender easily. But that also made them predictable.


    They believed brute force could solve any problem.


    Sophie would show them how wrong they were.


    Her spies were already inside their ranks, feeding them false reports¡ªwhispering rumors of a secret alliance between Dark Solution and K. The paranoia spread quickly. If Stormhowl believed K would spare Dark Solution, then that meant one thing¡ªDark Solution had sold out every other guild.


    That fear, that seed of doubt, was all Sophie needed.


    The First Strike


    Stormhowl''s fortress, Iron Vale, was built for sieges. Thick walls, reinforced gates, well-trained warriors. A direct assault would be costly.


    So Sophie didn''t attack the fortress.


    She attacked the people.


    Dark Solution''s forces began striking Stormhowl''s members in the field, picking them off in small, calculated skirmishes. But instead of outright killing them, they let survivors escape.


    Each survivor ran back to Iron Vale, bloodied and panicked, spreading the same message¡ªDark Solution was hunting them, one by one.


    Panic grew.


    The fortress became a prison.


    Every time a squad left to gather supplies or train in the wild, they were ambushed. Even those who managed to return never came back whole.


    Fear began to consume Stormhowl''s ranks.


    And then Sophie delivered the final blow.


    The Betrayal


    A week into the siege, Stormhowl''s second-in-command, Rylan, requested a meeting.


    Sophie met him in a secluded grove, just outside Iron Vale''s walls. The moon was high, casting pale light over the clearing. Vance stood at her side, as always, his dagger twirling idly between his fingers.


    Rylan stepped forward, his face grim. "I want out."


    Sophie smiled. Perfect.


    Stormhowl had always prided itself on loyalty. If their second-in-command betrayed them, it would shatter what little morale remained.


    Sophie''s voice was soft, almost comforting. "You''re making the right choice."


    Rylan exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. "I just¡­ I can''t do this anymore. We''re being hunted like animals. Elias refused to listen¡ªhe still thinks we can win."


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    Sophie placed a gentle hand on his shoulder. "Elias is a warrior. He only understands battle. But this? This isn''t a fight." Her smile turned cold. "This is a purge."


    Rylan swallowed hard. He had already made his decision. "What do you want?"


    Sophie leaned in slightly. "I want Iron Vale''s gates open."


    Silence.


    Rylan hesitated¡ªjust for a moment.


    Then, finally, he nodded.


    "It''s done."


    Sophie''s smile widened. "Good."


    She stepped back, watching him walk away, sealing his guild''s fate.


    Behind her, Vance let out a low chuckle. "That was easy."


    Sophie turned toward Iron Vale, where the torches of Stormhowl''s fortress burned against the night sky.


    She laughed.


    "Three down."


    And Dark Solution kept growing.


    The Fall of Iron Vale


    Stormhowl''s fortress gates creaked open just before dawn. The defenders on the walls were exhausted, worn thin by sleepless nights and constant fear. None of them noticed the traitor within their ranks.


    Rylan stood at the gate controls, his hands steady despite the weight of what he was doing. He didn''t look back. If he hesitated, if he faltered, Sophie would kill him just as easily as she had twisted him against his own guild.


    Outside, the shadows moved.


    Sophie''s forces poured through the opening.


    Dark Solution swept through Iron Vale like a silent storm. They were not an army clashing against another in open battle. They were executioners.


    The first wave consisted of assassins and infiltrators, moving through the barracks, slitting throats before their targets could even wake.


    The second wave brought alchemy. A mixture of sleeping gas and vision-obscuring mist spread through the fortress corridors, turning once-familiar halls into a labyrinth of fear.


    By the time the first real alarms were raised, half of Stormhowl''s forces were already dead.


    Elias'' Last Stand


    Elias, Stormhowl''s guild leader, roared orders through the chaos, rallying those who could still fight. Unlike Iron Fang and Crimson Vow, he refused to surrender.


    Sophie admired that about him. It made his fall all the more satisfying.


    Clad in full plate armor, Elias led a final charge, smashing through the encroaching Dark Solution forces with sheer force of will. Every strike of his greatsword sent enemies flying, his movements swift and brutal.


    But bravery meant nothing in the face of inevitability.


    As he cut through yet another attacker, a soft voice whispered behind him.


    "Elias."


    He spun¡ªtoo late.


    A dagger sank into the gap between his armor plates, twisting deep into his side.


    Sophie''s lips were near his ear, her breath warm as she leaned in. "It''s over."


    Elias staggered. He turned, his weapon falling from his grip as the strength drained from his limbs. His vision blurred. He could hear his people screaming¡ªdying¡ªall around him.


    His knees buckled. He collapsed.


    Sophie crouched beside him, wiping his blood from her dagger with deliberate care. "You should have surrendered."


    Elias tried to speak, but his lips barely moved.


    She tilted her head, pretending to listen. Then she smiled.


    And drove the dagger into his throat.


    Iron Vale Burns


    With their leader dead and Rylan having already abandoned them, Stormhowl crumbled. The few remaining survivors threw down their weapons, falling to their knees in surrender.


    Sophie stood at the center of the blood-soaked fortress, watching as her forces rounded up the prisoners.


    She turned to Rylan, who stood at the sidelines, watching in numb silence. He looked like a man who had just realized the depth of his mistake.


    Sophie clapped a hand on his shoulder. "You did well."


    Rylan flinched. He didn''t speak.


    Sophie smiled. "You''ll be rewarded."


    He didn''t answer.


    Sophie laughed, turning away from him.


    "Four down."


    Her gaze lifted toward the horizon, where the next guild awaited.


    Dark Solution wasn''t stopping.


    Aftermath: The Cost of Victory


    The smell of blood still lingered in the air as the last embers of Iron Vale smoldered. Dark Solution''s forces moved methodically through the ruins, looting weapons, supplies, and anything of value before torching what remained of Stormhowl''s once-proud fortress. The battle was over, but the true work had just begun.


    Sophie stood atop the ruined battlements, surveying her new domain. Below her, prisoners knelt in rows, hands bound behind their backs. Some stared at the ground in silent defeat, while others still trembled, unable to process how swiftly their guild had been annihilated.


    Vance stood beside her, flipping a dagger between his fingers. "So, what do we do with them?" His tone was casual, but there was an edge of amusement in his voice. He already knew Sophie''s answer.


    Sophie tilted her head, considering. There were three types of prisoners here: the valuable, the useless, and the problematic.


    The valuable ones¡ªthose with rare skills, good reputations, or potential for leadership¡ªwould be given a choice: join Dark Solution, or die.


    The useless ones¡ªnew players, non-combatants, and those too broken to fight back¡ªwould be stripped of their items and sent away. Their survival was no longer her concern.


    And the problematic ones¡ªthe defiant, the loyalists, the ones who would never stop fighting¡ªwould be made an example of.


    She smiled. "Let''s begin."


    The Execution of Loyalty


    A handful of Stormhowl''s highest-ranking members were dragged forward. Even bound and beaten, they refused to kneel. Their eyes burned with hate, but they were powerless.


    Sophie stepped toward them, slow and deliberate. "Stormhowl was strong," she admitted. "Stronger than Iron Fang. Stronger than Crimson Vow." She met their gazes one by one. "But strength means nothing without power."


    One of them, a female knight named Lara, spat at Sophie''s feet. "You''re a snake. You didn''t fight us¡ªyou poisoned us."


    Sophie chuckled. "And yet, here you are. Bound. Defeated." Her voice lowered to a whisper. "Tell me, what did honor win you?"


    Lara''s jaw tightened. She said nothing.


    Sophie gave a small, almost sympathetic smile. Then, without warning, she drew her dagger across Lara''s throat.


    The knight collapsed, her blood pooling at Sophie''s feet.


    Silence fell over the prisoners. Even those who had been considering resistance now stared in wide-eyed horror.


    Sophie turned back to them, her voice light. "Now then. Who else wants to be a hero?"


    No one answered.


    She gave a satisfied nod. "Good."


    The Absorption of Stormhowl


    With their spirits shattered, the remaining Stormhowl members were given a single chance at survival¡ªswear loyalty to Dark Solution. Some hesitated, but most accepted. They had lost everything. Revenge would have to wait.


    Rylan stood at the back, silent. He had gotten what he wanted¡ªsurvival¡ªbut at what cost? Sophie had promised him leadership, power, a place at her side. But now, as he watched his former guildmates either swear fealty or die, he realized¡­


    He wasn''t her ally.


    He was just another piece on her board.


    Reaping the Rewards


    Vance approached as the last of the prisoners were dealt with. "We looted their vaults. Credits, enchanted gear, a few rare crafting materials."


    Sophie raised an eyebrow. "Anything interesting?"


    Vance smirked. "They had a stockpile of Spirit Flowers and Healing Herbs. Enough to supply an alchemist''s guild for weeks."


    Sophie''s grin widened. This was what she had truly wanted. With these materials, her alchemists could mass-produce potions¡ªpotions she could sell, trade, or use to strengthen her own forces.


    Stormhowl''s legacy wasn''t just its fighters. It was its resources.


    And now?


    They belonged to her.


    She turned to her gathered forces, her voice cutting through the morning air.


    "Four guilds have fallen. More will follow."


    She looked out toward the horizon, where more prey awaited.


    Dark Solution wasn''t just surviving.


    It was devouring.

 chapter 40 warning from frost eye

    Dark Solution''s Rapid Ascent


    A few hours after Stormhowl''s fall, the effects of Sophie''s campaign became undeniable. Dark Solution was no longer a struggling, hunted guild. The absorption of multiple tier-three guilds had swelled their ranks, bringing in fresh blood, skilled fighters, and invaluable resources.


    The game''s guild rankings reflected this transformation. Dark Solution surged past the remnants of third-rate guilds, securing its place as the dominant force in the lower rankings. They had yet to reach true second-rate status, but among average-tier guilds, they were now unmatched.


    Sophie leaned back in her chair within Dark Solution''s new headquarters¡ªa former Stormhowl fortress now repurposed as her command center. The stone walls bore the scars of past battles, yet they now served as the heart of her growing empire. Her eyes flicked over the glowing interface of the guild management screen, where recruitment requests piled up, their power rating soared, and reports from various strongholds flooded in.


    Vance''s smirk deepened as he studied the numbers on the screen. His posture shifted slightly, his fingers drumming against the table in approval. "That''s some jump. We were just barely surviving a few hours ago, and now we''re leading the entire third-rate bracket." A trace of amusement flickered in his gaze. "Think we''ll hit second-rate soon?"


    Sophie''s fingers tapped rhythmically against the wooden armrest as her expression turned contemplative. "We''re not second-rate yet." A pause. Her gaze sharpened, scanning the room. Their numbers had increased, and their influence was growing, but power wasn''t just about numbers. To reach true second-rate status, they needed more than just recruits and looted resources.


    They needed dominance.


    Her shoulders squared as she turned to her officers, each seated around the war table, their attentions locked onto her. "We control multiple territories now, but that''s not enough. Second-rate guilds have infrastructure, supply chains, stable economies. We need to consolidate our power."


    Vance''s head tilted slightly, his brow raising in consideration. "So, what''s next?"


    Sophie''s lips curled into a sharp smile. "We take control of the market."


    A subtle shift passed through the gathered officers¡ªpostures straightening, gazes narrowing in anticipation. The weight of her words settled over them.


    With the Spirit Flowers and Healing Herbs they had looted, Dark Solution could flood the game''s economy with alchemy potions. Health potions, stamina restoratives, and poison antidotes were all high-demand commodities. If she controlled the supply, she controlled who lived and who died in battle.


    And if the second-rate guilds wanted those resources?


    They would have to come to her.


    But there was a problem.


    The most valuable alchemy blueprint¡ªthe one that allowed for mass production of high-grade potions¡ªwas still missing. Rumors swirled about its existence, but no one knew who had obtained it.


    Sophie''s fingers tightened against the table. "The potion blueprint exists. That much we know."


    Vance exhaled sharply. "And no one''s claimed it?"


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    "No one trustworthy," Sophie muttered. "If a guild had it, they would have leveraged it by now. That means it''s either lost, hidden, or in the hands of someone smart enough to keep quiet."


    Her eyes flickered toward the dungeon reports.


    The only confirmed drop of the alchemy blueprint was from a Level 3 Dungeon ¨C Hell Level.


    Sophie''s gaze darkened. "Find out who cleared that dungeon."


    Vance pushed off the table, rolling his shoulders. "I''ll put the scouts on it."


    Sophie exhaled slowly. Someone had the key to their future.


    And she would find them¡ªno matter what it took.


    The Hunt Begins


    Dark Solution''s war room remained tense as officers exchanged reports. The air buzzed with quiet urgency¡ªeveryone knew the stakes. If Sophie could secure the alchemy blueprint, Dark Solution wouldn''t just dominate the market; they''d control the very foundation of warfare in Mortal Online.


    Vance rubbed his jaw as he reviewed the latest system data. "We''ve gone through all dungeon activity. No one has even started raiding a Level 3 Hell-Difficulty Dungeon."


    Sophie''s eyes narrowed. "Not even second-rate guilds?"


    Vance shook his head. "Most players are still too weak. Forty percent of players are Level 2, and the rest are still Level 1. Even the top groups are focusing on farming safe zones instead of diving into something that could wipe them."


    Sophie leaned back, her fingers tapping against the table. If no one had attempted the dungeon, then the alchemy blueprint was still inside, untouched. That was both an opportunity and a problem.


    Lysander, their rogue specialist, crossed his arms. "We know where it is, but clearing a Level 3 Hell Dungeon right now isn''t feasible. The mobs inside will shred any team that goes in underprepared."


    Sophie''s lips curled into a smirk. "Then we need to be the first ones prepared."


    She brought up the map, marking key grinding spots. "We power level our elites. If no one else can reach Level 3, we''ll be the first."


    Vance exhaled, a grin forming. "So we''re going all-in on a dungeon rush?"


    Sophie''s gaze darkened with determination. "We''re not just rushing it." Her fingers tightened on the table.


    "We''re claiming it before anyone else even dares to step inside."


    Raven''s Reaction


    Perched on a crumbling rooftop in Viles Town, Raven overlooked the chaos unfolding below. Fires flickered in the distance, scattered remnants of battles fought and lost. Dark Solution''s banners now hung where Stormhowl''s insignia once stood. Sophie had moved fast¡ªtoo fast.


    His eyes narrowed as he read the latest system announcement.


    > System Alert: Dark Solution has annexed Stormhowl, Black Claw, and Iron Fangs.


    Dark Solution''s power ranking has surged.


    Raven let out a slow breath, his fingers tapping against the hilt of his dagger.


    "So, you''re already making moves, Sophie."


    He had expected her to grow Dark Solution, but using K as her weapon? That was unexpected.


    His lips curled into a smirk. "Smart."


    K''s warpath had thrown Viles Town into turmoil, making it easy for Sophie to swoop in and absorb three struggling guilds. She hadn''t lifted a finger¡ªjust redirected someone else''s destruction to suit her needs.


    Raven admired the efficiency. But that didn''t mean he liked it.


    "She''s building her empire on chaos," he muttered.


    It was the same method Dark Solution had used in his past life. Gain power through destruction, through deception, through manipulation.


    His grip on his dagger tightened.


    "But you don''t even know the real threat, Sophie."


    K wasn''t hunting Stormhowl or the other tier-three guilds. He was after Dark Solution itself.


    And Sophie had just painted a massive target on her back.


    Raven exhaled, standing up. "This just got interesting."


    If Sophie thought she was the predator, she was in for a rude awakening.


    Because K was still out there. And he wasn''t finished yet.


    Sophie stood on the balcony of Dark Solution''s newly acquired fortress, watching as hundreds of new recruits trained below. Stormhowl, Black Claw, Iron Fangs¡ªgone, absorbed into Dark Solution. Their ranks had swelled overnight, but she knew that sheer numbers weren''t enough. Control was everything.


    Vance approached, his posture relaxed but his voice carried a hint of caution. "We''re stabilizing fast. The tier-three guilds are adjusting, and our numbers are solid."


    Sophie gave a slight nod, her eyes still locked on the training grounds. "And K?"


    Vance smirked. "Still hunting. He''s tearing through our old enemies like a mad dog."


    "Perfect." Sophie''s lips curled. "As long as he stays busy, we stay ahead."


    Frost eye]:"Don''t get too comfortable, Sophie.Enjoy your stolen throne while you can.I will destroy you. Haha."Sophie''s grip on the railing tightened, her nails digging into the wood.For the first time since taking over Dark Solution¡ªshe felt a chill creep down her spine.


    Bounty Updated: Frost Eye ¨C 100,000 Credits


    Reason: High Treason Against Dark Solution


    A ripple of shock spread through Dark Solution''s officers. Vance raised an eyebrow. "You''re putting a hundred grand on his head? That''s more than some second-rate guild leaders."


    Log Out


    Raven leaned back in his chair, stretching as the glow of his monitor reflected in his eyes. Sophie had taken the bait.


    A bounty of 100,000 credits on Frost Eye? Predictable. She was ruthless, but she still thought like a queen sitting on a throne¡ªstriking down threats instead of questioning the game board itself.


    He exhaled, shutting the game interface. As the world of Mortal Online faded to black, the familiar log-out screen appeared.


    > [Logging out¡­]


    [Session ended.]


    The game vanished, replaced by the dim glow of his desktop.


    Raven smirked, cracking his knuckles. "Enjoy your throne, Sophie."


    His chair creaked as he stood, stretching. He had time. Let her bask in her moment of glory.


    Because when he returned¡­


    He wouldn''t just take Dark Solution down. He''d burn it to the ground.

 chapter 41 log out

    As Mark pulled off his virtual helmet, he stretched with a groan, rolling his shoulders after hours of gaming. The chaos in Viles Town had been exhausting, but at least it was fun. He reached for his phone when the bathroom door swung open, releasing a wave of steam into the hallway.


    Liz stepped out, wrapped in a plush bathrobe, her damp hair cascading over her shoulders. She was rubbing a towel through it lazily, her expression half-bored, half-amused. When she spotted Mark setting his virtual helmet on the desk, a smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.


    "You finally logged out too?" she asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Mark let out a short laugh, running a hand through his own messy hair. "Yeah. Needed a break from all the madness."


    Liz rolled her eyes, crossing the room toward the couch. "Tell me about it. That town''s a disaster zone. I barely made it out with my gear intact." She plopped down, propping one foot up on the coffee table as she continued drying her hair.


    Mark smirked. "So, you are having fun?"


    She scoffed. "It''s entertaining watching you idiots burn everything down. But next time, you''re tanking for me."


    Mark chuckled as he leaned back against his chair. "Yeah, yeah. Just don''t expect me to babysit you."


    Liz gave him a sideways glance, her smirk widening. "Please. We both know I''d be the one saving you."


    Mark rolled his eyes, tossing a pillow at her. She caught it effortlessly, laughing as she hugged it against her chest. The two sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the only sound being the faint hum of the gaming PCs still running in the background.


    Finally, Liz stretched, standing up. "Anyway, I''m getting snacks. You want something?"


    Mark perked up. "Ooh, grab me some chips."


    Liz shot him a finger gun. "You got it, loser."


    As Daniel pulled off his virtual helmet, he stretched his arms above his head, groaning from the long gaming session. Viles Town had been a complete warzone, but that only made it more fun. He glanced around, spotting Mark lounging on the couch, casually munching on chips.


    Before Daniel could say anything, the bathroom door creaked open again, and out stepped Liz, still wrapped in her fluffy bathrobe, her damp hair slightly tousled. She had a bowl of popcorn in one hand and a bottle of soda in the other, looking completely at ease.


    Daniel''s lips curled into a smirk as he leaned back against his chair. "Well, well, well. If it isn''t our resident goddess, stepping out of the mist like some divine vision."


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    Liz barely glanced at him, popping a piece of popcorn into her mouth. "Shut up, Daniel."


    Mark snorted from the couch, shaking his head.


    Daniel clutched his chest dramatically. "Ouch. No love for the man who risked his life in the chaos of Viles Town?"


    Liz finally turned to look at him, raising an eyebrow. "You mean the same man who got me killed by luring thugs right to me?"


    Daniel grinned. "Ah, but in my defense, I thought you could handle them. You''re always saying you''d be the one saving me, right?"


    Liz sighed, shaking her head. "Remind me why I haven''t kicked you out yet?"


    Daniel winked. "Because you''d miss me too much."


    Liz rolled her eyes and walked past him toward the couch, setting the popcorn down. As she sat, she muttered, "More like I''d enjoy the peace and quiet."


    Daniel plopped down beside her, casually stealing a handful of popcorn. "You say that, but we all know you''d be bored without me."


    Before Liz could retort, another voice cut in.


    "Who''d be bored without who?"


    All three turned as Ana pulled off her virtual helmet, shaking out her hair as she stood up from her chair. Unlike the others, who had been logging out one at a time, Ana had stuck around in the game for a bit longer¡ªprobably chasing down some last-minute chaos before calling it a night.


    She looked between Liz and Daniel, eyes glinting with curiosity. "Wait, are you two flirting again? Should I leave? Give you a moment?"


    Liz scoffed. "Not unless you want to hear me strangle him."


    Daniel grinned, draping an arm over the back of the couch. "She says that, but deep down, she loves the attention."


    Ana plopped onto the couch next to Mark, who passed her the bag of chips without a word. She grabbed a handful before giving Daniel a knowing look. "Honestly, I think you just love annoying her."


    Daniel grinned. "Guilty as charged."


    Ana stretched her arms above her head, letting out a satisfied sigh. "Man, that was fun, though. Viles Town is an absolute mess right now. I saw some poor guy get caught between the thug NPCs and K''s bounty hunters¡ªit was brutal."


    Mark chuckled. "That town is never recovering, is it?"


    Ana shrugged. "Not if we have anything to say about it."


    Liz leaned back, finally relaxing. "At least now I can enjoy some popcorn without worrying about some idiot getting me killed."


    Daniel gasped dramatically. "Wow. The betrayal."


    Ana grinned, tossing a chip at him. "Oh, shut up, you love it."


    As laughter filled the room, the chaos of Mortal Online faded into the background, replaced by the familiar, comfortable energy of their group. No matter what happened in the game, real life in this house was just as unpredictable¡ªand just as entertaining.


    Mark leaned back on the couch, lazily tossing a chip into his mouth before glancing at the others. "So, what level are you guys at now?"


    Liz, Daniel, and Ana exchanged looks before answering almost in unison.


    "Level 2," Liz said, grabbing some popcorn.


    "Level 2," Ana echoed, still munching on chips.


    "Level 2," Daniel confirmed with a shrug.


    Mark smirked and stretched his arms behind his head. "Huh. I guess I''m ahead of you guys, then."


    Liz paused mid-bite, narrowing her eyes. "Wait¡­ what level are you?"


    Mark''s smirk widened. "Level 3."


    Silence.


    Then Ana nearly choked on her chips. "What?"


    Daniel sat up straight, staring at Mark like he had just grown a second head. "No way. How the hell did you get to Level 3 already?"


    Liz leaned forward, her eyes filled with suspicion. "Mark, what did you do?"


    Mark shrugged, enjoying their reactions. "I just played the game. Did some quests, fought some mobs. You know, the usual."


    Daniel squinted at him. "No, no, no. That doesn''t add up. We''ve all been grinding, and we''re still Level 2. Either you found some secret leveling exploit¡­ or¡­"


    A slow, mischievous grin spread across his face.


    Mark frowned. "Or what?"


    Daniel leaned closer, eyes glinting. "Did you¡­ do anything to a female NPC?"


    Mark choked on his drink. "What?! No!"


    Liz facepalmed, while Ana burst into laughter.


    Daniel wasn''t letting up. "I mean, think about it¡ªmysteriously higher level, refuses to explain how, and we know some games have weird NPC romance bonuses."


    Mark groaned. "For the last time, I did not seduce an NPC."


    Liz, still suspicious, crossed her arms. "Then how did you get ahead of us?"


    Mark smirked again. "Guess I''m just better than you."


    Daniel gasped, clutching his chest. "The audacity."


    Ana threw a pillow at Mark. "Tell us the truth, or we''re forming a party just to sabotage you."


    Mark laughed, holding up his hands. "Alright, alright! I found a hidden quest chain in a back alley. It had a bunch of sneaky objectives, and I guess it gave more XP than usual."


    Liz sighed, relaxing. "Okay, that makes sense."


    Daniel shook his head. "Still disappointed it wasn''t NPC seduction."


    Mark rolled his eyes. "You''re never letting that go, are you?"


    Daniel grinned. "Nope."


    The group settled back into their usual banter, but now, Mark had a target on his back¡ªbecause the next time they logged in, Liz, Ana, and Daniel definitely weren''t going to let him stay ahead for long.

 chapter 42 RESTAURANT

    Just as the conversation started dying down, the door swung open, and Celeste walked in, stretching her arms above her head. She glanced around at the group sprawled on the couch, their gaming setup still humming in the background. Bowls of chips and popcorn were scattered everywhere, and it looked like no one had moved from their spots in hours.


    She sighed, walking straight to the fridge and grabbing a soda. "So, how''s the game?"


    Daniel immediately perked up, his grin turning mischievous. "Ah, our lovely landlord finally graces us with her presence."


    Celeste shot him a flat look. "Shut up, Daniel. Just answer the question."


    Mark leaned back, casually tossing a chip into his mouth. "It''s absolute chaos. Viles Town is basically a warzone."


    Ana nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we''ve got bounty hunters running around, thug NPCs attacking a certain guild, and this guy¡ª" she jabbed a thumb at Mark "¡ªsomehow hit Level 3 before the rest of us."


    Celeste raised an eyebrow, taking a sip of her soda. "Oh? And what about me being ahead of all of you?"


    Liz smirked, already sensing where this was going. "Depends. What level are you?"


    Celeste leaned against the counter, completely casual. "Level 1."


    Silence.


    Then Daniel burst into laughter, nearly doubling over. "You''re still Level 1? Oh my god, Celeste, you''re an actual noob!"


    Celeste narrowed her eyes at him. "I barely played, you idiot. I was busy handling real-life stuff."


    Daniel leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his grin widening. "Tsk, tsk. That''s no excuse. But don''t worry, dear Celeste¡ªI''d be more than happy to help you level up."


    Celeste gave him a wary look. "Uh-huh. What''s the catch?"


    Daniel''s grin turned downright devilish. "Simple. Just wear a maid outfit in-game, and I''ll personally power-level you to greatness."


    Mark choked on his drink. Ana laughed so hard she nearly fell off the couch. Liz just facepalmed.


    Celeste, however, remained perfectly calm. She took another sip of her soda, walked up to Daniel, and leaned down slightly so they were face-to-face. Then, with the sweetest smile, she said,


    "Sure, Daniel. But only if you wear a butler outfit and address me as ''Lady Celeste'' the entire time."


    Daniel blinked. "Wait, what¡ª"


    Celeste patted his cheek. "No take-backs."


    The entire room erupted into laughter. Mark and Ana were practically wheezing on the couch, struggling to breathe between their fits of laughter. Liz, who usually kept her reactions reserved, smirked in approval, clearly enjoying Daniel''s rare moment of being outplayed.


    Daniel says he doesn''t need anything so refuses to wear Buttler outfit .


    Restaurant Shenanigans ¨C The Calm Before the Storm


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    After a morning filled with teasing and banter, Mark and Daniel decided to head out for lunch. A few hours of gaming had drained their energy, and nothing sounded better than a good meal.


    "Let''s hit up that diner near the plaza," Mark suggested, stretching as he grabbed his jacket. "They''ve got those massive burgers."


    Daniel grinned. "Say no more. I''m sold."


    Just as they were about to leave, Ana poked her head out from her room. "Where are you guys going?"


    "Grabbing food," Mark replied.


    Ana''s eyes lit up. "Oh? Liz, we''re going too!"


    Liz, who was scrolling on her phone on the couch, raised an eyebrow. "We are?"


    Ana nodded firmly. "Yes. No way I''m missing out on food."


    Daniel smirked. "You just don''t want to cook."


    Ana shot him a finger gun. "Exactly."


    With that, the four of them headed out, walking through the bustling streets. It was the middle of the afternoon, and the city was alive with people going about their day.


    As soon as they arrived at the diner, the smell of grilled meat and freshly baked bread filled the air. The place wasn''t too crowded, so they easily grabbed a booth near the window.


    Mark skimmed the menu lazily. "I''m getting the double cheeseburger. No questions."


    Ana hummed. "I want fries¡­ and a milkshake¡­ and maybe pancakes."


    Daniel gave her a look. "Are you ordering breakfast or lunch?"


    Ana shrugged. "Both. Who cares?"


    Liz, still scrolling on her phone, glanced up. "I''m getting a salad."


    Daniel gasped dramatically. "Liz, we''re in a place filled with burgers, fries, and milkshakes, and you choose a salad? Unbelievable."


    Liz smirked. "Someone has to set a good example."


    Mark rolled his eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Order whatever, just hurry up."


    As they waited for their food, the conversation naturally drifted back to the game.


    "So," Ana said, leaning forward, "tonight''s the big event, huh?"


    Daniel groaned. "Don''t remind me."


    Mark grinned. "Oh, we''re reminding you every second until it happens."


    Liz smirked. "Did you practice your butler voice yet?"


    Daniel rubbed his face. "I hate all of you."


    Ana laughed. "That''s the spirit."


    As their food arrived, the conversation kept rolling, the four of them enjoying their break from the game¡ªthough they all knew that the moment they logged back in, the real fun would begin.


    A Dog on a Leash ¨C Sophie''s Control Over Alex


    As soon as Sophie entered the diner, Mark and Daniel exchanged glances. Without a word, they both knew what to do¡ªact like clueless noobs. If Sophie thought they were useless, she wouldn''t pay them any real attention.


    Sophie''s gaze swept over the group, her sharp eyes quickly dismissing Daniel and Mark as if they weren''t even worth acknowledging. Her focus instead settled on Alex, who trailed behind her like a beaten dog.


    He looked pathetic. Shoulders slumped, head slightly bowed, eyes dull and lifeless. He followed Sophie without question, like an obedient pet waiting for scraps.


    Sophie, on the other hand, carried herself with the same confidence as always. She barely even glanced at Alex, treating him like an afterthought, as if his failure had made him beneath her notice.


    "Tsk," she clicked her tongue, shaking her head in mock disappointment. "Honestly, Alex, I expected something from you. But this? This is just sad."


    Alex flinched slightly but didn''t say a word.


    Mark, still playing dumb, leaned toward Daniel and whispered (loud enough for Sophie to hear), "Uh¡­ is this the part where she makes him roll over?"


    Daniel stroked his chin in exaggerated thought. "Hmm. Maybe she gives him a treat if he does a trick?"


    Ana snorted, barely holding in her laughter. Liz simply sipped her drink, eyes gleaming with amusement.


    Sophie, as expected, didn''t even acknowledge them. She simply sighed, turning to Liam. "Let''s go. I''m done here."


    Liam, as composed as ever, followed without question. Alex hesitated for a split second¡ªjust a fraction of a moment where he looked like he might say something. But then Sophie moved, and like a well-trained dog, he followed without protest.


    As soon as they left, Ana burst out laughing. "Oh my god. He''s so pathetic."


    Mark smirked. "Dude''s basically on a leash."


    Daniel grinned. "Yeah, but the best part? Sophie thinks we''re nobodies. She won''t see us coming."


    Liz leaned back, a satisfied smirk on her face. "Let her underestimate us. It''ll make her downfall even better."


    With that, they finished their meal, already looking forward to what awaited them in Mortal Online.


    A Glance of Disdain ¨C Sophie Underestimates Them


    The moment Sophie entered the diner, her sharp eyes swept over the room, instantly locking onto Mark and Daniel.


    She paused. "You two?"


    Mark, who had been lazily picking at his fries, blinked as if confused. "Huh? Oh, uh¡­ hey, Sophie."


    Daniel stretched his arms with an exaggerated yawn. "Yo. Fancy seeing you here."


    Sophie''s eyes narrowed slightly. "You''re playing Mortal Online?"


    Mark scratched his head. "Yeah¡­ it''s kinda fun, I guess? Still figuring stuff out, though. There are a lot of buttons."


    Daniel nodded, looking equally clueless. "Yeah, man. I tried stabbing someone, but I think I missed. Or maybe I hit them? I dunno, there were too many numbers on the screen."


    Ana covered her mouth to stop herself from laughing. Liz, as composed as ever, just sipped her drink, waiting for Sophie''s reaction.


    Sophie stared at them for a moment, her expression unreadable. Then, she let out a small, amused scoff.


    "Tch."


    With nothing more than that dismissive sound, she turned away, already losing interest.


    Alex, who stood beside her like a scolded dog, barely lifted his gaze. Sophie didn''t even glance at him.


    "Come on," she said to Liam, her voice dripping with boredom. "Let''s go. No point wasting time here."


    Without another word, she walked away, completely writing them off.


    As soon as the door swung shut behind her, Ana let out a low whistle. "Wow. That was brutal."


    Mark smirked. "Nah. That was perfect."


    Daniel grinned. "Yep. She thinks we''re worthless."


    Liz set down her drink. "And that means she won''t see what''s coming next."


    With their act in place, Sophie had officially dismissed them as background noise. But that was exactly what they wanted. Because the moment they logged back into Mortal Online, the real game would begin.


    Note : mark and daneil had nothing so they cannot fight openly to sophie who is rich can do anything

 chapter 43 mark plan

    As Mark, Daniel, Ana, and Liz stepped out of the restaurant, the cool night air hit them, but their minds were still replaying the encounter with Sophie.


    Daniel stuffed his hands into his hoodie pockets, his lips curling into a smirk. "Man, Sophie didn''t even bother to play mind games with us. She took one look and decided we weren''t worth it."


    Ana scoffed. "Yeah, she thought we were just a bunch of noobs who wouldn''t understand what''s going on. Like, seriously? That was just insulting."


    Liz, scrolling through her phone as they walked, smirked. "Honestly, it worked in our favor. If she actually saw us as a threat, she probably would''ve tried something sneaky. Instead, she just ignored us."


    Mark, who had been silent, finally let out a sigh. "And that''s exactly why I want to take her down." His voice was calm but firm.


    Daniel blinked at him before grinning. "Oh? So you''ve got a little revenge streak in you, huh?"


    Mark''s expression was unreadable. "It''s not about revenge. It''s about showing people like her that they''re not as untouchable as they think. She looked at us like we weren''t worth her time¡ªlike we didn''t matter. I want her to realize how wrong she was."


    Ana smirked. "So, we''re proving her wrong with violence?"


    Mark shrugged. "With whatever it takes."


    Daniel whistled. "Damn, I like this new Mark."


    The group turned the corner, approaching Celeste''s mansion. The tall gates stood before them, the warm glow of interior lights spilling from the windows. The place felt like a fortress, a safe haven before the chaos of Mortal Online truly began.


    Without hesitation, they stepped inside. The living room welcomed them with its massive sectional couch, and they all collapsed onto it, stretching out like they owned the place.


    At the far end of the room, Celeste sat in her usual gaming chair, fingers drumming lightly against the armrest. She barely spared them a glance before raising an eyebrow. "Well?"


    Daniel smirked, kicking his feet up. "Oh, don''t worry, Celeste. The world is on fire, and we''re about to make it worse."


    Celeste let out a small, amused exhale. "Good. That means it''s almost time."


    The countdown to Mortal Online''s chaos was ticking down. Soon, Sophie would realize just how wrong she was about them.


    As they settled into the mansion, Mark suddenly sat up, his usual laid-back demeanor replaced with something more serious.


    "Come to my room," he said firmly.


    Daniel, sprawled across the couch, raised an eyebrow. "Ooh, secret meeting? Are we finally forming a cult?"


    Ana smirked. "If there''s no blood ritual, I''m not interested."


    Liz sighed, stretching her arms. "This better not be about grinding."


    Mark didn''t answer, just motioned for them to follow. His tone was serious enough that they exchanged glances before reluctantly pushing themselves off the couch.


    The mansion''s dim lighting cast long shadows as they climbed the stairs, the faint hum of Celeste''s gaming rig echoing from her room downstairs. Mark led them to his room, which was noticeably different from the rest of the house. Unlike the modern, stylish aesthetic of Celeste''s mansion, Mark''s space was neat but packed with gaming gear¡ªmultiple monitors displaying various game forums, a high-end PC humming softly in the corner, and shelves lined with collectible figurines from different franchises. Posters of old MMORPGs covered the walls, remnants of past gaming obsessions.


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    He shut the door behind them and turned, his expression unreadable.


    "You guys need to hit level 3 as soon as possible," Mark said bluntly.


    Daniel flopped onto Mark''s bed, arms behind his head. "Ugh, I knew it was about grinding."


    Ana tilted her head, leaning against the desk. "Why? The game just started. Most players will still be figuring things out."


    Mark sat at his chair, spinning it slightly as he pulled up a game menu on his monitor. The soft blue glow from the screen illuminated his face.


    "I''ve been level 3 since yesterday."


    A brief silence filled the room.


    Daniel immediately sat up. "Wait. What?"


    Ana blinked. "No way. The game launched, like, a day ago."


    Liz crossed her arms. "How the hell did you level up so fast?"


    Mark smirked. "Efficiency."


    Daniel groaned. "Dude, do you even sleep?"


    "Not when there''s a race to win," Mark replied. "The point is, I''m ready. But I''m not going in alone. Once you guys hit level 3, we''re heading straight for Poison Cave."


    The room fell into stunned silence.


    Daniel finally spoke. "Wait. Hold on. Did you just say Poison Cave?"


    Ana frowned. "You mean the one with the venomous mobs and poison traps everywhere?"


    Liz shook her head. "That''s not a dungeon; that''s a damn graveyard."


    Mark leaned back, arms crossed. "Exactly. No one else will touch it this early. But if we go in first and clear it out, we''ll get all the loot and XP before the rest of the server even considers it."


    Daniel let out a low whistle, his grin returning. "Risky play, dude. I like it."


    Ana sighed, then smirked. "Alright, screw it. Let''s do it."


    Liz ran a hand through her hair, shaking her head. "You guys are insane. But fine, I''m in."


    Mark''s smirk widened. "Good. Then let''s get to grinding."


    The countdown to Mortal Online''s chaos was ticking down, and soon, they''d be the first to conquer what everyone else feared.


    Mark''s Plan


    Mark leaned back in his chair, arms crossed as the others reacted to his proposal.


    Daniel looked intrigued but skeptical. "Alright, I get the whole ''rushing ahead'' thing, but why Poison Cave? Isn''t that place just full of annoying status effects and death?"


    Ana nodded. "Yeah, I don''t see why we''d bother when there are easier grinding spots."


    Liz, ever the cautious one, raised an eyebrow. "Unless you know something we don''t."


    Mark smirked but didn''t respond immediately. Instead, he pulled up another map on his monitor, zooming in on a large, ominous-looking dungeon.


    The Serpent''s Hollow.


    While most players were still stumbling through the early-game areas, Mark had already researched the high-level dungeons scattered across Mortal Online.


    And Serpent''s Hollow was a death trap.


    Most players wouldn''t be able to clear it¡ªbecause they didn''t know the real mechanics.


    Mark''s fingers tapped against the desk. The final boss of the dungeon¡ªthe Venomfang Matriarch¡ªwas practically unkillable without poison immunity. The entire room was filled with a deadly toxin, and anyone without the right resistance would be dead in seconds.


    And where did you get the only known Poison Resistance Potion blueprint in the game?


    Poison Cave.


    It didn''t just drop a potion¡ªit dropped the alchemy recipe to craft it. That meant even if someone else looted the cave, they''d only get a one-time-use potion, while Mark''s team would have unlimited access if they secured the blueprint.


    Most players wouldn''t figure this out until they reached the dungeon, died repeatedly, and started looking for solutions. But by then, the first clear rewards would already be gone.


    Mark wasn''t about to let that happen.


    He turned back to his friends, eyes sharp. "Poison Cave isn''t just a random grinding spot. It drops the Poison Resistance Potion blueprint. With that, we can craft as many as we need."


    Daniel''s eyes widened slightly. "Wait¡­ so the dungeon is basically impossible without it?"


    Mark nodded. "Unless you want to suffer. Most players won''t realize this until it''s too late."


    Ana grinned. "So, if we get the blueprint first¡­"


    Liz smirked. "We''ll be the only ones with a steady supply of resistance potions."


    Mark leaned forward. "Exactly."


    For a moment, silence filled the room. Then, Daniel let out a low whistle. "Okay, yeah. That''s actually a damn good plan."


    Ana stretched her arms. "Welp, guess we''re grinding, then."


    Liz sighed but had a small smile. "You do realize we''re going to suffer in that cave, right?"


    Mark grinned. "Only if we do it wrong."


    Daniel laughed. "Alright, you nerd. Let''s do this."


    The plan was set. Now, all that was left was execution.


    Mark''s Thoughts


    As the others left his room, chatting excitedly about their plan, Mark remained seated, staring at his monitor. The faint glow of the screen reflected in his eyes, but his mind was elsewhere.


    Now that he was alone, he let out a slow breath, leaning back in his chair.


    In his past life, he had been just like everyone else¡ªclueless, struggling through Mortal Online without any real direction. He had gone in blind, exploring aimlessly, dying to things he didn''t understand, wasting time on inefficient grinding spots. By the time he had realized how the game truly worked, the top players had already pulled ahead, hoarding rare resources and controlling key locations.


    He remembered the frustration. The helplessness of watching other players clear content effortlessly while he was stuck repeating the same mistakes. The feeling of being left behind, of knowing that no matter how hard he tried, he was always a step too late.


    Not this time.


    This time, he knew the secrets before anyone else.


    He tapped his fingers against the desk, thinking about their next move.


    Poison Cave is just the first step.


    In his past life, most players ignored it. The enemies inside weren''t just strong¡ªthey were relentless. The status effects, the venomous creatures, the constant resource drain¡ªit had been a nightmare. By the time people realized its importance, it was too late. The strongest guilds had already monopolized it, controlling access to the Poison Resistance Potion.


    Mark had been one of those players who found out too late. He had struggled through Serpent''s Hollow, dying repeatedly because he didn''t have the resistance potion. He had blamed himself for being under-leveled, for not dodging properly, for not playing better¡ªwhen in reality, he had never stood a chance. The dungeon was designed to be impossible without poison immunity.


    Now, with his knowledge, things were different.


    If we clear Poison Cave first, we''ll have the blueprint before anyone else¡­ but what if other players notice?


    The moment word got out, competition would skyrocket. And the last thing Mark wanted was to deal with opportunistic guilds swarming the area, trying to take the blueprint for themselves.


    He exhaled sharply, glancing at the clock.


    They had a limited window before the game''s first wave of competitive players caught up.


    We need to do this fast.


    Mark cracked his knuckles and stood up. The others were already logging in, preparing for the grind.


    He closed his eyes for a moment, pushing aside the lingering exhaustion. Then, with a final glance at his screen, he smirked.


    This time, I''m ahead of the game.


    With that, he turned off the light and headed downstairs to join the others.

 chapter 44 ALCHEMY ACADEMY

    A Familiar Threat Returns


    Mark stood still for a moment, his mind racing.


    Dark Solution is already at the top?


    In his past life, he had been just another struggling player, watching as guilds like Dark Solution dominated early-game territories. But this time, he had used K¡ªa walking storm of vengeance¡ªto tear them apart before they could establish themselves.


    Yet despite that¡­ they were thriving.


    His fingers curled into a fist.


    How?


    He had set the pieces in motion perfectly. K was systematically hunting Dark Solution members, turning their leveling spots into warzones. By all logic, they should have been in disarray. But instead, they had adapted¡ªno, someone had adapted for them.


    And there was only one person who could have done that.


    Sophie.


    Mark''s jaw tightened. He hadn''t planned for this. In his past life, Sophie had been a background figure until much later, but now, she had recognized the threat and maneuvered around it.


    She wasn''t just surviving K''s onslaught¡ªshe was using it to her advantage.


    Damn it¡­


    Mark didn''t know exactly how she had turned the situation around, but one thing was clear¡ªDark Solution wasn''t collapsing. They were consolidating.


    If they kept this momentum, it wouldn''t be long before they became even stronger than in his past life.


    He exhaled sharply.


    Fine. If she wants to play, I''ll play.


    This wasn''t over. Not by a long shot.


    But first¡ªPoison Cave.


    Without wasting another second, he pulled up his party menu and sent out invitations.


    Mark: "Log in. We need to move."


    The game had changed. Now, it was his turn to adapt.


    Raven strode through the crowded streets of Viles Town, his steps steady as he approached the Alchemy Academy. The towering structure stood in stark contrast to the rest of the town¡ªits massive stone pillars, intricate golden inlays, and glowing alchemical runes gave it an aura of mystique. Smoke curled from chimneys atop the academy, carrying the scent of burnt herbs, bubbling concoctions, and magical reagents.


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    Even before he reached the entrance, he heard the frustrated voices of players gathered outside.


    > "One gold coin per attempt? That''s ridiculous!"


    > "I barely have five silver to my name. How the hell am I supposed to afford this?"


    > "Alchemy is a scam, man. Even if you pass, the ingredients cost a fortune. It''s not worth it."


    > "It''s too damn hard. They expect us to identify rare herbs, mix potions perfectly, and solve puzzles. This isn''t a game¡ªit''s a university degree!"


    Raven''s gaze swept across the crowd. Players slumped on benches, some shaking their heads in disbelief. A few paced back and forth, their faces twisted in frustration. One man clutched his hair and muttered to himself, clearly having failed multiple times.


    A player clad in leather armor¡ªlikely a rogue class¡ªleaned against a nearby wall, arms crossed. His tone was bitter as he spoke to his friend.


    > "I went in, man. Thought I had a chance. First part seemed easy¡ªjust identify some ingredients. But they threw in fakes, and I got tricked. Failed instantly."


    > "So, you lost a whole gold coin just like that?" his friend asked, wide-eyed.


    > "Yeah. And guess what? No retries without another gold."


    His friend let out a low whistle. "Damn. That''s brutal."


    A female player, dressed in mage robes, groaned and buried her face in her hands. "I got to the potion-making part. I thought I followed the recipe correctly, but the moment I stirred the cauldron¡ªit exploded! Trial over, one gold gone."


    Raven barely reacted to their complaints. If anything, he found their defeatist attitude pathetic.


    > They''re so short-sighted.


    Most of these players were still thinking like casual gamers¡ªexpecting instant rewards, unwilling to invest in skills that didn''t offer immediate payoffs. Alchemy wasn''t about quick profits. It was about control. A powerful alchemist could manipulate the economy, craft rare potions, and hold power over others.


    And power was what Raven sought.


    Without slowing his pace, he walked past the dejected players, ignoring the ones who looked at him with pity.


    > "Poor guy''s about to waste a gold coin."


    > "Bet he doesn''t last five minutes."


    > "Maybe he''s rich. Or just stupid."


    Their words meant nothing. Raven didn''t care for their opinions.


    He stepped toward the massive stone entrance, where an ornate announcement board stood tall. Carved into the board in elegant runes was the official message:


    Alchemy Apprentice Trials ¨C 1 Gold Coin per Attempt. No Refunds.


    No tricks. No sugarcoating. One attempt. One shot. No safety net.


    Raven reached into his inventory, pulled out a shimmering gold coin, and flicked it between his fingers as he entered the academy.


    ---


    Inside the Alchemy Academy


    The transition from the noisy streets to the academy''s interior was almost jarring.


    Inside, the air was thick with the scent of herbs and alchemical smoke. The polished marble floor reflected the glow of enchanted lanterns hanging from the ceiling. Bookshelves stretched high, filled with ancient alchemical texts, some bound in leather, others glowing with mysterious energy.


    Along the walls, large cauldrons bubbled, each brewing a different concoction. NPC apprentices moved between them, carefully stirring the mixtures while murmuring incantations.


    At the center of the room, behind a grand oak desk, stood Head Alchemist Varian.


    Varian was an elderly man, tall and imposing despite his age. His long silver hair was tied neatly behind his back, and his sharp emerald eyes held a piercing intelligence. He wore deep green robes, embroidered with golden runes that pulsed faintly. Unlike most NPCs, there was a presence about him¡ªsomething more than just a scripted character.


    The moment Raven entered, Varian''s gaze snapped toward him. He didn''t speak immediately. He simply watched.


    Raven walked forward, his pace unhurried, until he reached the desk.


    Varian finally sighed, shaking his head.


    > "Another one?" he muttered. His voice was calm, but there was an unmistakable hint of annoyance.


    He leaned forward, resting both hands on the desk. His eyes analyzed Raven, as if trying to see through him.


    > "You don''t look like an alchemist," Varian said flatly.


    Raven met his gaze without hesitation. "Looks are deceiving."


    Varian arched an eyebrow, amused. "Are they now?"


    There was something different in the way he looked at Raven. Not dismissive, like he had been with the others. Curiosity flickered in his expression.


    > Does he sense something? Raven wondered.


    The old alchemist glanced toward the entrance, where he could still hear the murmurs of failed players outside. He exhaled sharply, shaking his head.


    > "I''ve seen more ''apprentices'' than I care to count today," Varian muttered. "All of them eager, all of them convinced they could pass. None of them did."


    Raven didn''t respond.


    Varian eyed the gold coin in Raven''s hand, then looked back up at him.


    > "You understand the terms?" he asked. "One gold coin. One attempt. No second chances."


    Raven didn''t hesitate. He placed the gold coin onto the oak counter between them.


    The moment the coin touched the wood, it vanished, absorbed into the academy''s system.


    Varian studied Raven again, his emerald eyes narrowing slightly.


    > "Hmph." A small, almost imperceptible smile tugged at the corner of his lips. "Interesting."


    Raven felt it then¡ªthe shift in atmosphere.


    Varian had been disinterested before. Dismissive.


    Now, he was intrigued.


    The head alchemist straightened, brushing a hand over his robe. His posture had changed. He was no longer treating Raven like a random nobody walking in off the streets.


    > "Very well," Varian said. "Let''s see if you have what it takes."


    A golden rune appeared beneath Raven''s feet. The trial had begun.

 chapter 45 trail 1 and hidden test

    The Alchemy Trial Begins


    As the golden rune beneath Raven''s feet pulsed, a faint hum filled the air. The surrounding space blurred for a moment before shifting¡ªthe grand hall of the academy vanished, replaced by a dimly lit chamber lined with shelves of alchemical ingredients.


    The chamber was circular, its stone walls engraved with ancient alchemical symbols that pulsed with faint blue light. A long wooden table stood at the center, covered with dozens of vials, herbs, minerals, and liquids¡ªsome glowing, others dull, a few emitting faint trails of smoke.


    Across from Raven, an old man in dark robes stood silently. His gray beard was neatly trimmed, and his eyes gleamed with sharp intelligence. His robes bore the emblem of the Alchemy Academy, marking him as the Trial Proctor.


    Varian''s voice echoed from nowhere, his tone smooth and steady.


    > "Your first test: Ingredient Identification."


    The Trial Proctor finally spoke, his voice dry and emotionless.


    > "Before an alchemist can create, they must first understand."


    "On this table lie twenty ingredients¡ªsome common, some rare, some¡­ entirely fake."


    "Your task: Identify which are real and which are forgeries."


    His expression darkened slightly.


    > "However, there''s a catch."


    The air in the room grew heavier.


    > "For each mistake, a penalty will be applied. Too many errors, and you fail the trial."


    ---


    The Challenge: Fake Ingredients


    Raven''s gaze swept across the table. The sheer variety of ingredients was overwhelming. Dried herbs, shimmering minerals, bubbling liquids, glowing powders¡ªsome he recognized immediately, others were completely unfamiliar.


    But Raven wasn''t panicked.


    > I expected something like this.


    He reached out and picked up a small purple flower, its petals slightly curled inward. The moment he touched it, the texture felt off¡ªtoo smooth, almost like wax.


    > "Fake."


    The Trial Proctor gave a small nod, expression unreadable.


    Raven placed the fake flower in the discard pile and moved on.


    Next, he picked up a small vial of green liquid. It bubbled faintly, but the consistency looked strange¡ªtoo thick, almost gelatinous. He swirled the vial, watching how the liquid moved. A true potion of this kind should have separated slightly, but this one remained uniform.


    > "Fake."


    Another nod from the Trial Proctor.


    The murmurs of distant voices¡ªfailed participants¡ªechoed faintly through the chamber walls.


    > "I got tricked by the silver dust! It looked real¡­"


    "Damn it! I was so sure that was a real frost lotus¡­"


    "The test is impossible. Some of these ingredients look identical to real ones."


    Raven ignored them. He was making progress, but the challenge was escalating.


    ---


    A Trick Within the Trial


    As he examined a small pile of black powder, Raven felt something was¡­ off. It looked like ground obsidian¡ªa common alchemical catalyst¡ªbut something nagged at him.


    > It''s too perfect.


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    Real ground obsidian was never uniform¡ªthe crushed rock varied in texture. This powder, however, was too fine, too consistent.


    > This isn''t obsidian.


    He ran a finger through the powder, then brought it close to his nose.


    > No scent.


    Real ground obsidian had a faint earthy, mineral smell. This? Nothing.


    > "Fake."


    The Trial Proctor''s eyes narrowed slightly, but he nodded.


    > "Clever."


    Raven moved forward, his process smooth and methodical. One by one, he sorted real from fake.


    Moonroot Extract? Real¡ªits faint glow pulsed in intervals.


    Phantom Orchid? Fake¡ªreal ones wilted slightly when touched.


    Fire Lotus Petal? Real¡ªthe edges curled inward when exposed to warmth.


    ---


    Final Test: The Decoy Ingredient


    Raven reached the last vial.


    It contained a swirling blue liquid, thick but smooth, shimmering faintly in the lantern''s glow.


    > It looks real.


    He carefully observed the label: Elixir of Lunar Clarity. A rare ingredient used in advanced mana potions.


    Everything about it seemed perfect.


    But then he hesitated.


    Something was too perfect.


    Every other ingredient, even the real ones, had small imperfections¡ªcracks, inconsistencies, slightly different shades. But this vial? It looked flawless.


    Raven narrowed his eyes.


    > It''s a trap.


    The final ingredient wasn''t fake¡ªbut it wasn''t real either.


    > It''s artificially enhanced. A potion made to deceive those who only judge by sight.


    A small smirk touched Raven''s lips.


    > "This is a counterfeit alchemical extract," he said. "Not fake¡ªbut altered to appear more valuable than it actually is."


    The Trial Proctor''s expression finally shifted¡ªa flicker of acknowledgment.


    > "Impressive."


    The air in the chamber shimmered. The table and ingredients vanished.


    Varian''s voice echoed once more.


    > "The first test is complete."


    A notification appeared in Raven''s interface.


    [Trial Stage 1: Ingredient Identification ¨C PASSED]


    The golden rune beneath his feet pulsed again.


    > "Let us see if you can handle what comes next."


    The chamber shifted, darkness swallowing him whole.


    ---


    As the golden rune beneath Raven''s feet pulsed, the dimly lit chamber remained silent. The Trial Proctor stood motionless, his piercing gaze watching Raven''s every move. Though he had passed the first trial, the air in the room remained heavy.


    Something was off.


    The test should have ended by now.


    Instead, a faint mechanical click echoed through the chamber.


    Raven''s eyes flicked toward the Trial Proctor, who remained impassive. But in that instant, the shelves along the walls shifted slightly, as if something unseen had been triggered.


    A voice, deep and calm, resonated through the chamber.


    > "You''re sharp. Let''s see how sharp."


    Varian.


    Raven''s fingers twitched slightly.


    > He''s still watching.


    The test wasn''t over. It had only just begun.


    ---


    A Subtle Manipulation


    The shelves slid open, revealing another set of ingredients.


    At first glance, they were identical to the ones from the previous test¡ªsame vials, same powders, same glowing extracts. But Raven wasn''t fooled.


    > Something has changed.


    He swept his gaze over the table, taking his time.


    The Trial Proctor finally spoke.


    > "One mistake. Just one."


    "That''s all it takes to fail."


    The words were measured, almost challenging.


    Raven ignored him. His focus was on the small, nearly imperceptible changes to the ingredients before him.


    The Fire Lotus Petal no longer curled inward when exposed to warmth.


    The Moonroot Extract pulsed at irregular intervals instead of its normal rhythmic glow.


    The Black Obsidian Powder, which had been fake before, now had tiny mineral imperfections, making it seem real.


    > He''s changed them.


    Varian hadn''t simply repeated the test. He had tampered with it, adjusting the properties of the ingredients just enough to force a mistake.


    This wasn''t a standard trial.


    This was a personal challenge.


    A test beyond the normal Alchemy Apprentice Trial¡ªone that no other participant had faced.


    ---


    Raven''s Understanding


    Raven exhaled slowly, allowing the pressure to settle.


    > He''s watching how I react.


    He wasn''t expected to simply repeat the correct answers from before. Varian wanted to see if he could adapt¡ªto recognize that something had changed and respond accordingly.


    > If I rush, I fail.


    If I assume things are the same, I fail.


    A slow smirk touched Raven''s lips.


    > Nice try.


    Carefully, he reached for the Fire Lotus Petal and rolled it between his fingers. The surface felt identical to the previous one. But when he exposed it to warmth, it didn''t react.


    > Fake.


    Instead of discarding it immediately, Raven hesitated.


    > No¡­ not just fake. It''s been treated with something.


    A thin, nearly invisible film of alchemical residue coated the petal, suppressing its natural reaction. A lesser alchemist might have assumed it was real and missed the subtle interference.


    He placed it in the fake pile.


    The Trial Proctor gave no reaction.


    Raven moved on.


    ---


    A Hidden Trap


    The next item was the Black Obsidian Powder¡ªpreviously fake, but now looking real.


    Raven scooped a small amount onto his fingertips.


    At first, it seemed correct. Tiny mineral flecks gave it a natural appearance, the texture felt right, and it even had a faint earthy scent that was missing before.


    But Raven wasn''t convinced.


    He rubbed the powder between his fingers.


    > Too smooth.


    Real ground obsidian had tiny, almost imperceptible sharp edges that made it feel slightly gritty. This? It felt refined, too uniform¡ªas if someone had altered it just enough to make it seem real.


    > It''s not fake. It''s manufactured.


    He smirked.


    > "Synthetic obsidian."


    The Trial Proctor''s expression finally shifted¡ªjust slightly.


    > "Oh?"


    Varian''s voice resonated through the chamber again.


    > "Clever. But how do you know?"


    Raven''s smirk widened.


    > "Because it''s too real."


    He flicked the powder into the fake pile without hesitation.


    Varian chuckled softly, his amusement evident.


    > "Interesting."


    ---


    The Last Challenge


    There was only one item left.


    A small glass vial filled with a swirling violet liquid.


    At first glance, it looked exactly like a High-Grade Mana Extract¡ªone of the most valuable alchemical ingredients.


    The color was correct.


    The viscosity was perfect.


    The magic aura was faint but present.


    Even Raven had to admit, it was flawlessly crafted.


    > But that''s the problem.


    He stared at it for several long seconds.


    Then, slowly, he placed it in the fake pile.


    The Trial Proctor raised an eyebrow.


    > "Why?"


    Raven''s eyes gleamed.


    > "Because it''s real."


    A beat of silence.


    Varian chuckled again.


    > "And?"


    > "Because it''s too real."


    Raven''s tone was confident.


    > "This is a real High-Grade Mana Extract¡­ but it was placed here as a trick. Every other test was about identifying fakes¡ªthis one was meant to make me doubt myself."


    > "The only correct answer¡­ was to recognize the test itself had changed."


    For a moment, absolute silence filled the chamber.


    Then, a slow clap echoed.


    The Trial Proctor, for the first time, smiled slightly.


    Varian''s voice followed, smooth and intrigued.


    > "Well played."


    The chamber shimmered, and the golden rune beneath Raven''s feet flared to life.


    A system notification appeared.


    [Trial Stage 1: Hidden Test ¨C PASSED]


    As the light engulfed him, Raven''s mind was already shifting forward.


    Varian wasn''t just testing his skill.


    He was evaluating something deeper.


    > He sees potential in me.


    And if Varian was this interested, then that meant¡­


    > The next trial will be even worse.

 chapter 46 trail 2

    The Brewing Trial Begins ¨C A Test of Precision


    The golden rune beneath Raven''s feet pulsed one final time before the chamber shifted.


    The stone walls rippled like water, distorting as if reality itself was being rewritten. When the surroundings settled, Raven found himself standing in a completely different room.


    This chamber was smaller, more intimate, yet lined with towering bookshelves filled with ancient tomes, loose parchment, and alchemical scrolls. A long, polished wooden table stretched across the room, and atop it rested a single cauldron¡ªits iron surface marked with intricate runes that faintly pulsed in rhythm with the trial''s magic.


    The scent of herbs, charred wood, and faint traces of mana filled the air.


    Across the room, standing with his hands clasped behind his back, was the Trial Proctor. His expression was unreadable, but there was a subtle change in the atmosphere.


    > This wasn''t a normal test.


    And Raven knew why.


    Varian had taken personal interest in him.


    The brewing trial wouldn''t be just about making a potion. Something was going to be different.


    > And he wants to see if I''ll notice.


    ---


    The Challenge: The Potion of Lunar Clarity


    The Trial Proctor finally spoke, his voice carrying the weight of authority and expectation.


    > "Brewing is the heart of alchemy. Ingredients alone are nothing without the hands to shape them."


    He gestured toward the cauldron.


    > "You will be crafting a Potion of Lunar Clarity."


    A flicker of recognition flashed through Raven''s mind.


    > A potion that enhances mental clarity and temporarily boosts mana regeneration.


    Not an easy brew.


    The Trial Proctor continued.


    > "The process must be followed precisely. Any deviation, any miscalculation¡ª"


    His sharp gaze met Raven''s.


    > "¡ªand the potion will fail."


    > "You have ten minutes."


    A system notification appeared in Raven''s interface.


    [Alchemy Trial: Stage 2 ¨C Brewing Test]


    Objective: Successfully brew a Potion of Lunar Clarity within the given time.


    Time Limit: 10 minutes.


    Warning: One failed attempt ends the trial.


    The pressure in the room increased.


    ---


    The Process Begins


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    Raven didn''t hesitate.


    Stepping forward, he took a moment to analyze the workspace. Everything he needed was neatly arranged on the table:


    Moonroot Extract (core ingredient)


    Silverleaf Powder (stabilizer)


    Frostpetal Essence (enhances purity)


    Arcane Dew (mana-conductive agent)


    Aether-infused Water (base)


    The cauldron was already filled with the Aether-infused Water, its surface shimmering faintly.


    > Good. That means I can start immediately.


    Raven took a deep breath. He had a system.


    1. Heat the base ¨C Temperature control was critical. Too much heat, and the potion would destabilize.


    2. Introduce Moonroot Extract ¨C Let it simmer until the color deepened.


    3. Add Silverleaf Powder in increments ¨C Pour too fast, and the reaction would fail.


    4. Stir at precise intervals ¨C Too slow or too fast, and the potion would separate.


    5. Finish with Arcane Dew ¨C The final step. A single mistake here would render the entire brew useless.


    > No mistakes. No hesitation.


    Raven adjusted the heat of the cauldron, watching as the Aether-infused Water started to shimmer. When the temperature stabilized, he reached for the Moonroot Extract.


    He measured exactly 15ml before pouring it in.


    The water darkened, shifting from a faint blue to a rich, deep violet.


    > Perfect.


    Now came the first real test.


    ---


    The First Trap ¨C A Subtle Sabotage


    As Raven reached for the Silverleaf Powder, his fingers hesitated.


    Something was¡­ off.


    He had used Silverleaf Powder before. He knew its texture¡ªit was fine, almost weightless, with a faint silvery sheen. But this?


    > It''s too dull.


    His mind instantly pieced it together.


    It wasn''t Silverleaf Powder.


    Varian had switched it.


    > A fake ingredient¡ªone that looks identical but has no stabilizing effect.


    Raven''s lips curled slightly.


    > So that''s how you want to play it?


    Most players would blindly follow instructions, assuming all ingredients were correct. If Raven had done the same, the potion would have collapsed in seconds.


    > He''s testing my awareness.


    Instead of using the fake Silverleaf Powder, Raven searched the table again. His gaze narrowed¡ªthere, at the far edge of the table, was a smaller vial filled with actual Silverleaf Powder.


    Varian had hidden the real ingredient.


    > Tch. Petty.


    Raven smirked but didn''t let it slow him down.


    Carefully, he took the correct Silverleaf Powder and added it in small increments, stirring precisely three times clockwise, then one counterclockwise¡ªthe exact rhythm needed to stabilize the potion.


    The liquid brightened, shifting into a deep indigo hue.


    > Passed the first trap.


    ---


    The Second Trap ¨C Forced Improvisation


    As Raven continued the brewing process, everything seemed smooth¡ªuntil he reached the final step.


    He reached for the Arcane Dew¡ªthe last and most crucial ingredient.


    But when he uncorked the bottle¡ª


    > It''s empty.


    A slight chuckle echoed in the chamber.


    Varian''s voice, smooth as ever, rang out.


    > "Oh dear. It seems you''re missing something."


    Raven''s fingers tightened around the bottle.


    > You bastard.


    This was deliberate. The final ingredient had been removed, forcing Raven to find a solution on the spot.


    > Most would panic. Most would give up.


    But Raven?


    His eyes flicked to the remaining unused ingredients.


    > If I don''t have Arcane Dew, I need a substitute.


    His mind worked rapidly, analyzing possible alternatives.


    Mana-Infused Orchid? No, too unstable.


    Phoenix Ash? Too volatile.


    Frostpetal Essence? ¡­


    Raven''s mind snapped to a conclusion.


    > Frostpetal Essence. It has mana-conductive properties, just weaker.


    If he adjusted the ratio¡ªtripled the amount¡ªit could act as a substitute. It wouldn''t be perfect, but it would be close enough.


    With precise movements, he measured the Frostpetal Essence, slowly dripping it into the cauldron.


    The potion shimmered, teetering between success and failure¡ªthen, finally, settled into a soft, ethereal glow.


    > It worked.


    A system notification flashed.


    [Alchemy Trial: Stage 2 ¨C Brewing Test Completed]


    Varian''s voice hummed with amusement.


    > "Interesting choice. And yet¡­ you succeeded."


    The Trial Proctor finally smiled, nodding in approval.


    > "Trial complete."


    The chamber faded, light consuming Raven as the next phase of the test loomed ahead.


    Varian stood at the far end of the chamber, hands still clasped behind his back, his expression unreadable.


    But Raven noticed the smallest shift.


    The way Varian''s eyes lingered on the completed potion just a fraction longer than necessary. The way his lips twitched¡ªnot quite a smile, but close.


    For an instant, Raven caught the slightest glint of satisfaction in the old alchemist''s gaze.


    > He''s pleased.


    Not that Varian would ever admit it.


    Instead, he tilted his head, his voice still laced with its usual calm amusement.


    > "A fascinating choice."


    He gestured toward the potion.


    > "Most would have panicked, complained, or simply failed. But you?"


    Varian''s fingers brushed the rim of the cauldron, as if inspecting the final result. His touch was light, almost curious.


    > "You saw the deception, found a solution, and made it work. It wasn''t flawless, but¡­"


    He finally looked back at Raven.


    > "You adapted."


    For a moment, silence stretched between them.


    Raven didn''t speak. He didn''t need to.


    The quiet was an understanding¡ªone between two people who recognized each other.


    Varian knew what kind of person Raven was.


    And Raven knew that Varian had been testing him from the very start.


    > A challenge to see if I''m just another fool fumbling through alchemy.


    Varian''s interest was clear now.


    And yet¡ª


    > "Of course¡­"


    The older man''s voice turned light, almost mocking.


    > "A proper alchemist wouldn''t have needed a substitute in the first place."


    Raven''s eye twitched, but he remained still.


    Varian chuckled softly before turning away.


    > "The trial is not yet over."


    With a wave of his hand, the cauldron and workspace vanished¡ªfading into golden particles.


    The chamber shifted again, the walls rippling like water.


    ---


    A New Challenge Awaits


    As the room stabilized, Raven found himself no longer alone.


    Rows of seats lined the sides of the chamber, filled with other alchemy students¡ªboth NPCs and players.


    Some had eager expressions, while others looked bored. A few whispered to each other, glancing at Raven with mild curiosity.


    But the real surprise was the arena-like setup forming at the center.


    A single stone platform rose from the ground, surrounded by glowing barrier runes.


    And standing at the edge was the Trial Proctor, his voice ringing out.


    > "The next phase of the trial will begin."


    Varian stepped to the side, watching with a keen gaze¡ªnot intervening, but observing.


    This time, Raven wouldn''t just be brewing potions.


    This time, he would have to use them in real combat.


    > And Varian was eager to see how he''d handle it.

 chapter 47 combat trail

    The Combat Trial Begins ¨C A True Test of Alchemy


    As the chamber settled, Raven stood before the newly formed stone platform, the faint hum of arcane energy vibrating beneath his feet. The arena-like setup was unexpected, but he understood what was happening.


    > This isn''t just about brewing.


    The crowd of alchemy students and players murmured among themselves, their eyes flickering with interest. Some whispered in excitement, while others scoffed in disbelief.


    > "Wait, he''s moving to the combat phase already?"


    "No way. He passed the brewing test that fast?"


    "Tch. He probably got lucky."


    "Doesn''t matter. He''s dead if he can''t fight."


    Their skepticism didn''t bother Raven.


    His focus remained on the Trial Proctor, who had now stepped forward to address him.


    Varian stood to the side, watching with a quiet intensity¡ªhis expression carefully neutral, but Raven could tell.


    The old alchemist was watching him closely.


    The Rules of the Trial


    The Trial Proctor''s voice boomed across the chamber.


    > "Alchemy is not limited to the safety of a workshop. A true alchemist must be prepared to apply their craft under pressure."


    He gestured toward the stone platform.


    > "For this phase, you will engage in combat. Your only tools¡­"


    A flick of his wrist, and a small wooden crate appeared before Raven. Inside were:


    A basic alchemy kit (glass vials, mortar & pestle, heat source)


    Several common ingredients


    A single pre-made healing potion


    > "¡­are the ingredients you are given and your own skill."


    The crowd''s murmurs grew louder.


    > "Wait, they''re making him craft potions mid-fight?"


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    "That''s brutal."


    "He won''t have time to mix anything in the middle of combat."


    "Most people fail this trial. Even NPCs struggle with it."


    Raven''s fingers tightened around the edge of the crate.


    > They''re making this as difficult as possible.


    That meant only one thing¡ª


    Varian had likely orchestrated this.


    The Opponent Arrives


    The Trial Proctor raised his hand, and the opposing side of the arena rumbled.


    A massive gate began to rise, revealing a figure stepping forward¡ª


    A golem.


    Not just any golem.


    A Runed Stone Golem, its body covered in glowing alchemy-etched inscriptions pulsing with magic. Its fists were the size of Raven''s torso, its legs thick as tree trunks.


    > [Trial Combatant: Runed Stone Golem]


    Level: 15


    Ability: Enhanced Durability, Magic Resistance


    The crowd reacted immediately.


    > "That''s not a normal training dummy!"


    "What the hell? This is harder than the usual trials!"


    "They usually get slimes or weak constructs, not this!"


    Raven exhaled slowly, his eyes narrowing.


    > You really want to see how far I can go, don''t you, Varian?


    He didn''t even need to look at the old alchemist to know he was enjoying this.


    The Fight Begins


    The Trial Proctor''s hand dropped, signaling the start.


    The Runed Stone Golem charged.


    THUD! THUD! THUD!


    Each step sent tremors through the arena as the massive creature barreled toward Raven. It raised a stone-carved fist, runes flaring to life, and swung with terrifying force.


    > Fast.


    Raven barely twisted to the side in time, the fist slamming into the ground where he had stood a second earlier¡ª


    BOOM!


    The impact shattered the stone, cracks spreading from the force.


    The crowd gasped.


    Raven landed smoothly, his mind already working.


    > I can''t fight it head-on. It''s too strong.


    > I need to weaken it. And for that¡­


    His gaze flicked to the crate of ingredients at the edge of the arena.


    > I need to brew something¡ªfast.


    A Battle of Alchemy


    Raven sprinted toward the crate, grabbing three key ingredients:


    Searing Ash ¨C Causes burning corrosion on stone


    Quicksilver Shards ¨C Weakens magical defenses


    Ethervine Extract ¨C Speeds up alchemical reactions


    His hands moved quickly, pouring the Searing Ash into an empty vial, adding the Ethervine Extract, and crushing the Quicksilver Shards into fine dust before mixing them in.


    > I don''t have time to heat this properly.


    Instead, he shook the vial violently, forcing an unstable reaction.


    The liquid inside turned a bright crimson, sizzling as the mixture completed¡ª


    > [Alchemical Bomb: Crude Explosive] Created!


    > Good enough.


    Raven spun on his heel just as the golem charged again.


    It swung¡ªhe ducked, feeling the wind of the attack rush past him, and in the same motion¡ª


    TOSS!


    The crimson vial shattered against the golem''s chest.


    For a second¡ªnothing.


    Then¡ª


    BOOOOM!


    The explosion erupted, Searing Ash eating away at the golem''s runes, the Quicksilver Shards dulling its magical defenses.


    The massive creature staggered, chunks of stone falling from its body.


    > "He''s damaging it!"


    The crowd''s murmurs shifted¡ªfrom disbelief to intrigue.


    But Raven wasn''t done.


    A Calculated Victory


    The golem, though damaged, roared and charged again.


    But now¡ª


    > Its movements are slower.


    > It''s weakened.


    Raven quickly mixed another potion¡ªthis time a Slowing Solution, using Frostvine Extract and Binding Sap.


    The moment the golem lunged¡ª


    He threw the vial at its legs.


    The liquid splashed across the stone, rapidly freezing and hardening into an immobilizing grip.


    The golem tried to move¡ª


    But its legs were locked in place.


    And then¡ª


    CRACK!


    The weight of its own attack caused its weakened, frozen leg to snap apart, sending the massive construct collapsing onto the stone floor.


    THUD!


    The arena shook.


    And then¡ª


    Silence.


    > [Trial Combatant Defeated!]


    The system notification flashed across Raven''s screen.


    The crowd erupted.


    > "Holy shit."


    "Did he just¡­ take down a stone golem with alchemy alone?"


    "That wasn''t luck. That was calculated."


    "Who the hell is this guy?"


    Varian''s Final Judgment


    As the golem''s remains vanished, the Trial Proctor stepped forward, his voice echoing.


    > "Trial complete."


    But Raven''s eyes were on Varian.


    The old alchemist had watched the entire battle silently, his expression unreadable¡ª


    Until, for just a fraction of a second, a glimmer of approval passed through his gaze.


    Not much. Not obvious.


    But Raven saw it.


    > You''re pleased, aren''t you?


    And then¡ªVarian smirked.


    > "Not bad."


    With that, he turned, already walking away.


    The meaning was clear.


    > You passed.


    > But this is only the beginning.

 chapter 48 after math and special rewards

    The arena remained eerily silent for a moment after Varian turned to leave. The weight of his words¡ª"Not bad"¡ªstill lingered in the air.Then, like a dam breaking, the crowd exploded with noise.> "That was insane!""He actually beat the golem!""Did you see how he adapted? That wasn''t brute force¡ªthat was real alchemy.""No wonder he passed so fast.""What''s his name? Anyone know?"Raven ignored the chatter, stepping down from the platform with the same calm, composed expression he had maintained since the trial began.But he wasn''t naive.He could feel the weight of their gazes¡ªplayers and NPCs alike. Some were filled with curiosity, others admiration¡­ and a few with jealousy.This trial had done more than just grant him the Alchemy Apprentice title.It had drawn attention.> Tch. More eyes on me than I''d like.Still, there was no regret. This had been necessary.The Trial Proctor''s VerdictThe Trial Proctor approached him, his face set in its usual neutrality, though there was a flicker of something deeper¡ªacknowledgment.> "You have completed the Alchemy Apprentice trial. Your performance was¡­" He hesitated briefly, then finished, "¡­noteworthy."The system prompt flashed before Raven''s eyes.---[System Notification]Congratulations! You have passed the Alchemy Apprentice Trial!Title Unlocked: [Alchemy Apprentice]Perk: +10% efficiency in crafting alchemical itemsPerk: Basic potion effects increased by 5%Reward: [Alchemy Academy Badge] ¨C Grants access to advanced lessons & restricted materials---Raven glanced at the badge now appearing in his inventory¡ªa small, ornate piece of metal with engraved alchemical symbols, glowing faintly.> Access to restricted materials, huh?That would be useful.Varian''s Final GestureJust as Raven was about to step away, the crowd parted slightly¡ªVarian had stopped at the exit of the chamber.He hadn''t left yet.Instead, he tilted his head slightly, just enough for Raven to see his knowing smirk.Then, with a slow, deliberate motion, he tossed something toward him.Raven caught it effortlessly.A small, dark glass vial.> [???]A mysterious alchemical sample given by Varian. Its purpose is unknown.Before he could question it, Varian spoke one last time.> "If you''re serious about alchemy, this won''t be your last test."His voice was as calm and unreadable as ever. But something about it felt almost expectant.Then, without another word, he disappeared down the corridor.Raven glanced at the unlabeled vial in his hand.The Players ReactAs soon as Varian left, the players in the chamber swarmed closer, their hushed whispers turning into outright discussion.> "Wait. Did Varian just personally hand him something?""That''s not normal.""I''ve failed this trial three times, and that old bastard barely even looks at people.""Who is this guy?"A few bold players approached him directly.> "Hey, man, that was impressive. Got any tips?""You doing commissions? I could use a decent alchemist in my party.""That secret reaction you pulled¡ªwas that an in-game recipe or custom?"Raven ignored most of them, simply giving a short nod before moving toward the exit.> I''ve wasted enough time here.A Shadow in the CrowdAs he passed through the gathering, one figure stood apart from the others.A hooded player, watching him silently.Unlike the others¡ªwho were filled with excitement or curiosity¡ªthis one''s gaze was sharper, more calculating.Raven didn''t stop.But he noted the presence.> Someone''s interested in me for the wrong reasons.And in a place like Viles Town, that was something to be wary of.---Outside the Alchemy Academy ¨C A New Path OpensStepping out into the streets of Viles Town, Raven felt the cool evening air settle around him. The sounds of vendors, mercenaries, and wandering players filled the space.His next steps were clear.Investigate the vial Varian gave him.Use his new Alchemy Apprentice status to access restricted materials.Prepare for the rising chaos in Viles Town.The Dark Solution guild was still operating in the shadows. K was still hunting them.> And in the middle of it all¡­Raven had just put himself on the map.---


    A Storm of Invitations


    As Raven stepped out of the Alchemy Academy, the cool evening air of Viles Town greeted him. But he had barely taken two steps before the first voice called out.


    > "Hey, wait!"


    A man in silver-trimmed robes strode toward him, a confident smile plastered on his face.


    > "That was an incredible display inside! I''m Alan, from the Iron Serpents. We''re looking for promising alchemists like you. If you''re interested, we offer a starting salary of 10 credits per week plus access to our guild''s private workshop!"


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    Before Raven could even ignore him, another voice cut in.


    > "Ignore those amateurs."


    A tall woman in black armor, her eyes sharp with calculation, stepped forward.


    > "The Night Ravens could use a talent like you. We''ll double whatever they offer."


    > "I''ll triple it!" someone else shouted.


    The floodgates burst open.


    A dozen guild representatives pushed forward, all eager to claim him for their own. Their offers piled up quickly¡ªnot just credits, but promises of rare ingredients, personal crafting stations, and even in-game property.


    > "Join us, and you''ll get direct access to a personal alchemy lab!"


    "We have an exclusive supplier of monster materials¡ªthings you won''t find anywhere else."


    "If you sign today, we''ll throw in a bonus of 50 credits!"


    One even tried to shove a contract into his hands.


    ---


    Raven''s Indifference


    Raven barely glanced at the offers.


    To most players, these deals would be insanely tempting. Alchemy materials were expensive, and a guaranteed credit income was rare in the early stages.


    But Raven wasn''t most players.


    > Do they think I''m stupid?


    A contract this early in the game?


    It was an obvious trap.


    The fine print would likely lock him into guild obligations¡ªforcing him to craft exclusively for them, restricting his independence, and ensuring they made ten times more profit from his work.


    10 credits per week might sound decent for a third-rate employee, but for someone who understood the true potential of alchemy? It was a joke.


    If he wanted, he could make ten times that amount on his own.


    No thanks.


    Without a word, Raven walked past them.


    > "Hey! At least give it some thought!"


    "We can negotiate!"


    "You''re making a mistake rejecting this!"


    He didn''t even slow down.


    He had no interest in being someone else''s alchemy slave.


    ---


    Varian''s Summons


    As he reached the outer gates of the Academy, a voice¡ªcalm and familiar¡ªcut through the noise.


    > "Enough."


    Varian.


    The crowd instantly fell silent. The guild representatives¡ªso full of confidence a moment ago¡ªtensed.


    Varian wasn''t just some NPC.


    He was one of the highest-ranking alchemists in Viles Town. His presence alone was enough to command respect and fear.


    His gaze flickered over the gathering before settling on Raven.


    > "Follow me."


    Then, without waiting for a response, he turned and walked back into the Academy.


    Raven didn''t hesitate.


    Ignoring the murmurs behind him, he followed.


    ---


    Inside Varian''s Chambers


    Unlike the grand alchemy halls, Varian''s personal chamber was dimly lit, filled with shelves of strange materials and old tomes.


    The air carried a faint scent of burnt herbs and metal.


    Varian closed the door behind them and turned, studying Raven with his usual unreadable expression.


    For a long moment, he said nothing.


    Then, he gestured toward a small wooden chair.


    > "Sit."


    Raven complied.


    Varian leaned against his desk, arms crossed.


    > "You knew what you were doing in that trial. That wasn''t just blind luck."


    A statement, not a question.


    Raven met his gaze without flinching.


    > "I learn fast."


    Varian''s lips twitched¡ªa hint of amusement, quickly buried.


    > "You''re not an ordinary beginner. And I don''t just mean in skill."


    Raven remained silent.


    Varian watched him for a moment longer, then sighed.


    > "Those guilds will hound you."


    He reached into his desk and pulled out a small silver emblem.


    > [Alchemy Academy Sigil] ¨C Grants official recognition within the Alchemy Academy. Protects the bearer from external recruitment attempts within Viles Town.


    He placed it on the table between them.


    > "Take it. It''ll keep them off your back¡ªfor now."


    Raven picked up the emblem, rolling it between his fingers.


    This was unexpected.


    > "Why help me?"


    Varian''s smirk returned, just barely.


    > "Because I want to see how far you can go."


    Then his expression turned serious.


    > "You''ve passed the first trial. But alchemy isn''t just about mixing potions and memorizing formulas."


    He leaned forw


    ard slightly.


    > "It''s about understanding the world itself."


    A pause.


    Then¡ª


    > "So tell me, Raven. Do you want to stop here? Or do you want to learn the real secrets of alchemy?"


    ---

 chapter 49 forbidden knowledge

    Raven twirled the Alchemy Academy Sigil between his fingers, considering Varian''s words. The room was silent except for the faint crackle of an alchemical burner in the corner, its blue flame casting flickering shadows across the shelves.


    Most players wouldn''t hesitate. A high-ranking alchemist NPC offering personal training? That was a golden opportunity. But Raven wasn''t like most players.


    He didn''t need a mentor to tell him what to do.


    Yet¡­ there was value in knowledge.


    > "I''m listening," Raven said finally.


    Varian''s smirk deepened.


    > "Good."


    He turned and moved toward a cabinet, unlocking it with a small metallic key. As the doors swung open, rows of meticulously labeled vials, scrolls, and strange artifacts gleamed under the dim light.


    > "Alchemy isn''t just about mixing ingredients and hoping for the best."


    Varian reached inside, pulling out a small glass bottle filled with a swirling, dark green liquid. He held it up, the substance within shifting almost as if it were alive.


    > "This is a poison that can kill a man in seconds¡ªor heal him, depending on how it''s prepared."


    Raven''s eyes narrowed.


    > "A dual-effect potion?"


    Varian nodded.


    > "Most alchemists focus on the result¡ªdamage, healing, resistance. But true mastery lies in the foundation: understanding the essence of ingredients and how they interact on a deeper level."


    He set the vial down and turned to face Raven fully.


    > "You want power, don''t you?"


    Raven didn''t respond immediately.


    Power wasn''t the goal¡ªcontrol was. If he wanted to manipulate the chaos in Viles Town, he needed to understand alchemy beyond simple crafting recipes. He needed to create things no one else could.


    > "What''s the catch?" he asked.


    Varian chuckled.


    > "Smart. There''s always a catch."


    He gestured toward a large iron-bound book resting on the desk. Its cover was engraved with alchemical symbols, and a faint, pulsing glow radiated from its pages.


    > "Alchemy at this level isn''t safe. The deeper you go, the more dangerous it becomes. The Academy only teaches the basics¡ªharmless potions and simple transmutations. But if you want to learn the real secrets, you''ll be stepping into forbidden territory."


    He tapped the book''s cover.


    > "This contains knowledge on unstable formulas, volatile reactions, and the manipulation of life itself."


    Raven raised an eyebrow.


    > "And the Academy allows this?"


    Varian''s smirk turned razor-sharp.


    > "The Academy doesn''t know."


    A beat of silence.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Raven stared at him, considering.


    If Varian was hiding knowledge from the Academy, then this wasn''t just some in-game tutorial. This was a path few players would ever access.


    It was a risk¡ªbut one that could pay off immensely.


    > "What do you need me to do?"


    Varian pushed the book toward him.


    > "For now, study this."


    Raven placed a hand on the cover. Immediately, a system notification appeared.


    ---


    [Quest Received: The Forbidden Path of Alchemy]


    Difficulty: ???


    Description: Varian has offered to teach you alchemy beyond the Academy''s limits. This path will grant you access to powerful but dangerous knowledge. Proceed with caution.


    Objective: Read the first chapter of Varian''s book and perform the initial experiment.


    Reward: Unknown.


    ---


    Raven accepted without hesitation.


    As soon as he did, the book''s pages flipped open on their own, revealing dense text written in an ancient script. But his interface automatically translated it.


    > "Alchemy is the art of deconstruction and reconstruction. To truly understand a substance, one must first break it down to its essence."


    At the bottom of the page, an experiment was listed:


    ---


    Experiment: Essence Extraction


    Objective: Extract the true essence of an alchemical ingredient without destroying its properties.


    Materials Required:


    Essence Stabilizer (Rare)


    Crimson Nightshade (Toxic Herb)


    Lunar Water (Purified by Moonlight)


    ---


    Varian watched as Raven skimmed the instructions.


    > "The Academy doesn''t teach this because it''s dangerous. If done incorrectly, the reaction will destroy the ingredient¡ªor worse, harm the alchemist."


    > "How much worse?" Raven asked.


    Varian grinned.


    > "Worst case? You might explode."


    Raven exhaled through his nose.


    > "Sounds fun."


    Varian laughed.


    > "Good. Then let''s see if you survive your first real lesson."


    Raven ran a finger over the ancient text, absorbing the details of the experiment. Essence Extraction. It wasn''t something the game''s public guides ever mentioned¡ªlikely because it was too unstable for casual alchemists to attempt.


    His eyes flicked to the list of ingredients.


    Essence Stabilizer (Rare) ¨C Likely something expensive or difficult to obtain.


    Crimson Nightshade (Toxic Herb) ¨C A common but dangerous plant. Mishandling it could lead to poisoning.


    Lunar Water (Purified by Moonlight) ¨C This could be time-sensitive; he might need to collect it at night.


    Varian leaned against the desk, watching him with interest.


    > "What''s your approach?"


    Raven considered.


    He could attempt the experiment immediately, relying on his past knowledge and instincts. But alchemy wasn''t just about speed¡ªit was about precision. Rushing could mean failure¡­ or worse.


    He closed the book.


    > "I need to confirm a few things first."


    Varian''s lips curled into a smirk.


    > "Good. Impatience kills more alchemists than poison."


    Raven knew that jumping straight into the experiment without a thorough understanding would be a rookie mistake. Alchemy wasn''t just about throwing ingredients together¡ªit was about understanding their properties, interactions, and potential risks.


    A failed experiment could result in wasted materials, explosions, or even status debuffs.


    So, before he even thought about collecting the ingredients, he needed information.


    ---


    1. The Essence Stabilizer ¨C A Rare Commodity


    Raven''s first stop was the Academy''s ingredient archives, a vast chamber lined with wooden shelves filled with dusty tomes, ingredient ledgers, and handwritten notes from past alchemists.


    He ran his fingers along the book spines, searching for anything on Essence Stabilizers. Eventually, he pulled out a thick, leather-bound volume titled "Advanced Alchemical Binders and Stabilizers."


    > [Essence Stabilizer]


    A rare alchemical component designed to prevent the dissipation of raw essence. Used in high-level transmutation and extraction techniques. Typically synthesized using high-purity minerals. Its value makes it a heavily restricted item.


    Raven''s brow furrowed.


    Key takeaways:


    It was a rare and expensive component.


    It prevented extracted essence from breaking down, making it essential for his experiment.


    It was likely not sold in normal alchemy shops due to its value.


    That meant he had only a few ways to get it:


    1. Buy it (unlikely, since it was expensive).


    2. Steal it from the Academy.


    3. Find a substitute (which required research).


    Raven tucked that thought away for later. He had more ingredients to investigate.


    ---


    2. The Crimson Nightshade ¨C A Deadly Poison


    This time, Raven pulled out a thinner book titled "Forbidden Flora of the Continent." He flipped through the pages until he found a deep red sketch of a flower labeled "Crimson Nightshade."


    > [Crimson Nightshade]


    A highly toxic herb. Contact with bare skin causes paralysis. Ingestion results in rapid organ failure. Its primary use is in poisons and high-level alchemical brews. Due to its lethal nature, it is banned in most trade hubs and alchemy shops.


    Raven''s eyes narrowed.


    Key takeaways:


    Dangerous to handle ¨C Direct contact could lead to paralysis.


    Not legally sold ¨C Meaning he had to harvest it in the wild or buy it on the black market.


    Used in poisons ¨C Meaning assassins or shady merchants might have it.


    He checked the growth locations listed in the book:


    The Deepwood Forest ¨C A high-level monster zone outside Viles Town.


    The Black Market ¨C Risky, but a guaranteed source.


    > I don''t have time to hunt through a monster-infested forest. The Black Market is the better option.


    But he would need contacts to find a dealer.


    ---


    3. The Lunar Water ¨C A Time-Sensitive Ingredient


    For this one, Raven pulled out a more technical alchemy book, "The Study of Celestial Liquids."


    > [Lunar Water]


    A liquid purified under moonlight. Its potency is strongest during a full moon, making it a critical component in light-based elixirs and stabilizing potions.


    Raven checked the in-game date:


    Current Day: 3


    Next Full Moon: Day 7


    > Four days? That''s too long. I need a workaround.


    He flipped through the book, scanning for alternatives.


    > "Lunar Water can be artificially enhanced using a Moonstone Catalyst, mimicking the effects of full moon purification."


    His eyes sharpened.


    Key takeaways:


    Waiting for a full moon wasn''t an option.


    Moonstone Catalysts could create Lunar Water instantly.


    He had to find a Moonstone Catalyst.


    This led to another problem: Moonstone Catalysts were high-tier materials¡ªlikely stored in restricted sections of the Academy.


    > Looks like I''ll have to steal one.


    ---


    Conclusion ¨C The Plan Moving Forward


    With all the information gathered, Raven now had a clear roadmap:


    1. Get the Essence Stabilizer ¨C He would use his Alchemy Academy Sigil to trick an NPC into giving it to him.


    2. Acquire Crimson Nightshade ¨C The Black Market was his best bet, but he needed to find the right contact.


    3. Steal a Moonstone Catalyst ¨C He would sneak into the Advanced Alchemy Lab and take one without being caught.


    > No wasted time. No unnecessary risks.


    His preparations were complete.


    It was time to execute the plan.


    Note :this is game launched 1 day 3 hours


    Raven completed trail in 4 hours most players are struggling to lvl 3 because k is restriction on town leaving without tax so many are having struggle to level up many are lvl 2 no one is lvl 3 except raven in viles town

 chapter 50 unknown recipe

    With his plan in place, Raven moved swiftly to gather the necessary materials. Each of the three key ingredients posed its own challenges¡ªsome required deception, others called for black market dealings, and one demanded outright theft. But Raven wasn''t concerned. He had the skills, the knowledge, and most importantly, the willingness to do whatever it took to secure them.---Acquiring the Essence Stabilizer ¨C Exploiting the AcademyThe Essence Stabilizer was a high-tier alchemical reagent, primarily used to prevent raw essence from decaying during transmutations. Because of its value, it wasn''t something just anyone could obtain. Only officially recognized alchemists or those with explicit Academy authorization could request it. Buying one was out of the question¡ªit was simply too expensive. But Raven had another method: exploiting the authority of the Alchemy Academy Sigil.The Academy''s supply depot was a vast chamber filled with labeled shelves, potion racks, and locked cabinets containing rare ingredients. At the heart of it all stood Master Jorven, the elderly quartermaster responsible for overseeing inventory. Jorven had a reputation for being strict about ingredient requests¡ªhe always checked authorization papers for students who needed expensive materials. However, Raven had noticed something interesting: those with an Academy Sigil rarely had their requests questioned. It was a shortcut most players wouldn''t think to abuse.Stepping up to the counter, Raven placed the Alchemy Academy Sigil on the desk. The metal gleamed under the candlelight, drawing Jorven''s attention.> "I need an Essence Stabilizer for my advanced synthesis project," Raven said confidently.Jorven gave him a sharp look, his gaze lingering on Raven''s unfamiliar face. If he started asking questions, the plan would fail. But then his eyes shifted to the Academy Sigil, and just like that, his suspicion faded.> "Master Varian authorized this?" Jorven asked, already reaching for his logbook.> "Yes," Raven replied smoothly. "He said time was of the essence, so he didn''t bother with the paperwork."Jorven hesitated only for a second before nodding. He turned, retrieved a small silver vial from a locked case, and placed it in front of Raven.> [Essence Stabilizer] Acquired!Raven picked it up and walked out without another word. No cost. No hassle. Just pure manipulation.---Acquiring Crimson Nightshade ¨C Navigating the Black MarketThe Crimson Nightshade was a highly toxic herb, banned from most legal trade due to its lethal properties. Its paralyzing touch and deadly effects made it a favorite among assassins and poison makers, meaning it was not something he could find in regular alchemy shops. That left Raven with only one option¡ªthe Black Market of Viles Town.The Black Market wasn''t a single location but rather an underground network of smugglers, criminals, and rogue traders who dealt in restricted goods. Finding it wasn''t as simple as walking into a store¡ªhe needed a contact, someone who could lead him to a seller.Raven moved through the narrow alleyways near the docks, where rumors of illicit trade were strongest. The air was thick with the scent of damp wood and stale alcohol, and hooded figures loitered in the shadows. This was the kind of place where people spoke in whispers and did business with a knife at their back.After some searching, Raven spotted a man flipping a gold coin between his fingers, his posture relaxed but his eyes sharp. A Black Market broker. Raven approached him without hesitation.> "I''m looking for rare alchemical components. The kind you don''t find in regular shops," Raven said, keeping his tone casual.The man smirked but didn''t stop flipping his coin. "That depends. You got gold?"Raven reached into his pouch and pulled out five gold coins, letting the metal glint under the dim lantern light.> "Enough?"The smuggler chuckled. "That''ll get you rumors. Nothing more."Raven flipped another two gold coins into his palm.> "Now?"The smuggler''s smirk widened. "Now we''re talking."He gestured for Raven to follow him into a hidden backroom behind an abandoned warehouse. The room was dimly lit, lined with crates and shelves filled with stolen goods, potion vials, and restricted herbs. The smuggler reached into a wooden chest and pulled out a bundle of dried red flowers, wrapped in cloth.> [Crimson Nightshade] ¨C A potent, highly toxic herb. Handle with care.> "Five gold. No less."Raven handed over the money without argument¡ªthis wasn''t a place to negotiate unless you wanted to end up in a ditch. As he turned to leave, the smuggler chuckled.> "Careful with that stuff, kid. It doesn''t forgive mistakes."Raven slipped the Crimson Nightshade into his inventory and disappeared into the shadows. One step closer to completion.> [Gold Coins Remaining: 3]---Stealing a Moonstone Catalyst ¨C The Academy HeistThe Moonstone Catalyst was a high-tier alchemical component, stored inside the Advanced Alchemy Lab within the Academy. Unlike the Essence Stabilizer, there was no way to trick an NPC into giving it away¡ªhe would have to steal it.Scouting the LabRaven spent the day studying the Academy''s layout, mapping out the patrol routes of the guards stationed near the lab. He quickly learned a few key details:The main entrance was locked with a Level 3 Security Ward¡ªtoo strong for him to bypass.Two Academy Guards patrolled the hallways, changing shifts every fifteen minutes.A ventilation shaft near the back of the room led inside the lab, but only someone small and agile could fit through it.A direct approach was impossible. A stealthy infiltration was the only option.Breaking InRaven waited until midnight, when most of the Academy staff had retired for the night. Keeping to the shadows, he made his way to the ventilation shaft. The opening was secured with a few rusty bolts¡ªnothing a quick tool couldn''t handle.> [Stealth: Level 2] Activated.With careful precision, he unscrewed the grate and slipped inside, moving slowly to avoid making noise. The shaft was narrow, the air thick with dust, but Raven pressed forward.Inside the Advanced Alchemy Lab, shelves upon shelves of rare ingredients lined the walls. Potions glowed softly under glass domes, and enchanted runes shimmered on protective cases. But Raven had one target¡ªthe Moonstone Catalyst.It was stored inside a locked glass cabinet at the far end of the room. Raven retrieved a Thin Wire, a simple but effective tool for picking basic locks.> [Dexterity Check: Success]The lock clicked open without a sound.Raven reached inside, his fingers closing around the Moonstone Catalyst¡ªa small, glowing blue crystal pulsing with energy.> [Moonstone Catalyst] Acquired!With the catalyst safely in his inventory, Raven retraced his steps, slipped back through the vent, and disappeared into the night without triggering a single alarm.---Mission Complete ¨C All Ingredients SecuredWith the Essence Stabilizer, Crimson Nightshade, and Moonstone Catalyst now in his possession, Raven had successfully gathered all the necessary components for his experiment. No unnecessary risks, no wasted time.Now, all that remained was to put his plan into action.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    With the ingredients secured, Raven made his way back to his rented room at the inn. He locked the door behind him, ensuring no one could interrupt. The dim candlelight cast flickering shadows against the walls, the scent of old parchment and alchemical residue lingering in the air.


    He placed the Essence Stabilizer, Crimson Nightshade, and Moonstone Catalyst on the wooden table, his fingers tracing over them. Each of these ingredients had required deception, risk, and careful planning to acquire.


    > This better be worth it.


    Alchemy wasn''t just about mixing random components together and hoping for the best. It was a science. A discipline. An art. A single mistake could mean wasted materials¡ªor worse, a lethal explosion.


    Raven leaned back, his mind processing the steps ahead.


    > Theoretically, this should work. But theory means nothing without execution.


    He had studied enough in his past life to understand that alchemy followed patterns¡ªlaws of reaction, stabilization, and enhancement. His experiment would push the limits of conventional synthesis, combining the volatile nature of the Nightshade, the raw energy of the Catalyst, and the binding properties of the Stabilizer.


    > Alchemy isn''t just about following formulas. It''s about understanding the nature of things.


    A traditional alchemist would hesitate, second-guess, or seek approval from a mentor before attempting something this dangerous. But Raven wasn''t a traditional alchemist. He had no master. No restrictions. No safety nets.


    He exhaled slowly.


    > Let''s see if my gamble pays off.


    ---


    The Experiment Begins


    He carefully measured out the Crimson Nightshade first, grinding the dried herb into a fine powder. Even in powdered form, the toxicity remained. A single mistake¡ªbreathing in too much, handling it carelessly¡ªcould paralyze him for hours.


    Next, he took the Essence Stabilizer and mixed it with distilled water, watching as the liquid thickened into a translucent gel-like substance. This would serve as the medium to regulate the unstable interactions between the ingredients.


    > If I add too little, the reaction won''t start. Too much, and it will dilute the potency.


    Finally, he retrieved the Moonstone Catalyst¡ªthe heart of the experiment. The crystal pulsed with a faint blue light, radiating a quiet hum of energy. Unlike the other two ingredients, this one wasn''t just a reagent¡ªit was the spark.


    Holding his breath, Raven crushed the Moonstone Catalyst with a small mortar, grinding it into a fine dust. As soon as the crystalline powder mixed with the other ingredients, a soft glow emanated from the bowl.


    > It''s working.


    The reaction was delicate, volatile¡ªbut not out of control.


    For the next several minutes, Raven carefully adjusted the proportions, fine-tuning the mixture with precise, deliberate motions. His hands were steady, his focus absolute.


    Then, finally¡ª


    A soft chime echoed through the room.


    > [New Recipe Created: ???]


    A small vial of deep crimson liquid rested before him, faintly glowing under the candlelight.


    > Success.


    Raven smirked, picking up the vial and rolling it between his fingers.


    > Now, let''s see what this really does.

 chapter 51 varian quest

    Varian''s gaze lingered on the glowing crimson vial in Raven''s hand. Unlike before, when he had been merely curious, there was now a sharper glint in his eyes¡ªsatisfaction.


    > "Good."


    He stepped further into the room, the scent of crushed herbs and alchemical residue filling the air. His expression remained unreadable, but there was an unmistakable air of approval.


    > "I asked you to test your abilities, and you did."


    Raven''s grip tightened slightly on the vial.


    > So this was a test all along.


    Varian had given him the freedom to experiment, but it wasn''t just about mixing ingredients. It was about seeing how far Raven would go without guidance.


    > Would he hesitate? Would he seek help? Would he take shortcuts?


    Raven hadn''t done any of those things. He had relied entirely on his own knowledge, instincts, and skills to create something entirely new.


    > "You figured it out faster than I expected," Varian admitted. "Most alchemists would have spent weeks trying to balance that combination."


    Raven simply shrugged.


    > "I learn fast."


    A small smirk tugged at the corner of Varian''s lips, gone in an instant.


    > "Then let''s see if what you''ve created is truly worth something."


    He extended a hand.


    > "Give it to me."


    Raven hesitated for a fraction of a second. This potion was his creation. If it worked, it could be incredibly valuable. But he wasn''t stupid¡ªhe wasn''t going to refuse Varian outright.


    Instead, he placed the vial in Varian''s palm.


    ---


    The Evaluation


    Varian held the potion up to the candlelight, watching the way the liquid shimmered inside the glass. He tilted it slightly, studying the viscosity. Then, without hesitation¡ª


    He uncorked it and took a small sip.


    Raven''s eyes narrowed.


    > "You sure that''s a good idea?"


    Varian swallowed, his expression completely calm.


    A few tense seconds passed. Then, a faint glow spread across his fingertips¡ªbrief but unmistakable. His smirk deepened.


    > "Not bad."


    Raven crossed his arms. "What does it do?"


    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    Varian placed the vial back on the table.


    > "You''ve created a Low-Tier Enhancement Draught. It temporarily strengthens physical reflexes and reaction speed. Not a groundbreaking potion, but considering the ingredients you used?"


    His gaze flicked back to Raven.


    > "It''s an impressive first step."


    Raven absorbed the information. The potion wasn''t revolutionary, but it was proof of concept. More importantly, it confirmed that he could push the boundaries of conventional alchemy.


    Varian leaned against the table, arms crossed.


    > "Now that you''ve proven your ability, we move on to the real lessons."


    A pause. Then¡ª


    > "Are you ready to learn the true secrets of alchemy?"


    Raven''s heart beat just a little faster at the words. The true secrets of alchemy? He had been experimenting for so long, but he knew there was much more to it¡ªsecrets that went beyond ingredients, formulas, and potions. It was about understanding the very nature of transmutation, about bending reality itself to your will.


    "I''m ready."


    His voice was steady, but inside, his mind raced. What would these "true secrets" entail? Was Varian speaking of something darker, more dangerous, or perhaps more refined than he had ever imagined?


    Varian studied him for a moment, the silence stretching between them as if the weight of the question lingered in the air, pressing down on both of them. Then, with a small nod, he pushed himself away from the table.


    "Good. But before we begin, you need to understand one thing," he said, walking slowly toward the far corner of the room, where an ancient, dusty tome sat on a pedestal. The book''s cover was intricately embossed with gold and silver, symbols Raven did not recognize.


    Varian''s eyes never left Raven as he spoke.


    "Alchemy isn''t just about creating. It''s about understanding. It''s about stripping down the layers of reality, revealing what''s beneath."


    Raven shifted on his feet, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his mind. He had always been good at creating things¡ªpotions, concoctions, mixtures¡ªbut understanding the true essence of things? That was a different beast altogether.


    Varian gestured to the book.


    "This is where it begins. The true study of alchemy is a study of the world itself. And that, Raven, requires more than just skill. It requires sacrifice."


    Raven''s brow furrowed, the weight of the words sinking in. Sacrifice? What was Varian suggesting?


    "Sacrifice?" Raven asked, the word tasting strange on his tongue.


    Varian''s gaze softened for a brief moment, as if weighing his next words carefully.


    "You cannot alter the world without consequences. Alchemy... it''s not just the manipulation of physical matter. It''s the manipulation of life itself. When you change one thing, you change everything."


    He turned his eyes back to the tome, his hand resting lightly on its cover.


    "Are you prepared for that, Raven?"


    Raven''s throat went dry. The weight of the decision loomed over him¡ªwhat was he truly willing to risk for this knowledge? For this power?


    "I am," he said, almost before he fully understood the depth of his own words.


    Varian''s lips curled into a smile, but it was a smile that carried no warmth¡ªonly the cool, calculating approval of someone who had seen the path and knew the price it demanded.


    "Good. Let''s begin, then."


    And with that, Varian opened the tome. As the pages turned, the air around them seemed to grow heavier, the room darker, as if the very act of unveiling these ancient secrets had begun to draw the shadows closer.


    Raven could feel it¡ªhe could feel something shifting inside him, something stirring at the edge of his consciousness. Whatever lay ahead, it would change him. And in that moment, he was ready for it.


    The Mission


    Varian''s gaze darkened, and his voice grew more serious. He walked toward Raven, his posture rigid, as though preparing to impart a final, crucial order.


    "I''m not asking you to fight beasts this time," he said, his tone becoming more focused, "You need those plants for research."


    Raven paused, confused. Poisonous plants? That didn''t sound like the kind of mission Varian would normally assign¡ªat least not in the way he had been expecting. But Varian''s eyes, steady and unblinking, gave him no room to question further.


    "What kind of research?" Raven asked, trying to keep his voice steady. The idea of facing the toxic flora of the cave had been daunting enough, but now there was an additional layer of complexity.


    Varian''s eyes flicked toward the mysterious alchemy book he had handed over earlier. His fingers drummed lightly on its cover before he spoke again, a certain satisfaction in his tone.


    "These plants are unlike anything else in alchemical studies. They''re not just dangerous¡ªthey are key to unlocking the next stage of alchemical advancement. Some of these plants contain properties that could help advance the understanding of transmutation, enhancement, and even regeneration. They are powerful, volatile, and extremely rare."


    Raven''s mind began to race. The cave was filled with poisonous plants¡ªmutated and dangerous. Yet, Varian was asking him to retrieve them for some sort of groundbreaking research? That kind of knowledge could be more valuable than Raven had imagined. If he could harness their potential¡­


    "So, you want me to go into the Poison Cave," Raven began, slowly piecing together the puzzle, "and gather plants?"


    Varian nodded, his face serious.


    "Not just gather. Destroy the plants safely, Raven. The toxins within them are volatile and deadly. They''ve begun to spread beyond the cave, slowly poisoning the land around it. If left unchecked, the contamination will only grow worse. The plants, however, can be harvested for their alchemical properties. That is why I''m sending you. You will use this book to guide your actions."


    Raven turned the book over in his hands, feeling the weight of it. He could sense the power within it, the potential that came with knowledge so forbidden. The Poison Cave was already dangerous, with its overrun flora and the toxic air that filled it. But to destroy the plants without letting the toxins spread¡ªor worse, explode¡ªwould take finesse, precision, and caution.


    "What exactly am I supposed to do once I''m inside?" Raven asked, his voice steady, despite the lingering unease.


    Varian''s expression grew colder, his eyes narrowing.


    "The plants within the cave are like no others. Many are alchemical creations¡ªmutations that have thrived due to their environment. But they''re unstable. Some are ancient, their roots tied to the very essence of the earth, and some were created with methods that went too far, too deep into forbidden knowledge."


    He paused, his gaze piercing.


    "You will need to extract the essence from these plants without triggering the toxins. The book will guide you, but you must follow it exactly. One wrong move, and the cave will turn against you, releasing a cascade of poison. And if the plants are destroyed improperly, the toxins could spread faster than you can imagine. If you fail, the contamination could spread across miles, rendering entire areas uninhabitable. You understand?"


    Raven nodded slowly, feeling the weight of Varian''s words. The Poison Cave wasn''t just a place of danger¡ªit was a ticking time bomb, and he was being sent to disarm it.


    "I understand," Raven said, his voice grim.


    Varian''s eyes softened, just slightly, as he nodded.


    "Good. Take what you need from the alchemy lab. I''ll prepare a few things for you. And remember, Raven¡ªthe plants are the key to something bigger than you realize. Handle them carefully."


    Raven turned to leave, the weight of the book in his hand, the mission clear before him. The Poison Cave awaited, and the fate of the plants¡ªand perhaps alchemy itself¡ªwas now in his hands

 chapter 52 quest details

    System Message:


    Epic Quest: Poisonous Plants Destruction


    Quest Giver: Varian, Master Alchemist of the Alchemy Academy in Viles Town


    Objective: Collect and destroy poisonous plants that are corrupting the land from the Poison Cave in Starlight Forest.


    Quest Progress:


    ? Poisonous Plants Collected: 0/5


    ? Location: Poison Cave, Starlight Forest


    ? Current Known Plants to Collect:


    ? Nightshade (1/1)


    ? Bloodroot (0/1)


    ? Deathbloom (0/3)


    Varian''s Guidance:


    As the Master Alchemist at the prestigious Alchemy Academy in Viles Town, Varian has extensive knowledge of these toxic plants. He warns that the Poison Cave is teeming with dangerous flora and fauna. However, with his guidance, Raven may be able to harness the power of these plants for greater purposes.


    Alchemy-Based Extraction:


    Varian has provided Raven with a special alchemical kit to harvest and store the poisonous plants safely. Raven should be cautious, as the plants may release harmful toxins if mishandled.


    Destruction Methods (Guided by Alchemy):


    ? Alchemy Solutions Provided by Varian:


    ? Elixir of Purification: An antidote-like potion to safely neutralize the toxins within the plants. It can be used directly on the plants or in a mixture to destroy them.


    ? Alchemical Flame: A concentrated fire produced by a mix of volatile ingredients. This flame can burn the plants without causing widespread contamination from toxic fumes.


    ? Acidic Solution: A powerful alchemical liquid that can dissolve the plants without harming the land. It''s best used on the more resilient, poisonous flora.


    Destruction Recommendation:


    ? Neutralize with Elixir: Varian suggests using the Elixir of Purification on the plants first to prevent any harmful effects before destroying them.


    ? Burning with Alchemical Flame: If Raven wishes to burn the plants, they should apply the Elixir of Purification first to avoid toxic fumes spreading.


    ? Use Acidic Solution: For tough-to-handle plants like Deathbloom, use the Acidic Solution to safely dissolve them.


    Quest Rewards (Pending Completion):


    ? XP: 0 XP (To be awarded upon completing all objectives)


    ? Items:


    ? Mystic Herb Satchel: A special satchel that protects against toxins when equipped.


    ? Potion of Antidote: Restores health and removes toxins immediately upon consumption.


    ? Alchemist''s Primer: Unlocks recipes for advanced alchemical potions and solutions.


    ? Poisonous Plant Extract: Use this in Varian''s Academy for crafting powerful alchemical items.


    ? Skill Rewards:


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    ? Herbal Mastery: Identifies and neutralizes toxic plants with ease.


    ? Alchemical Knowledge: Improves your ability to craft potions, brew elixirs, and use alchemical ingredients efficiently.


    ? Additional Reward:


    (Unrevealed - Will be unlocked after full completion.)


    Important Information:


    ? Poison Cave Hazards: The Poison Cave is filled with venomous creatures, toxic gases, and aggressive plant life. Raven should come prepared with protective gear or a Toxin-Resistant Cloak from Varian''s Academy.


    ? Poisonous Guardians: The plants are protected by magical and physical guardians, including venomous serpents and enchanted plant creatures.


    ? Alchemy Station at the Academy: Once the plants are collected, Raven can return to the Alchemy Academy in Viles Town to use Varian''s private alchemy station to craft, refine, and safely destroy the plants with alchemical solutions.


    Quest Status: Ongoing


    ? Completion Requirements: Collect all 5 poisonous plants and destroy them using the proper alchemical method.


    ? Current Location: Poison Cave, Starlight Forest


    Varian''s Next Instructions:


    ? Important Reminder: Varian emphasizes that timing is crucial. The longer the poisonous plants remain unchecked, the more dangerous the situation becomes. He suggests a quick return after collecting the plants to make use of his academy''s alchemical resources.


    System Message:


    Epic Quest: Poisonous Plants Destruction


    Quest Giver: Varian, Master Alchemist of the Alchemy Academy in Viles Town


    Objective: Collect and destroy poisonous plants corrupting the land from the Poison Cave in Starlight Forest.


    Quest Progress:


    ? Poisonous Plants Collected: 0/5


    ? Location: Poison Cave, Starlight Forest


    ? Current Known Plants to Collect:


    ? Nightshade (1/1)


    ? Bloodroot (0/1)


    ? Deathbloom (0/3)


    Varian''s Guidance:


    As the Master Alchemist at the prestigious Alchemy Academy in Viles Town, Varian has extensive knowledge of these toxic plants. He warns that the Poison Cave is teeming with dangerous flora and fauna. However, with his guidance, Raven may be able to harness the power of these plants for greater purposes.


    Alchemy-Based Extraction:


    Varian has provided Raven with a special alchemical kit to harvest and store the poisonous plants safely. Raven should be cautious, as the plants may release harmful toxins if mishandled.


    Destruction Methods (Guided by Alchemy):


    ? Alchemy Solutions Provided by Varian:


    ? Elixir of Purification: An antidote-like potion to safely neutralize the toxins within the plants. It can be used directly on the plants or in a mixture to destroy them.


    ? Alchemical Flame: A concentrated fire produced by a mix of volatile ingredients. This flame can burn the plants without causing widespread contamination from toxic fumes.


    ? Acidic Solution: A powerful alchemical liquid that can dissolve the plants without harming the land. It''s best used on the more resilient, poisonous flora.


    Destruction Recommendation:


    ? Neutralize with Elixir: Varian suggests using the Elixir of Purification on the plants first to prevent any harmful effects before destroying them.


    ? Burning with Alchemical Flame: If Raven wishes to burn the plants, they should apply the Elixir of Purification first to avoid toxic fumes spreading.


    ? Use Acidic Solution: For tough-to-handle plants like Deathbloom, use the Acidic Solution to safely dissolve them.


    Quest Rewards (Pending Completion):


    ? XP: 0 XP (To be awarded upon completing all objectives)


    ? Items:


    ? Mystic Herb Satchel: A special satchel that protects against toxins when equipped.


    ? Potion of Antidote: Restores health and removes toxins immediately upon consumption.


    ? Alchemist''s Primer: Unlocks recipes for advanced alchemical potions and solutions.


    ? Poisonous Plant Extract: Use this in Varian''s Academy for crafting powerful alchemical items.


    ? Skill Rewards:


    ? Herbal Mastery: Identifies and neutralizes toxic plants with ease.


    ? Alchemical Knowledge: Improves your ability to craft potions, brew elixirs, and use alchemical ingredients efficiently.


    ? Additional Reward:


    (Unrevealed - Will be unlocked after full completion.)


    Important Information:


    ? Poison Cave Hazards: The Poison Cave is filled with venomous creatures, toxic gases, and aggressive plant life. Raven should come prepared with protective gear or a Toxin-Resistant Cloak from Varian''s Academy.


    ? Poisonous Guardians: The plants are protected by magical and physical guardians, including venomous serpents and enchanted plant creatures.


    ? Alchemy Station at the Academy: Once the plants are collected, Raven can return to the Alchemy Academy in Viles Town to use Varian''s private alchemy station to craft, refine, and safely destroy the plants with alchemical solutions.


    Quest Status: Ongoing


    ? Completion Requirements: Collect all 5 poisonous plants and destroy them using the proper alchemical method.


    ? Current Location: Poison Cave, Starlight Forest


    Varian''s Next Instructions:


    ? Important Reminder: Varian emphasizes that timing is crucial. The longer the poisonous plants remain unchecked, the more dangerous the situation becomes. He suggests a quick return after collecting the plants to make use of his academy''s alchemical resources.


    Raven''s Current Decision:


    After careful consideration, Raven has decided to delay the task of dealing with the poisonous plants for a later time. There are other pressing matters that need attention, and Raven feels that a bit more preparation might be required before heading into the dangerous Poison Cave. Varian''s academy is always open for guidance, and there may be more alchemical resources or insights Raven can acquire to better handle the plants

 chapter 53 occupation and dungeon

    Daniel was lounging on the couch, one arm draped lazily over the backrest while the other held his phone on speaker. Liz sat beside him, one leg crossed over the other, scrolling through her inventory with an unimpressed expression. Ana was sprawled out on the floor, feet kicking in the air as she stared at Daniel like he was the funniest thing to ever exist.


    "You seduced NPCs for EXP?" Raven''s flat tone came through the phone.


    Daniel grinned, stretching his arms behind his head. "Multiple NPCs, actually. Some people grind mobs, some people grind quests... I grind hearts."


    Liz didn''t even look up. "Wow. Truly, an inspiration to us all. Your mother must be so proud."


    Ana, meanwhile, was dying. She rolled onto her back, clutching her stomach as she gasped for breath between wheezing laughter. "I¡ª I can''t! This is the most Daniel thing ever! He''s out here playing a dating sim while the rest of us suffer through fetch quests!"


    Daniel shot her finger guns. "Hey, don''t hate the player, hate the game. If the devs didn''t want NPCs to fall for me, they shouldn''t have made my charisma stat so damn high."


    Liz finally looked up, deadpan. "You dumped all your points into charisma, didn''t you?"


    Daniel smirked. "And it''s paying off."


    Raven groaned on the other end. "I swear, if you get an NPC wife before I even finish my alchemy trial, I''m uninstalling this game."


    Ana wiped away tears. "No, no, this is gold. Daniel, you have to see how far you can take this. Like, can you get free housing? Rare gear? An NPC army?"


    Daniel wiggled his eyebrows. "Oh, just wait. I already got a merchant to ''accidentally'' give me a 50% discount after a few compliments. The world is my oyster, and I intend to romance all of it."


    Liz groaned. "We''re going to have to stage an intervention, aren''t we?"


    Raven just sighed. This game was going to be absolute chaos.


    Raven sighed, rubbing his temples. "Alright, enough of your nonsense. Once you three finish your beginner quests, contact me. We need to go to Poison Cave¡ªit''s for an occupation."


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    Daniel perked up. "Oho, a dungeon run already? Sounds fun."


    Liz shot him a look. "You do realize that means actual combat, right? Not just goofing off with NPCs."


    Raven shook his head. "It''s not a dungeon. It''s for an occupation."


    Daniel smirked. "Hey, if there''s a way to talk my way into an easy job, I will find it."


    Ana clapped her hands together, excited. "Poison Cave, huh? That sounds deadly! I love it."


    Raven rolled his eyes. "Just hurry up and get it done. And Daniel, try not to become the cave''s mascot before we go."


    Daniel gasped dramatically. "Rude. You act like I don''t take this game seriously."


    Liz snorted. "You don''t."


    Ana grinned. "And that''s why it''s so entertaining."


    Raven hung up before he could hear any more nonsense. Poison Cave was waiting, and if he knew these three, things were about to get way more chaotic than expected.


    Yes, in Mortal Online, an Occupation is different from a Dungeon.


    Dungeons are instanced or open-world areas filled with enemies, bosses, and loot. They are designed for combat challenges and usually require a party to complete.


    Occupations, on the other hand, are player-controlled contested zones that offer unique resources, quests, or strategic advantages. They are often controlled by NPC factions or guilds, and players may have to fight NPCs or rival players to access them.


    Poison Cave (Occupation)


    Poison Cave is not a typical dungeon but an Occupation, meaning it''s a contested area.


    NPC factions (or even player guilds) may fight for control over it.


    It likely has valuable resources related to poison, alchemy, or rare monsters.


    Raven''s quest here might require dealing with hostile NPCs, poison creatures, or rival players trying to claim the area.


    If they gain control, they might unlock exclusive benefits like special alchemy recipes or poison-related skills.


    This means Raven and his group aren''t just diving into a dungeon¡ªthey''re walking into a contested battlefield where anything could happen.


    Raven made his way through the bustling streets of Viles Town, heading straight for the Alchemy Center. The towering building, adorned with intricate carvings of bubbling potions and mystical symbols, was one of the few places in town where alchemists could work in peace.


    He stepped inside, the scent of herbs and simmering concoctions filling the air. The receptionist, a middle-aged woman in a deep green robe, barely glanced up from her ledger.


    "Renting a room?" she asked, already flipping to the appropriate page.


    Raven nodded. "Yeah, just a basic one."


    "One silver per hour. Payment upfront."


    He handed over the coin without hesitation. After the Alchemy Apprentice trial, he had received the recipe for a basic health potion. Now, he needed a quiet space to test it out.


    The receptionist slid a key across the counter. "Room three, down the hall. Don''t burn the place down."


    Raven smirked but said nothing. With the key in hand, he made his way to the rented room, ready to see if he could successfully craft his first potion.


    As Raven walked down the hall to his rented room, he could feel the eyes of other players lingering on him. A few stood near the entrance, whispering among themselves, while others shot envious glances his way.


    "How the hell did he already get access to an alchemy room?" one player muttered.


    "Must''ve completed some kind of hidden quest," another grumbled. "I''ve been trying to get an occupation since launch, and this guy''s already brewing potions?"


    "Tch. Rich player, probably," a third scoffed. "Who else can afford to rent a room this early?"


    Raven ignored them and pushed open the door to his rented space. Inside was a simple wooden table, a small alchemy station with a basic cauldron, and shelves stocked with common ingredients. It wasn''t much, but it was all he needed to start.


    Locking the door behind him, he let out a breath. "Time to see if this was worth it."


    Pulling out the materials he received from the trial, he set to work, knowing full well that outside, the envy of other players would only grow once they realized what he was capable of.

 chapter 54 basic health and posion potion

    Raven stepped into the rented alchemy room, locking the door behind him. The space was small but well-equipped, a quiet sanctuary from the envious eyes of other players lingering outside. He could still hear their murmurs, their frustration evident as they gossiped about how he had managed to get an alchemy room so early in the game. But he didn''t care.


    His focus was entirely on the Silver Furnace sitting against the far wall. It was the key to his advantage. Unlike the basic furnaces most beginner alchemists had access to, the Silver Furnace provided a more stable and precise heat, allowing for greater control over potion-making. For most players, obtaining such a furnace this early was impossible. Yet here he was, standing before it, ready to craft his very first potion using the knowledge he had gained from the Alchemy Apprentice Trial.


    He set his bag down on the wooden table and pulled out the materials he had acquired. The Healing Herb and the Spiritual Flower¡ªtwo essential ingredients for making a basic health potion¡ªhad been purchased from the auction house at a ridiculously low price. Other players had likely overlooked their value, unaware of how potent they could be when combined correctly. That was their loss and his gain.


    Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients


    Raven rolled up his sleeves and picked up the Healing Herb, examining it closely. Its green leaves were slightly dry but still potent. This was the base of the health potion, containing natural regenerative properties. However, using it raw would be inefficient. It needed to be refined.


    He placed the leaves into the mortar and began grinding them with slow, even pressure. The stone pestle crushed the fibers, releasing a strong herbal scent as the leaves broke down into a fine paste. This was the key to extraction¡ªbreaking down the plant''s cellular structure to draw out its medicinal essence.


    Once satisfied with the consistency, he set the mortar aside and turned his attention to the Spiritual Flower. This was the catalyst, the ingredient that would enhance the potion''s purity and effectiveness. Unlike the Healing Herb, it was far more delicate. Mishandling it could weaken its potency. Carefully, he plucked the petals one by one, making sure not to damage them, then placed them into a separate bowl. Instead of grinding them, he used a small wooden press to crush them gently, extracting a faintly glowing liquid that shimmered under the room''s lantern light.


    Step 2: Heating the Base in the Silver Furnace


    With the ingredients prepared, it was time to begin the brewing process. He moved to the Silver Furnace and adjusted the settings, ensuring the temperature was just below boiling. Unlike common furnaces, which often overheated and ruined delicate ingredients, the Silver Furnace allowed precise control, making it invaluable for high-quality potion crafting.


    Raven poured clean water into the cauldron, watching as the heat slowly caused tiny bubbles to form along the edges. This was the perfect moment to add the Healing Herb paste. He scooped a measured amount and carefully dropped it into the cauldron. The moment it touched the hot water, the liquid shifted to a faint green hue as the herb''s essence dissolved, releasing a slightly bitter aroma into the air.


    He picked up the glass stirring rod and began stirring in slow, controlled motions. The goal was to ensure even distribution, allowing the herb''s properties to infuse properly without clumping. If he rushed this step, the potion''s effectiveness would decrease significantly.


    Step 3: Adding the Catalyst


    Once the Healing Herb had fully dissolved, Raven turned his attention to the Spiritual Flower extract. This was the most delicate stage. Adding the catalyst too early would weaken its effects; too late, and it wouldn''t blend properly.


    Carefully, he lifted the small vial containing the extracted essence and began dripping it into the cauldron. The moment the first drop touched the green liquid, a faint shimmer spread through the mixture. He added the rest, watching as the potion''s color shifted from dull green to a soft golden hue. The shimmering effect was subtle, but it was a clear sign that the catalyst was bonding with the herbal properties, enhancing the potion''s effectiveness.


    He continued stirring, making sure the catalyst fully merged with the base. Each motion of the stirring rod was precise, maintaining a consistent flow to avoid separation.


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    Step 4: Refinement


    Now came the final stage¡ªrefinement. Most beginner alchemists failed at this step due to poor heat control or impatience. Raven, however, had the Silver Furnace, giving him an edge.


    He adjusted the heat slightly, allowing the potion to simmer for a few more minutes. This process concentrated the mixture, ensuring the effects would be stronger than a regular low-grade health potion. The liquid thickened slightly, but not too much¡ªan important balance to maintain its shelf life and effectiveness.


    A soft notification appeared before him:


    [Basic Health Potion (Mid-Grade) Created! ¨C Alchemy Proficiency +10]


    Raven exhaled, a small smirk forming on his lips. Mid-Grade. That was better than expected. Most new alchemists could only produce Low-Grade potions at this stage, but thanks to the Silver Furnace and his careful technique, he had already surpassed the norm.


    He reached for a clean glass vial and carefully poured the golden liquid inside, sealing it with a cork. Holding it up to the light, he examined the potion''s clarity. No impurities, no separation¡ªjust a smooth, perfectly blended health potion.


    Outside the room, he could still hear the faint murmurs of other players.


    "How the hell is he crafting potions already?"


    "He even got a private alchemy room¡­ He must be a rich player."


    "Tch, probably got lucky with a hidden quest or something."


    Raven chuckled to himself. Let them be jealous.


    Expanding Horizons: Alchemy''s True Potential


    Raven placed the Mid-Grade Basic Health Potion on the table and leaned back, assessing his progress. His first successful potion using the Silver Furnace had been a clear success. The shimmering golden liquid inside the vial was proof that his technique was solid, but he wasn''t satisfied yet. This was just a basic potion, a stepping stone. He needed more¡ªbetter quality, stronger effects, and a deeper understanding of alchemy itself.


    His fingers tapped against the wooden table as he considered his next move. He still had a few more Healing Herbs and Spiritual Flowers left, enough to make a couple more potions. But there was another option¡ªone that would set him apart even further from the other players stuck outside, envious of his head start.


    Experimentation.


    A health potion was simple, but alchemy wasn''t limited to just healing. Poison, buffs, debuffs¡ªthese were the true strengths of an alchemist. If he wanted to dominate the early game economy, he needed to start crafting things that other players couldn''t easily replicate.


    He opened his inventory and scrolled through the list of ingredients he had picked up. Most of his materials had come from the Auction House, but the most valuable ones weren''t bought¡ªthey were taken.


    The Venomous Ivy and Dew of the Nightshade¡ªtwo key ingredients for poison crafting¡ªhad been looted from Garrett and Varian when Raven took them down. Both had been carrying rare alchemy materials, likely intended for their own uses. It was a lucky break. Instead of wasting time searching for poison-related ingredients, he had them handed to him by enemies who wouldn''t be needing them anymore.


    A smirk crossed his lips. Fitting.


    Garrett had stood in his way, and now, even in death, they were serving his cause. and var


    ian helped him to get materials easily


    Step 1: Preparing a Poison


    Raven pulled out the Venomous Ivy and examined its dark green leaves. Unlike the Healing Herb, which crumbled easily under pressure, this plant was fibrous and tough, requiring more effort to break down. He grabbed the mortar and pestle and began crushing the leaves with slow, steady force. A pungent, slightly acrid scent filled the air, a clear sign of its toxic nature.


    Next was the Dew of the Nightshade. Unlike the previous ingredients, this wasn''t something he could grind. It was a delicate liquid, and mishandling it would ruin its potency. He carefully uncorked the small glass vial containing the dew and set it aside, ready for later.


    Step 2: Heating the Base


    This time, he needed a different approach. The Silver Furnace was excellent for precise control, but poisons required lower heat compared to healing potions. Too much heat could burn away the toxin''s effects, rendering it useless.


    He poured a smaller amount of water into the cauldron and adjusted the furnace''s temperature, keeping it at a gentle simmer rather than a full boil. When the water was warm enough, he added the crushed Venomous Ivy, watching as the liquid turned a murky green.


    Unlike the smooth infusion of the Healing Herb, this mixture thickened quickly, requiring constant stirring to prevent it from clumping. The scent of the toxin became more pronounced, almost sharp enough to sting his nose.


    Step 3: Enhancing the Poison


    Now came the critical moment¡ªadding the Dew of the Nightshade.


    Raven picked up the vial and slowly dripped the liquid into the cauldron. The moment the first drop hit the surface, the entire mixture darkened, shifting from murky green to a deep purple. He added the rest, watching as the potion stabilized. A faint shimmer ran through it, different from the golden glow of a health potion. This shimmer was more sinister, almost hypnotic.


    A notification flashed across his interface.


    [Toxic Mist Potion (Weak) Created! ¨C Alchemy Proficiency +15]


    His eyes narrowed. Weak, huh? It wasn''t unexpected. Poisons were harder to craft than healing potions, and he still lacked the necessary proficiency to make anything stronger. But even a weak poison had its uses. If applied to a dagger or an arrow, it could inflict minor poison damage over time, weakening an opponent in combat.


    Step 4: Sealing the Poison


    He took a small glass vial and carefully poured the dark purple liquid inside, sealing it with a cork. Holding it up to the light, he noted the way it clung to the sides of the vial¡ªviscous, almost oily. This wasn''t something to be taken lightly.


    Setting the poison aside, he exhaled slowly. This was progress.


    Not only had he managed to brew a Mid-Grade Basic Health Potion, but he had also successfully crafted his first poison. His alchemy proficiency was climbing faster than he had expected, and with the Silver Furnace, his success rate was already leagues ahead of most players.


    Looking Ahead


    Raven''s mind raced with possibilities.


    He had already gained an edge by entering alchemy early, and now he had a working poison. But this was just the beginning.


    Refining his poisons ¨C He needed to experiment more to increase their potency.


    Finding rare ingredients ¨C If he wanted to create truly powerful potions, he had to track down high-quality materials.


    Establishing a business ¨C Healing potions, poisons, buffs¡ªthese were all valuable commodities. If he played his cards right, he could corner the market before other players even caught on.

 chapter 55 panic in auction house

    As Raven finished sealing the last of his Poison Potions, a notification popped up.


    [You have gained experience from crafting. Your level has increased!]


    [Level Up! You are now Level 3 (25% Progress).]


    A slow smirk spread across his face. Alchemy wasn''t just profitable¡ªit was a power grind. While other players were still struggling to level up by killing low-level monsters, he had jumped straight to Level 3 just by brewing potions.


    After three intense hours in the Alchemy Center, Raven finally leaned back, stretching his sore shoulders. The Silver Furnace had proven its worth, allowing him to craft potions at an efficient rate. The results were impressive:


    75 Basic Health Potions


    50 Poison Potions


    His Alchemy Proficiency had increased significantly, pushing him closer to the next level. Each potion brewed had refined his technique, making the process faster and smoother.


    But the real challenge wasn''t just making the potions¡ªit was selling them for the highest profit possible.


    ---


    Potion Statistics & Pricing


    Basic Health Potion (Common)


    Effect: Restores 50 HP instantly.


    Cooldown: 10 seconds


    Weight: 0.1 kg


    Sell Price (NPC Vendor): 3 copper (Too low)


    Sell Price (Players): 10 silver (High demand)


    Poison Potion (Weak)


    Effect: Coats a weapon with poison, applying Poison (Weak) for 30 seconds.


    Deals 5 poison damage per second for 10 seconds.


    Cooldown: None (Can be applied anytime)


    Weight: 0.2 kg


    Sell Price (NPC Vendor): 5 copper (Too low)


    Sell Price (Players): 15 silver (Rare & powerful early-game advantage)


    Raven stepped into the Viles Town Auction House, the grand structure humming with faint magical energy. The air smelled of parchment, ink, and a hint of frustration. Normally, this place would be bustling with independent merchants and solo players trying to flip their loot, but today, it was mostly quiet¡ªexcept for a small group of players near the auction counter, loudly complaining.


    They wore matching emblems¡ªlogistics members from different guilds, the backbone of any large-scale operation. Unlike frontline fighters who basked in glory, these players were the ones handling supplies, managing inventory, and ensuring their guilds had enough resources for battle.


    And right now? They were miserable.


    ---


    Guild Logistics: The Unsung Heroes¡ªAnd Their Growing Frustration


    A heavily armored player slammed a parchment onto the auction counter, scowling at the NPC auctioneer. "This is absurd! There are no health potions left, and the ones that are here are going for 20 silver each! How are we supposed to keep our fighters supplied at this rate?"


    Another logistics officer, a robe-wearing support player, groaned as he checked his guild''s inventory. "We were supposed to have a full stock before tonight''s dungeon raid. Do you know how many potions we need? At least 200! And what do we have? Five! Five overpriced potions!"


    A thief-class logistics officer¡ªlikely responsible for managing rogue supplies¡ªcrossed his arms and sneered, "I swear, some alchemists must be hoarding stock on purpose. This isn''t normal. Someone is playing the market."


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    The knight scoffed, frustration mounting. "Do these so-called alchemists not realize that without us, the economy collapses? We''re the ones keeping guilds running, managing inventories, and handling trade routes! We don''t even get to fight¡ªwe''re stuck dealing with shortages, overpriced auctions, and people selling junk at ridiculous prices!"


    The healer nodded bitterly, rubbing his temples. "Frontline fighters don''t get it. They just demand, ''Give me 50 potions!'' without knowing how hard it is to actually secure them. The only time anyone notices logistics is when something goes wrong."


    ---


    The Market Situation: The Perfect Storm for Profiteering


    Raven listened, his lips curling into a knowing smirk. Guild logistics were struggling.


    Potion demand was skyrocketing.


    Supply was nonexistent.


    Prices had inflated beyond reason.


    And he held 75 Basic Health Potions in his inventory.


    Raven pulled up the auction house interface, browsing the current listings. Just as the guild members had complained, only a handful of health potions remained¡ªeach priced at 15 to 20 silver. That was nearly ten times the NPC vendor price, but even then, they were vanishing fast.


    Desperate guilds had no choice but to pay.


    And Raven? He was about to capitalize on that desperation.


    Instead of dumping all 75 potions into the auction house at once like a fool, Raven employed a calculated strategy.


    1. List only 10 potions at a time ¨C By keeping supply low, he would maintain high demand and ensure that every batch sold at inflated prices.


    2. Price them at 12 silver each ¨C Slightly lower than competitors, making his stock the first to sell while undercutting others and driving up urgency.


    3. Wait for the panic to spread ¨C As guilds rushed to buy, he could slowly increase the price, milking every silver possible.


    With a few quick taps, he listed 10 Basic Health Potions at 12 silver each.


    ---


    Immediate Results: The Panic Sets In


    Within seconds, one of the logistics officers noticed the new listing.


    "Wait! Someone just put up ten potions¡ª12 silver each!"


    The knight scowled but clicked purchase instantly. "That''s still a rip-off, but we need them!"


    [10 Basic Health Potions Sold.]


    Raven smirked. Too easy.


    The healer groaned. "Whoever this alchemist is, they better keep listing more. Otherwise, we''re screwed."


    Raven chuckled under his breath. Oh, he would list more, alright. But only when the price was just right.


    The Second Wave: Raising the Price


    Raven leaned against the auction house counter, watching the desperate guild logistics officers scramble for potions. They had no idea he was the seller.


    The first batch of 10 health potions had sold instantly, proving that guilds were in full-blown panic mode. The moment one logistics officer grabbed them, the others rushed to refresh the auction page, hoping for more.


    But Raven didn''t immediately list another batch. He let them sweat.


    ---


    The Desperation Builds


    The knight gritted his teeth. "Damn it! That was barely enough for one squad! Where the hell are the rest?"


    The thief-class logistics officer tapped his fingers impatiently. "We need at least 30 more potions before our tanks can move out. If we don''t find them, our entire raid plan is screwed."


    The healer groaned, rubbing his temples. "You don''t understand. We''re not the only ones struggling. Other guilds are in the same situation. The second another batch appears, they''re gonna snatch them up instantly."


    Raven smirked. Exactly as planned.


    ---


    Strategic Pricing: The Next Move


    Since the first 10 sold instantly at 12 silver each, Raven raised the price slightly before listing the next batch.


    [You have listed 10 Basic Health Potions at 14 silver each.]


    The moment they appeared, one of the logistics officers immediately clicked purchase.


    [10 Basic Health Potions Sold.]


    The knight cursed. "Damn it! That price went up!"


    The thief scowled. "I knew it! These sellers are price-gouging us!"


    The healer sighed in frustration. "Doesn''t matter¡ªwe still need more. We''ll take whatever we can get."


    ---


    The Final Price Surge


    Raven chuckled to himself. The guilds had no choice but to keep buying. They had already committed to the raid, and without potions, they couldn''t afford to go in.


    Since the first two batches sold instantly, Raven pushed his strategy even further:


    [You have listed 10 Basic Health Potions at 16 silver each.]


    Despite their complaints, the guild logistics officers rushed to buy again. They had no time to hesitate.


    [10 Basic Health Potions Sold.]


    The thief slammed his fist on the counter. "We just paid 16 silver per potion. This is a damn monopoly!"


    The knight exhaled sharply. "Doesn''t matter. If we don''t buy them, someone else will."


    The healer clenched his jaw. "Fine. Just grab whatever shows up next."


    Raven smirked. They had taken the bait completely.


    With only 45 potions left in his inventory, he knew exactly what to do. Raise the price one more time¡ªand watch them scramble.


    The Final Squeeze: Milking Every Silver from the Desperate Guilds


    Raven casually browsed the auction house interface, pretending to inspect weapon listings while silently enjoying the growing frustration of the guild logistics officers.


    They were stuck.


    They had no reliable supply of health potions, yet their guild leaders were demanding them. With a dungeon raid on the line, they couldn''t return empty-handed. Even at ridiculous prices, they had no choice but to keep buying.


    ---


    Guild Logistics: Breaking Under Pressure


    The knight sighed, checking his remaining guild funds. "We''ve already spent over 300 silver on potions, and we''re still short. We''ll have to cut into our emergency budget."


    The thief scowled. "We''re wasting money because of some greedy alchemist playing the market."


    The healer rubbed his temples. "At this point, I don''t care. We need at least 20 more potions before the raid starts." He glanced at the auction listings again. "Damn it! Nothing new yet!"


    The tension among them was growing.


    And that''s exactly what Raven wanted.


    ---


    The Perfect Moment: Raising the Price Again


    He let them sweat for a few more minutes. Let them panic. Let them think they had bought out the last available stock.


    Then, at the perfect moment¡ªjust when they were getting desperate¡ªhe listed the next batch.


    [You have listed 10 Basic Health Potions at 18 silver each.]


    The moment the listing appeared, the knight immediately clicked buy without hesitation.


    [10 Basic Health Potions Sold.]


    The thief groaned. "Damn it! It went up again!"


    The healer clenched his fists. "This is straight-up robbery! But what can we do? If we don''t buy, we lose the raid."


    The knight cursed. "We need 10 more potions at minimum. If another batch shows up, buy them instantly¡ªno matter the price."


    Raven smirked. Now, they were fully trapped.


    ---


    The Final Blow: Testing Their Breaking Point


    Since the last batch sold instantly, Raven pushed his luck to the limit.


    He listed the final 10 potions at a ridiculous price:


    [You have listed 10 Basic Health Potions at 20 silver each.]


    There was a brief moment of hesitation. The guild members exchanged nervous glances.


    20 silver per potion was insane.


    But they were already committed. They had no other options.


    With a frustrated growl, the knight gritted his teeth and clicked purchase.


    [10 Basic Health Potions Sold.]


    The thief threw up his hands. "I can''t believe we just paid 20 silver per potion. This is a goddamn scam."


    The healer groaned. "Whoever this alchemist is, I hope they choke on their profits."


    The knight sighed in defeat. "We''re done here. Let''s go before we spend even more."


    As the group stormed out of the auction house, Raven leaned back and checked his balance.


    ---


    Total Profits:


    75 Health Potions Sold


    Price Range: 12¨C20 silver each


    Total Earnings: Over 1,100 silver


    He had just made a fortune.


    And the best part? He wasn''t done yet.


    Because while these guilds were struggling to stay alive¡­


    He had 50 Poison Potions ready to sell next.

 chapter 56 posion potion rampage in auction house

    The Aftermath: Guild Logistics in Shambles


    The Viles Town Auction House had quieted down, but the air was thick with frustration. The guild logistics officers stood in a tight circle, arguing amongst themselves, their faces pale with stress.


    Their raid was in just a few hours, and they had burned through their entire potion budget¡ªspending more than twice what they had planned.


    And now?


    They had to face the wrath of their guild leaders.


    ---


    The Breakdown: Despair Among Logistics Officers


    The knight, usually composed, rubbed his temples in frustration. "We just spent over 1,100 silver on potions. Do you know what that means?"


    The thief growled, kicking the ground. "It means we''re broke. We don''t even have enough left for antidotes or mana potions!"


    The healer buried his face in his hands. "We''re so screwed. The guild leader''s gonna kill us. This is literally the worst logistics run I''ve ever done."


    A messenger from their guild ran into the auction house, out of breath. "Oi! What the hell is taking so long? The officers are furious. They were expecting a full stock of potions by now!"


    The knight let out a shaky sigh. "We got them¡­ but at a huge cost."


    The messenger''s eyes widened. "Wait¡­ how much did you idiots spend?"


    The thief hesitated before muttering, "Over 1,100 silver."


    There was a long, tense silence.


    Then, the messenger burst out laughing. "Oh, you''re DEAD. Absolutely DEAD."


    The healer groaned, shaking his head. "They''re gonna make us pay this back, aren''t they?"


    The knight sighed. "I don''t even wanna check my messages. I already know our leader is furious."


    As if on cue, a flurry of system messages flooded their inboxes.


    > [Guild Leader: How the hell did you idiots spend 1,100 silver on basic potions? WHO authorized this?!]


    [Guild Officer: Are you joking? That''s enough money to buy gear upgrades!]


    [Guild Leader: If we wipe because of this, I swear¡ª]


    The thief winced. "Yup. We''re gonna get kicked out."


    The healer sighed. "No, worse. We''re gonna get demoted to guild errand boys."


    ---


    Dark Solution''s Entrance: Alex Arrives, Clueless as Ever


    Just as the logistics officers were spiraling into despair, the doors to the auction house swung open.


    A familiar figure walked in¡ªAlex, the logistics officer from Dark Solution.


    His expression was dull as ever, a vacant look in his eyes as he wandered toward the counter. Unlike the others, he didn''t look stressed. In fact, he looked¡­ completely clueless about what had just happened.


    The thief sneered. "Oh, great. Look who''s here. Dark Solution''s golden boy."


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    The knight crossed his arms. "Bet he got his potions for cheap, huh?"


    Alex blinked slowly, as if struggling to process the hostility. "Huh? What are you guys talking about?"


    The healer groaned. "Please tell me you didn''t already buy your potions."


    Alex tilted his head. "Uh¡­ no? I just got here."


    There was a brief moment of silence.


    Then, the entire group erupted into laughter.


    ---


    Realization Hits: Alex is Completely Screwed


    The thief doubled over laughing. "Oh, man. You''re dead. You should have been here 30 minutes ago."


    The knight smirked. "Good luck finding potions now, buddy. They''re completely wiped out."


    Alex frowned, opening the auction house menu. "Wait¡­ what do you mean?"


    He quickly searched for Basic Health Potions.


    The screen loaded for a second¡­ then showed a single listing.


    [Basic Health Potion ¨C 50 Silver Each]


    Alex''s eyes widened. "Wait, what the hell?! Why are they so expensive?!"


    The healer burst into laughter. "Oh man, I wish I had a screenshot of your face right now."


    The thief grinned. "You should''ve come sooner, Alex. We just spent over 1,100 silver on potions at 20 silver each."


    Alex''s jaw dropped. "TWENTY SILVER?!"


    The knight nodded smugly. "And now? The price is at 50 silver per potion."


    Alex froze, processing the reality of the situation. He needed to buy at least 50 potions for Dark Solution''s raid¡­ and that would cost him over 2,500 silver.


    His face turned pale.


    The healer smirked. "Oh, buddy. Your guild leader is gonna LOVE this."


    Alex stumbled backward, looking genuinely horrified. He pulled up his guild chat, and sure enough¡ª


    > [Guild Leader: Alex, where the hell are the potions?]


    [Guild Officer: You better not say they''re sold out.]


    [Guild Leader: If we miss this raid because of you, you''re DONE.]


    Alex felt his soul leave his body.


    The thief patted his shoulder mockingly. "Welp. It was nice knowing you."


    Alex gulped. "I¡­ I''m dead."


    Raven, who had been watching the whole scene from the sidelines, silently chuckled to himself.


    He had crashed the entire potion market, drained guild resources dry, and left Dark Solution''s logistics officer completely screwed.


    And the best part?


    He still had 50 Poison Potions left to sell.


    Raven leaned against the auction house wall, watching Alex spiral into panic mode as he frantically checked his guild funds. Dark Solution was screwed, and he knew it.


    But Raven''s work wasn''t finished.


    The health potion scam had drained guilds of silver, but there was one more gold mine left to exploit¡ªPoison Potions.


    Unlike health potions, which were a necessity for every player, poison potions had a different kind of demand. Assassins, rogues, and alchemists needed them for their builds. Guilds wanted them for PvP and dungeon raids. And right now?


    No one else was selling them.


    It was time to milk the market even further.


    ---


    A Strategic Drop: Poison Potions Hit the Market


    Raven casually opened his auction menu, smirking as he set the price.


    Health Potions had started at 12 silver and ended at 20 silver.


    Poison Potions? He started them at 15 silver each.


    [You have listed 10 Poison Potions at 15 silver each.]


    He closed the menu and waited.


    And just like before¡­


    They sold instantly.


    ---


    Guilds in Trouble: The New Demand Begins


    Across the auction house, a rogue-class logistics officer cursed loudly. "Damn it! Who bought them all?!"


    A mage from another guild groaned. "We need at least 40 poison potions for our dungeon strat. Who the hell is hoarding them?!"


    A knight overheard and scoffed. "That''s nothing. Our guild needs 100 poison potions for the next raid boss! The entire supply chain is wrecked."


    The realization began spreading fast.


    Health Potions had already been drained from the market.


    Poison Potions were now disappearing just as quickly.


    The few remaining potions were getting snatched up in seconds.


    Raven smirked, watching players scramble in panic.


    Now, they were trapped in the same cycle as before.


    ---


    The Price Hike: Doubling the Silver Flow


    Since the first batch sold instantly, Raven raised the price.


    [You have listed 10 Poison Potions at 18 silver each.]


    This time, the buyers hesitated for barely a second before clicking purchase.


    [10 Poison Potions Sold.]


    A merchant NPC nearby overheard the guild complaints and chuckled. "Tsk. Looks like someone''s cornered the market."


    A guild rogue gritted his teeth. "We need poison potions for our assassins. We can''t go in without them!"


    A mage cursed. "This is a damn monopoly! Someone''s controlling the entire alchemy supply."


    Raven remained completely silent, enjoying the chaos.


    ---


    Desperation Sets In: The Market Is Dying


    By the time Raven listed his third batch at 20 silver each, the auction house was a war zone.


    Players refreshed the auction repeatedly, hoping for a cheaper option.


    Low-rank guilds had completely given up. They couldn''t afford the rising prices.


    The bigger guilds were now fighting among themselves, trying to outbid each other.


    One guild leader stormed into the auction house, furious. "WHO THE HELL IS SELLING THESE POTIONS?!"


    No one answered.


    Raven simply listed another batch.


    [10 Poison Potions at 22 silver each.]


    They sold instantly.


    ---


    Alex''s Worst Nightmare


    Amidst the growing chaos, Alex finally gathered enough courage to check for poison potions.


    He opened the auction and froze.


    Health Potions were completely gone.


    The only Poison Potions available were now at 25 silver each.


    And the total supply? Barely 20 left.


    His face turned pale.


    The thief from before burst out laughing. "Oh man, Alex. You are SO dead."


    The knight chuckled darkly. "First, you failed to buy health potions in time. Now, you need poison potions at 25 silver each? I hope you have savings."


    Alex couldn''t even respond.


    He pulled up his guild chat, dreading what was coming.


    > [Guild Leader: Alex, I swear, if you fail again¡ª]


    [Guild Officer: You better have the poison potions.]


    [Guild Leader: We need at least 50. If they cost more than 20 silver, YOU''RE PAYING THE DIFFERENCE.]


    Alex''s hands shook.


    If he bought them at 25 silver each, he would personally lose over 200 silver.


    If he didn''t buy them, his guild leader would kill him.


    Either way, he was finished.


    Alex felt like vomiting.


    Meanwhile, Raven?


    He casually listed another 10 Poison Potions at 28 silver each.


    And watched as Alex miserably clicked purchase.


    [10 Poison Potions Sold.]


    ---


    Final Profit Breakdown


    After 30 minutes of letting the market destroy itself, Raven checked his earnings.


    50 Poison Potions Sold


    Starting Price: 15 Silver ¡ú Final Price: 28 Silver


    Total Earnings: Over 1,000 Silver


    He had single-handedly drained the wallets of multiple guilds.


    And Dark Solution''s logistics officer, Alex, was now bankrupt.


    Raven closed the auction menu, completely satisfied.


    "Alright," he muttered to himself, stepping away. "Time to prepare for Poison Cave."


    The real game was about to begin.

 chapter 57 raven inner emotions

    Raven''s Inner Thoughts: The True Trap Has Yet to Spring


    Raven stood by the stone pillar, his expression unreadable as the auction house descended into pure chaos.


    All around him, guild logistics officers¡ªthe backbone of major guild operations¡ªwere arguing, complaining, and panicking. They had just burned through their silver reserves, scrambling to secure Health and Poison Potions, thinking they had outmaneuvered the competition.


    But in reality?


    They had already lost.


    Raven didn''t need to do anything but watch.


    Because soon enough, these very guilds would step into Serpent Dungeon (Level 3) and realize something terrifying¡ª


    They had spent their entire fortune on the wrong potions.


    ---


    The Desperation of Guild Logistics


    A young logistics officer from a mid-sized guild ran his hands through his hair, muttering frantically.


    "We just spent over 1,000 silver on these damn potions," he groaned. "How the hell am I supposed to explain this to the guild leader?!"


    A mage logistics officer slammed her staff against the stone floor. "We didn''t have a choice! If we didn''t buy them, someone else would have! It''s a damn supply war!"


    A healer, eyes dark with exhaustion, checked the market again. "We were forced to buy at triple the normal price... and now the supply is gone. This is insane."


    Players were refreshing the auction page over and over, praying for a miracle.


    But Raven?


    He already knew. No miracle was coming.


    ---


    The Market Collapse


    Every potion Raven had sold was overpriced, but that wasn''t the true disaster.


    The real problem?


    None of these potions would help past the first boss of Serpent Dungeon.


    Raven''s fingers tapped against his crossed arms as he mentally walked through the dungeon layout.


    The first boss, Venomfang Serpent, was dangerous, yes. It had lethal poison attacks, and Health Potions would keep players alive long enough to kill it.


    But once that snake was dead, the real nightmare would begin.


    Because after that fight, players would enter the Venom Chamber¡ªa cavern filled with toxic mist that constantly drained health over time.


    And what did players need to survive it?


    Poison Resistance Potions.


    Which no one had bought.


    Which no one had even thought about.


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    ---


    Raven''s Smirk: Watching the Silver Sinkhole


    "They really think they''ve prepared for the dungeon."


    Raven nearly laughed at the thought.


    These guilds had poured their silver into an endless pit, thinking they were making a smart investment.


    They had rushed to buy Health and Poison Potions.


    They had driven up the prices themselves in a desperate bidding war.


    They had emptied their entire budgets just to secure a potion supply.


    And in a few hours?


    They''d be face-to-face with a death trap they never saw coming.


    All of their silver¡ªwasted.


    All of their plans¡ªdoomed.


    And Raven was going to watch them drown.


    ---


    The First Signs of Panic


    A rogue logistics officer from Dark Solution growled, kicking a nearby crate. "We got scammed. Someone manipulated the entire market."


    A knight officer from another guild clenched his fists. "What do we do now? We have zero silver left in the guild treasury, and we need at least 60 more health potions!"


    A low-level officer turned to Alex, his voice cracking. "You''re handling Dark Solution''s supplies, right? What''s the plan?"


    Alex stood stiffly, his face pale as a ghost.


    Because Sophie¡ªDark Solution''s ruthless guild leader¡ªhad just entered the auction house.


    ---


    Sophie Arrives: The True Consequences


    Sophie, dressed in sleek black armor with crimson details, strode into the auction house like a queen inspecting her crumbling empire.


    Her gaze swept over the defeated logistics officers, unimpressed.


    Then her eyes locked onto Alex.


    Silence fell.


    The moment she spoke, her tone was icy cold.


    "Tell me, Alex," she said, voice slow, deliberate, and laced with venom.


    "Where. Are. My. Poison Resistance Potions?"


    Alex visibly flinched. His lips trembled as he realized¡ª


    He had no answer.


    Because he had never even thought to buy them.


    Because he had spent everything on overpriced Health and Poison Potions.


    Because he had completely failed his job.


    Sophie''s expression didn''t change, but the air around her grew heavy, suffocating.


    Alex tried to stammer out an excuse. "I¡ªI was focused on the health potion supply. I thought¡ª"


    "You thought?" Sophie''s voice dropped lower. Dangerous. Deadly. "Tell me, Alex. Did I ask you to think?"


    Alex''s face drained of color.


    The other logistics officers stepped back, silently grateful they weren''t in his position.


    Because when Sophie was angry, people suffered.


    ---


    Raven''s Final Thoughts: The Stage Is Set


    Raven didn''t need to hear the rest.


    Sophie was going to tear Alex apart for this blunder, but that was none of his concern.


    All he cared about was what came next.


    Because in just a few hours¡ª


    Guilds would enter Serpent Dungeon (Level 3).


    They would defeat the first boss.


    They would step into the toxic mist¡­ and start dying.


    And when panic took over and players realized their mistake, the next stage of Raven''s plan would begin.


    The Poison Resistance Potion market.


    Raven pushed off the pillar, stretching lazily.


    "I''ll give them a few hours to suffer."


    Then?


    He''d sell them the only way to survive.


    An Unexpected Find


    As Raven watched the guild logistics officers descend into chaos, his eyes casually drifted across the auction house listings.


    Most items were the usual junk¡ªlow-tier equipment, random crafting materials, overpriced potions, and common skill books.


    Nothing special.


    Until¡ª


    [Ancient Page (Unknown)] ¨C 1 Silver


    A tattered, yellowed parchment with no description, listed at a dirt-cheap price.


    Raven''s brow arched. An old page?


    He clicked on it, scanning the minimal details.


    Item Type: ???


    Rarity: ???


    Condition: Poor


    Seller: [Anonymous]


    "A mystery item for just 1 silver?"


    It reeked of being worthless. Some noob probably looted it off a random chest and, not knowing its value, dumped it into the auction for quick money.


    Or maybe it really was useless garbage.


    But Raven knew better.


    In games like Mortal Online, random "junk" items sometimes turned out to be pieces of rare collections, hidden lore, or even quest triggers.


    And for 1 silver?


    "Even if it''s trash, I won''t feel a loss."


    Without hesitation, he clicked ''Buy'' and confirmed the purchase.


    ---


    Receiving the Page


    Moments later, a small notification popped up.


    [You have successfully purchased: Ancient Page (Unknown)]


    Raven walked over to the auction retrieval counter, where a bored NPC clerk in dull robes handed him a rolled-up parchment.


    As soon as he touched it, an odd sensation crawled up his fingers¡ªa faint, tingling energy.


    "Huh?"


    He frowned, stepping aside to examine it in detail.


    Unrolling the parchment, he saw faded ink, written in a strange, archaic language. The edges were frayed, as if it had been torn from a much larger book.


    There was no system prompt, no quest activation.


    But Raven had a gut feeling.


    "This might be important."


    Whatever this Ancient Page was, it wasn''t just a piece of junk.


    Mockery in the Auction House


    As Raven collected the Ancient Page, a snide laugh came from behind him.


    "Hah! No way¡­ Did you actually buy that piece of junk?"


    Raven turned his head slightly, his expression neutral.


    A young warrior in chainmail armor, with a cheap iron sword strapped to his back, leaned against a nearby counter. He had the smug grin of someone who thought he knew better.


    "I was the one who put that garbage up for sale," the player sneered. "Some random trash drop from a low-level chest. No stats, no description, no resale value."


    The warrior shook his head, chuckling.


    "And you actually wasted 1 silver on it? Damn, man, you must really love collecting worthless crap."


    ---


    Raven''s Response: Indifference


    Raven didn''t react.


    He simply rolled the parchment back up, tucking it into his inventory without a word.


    To an outsider, it might''ve looked like he was ignoring the mockery.


    But in reality?


    Raven didn''t even consider this guy worth acknowledging.


    Because in Mortal Online, the difference between those who saw value and those who didn''t was massive.


    This guy?


    He was the type of player who would sell a priceless relic for pocket change¡­ and laugh while doing it.


    And Raven?


    He was the type who recognized hidden opportunities¡ªthe kind that turned "junk" into power.


    Still, the warrior wasn''t done talking.


    ---


    The Warrior''s Final Words


    "Ah, whatever," the player scoffed. "You''ll figure it out soon enough. When you realize that thing is useless, maybe you''ll learn a lesson about not wasting money."


    With that, he pushed off the counter, walking away with an air of superiority.


    Raven watched him go, then turned his attention back to the Ancient Page.


    He had a feeling.


    A strong one.


    "Let''s see who the real fool is."