《Strife of the Continents》 Chapter [1] — The Beginning of New Era [Welcome to the Continental Strife.] [Each of you chosen to participate will not only represent your homeland but, perhaps, your entire race.] [This competition is a path to power, treasure, and dominance. To the strong-willed, the lucky, and the relentless¡ªvictory awaits.] [Only those with both wits and strength will endure.] [May your strife be auspicious.] ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª [Your status is now available to view.] ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª A cold wind howled through the jagged cliffs, carrying with it the scent of pine and raw earth. The sky stretched infinitely above, a muted gray, as if the heavens themselves observed in silent judgment. Viktor stood on rocky ground, the uneven terrain pressing sharply against his boots. Towering peaks loomed in the distance, their craggy surfaces partially hidden by mist. Below, a vast sea of dark green forest stretched out, its depths unknowable. His breath came slow and measured, but his mind reeled. One moment, he had been hammering molten steel in the forge¡ªthe next, he was here. No transition, no warning. Just an abrupt shift, as if reality itself had twisted. Viktor glanced down at himself, still in his work clothes. The scent of metal and soot clung to him, a fleeting anchor in this strange place. A soft hum flickered at the edge of his vision. He turned toward it. Before him, a translucent screen floated in the air, its letters shifting into something he could understand. It was... unreal. ¡°Did I overwork myself?¡± Viktor muttered under his breath. He felt no fatigue, but maybe he¡¯d passed out in the forge. Was this some heat-induced delusion? Before he could dwell on the thought, a shadow passed overhead¡ªa massive one. An instinct deep within him roared to life. His muscles seized, and his breath locked in his chest. A pressure¡ªprimal and unrelenting¡ªpressed down on him like a weight. His gray eyes shot upward. A dragon. Its wings stretched across the sky, blocking out the light as it soared above the treetops. Its sheer presence, the deliberate power in its flight, sent a shiver down his spine. Viktor heart pounded. For the first time in his life, he felt truly insignificant. The weight of its presence crushed him¡ªnot just fear, but something deeper, more visceral. His instincts whispered of prey before predator, of ember before inferno. Then, as suddenly as it appeared, the dragon vanished beyond the cliffs, leaving only silence in its wake. Viktor stood frozen. His legs ached, not from movement, but from the effort of staying grounded in the face of such overwhelming presence. He stared at the empty sky, his thoughts unraveling like brittle iron. ¡°...Fuck,¡± he breathed, his voice almost drowned by the wind. Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. This wasn¡¯t a dream. It wasn¡¯t some heat-induced hallucination. Dragons were real. And if dragons were real, then this ¡®Continental Strife¡¯ would be nothing short of brutal. His fingers flexed at his sides, the roughness of his calloused palms grounding him once more. He didn¡¯t know where he was, or why, but one thing was certain¡ªhe wasn¡¯t just a blacksmith anymore. Shaking off the lingering weight of the dragon¡¯s presence, Viktor turned his attention back to the floating screen. It was time to learn what this ¡®Continental Strife¡¯ truly was. ¡­ Reading through the messages, Viktor learned three things. First, race and competition mattered here. Second, he had no idea where he stood in either. And third¡ªthe nature of the competition wasn¡¯t stated. The text spoke of survival, power, and status, but nothing was clear. Was it a war? A tournament? A hunt? A free-for-all? There were no explanations¡ªonly the expectation to struggle. Viktor eyes lingered on the words "represent your home, perhaps your entire race." What did that mean? He was human. That much was obvious. But was that a factor? Was everyone here human, or were there others? A flicker of unease settled in his chest, but now wasn¡¯t the time for endless questions. Answers would come later. Looking at the last screen, Viktor thought inwardly: ¡®Status¡¯ As the new screen unfolded before him, revealing information he¡¯d never seen displayed in this way. ¡­. [Status] ¡ª Name : Viktor Race : [Human ¡ª Lv. (N/A)] Innate : [ Unavailable (N/A) ] Innate Rank : [ N/A ] ¡­. [Attributes] ¡ª Health 120/120 Stamina 54/60 Mana 25/25 Strength: 11 Agility: 9 Constitution: 12 Spirit : 5 Undisturbed stats : 0 ¡­. Viktor''s mind raced, trying to process the stark simplicity of the display. Level N/A? Innate unavailable? He blinked. What the hell does that even mean? His gaze lingered on the unfamiliar stats, confusion deepening. What was this supposed to tell him about himself? The numbers, the terms¡ªit felt like reading an incomplete blueprint of his own existence. He mulled it over. Then, as if on cue, a new prompt flickered into view. [Level]: A measure of a user''s race and existence, representing their growth in complexity and power. With each level-up, stats will automatically increase based on the user''s race, and additional undistributed stat points will be awarded. Viktor''s raised an eyebrow. ¡°Oh?¡± He focused on the words, wondering if more details would appear. And so, he tried again. [Innate]: Upon integration with the system, all individuals gain a distinct, progressive ability. This power manifests at level 1 and grows alongside the user. [Innate Rank]: A measure of an innate ability¡¯s strength and potential. It advances at certain level intervals¡ª(10, 20, 30, etc.), unlocking greater proficiency and new applications. [Throughout all the Continental Stages, All innate skills are categorized into nine ranks: G, F, E, D, C, B, A, S, EX.] Viktor''s exhaled slowly, absorbing the information. The structure was simple yet absolute¡ªpower was earned in stages, dictated by the system. And right now, his level was zero. So, I need to level up to unlock my Innate Ability? As if in response, new text materialized. [Innate Skill] : an ability linked to the user Innate Ability, unlocked after Each ten-level milestone, categorized into nine ranks: [G, F, E, D, C, B, A, S, EX]. [Strength] : A measure of muscle power and raw physical force. [Agility] : Governs speed, reflexes, movement fluidity, and reaction time. [Constitution] : Determines stamina, endurance, bone density, and natural durability. [Spirit] : Affects five senses, thought processing speed, mana pool, and critical thinking ability. [Health = Constitution x10, Stamina = Constitution x5, Mana = Spirit x 5] After reading through the descriptions, Viktor''s gained a clearer understanding of the system and his Status. However, one crucial question remained unanswered. How do I level up? No matter how much he focused on the words, no new information surfaced¡ªonly what he had already seen. "Hm¡­ maybe¡ª" Before he could finish his thought, a new prompt materialized. And this time, a voice accompanied it. ¡­ [Dear Participants, welcome] [You have been summoned without warning, thrown into a new place¡ªa new world] [This is your chance¡ªto carve your fate, to seize strength, to rise] [The ''Continental Strife'' is a universal event, held once every era. Here, heroes are forged, and the victor takes all] [A new age has begun. The era of Strife is upon us] [We wish you all¡ªgood luck] ¡­ [The "First Step" have been listed] ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 2 - First Step, First Kill. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] Status ¡ª A comprehensive view of a character''s attributes, including health, race, skills, and level. The system tracks and updates the character¡¯s progress. Chapter [2] — First Step, First Kill [The "First Step" have been listed] After the voice faded, a new screen appeared, as before Viktor''s could try to focus on it, a new section appeared. ¡­ [First Step] (Commission) - Description : Your Strife has just begun. The first step is to understand yourself and your status, but is that truly enough? Not everything is as it seems, for the world around you holds many unknowns that may soon reveal themselves. Objective : Discover the way to level up and reach level 1. Rewards: 10 Achievement Points, Unlock [Innate], [??]. ¡­ Viktor''s brow furrowed as he read through the objective. It seemed straightforward¡ªhe had to figure out how to level up. But something gnawed at him, a feeling that went deeper than the words. What exactly did ¡°getting to know yourself¡± mean in this context? And why did it sound like he was missing something crucial, something that hadn¡¯t yet revealed itself? Awoooo! A low, drawn-out howl echoed through the trees. Viktor''s stiffened. The howl cut through the silence, carried by the wind. It was close. Too close. His lips curled into a wry smile. "Right. Of course. Wolves." Instinct kicked in. His eyes swept the treeline, his stance subtly shifting as if the ground beneath him had suddenly turned hostile. His fingers twitched toward his belt, but there was no familiar weight of a hammer or dagger. Instead, his hand brushed against something small¡ªa narrow chisel tucked into his pocket. A tool, not a weapon. But right now, it was the only thing standing between him and whatever was watching from the dark. The underbrush rustled. Three shapes emerged from the gloom, their eyes glinting in the fading light. Viktor''s breath slowed. Viktor''s took an instinctive step back. They were huge¡ªlarger than any wolf he had ever seen, their dark coats blending into the night. Their glowing yellow eyes fixed on him with an eerie intelligence. Three against one. I¡¯m already Outnumbered. The wolves circled him, their growls deep and guttural, the sound vibrating through the air. Two of them¡ªthe larger ones¡ªdidn''t immediately attack. Instead, they flanked him, pacing with measured steps, cutting off any escape route. They weren¡¯t reckless. They weren¡¯t lunging blindly. They were corralling him Viktor''s brows knit together. The third wolf, smaller than the others, stood between them. Its ears pricked forward, muscles tensed. It was young, but its eyes burned with intent. It shifted its weight, pressing into its haunches. Viktor''s pulse quickened. "It¡¯s going to lunge." Viktor''s mind reeled, instincts screaming at him to move, but something made him hesitate. The two larger wolves stood firm, their focus entirely on the smaller one. Not him. Viktor''s exhaled sharply. His fingers twitched, brushing against the narrow chisel in his pocket. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was something. The young wolf¡¯s lips curled back, exposing its teeth. Then¡ª It lunged. If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it. The wolf lunged with a speed that sent a shock through Viktor''s core, its jaws snapping toward his leg. "Shit¡ª" Viktor''s twisted¡ªteeth snapped shut where his leg had been a heartbeat ago. The force of the strike sent dust flying, claws gouging the earth where he had just been. His heart pounded. That was fast. Too fast. The other two wolves circled him, their eyes cold. They knew he was vulnerable. They could sense it. Viktor''s shifted his stance, trying to predict its next move. Again, the wolf lunged. This time, he managed to sidestep more cleanly, but his balance wavered against the uneven ground. The wolf landed and immediately wheeled around, snapping at him again. Viktor''s barely pulled back in time. His breathing quickened. His mind raced. This thing was relentless. It wasn¡¯t giving him a moment to react. And yet¡ª Something felt off. The way it attacked. The way it moved. The way¡ª Viktor''s eyes flickered toward the two larger wolves. The other two wolves¡ªthe larger ones¡ªdidn''t advance. They didn¡¯t snarl or bare their teeth. They simply positioned themselves at his flanks, their piercing gazes unreadable. Still. Silent. Observing. Don''t tell me¡­ Realization settled in his gut like cold iron. They¡¯re not attacking. They were letting the smaller one fight. It clicked. They were teaching their pup how to hunt. The next attack came¡ªa wild leap forward, jaws aimed high. Viktor''s mind snapped into focus. This wolf was strong¡ªbut inexperienced. It lunged without thinking. It committed too much to each attack. And that gave him an opening. Viktor''s braced himself. The wolf lunged again. He feinted left. The wolf adjusted. Then¡ªViktor''s pivoted sharply to the right. The young wolf lunged again¡ªreckless, aggressive, overcommitting. Viktor''s twisted his body just enough to let it miss, and in that split second¡ª Viktor''s struck. Crack¡ª! The chisel punched through fur and flesh, sinking to the hilt. A wet, ragged yelp tore through the night. The wolf stumbled, legs faltering, crimson soaking its dark coat. Viktor''s breath hitched. His grip on the chisel tightened. For a moment, his stomach twisted. It was young. Learning. But the low growls of the two larger wolves snapped him back to reality. The pup still bared its fangs. It still tried to stand. It would kill him if he hesitated. Viktor''s yanked the chisel free, his grip unsteady. The warmth of blood slicked his fingers, the scent sharp and metallic in the air. He took a half step back, breath hitching¡ª Then¡ª Awoooo!¡ªAwoooo! The parents. A deep, guttural growl rattled the air, sharp enough to make Viktor''s chest tighten. They hesitated¡ªonly for a second. But that second was all he needed. Viktor''s turned and ran. Rocks shifted beneath his feet, but he didn¡¯t stop. He pushed forward, weaving through the uneven terrain, lungs burning. The wolves didn¡¯t immediately chase. Their growls followed him, but their footsteps did not. Viktor''s didn¡¯t dare look back. Not until he was sure he had escaped. Not until he was sure he had survived. Viktor''s legs burned as he sprinted through the wilderness, adrenaline coursing through him. His breath came in ragged gasps, his chest tight. The sound of the wolves¡¯ growls still echoed, but the terrain thickened, and the chase seemed to slow. He didn¡¯t dare glance back. The wolves were still out there, but how far behind? He couldn¡¯t tell. All he could do was run, putting as much distance between himself and them as possible. Viktor''s stumbled into a small ravine, jagged rocks and thick underbrush offering a brief reprieve. His breath came in shallow gasps, the panic in his chest dulling as the wilderness hummed around him. Pressing against the cool stone, he slid into the shadows, trying to steady his breath. His heart still hammered, his thoughts swirling, but he didn¡¯t dare relax. Not yet. The ravine hid him, thick with vines and jagged rock. He listened. The wolves¡¯ growls had faded, but they might still be out there. Lurking. Viktor''s wiped his face with his sleeve, dirt and sweat mixing. The metallic taste of blood lingered in his mouth, the sharp scent filling the air. His pulse was still erratic, but the immediate danger seemed to have passed. He remained motionless, listening intently. The faint rustling of underbrush kept him on edge. They could still be circling. He didn¡¯t dare move yet. Pressing harder against the stone, Viktor''s tried to calm his breath. The quiet of the ravine surrounded him¡ªdistant rustling, the hum of the wilderness¡ªbut nothing else. No growls. No footsteps. He was alone¡ªfor now. Slowly exhaling, he scanned his surroundings once more. Everything was still. The wolves were gone. He had made it. Then, just as his heartbeat began to slow, a flood of prompts filled his vision. ¡­ [You have successfully defeated the Young Dire Wolf (Lv.3)] [Your race level rises by 1] [Racial Level Up Bonus: +1 Spirit, +1 Constitution] [Level Up Bonus: 2+ Undistributed Stats Obtained] [You have reached Level 1 and your Innate Ability [Branded By Fire and Steel] (1st) Stage has been unlocked] [Innate Skill Effects: 1+ Constitution, 1+ Strength] [Commission "First Step" Objective has been completed!] [Commission "First Step" Hidden Objective completed!] ¡­ [Your Status has been updated] ¡­ Viktor''s felt a wave of unexpected strength surge through him, washing away the exhaustion. It was as if the weight of his tiredness had vanished, replaced by a power he couldn¡¯t quite comprehend. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 3 - ?? ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] Dire Wolf ¡ª A large and powerful breed of wolf, known for its formidable strength rather than agility or senses. Dire Wolves are typically much larger than ordinary wolves and are fierce hunters that rely on their strength in combat. They often hunt in packs, and their young are taught the art of hunting by older wolves. The Young Dire Wolf is a subspecies of the Mountain Dire Wolves, still learning its full potential but already showing significant power. Chapter [3] — Tense Respite Viktor''s exhaustion vanished as a surge of strength coursed through his body. He felt lighter, stronger, and¡­ different. A flood of prompts filled his vision, and as he instinctively opened his updated status screen, he saw the changes¡ªhis level had increased, his stats had improved, and his innate ability had finally awakened. ¡­. [Status] : ¡ª Name : Viktor Race : [Human ¡ª Lv.1] Innate : [ Branded By Fire and Steel ] Innate Rank : [ 1st Stage ] ¡­... [Attribute(s)] : ¡ª Health 120 ¡ú 140 + Stamina 18/60 ¡ú 28/70 + Mana 25 ¡ú 30 + Strength: 11 ¡ú 12 + Agility: 9 Constitution: 12 ¡ú 14 + Spirit : 5 ¡ú 6 + Undisturbed stats : 0 ¡ú 2+ ¡­. Innate Skill(s) : ¡ª [Man of Tempered Steel (A)]. ¡­. Viktor blinked, dumbfounded. The changes were more significant than he had expected. Critically wounding the young wolf was one thing, but actually defeating it and leveling up? That was another matter entirely. His Strength had increased by 1. His Spirit had increased by 1. And his Constitution had surged by 2 points. He pulled open the previous notifications, eager to understand what had just occurred. ¡­. [You have successfully defeated the Young Dire Wolf (Lv.3)] [Your race level rises by 1] [Racial Level Up Bonus: +1 Spirit, +1 Constitution] [Level Up Bonus: 2+ Undistributed Stats Obtained] [You have reached Level 1 and your Innate ability [1st] Stage has been unlocked] [Innate [Branded By Fire and Steel] has been unlocked] [Innate Skill Effects: 1+ Constitution, 1+ Strength] ¡­. Viktor carefully reread the notifications. At first, he had assumed that leveling up simply increased his stats. But now, the system was making something clear¡ªstats weren¡¯t distributed in just one way. There were three separate sources of stat gains: Racial Stats ¨C Automatically assigned based on race. This time, his race-level bonus had granted +1 Spirit and +1 Constitution. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Undistributed Stats ¨C Freely allocated points he could assign however he wished. Innate Skill Effects ¨C A completely new factor, something he hadn¡¯t learned about before. Viktor frowned. Innate Skill Effects¡­? He clearly remembered the system''s level-up description: each level granted Racial Stats and Undistributed Stats¡ªbut nothing had mentioned Innate Skills affecting stat gains. Viktor exhaled, rubbing his temples. Still, now wasn¡¯t the time to overanalyze things. He had two large wolves out there, likely furious after he had just killed their pup. Pushing aside his unease, Viktor focused on the most important part¡ªhis newly awakened Innate Ability. Branded By Fire and Steel¡­ Viktor smirked. Sounds cool. A second later, he coughed, clearing his throat. Not the time to get carried away. With a sharp inhale, he concentrated, willing the system to display more details. ¡­. Innate Ability: [ Branded By Fire and Steel ] (1st Stage) ¡ª You possess an incredible talent towards metalworking, where due to your upbringings and blood, You are blessed by the flames of steel, granting you an high affinity for metal, heat, and craftsmanship. Your proficiency in blacksmithing and related craft skills is significantly enhanced, making it easier to master techniques and perform exceptionally well in any metalworking task. Any action related to blacksmithing or crafting will gain an enhanced bonus. Current Innate Skill(s): ¡ª [Man of Tempered Steel(A)] ¡­. Viktor¡¯s brows furrowed. Metalworking? He had expected something combat-oriented¡ªsomething that would help him survive. Instead, his Innate Ability seemed centered around craftsmanship. ...What the hell am I supposed to do with this? Rubbing his temples, he exhaled deeply. For a moment, he was back in his forge¡ªback home. If this was his old life, this ability would have been a gift. A chance to finally surpass his grandfather, the man who had raised him and taught him everything he knew about metalworking skills. "¡­.." A flicker of emotion passed through him. As his thoughts wandered, Viktor caught himself¡ªthis was not the time for distractions. His life was on the line, literally. Shaking off the memories, he refocused on the system. And that¡¯s when he noticed it. Hold on¡ªa skill? His Innate Skill. [Man of Tempered Steel]. ¡­. Innate Skill: [Man of Tempered Steel] (A) ¨C Your body and will, like the finest metal, has been tempered through years of work with the forge. Every callous on your hands, every burn and scar, has been a testament to your dedication. You are resistant to common burns, and stamina drains less while blacksmithing or crafting. Passive Effect [1] ¡ª Bonus: With each level-up, your strength and constitution will gain bonus stats. Passive Effect [2] ¡ª In the face of adversity, your Will becomes unyielding as iron. ¡­. "That¡¯s why¡­," Viktor muttered in realization, as he recalled how his Constitution and Strength had both increased by 1 with his level-up, in addition to his racial stat bonuses. Yet¡­ Viktor paused, confusion clouding his thoughts. Frustration slowly began to bubble within him as he mulled over the vague effects of his skill. Resistant to common burns? Stamina drains less? The first passive effect was useful, no doubt. Viktor recognized that it would significantly benefit him in the long term, especially when it came to increasing his stats, but¡­ it didn¡¯t seem as immediately useful in his current situation. And the second effect? It was¡ªutterly useless. Aren¡¯t I in freakin¡¯ adversity right now?! Viktor shouted inwardly, not wanting to alert the wolves, if they were nearby. A Rank? Isn¡¯t that pretty high for a skill rank? The second passive effect¡ªhis unyielding will¡ªfelt like a cruel joke. Where was his will to survive when his body had no way of defending itself? Viktor ran a hand through his hair in frustration. This doesn¡¯t help me survive. The sudden tension surged in his chest, the weight of his situation sinking deeper. His exhaustion had vanished, sure, but that wasn¡¯t enough. Not in the face of wolves, not with only a chisel for a weapon. But then, something clicked. The Commission. He closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. It wasn¡¯t just his level-up. The First Step Commission had promised rewards¡ªreal, tangible rewards for completing the task. His hand clenched into a fist. He didn¡¯t know exactly what those rewards would be, but it had to be something useful. A weapon, maybe? Some kind of tool to help him survive? The thought steadied him, like a cool breeze cutting through the fog of his panic. He still can survive. Viktor took another deep breath, refocused, and with a final glance at his updated status screen, he narrowed his eyes, willing the system to show his previous notifications. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 4 - A Way Out ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] System Ranks : In the Continental Strife, everything is categorized into Nine ranks: G, F, E, D, C, B, A, S, EX. These ranks apply to skills, items, equipment, and more. G-F represent low to common tiers, E, D, C are considered average to above-average, and B, A are high-tier, reflecting exceptional power. However, S and EX ranks stand at the pinnacle. S is reserved for rare and legendary items or abilities, while EX is the highest possible rank, signifying items, skills, or equipment of almost godlike rarity and power, often considered mythical or beyond comprehension. ¡­. Chapter [4] — A Way Out Viktor took another deep breath, refocused, and with a final glance at his updated status screen, he narrowed his eyes, willing the system to show his previous notifications. ¡­¡­ [Commission "First Step" Objective has been completed] [Commission "First Step" Hidden Objective completed!] ¡­¡­ He blinked, pausing as he processed the words on the screen. Hidden Objective¡­ Yes, a hidden requirement. Viktor clearly remembered seeing it when the notification appeared after the wolf pup died. But since it was hidden, he hadn¡¯t known exactly how to complete it. He had lucked out. Critically wounding the wolf pup, managing to escape the wrath of the parents, and now completing a hidden objective. As if it wasn¡¯t just the pup attacking alone. Hell, even one of the larger wolves attacking¡­ Viktor shuddered at the thought. I guess my luck ran out, he thought, the relief of survival quickly replaced with a cold realization. The situation could have turned out far worse. Much worse. He moved over and quickly opened the full details of the commission, eager to see exactly what had been accomplished. ¡­¡­ [First Step] (Commission) - Description : Your Strife has just begun. The first step is to understand yourself and your status, but is that truly enough? Not everything is as it seems, for the world around you holds many unknowns that may soon reveal themselves. Objective : Discover the way to level up and reach level 1. Rewards: 10 Achievement Points, Unlock [Innate], [Random Skill (G ~ E)]. Hidden Objective : Be one of the first 100 participants to reach level 1 and unlock their innate aspect. Rewards: [Basic Critical (F ~ D)] [Claim Rewards: ?] ¡­¡­ The commission had seemed straightforward at first¡ªreach level 1, unlock your innate ability. But somehow, by completing that first task just in time, he had inadvertently met the hidden requirement as well. There was no way he could have planned for that. He hadn¡¯t known that he was racing against 99 other participants, and yet, by some stroke of luck, he had found himself in the right place at the right time. Viktor thought it made sense, given the absurdity of his situation. Less than five minutes since he was thrown into this place, and already he was fighting for his life. Looking at the rewards, Viktor focused on the words, hoping for some kind of explanation. [Achievement Points]: Currency earned through various achievements, such as completing commissions, defeating bosses, exploring, discovering treasures, and more. These points can be exchanged with the Achievement Vendor for rewards. Reading through the system explanation, Viktor skipped over the achievement part. No matter how much he focused on the Vendor section, no details came. Honestly, the longer he stayed hidden in this ravine, the worse he felt about his chances. And he didn''t want to waste more time on figuring mysteries. [Random Skill (G ~ E)]: Grants a random Acquired Skill (G to E rank), offering a variety of abilities, from combat to utility. A random skill. Great. Viktor couldn¡¯t help but feel a bit of nervousness as he thought about it. It was a gamble¡ªeither good or bad. And given the way things had been going, he was certain his luck was running out. However¡­ The last reward was completely different. This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere. ¡°Haaah¡­ finally, finally something useful,¡± Viktor breathed, but even as he exhaled in relief, a sense of caution lingered. His survival up until now had been nothing more than luck, and this new reward might be his hope. [Basic Critical (F ~ D)]: A low-rank reward designed to provide the user with a vital tool or skill that addresses their immediate needs. This could be an item or skill that directly assists with overcoming current challenges, enhancing their ability to survive or progress in the immediate situation. Basically, a tailored made rewards to survive against the wolves chase, or maybe fight against them. Not wasting any more time, Viktor choose to immediately accept all the rewards. ....... [Claim Rewards: ?] ''Yes'' ....... [You have received 10+ Achievement Points] [You have received the Acquired Skill [Boost (F)] [You have received the [Blood Fang Totem (E)] Accessory.] ....... [Your Status has been updated] ....... Viktor felt a surge of information flood his mind, each detail about his new skill, its effects, and its limitations sinking into his consciousness. The sensation was almost otherworldly, like a spark of magic igniting in his mind. On the other hand. A small necklace materialized in his hand, the leather cord warm against his skin. The pendant, a wolf¡¯s fang, was etched with red symbols that seemed to pulse faintly, as if alive. The moment his fingers closed around it, the flood of knowledge intensified, overwhelming him for a brief moment. ¡­¡­ [Blood Fang Totem] RANK (E) : A small necklace with a pendant made from the fang of a large wolf. The fang is engraved with red symbols, akin to blood, and the necklace is strung on a strong leather cord. The totem offers protection from wolves and other dangers of the wild. Infused Skill (E) : Wolf Repulsion ¨C When worn, the totem produces a unique scent that only wolves can detect. This scent repels wolves, causing them to feel extreme disgust and discomfort. Lasts for 30 minutes. (Cooldown: 24/h) *Note: Effect is nullified if the wolf has line of sight to the wearer* ¡­¡­ THUD! Viktor slammed against the stone walls of the ravine, his breath ragged, and for a moment, he was on the verge of tears. Not from fear or pain, but from relief. The skill he''d gained wasn¡¯t a perfect solution¡ªit wasn¡¯t the best, nor the worst¡ªbut it didn¡¯t offer the immediate help he needed. But the necklace¡­ that was different. It wasn¡¯t just a reward; it was a lifeline. As the name suggested, it was critical, and for the first time since he''d been thrown into this nightmare, Viktor felt a his nerves calm. With his heart pounding, Viktor immediately shoved the necklace around his neck. He focused, activating the skill. Wolf Repulsion. The red symbols akin to blood glowed faintly, and a strange smell began to waft from the pendant. It didn¡¯t repulse Viktor¡ªrather, it was an earthy, sharp scent that felt almost like an ancient soil. He could feel the power settle into his chest, a strange warmth spreading from the totem. The faint pulse of the red markings, like the blood of a beast, was both reassuring and unnerving at the same time. No time to waste. ¡°Alright,¡± he muttered under his breath. ¡°I¡¯ve got thirty minutes. I need to figure out where I¡¯m going next.¡± His eyes darted across the ravine, taking in the jagged cliffs, the steep drops, and the shadows that stretched deeper into the forest. The howls in the distance gnawed at him, the wolves getting closer. The pressure in the air thickened. But standing here wasn¡¯t going to save him. If he stayed too long, he¡¯d be sitting duck. Viktor¡¯s gaze shifted toward the dense forest beyond the ravine. The shadows were thick, but there was cover¡ªthick trees, underbrush, and a higher vantage point to maybe get a better look at what was around him. His gut told him that was the way out. He¡¯d have a better shot in the forest, and maybe, just maybe, he could find some weaker creatures to level up more. The totem¡¯s faint glow still pulsed against his chest, reminding him of the precious minutes ticking away. The Forest. A small, relieved smile tugged at Viktor''s lips, the first in what felt like forever. He took a deep breath and activated his newly acquired skill. Boost His legs surged forward as his speed and agility surged. The energy hummed through him, making his every movement feel lighter, faster. The world around him blurred as he sprinted toward the unknown, the forest a looming promise of either salvation or danger. The faint howl of wolves echoed in the distance, growing louder. But Viktor, for the first time since being thrown into this nightmare, felt his heart race not with dread¡ªbut with excitement. And with that, Viktor pushed forward, into the depths of the wilderness, his heart pounding, his future uncertain. ¡­¡­ Acquired Skill : [Boost] RANK (F) ¨C Increase agility by 5 points and reflexes by 3% for 5 Mana per minute, enhancing movement and reaction speed. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 5 - Shadows Beneath the Leaves ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] Skills ¨C Abilities that enhance the user''s attributes, performance, or potential. Skills are categorized into different types, such as Innate, Acquired, and Infused, but may also exist outside these classifications. [2] Innate Skills ¨C Abilities tied to the user''s Innate Ability, unlocked at every ten-level milestone. They are categorized into nine ranks, with their rank determined upon unlocking. Unlike Acquired Skills, they cannot be upgraded easily. [3] Acquired Skills ¨C Skills that are earned through experience, training, or rewards from the system. These skills offer versatility and adaptability, allowing users to improve through effort or specific actions. They can be upgraded based on progress or certain requirements. [4] Infused Skills ¨C Abilities granted by external sources such as items, equipment, or artifacts. These skills are activated or enhanced by the item they are tied to, and their effectiveness is often dependent on the conditions of the item or environment. Chapter [5] — Shadows Beneath the Leaves Viktor leaned against a tree, his breath shallow. His hands trembled¡ªnot from fear, not from excitement, but from sheer exhaustion. He had survived¡­ for now. The forest around him was dense, the towering trees twisting together to form a near-impenetrable canopy. Shadows stretched across the uneven ground, shifting with the faint rustle of wind through the branches. Every direction looked the same¡ªdark, silent, unknown. He scanned his surroundings, eyes sharp, ears straining for anything out of place. The wolves wouldn¡¯t be able to track him easily now, at least he was safe for a while. If anything, the silence made him uneasy. Then, a sound. Chhk¡­ chhk¡­ A rustling. Low, uneven, like something shifting through the underbrush. Viktor¡¯s fingers tightened around the narrow chisel in his grip. It wasn¡¯t much of a weapon, but it was all he had. Then¡ª "Ghhk-ghhk¡­ kehh-kehh-kehh¡­" Low and ragged, like something with a throat too dry to properly breathe, yet still forcing out amusement. The sound twisted, warped, breaking into uneven chuckles. "Ghhk-ghhk¡­ kehh-kehh-kehh¡­ keh-kehh¡­ keh!" Viktor¡¯s brow furrowed. The laughter was distant, but it wasn¡¯t just one voice. There were several. His pulse quickened, but then another realization struck him¡ªhis exhaustion was worse than he thought. A quick glance at his status screen confirmed it. [Mana: 4/30] His breath hitched. The Totem¡¯s effect had less than eight minutes left before it deactivated, and his mana reserves were dangerously low. Too low. Boost had helped him escape¡ªenhancing his speed, sharpening his reflexes¡ªbut every activation pulled at something deep within him, like threads unraveling from his core. He had felt it drawing from his chest, surging into his legs and veins, making his movements sharper, lighter. But when his mana pool had dropped to 3/30, the strain hit him like a hammer. A dull, creeping ache throbbed at the base of his skull, his vision momentarily blurring. His legs had faltered, his balance shifting precariously. It had been a warning. So he had forced himself to stop after one final use. One more push, one more minute sprint before his body had demanded relief. And now? He had barely caught his breath, but something else is already near. The laughter continued¡ªerratic, unnatural. Viktor furrowed his brows and closed his eyes, drawing in a slow, measured breath to steady himself. From the moment he was thrown into this place, he had made countless mistakes. But could anyone blame him? One moment, he was living his life¡ªthe next, he was forced into a brutal game of survival, where magic, beasts, and fantasy-like bullshit were all too real. He had been too focused on his status screen, too lost in overanalyzing things like a fool. And because of that, he let himself get surrounded. He had hesitated when fighting the wolf pup¡ªjust for a moment¡ªbut hesitation could get him killed. Worse, he had turned his back and run from the larger wolves. What if they had been faster? He would have been nothing more than an easy target. But instead of drowning in regret and frustration, he would learn from it. Every mistake, every misstep¡ªit would be carved into his memory, never to be repeated. He would adapt. He would survive. "Ghhk-ghhk¡­ kehh-kehh-Keh!" Viktor opened his gray, which burning with cold resolve, as the distant sound of laughter remained where it is. He opened his stats and used the 2 undistributed points and put it all into his Spirit. ¡­¡­ [You have Distributed 2 stats to Spirit] ¡­¡­ [Status] : ¡ª Name : Viktor Race : [Human ¡ª Lv.1] Innate : [ Branded By Fire and Steel ] Innate Rank : [ 1st Stage ] ¡­¡­ [Achievements] : ¡ª If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Currency (AP) : 10 ¡­¡­ [Attribute(s)] : ¡ª Health 140/140 Stamina 22/140 Mana 16/40 ¡ú 10 + Strength: 12 Agility: 9 Constitution: 14 Spirit : 6 ¡ú 8 + Undistributed stats : 2 ¡ú 0 ¡­¡­ Innate Skill(s) : ¡ª [Man of Tempered Steel (A)] Acquired Skill(s) : ¡ª [Boost (F)] Infused Skill(s) : ¡ª [Wolf Repulsion (E)] ¡­¡­ Viktor felt A sharp, sudden pulse ran through him as his Spirit increased. His breath steadied, the weight in his limbs less suffocating, but exhaustion still gnawed at the edges of his awareness. It wasn¡¯t a cure¡ªjust a thin layer of clarity over a deep well of fatigue. Still, it was enough. His Mana increased as well. He stood up with a minor difficulty and looked at the direction where the sickening laughter came from. "Guess I don¡¯t have a choice," he muttered, exhaling slowly. "Let¡¯s see what kind of nightmare this is." ¡­¡­ Elsewhere, just beyond Viktor¡¯s sight. Deep in the underbrush, where twisted roots coiled like grasping fingers, a group of four small green creatures huddled in a loose circle. Goblins. Their jagged teeth gleamed as they cackled, shoving and jostling one another in excitement. Their yellowed eyes glowed in the dim light, their crooked grins widening as the tiny creature in their grasp struggled. Hoonk! In the center of their little game, a piglet squealed. Its tiny hooves scraped against the dirt, but each time it tried to bolt, a gnarled hand snatched at its leg, with rough knifes, dragging it back into the cruel game. "Keh-kehh-kehh¡­" The goblins laughed and played their game, unaware that just beyond the bushes, surrounded by towering trees, a pair of cold, gray eyes watched them intently. The figure, lean and hardened, crouched at the edge of the clearing. His skin, rough and pale. Short, black hair fell messily across his brow, sticking damp against his forehead from exhaustion. A small necklace hung around his neck, a pendant made from the fang of a large wolf. The fang was engraved with red symbols, resembling blood, and the necklace was strung on a strong leather cord. He was dressed in simple, worn-out clothing¡ªdark, practical tunics and pants, made for ease of movement rather than comfort, and sturdy boots that gave him a solid grip on the uneven ground beneath him. His clothing, frayed at the edges, bore the signs of long days spent in the wilderness. His body, though fatigued, held itself like a coiled spring, every muscle taut and ready. His hands, scarred from the forge, gripped a narrow chisel¡ªa poor weapon, but one he had used well enough in the past. The blade glinted faintly in the dusked sky. The goblins, oblivious to his presence, continued their cruel play, unaware that a pair of gray eyes¡ªfocused¡ªscanned the scene, taking in every detail. The figure¡¯s eyes narrowed, his lips tightening into a thin line. He inhaled slowly, his breath steadying, then exhaled with a soft, controlled hiss. He rose from his crouch, careful to make no sound. With a quick and quiet motion, he reached down and snatched a small stone from the ground, holding it in his hand as he measured the distance, then tossed it into the dense brush behind them. The sound was soft, but enough to alert the goblins, heads snapping toward the noise. The figure moved in an instant, closing the distance between himself and the nearest goblin. His narrow chisel flashed in the dim light, cutting across the goblin¡¯s side. "Kuaagh!!" The goblin howled, a deep gash opening along its ribs. It staggered back, blood pouring from the wound, falling to the ground disabled. Before the others could react, the figure grabbed a swiftly crude knife from the fallen goblin and drove it into the second goblin¡¯s eye, the knife sink into the soft tissue of its brain. his stomach turning as it sank deep into it. The goblin collapsed without a sound. The trembling hand tightened around the knife, the revulsion lingering, but it was pushed aside, focus shifting to the next threat. The remaining two goblins hissed, knives raised. The figure took the second knife in his left hand, the chisel in his right. Clang! The third goblin lunged. The figure blocked with his chisel, the knives clashing in a sharp, ringing noise. He swiftly slashed at the goblin¡¯s face, creating a shallow gash that made it screech in agony. "Ku-gaagh!!" The last goblin screamed in fury, its attack faster than expected. The figure barely managed to parry the blow with his chisel, the goblin¡¯s crude knife cracking under the force. Its movements were faster than the figure had anticipated. The human figure barely managed to block its attack with the chisel, the force of the strikes causing the crude goblin knife to crack under the pressure. For a moment, the figure¡¯s breath caught, the goblin¡¯s speed testing his limits. But then, a strange wind stirred. In that moment, his speed increased, The goblin¡¯s pace was matched. The goblin¡¯s knife cracked against the figure''s steel chisel, producing a high-pitched squeal as it broke. Stunned, the goblin stood froze for a moment, its weapon useless. Before the creature could comprehend its misfortune, the figure drove the crude knife through its skull, killing it instantly. The goblin¡¯s body collapsed with a thud, its lifeless eyes staring at the clearing. Slash! The third goblin, still reeling from the wound to its face, attacked from behind. It slashed across the figure¡¯s back, sending a flare of pain through his body. But the figure¡¯s speed surged once more, his body moving on instinct. The goblin¡¯s ambush failed. Within seconds, it was dead, felled by a swift strike to its skull. The last goblin crumpled, its lifeless body hitting the ground with a dull thud. Silence fell over the muddy clearing, interrupted only by the frantic squeals of the piglet and the muffled groans of the first goblin, still struggling on the ground. The figure¡¯s breath came in ragged gasps, each inhale a struggle. His body trembled with exhaustion as he collapsed to his knees, his weapon-clad hands shaking from the effort. The figure remained on his knees for a moment, eyes unfocused, the weight of the fight crashing down on him. His chest heaved with each breath, the ache in his limbs barely registering as he fought to steady himself. The piglet¡¯s cries rang in his ears as the figure slowly looked up, his gaze scanning the bloody clearing. The tension in his shoulders eased, but the fight was far from over. So he moved to bring it to an end. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 6 - Evander Langley ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] Goblin ¡ª Small, fast, and weak creatures that rely on their numbers to survive. Goblins reproduce quickly, making them a constant nuisance in many regions. They aren¡¯t strong alone, but when in groups, they become dangerous, swarming enemies with their agile movements. Their wiry bodies make them hard to hit, and they prefer to attack in packs rather than fight one-on-one. [2] Wild Boar Piglet ¡ª A small but sturdy young boar with bristled brown and black fur, born with lighter stripes that fade over time. Though not as mobile as deer or hares, they possess strong legs, thick hides, and small but developing tusks. They stay close to their pack for protection, foraging for roots, acorns, and insects. While usually preyed upon by larger predators like wolves, their toughness and defensive nature make them a challenging hunt. If cornered, they can put up a fight, making them a valuable target for honing tracking and combat skills. Chapter [6] — Evander Langley My name is Evander Langley, born from the finest bloodlines of House Langley. Wealth, power, influence¡ªthey were never things I had to fight for. They were simply... there. From the moment I was born, the world knew who I was. I didn''t have to earn respect; it was given to me, and I made sure to carry it like a crown. I was raised in the lap of luxury, surrounded by everything that the Langley name promised. The best schools, the finest tutors, the most exclusive events¡­ I had everything. Until one day¡­ "Sorry, Evan¡­ but I already have someone I¡¯m seeing." I remember the way she said it¡ªsoft, almost apologetic, as if she actually expected me to accept it. As if she truly believed that I would be the one left behind. For the first time in my life, something was being denied to me. I laughed. Not out loud, of course. On the surface, I smiled, nodded, played the part of the gracious, understanding heir. But inside, something¡­ twisted. I had never lost before. Never been second to anyone. And yet, she looked at me¡ªme¡ªand dismissed me like I was just another man. That was the moment I realized something important: I didn¡¯t have everything. And if I didn¡¯t have everything, then I needed to learn how to take it. That night, I sat alone in my family¡¯s estate, staring out at the city below. I wasn¡¯t angry. No, anger was for lesser men¡ªmen who lashed out because they had no other means of control. I was better than that. I did something much more productive. I found out who he was. The man she had chosen over me. She had chosen someone else, but choice was an illusion. People thought they made decisions, but in reality, they were guided¡ªnudged in the direction someone else wanted. He was nothing. Lesser. He had nothing I didn¡¯t already have¡ªexcept her. And that made him an obstacle, a challenge. So I removed him. Not with violence. That would¡¯ve been too easy. Too crude. I didn¡¯t need to dirty my hands to destroy someone. A whisper here, a rumor there. A carefully placed suggestion to the right people. A casual conversation with someone who could make life difficult for him. I watched from a distance as his life crumbled. His reputation tarnished, his future ruined. And she? She left him, just like I knew she would. Having everything at birth... lesser people think it means happiness, that we live without struggles. But they¡¯re wrong. Having everything can also mean having nothing. No challenges. No aspirations. No meaning. I felt it¡ªempty. Until¡­ When I saw her again, months later, she looked at me differently. Like she should have from the start. I didn¡¯t take her back. I didn¡¯t need to. The lesson was already learned. Power isn¡¯t about what you have¡ªit¡¯s about what you can take. And for the first time, I finally felt something real. Not love. Not happiness. Something better. Control. Yet¡­ The cityscape outside my window shuddered, like ripples distorting a reflection in water. My breath caught¡ªjust for a moment. And then¡ª ¡­¡­ [Welcome to the Continental Strife.] [Each of you chosen to participate will not only represent your homeland but, perhaps¡­.] ¡­¡­ It shattered everything. One moment, I was standing, in full command, in the midst of my life¡ªmy world¡ªand the next, I was nothing. No, not nothing. I was¡­ impounded. Torn from my existence, dragged without consent into a place so foreign it couldn¡¯t possibly be real. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. I stood in the midst of jagged rocks, sharp like broken glass, scattered wildly across a desolate landscape. Trees¡ªno, shrubs¡ªchoked the horizon, twisted and gnarled, clawing at the sky like they were trying to escape whatever cursed place this was. There were no roads. No civilization. Just raw, unyielding land. A world left untouched, untamed, and utterly beneath me. Where was I? What had happened? For a moment, I froze, my mind spinning as I tried to comprehend what I was seeing. The stark emptiness around me mocked my arrogance. There were no people, no comforts¡ªjust wilderness. Had I fallen asleep? Was this some dream, a cruel joke my mind had decided to play on me? But no... the cold air, the rough ground beneath my boots¡ªit all felt too real. The city I had known, the life I had controlled, was gone. I blinked, disbelief creeping into my chest. This couldn''t be happening. And then¡ª A shadow passed over me, a massive shape blotting out the already dim sky. I looked up instinctively, my body tensing before my mind could process what was happening. It appeared. A Dragon. Its wings stretched across the sky, blocking out the light as it soared above the treetops. Its sheer presence, the deliberate power in its flight, sent a shiver down my spine, freezing me in place. And in that instant, I felt something I hadn''t experienced in years. Fear. It made me¡ªME!¡ªfeel fear? I had never feared anything. Not in this life, not in this world. And yet, before this beast, before that monstrous, barbaric creature soaring above me, I¡­ froze. A cold shiver ran down my spine, and for a moment, I wasn¡¯t the man who controlled every room, every conversation. I was nothing. For the first time in my life, something had me questioning my every move. My heart raced¡ªnot out of excitement¡ªbut out of pure, primal fear. This¡­ this was real. For a moment, I felt small. In the lap of luxury, in the halls of power, I had never faced anything that could challenge me like this. This was beyond influence. Beyond status. And I, Evander Langley, was no longer in control. However¡­ ¡­¡­ [The "First Step" have been listed] ¡­¡­ But I couldn¡¯t stay frozen. I wasn¡¯t weak. Not yet. I would find a way to rise. A path opened before me. A way to regain control. A way to grow stronger than anyone could imagine. Where after the one "responsible"¡ªor so I assumed¡ªspoke, something within me my sight, "First Step" or something appeared, urging me to rise¡­ my level? Then, it appeared¡ªmy level, displayed through something called Status. And in that instant, its meaning became crystal clear. This was my way to power. My way to regain control. No... it was more than that. This was my way to gain absolute control. Through this system, I would reshape everything. Driven by the need to regain my strength, I moved through the dense forest, my eyes constantly scanning. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and pine, and beneath the surface, I could hear the faintest sounds of movement. There. A Forest Deer. It was grazing, unaware of my presence. A simple creature, driven by instincts rather than intelligence. I could feel the hunger stirring in my gut, but I wasn¡¯t about to let base instincts dictate my actions. I wasn¡¯t a savage. I wouldn¡¯t hunt by brute force alone. Instead, I observed¡ªits movements, its rhythm. I noticed a dense patch of undergrowth just ahead, with thick vines that would tangle easily around anything that stumbled through. I used that knowledge, carefully positioning myself to stay out of sight and calculating the deer¡¯s next steps. Then, I moved. With precise timing, I triggered a series of vine traps I¡¯d set up earlier, each one snapping into place as the deer unwittingly walked right into them. The vines wrapped around its legs, pulling it down gently without inflicting harm, just enough to immobilize it. It struggled briefly, but I moved quickly, securing it without violence, with control. There would be no need for injury. The deer was captured. And I had what I needed: food. But more importantly, I had proved something to myself. Power wasn''t just in strength or aggression. It was in control. As I knelt to secure my catch, something unfamiliar stirred within me. A sensation¡ªnot just the satisfaction of a successful hunt¡ªbut a surge, a pulse deep within my chest. I felt lighter, rejuvenated¡­ and empowered. As a flood of notification flooded my vision. ¡­¡­ [You have successfully defeated the Forest Deer (Lv.4)] [Your race level rises by 1] [Racial Level Up Bonus: +1 Spirit, +1 Constitution] [Level Up Bonus: 2+ Undistributed Stats Obtained] [You have reached Level 1 and your Innate Ability [Son of the Luminous Day] (1st) Stage has been unlocked] [Innate Skill Effects: 1+ Spirit, 1+ Agility] [Commission "First Step" Objective has been completed!] ¡­¡­ The words appeared before my eyes, glowing with an undeniable light. I stared at the screen, my breath catching. My body thrummed with newfound energy, an undeniable force building beneath my skin. My thoughts were clearer, sharper, as though my mind itself had expanded. I looked down at the deer, the reality of what had just happened slowly sinking in. I opened my ''status'' to check what changes appeared. My stats increase and just that, I unlocked my innate ability and skill. ¡­¡­ Innate Ability: [ Son of the Luminous Day ] (1st Stage) ¡ª You possess a natural ability to command attention and inspire. Your connection to light enhances your charisma and influence, making it easier to lead and captivate others. However, your reliance on brilliance leaves you vulnerable when the light fades. Any action involving leadership or persuasion gains an enhanced bonus. ¡­¡­ Innate Skill: ( Under the Sun of the Day ) SKILL RANK [A++] ¨C You are born under the sunlight, drawing strength and vitality from its rays. Your body and mind thrive in the presence of the sun, enhancing your endurance and resilience. You remain immune to fatigue and can push beyond your limits, growing stronger with each moment under its light. Passive Effect [1] ¡ª Bonus: With each level-up, your agility and spirit will gain bonus stats. Passive Effect [2] ¡ª Sun Vitality: While under the sunlight, your connection to the sun enhances your mana, stamina, and health regeneration, allowing you to recover faster. You also gain a 5% boost to your agility and spirit, making you quicker, more resilient, and mentally sharper when exposed to light. ¡­¡­ It was more than I had hoped for. Not only did I gain power, but I was gifted with something that would allow me to bend others to my will. Charisma, influence¡­ It was as if the system had seen me for who I truly was, and it was already paving the way for me to seize everything I had ever wanted. I felt the sun on my face, its rays warming my skin. My body surged with vitality, and I could feel the light feeding me, making me stronger. The sensation was intoxicating. Power. Influence. Control. This was no accident. This was my destiny. I looked at the deer again, the hunt having already faded from my mind. The kill was nothing now. The real prize was in my grasp. This system would give me everything I needed. I would rise higher than anyone ever thought possible. No one would stand in my way. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 7 - No Rest for the Weary ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- Chapter [7] — No Rest for the Weary Viktor¡¯s boots pressed against the damp forest floor, his steps steady despite the weight of exhaustion clinging to his limbs. The scent of wet earth and pine filled the air, mingling with the faint, metallic tang of blood that still clung to his skin. Slung over his shoulder, his tattered leather apron had been repurposed into a makeshift bag, its sturdy fabric tied at the ends to hold whatever meager supplies he had gathered¡ªgoblin knives, a handful of berries, piglet tusks, and a strip of dried meat looted from one of the creatures¡¯ filthy pouches. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was something. Beside him, a massive, hollowed-out tree stood like a silent sentinel in the gloom. Its gnarled bark was split open, revealing a dark cavity within¡ªlarge enough for a man to crawl inside and vanish from sight. A shelter. A hiding place. Maybe even a grave, depending on how the night unfolded. But he didn¡¯t stop. He couldn¡¯t afford to. His body screamed for rest, The wounds from the goblin fight still stung, but they weren¡¯t fatal. Even the deep cut on his back¡ªcarved by the last goblin¡¯s knife¡ªhad closed when he leveled up. His body was far from recovered, but the dull throb of pain was manageable. Yes, he had leveled up¡ªtwice at that. The rush of power had been brief but noticeable¡ªthe aching fatigue pushed back ever so slightly, his muscles no longer on the verge of collapse. His Spirit, Constitution, and Strength had all increased, the changes subtle yet undeniably present. Honestly, he was relieved to have gained two levels. After ten grueling hours¡ªfacing wolves and goblins alike¡ªhe had been on the verge of blacking out. The goblin fight had been brief but brutal. A second too slow, a wrong step¡ªone mistake was all it would take. And when that happened, it wouldn¡¯t matter how many goblins he had killed. The forest would swallow him whole, and he would simply become another forgotten corpse among the roots. He took a slow breath, wincing at the tight pull of muscles that had been pushed far past their limits. His stats had increased, restoring some stamina and clarity, but the exhaustion still gnawed at him, relentless. His body was screaming for rest, but his mind remained wary, unwilling to let its guard down completely. He cast a wary glance at the darkened treetops above. The night had settled in fully now, bringing with it the unseen dangers that lurked within the forest¡¯s depths. Wolves, goblins¡ªthings he hadn¡¯t yet encountered but knew existed. He had no illusions of safety. With a grunt, he knelt down near the hollowed tree, inspecting its interior. The space was tight but dry, protected from the wind and mostly concealed by the thick undergrowth surrounding it. It would do for now. He reached into his makeshift bag and pulled out the stolen strip of dried meat, tearing into it with slow, methodical bites. It was tough, gamey, and carried a faint, rancid aftertaste¡ªbut food was food. He chewed through it in silence, his mind racing even as his body threatened to shut down. ¡®Status,¡¯ he thought, chewing methodically as the familiar texts flickered into his vision. ¡­¡­ [You have successfully defeated the Goblin (Lv.4)] [You have successfully defeated the Goblin (Lv.3)] [You have successfully defeated the Goblin (Lv.5)] [You have successfully defeated the Goblin (Lv.4)] [Your race level rises by 2] [Racial Level Up Bonus: +2 Spirit, +2 Constitution] [Level Up Bonus: 4+ Undistributed Stats Obtained] [Innate Skill Effects: 2+ Constitution, 2+ Strength] [You have successfully defeated the (Young) Wild Boar Piglet (Lv.3)] ¡­¡­ [Status] : ¡ª Name : Viktor Race : [Human ¡ª Lv.3] Innate : [ Branded By Fire and Steel ] If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation. Innate Rank : [ 1st Stage ] ¡­¡­ [Attribute(s)] : ¡ª Health 116/140 ¡ú 156/180 + Stamina 11/70 ¡ú 31/90 + Mana 13/40 ¡ú 23/50 + Strength: 12 ¡ú 14 + Agility: 9 Constitution: 14 ¡ú 18 + Spirit : 8 ¡ú 10 + Undistributed stats : 0 ¡ú 4+ ¡­¡­ Innate Skill(s) : ¡ª [Man of Tempered Steel (A)] Acquired Skill(s) : ¡ª [Boost (F)] Infused Skill(s) : ¡ª [Wolf Repulsion (E)] ¡­¡­ Looking at his status, Viktor could feel the improvements in his body¡ªstronger, more resilient, his stamina no longer on the brink of collapse. His Constitution had increased the most, leaving him feeling sturdier, more enduring. Yet, amidst these gains, one glaring issue remained. His Agility. It hadn¡¯t increased. Not even by a single point. It was barely noticeable, but with his years of blacksmithing experience, he could tell¡ªhis movements felt just a bit¡­ heavier. Not sluggish, but off. A disconnect. His body had grown tougher, able to withstand more action, but his speed hadn¡¯t caught up. It was like wearing a suit of armor he hadn¡¯t fully adjusted to. Blacksmithing required precise control over his hands, a steady balance between strength and dexterity. That was how he noticed it. A slight worry crept into his mind. If his Constitution kept rising while his Agility lagged behind¡­ what would happen? Would he become an immovable wall, too slow to dodge, forced to endure every attack head-on? A tank? "Ha, just what I wanted¡ªa walking fortress," Viktor sighed, tiredly. The obvious solution was to allocate his Undistributed Stats into Agility, but that could wait. For now, the imbalance wasn¡¯t affecting him much. Besides, his acquired skill, [Boost], had proven useful. Speaking of which¡­ After killing the last goblin and putting the poor piglet to rest, a new notification had appeared. ¡­¡­ Acquired Skill : [Boost] RANK (F) ¨C Increase agility by 5 points and reflexes by 3% for 5 Mana per minute, enhancing movement and reaction speed. Rank [E] Prerequisites: ¨C Defeat 10 opponents with superior Agility while using the skill. Progress: (4/10) ¡­¡­ Apparently, Acquired Skills could be upgraded after fulfilling certain conditions¡ªa welcome surprise. And those green midgets had been proven to be faster than him. He now had another way to increase his power, increasing his survival, as he guessed skills was hard to gain. As for the young boar piglet, he¡¯d considered harvesting its hide and meat, but the scent of blood would only draw unwanted attention. He wasn¡¯t in any condition for a third fight¡ªnot with exhaustion weighing down his limbs and death still a very real possibility. Instead, he used his trusted chisel to carve out its tusks. It proved more difficult than expected, even with the boar already dead, but after some effort, he managed. He planned to use the tusks later, combining them with the crude goblin knives or other materials to fashion a basic weapon¡ªeither a Tusk Knife or a Spear. Yawning, Viktor, mentally and physically drained, moved to gather some bushes to close the entrance to the Hallowed Tree. He needed to secure the area before finally getting some rest. The exhaustion in his limbs was undeniable, but the thought of rest kept him moving. Though the hallowed tree provided him shelter, he didn¡¯t want to risk being caught off guard. He gathered nearby bushes and brambles, pushing them up against the entrance to block it as best he could. It wasn¡¯t perfect, but it would have to do for now. Once he was satisfied with the makeshift barrier, Viktor glanced around the interior of the hallowed tree. The space felt secure for now. The thick, ancient wood enveloped him, offering both protection and a strange sense of calm, but he wasn¡¯t na?ve enough to think it would keep everything out. With a tired sigh, Viktor leaned against one of the inner tree trunks, his body sore and fatigued. His mind still buzzed with the day¡¯s events¡ªthe wolves, the goblins, the boar, the new skill¡ªeverything had unfolded so quickly. Yet, fatigue gradually overtook him. His eyes grew heavy, and as he settled onto the soft, moss-covered ground inside the tree, he pulled his knees to his chest for warmth. And with a final breath, he succumbed to sleep ¡­¡­ Elsewhere, hidden deep within an twilight forest¡­ The air was thick with silence, heavy with an unseen presence. Towering trees with bark as dark as slate loomed in every direction, their sprawling canopies weaving together like the threads of an unbroken shroud. The leaves, shadow-kissed and ghostly, seemed to melt into the eternal dusk, blurring the line between foliage and night itself. No sunlight touched this place. What little illumination existed came from bioluminescent flora¡ªsoft, pulsing glows of deep violet and cold cerulean, casting flickering reflections upon the gnarled roots that twisted like serpents along the forest floor. The air shimmered faintly, distortions rippling through the space between trunks, illusions shifting like whispers on the wind. This was no ordinary woodland. Yet, flickering in long strides, a cloaked figure moved effortlessly through the forest, each step like a shadow¡ªone moment present, the next appearing several paces ahead. The illusions warped and shimmered around them, but they passed through it all with unnerving ease, as if the very fabric of the forest bent to their will. The cloak blended with the shadows, merging seamlessly with the night as the figure moved through the enchanted haze, undisturbed by the forest¡¯s twisted nature. After a while, the figure came to an abrupt halt, standing in front of a tree. It appeared no different from the others¡ªdark, foreboding, its bark slick and smooth with the strange, otherworldly lime glow of the forest. It was an ordinary tree among countless others in this ethereal place. Yet, the stillness in the air carried an unseen weight, as if the forest itself was watching. Then, without warning, the silence was shattered. A voice, deep and resonant, rippled through the air, coming from every direction. It felt as if it reached directly into the figure¡¯s very soul. "Identify yourself." The figure stood still, their form blending further into the shadows. The air around them seemed to pulse with darkness, the magic of the forest crackling ever so faintly. Without a second thought, they reached up to their hood, fingers brushing the dark blue fabric. With a swift motion, the figure pushed the hood back, revealing¡ª ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 8 - ??. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] Rank Prerequisites ¡ª Refer to specific conditions that must be met before a skill can upgrade to the next tier. These conditions may vary depending on the nature of the skill and the individual''s experiences. They are most commonly found in low and common-rank skills, requiring the user to fulfill certain tasks¡ªsuch as repeated usage, defeating specific enemies, or achieving mastery¡ªbefore the skill evolves. Chapter [8] — Whispers Under the Moonlight With a swift motion, the figure pushed the hood back, revealing¡ªtan skin, traced with faint silver patterns that seemed to shimmer in the moonlight. Her long, silver-white hair cascaded down her back like a river of starlight, framing her charm. Her sharp features were unwavering, her violet eyes reflecting the unseen presence that had called to her. A moon elf, unmasked in the night. The same voice, deep and resonant, echoed through the silence. "Enter." The moment the command was given, the forest parted, and the way was clear. With a steady breath, she stepped forward, her movements fluid and graceful. Before her loomed the colossal tree¡ªits bark black as midnight, its roots twisting like serpents around the earth, leading upward into the unknown. She placed a foot on the path, where the roots had formed a natural spiral staircase, winding upward in perfect harmony with the stone that supported them. The path was lit with the faintest glow, as if the tree itself was alive with magic, each step a connection to the ancient power that pulsed within. As she climbed, the settlement unfolded above her, a dream-like vision that seemed to drift in and out of reality. Vines wove between the great branches, and the silver leaves of the tree shimmered, casting a soft, ethereal light across the wooden structures suspended in the air. Bridges of woven roots and luminescent threads linked the towering forms of trees, creating a network of homes, meeting places, and quiet alcoves. It was a city borne of nature itself, alive with an ancient grace, bathed in the eternal glow of the moon. The air was cool, filled with the scent of earth and the quiet hum of magic. Here, the moon elves had lived for centuries, hidden from the outside world, yet ever-present within their sacred home. She moved faster now, eager to reach the heart of the tree. Ahead, the branches opened, revealing the grand entrance¡ªarched doors of living wood, carved into the very trunk of the tree. Silver light spilled from within, drawing her closer. As she crossed the threshold, the air grew thick with power. The grand hall stretched before her, walls made of polished bark and branches, glowing softly with the light of moonstone lanterns. The scent of earth and wood filled the space, and in the center of the hall, a massive spiral staircase wound upward, leading to the higher chambers of the palace. The architecture was both elegant and practical, the natural beauty of the tree blending seamlessly with the artistry of the moon elves. She moved swiftly, her presence familiar in these halls, as if this place was made for her¡ªthe heart of the moon elf city, bathed in silver light, waiting to receive her. She moved through the palace, the air thickening as she neared the throne room. The walls, etched with moonlit patterns, shimmered in the soft glow of the silver leaves above. At the door stood two guards, draped in flowing cloaks of midnight blue, their silvery eyes watching with quiet authority. No armor¡ªonly the elegance of their robes and the quiet power they emanated. They didn¡¯t step aside, but their gaze met hers with silent acknowledgment. Without a word, she approached. The great doors, carved with ancient symbols, creaked open before her, not by command, but by unspoken magic. The throne room revealed itself¡ªbathed in moonlight, the throne standing solemnly at the far end. The space held a quiet reverence, as if the palace itself recognized her arrival. At the base of the throne stood two figures¡ªan elder woman and man. The woman was draped in a robe of white, its fabric flowing like moonlight itself, a soft gleam surrounding her as though she embodied the very light of the moon. On her sleeve, a black crescent was embroidered, mysterious and dark, its curves sharp yet elegant. Beside her, the elder man wore a robe of black, the deep shadows of the fabric absorbing the light around him. His presence was solemn, imposing, but not menacing. His cloak was adorned with a white crescent, pure and radiant, as though it held the light of the stars within it. They stood silently, their eyes filled with wisdom and understanding, watching her approach. No words were spoken, yet their presence commanded both respect and reverence. She moved forward, her footsteps measured and deliberate. The throne, carved from the living wood of the ancient tree, stood ahead¡ªmajestic and empty in the center of the room. The room held its breath, awaiting what would come next. Without hesitation, she knelt before the empty throne, her movements slow and deliberate. The silence settled before she spoke, her voice soft as a whisper, like the rustling of velvet in the still of the night. "I''ve returned with news from outside," she murmured, the words drifting through the silence like a quiet song. The elder woman looked at the kneeling figure, her silver eyes gleaming unreadable. She stepped forward, her voice soft but with a warm teasing lilt. The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. "Tell us, Twyla," she said, "What news could possibly be worthy of reaching the throne? What has stirred the night outside our home?" The elder man beside her raised an eyebrow, the faintest trace of a smile tugging at his lips. "Indeed," he added, his tone warm, "What could demand the throne''s attention?" Ignoring their teasing tone, Twyla, driven by her sense of duty, spoke. "A sudden influx of countless individuals from various races has spread throughout the lands, appearing simultaneously in every direction." "Every direction?" the elder woman repeated, her teasing lilt fading away. The elder man¡¯s brow lifted slightly, his voice thoughtful. "A gathering of many, yet without warning?" He hummed. "Not merchants, then. Not mere wanderers." Twyla shook her head. "I don¡¯t know what you may not, elders. They move with no clear purpose¡ªno banners raised, no calls for battle¡ªbut... they seem lost. Confused, even." The elder woman¡¯s gaze was unreadable, her lips pressing together as she absorbed the information. "Lost?" she murmured, almost to herself. "Yet they seek nothing?" Twyla hesitated, her fingers twitching at her sides as if unsure of how to explain. "No signs of searching, no clear goal," she replied, her voice uncertain. "Just¡­ suddenly, they appeared in every direction. One moment, nothing. The next, they were here. It¡¯s as if they were pulled from somewhere else, without any warning or reason." The elder man¡¯s eyes narrowed slightly, his tone taking on a deeper edge. "And no one understands their presence?" Twyla shook her head, a faint frown forming. "No, elders. No message, no common purpose. They are scattered across the lands, appearing out of nowhere. Some move together, but not as if by design." She paused, then added, "Some wear strange clothes¡ªthings I¡¯ve never seen before. And while some gather in groups, others have already begun fighting among themselves. They don¡¯t seem to understand why they¡¯re here¡ªor even where they are." The elder woman stepped closer, her silver eyes gleaming. "And the races? Are they familiar to you?" Twyla shook her head. "Some are¡ªhumans, elves, dwarfs, orcs¡ªbut others... are races I don¡¯t recognize. They¡¯re unlike anything I¡¯ve seen before¡­But" The elder man raised an eyebrow. "But?" Twyla hesitated, her thoughts tangled as she tried to put the strange sight into words. "They are weak," she said slowly, her voice laced with uncertainty. "The Mana I felt from them... it¡¯s faint, barely there. Their bodies¡ª" she paused, searching for a way to describe it. "They¡¯re unlike anything I¡¯ve encountered before. They move slowly, like they¡¯ve been drained, though they¡¯ve only just arrived." The elder woman¡¯s silver eyes flickered with concern, her brow furrowing as she murmured to herself. "Strange... they move without purpose, without aim. Could it be...?" The elder man, his expression equally perplexed, muttered under his breath. "Not from this world... but what draws them here?" His gaze seemed distant, lost in thought. "This is... Unheard." The silence lingered for a moment, thick with confusion and uncertainty, until a voice broke through the stillness¡ªmelodic, as if carried on the soft breeze of a moonlit night. "Strife." The voice was like the gentle ripple of a lullaby, light and playful, yet carrying an undeniable weight that stirred the very air around them. It was a voice both soothing and captivating, as though it came from the very heart of the moonlit sky. Every syllable hung in the air like the first note of a forgotten song, calling them to listen. Twyla¡¯s head snapped up, her eyes searching for the source of the voice. The elder woman and man turned as well, their faces shifting into expressions of recognition and respect. The voice spoke again, its tone sweet and teasing, like the whisper of the night wind through the branches of the ancient tree. "Strife, yes. It is all so obvious, isn¡¯t it?" The voice seemed to dance on the edges of their thoughts, as if the words themselves held a secret smile. And then, without a sound, she appeared. It was as though she had always been there, seated upon the empty throne, her presence so commanding that it seemed impossible to think of the throne without her. One moment, it was empty, and the next, she was there¡ªseated gracefully as if she had been waiting in the shadows all along, watching them without their knowing. Her arrival was seamless, as if the throne and she had always belonged together. As she settled into the throne, something subtle and magical began to happen. The air itself seemed to shimmer, the very fabric of the room bending with her presence. The soft moonlight, which had filled the throne room in a gentle, calming glow, suddenly intensified, cascading down from the canopy above like a silver tide. It was as if the moon itself had drawn closer, bathing the space in a luminous radiance that made the shadows retreat. The light rippled through the room like liquid silver, illuminating every curve and detail of her form. The polished bark of the walls gleamed under the newfound intensity, casting delicate patterns on the floor. The throne¡ªonce a dark, majestic seat¡ªnow seemed to glow softly in response to her, its every contour outlined in luminous brilliance. The woman¡¯s dark hair cascaded down her back, shimmering with the faintest silver sheen, as though the night itself had woven her tresses. Her eyes, gleaming silver like the moon, sparkled with mischievous light, and her smile was playful, filled with untold depths. She moved with an ethereal grace that made her seem both untouchable and utterly captivating. She was cloaked in a black dress that clung to her form with delicate precision, almost see-through, and shimmered in the moonlight, revealing the faintest hint of her ethereal form beneath. The dress seemed to pulse with a life of its own, a seamless extension of the moonlight, leaving little to the imagination. It hugged her body as though it were made of the very fabric of the night itself, flowing effortlessly around her as she shifted in her seat. The thin, translucent fabric seemed to capture the light, making her look as if she were both part of the shadows and the light at once, an enigma. Her beauty was intoxicating, almost overwhelming, yet it was not just her appearance that held the room in sway¡ªit was her presence. It was the kind of beauty that didn¡¯t just exist in the physical; it was in the very air around her, something that felt ancient, unknowable, and eternal. The crown upon her head was understated but regal, a thin band of silver that caught the moonlight, its delicate shape mirroring the crescent of the moon. It was a symbol of power, but of a power that was soft and enduring, like the moon¡¯s glow itself. It rested atop her dark hair, a subtle contrast to the brilliance of her eyes. She sat upon the throne as if it were the most natural thing in the world, her posture perfect, yet effortless. The throne seemed to hum with life beneath her, as if it, too, were alive and reacting to her presence. Her voice broke the silence, smooth and melodic, like a lullaby whispered on the wind. "A Strife between races, lands, continents, and¡­ realms." Her words lingered in the air, rich with meaning and unspoken weight, drawing the room into an unspoken understanding. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. UPCOMING NEXT - CHAPTER 9 - ??. ¡­¡­¡­¡­¡­. GLOSSARY -:- [1] Moon Elves : A reclusive and enigmatic race, deeply connected to the moon and night¡¯s rhythm. Some bear faint silver markings, while others remain unmarked. Their hair ranges from midnight to silver-white, and their glowing eyes reflect lunar light. Gifted in lunar and dark magic, they weave illusions, move with heightened agility under moonlight, and communicate through whispered currents in the air. Reserved yet graceful, their presence is both ethereal and elusive.