《Floating Islands: SSS Gacha System》 Chapter 5 - Aqua Crystal As still had 90 Exclusive Tickets and 200 Standard Tickets! Oh, he was beyond excited¡ªthe journey ahead was long, and he had only used 10 Exclusive Tickets so far. For his first 10 pulls, he had been incredibly lucky. Two Rank-A and one Rank-S summon, though thest one had its...plications. Now, his attention shifted to the second banner¡ªthe Exclusive Weapon Banner. In this one, the Bloodkissed Scythe was featured, a weapon clearly meant for Morganna. While aiming for the scythe, he figured that any Rank-A pulls mightnd him other useful weapons, either for himself or for Karian, who stillcked any gear. Wasting no time, he grabbed another 10 Exclusive Tickets. With a grin, he tossed them into the air. The tickets shot up, spinning like the hands of a clock before settling. Their covers revealed their colors¡ª8 brown, 2 purple! As smiled, satisfied. For just 10 pulls,nding two Rank-A items was a solid win. [You have obtained 8 Rank-B items, and 2 Rank-A items] As opened the first ticket and frowned slightly when the item materialized as a simple bag. Curious, he checked its details. [You have received 1 Evergreen Soil Bag.] [Evergreen Soil Bag: A magical sack of rich, enchanted soil that, when spread across barrennd, revitalizes it and promotes rapid nt growth. This soil makes thend fertile enough to grow crops, trees, or nts quickly.] He nodded and smiled. This was exactly what he needed right now. Even though it was just one bag, he would definitely need more if he wanted to turn his ind into something truly fertile. "Evergreen Soil Bag," he said. He took the soil bag in hand and turned to Edrik, who quickly caught on and bowed before approaching. "My Lord, allow me to handle this task. I wouldn''t want you to trouble yourself with such mundane work." As grinned, appreciating Edrik''s smooth way of speaking. The man had a knack for saying exactly what people wanted to hear, though who knew what was really going on inside his head? "Please choose the best spot to spread it¡ªmaybe the center of the ind, or wherever you think is right. We need to start improving this ce." "Understood, My Lord," Edrik replied, taking the bag and walking away. [You have received 100 Units of Wood.] [You have received 100 Units of Stone.] [You have received 100 Units of Stone.] [You have received 50 Units of Iron.] [You have received 50 Units of Iron.] The next five items were exactly what he needed: materials to build the fortress. He quickly checked his overall inventory and grinned widely. Yes, he had enough to finally start construction. "Jackpot! Now tell me, I can build my fortress now, right?" [Yes, Host. You just need to choose the location, and construction will begin immediately.] "Cool," he whispered to himself. He nced over at Morganna, who was still struggling, trying to break free. Huh? Hismand had been clear¡ªonce she calmed down and was ready for peace, she''d be released. Controlling rage really wasn''t as easy as it sounded, he thought with a sigh. As walked toward the center of the ind, Karian silently following behind him. Edrik, who had been working nearby, noticed As approaching and straightened up. "My Lord, I''ve chosen this spot. You can ce the fortress here, in the center. It''ll give us betternd to prioritize for future growth," Edrik said, gesturing to the area he had prepared. "Good job, Edrik." With that, a question formed in his mind, and as if the system had anticipated it, an interface appeared before him¡ªa 3D hologram of his floating ind. "Ahh, so this is how it works," he mused. As selected the avable fortress structure and moved it into position on the hologram, cing it carefully at the ind''s center. Once he was sure of the cement, he pressed the confirm button. [You have spent 300 Units of Wood, 250 Units of Stone, 150 Units of Iron, and 20 Units of Mana Crystals to build Fortress Stage 1 - Outpost Fortress.] [The building process will take 12 hours.] As soon as the notification appeared, the magic began. The wood, stone, iron, and all the materials needed to build the fortress started floating in from the distance, as if summoned by an unseen force. Items from As''s inventory joined the flow, adding to the swirling mass of resources. The materials gathered in one ce, and then, as if guided by invisible hands, they floated toward their designated spots. Piece by piece, the structure began to take form, just like something out of a game. The foundation appeared first, followed by the framework. Each material seamlessly transformed and assembled itself, locking into ce as though it had always belonged there.@@novelbin@@ It was mesmerizing to witness¡ªthe bones of the fortress rising from nothing, crafted by pure magic. Stones aligned themselves into walls, iron reinforced the structure, and the mana crystals shimmered, adding a faint glow to the foundation. "This is so mesmerizing to watch." The sheer power and convenience of magic in this ce were astounding. If only structures on Earth could be built this easily, with materials floating and assembling themselves through magic¡­ But no, this kind of wonder could only be experienced by those lucky enough to own floating inds. "The construction will take 12 hours, My Lord," Edrik said, bowing to him. "Yes, that''s fine. We''ve got plenty of time. Let''s explore more," As replied with a smile. He returned to where his remaining floating tickets were¡ªfour still unopened. He quickly pulled the next one. [You have received 1 Evergreen Soil Bag.] [You have received 20 Units of Mana Crystals.] "Ah, good," he muttered. Another soil bag. Was the system purposely giving him exactly what he needed? He took the bag and handed it to Edrik, who bowed and immediately got back to work. Now there were just two Rank-A items left. As grabbed the next one. [You have received Rank-A Item: Aqua Crystal.] [Aqua Crystals: Crystals that release water when nted in the ground. When buried in dry, barrennd, they create an underground water source, turning it into fertile farnd or allowing nearby wells to refill naturally.] "Well, this is exactly what I need," As said, holding up the crystal, which sparkled as it caught the sunlight. It looked so tempting, he almost wanted to swallow it¡ªhis throat was dry, and he was starting to realize just how thirsty and hungry he was getting. How was he supposed to find food? He could end up starving to death before anyone even had the chance to attack him! As walked over to Edrik and Karian, handing the Aqua Crystal to Karian, who epted it with a deep bow. "That''s some serious luck, My Lord," Edrik said with a grin. "We needed water, and your system delivered." "Yeah," As nodded. "I wonder if the system will give us food too. I''m starting to feel hungry." "No need to worry, My Lord. If ites to it, we can always ask Karian to lend us a limb for a meal¡­" Edrik said, his tone casual. Everyone turned to look at him¡ªAs, Karian, and even Morganna. "You''re not serious, are you?" As asked. Edrik smiled. "No, My Lord. Just a joke." Karian let out a heavy sigh, clearly relieved. "Wait¡ªdid you actually do that in your previous world?" "Yes." "No." Edrik and Karian answered almost in unison. "Ah, survival must have been pretty brutal, huh?" As chuckled, though part of him wasn''t sure if they were still joking. His thirst was starting to get the better of him, so he walked over to Karian, eager to see if the Aqua Crystal had already begun working. He was really thirsty! Chapter 8 - I Want You I Need You Morganna seethed with rage, her fury boiling over as she struggled tosh out, to unleash her wrath. But this cursed restraint was holding her back, immobilizing her. She tried to break free, but her efforts were in vain. She red at the one who had summoned her¡ªa low-level human, weak and pitiful. How could such a miserable creature dare to call her? And to make matters worse, because of his pathetic level, Morganna herself had been forced to drop in power, losing much of what made her formidable. She growled, still thrashing and rebelling, her eyes fixed on the foolish man. What was he doing? How could he have managed to summon Lords from another world at such an early phase? And on this barren, dry ind of all ces! Morganna kept fighting against the restraints, her frustration mounting. What were they doing over there? And why did it smell so good? Roar! She could feel her strength starting to fade. After spending an entire day under the harsh sunlight, her energy was dwindling. The summoning penalty had left her weak, a mere shadow of her usual self. And it was all because of that stupid human! Wait, what is that aroma? It smells delicious. Meat? But no, she was hungry for something else. She needed blood. Rich, exquisite blood, something that would nourish her, restore her strength, and elerate her recovery. And there he was¡ªthe foolish human¡ªwalking closer, with that pathetic, miserable expression on his face. She red at him with burning eyes, hatred burning through her like wildfire. She wanted to kill him, drain him dry, and then rip apart everyone else on this ind. "Hey, I have food. You must be hungry, right?" the little, stupid human said in a disgustingly casual tone. I will kill you. Release me, you idiot, you¡ª Morganna raged internally. But all that escaped her lips was, "Hamu, hemu, hamu, hamu hamu." The man smiled. What was that smile? Was it the grin of someone about to die? "Listen, Ms. Morganna," he continued, "I have no intention of making you a ve. No, I understand you were someone important back where you came from. But fate has brought us together here, so it''s better if we get along and work together. What do you think?" Stop this nonsense, you pathetic piece of trash! Morganna screamed in her mind. I don''t need a weakling like you as my leader. You''re worthless! I refuse to be a subordinate! I am a queen! I am powerful! But all she could do was re, her lips twitching with words she couldn''t voice, as the restraints held her silent and still. Urgh! Morganna''s body felt weaker by the minute, her strength slipping away. She needed blood, and she needed it now. If she didn''t get some soon, she might lose consciousness, and the thought of that humiliation burned inside her. She was used to living with a steady supply of high-quality blood, provided by her loyal subordinates. But here? She had nothing. And she hated it. Then, to her shock, As did somethingpletely unexpected. He stepped closer, rolled up his sleeve, and exposed his wrist. With casual motion, he took out a knife and cut his skin just enough to draw blood. Crimson droplets welled up, trailing down his arm. "I know you need blood. Take it," he said. "But don''t take too much¡ªI need it to stay alive," he added. It made Morganna want to scream. This little piece of trash! Without breaking eye contact, he extended his bleeding wrist toward her lips, as if he was trying to soothe a wild animal. "Here," he said softly. "It should help." Morganna''s eyes widened, a mix of rage and confusion swirling within them. Her mind reeled. Was this human actually attempting to im her? Damn it! Stop it! You trash! In the vampire world, this kind of gesture was deeply symbolic. Offering one''s blood so openly was an act of profound intimacy, a gesture reserved for strong, unbreakable bonds¡ªeither between lovers or a master and their most devoted servant. To do so without hesitation, without fear, was almost like a deration, a way to forge a personal and binding connection. From her perspective, As''s gesture felt like a mix of arrogance and presumption. It was as if he was trying to assert some kind of im over her, to bind her to him. Every instinct in her told her tosh out, to tear into him, to drain him dry and show him what happened to those who dared to treat her with such familiarity. As''s wrist brushed against her lips, and the warmth of it irritated her. She wanted to push it away, to spit in his face. But then, the first drop of blood touched her lips, sliding into her mouth. What is this?! What is this?! The taste was unlike anything she had ever experienced¡ªso sweet, so rich, so full of energy. It wasn''t just nourishment; it was like a drug, intoxicating her senses, calming the raging storm inside her. Her body trembled, her nerves buzzing with a sensation that was almost euphoric. In an instant, the fury and hatred that had consumed her melted away, reced by a wave of warmth, a surge of vitality that made her feel alive, reborn, with just a single gulp. The blood flowed, filling her body with energy, like a spark that set every nerve on fire. This is... what is this... I want more! I want it from his neck, where it''s stronger, richer. But if she did that, it would be the same as admitting she was submitting to him, that she had willingly given herself over to his control. No! I won''t! she screamed internally. But the blood was too irresistible¡ªtoo sweet, too fragrant, too fresh, too electrifying. She needed more, from a ce where the taste was even richer, even more intoxicating. Her eyes glowed a vivid red, and in that instant, the restraints on her body shattered. She could move again, and she didn''t waste a moment. "I want you!" she growled. With a sudden, blinding speed, she lunged at As. Her left arm slid around his back, gripping him tightly, while her right hand grasped the back of his head, pulling him closer. Her fangs extended, and without hesitation, she sank them into the side of his neck. "I want more!" she hissed, her voice muffled against his skin as she drank deeply. "My Lord!" the other trash shouted in shock. But Morganna didn''t care. She was lost in the sensation, the taste of his blood filling her senses, overwhelming her. It wasn''t just sustenance¡ªshe craved it, she craved him, more than anything she had ever wanted or needed before. *** (Author''s Note:) So, As went from "casual diplomacy" to "intense vampire bonding ritual" in about ten seconds t. I mean, who knew bloodletting could be so... tender? ?? I bet Edrik and Karian were just standing there like, "Do we¡­ intervene? Or¡­ just¡­ let this happen?" ?? I have a feeling Morganna''s about to cause a whole lot of trouble, and I am here for it!@@novelbin@@ Chapter 9 - This is my Baby! "My Lord!" Edrik and Karian shouted in shock. They rushed forward, ready to intervene, but then skidded to a stop as As lifted his left hand slightly, signaling them to halt. It was a clear gesture¡ªI''m okay. As had been stunned when the restraints on the Vampire Queen broke, but nothing prepared him for what happened next. In a sh, she lunged at him, grabbing him tightly and sinking her fangs into his neck. For a moment, panic surged through him. This was the first time a vampire had ever bitten him directly¡ªwas he going to turn into a vampire now? But then he remembered that vampires had greater endurance and several benefits that humans didn''t possess.@@novelbin@@ No, I shouldn''t worry about that, he thought. But then there was the sensation. It was weird... but not exactly unpleasant. How was he supposed to describe this? Comforting? Enjoyable? Damn, he thought, trying to suppress the wave of emotions. I can''t let this get weird, but... what the hell is this feeling? He stood there, rigid and still¡ªnot in pain, but overwhelmed by a bizarre mix of sensations. As her fangs drew blood from his neck, he felt his own body responding. It was as if every cell in his body had woken up, buzzing with energy. His heart pounded wildly, and any fatigue he''d been feeling melted away, reced by a surge of vitality, like he''d just downed the most potent energy drink imaginable. He could feel the steady flow of blood entering the Vampire Queen''s mouth, and her touch... It was intoxicating. Her scent was sweet and fragrant, her skin soft and warm against his, and the way she held him¡ªfirm, unyielding¡ªmade it clear she wasn''t letting her prey escape. But strangely, it didn''t hurt. In fact, it felt weirdly¡­ good. Damn, his thoughts were spiraling out of control! Is this what being bitten by a vampire actually feels like? If this was harming him, the Vampire Queen would have been forced to stop by the system. Instead, it felt almost as if she was pulling him deeper into a trance, like aforting embrace he didn''t quite understand but couldn''t resist. Silence settled over them for a moment, until a soft sigh escaped from the Vampire Queen. The sound of her drinking, followed by quiet, almost sensual sighs, filled his ears. Slowly, she released her grip and stepped back, wiping the remnants of blood from her lips. This time, when she looked at As, her gaze was different¡ªno longer burning with the rage that had consumed her before. As touched the bite marks on his neck, feeling the two small punctures that were already beginning to heal and close up. "Next time, give me a heads-up so I''m not caught off guard." "I want to eat!" she said. As nced down at the pieces of meat and drinks scattered on the ground beneath them. "Join us by the campfire," he said, gesturing toward the mes. "There''s plenty of food over there." Morganna didn''t reply, but she followed him as he walked back to where Edrik and Karian were waiting. Edrik bowed, respectfully gesturing for her to sit by the fire. Karian stood off to the side, no longer sitting but still keeping a close watch. "Prepare food for me." Morganna said. Edrik bowed again. "As someone who holds the second-highest rank after My Lord, I will dly assist in preparing the finest meal for you, Ms. Morganna." As watched, a bit surprised by how smoothly Edrikmunicated with the Vampire Queen. It seemed that his knack for diplomacy was trulying in handy. Morganna''s harsh tone didn''t faze him, and she appeared content enough not tosh out again. Morganna began eating, and from the way she chewed and the subtle shift in her expression, it was clear she was enjoying the food. A few of the meal packages even had familiar brands¡ªbrands known on New Earth. Does the system simply replicate whatever exists in this world, or do they take these items from the lowernds? Morganna ate with a rxed air, crossing her legs as she sat, her aura of dark and blood energy seeming to pulse with renewed vitality. She looked stronger, moreposed¡ªalmost as if the energy she had lost was gradually returning. He would definitely need to find a better way tomunicate with her. He needed her to defend the Floating Ind, and he''d need her strength for future hunts as well. Then, a sudden thought struck him. In his rush to eat and quench his thirst, he had forgotten about one thing¡ªthere was still a Rank-S ticket left unopened. Realizing this, he quickly turned and headed toward the floating, red-glowing ticket. The floatingntern continued to drift around the area, casting spinning shadows that created a unique atmosphere. As As approached the red card, Edrik and Karian moved closer. Morganna, however, seemed uninterested, continuing to eat without sparing a nce in his direction. "My Lord, we''re curious about what lies behind this red card," Edrik said. "We believe you''re destined for something great, especially since you''ve managed to pull these red cards back to back." "Could it be another high-ranking Lord?" Karian mused. As smiled and exined, "So, from the system I have, there are three gacha options I can choose from. First, the Exclusive Character banner, which is how I summoned Morganna, as well as you two. Second, the Exclusive Weapon banner, which features Morganna''s signature scythe." He continued, "And then there''s something like a standard banner, which has five featured characters, but I haven''t tried pulling from it yet." Edrik nodded, smiling. "So, does that mean the potential oue of this item could be Ms. Morganna''s signature scythe, My Lord?" "50% chance," As confirmed. At that moment, Morganna set down her food and nced over at As. She didn''t even try to hide her interest; her crimson red eyes glowed brightly, visible even from a distance. As sighed and picked up the ticket. If this is the Signature Scythe, it''ll make Morganna even stronger, he thought. The ticket ignited, consumed by ck and blood-red mes. From the burning remnants, dark and crimson energy streaked through the air. Then, as if materializing from nothingness, a long, sharp, curved object took shape. [You have received a Rank-S Weapon: (Legendary-grade) Bloodkissed Scythe] Damn! As''s heart skipped a beat. He had actually pulled the featured weapon, Morganna''s signature scythe, with just 20 pulls. A wide grin spread across his face, a rush of euphoria washing over him. This was a huge win. But his moment of triumph didn''tst long. Before they could fully process what had happened, Morganna was suddenly there, standing right between them. ck and red energy coiled around her, wrapping her form like a cloak. Her eyes were sharp, and she reached out toward the scythe that floated in mid-air. "This is my baby!" she dered. *** (Author''s Note:) As is out here making deals, but it looks like Morganna''s got her priorities straight: blood, food, and her beloved weapon. Can''t argue with that! ???¡â??? Now, the real question is, how is this going to change the power dynamic? Leave somements if you want to see where this is going¡ªthere''s plenty more blood and de action toe! Chapter 10 - What the hell happened last night?! "This is my baby!" Morganna shouted, suddenly appearing between As and the others, her hand reaching for the scythe. But As was quick this time, snatching the weapon before she could. Instinctively, he jumped back, his heart racing as her fiery red eyes locked onto him with an unmistakable fury. Can''t this Vampire Queen calm down for just a second?! Morganna, clearly not nning on letting it go, continued to dart toward him, trying to grab the scythe. But As, desperate to keep it away from her, dodged and ran, leaping and evading her over and over again. Karian, watching this unfold, reached for the greatsword, ready to intervene. But just as he was about to charge, Edrik caught his arm. "We need to help the Lord!" Karian urged. Edrik shook his head calmly. "No need... she''s not the enemy." "But she''s attacking him!" Edrik sighed and rolled his eyes. "Are you brainless, Karian? Did you see how she froze earlier when she tried to harm the Lord?" "And so?" "If she''s moving this freely, it means she''s not trying to hurt him." "But still, the Lord is struggling." Edrik leaned in close and whispered, "They''re just... enjoying their little bond." "What?! What are you talking about? Where did you even get that idea?" Edrik sighed again, shaking his head in frustration. "I need a smarter partner, clearly." "The vampires in my world are different. I have no idea what you''re talking about." "Listen, when a Vampire Queen drinks from someone''s neck, especially someone of high status, it''s more than just feeding. It''s a contract¡ªa sign that they''ve submitted their soul to that person." "And?" "Basically, we can say they''re... married." "What? How?" "Not literally married, but bonded¡ªsomething like that. For simplicity''s sake, let''s just call it a marriage." "I don''t understand this ''marriage'' concept you keep talking about, Edrik. In my world, every race only knows how to kill and survive." "That''s why you need to mingle more with people from other worlds," Edrik muttered. "Look, I''ve exined enough. Now, we just watch and see how the Lord deals with his new ''wife.''" "You''re making this up, right? That''s hard to believe."@@novelbin@@ Edrik shrugged. "Believe what you want." As could clearly see that Morganna''s movements weren''t as quick or aggressive as before. Was she tired? She was still trying to take the scythe, but not with the same intensity. "Give the scythe to me!" As quickly stored the scythe in his inventory. In that moment, as Morganna lunged for it, he caught her left hand and gripped it firmly. But As was faster, grabbing her other wrist, now holding both of her hands in a firm but controlled grip. It was a strong hold, though not the kind that someone as powerful as her couldn''t break out of. Yet, she didn''t. "Give me the scythe! That''s my baby!" she growled. "I''ll give it to you," As said calmly, "but only if you agree to sit down and talk about our alliance." "I don''t need you. You''re weak, useless," she hissed, ring at him. "I summoned you, and I summoned your weapon. And this is just the beginning¡ªI can do far more than this." "You''re nothing. You''ll die the moment the first attackes." "No, I won''t." "And where does your confidencee from? Have you lost your mind?" "I won''t die because I have you, Edrik, and Karian." Morganna gritted her teeth, yanking her hands out of his grip. She looked frustrated, and then, with a sharp motion, she extended her hand toward him. "Give me the scythe. That''s mine!" As nodded, reaching into his inventory and materializing the Bloodkissed Scythe in his hand. Morganna wasted no time. She darted forward, snatching the scythe from his grip. As didn''t resist, allowing her to take it. Her expression changed the moment her fingers wrapped around the weapon. She leapt back, spinning the scythe with effortless precision, the de whirling like a deadly propeller. In an instant, she rushed forward, her movements a blur, and before As could react, the sharp edge of the scythe was pressed against his neck. "Don''t expect me to listen to your pathetic words! Consider yourself lucky tonight¡ªI''ll forgive you only because you brought my scythe back to me." With that, the scythe disappeared, vanishing into thin air. Morganna turned sharply, her back to him as she prepared to walk away. "I can upgrade your scythe, and upgrade you too. You just need to listen to me, and we''ll work together to win every battle." Morganna paused for a moment, but after a brief hesitation, she continued walking away, eventually disappearing into the darkness on the other side of the ind. As had no idea what she was up to. Edrik and Karian approached, their expressions... odd. As couldn''t quite ce it, but something seemed off. "My Lord," Karian suddenly spoke up. "I''ve been through something like this before. The early stages are always tough, especially at the beginning of marria¡ª" His words were cut short as Edrik nudged his arm. "My Lord, it''ste," Edrik quickly interjected. "What do you say about getting some rest? Karian and I will keep watch until the fortress construction isplete." As exhaled. It had been exhausting¡ªfalling from that height,nding onto this ind, going through the gacha pulls, and now this intense standoff with Morganna. He really just needed to sleep. "Yeah, I think that''s a good idea," he agreed. He hadn''t realized just how tired he was until now. After all, he hadn''t slept in three days due to the previous expedition. His body was starting to feel like it was on the verge of copsing from sheer exhaustion. "Please let me know if anything urgent happens." "My Lord, we will make sure everything is safe outside while you rest," Edrik reassured him. As nodded, feeling the overwhelming weight of exhaustion finally pulling him under as he headed into his tent. He didn''t remember much after that¡ªsleep took him almost instantly. But then, something stirred him from the deep sleep. He felt a soft breath against his cheek. What is this? he thought, still half-asleep. Fresh air filled his lungs, but it was mingled with a delicate, sweet scent. Ah, he could sense that a lot had happenedst night. Yet, for some reason, his head throbbed, and the memories felt clouded and disjointed. Wait¡ªwas it only a dream? No way¡­ was it? He had the distinct impression that he''d done something, yet he couldn''t quite recall if it was real or dream. And all of it seemed to involve¡­ Morganna. His body felt heavy, unable to move, as if something warm and soft was holding him in ce. Slowly, he became more aware of his surroundings. The warmth pressing against his skin wasn''t just a nket¡ªit was something... His eyes fluttered open, and he saw the soft light of morning seeping through the gaps in the tent. But then, he realized¡ªhe was naked. And someone was wrapped around him. Turning his head cautiously to the right, he froze. Lying next to him was a woman with long, ck hair. Morganna! What the hell happenedst night?! *** (Author''s Note:) Ah, nothing like waking up to a Vampire Queen snuggled up next to you, right? Totally normal stuff. ?? What do you guys think¡ªinnocent cuddles, or something way moreplicated went down? Did As survive the night with all his blood still in his body? Drop your theories in thements below! ???? Chapter 11 - Gacha Haven As stepped out of the tent, still adjusting his clothes and shrouded in a whirlwind of questions. Morganna was still asleep inside. Though they had been under a nket, he had a nagging feeling she was wearing far less than she had before. As for himself? He had beenpletely naked earlier. Just what the hell happenedst night? He checked his neck¡ªno new bite marks. His hands? Normal. No paleness indicating he''d turned into a vampire. His skin was still warm, still human. He even checked his throat and body, feeling more energized than ever. I feel like I could run around this ind a hundred times, he thought, surprised at the surge of energy coursing through him. Then, with a hint of dread, he checked... down there. It''s more... tense than usual¡ªno, it''s normal! It''s just the morning! No! What am I even thinking? He shook his head, trying to dispel the ridiculous thought. That couldn''t have happened! But still¡­ how had he ended up naked? Who had undressed him? Had anything happened between them? He couldn''t remember a thing, and that only made it worse. His frantic thoughts came to a sudden stop when he looked around. The once barren, sandy ground beneath him was now covered in soft, lush grass. What...? He scanned the area and noticed Karian and Edrik in the far end of the ind. What are they doing over there? he wondered, but that wasn''t the most shocking part. Grass, even flowers, had sprouted. He turned his attention toward the spot where the Aqua Crystal had been set up the day before and hurried over, unable to believe what he was seeing. There, where the dry ground had been, a pond had formed, crystal-clear water shimmering in the early morning light.@@novelbin@@ Edrik and Karian approached with smiles on their faces. "My Lord, I hope you had a wonderful night''s sleep," Edrik was the first to speak, his tone light but with a hint of something else. As eyed them both suspiciously. Do they know something about what happened in the tent? "My Lord, I dug around here and made it into a small pond," Karian chimed in. "Yes!" As responded quickly, still feeling a bit off bnce. He crouched down by the pond, scooped some water into his hands, and sshed it on his face. Oh my goodness, he thought, this water is so fresh, so clean. As he enjoyed the refreshing sensation of the water, he noticed Edrik and Karian''s attention had shifted. As followed their gaze and saw Morganna emerging from the tent. She was back in her dress, her face unreadable as she nced in their direction without saying a word. She held a bottle of drink and a snack, making her way over to a camping chair where she sat down, eating and drinking casually, as if nothing had happened. Does she not remember what happenedst night either? As wondered, trying to make sense of the situation. Why isn''t she acting any differently? "My Lord, the fortress," Edrik spoke again, breaking As from his thoughts. As turned his attention to the new structure that he had noticed but hadn''t fully processed until now. The Outpost Fortress¡ªit stood behind the tent, towering over the ind like a symbol of new beginnings. He rose to his feet and took in the sight. The Outpost Fortress was modest yet impressive, with tall stone walls made of smooth, dark-gray stone. A watchtower stood proudly at the center, keeping a watchful eye over the ind. It had a unique ancient medieval design, which felt out of ce in their modern, post-apocalyptic era. But it wasn''t entirely strange¡ªAs knew that as the Fortress progressed through stages, its design would evolve as well. Eventually, it would grow from its medieval roots into something futuristic. As explored the interior of the fortress, stepping into an open space that could serve multiple purposes¡ªperhaps a spot to set up a tent, a training area, or anything else that could be useful, all protected by the fortress''s sturdy walls. Off to one side, he noticed a more developed structure with three floors. He walked into one of the rooms, which was furnished with a few chairs and tables. Another room was mostly empty, except for severalrge chests stacked in the corners. "My Lord, we can store items in those Inventory Chests," Edrik exined. "So, are these connected to the same inventory storage I can ess through the system?" "Correct, My Lord." As continued his tour of the fortress, moving upstairs to a control room on the second floor, and finally, up to the watchtower at the very top. From there, he had a clear view of the entire ind. It was impressive¡ªeverything looked smaller, more manageable from this vantage point, and he could easily keep an eye on the whole ind from up here. "Remarkable," he muttered to himself. But there was one more thing nagging at him. He hadn''t yet checked the notifications he received after waking up this morning. With a slight sense of urgency, As opened the system menu, scrolling back to review what he had skipped earlier in the rush of confusion and curiosity. As scrolled through the notifications. [Congrattions! The Fortress Stage 1 has been sessfully built.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Basic Barracks.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Residential Huts.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Teleportation Pad.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Lumber Mill.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Quarry.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Mana Well.] [You have unlocked a new structure: Training Grounds.] [You have unlocked a new structure: cksmith Workshop.] [..] This is amazing! [New Task: Assign new name for the ind.] [New Task: Design your attires.] [New Task: Design your Emblem.] [..] [You have received 10 Elemental Stones.] [You have received 500 Arcane Shards.] [You have received 500 Gold.] [..] [You have unlocked the Ind Management Feature.] [You can further develop your ind and expand it by fulfilling certain requirements.] [You have unlocked the Resource Detection Scanner.] [The scanner detects nearby resources, including dungeons and unimed floating inds.] As read through the notifications one by one, though it was a lot to take in all at once. Still, he managed to summarize the key points: new structures to build, small tasks like setting up the ind''s name, attire, and emblem, along with some pretty decent bonuses. Arcane Shards? He wasn''t sure what those were exactly yet, and the 500 Gold¡ªhe had no idea how much that would get him. And then there were features like Ind Management, and the Resource Detection Scanner. I''ll have to figure those outter. But first, the most important task: naming the ind. He summoned the system interface and began brainstorming a name, something that rted to the concept of gacha. After some thought, he found the perfect name. [Congrattions! You have named your Floating Ind: Gacha Haven.] He smiled as the notification appeared. Edrik and Karian seemed to notice his satisfaction. And he exined the details to them. "My Lord, that''s a unique name. It directly reflects the distinct nature of our floating ind. I like the idea," Edrikmented. Karian, on the other hand, seemed puzzled. "I''m not familiar with this term... gacha?" Edrik smirked. "Your world must be terribly dull. What kind of ce doesn''t even know what gacha is?" As chuckled. "Don''t worry, you''ll catch on soon enough. But for now, we need to focus. Help me design our attire and the ind emblem." Chapter 13 - Blossom Reaper [You have received 5 Rare XP Orbs] [You have received 5 Elite XP Orbs] [You have received 100 Units of Wood] [You have received 100 Units of Wood] [You have received 100 Units of Stone] [You have received 100 Units of Stone] [You have received 100 Units of Stone] As quickly opened the Rank-B tickets and gathered more materials for building structures, as well as XP Orbs. Interestingly, this time he received higher-grade ones, not just the usual Rare, but Elite-grade. He hadn''t yet tried applying these orbs to any of his subordinates. Maybe after sorting everything out, he''d give it a go. There was so much to do at this early stage, and with this being just the second day, he still had 12 days before the first wave of attacks woulde. Well, I should have enough time, he thought. But that didn''t mean he could afford to rx. His system was an SSS-grade system¡ªthe Ultimate Gacha System. Knowing this was already a huge advantage; the system''s power was undeniable, especially considering how easily he had made progress so far. However, he also knew that every Lord had their own unique system, and who knew what kind of variety and power they had. He couldn''t afford to becent just because he had one of the best systems out there. No, he thought firmly. I need to optimize everything in this short time. As moved on to open the first Rank-A ticket. The ticket spun in the air and burst into mes, and from the ashes, a wooden box appeared, glowing softly with a green light. [You have received Rank-A Item: Everbloom Seed Packet] [A set of seeds that grow into nts. These nts continuously produce fruit, flowers, or herbs, providing an endless supply of food or ingredients for potions. Great for ensuring a steady food supply or magical ingredient production.] Seeds! As nodded to himself, pleased. This was exactly what he needed, especially considering how barren his ind was. Dry, sandy soil as far as the eye could see. Though things had started to improve with grass and flowers sprouting, thanks to items he''d pulled from the Gacha, the ind still had a long way to go. He nced over at his two subordinates standing nearby. Edrik, seemingly reading As''s thoughts, bowed slightly. "My Lord, are those seeds meant for the ind?" "Yes." "That''s surprisingly just what we need. I''d be happy to assist in nting them. I have a bit of experience in gardening." As smirked. "You seem to be good at everything, huh?" "I''m good at doing whatever it takes for my leader." "Take it." As handed him the wooden box. Edrik epted it, bowing slightly before turning away. Karian turned to face As. "My Lord, is there anything I can do? Or should I help Edrik with the gardening?" "No, wait here. I might need your help with something else soon." "Understood, My Lord." As quickly moved on to open the next ticket. The purple-colored ticket spun in the air, glowing green before gently dropping to the floor. As it hit the ground, a magical circle appeared, glowing with energy. Slowly, a figure began to take shape from the green aura. He squinted, trying to make out the details¡ªwas that a woman? The figure fully materialized, revealing a young woman seated in a ''w'' position on the floor. The first thing that caught As''s attention was a pair of white rabbit ears standing tall atop her head. Her short, snowy-white hairplemented her ears. Her outfit was simple yet functional¡ªshorts, sturdy gardening shoes, and a practical top, all covered in traces of dirt and soil, as if she had juste from tending to nts. She blinked a few times before her gazended on As. [You have received Rank-A Character: Mira Springfoot - Blossom Reaper] The girl continued to stare at As, tilting her head in confusion, her wide blue eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Hi," As greeted. "Hi¡­" the girl replied, shing a wide grin. "Oh¡­ I got summoned," she said, giggling. Her giggles grew louder as she looked down, her shoulders shaking with amusement. "Oh my, oh my! I almost thought my life was over, but nope¡ªI got summoned!" She stood up, having to lift her head slightly due to her shorter heightpared to As. "So, you''re the one who summoned me? Hi, nice to meet you! I''m Mira, the genius gardener," she said, giggling again. "Hi, Mira. Nice to meet you too. A gardener, huh?"@@novelbin@@ "Yes!" Mira nodded rapidly. "I work with a hoe and fight using nature. I''m great at taking care of nts, and I also love carrots¡ªuh, you know, rabbits love them, ehe." As nodded slowly, a bit taken aback by her energy. Right after I got the seed package, I summoned a gardener. Perfect timing. But surely she wasn''t just a gardener, right? This girl must have somebat abilities, especially if she had once been a fallen lord in her own world. Curious, As quickly checked Mira''s status. [Name: Mira Springfoot] [Level: 35] [Strength: 123 | Agility: 67 | Intelligence: 87 | Constitution: 45 | Stamina: 98] [Job: Farmer & Rancher] [Garden''s Blessing (S) - Green Thumb (A) - Too Cute to Resist (A) - Charming Negotiator (B) - Perfect Carrot Finder (B) - Hoe Dance (B)] [Garden''s Blessing: Mira gains increased stamina and agility whenever she fights near nts or greenery. Her connection with nature enhances herbat prowess in garden environments.] [Green Thumb: Ability to make nts grow faster and healthier just by tending to them. Crops of these nts mature twice as fast and yield more produce.] As nodded, satisfied. Garden''s Blessing and Green Thumb were exactly the kinds of talents he expected for a gardener like Mira. She''d be invaluable in managing the crops and ensuring the ind''s garden flourished. But it was clear she wasn''t just about nts¡ªherbat abilities were enhanced when surrounded by greenery, making her a capable fighter in the right environment. [Too Cute to Resist: Sometimes, her cuteness overwhelms opponents, causing them to hesitate for a moment. Unfortunately, this has no consistent effect and is more distracting than useful.] As raised an eyebrow. Too Cute to Resist? He frowned slightly. "Not bad, I guess?" It could work as a kind of defense mechanism, catching enemies off guard¡ªthough it didn''t seem reliable. Still, her ability to make opponents hesitate could give her a small edge in tight situations. [Charming Negotiator: Mira has a natural charm and can easily win over others in conversation, making negotiations and social interactions flow smoothly.] Charming Negotiator, on the other hand, was a pleasant surprise. This meant Mira wasn''t just good with nts¡ªshe had a talent for dealing with people as well. This mighte in handy when managing the dynamic between his subordinates. Hopefully Morganna doesn''t feel too intimidated by this overly cheerful girl joining the crew. [Perfect Carrot Finder: Mira has an uncanny ability to find the perfect carrots wherever she goes, though this talent serves no practicalbat advantage.] Perfect Carrot Finder? Well, I guess that''s useful... in very specific situations. [Hoe Dance: Mira''s skill with her hoe allows her to perform a series of quick strikes in rapid session, focusing on weak points. This talent enhances her speed and precision during attacks.] But Hoe Dance? That was something else entirely. "So, she fights with a hoe?" As nodded after taking it all in. "Okay, Mira, wee to the party. This is the early phase of my Floating Ind, and I''ll need your help a lot. We''ve got a desertndscape outside, but with the seeds we have, I''m sure you''ll manage." "Whoa¡­ hahaha¡­ alright!" Mira responded enthusiastically. "Early phase is fun! We can do a lot of exciting things before the battles start," she giggled. Her lighthearted attitude toward the whole "Lords'' battle" intrigued As. He couldn''t help but wonder¡ªwhat rank had she fallen from in her own world? Soon after, Karian apanied Mira outside the Fortress, the bunny girl bouncing along happily beside him. "Hey, you''re so huge! Do you like carrots?" she asked, tilting her head up to look at him. "No, I prefer meat. But I don''t eat rabbits." "Whoa¡­ huh, huh, huh," Miraughed, pretending to be startled. "Good to know, Mr. Dragon Warrior. My body''s mostly human anyway, so don''t get any ideas, okay?" "I said, I don''t like rabbits." "Stop it, Mr. Dragon Warrior, you''re making it sound weird!" sheughed again, her voice filled with joy as they walked further away, their banter fading as they exited the Fortress. As took a deep breath as he prepared to open the next Rank-A ticket. What will it be this time? Another weapon, a character, or perhaps another unique item? *** (Author''s Note:) Don''t be fooled by Mira''s bunny ears¡ªshe''s got some serious skills. A "Hoe Dance" forbat? Yes, please! ???? Plus, those Everbloom seeds and her Green Thumb are exactly what this ind needs to flourish. She''s more than just cute, though¡­ I mean, Too Cute to Resist as abat skill? That could catch someone off guard, right? ?? What do you think: Is Mira going to be an MVP on this team, or is she just here to nt carrots? Comment your thoughts below. Url: /gnteodiscord Chapter 15 - Flame Beacon [You have received Rank-A Blueprint: me Beacon] A scroll materialized in front of As, and he quickly skimmed the description of the item. [A powerful defensive structure that emits waves of fire to repel attackers. The beacon can target both ground and aerial threats.] Ah, me Beacon! Just from the brief description, it was clear this was an incredible asset. Not a finished item, but a Structure Blueprint. It could serve as a key defensive tower on the ind, significantly boosting their defenses against enemy assaults.@@novelbin@@ Intrigued, As read the blueprint''s details more closely. [Effects:] [me Burst: Releases waves of fire in a 30-meter radius, dealing fire damage to all enemies within range. The messt for 5 seconds, burning enemies and reducing their movement speed by 20%.] [Aerial Defense: Targets flying enemies within a 50-meter range, sending fiery projectiles to knock them out of the sky.] Ah, so the tower can target bothnd and aerial enemies. This would be incredibly useful for keeping the ind safe from all kinds of threats. [Requirements: Fortress Stage 1] [Materials:] [150 Stone] [100 Fire Crystals] [30 Iron Ingots] [10 Lava Shards] [5 Magma Core Fragments] As nodded slowly as he scanned the list of materials, noting a few unfamiliar items. Iron Ingots were just the refined version of iron, something they could produce once they had a proper cksmith. So, that problem could be handled easily enough. But Fire Crystals? Lava Shards? Magma Core Fragments? He sighed, realizing there was no clear information on where to obtain those rare materials. Items like these were typically harvested from certain inds or dropped by monsters. Still, it would require more intel to pinpoint exactly where to find them. Of course, there was always the faster route¡ªsearching the marketce. Many Lords sold rare items they had hunted but didn''t need, and this was where the gold he had mighte into y. If he could find the right deals, he could acquire the materials from other yers. "500 Gold?" As thought, wondering if that would be enough to secure the items before the looming attack. Time was running short, and now it was a race against the clock to gather the needed materials. As stood from his chair, which creaked under him as he did so. Morganna gave him a quick nce before turning her head away again. At least the Vampire Queen wasn''t as aggressive as she had been yesterday when she''d suddenly attacked. That was a good sign, especially now that Mira was around¡ªeasily the most fragile-looking among them. And, well... she kind of looked like food. I mean, she is a rabbit, right? This was the first time As had met Beastkin like Mira in person, and he still wasn''t used to it. The most obvious difference was her ears, which sat atop her head rather than on the sides like a regr human''s. "My Lord¡­" Mira called out, waving her hand enthusiastically as she jogged over to him. "I''ve nted a bunch of seeds¡ªflowers, fruits, and trees. The seed box you gave me was amazing! There are so many types there. I''m sure in no time, this ce will be green and beautiful, full of flowers and trees," she said, her face radiating joy. Her over-the-top cheerfulness made As feel just how stiff his own face had be. "I suppose that''s good¡­" he replied, trying to match her enthusiasm. "Yes, My Lord! Once the trees grow, we can harvest them, and the fruits will give us a steady supply of food. Oh, and I nted carrots too, because they''re really good for our health! So make sure to eat your carrots, okay?" she added, her smile impossibly bright. "Ah... yes..." As responded with an awkward grin. Mira tilted her head and shed an even wider smile. Too cute! Cough! As snapped out of his thoughts as Edrik cleared his throat. "My Lord¡­" Edrik said, bringing As back to reality. As looked at Edrik, then back at Mira, who¡ªwithout him realizing¡ªwas holding a hoe. Wait? Was she nning to stab him with that? No way... Was this how her Too Cute to Resist ability worked? She''d charm her target, make them let their guard down, and then... kill them with a hoe? Suddenly, Mira''s sweet smile seemed a little more suspicious. His imagination ran wild for a moment. Noticing As''s confused expression, Mira tilted her head, mirroring his confusion. "My Lord... what''s wrong? Are you tired? Do you need something to drink? Or maybe some food?" "No, it''s fine." "Are you sure My Lord? I''m good at massaging. Would you like to try?" "No, I just needed to discuss something with all of you, that''s why I came over." "Yes!" Mira chirped, shing another one of her dazzling smiles, her eyes practically sparkling with innocence. Damn it! Too cute! As snapped back to reality, his gaze still fixed on the hoe in Mira''s hands. "Hehe, My Lord, why do you keep staring here?" Mira giggled, ncing toward her chest. Oh hell no! As quickly corrected himself, shaking his head. "No, I mean... the hoe. I was just worried you might stab me with that thing while I''m distracted by your cute charm." "Oh, so you think I''m cute, My Lord?" she teased, giggling even more. Enough! Mira! Too cute! Cough! As snapped back to focus, shaking off the distraction and revealing the materials he needed to build the me Beacon. Edrik nodded thoughtfully. "My Lord, firstly, this is great news. A defensive structure like this is rare to obtain so early on. But secondly, about the materials¡ªit''s not impossible to find, but we''ll need to locate where they are." He continued, "We can harvest fire crystals from volcanic areas or magma fields. Defeating magma monsters will give usva shards, and if we defeat the stronger versions of those monsters, we can collect core fragments." "So, you''re saying we need to find an ind with that kind of environment?" "Yes, My Lord. Either a volcanic ind or, potentially, another Lord''s ind with simr terrain. But it would be ideal if we could build this tower before the first attack wave hits," Edrik exined. As nodded, already considering their next move. "My Lord," Karian chimed in. "I think we just need to wait for the Teleportation Pad to finish building. After that, we can explore nearby inds and start hunting for resources." Edrik nodded with Karian''s suggestion. Mira? Still smiling with her half-closed eyes, she nodded repeatedly, almost too enthusiastically. Focus, focus! "Alright, we''ve got plenty of time for that," As said, still looking at Edrik and Karian. "And don''t forget to eat while we still have food stocked in the refrigerator." "Thanks, My Lord!" Mira chirped in response, but As resisted the urge to turn toward her this time. He then made his way back toward the tent where Morganna was lounging. Slowly, he was getting used to her presence¡ªor rather, herck of interest. She barely spoke to him, and honestly, it was easier to pretend she wasn''t even there. Now, another 10 standard tickets... He thought, mentally preparing himself as he tossed them into the air. Rank-S please¡­. [You have obtained 8 Rank-B items and 2 Rank-A items!] *** Author''s Note: Seriously though, who else thinks Mira is secretly way more dangerous than she looks? ?? Chapter 19 - Carved by Fire, Guarded by Stars (Author''s Note:) Find illustrations of each character and monster in thements at the end of the chapter! /gnteodiscord *** As found himself on volcanic terrain, surrounded by charred trees and rivers of moltenva. The heat was intense¡ªnearly unbearable¡ªand for a moment, he half-worried his hair might actually catch fire. Was it a mistake toe here? Karian immediately drew his greatsword, readying himself for battle. Thendscape around them resembled a scorched forest, with sparse, burned trees and activeva flows. It was definitely a hostile environment; As couldn''t help but feel relieved that his own ind wasn''t like this.@@novelbin@@ A distant roar echoed through the air, and suddenly, creatures appeared from all directions¡ªarge pack of dog-like beasts with molten rock skin. [Lava Hound Lv. 56] [Lava Hound Lv. 61] [Lava Hound Lv. 48] As swallowed hard. Aren''t these levels a bit too high? Among his team, only Morganna''s level came close to matching these monsters. He nced over at Morganna. Surprisingly, she sat quietly beside him, resting against his shoulder with an unreadable expression. Wasn''t she avoiding him before? Now she''s leaning on him like this? The Lava Hounds snarled, their molten jaws dripping with heat. But before he could fully process their threat, a loud buzzing sound filled the air, growing closer by the second. From multiple directions, more creatures emerged¡ªa swarm of beetles, huge beetles! Their shells hardened intova-like armor. [Lava Beetle Lv. 48] [Lava Beetle Lv. 53] [Lava Beetle Lv. 49] Despite the oppressive heat, As felt a chill run through him. They were surrounded by hostile monsters, and the odds didn''t look good. This could turn dangerous fast. Karian moved toward the edge, readying himself to jump into the fray. "Karian, are you sure about this?" "My Lord, I can handle it," Karian replied confidently, then leaped down, immediately swarmed by the Lava Hounds from all directions. Before As could react, Edrik jumped down as well. Wait, doesn''t he stillck a weapon? Meanwhile, Lyrassa lifted her hands, casting a skill that wrapped vines around their bodies, blooming with small flowers. So, this must be her healing aura, he thought, already feeling a slight recovery effect. Then, out of nowhere, Morganna leaped down, her scythe materializing in her hand. As stared in shock as she didn''t strike at the monsters but instead kicked Karian, sending him sprawling forward. What the hell is she doing?! "Get out of my way, you idiots! You''re going to get yourselves killed!" Morganna eximed. *** Amidst the clouds, a floating carriage drifted¡ªa crystal carriage with intricate silver and gold engravings. Its transparent canopy and plush blue seats inside lent an air of bothfort and elegance. Inside sat two young women, no, but teen girls, each distinct in her own way¡ªone in blue, the other in red. Luna, dressed in a deep navy-blue gown, stood gracefully, her long silver hair cascading down her back and a crescent moon tattoo adorning her cheek. "Ember, are you sure about what you''re saying? A beastkin¡ªa bunny girl? Stranded on the worst possiblend? That''s heartbreaking. We have to do something, Ember." Ember, d in a red-and-ck asymmetrical outfit with me patterns, raised her crimson sniper rifle and peered into the distance. "See for yourself, Luna¡­" She adjusted her aim. "I can spot her from here¡ªyes, a poor bunny girl, all alone on a barren ind. And I''m certain that floating ind is no more than two days old." Luna, her expression growing more worried, nodded. "Let''s see what we find there, Ember. Because¡­ if what you''re saying is true, then we need to help her. This is far too cruel for a beastkin, as you described." "Yeah, Luna¡­ so far, we''ve saved ten young female Lords in simr situations. At least we''ve given them a fighting chance, and yes, all of them have survived so far. And as the leaders of this alliance, we know exactly what needs to be done." The carriage now hovered closer to the deste floating ind. There was a small fortress in the center of the ind¡ªnot bad¡ªbut what was the girl doing out there? Gardening? Luna stood up, waving her hand toward the ind, though she couldn''t get through the protective shield. "Hi¡­ there!" she called out, raising her voice. The bunny girl, busy tending to her garden, perked up at the sound, her rabbit ears twitching as she looked over at them. Ember suddenly gripped Luna''s arm tightly. "Luna¡­ that girl¡­" She''s too cute! they both whispered in awe. The bunny girl ran over with an excited expression, her eyes bright and innocent as she looked up at them. She waved enthusiastically. "Hi¡­ hello! My name is Mira¡­ hi!" she greeted, her smile pure and cheerful. Luna clutched Ember''s arm, barely able to contain herself. "Ember!" She''s too cute! they both whispered in awe. Luna cleared her throat. "Ehum! hi there," she replied. "My name is Luna. Are you¡­ The Lord?" Mira tilted her head, looking confused before answering cheerfully, "No, not anymore!" Luna and Ember exchanged shocked nces, then turned away to whisper to each other. "Ember, this poor girl¡­ she''s already given up, even before her first battle. She doesn''t even dare to admit she''s the Lord." "Yes, Luna, she''s in such a sad state. We have to lift her spirits!" "She''s all alone andpletely unprepared," Luna murmured. "This world is so cruel for a sweet girl like her." "Yes, and she''s just¡­ gardening. How can we leave her to face this on her own?" They turned back to Mira. "Hey, would you like to be our friend?" Luna called out. "Friend?" Mira''s eyes widened, glowing with wonder, though she soon paused, looking hesitant and thoughtful. Ember leaned over and whispered, "Luna, I don''t think she trusts us yet." "It''s okay, let''s not put any pressure on her," Luna replied gently. She called out again, louder this time. "Hey, Mira! Don''t worry¡ªwe''ll protect your ind. We''ll send materials so you can build it up, and we''ll make sure you get through the first attack safely." Mira''s brows knitted in confusion. "Ah, Luna¡­ no, I mean, this ind is¡­" "Don''t worry about it," Luna assured her. "We''re Rank 2 Scouts. We''re strong, we have plenty of resources, and we don''t expect anything in return. Take care, Mira. We''ll be back soon!" Ember waved as well. "Take care, Mira! See you soon!" As the carriage began to drift away, Mira ran toward the edge, waving desperately. "Wait, wait! I mean¡­ my Lord is just out¡­!" But her words were lost as the carriage floated out of earshot. In the carriage, Luna and Ember both let out a sigh. "We''re an alliance of female Lords, Ember," Luna said. "We can''t just leave a cute girl like Mira to suffer." "Agreed, Luna. Luckily, we found her in time," Ember replied, nodding. "Now we can step in before anything bad happens." Chapter 21 - Fang of Infernos As sat in stunned silence, the warmth of Lyrassa''s soft kiss lingering on his cheek. It was soothing,forting, as if his entire body felt lighter and the fog in his mind began to lift. He was truly speechless, caught off guard by her unexpected gesture, yet he also felt his body rxing and his thoughts growing clearer and sharper, as if she''d breathed calm into him. After a few moments, Lyrassa slowly drew back, settling beside him with that same serene smile and calm gaze. "What¡­ was that?" he asked softly. Lyrassa giggled, covering her lips with her fingers before answering, "That was my blessing, My Lord." "Blessing?" "For us spirits, it means love¡­ and caring." "Love?" As repeated, still processing the meaning of everything she had said. He was beginning to understand that every race¡ªand even every world¡ªhad its own unique perspectives and rules that he might not yetprehend. It was a lesson he''d been absorbing ever since meeting his new subordinates. "Yes, My Lord¡­ it''s a sign of my love for you." As paused, taking in her words. "Could you tell me more about what this means to you, Lyrassa?" Lyrassa nodded. "For us spirits, a bond formed with a human is sacred¡­ deep. It''s like a connection of soul and life itself. The kiss I gave you¡­ shows that¡­" She hesitated, meeting As''s gaze fully. At that moment, As felt a strong, direct connection in her eyes, as though they were locked into each other''s gaze. "For us spirits, My Lord¡­ this kind of bond means I have given you my soul, my life, my everything," she continued softly. "That''s¡­ a heavy reality," As replied. "But isn''t it true that all those summoned by a Lord share a simr fate?" Lyrassa shook her head gently. "No, My Lord. It means more than that¡­ for us¡­" As snapped to attention, his instincts ring as he sensed something massive hurtling toward him! He turned, but it was already too close¡ªa Lava Hound, lunging straight at him. The beast was about to deal a devastating blow, too quick for him to block. But in an instant, vines shot out, forming a around the Lava Hound and binding it mid-air. The vines smoldered slightly under the heat, but regenerated almost immediately, tightening their hold until the beast crashed to the ground. Lyrassa had reacted just in time! As, still shaken, looked down to see Karian kneeling. "My Lord, forgive my carelessness. You may punish me as you see fit." Karian? Lyrassa cast her protective spells over the others, while As kept his gaze fixed on Morganna. Right¡ªthis wasn''t exactly the moment for conversation. Something sparked in his memory¡ªan idea he wanted to test right away, rted to the Exp Orbs he''d acquired from the Gacha. How many did he have again? 15 Rare Exp Orbs and 20 Elite Exp Orbs.@@novelbin@@ Technically, he could use these on his subordinates, but he could also keep them for himself. The only downside was that, even if someone had an endless supply of Exp Orbs, they were limited in how high they could level up within each of the Lord ranks. The Lord ranks followed a structured progression system, determining who would face off against opponents ofparable standing. Since As was still in the early stages, he began at Rank 1, Division 1, also known as the Seeker rank. Officially, this ced him as a Seeker Div 1. There are 9 known Ranks, and Each rank has 5 divisions. The ranks followed this order: Rank 1 - Seeker Rank 2 - Scout Rank 3 - Pathfinder Rank 4 - Sentinel Rank 5 - Guardian Rank 6 - Marshal Rank 7 - Champion Rank 8 - Overlord Rank 9 - Immortal Since As was still a Seeker, he could only use the Exp Orbs up to level 50. But, with his current level still at 36, he had plenty of room to use those Exp Orbs for himself. [Exp: 1,439/13,505] He checked his own XP progress and saw he still had a long way to go before reaching level 37. [You used a Rare Exp Orb and gained 1,000 XP!] Whoa¡­ a thousand Exp all at once. That felt pretty amazing. [You used an Elite Exp Orb and gained 4,000 XP!] And the Elite ones gave even more XP than the Rare. Since he could always get more from the Gacha pulls, why not just use them all? Without hesitation, As used all fifteen of his Rare Exp Orbs. [You have leveled up] [Level 37] [Exp: 6,934/20,258] In that instant, he''d gained a full level. He couldn''t help but grin at how easy it was. No wonder so many people were eager to join the ranks of the Lords¡ªleveling up with a Lord''s privileges could be this fast and effortless. Fueled by a hint of greed, As decided to go all-in and use every single Exp Orb he had. [You used an Elite Exp Orb and gained 4,000 Exp!] [You used an Elite Exp Orb and gained 4,000 Exp!] [..] [You have level up] [Level 39] [Exp: 32,289/45,581] He leveled up again! This time, he''d even reached level 39. Damn! If only he could get more Exp Orbs¡ªhe could upgrade himself further. And, well... Mira''s level was still pretty low too, only at level 35, while Edrik had already hit level 50. He could use Exp Orbs for both himself and Mira, aiming to get them both to level 50 before the first battle arrived. And, with all the Gacha Tickets he still had, he could pull for more amazing items and keep this momentum going. One of the biggest tasks remaining for As was actually refining his set of talents. Sure, he only had onebat talent right now, but as a Lord, he was quickly realizing how crucial other talents were bing¡ªlike Tactical Awareness and Instinctual Command. There had to be items in the Gacha pull rted to talents, like ones that could upgrade the rating of existing talents or even unlock entirely new ones. He definitely needed to enhance what he already had and unlock new talents that would no doubte in handy. But, of course, this wasn''t the ce to go all out on a Gacha pull¡ªnot with monsters closing in from all sides. [Your Subordinate has killed Lava Hound Lv. 54] [You received 352 Exp] [Exp: 32,641/45,581] [You have obtained (Elite-grade) Fang of Infernos Lv. 54] [A spear forged from the fiery fang of a Lava Hound. The spear''s tip is infused with molten energy, emitting a faint glow and heat that sears through armor.] As''s attention was suddenly snagged by a notification that immediately piqued his interest. Just then, a glowing blue orb shot through the air and embedded itself into his chest, transferring directly into his Inventory. "Damn, finally, an Elite-grade Spear?!" His curiosity red, and he quickly summoned the spear, eager to check its stats and description. Chapter 25 - Nightfall Sentinel Set [You have received 5 Elite Exp Orbs] [You have received 1 Basic Survival Kit] [You have received 1 Field Cooking Set] [You have received 1 Basic Pickaxe] [You have received 10 Small Healing Potion] [You have received 20 Units of Iron Ingots] As quickly opened the six Rank-B tickets, scanning through the new items. There was a Basic Survival Kit¡ªthough not exactly new, since he''d gotten one before. It was a bag stocked with a few small tools and a tent. Not bad; an item like this could still be useful if they were ever far from the Floating Ind and needed a temporary shelter. Next, a Field Cooking Set. Definitely useful for any expeditions far from base, allowing them to cook proper meals on the go. Then, Small Healing Potions. Even with a skilled healer like Lyrassa on the team, it would be helpful as an emergency backup when she was exhausted or low on Mana. Lastly, he found a Basic Pickaxe. As couldn''t help but sigh at this one. Hardly anyone used basic pickaxes for mining anymore¡ªit was probably the least useful item in the pull. Next up was the Rank-A item. The purple-glowing ticket transformed into a solid ck box. What could it be? [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Soulbinding Armor Set] [Armor that adapts to the user''s abilities, enhancing defense without restricting movement. Use: Ideal for frontline warriors, providing flexibility in battle.] An armor set? As took hold of the ck box, feeling its solid weight. How was he supposed to activate it? [Once activated, it will be Soulbinding Armor, adapting to the user with a fitting armor design.] Perfect for melee fighters and frontliners¡ªideal for him, who hadn''t yet acquired a proper set of armor. He decided to im it for himself.@@novelbin@@ [Activating the Soulbinding Armor Set] [Adapting Armor Set to User] [You have obtained: Nightfall Sentinel Armor Set] [Grade: Epic] [Skills:] [Lancer''s Endurance (Passive): Increases the wearer''s stamina and reduces stamina consumption when wielding a spear, enabling longer battles without fatigue.] [Swift Piercer (Active): Temporarily boosts movement speed and agility by 20%, allowing for quicker spear thrusts and evasive maneuvers.] [Spear Dance Resilience (Passive): Reduces iing damage by 10% when performing rapid spearbos, providing extra durability during offensive y.] As stood, drawing everyone''s gaze. A sleek, semi-light armor enveloped him¡ªa striking blend of ck and deep blue. Reinforced tes guarded his chest and shoulders, while the streamlined design along his arms and legs allowed for optimal agility. Intricate engravings on the chest te, highlighted with vibrant blue ents, pulsed with a soft, glowing energy. He admired the look, noting how the armor made him appear¡­ well, damn formidable. [Host, this armor set includes a ''Veil Mode'' feature. You can render it invisible while still enjoying its full protection.] "Then activate the Veil Mode," he replied. In a blink, the armor vanished, leaving only a faint blue energy shimmer whenever he moved. Practical¡ªhe didn''t have to appear as though he was wearing heavy armor and could stick to his usual casual attire while remaining fully protected. And when it came to battle, he could make the armor visible again to intimidate his opponents. "You''re slowly transforming into a more dependable Lord, My Lord," Edrik said, nodding. "That''s certainly an impressive armor set. May I ask the grade?" "It''s an Epic-grade," As replied, smiling. "Probably valuable enough to fund the entire ind if we sold it¡ªbut it''s soulbound, so it''s mine permanently." "Your protection will alwayse first, My Lord. We''ll find ways to earn gold otherwise," Edrik said firmly. "Agreed, My Lord," added Karian. As was genuinely thrilled with this pull. An incredible rank-A item! A soulbound armor set just for him. Most awakeners could only dream of possessing something like this, and he''d just scored it by tossing tickets into the air. Incredible. Now he''d be able to fight with greater endurance and protection¡ªhe definitely intended to make the most of it. Excited, he moved on to the next Rank-A ticket. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Stormcaller''s Amulet] [An amulet that allows the user to call down lightning strikes, primarily used in defensive strategies. Use: Adds a powerful option for ind defense, particrly effective during raids.] An amulet to summon lightning strikes? The amulet itself was crafted in ornate silver, with engravings resembling swirling clouds. At its center, a faint blue electric pulse shimmered, giving the impression of a storm ready to be unleashed. He briefly wondered if the person casting it might be at risk of getting hit themselves. Either way, he now had an impressive new option for offensive capabilities. A high-level mage could likely wield such a skill with more precision, but he assumed it would take someone truly powerful to achieve the devastating effects he imagined. Satisfied, he stored the item away¡ªit would definitelye in handy when the time came. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Shadow Step Cloak] [A cloak that grants limited invisibility, ideal for infiltrating enemy lines. Use: Useful for scouts or assassins performing reconnaissance or sabotage.] As equipped the cloak, mentally activating its effect. He watched as his body became translucent¡ªnot fully invisible, but enough to make him difficult to spot when blending into the environment or in low light. Still, this item would be far better suited to someone specialized for stealth. He took off the cloak and handed it to Edrik. "I know this wille in handy for you. Take it." Edrik smiled and bowed slightly. "My Lord, thank you for this precious gift. I''ll be able to make even better use of it if I canbine it with my signature dagger." "Really? Then here''s hoping luck finds you, Edrik," As replied, grinning. As moved on to the final Rank-A Ticket. [You have received a Rank-A weapon: (Epic-grade) Obsidian Talon Dagger] A dagger materialized before him, its de a ckened steel with an obsidian-like finish. Dark leather wrapped around the hilt, and small embedded shards of blue crystal pulsed with a faint glow. Perfectly crafted, it seemed almost as if it had been made for stealth and precision. [Obsidian Talon Dagger] [Grade: Epic] [Strength +50 Agility +100 Movement Speed +10%] [Skills:] [Shadow Step (Active): Effect: Allows the User to teleport a short distance, leaving behind a shadowy afterimage.] [Silent Strike (Conditional Passive): Deals extra damage when attacking from behind, enhancing critical hit rate by 20%.] As grinned as he read the item description. It seemed luck was definitely on Edrik''s side today, as this was clearly his Signature Weapon. "Happy now?" As asked, handing him the weapon. "My Lord, it''s surely your luck at work. I''m just following along with this amazing fortune of yours," Edrik replied with a smirk. With his new invisibility cloak and the Silent Strike ability, Edrik could now deliver devastating blows to his enemies. Coupled with the Shadow Step cloak, his agility would be even greater. Now both his frontline fighters were well-equipped. Only Lyrassa and, perhaps, Mira remained, both of whom could be invaluable in emergencies if they were forced intobat. Another pull? Could he dare hope for another Rank-S item? Being a bit hopeful couldn''t hurt, could it? He tossed the tickets into the air, and his eyes widened as not one but two purple tickets appeared, shimmering in the air. *** (Author''s Note:) Our boy''s turning into an absolute powerhouse, and his team''s getting upgrades left and right. With his fighters decked out in Epic gear, the next enemy wave better watch out! But those two purple tickets at the end¡­ anyone else have a feeling about what they''ll be? ?? Drop your guesses in thements. Chapter 27 - City Lights and Unexpected Power-Up As rose from his throne, then raised his hands as he stepped down onto the desert floor. "My name is As," he began, "a newly awakened Lord. I''vee to this city to stock up on equipment and resources." "Do you have your Awakener Device with you?" one of the Saharan soldiers asked, weapons raised and pointed at them. It was Mana-Infused Railguns, advanced firearms powered by Mana Cores. "I lost it," As replied calmly. "I need to verify my identity and get a new one." "Where are you from?" "Indo-Pacific Union." In truth, Lords were no longer bound to the Unions they''de from; that was the internationalw of the Lower Lands. Each Lord''s responsibilities nowy in the battles for their floating inds. Still, their ties to the Lower Lands ran deep, and the connection was mutually beneficial. The Lower Lands provided Lords with awakened recruits and essential supplies, which allowed them to grow stronger. In return, some of these awakeners would eventuallye back to aid the Lower Lands in their own battles and crises. Higher-ranking Lords, however, rarely concerned themselves much with the Lower Lands. Their focus was on building their inds, often far more advanced and luxurious than anything in the Lower Lands could offer. "We will verify your identity," one soldier stated. "And what about them?" he asked, ncing at those still standing on the floating throne. "They are my summons. They do not belong to this world." The soldier gave a slight nod, seeming satisfied with the answer. Momentster, several Dune Phantoms approached, their weapons trained on As and his group from a safe distance. One soldier dismounted and stepped forward. Anticipating a scan, As pulled down his hood, revealing his face.@@novelbin@@ The soldier raised a scanning device, and with a quick beep, checked the readout. "As ckthorn. You were reported dead¡­ three days ago." "That''s exactly when I awakened as a new Lord." The soldier, clearly the leader of the group, nodded in acknowledgment. "I''ll arrange for your new Awakener Device. How long do you intend to stay here?" "Not long, two or three days, maybe up to a week at most." "I''ll authorize a seven-day stay," the soldier replied, then addressed As'' team. "They will each receive a monitoring bracelet. That''s the standard protocol for any visiting Lord and their subordinates." As nodded. "Understood." "I''ll also send you a list of permitted and prohibited actions within the city," the soldier continued. "Break any of these regtions, and you will be removed immediately." "Understood." A short whileter, the leader returned, holding out the new Awakener Device and requesting that As infuse it with his Mana. This step would finalize his identification and officially register him in the system. As ced his hand on the card-like device, letting his Mana flow through it. The device activated with a soft glow, confirming his identity. The soldier then spoke up. "Allow us to ce the monitoring bracelets on each of your subordinates." "Let me help," As offered, wary that any idental contact, especially with Morganna, might cause trouble. Apanied by one of the soldiers, As approached the others. "Edrik, Karian, Lyrassa¡ªtake this," he instructed, handing each of them a bracelet. "Morganna," he said, offering her one as well. She took it withoutment, following the others in strapping it onto her left wrist. There was a brief mechanical click, a faint light flickered from the bracelet, then it settled back into silence, fully activated. Once everything was settled, As turned back to the soldier. "All registration isplete," the soldier said. "The Saharan Army will escort you out if you haven''t left by the end of your permitted visit." "What about entrance fees or anything else?" "No, that''s all free. You''re wee to visit and leave freely, as long as you follow the rules. You''ll also receive a wee credit of 20,000 UGD." "20k UGD? That''s generous." "This is how we treat Lords visiting our city." It seemed the rumors about the Saharan Empire''s weing approach to visitors and Lords were true. They didn''t exploit neers at will. Instead, they maintained a respectful protocol, offering resources and support without taking advantage. "We can arrange a tour guide if you need one, or you can simply head to the Awakener Association Center for more information," the soldier added. "I''ll find more info through this device," As replied, holding up his new Awakener Device. "Good to hear. Enjoy your visit," the soldier said. As dismissed his Floating Throne, and with the others following, they were directed toward the massive city wall. Passing through a long corridor, they walked for a few minutes until the fresh air touched their faces and a warm, weing light greeted them. The hum of voices and distant sounds of city life grew louder. As they stepped into the heart of the city, the sight was strikingly different. This was an advanced, developed metropolis. Hover vehicles moved smoothly along, robots strolled along the sidewalks, and street lights illuminated the area, casting a glow overrge holographic billboards disyed on nearby buildings. Edrik walked beside him. "This city is very weing to outsiders. They didn''t make it difficult for us to enter." "Yes, they do seem a bit too good to be true. But their reputation is the best in the New World." As and the others had already switched into more rxed attire, thanks to the system''s built-in wardrobe options. It was impressively convenient; with a single thought, they could change outfits instantly. As nced around, taking in Morganna and Lyrassa''s looks. Morganna wore a sleek, executive-style jacket paired with a fitted ensemble. Lyrassa, on the other hand, opted for a short skirt, giving her a polished yet daring vibe. Lyrassa''s natural allure¡ªbarely softened by the vines wrapped loosely around her¡ªwas sure to draw a few stares. Fortunately, the system had supplied them with just the right attire options for moments like this. As took the lead, guiding them through the bustling city streets toward their first destination: a hotel. He was eager to experience the luxury amodations of this city he''d long imagined visiting. Now that he had the chance, he intended to make the most of it. Approaching a high-end hotel, he noted the steep prices but decided it was worth it, especially since he had enough funds. At the counter, he booked arge suite with multiple bedrooms. He''d chosen this setup specifically to keep everyone close, making it easier tomunicate with his subordinates. Although the ideal five-room suite was already booked, he managed to reserve a six-bedroom option. They made their way to the grand elevator, its transparent ss walls providing a view of the hotel''svish lobby,plete with cascading waterfalls, lush gardens, and severalplimentary public amenities. As couldn''t help but notice Karian ncing around, clearly taking in the surroundings with an air of curiosity. "New for you, Karian?" Karian nodded. "In my world, there was only ruin and constant struggle. This kind of setting¡­ it''s very new for my eyes, and pretty intriguing." As guessed that Edrik came from a world more simr to his own. Edrik seemed to understand the concept of Gacha and had mentioned some advanced technology, so he was likely used to simr things. As chuckled, then looked over at Lyrassa. "What about you?" "My Lord, I''m more used to living in harmony with nature, so this environment is new for me too," she replied. "Though I''ve encountered Lords who used simr technology." From Lyrassa''s description, it sounded like she, too, had lived in a world with technology but had stayed primarily within her own natural environment. As nced over at Morganna, who quickly looked away, pretending not to notice. Once they arrived at their suite, everyone picked their own room, including As. But just as he stepped inside, his heart suddenly started pounding, a surge of energy coursing through him, sharp and unexpected. [The bond you''ve created with Morganna has now fully formed.] [You share a highpatibility, enabling you to inherit some of her skills and talents through this connection.] [A powerful bond with Morganna has been established.] [New skills have been unlocked.] [Talent upgrades have been applied.] [Your blood has undergone modifications as part of the bonding process.] "What? What''s happening?" As murmured, startled as a cascade of notifications lit up before his eyes. [You have unlocked a new skill ¡­] Chapter 29 - Legends of Other Worlds As needed to visit the Awakener Association Center. It was the ce that provided general information for awakeners, including details on Dungeons, Marketce listings, Auctions, and avable mercenary awakeners. Conveniently, it was also near the Guild Center, it was a central hub for organized Awakener Guilds. He had ns to hold one-on-one conversations with each of his subordinates and decided to start with Karian. So he invited Karian to follow him. Just as he and Karian were about to head out, someone called his name. As turned to see Lyrassa approaching, her usual warm smile lighting up her face. "My Lord¡­ may I join you both?" Lyrassa asked politely. "Yes¡­ of course. Come along," he replied, then raised an eyebrow. "But you can walk faster, can''t you?" "Uh¡­" Lyrassa nodded quickly. "Yes, My Lord. I can." As stepped out, with Karian walking at his left side. Lyrassa joined on his right, and, surprisingly, she kept up with an impressive speed he hadn''t expected. Something felt off, though. As paused, prompting Karian and Lyrassa to stop as well. Lyrassa looked at him, a bit puzzled. He nced down and realized she wasn''t walking at all, she was hovering a few inches above the ground, which made her appear slightly taller. "Can you manage that speed while actually walking?" She smiled, nodding. "Yes, My Lord, I can." They continued on their way, with As adjusting his pace to a more rxed speed.@@novelbin@@ "Tell me, Lyrassa, would you mind if I asked about your past¡­ I mean, before you were summoned by me?" "No, I don''t mind," she replied in her gentle voice. "I want to get to know you both better," As continued. "I know you''ve faced simr challenges to what I''m up against now. This is all new to me, and I believe there''s a lot I can learn from your experiences." Lyrassa nodded thoughtfully. "I once had a floating ind, much like ours... and I protected it for... 500 years." As was taken aback, casting her a surprised nce as they stepped into the elevator. Five hundred years? "I was a Rank 7 - Champion, before tragedy befell my ind, my Lord." "Champion?!" As recalled Edrik''s spection that Morganna might have been at least an Overlord, Rank 8, in her previous world. If the System ssified Morganna as an Exclusive Rank-S Character and Lyrassa as a Standard Rank-S, then Edrik''s theory held weight. "Protecting a floating ind and surviving countless battles for 500 years." As repeated, still trying to wrap his mind around everything this Nature Spirit had endured. "The people I was meant to protect¡­ they perished¡­" Lyrassa''s voice grew softer. "Did you lose to another Lord, Lyrassa?" Lyrassa shook her head. "I won my battles by defending my ind. I grew my ind from the rewards the system granted me," she exined. "But one day, an Arcane-grade Beast attacked my ind." "Arcane-grade?!" Karian interjected. Lyrassa nodded slowly. "Wait, an Arcane-grade beast?" As echoed in surprise. "So far, we''ve only encountered up to Legendary-grade beasts here: Common, Rare, Elite, Epic, Unique, and Legendary." He paused, putting the pieces together. "Legendary is the highest we''ve seen so far. There''s one grade above that, Mythic. But it''s just a rank on paper; no one''s actually encountered one here." He added. "But Arcane-grade beast?" Karian spoke up, "Arcane-grade is actually above Mythic-grade, As." As paused, letting that sink in. "An Arcane-grade Beast attacked your ind, and that''s how you lost it?" "Yes, My Lord," Lyrassa replied. As tried to imagine just how powerful an Arcane-grade Beast would have to be. Karian added, "The highest-ranked beast I ever faced was Mythic-grade. Even then, nearly half my army was wiped out." "Did you win in the end?" "With all the sacrifices¡­ it was both a victory and a loss." As nodded thoughtfully. "And what rank were you before being summoned here?" "I was a Rank 6 - Marshal. Just one rank below Lyrassa." "And Edrik?" "Edrik held Rank 5 - Guardian," Karian said. "And Mira was Rank 3 - Pathfinder." Morganna: at least Rank 8 - Overlord. Lyrassa: Rank 7 - Champion. Karian: Rank 6 - Marshal. Edrik: Rank 5 - Guardian. Mira: Rank 3 - Pathfinder. As nodded slowly, piecing together everything he''d learned. It seemed that Standard Rank-S characters likely held ranks around Overlord. Rank-A characters, then, probably fell somewhere between Rank 3 and Rank 6. As for Exclusive Rank-S characters like Morganna, they might be at least Overlord, or possibly even higher. He still didn''t fully grasp the power scaling between each rank, but one thing was clear: on New Earth, Lords only went up to Rank 6 - Marshal, which had been Karian''s rank before his summoning. So right now, Karian''s experience ced him on par with the highest possible rank on New Earth. Meanwhile, Lyrassa and Morganna existed at levels beyond anything even attainable here. As sighed, a sense of awe settling over him as he realized just how vast this world truly was, and beyond it, who knew how many other worldsy out there. They had the knowledge, the experience. They''d only lost a portion of their original strength. He could hardly imagine just how desperate their situations must have been. Defeated, stripped of their full power, and then summoned to serve another Lord, a new awakened Lord! Still, maybe this was also a second chance for them. "If someday we could visit your original worlds," As asked, "would it be possible to meet anyone you once knew there? Or even¡­ avenge your losses?" Karian considered this. "This world is still far from reaching that level. But anything is possible, so¡­ yes." "The Arcane-grade beast that destroyed my people¡­" Lyrassa murmured. "It will surely bring ruin not just to my original world, but perhaps to every world it encounters." As''s expression grew serious. "Those high-grade beasts would destroy this world too, if they arrived before the Lords were ready, wouldn''t they?" "That''s exactly what happened to my world, My Lord," Lyrassa said. As nodded thoughtfully. "And have you ever known someone at Overlord rank before? Just how powerful are they?" Karian''s expression grew serious. "Someone at Overlord rank is a being who has managed to im their entire world, in every sense." "The whole world? The entire?" "Yes," Karian confirmed. "Their battles unfold between worlds, leaving great destruction and massive devastation in their wake." "So, you''re saying Morganna could actually be that powerful?" As asked. "Is that why Edrik said she was likely on the level of a god?" Karian nodded. "Exactly. For someone at that level, power is nearly limitless, and the cost of wielding it is just as high." As then delved deeper into the nature of the Lord Battles, eagerly absorbing the insights Karian and Lyrassa shared. Through their stories, he learned that, despite her youthful appearance, Lyrassa was actually several centuries old. Karian, by contrast, had been around 150 years old at the time of his final defeat. Their extended lifespans alone spoke volumes about the vast experiences they had endured. Hearing all this, Edrik''s remark about New Earth still being in its infancy made even more sense; other worlds had already advanced through tens of thousands of years of progress and battles. Finally, they arrived at the Awakener Association Center. "All right," As thought. "Let''s settle everything here first, then back to building my ind!" Chapter 32 - The Shadowed Fang "If you can summon subordinates so easily, why bother recruiting? Just summon everything you need!" "Yeah, admit it. You''re getting backup from higher-ranking Lords." "And where did youe from, anyway? You don''t look like you''re from around here." "A Lord with only onebat talent? Useless!" "Tell us about your power! Only then will we trust your ridiculous im." "Show us, right here in front of us!" People continued to voice their frustration and skepticism, throwing challenge after challenge at As. But he calmly responded to each one, his expression steady and unbothered. Sitting beside Edrik, Karian leaned over andmented, "Edrik, don''t you think As needs to be a bit humble in this presentation?" Edrik gave a slight smile, shaking his head. "This whole Lords'' game is built for struggle and battle. He can''t afford to be humble." "Why not?" "He only has one chance, and he''s using every tool he has to make the most of it. He might even demonstrate his abilities right here in front of them." "What if those who don''t like him decide to turn on him?" "This is a safe zone. He''s protected here. Besides, we have an Overlord among us. His confidence isn''t without reason. In fact, I admire his approach. It''s exactly the kind of daring we need from him. And no, he''s not making this up. He''s calcted and knows what he''s doing." Karian nodded thoughtfully at Edrik''s words. As answered their questions one by one. "To build a great ind, I need a variety of talents. I''m starting with those who are willing to join me at this early stage. Those who will benefit most as the ind progresses and grows." He continued, "Where Ie from isn''t important. Lords aren''t bound by Unions or directly tied to the lowernds." "Yes, I have just onebat talent, Spear talent. But I also have Iron Will, Tactical Awareness, Instinctual Command, Reliable Aura, and an S-rated talent I recently acquired. This is only the beginning. There''s room for much more." The crowd began to fall silent, taking in his exnation. Those talents¡­ they understood their significance. These were the kinds of talents that could shape a Lord''s destiny, marking him as a natural leader meant to inspire andmand. As stepped down from the stage, moving toward them with steady, confident strides. His charisma radiated a calm authority, aplete, unshakable confidence that few could achieve. Even Edrik couldn''t help but feel that he himselfcked this level of self-assurance. "Have any of you ever yed gacha games?" he asked, breaking the tension with an unexpected question. A few of them looked puzzled. "Ever y gacha games?" he asked, nodding to someone nearby. "Yeah, sometimes," someone beside him replied. "And you?" he turned to another. "Yes¡­ I spend most of my paycheck on gacha games," the man admitted, slightly embarrassed. "Anyone else?" As looked around. A few more hands went up, and soon others raised their hands, perhaps out of curiosity. As smiled, reading the crowd. He turned, walked back to the stage, and then summoned 10 standard tickets into his hands, letting them shimmer in his hand as he faced the audience again. "I have a Gacha System. Just like the games you''ve yed. But real. And this is how I acquired so many powerful individuals in this early stage." A murmur of astonishment rippled through the crowd, some of them leaning in, eager to know more about this interesting system. "I can summon people, artifacts, and extraordinary items. And this," he gestured to the tickets, "is just a fraction of the summons I''m able to perform." Edrik gave a faint smile and murmured to Karian, "I feel like giving him a round of apuse for this." "Yeah, this is bold," Karian replied, shaking his head slightly. "But he''s doing it in just the right way," Edrik continued. "Look, we''re not amateurs here. We were experienced Lords once. He''s giving us the kind of challenge we deserve." Karian nodded firmly. "Exactly. I crave challenges and epic battles. Just hearing him talk is getting me fired up." "He''s definitely the kind of Lord we can rely on. Gotta say, I love him," Edrik said. Karian shot him a look. "No homo," Edrik added. As tossed the tickets into the air, watching as they slowly began to change color¡ªbrown, brown, brown, brown. He kept a calm smile, hoping for something impressive to disy in front of the crowd. If not, he was prepared to go through 40 or 50 tickets if needed, determined to summon at least a powerful weapon or an impressive ally. Brown, brown. No purple? No Red?! Go Red! Then, atst, the final ticket shifted to purple. [You have obtained 9 Rank-B items and 1 Rank-A item!] As could hear the murmurs from the crowd as they watched. "That''s pretty cool¡ªwhat does a purple ticket mean?" "Is it like the usual gacha game rules?" As smiled at their curiosity. "Well, this is actually the worst result so far. 9 Rank-B and 1 Rank-A." He shrugged. "Let''s open them up one by one and see what we''ve got." [You have received 1 Rare Mana Surge Skill Scroll] As grabbed the skill scroll that materialized and held it up for everyone to see. "A Rare-grade Mana Surge skill. I''ll be giving this to any mage who joins my team," he announced. [You have received 5 Elite Exp Orbs] He took five Elite Exp Orbs from the air, holding them up with a knowing smile, aware that everyone recognized their value. [You have received 1 Rare Illusionary Mirage Skill Scroll] "Another skill for a mage," hemented, showing the scroll to the crowd. [You have received 10 Small Healing Potions] "Not bad. Healing Potions," he said, storing them with a nod. [You have received 1 Rare Poisoned de Skill Scroll] "Well, this is probably the most skill scrolls I''ve ever pulled at once," he said. "This one''s for any thief-ss awakeners interested." [You have received 100 Units of Wood] [You have received 20 Units of Lumber] [You have received 5 Elite Exp Orbs] [You have received 20 Units of Iron Ingots] "Well, materials and a few more Exp Orbs," he concluded. Everyone was still focused on the Rank-A ticket As had pulled, and he could feel the growing anticipation in the room. Some people even stood up, trying to get a better view of this rare gacha moment. As took a slow breath and reached out to touch the purple ticket floating before him. Please, let this show them something extraordinary! The ticket hovered in the air for a tense moment, unresponsive. Everyone seemed to hold their breath. Then, suddenly, it began to tear, as if sliced by invisible des. Once, then repeatedly¡ªuntil it was reduced to tiny fragments that drifted to the floor. From these fragments, a magical circle red to life on the ground, and slowly, a shadowy figure began to form in front of As. What is that? he thought, as the figure, cloaked in shadows, took shape, its true form still hidden. The entire room was captivated. They were witnessing a summoning unfold right before their eyes. The figure suddenly split, creating duplicates that scattered and sprinted to every corner of the room, moving as silent, shadowy blurs. The audience, caughtpletely off guard, froze in ce, their eyes wide and fixed on the shadows darting around them. "Wait, what is that?" "Careful! Attack iing!" someone shouted, panics rising in the crowd. One of the shadowy forms sped toward them with rming speed. Instinctively, people raised their arms to shield themselves, but just before impact, the shadow dissipated into thin air. One by one, the shadowy figures vanished, leaving only a single form standing in front of As. Slowly, it solidified, revealing its true shape¡­ a beastkin.@@novelbin@@ An elder¡­ rat? His gray, weathered fur hinted at countless years of experience. An eyepatch covered his right eye, while his left remained sharp and steady, exuding a calm yet piercing gaze. He was dressed in traditional ninja attire, ented by subtle pieces of armor. The elder beastkin lowered himself into a deep bow. "My Lord," he spoke in a low, steady voice, "I am Kurogasa, the Shadowed Fang. I thank you for the honor of summoning me. From this day forward, my life, my skill, and my shadows are yours tomand." [You have received Rank-A Character: Kurogasa - The Shadowed Fang] *** (Author''s Note:) Please support the author by joining the P4tr30n for free. Check it out here: /gnteo Thank you, and I can''t wait for you to enjoy this new experience! Chapter 35 - Eat, Play, and Return to Pure Cuteness The Dune Phantom was an exclusive vehicle designed solely for Awakeners, outfitted with features that synced only with those who could channel Mana through their bodies. What magnificent technology humanity has achieved over the ages. The vehicle approached the high building''s rooftop, where a designatednding pad awaited, and touched down with a seamless glide. As dismounted, followed by Morganna, who now wore her original attire: a striking red dressyered with light armor over her torso. It gave her an elegant yet formidable look. They headed toward the city''s famous sky caf¨¦, guided by an attendant. Even in such a luxurious setting, filled with refined and wealthy patrons, Morganna''s presencemanded attention, drawing every gaze her way as they entered. They settled at a table near the edge, granting them a stunning, panoramic view of the city lights sparkling beneath the night sky. The table interface lit up, allowing them to browse the menu and order directly. As scanned through the options, quietly making selections without saying much to Morganna. "This one looks good," he murmured, picking a dish. "And this one, too." He continued down the menu, pointing at various options. "This, this, and¡­ this one." Whatever this Vampire Queen''s stomach was made of, it seemed she could easily rival Karian''s appetite¡ªthough, in her case, it was mostly sweets. Soon, the food arrived, one dish after another. As nudged a few tes her way without a word, and she took them, equally silent. Without hesitation, she dug into the first ice cream that caught her eye. And yes! He caught it! A smile, faint and fleeting, but unmistakable, gracing the Vampire Queen''s lips. As grinned inwardly, thrilled. He''d just discovered the ultimate secret weapon to thaw this frozen-hearted Vampire Queen: a frozen treat! They enjoyed the meal in silence, both eating steadily, with As doing his best to keep up with her pace so she wouldn''t feel like she was the only one indulging. "Enjoying it?" he asked, breaking the quiet. Morganna nced at him, hesitated, then nodded. "Yes¡­" Damn! She answered! After that, the conversation felt easier, even if every topic she brought up seemed to circle back to the Lord''s struggles and battles. "You could be far more powerful than you are now," she said. "With my support." "I intend to. I''ll show you my resolve and dedication," he replied. "Satisfy me with your progress," she said. "But, I have high standards." He studied her, though she kept her gaze down, focused on her te. "Thanks," he said, grateful for this rare opening she''d given him, though he held back the rest of what he wanted to say. Tonight had been incredibly valuable. Finally, a real conversation with Morganna. He felt like he''d glimpsed a deeper side of the vampire queen. It was a night he wouldn''t soon forget. Time to head back to the hotel. After a long and exhausting day, the night seemed to vanish in the blink of an eye. By morning, As had made up his mind to take his subordinates out to explore the city onest time. This was their final day in Vemar, and he wanted to make the most of it. After all, who knew when they''d have the chance to return?@@novelbin@@ They started with a tour around the city''s best spots, picking up a few items they''d had their eyes on. Then, they hit the bowling alley. As showed everyone the basics, and Edrik quickly got the hang of it. But when it was Karian''s turn, chaos ensued. He hurled the bowling ball with such force that he broke the machine. As could only sigh and rub his forehead as he paid for the damages. Next, they tried their hand at golf. Once again, things went awry. Karian smacked the ball so hard it shot clear out of the course. "That''s not how you y the game!" As scolded. "Sorry, As, but what''s the fun in this?" Karian replied with a shrug. "I''m used to swinging my greatsword at monsters, not a tiny ball." "Fine, let''s find something else then." But just as they were about to leave, Kurogasa stepped up for a swing. He hit the ball with uncanny precision, and everyone watched, wide-eyed, as it soared across the green¡ªand dropped straight into the hole. "Lucky shot?" As asked, raising an eyebrow. "No, I think he''s just that precise," Edrik replied with a grin. They headed next to a fancy all-you-can-eat restaurant. As chuckled to himself, imagining the shock the restaurant owner was in for¡ªafter all, he''d brought along someone with an appetite the size of a pocket dimension. Karian didn''t hold back, grabbing anything that caught his eye and piling it onto their table, all because As had told him he could eat whatever he wanted. The dining time was capped at 90 minutes, but even after just one hour, the waitstaff were starting to look nervous, and the manager kept ncing over with increasing anxiety. As their time drew to a close, the manager approached their table, his face pale. "Thank you for your visit, sir," he said shakily. He probably meant to add "We look forward to weing you back," but the words never came. As left the restaurant thoroughly satisfied, chuckling to himself the whole way out. Well, it had been a fun, short vacation! Thank you, Vemar. He would definitely miss this city. But now it was time to return to Gacha Haven. The real haven awaited him, not exactly a haven, actually, more like a hell that he was determined to turn into a paradise. He wondered briefly what Mira had been up to on her own. As evening approached, As, along with his subordinates, headed to the meeting point outside the city wall, where thirty Awakeners he had recruited were waiting. The moment they stepped beyond the city''s perimeter, he spotted the group gathered there, each one bowing respectfully to greet him. "My Lord, we''re excited for this journey," one of them said earnestly. As nodded, then looked to Edrik. "Is everything prepared?" "Yes," Edrik replied. "Documents, contracts, equipment, supplies. I''ve confirmed we''re set for the next thirty days." "Good, that''s the first hurdle cleared," As said with satisfaction. Then a thought struck him. "Jackpot, quick question. Can the teleportation pad handle this many people at once?" [Host, lucky for you, the teleportation pad can hold up to 100 people. Just open the portal and let them step through one by one.] Perfect! With everything ready, As activated the portal. A magic circle formed on the ground, and a surge of energy shot upward in a radiant cylinder. "Wait for me on the other side," As instructed. One by one, Karian, Lyrassa, Morganna, and the new recruits entered the portal. Edrik gave a respectful bow, then motioned for As to step through. With a nod, As followed. A few secondster, he emerged on the other side and found himself on¡­ what was this?! An ind nketed in flowers, with trees, lush grass, and a gentle stream flowing nearby. And there, right in front of her, was Mira, her face lit up with a wide smile as she greeted him. "My Lord¡­ I''ve been waiting for you to return. I''m so happy to see you again! I prepared a wonderful surprise just for you¡­" she said with that adorably SWEET SMILE! Too cute¡­ nearly every new recruit lookedpletely enchanted, captivated by the sound of her voice alone. *** P4tre0n: gnteo Chapter 38 - Four Hours to Hell and Back As immediately began running down the hillside, feeling the searing heat of the scorched earth beneath his bare feet. Even a moment''spse in focus could send him stumbling dangerously close to the magma river below. A fall that would be disastrous. [Name: As ckthorn] [Level: 44] [Strength: 170 | Agility: 74 | Intelligence: 59 | Constitution: 78 | Stamina: 75] As might have reached level 44, but his total stats were still rtively average. Byparison, he had 456 stat points in total, while Kurogasa, at level 55, boasted a staggering 788 stat points. The difference was stark. Kurogasa''s stats rivaled those of someone at level 78, highlighting just how far apart they were in terms of raw power. It was a clear reminder that level alone didn''t define a person''sbat potential. True strength came from the careful bnce of stat allocation, unique skills, and personal talents. But even with the idealbination of stats, skills, and talents, that still wouldn''t be enough. One had to truly harness their potential, knowing precisely when to use each skill, when to advance, and when to retreat. So many factors came into y. This wasn''t a journey with shortcuts, and with powerful figures surrounding him, As was determined to absorb every ounce of their knowledge and experience to forge himself into something greater. Imagine! Experience was invaluable. Someone like Kurogasa had faced countless high-grade beasts and endured battles that most couldn''t dream of. His mental fortitude and expertise already surpassed what most As'' potential adversaries would bring to the battlefield. Levels and skills created limits, but with the right experience, those limits could be pushed far beyond what anyone would expect. Just like what he was experiencing now. He ran barefoot over the searing hot terrain, the ground so blistering it felt like his skin was being scorched. His feet¡ªprobably bleeding by now¡ªthrobbed with stinging pain. Each breath was heavy, his lungs burning, while sweat poured off him, as if his body were desperately trying to keep up with the brutal conditions. He had only been running for ten minutes, but it already felt like he might copse. Yet, this was only the first task, the warm-up, and he had to endure this for a full four hours! Kurogasa ran alongside As, his expression calm and steady. Every so often, he nced at As with a look that could only be described as a smile. Okay, As couldn''t actually see this Ninja Rat''s smile¡ªnot exactly. It was hard to exin how someone with a rat''s face could smile, but the subtle movement of his mouth conveyed it all. Somehow, he just knew that Kurogasa was smiling, likely amused by As''s struggle. To make it worse, Kurogasa was running effortlessly, asionally spinning around to jog backward without even ncing behind him. One misstep, and he''d be stumbling straight into magma¡ªyet he moved withplete confidence. Twenty minutes. Motherf¡ª! His throat was parched, and his sweat had stopped flowing¡ªhe was probably out of bodily fluids at this point. Could he actually die of dehydration? But Kurogasa didn''t offer any relief, just kept running alongside him, entirely rxed. The damn rat was running with casual ease, even smiling at him! (Please, let''s not discuss again how a human-rat manages to smile.) It was as if watching his Lord struggle this much over a simple run was just proof of his weakness. Yet As knew that, realistically, his body could handle this. At level 44, he''d already surpassed the limits of an ordinary human¡ªseveral times over, in fact. His real challenge here wasn''t his physical endurance; it was his mental fortitude. Imagine it like this: physical strength, flexibility, mana capacity¡ªall of that could be enhanced magically with stat points. But mental fortitude? That couldn''t be hardened so easily. Even someone like As, already at level 44, still needed to train his mental resilience to catch up to his level¡­ or even surpass it. Take Kurogasa, for example. At level 55 now, who knew how powerful he''d been before he was summoned? For him, running across blistering terrain like this was practically child''s y. His mental strength had been forged over years, decades¡ªmore than a hundred years. That kind of confidence and experience allowed him to maximize every aspect of his abilities. Mental fortitude! Mental fortitude! Mental fortitude! Push! Push! Push! Push! As forced himself onward, summoning every ounce of willpower to resist the urge to stop. He was stronger than this, damn it! He was level 44! This was just running¡ªrunning across a rough patch of ground. Sure, the magma nearby was dangerous, but as long as he kept his footing on the scorched earth, he''d be fine. Oh! Forty minutes! Motherf¡ª! And he wasn''t even a quarter of the way through! But no¡ªhe remembered Kurogasa had made it clear: if As wanted a real challenge, this was it. Kurogasa was confident his physical capabilities could handle this training. Four hours of running in a ce like this was still within his limits. He just needed to figure out how to push himself through it. Push! Keep going! He was stronger than this! Run harder! Run faster! Meanwhile, Kurogasa was running backward, casually leaping over streams of magma as if it were the easiest thing in the world. Did rats have eyes in the backs of their heads or something?! Sure, Kurogasa was barefoot too, but he had tough rat feet! Not thin, human skin like As''s. An hour and a half in, and he was still going. But he was a bit shocked¡ªwhy hadn''t he passed out yet? Hadn''t he run out of bodily fluids at least an hour ago? How was he still managing to run? His feet were undoubtedly injured, and he couldn''t even imagine what state the skin on his soles was in by now. Yet somehow, he found he could bear the pain. He kept running, each breath ragged, his lungs straining for air, and his heart pounding furiously¡­ but he was still alive! Maybe dying wasn''t as easy as he thought? Or perhaps this was normal for someone with 456 total stat points and a Strength stat of 170? He kept pushing forward, running, feeling his skin toughen under the relentless heat, which no longer felt as intense as before. Astonishingly, he was enduring these brutal conditions, pressing himself harder than he thought possible. His breathing grew morebored, each gasp sharper, his heartbeat thundering in his chest at an unimaginable pace. But he hadn''t passed out¡­ or died! He kept going. Two hours in, and he was still running. Kurogasa stayed right beside him, following at an effortless pace, still smiling. Damn it! Every time Kurogasa nced his way, As couldn''t shake the feeling that the Ninja Rat was smiling at him. Three hours. Motherf¡ª! As felt like he was on the verge of copsing, like his soul itself might slip out, but he kept going. He was still surviving. This was what magic could do. Three hours and forty minutes. He was still alive?! His movements felt heavy, each step a struggle, his legs barely keeping him upright. But somehow, he hadn''t fallen yet, hadn''t failed. He was astounded by his own resilience.@@novelbin@@ Three hours and fifty minutes. Just ten more minutes? Seriously?! He suddenly realized he could probably go another hour if he had to. This strange rush of joy flooded him. Heughed, feeling a wild exhration, an unexpected euphoria as he ran, his mouth open withughter and sheer relief. Four hours. When the time hit, As finally slowed to a stop, his body feeling light, almost weightless¡ªlike even a breeze might lift him. But he stood there, steady, alive, and victorious. He looked over at Kurogasa, who bowed with a proud smile. "You did it, My Lord." As dropped to the ground,ughing breathlessly, half-gasping as he struggled to catch his breath. Kurogasa knelt beside him, pping a hand on his shoulder. "You did it. That wasn''t ordinary endurance. You showed incredible mental fortitude today. You''ve proven to yourself that you''re a true lord. Be proud of yourself." Asughed, lifting his face with a wide smile. "Thanks¡­ I''m happy." Kurogasa nodded. "Ten-minute break, then we start the second training exercise." "Alright, Master!" he replied, ready for more. Chapter 40 - Zara, Kaida, Garen, and Ronan [You have received 5 Elite XP Orbs] [You have received 20 Units of Iron Ingots] [You have received 10 Mana Fruits] [You have received 1 sk of Mighty Brew] [You have received 10 Small Healing Potion] [You have received 1 Basic Survival Kit] [You have received 5 Units of Fire Stone] Nothing special from the Rank-B tickets, so As decided not to waste any more time analyzing items of that rank¡ªunless he happened to receive something entirely new, like a skill scroll, talent scroll, or some other rare item. He stored everything he''d pulled so far, and now only three purple tickets hovered in the air. ncing around, he noticed everyone watching him intently, their faces filled with anticipation. He touched the first Rank-A ticket, and immediately a sh of light filled the air, causing everyone to squint as the brilliant shape took form. When the glow faded, a weapon hovered before them¡ªa beautifully crafted, radiant white bow with elegant curves and intricate design. A bow! [You have received 1 Rank-A Weapon: Whisperwind Arc] Everyone stared in awe. Even at a nce, they could tell this was an exceptional weapon. Several archers in the troops couldn''t hide their hopeful expressions, clearly eager for a chance to wield it. As grasped the bow, examining its details and quickly scanning through its information. [Whisperwind Arc] [Grade: Epic] [Agility +200 Attack Speed +150] [Skills:] [Phantom Arrow (Active) Generates an energy arrow, allowing for incredible precision and uracy. The arrow deals magic-based piercing damage that scales with the user''s agility.] [Arcane Volley (Active) Fires a rapid sequence of three energy arrows that target the nearest enemies in range. Each arrow has a slight homing effect, increasing the chance of hitting moving targets.] It was indeed an Epic-grade Bow! A truly extraordinary weapon. As looked around at his troops and gave them a confident smile. He wasmitted to equipping his subordinates with the finest gear. Ideally, he hoped to secure signature weapons for each of his summoned allies and, at the very least, Rank-A items for the most promising members of the team. Lifting the bow, he drew the string back, and, almost magically, an arrow formed, glowing with a shimmering energy. He aimed it into the night sky and released it. The arrow shot forward, leaving a glowing trail as it soared high and arced down, disappearing beyond the edge of the ind. Everyone broke into apuse, excitement palpable as they watched. "Zara,e here," As called. A girl among the troops perked up, catching everyone''s attention. She looked momentarily surprised, then stepped forward. This was Zara, the leader of the Aether team. At only 18 years old, she had a petite frame, short silver hair, and wore light armor in shades of brown andvender. Her gaze was a striking mix of determination and calm. As couldn''t help but wonder what this young woman had endured to reach this level of skill; at just 18, she was already level 37 and had pledged her loyalty to him. In fact, As felt she was more naturally gifted than he was. Zara possessed an S-rank talent in Bow Mastery, and Edrik had even mentioned that she was highly skilled at leading her team. She had a keen eye for details and an impressive ability to control her team''s movements, making her an invaluable asset. The young woman stepped forward and bowed. "My Lord." As held out the bow to her. "Take it. Protect and lead your team well with this weapon." Zara hesitated, clearly taken aback, then lifted her head, epted the bow, and bowed deeply. "My Lord, thank you for this gift. I will fulfill my duty to the best of my ability." The crowd broke into apuse as Zara returned to her team, epting congrattions and pats on the back from her fellow members. Eighteen years old¡­ doesn''t she have family down there? As wondered silently. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Mana Prism Lens] [Used to enhance spellcasting uracy and effectiveness. When paired with a magic staff or wand, increases spell damage and grants a chance to cast without consuming mana.] An item for a magic user. As smiled and nced at someone standing near the front. "Kaida," he called. "Hahaha!" A woman stepped forward, her voice bold and lively. Kaida, the leader of the ze team, wore a short yukata, her fiery red hair framing a fierce expression. As swallowed, momentarily distracted by her¡­ abundant curves, which her robe didn''t entirely cover due to its snug fit. "My Lord, that item is for me, right?" "Yes, take it. I''m proud of you." Kaida epted the lens with a grin. "Following you is the best decision I''ve made in my life. Long life and prosperity to you, My Lord."@@novelbin@@ With augh, she returned to her team, proudly showing off the new item to her team. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Soulbinding Armor Set] Ah, another Soulbinding Armor Set. As paused for a moment, heightening everyone''s curiosity. "This is a Soulbinding Armor Set," he exined, "which adapts to fit the user. However, I''ll hold onto this one for now." A few disappointed groans arose from the crowd, but As only smiled in response, tucking the item away in his inventory. He still had 120 standard tickets left, so the possibilities were far from over. As tossed out another 10 tickets. Brown¡­ brown¡­ brown¡­ The crowd watched eagerly as each item appeared. Brown, brown¡­ where was the red? Finally, purple. Then, brown again. Nine Rank-B items and one Rank-A? There was a ripple of smiles, though he could see a hint of disappointment in their eyes. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Aegis Mantle (Chest Armor)] [Provides a defensive shield that absorbs a portion of damage. Gains increased durability and reduced cooldown when paired with a defensive item, allowing it to block additional attacks.] An item for a tanker? Interesting¡­ "Garen," As called. Among the troops, a man stood up¡ªa massive, muscr figure, likely in his mid-twenties, with charcoal hair and ashen skin, radiating a calm yet unyielding presence. Garen stepped forward, his form imposing even at a distance. Garen was the leader of the Cinder team, and As couldn''t help but feel a twinge of awe at his formidable appearance. "My Lord," Garen greeted. Despite his massive build, his expression and tone were calm, almost serene, a striking contrast that only made him more formidable. "Please, protect and lead your team with this item," As said. "Thank you for this gift, My Lord," Garen replied, bowing slightly. "I will bear its responsibility with pride." The crowd broke into apuse as Garen returned to his team, the new item in hand. As couldn''t help but feel impressed by the caliber of individuals who had joined his ranks. They were truly a remarkable team. He tossed another 10 tickets into the air. Brown, brown, brown, brown, brown¡­ purple¡­ brown, brown¡­ Only one purple? As smiled, a bit disappointed, ncing at the others, who also looked a bit let down. As wondered if opening tickets back-to-back somehow reduced his luck, leading to less satisfying pulls. Could it be that he''d simply been unusually lucky with his previous results? Maybe there was a trick or pattern that affected the odds, though he had no way to confirm it. Still, pacing himself and not burning through tickets too quickly seemed like a smart choice. So far, of the three team leaders, only Zara had received a weapon, a bow perfectly suited for her. Kaida had gotten an item to boost her magical damage, a valuable asset for her as a fire mage. Garen had received a defensive item fitting for a tanker like him. That left only one leader who hadn''t yet received anything: Ronan. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Galewind Boots] As picked up the item he''d just pulled. Boots? [Boosts movement speed by 20% and agility inbat. Whenbined with other agility items, increases dodge rate and jump height.] Ah, an item that increases agility inbat, perfect for someone who relies heavily on this stat, like a thief or an archer. As nodded, pleased. "Ronan," he called. A man stepped forward with shoulder-length ck hair streaked with purple and dark, piercing eyes. Dressed in dark, form-fitting clothing with purple ents, Ronan''s expression was enigmatic and reserved. As felt a slight chill under his intense gaze. "My Lord," Ronan greeted, his voice cool andposed. "I believe this will suit you well," As said, holding out the item. Edrik had confirmed that Ronan was not only highly skilled but also ustomed to working solo. As an archer, he was proficient and precise. A lone operator who had now chosen to follow As. Thirty standard Gacha pulls for today. He still had a hundred left¡ªwho knew what he might get next time. "Alright, everyone, get some rest. We''ve got another hard training session tomorrow." The group responded with a mix of "Yes," "Let''s go," and "Yo!" As realized he needed a rallying cry, one simple word or phrase that would unite everyone''s response. But what would it be? *** (Author''s Note:) Dive into beautiful character art and stunning scene illustrations. All free at p4tr30n [dot]/gnteo Plus... extra chapters await¡ªfor the price of a cup of coffee... Heheh! Chapter 43 - The Wandering Magician As opened the first Rank-A ticket, and a scroll floated in front of him. A blueprint? [You have received Rank-A Blueprint: Healing Spring Blueprint] [A small pond that restores health and removes poison effects when yers rest nearby.] "What is it, My Lord?" the troops called out to him eagerly. "It''s something like a healing spring¡­ but it''s just a blueprint, so we''ll need to gather materials to actually build it." "Woah, a spring? I love hot springs!" "Yay, we could have a hot spring here!" They cheered. As checked the list of materials required for construction: [Aqua Crystal (1) ¨C Found in freshwater caves or crystal-rich areas.] [Lifevine Essence (30 mL vial) ¨C Found in magical forests or ruins, harvested from Lifevines.] [Purified Stones (5) ¨C Collected from rivers or created from ordinary stones using Aqua Crystal infusion.] Aqua Crystal? Isn''t that the item I already used to create a water source on the ind and even start a river flow? But he''d already used it up. "Jackpot, can I use the Aqua Crystal I previously installed as a material for this?" [Host, yes, you could repurpose it, but its current function would be lost. Yournd would againck a water source, and the river flow would be redirected to power this small pond.] "Not ideal¡­ let''s keep this blueprint on hold for now." As touched the next rank-A ticket, and to his surprise, a tiny spark of electricity jolted from it. Everyone''s eyes widened as a sudden storm of crackling energy erupted from the ticket, bolts of lightning arcing out in bursts before the ticket finally transformed into a crystal emitting electrical pulses in all directions. "Woah, that''s incredible!" "What is that?" "It''s a rank-A item; it must be something amazing." As carefully reached for the crystal, and this time, it didn''t sting. Instead, it settled into a steady blue glow with asional sparks flickering inside, as if lightning were captured within. [You have received 1 Rank-A Item: Lightning Infusion Crystal] [Adds lightning damage when applied to a weapon or increases lightning resistance when applied to armor.] Oh¡­ this infuses lightning damage into a weapon? Isn''t that amazing? But wait¡ªwould the user also be affected by the lightning effect? Would they need lightning resistance to handle this safely? As felt a surge of excitement, eager to try using this crystal on a weapon someday, though he didn''t yet have the perfect match for it. He could use it on the spear he''d obtained from re Peak, but it wasn''t quite the optimal weapon he hoped for. What element would pair best with lightning? Fire? Water? "This is a Lightning Infusion Crystal," he exined to the others. "It can add lightning damage to a weapon." "Woah¡­ incredible!" "I want my sword to have lightning damage!" "That must be worth a fortune!" "We could fund our whole ind with that money!" someone joked. As chuckled but quickly dismissed the thought. No way am I selling something this valuable. Besides, I''ve got other ways to make money, he thought. At least for now, I don''t need to be desperate. Two rank-A tickets down, and yes, both items were valuable. The first one would be incredibly useful¡ªa healing spring would offer everyone a ce to escape and recover once he managed to build it. And the second item, the Lightning Infusion Crystal, would be an impressive enhancement for his next weapon.@@novelbin@@ As considered sharing the crystal with others¡ªmaybe Karian, whose greatsword already had a fire element, or perhaps Edrik. But on second thought, Karian was strong enough for now, and Edrik didn''t really need it. Morganna, of course, would hate having strange elements pped onto her scythe. No, he decided, this lightning crystal will be perfect for me. Hehe, he thought with a grin, I''ve still got one more rank-A ticket and the rank-S pull left. I can''t wait to see what''s next! He touched the next rank-A ticket, and suddenly a whirlwind formed around it, with something spinning rapidly in ce of the ticket. All eyes watched with curiosity. After a few moments, the swirling winds settled, revealing a long chain with a curved de at its end. Oh, a weapon? Interesting. [You have received 1 Rank-A Weapon: (Unique-grade) Whispering Kusarigama] As smiled at the weapon''s name, already imagining exactly who this weapon would be perfect for. But then he realized¡ªHoly cow. The grade was Unique?! Damn. Sure, he''d gotten a Legendary-grade weapon for Morganna before, but this was his first time obtaining a Unique-grade weapon, just one tier below Legendary. And it was for none other than his Rank-A character, Kurogasa! This weapon was on an entirely different level from what he''d expected. [Whispering Kusarigama] [Grade: Unique] [Agility +200 Attack Speed +200 Movement Speed +10%] [Skills:] [Binding Shadows (Passive) Each sessful strike with the chain has a chance to slightly slow the target, making it harder for them to escape follow-up attacks.] [Fade to Shadows (Active) Swings the kusarigama in a rapid, circr motion, creating a brief mist of shadows around him. This grants a momentary stealth effect, allowing him to vanish and reposition.] [Phantom Strikes (Passive) When attacking from stealth, kusarigama strikes are faster and more urate, making initial hits nearly unavoidable.] Absolutely incredible. As turned toward Kurogasa, who was standing beside Edrik, and smiled at him. "Master Kurogasa, I believe this beautiful Unique-grade Kusarigama belongs to you," he said. A murmur of awe spread through the crowd. "But damn, Unique-grade?!" "No wonder it looks so stunning." "I''d die happy facing a weapon like that." Kurogasa stepped forward slowly and bowed deeply before As, holding his bow a moment longer than usual. "My Lord, I feel unworthy to receive this weapon when I have yet to prove myself to you. I am humbled." "This is your chance to show us your true worth. I have high expectations for you," As replied, handing him the weapon. Kurogasa epted the Kusarigama, and¡­ smiled! Damn! No! With the rank-A tickets finished, it was finally time for the highly anticipated rank-S ticket. What could it be? A character would be fantastic¡ªhaving another rank-S character would definitely help, though he hoped it wouldn''t be someone too high-maintenance. A rank-S weapon would also be incredible, as long as there was someone suited to wield it. A blueprint¡­ Well, that could be tricky, especially if the materials were hard to find. But whatever it was, he was ready! As took in everyone''s excited faces. "Are you ready?!" "Yeah!" they shouted in response. As touched the ticket, which shimmered for a moment before he stepped back. Suddenly, the ticket multiplied into a stack of cards, floating like a card deck. The crowd watched in awe as the cards shuffled themselves, then scattered into the air, falling slowly to the ground. "Woah, cool¡­ like a magician?" "Damn, it has to be a rank-S Magician Character?" "I can''t wait to see what kind of character we''re getting!" The cards settled on the ground, and a swirl of ck cloth appeared, spinning before forming into the figure of a man in the center. An S-rank character! As felt satisfied, though the man''s appearance was... rather¡­ normal? The man wore a slightly rumpled ck suit, his brown hair tousled. He sported a scruffy beard and mustache, giving him a look of someone who hadn''t shaved or groomed in days. [You have received 1 Rank-S Character: Milo ckwood - The Wandering Magician] All eyes were fixed on the new arrival standing before As. The man, Milo, nced around before meeting As''s gaze and grinning. "Heh¡­ looks like I got summoned," he said, scratching the back of his head. He gave a casual bow. "My Lord, the name''s Milo," he introduced himself, then shrugged and held up a deck of cards in his hand with a nervous chuckle. Shuffling the deck nervously, he added, "I''m¡­ a magician." "Hi, Milo, wee to the team. Nice to meet you," As replied warmly. As observed the man standing before him. Milo looked nervous, probably in his forties, and¡ªwas he even¡­ strong? "Hey, show us your power!" one of the troops called. "Yeah, you must be special, right?" Milo looked startled, ncing back at the others. He took a few steps backward, right to the edge of the tform¡­ and suddenly slipped and fell. "Milo!" As called out, surprised. The mannded with a sheepish grin, quickly scrambling back to his feet. "No, no, it''s okay, I''m fine¡­" He shuffled his deck of cards again. "I''m a magician¡­ wanna see my trick?" he offered, smiling nervously. "Trick?" "Not¡­ power?" *** (Author''s Note:) Explore beautiful character art and stunning scene illustrations¡ªfree at p4tr30n [dot]/gnteo Plus, unlock extra chapters for just the price of a coffee... Heheh! Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 46 - The Final Trial of Grit As crouched down in front of Milo, who was trembling as he bowed before him, hands shaking. "Milo, it''s over. No one is going to punish you," As said calmly. "Now, sit up. I want to talk to you." Milo quickly sat up, though his face was still pale, his lips quivering with fear. "My Lord¡­ forgive me¡­ I caused such a mess¡­ if you want to lock me up, or anything else, I''ll ept it. Just please¡­ don''t hurt me¡­" "No, listen." As''s voice was firm but gentle. "Now, tell me what happened to you. Tell me about your friend, Raze, and what made you transform into him. There''s no punishment. I just want to understand." Milo nodded slowly and began to exin. Raze was like another personality within him, or perhaps more than that, a separate presence sharing his body, as if two souls and two minds inhabited one form. "But your stat points with him are different, right?" As asked. "Yes, My Lord¡­ we both level up together, but I¡­ am¡­ weak¡­" As nodded thoughtfully. "So the transformation is triggered when someone touches you?" Milo gave a small nod in confirmation. As studied Milo thoughtfully for a moment. From what he''d seen, it seemed Raze still maintained some awareness of his surroundings and even had enough control to engage in banter with others. Although it was Garen who had initially touched Milo, Raze had focused on fighting Karian and Kurogasa instead. Maybe it was because Karian had directly challenged him? As was also sure that Raze could have fought with even more intensity, yet neither side had delivered any fatal blows. "Wee to the team, Milo. I can already tell you''ll be a valuable asset. What was your previous rank?" "Ch-champion, My Lord¡­" Milo replied hesitantly. "So, the same rank as Lyrassa," As noted, smiling. "You must have been through a lot to reach that rank. I know your experience, knowledge, and insight will be useful for me, and for all of us." Milo nodded slowly, still looking pale. "I can control you¡ªor rather, control Raze¡ªwith my authority," As said calmly. "I could stop you if I needed to, but I choose not to. So, rx." Milo looked up at him, bewildered. As extended his hand, reaching out to ce it on Milo''s shoulder. Kurogasa, Karian, Edrik, Lyrassa, and even Morganna watched closely, ready to intervene at the slightest hint of trouble. "We''re d to have you with us," As said, giving Milo''s shoulder a firm pat. Everyone held their breath, bracing for the worst. But¡­ nothing happened. As straightened, and Milo, who had been tense, anticipating an uncontroble transformation, looked down at his shoulder in stunned disbelief, bewildered by the quiet that followed. As walked over to the others waiting by the portal, with Milo trailing nervously behind him. So, was it true that Milo would transform into Raze if someone touched him? Or was it more likely that his fear of causing trouble was driving that belief? Perhaps he hadn''t transformed when As patted his shoulder simply because he was too exhausted? "Hey, everyone, meet our new teammate, Milo," he announced. But as soon as he spoke, everyone''s faces turned pale, and they hurriedly disappeared into the portal, leaving only Mira standing in front of As. "Hi, Mr. Grumpy¡­ tomorrow, you''re in charge of helping me fix the garden, okay?" she said and giggled. They returned to Gacha Haven, and no one dared to share a hut with Milo, so a separate space had been set aside for him. However, Milo opted to sleep in a tent instead. The next morning, as the group gathered for breakfast,ughing and chatting, suddenly, they all fell silent, their gazes snapping to one spot. There stood Milo, grinning awkwardly and shuffling a deck of cards nervously. "Hi! Want me to show you a card trick?" No one answered. Instead, they all scrambled up and bolted in every direction. Milo headed toward the kitchen. When he arrived, one of the cooks, a young woman, gasped in surprise and dropped a pan with a loud ng. "Ah, no!" she yelped, clutching her stomach. "Sorry¡­ I, uh¡­ I have a stomachache!" And she quickly dashed off. The other cook, looking equally unsettled, slid a lunchbox across the table toward Milo from a distance. "Sir, here''s your food." In the afternoon, As gathered everyone to reassign each team with their new supervisors. At the front of the group stood Zara, Kaida, Garen, and Ronan, with the rest of the troops lined up behind them. Facing them were As and the key team members: Edrik, Karian, Lyrassa, and Milo. "Alright, today I''ll be assigning each team a new supervisor," As announced. "With four supervisors now, we can focus more effectively on your training." Everyone gulped, a sense of nervous anticipation filling the air. "Lyrassa will lead the team¡­" As began, but before he could finish, all four leaders and even some of the troops raised their hands in desperation. "She''ll be working with Kaida," As finished. Kaidaughed, thoroughly pleased. "Ahahahaha¡­ finally! Being with Edrik was so boring. He''s way too stiff." "Shut up, Kaida," Edrik muttered. "Milo will lead¡­" As continued. Instantly, everyone froze, pale-faced and breaking into a cold sweat. "Zara. I''m sure Milo''s experience will be useful to you," As said, nodding toward her. Zara flinched, momentarily startled, then quicklyposed herself. "I''m ready, My Lord," she answered with forced confidence. Finally, Garen was assigned to Karian, making a team of two massive-built warriors, while Edrik was paired with Ronan, two men who both carried an air of mystery. Afterward, As reviewed his Gacha pulls, feeling quite satisfied with the results. Four S-rank pulls out of 150 attempts, plus he still had reserves to spare. [Exclusive Character Banner Summary: Total tickets used: 10 Total Rank-A pulls: 2 Total Rank-S pulls: 1 Next guaranteed Rank-A in 9 pulls Next guaranteed Rank-S in 80 pulls] [Exclusive Weapon Banner Summary: Total tickets used: 20 Total Rank-A pulls: 4 Total Rank-S pulls: 1 Next guaranteed Rank-A in 5 pulls Next guaranteed Rank-S in 79 pulls] [Standard Banner Summary:@@novelbin@@ Total tickets used: 120 Total Rank-A pulls: 23 Total Rank-S pulls: 2 Next guaranteed Rank-A in 9 pulls Next guaranteed Rank-S in 80 pulls] For now, though, he decided to hold off on using the rest. His focus was on maximizing the potential of what he already had: building every necessary structure, training the troops, and preparing quality weapons and armor for them. As had sessfully built four me Beacons, which should be more than enough to support his early battles. Afterward, they continued their rigorous training, leveling up and honing their skills. As remained focused on optimizing his overall stat points. Time was short, just a few days left, but he intended to make the most of every moment. As sprinted across the terrain, passing the troops who had joined him in this training. Barefoot, he ran confidently over the rocky ground near rivers ofva. The troops watched in awe as As ran with newfound speed and ease, spinning his spear expertly as he moved. "Whoa¡­ the Lord''s already adapted that quickly?" "What is his resolve even made of?" "Come on, we can''t fall behind!" Finally, the seventh day of training arrived. As stood in an open field surrounded by hills, while the rest of the troops watched from a distance. This would be his final challenge before concluding the training. In the distance, a deep, thunderous growl echoed through the valley. As, bare-chested and barefoot, spun his spear in preparation, his stance steady and ready. *** (Author''s Note:) Explore beautiful character art and stunning scene illustrations¡ªfree at p4tr30n [dot] / gnteo Plus, unlock extra chapters for just the price of a coffee! Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 48 - Three Paths to Conquest As and his elite subordinates gathered in the fortress to discuss the first wave of battles, set to begin in just two days. Edrik stood at the front, leading the discussion. Not because he was the most experienced, but simply because he had a knack for articting strategy in a way that was easy for everyone to understand, especially for As. There were three primary strategies they could adopt for the uing battle: Attack, Defensive Hold, and All-Out Confrontation. Each option offered distinct advantages and disadvantages, allowing each lord and their territory to approach the conflict ording to their strengths and resources. As nodded slowly, absorbing the significance of each choice and weighing which approach would best serve them. Edrik continued his exnation. The goal of each battle was to earn Rank Points, which would allow a Lord to climb the ranks¡ªfrom Division 1 to Division 5 and, eventually, to the next rank. In As''s case, he needed to progress through these divisions to reach Rank 2: Scout. The First Strategy: Attack This proactive approach involved challenging a nearby opponent directly on their own territory. The primary goal for attackers was to break through enemy defenses and secure victory points. [Advantages:] [- Higher Rank Point Reward: Sessful attacks yield more points, 20 rank points.] [- Loot Opportunity: A victorious attacker can im a portion of the defender''s resources as spoils.] [Disadvantages:] [- Risk of Counterattack: If the attack fails, the defender is allowed tounch an immediate counterattack.] Edrik concluded, "It''s a high-stakes move, but the rewards can be worth the risk." The Second Strategy: Defensive Hold In this strategy, Lords remain on their own ind, focusing on fortifying defenses to repel potential invaders. Rank points are earned by sessfully defending against attacks. [Advantages:] [- Defensive Rank Point Gain: A sessful defense awards 15 points. While this is fewer than the points awarded for attacking, it ensures the ind''s safety and prevents resource loss.] [- Resource Protection: With a sessful defense, all resources are retained, strengthening the ind''s security and stability.] [Strategic Preparation: Defenders can set traps, reinforce environmental fortifications, and take full advantage of the home field, significantly increasing their chances of sess.] [Disadvantages:] [- Slower Progression: Each sessful defense earns fewer points than an attack, which may slow rank progression.] [- No Resource Gains from Opponents: Defending only provides rank points, without the resource bonuses thate from a victorious attack.] As continued, "How far can these attacks go? I mean, is it a fight to total destruction, or does each Lord get a second chance?" Edrik nodded and exined. "In both Attack and Defense scenarios, attackers and defenders have the option to retreat or surrender before reaching total devastation." He added. "However, the earlier they choose to retreat or surrender, the greater the penalty. Think of it like this. If they retreat with only 40% damage taken, the penalty will be steeper than if they''d waited until they were down to the maximum threshold of 10% remaining." After taking these actions, both attacker and defender enter a 1 month cooldown, during which they can focus on rebuilding and fortifying their territory. As nodded slowly, summarizing what he had learned. "So, whether attacking or defending, each Lord still has a chance to fight in the next battle, but they''ll face penalties, losing rank points, resources, or even facing death." He nodded again, realizing that, despite setbacks, Lords still had the chance to reset their strategies ande back stronger. "What about an All-Out Confrontation, Edrik?" Edrik exined the final strategy: The Third Strategy: All-Out Confrontation In this high-stakes strategy, both Lords meet on neutral ground or at a contested location, engaging in an unrestricted battle. This option is the riskiest, but it also offers the greatest rewards. [Advantages:] [- Highest Rank Point Reward: Victors earn 25 points, making this the fastest path for rapid rank advancement.] [Disadvantages:] [- No Retreat Mechanism: Once the battle begins, there is no option to retreat. If one side is overpowered, surrender is the only escape.] [- Severe Consequences on Loss: If a Seeker surrenders, the winning Lord gains control of the defeated Lord''s ind and all its resources.] Edrik continued, "Because of the high risks, not many are willing to choose this third option. Both sides must agree to an all-out confrontation. When a Lord challenges with an attack, the other side can respond with a defensive hold or ept the challenge as an all-out confrontation." As nodded thoughtfully. "So by issuing an attack challenge, a Lord is also opening themselves to the possibility of an all-out battle?" "Exactly. If they choose the attack strategy, they should be prepared for the greatest risk as well." As processed the information carefully: Attack, Defense, or All-Out Confrontation. If someone was greedy enough, they might choose the riskiest option, the all-out battle. But that path left no room for error. If they lose, they''d face either death orplete subjugation to the victor. He recalled what Lyrassa had shared; over hundreds of years, she had only chosen the defensive strategy, growing her ind slowly and steadily. Karian, on the other hand, was more aggressive, preferring to attack and advance quickly. Edrik mentioned that he varied between attack and defense based on his assessment of each opponent. Milo? He said he always started with defense, though he often counter-attacked once his opponent was weakened. And Morganna? She didn''t give anyments. "Now tell me, Edrik¡ªwhat''s the best strategy for our ind?" As asked. "I can only provide a logical assessment; the final decision is yours," Edrik replied. He continued, "We have several powerful individuals. An attack strategy would be feasible, and with our strength, we could execute it effectively. However, the risk is that our opponents might respond with an all-out confrontation if they underestimate us¡ªespecially since they won''t likely anticipate Milo as a threat." He paused before adding, "As for defense, we have the me beacons, but at this early stage, a defensive stance would still result in some damage to our ind, which would take time and resources to repair. I''d say we have a stronger edge in attacking rather than defending¡ªnot because our defenses are weak, but because the potential damage we''d sustain in defense could slow us down." Edrik continued, "But attacking head-on also carries risks, since we haven''t fully assessed what our opponents might be hiding. We don''t know what surprises they might have in store." As nodded thoughtfully. "And what''s the status of our preparations with the troops?"@@novelbin@@ Edrik gave a slight smile. "Not to boast, but our troops are at a solid level. Their armor and weapons have been upgraded over the past week of hunting at re Peak, though not all of it is fully reinforced yet." He went on, "As for the Elite Subordinates, only Lyrassa and Milo are still waiting for their Signature Weapons. But Lyrassa is still more than capable in her support role, and Milo, well, Raze, he''s plenty powerful even without one." As nodded again. "Right¡­ understood. Thanks for the assessment, Edrik." He then stood and faced his Elite Subordinates. "We''ll review our defenses thoroughly over the next day. Make sure everyone, every team, is prepared with their part of the strategy for the battle," he said, his gaze steady. "We''ll engage in at least one battle, then assess whether to continue or shift to the fallback phase." He paused, considering. "If needed, we''ll activate the Reinforcement Phase, where we retreat behind the protective barrier, giving us time to regroup and rebuild." With the first battle wave less than 48 hours away, they had only moments to finalize their preparations. This would either be their first major victory¡ªor their first significant loss. The oue would be known soon enough. *** (Author''s Note:) Explore beautiful character art and stunning scene illustrations¡ªfree at p4tr30n [dot] / gnteo Plus, unlock extra chapters for just the price of a coffee! Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 50 - Soren of Ashroot Grove As and Edrik stood atop the watchtower, where the Rank-A item, the Community Bell, had been set up. It would serve not only to coordinate the battle but also to boost the troops'' morale. As raised a telescope, scanning the horizon. In the distance, he could see the enemy ind slowly approaching, closing in for the battle. ording to the countdown, the sh was set to begin in about 40 minutes. "Their ind''s position is higher than ours," As murmured. "That''s an advantage for attackers," Edrik replied. "It makes it harder for defenders to get a direct view of the iing ind. But it''s just a disadvantage, not aplete obstacle." As nodded thoughtfully, noticing that the enemy ind was slightlyrger than his own. After a pause, Edrik asked, "Have you ever¡­ killed anyone before, As?" As lowered the telescope at the unexpected question. "No, not yet." He shook his head slowly. "Monsters, yes. But never a human." "Well," Edrik said gently, "I think it''s a heavy thing for anyone the first time." As nodded slowly. "I''m sure I''m not the only one facing this for the first time. Some of our troops are even younger than I am." "Well," Edrik replied, "youth doesn''t always meanck of experience." As gave a slight smile. "I understand what you mean. But everyone has ced their trust in me, so I can''t afford a single moment of hesitation." Edrik''s expression softened into a faint smile. "I almost hope these attackerse with a bit of arrogance or taunts. Might make it easier for our people to feel some fire and maybe make the act of taking lives¡­ feel a little less heavy." "If it''s not us doing the killing, it''s us being killed," As added. "Absolutely." As the enemy ind loomed closer,ing into clearer view from below, As summoned his floating throne and took a seat, while Morganna stood behind him, facing outward. He could see his troops below, positioned at their posts along the perimeter of the ind. Each team was stationed on a different side, prepared to repel attacks from any direction. The workers had already been moved to safety inside the fortress, the most secure ce on the ind. Because, If the attackers made it into the fortress, it would mean they''d essentially lost the ind. And then there was Mira. Despite her title as the "Bunny Gardener," no one truly believed anymore that she was simply an innocent caretaker of nts. With her Bloomde Hoe in hand, she was ready and waiting in the lushest section of the gardens, surrounded by dense flowers and greenery. Mira had insisted she''d stationed herself there only "to protect the nts from being trampled." But As knew better, those who underestimated her would quickly realize she was far from just a simple gardener. As could feel the tension radiating from everyone around him. His own gaze had sharpened, his posture more rigid as he braced himself for the battle. Though there were still ten minutes before the sh officially began, the two inds had already drifted close enough that he could see across to the other side. Near the edge of the opposing ind, a figure emerged, standing with an imposing presence. It was a tall, heavily armored person, their armoryered with bear fur that covered their shoulders and even the top of their helmet. This had to be the Lord of that ind. What was his name again? Right¡ªSoren. With ten minutes still remaining until the official battle began, direct confrontation was prohibited¡ªbut that didn''t stop the enemy from attempting a little mental warfare and provocation. "Look at his little ind!" Soren shouted across the gap, his voice carrying over. "It''s seriously adorable¡ªso cute, hahaha!" Just as Edrik had predicted, their opponents arrived brimming with confidence and arrogance,unching into taunts. Whether their arrogance was genuine or a deliberate tactic, As didn''t care; he found himself leaning toward the idea that this particr enemy was simply arrogantly stupid. "With my overwhelming troops, four times what you''ve got, I''ll crush this ind in no time!" Soren boasted. As regarded him with a rxed gaze, curious to see how far Soren would take the insults. "Please," As muttered, just loud enough, "I know you can do better than that." "As of Gacha Haven?" Soren continued. "What are you doing here, kid? Still treating this like a game? With your little gacha fantasies? So, what is it? Does your system let you summon heroes from other worlds? Hahaha." As smiled; he had to give Soren some credit, he was smart enough to guess the concept pretty quickly. "Tell me, kid¡­ are you trembling in fear yet? Just look at your troops. You''ve got a little girl," he sneered, gesturing toward Zara. Zara narrowed her eyes at him, clearly unfazed by the jab. "And over there? A nervous middle-aged man and what? A magician?" Soren added, pointing toward Milo, who was nervously shuffling his deck of cards. Startled, Milo fumbled and dropped his cards, then crouched to gather them up in a hurry, only to have them slip through his fingers again.@@novelbin@@ "I''ll tell you, kid¡­ you''ve got the dumbest troopposition I''ve ever seen in my whole career as a Lord." Whole career? Had this guy been stuck in the Seeker rank for years? "Now, kid, I''ve got a generous offer for you," Soren went on. As kept his expression rxed, simply watching as Soren continued. "Look, I''m not a heartless man. I don''t kill kids, or women for that matter. But you''ve got a bit too many girls on your side, don''t you?" He grinned. "So here''s the deal: I''ll let you off this time if those lovelydiese with me." As raised an eyebrow, sensing an opening. Standing up from his throne, he asked casually, "So you''re saying that if I hand over a few of my girls, you''ll let me go?" Sorenughed, pleased with himself. "Exactly, kid. Give me that blonde girl, the bunny girl¡­," he added, his gaze shifting past As to where Morganna stood. "And that dark-haired woman behind you. Those three will do nicely." As''s smile grew sharper. "But sir, what if they refuse to go with you and choose to fight by my side instead? And what if it''s you who surrenders, allowing me to counterattack and wipe you outpletely?" Soren burst outughing, clearly amused by the taunt. "Kid, you''re absolutely hrious. I''ve given you the best offer I can make, and I''m dead serious. My troops far outnumber yours, and I''m not the type to appreciate rejection." As the countdown ticked closer, Soren''s expression hardened. "Listen up, kid. I''m going to crush you in an instant. I''ll spare those girls, especially that dark-haired bitch behind you. I''ll drag her to my bed, make her mine, and force you to watch¡ªjust so your foolish troops understand exactly what your so-called pride is worth." As opened his mouth to respond, but froze as a sudden, chilling wave of dread washed over him. What the hell is this?! His body shook, every hair standing on end, as though an immense, deadly pressure had seized him, flooding his senses with a chilling intensity. Slowly, he nced back over his shoulder, only to see dark energy seeping from Morganna''s form, swirling around her. *** (Author''s Note:) Explore beautiful character art and stunning scene illustrations¡ªfree at p4tr30n [dot] / gnteo Plus, unlock extra chapters for just the price of a coffee! Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 53 - Im here to end this fight As dashed through Soren''s soldiers as they attacked from every direction. He sidestepped, blocking with his spear, redirecting their attacks with swift, fluid movements, and drove his de deep into one soldier''s chest. Another enemy lunged at him from behind, but a chain de suddenly whipped out, piercing cleanly through the attacker''s skull. Blood sttered across As''s arm. His pulse thundered, adrenaline surging in this brutal, life-or-death battle. He nced to his side as Kurogasa joined him. "My Lord, I''ll be your shadow." In a blur, Kurogasa split into five duplicates, engaging enemies from multiple angles, fending off strikes to keep As''s path clear. Without hesitation, As pressed forward, heading straight for the fortress, where Raze fought fiercely, his massive fists hammering against the thick walls as he attempted to break through. Two soldiers charged at As, attempting to block his path. Suddenly, thick vines burst from the ground, wrapping around their limbs and dragging them down. Lyrassa flew past, both hands raised, casting supportive spells that boosted allies across the battlefield. Behind him, Morganna was locked in fiercebat with several of Soren''s troops, her scythe a dark blur slicing through the air. Meanwhile, As''s forces pressed forward relentlessly, their coordinated assault driving Soren''s soldiers further and further back. But, unexpectedly, Soren''s ind revealed even more reinforcements¡ªtroops pouring out from within the fortress itself. This Soren isn''t just any lord. For someone in Seeker Division 1, there was no way he should have ess to so many resources. Someone powerful must be backing him. Meanwhile, Raze had managed to create arge breach in the fortress wall, all while battling fiercely. He grabbed an enemy by the head, hurling the unfortunate soldier with such force that they flew clean off the ind''s edge, disappearing into the clouds below. As darted forward through the path opened by Kurogasa and Lyrassa, weaving past Raze and slipping into the fortress through the gaping hole Raze had smashed into the wall. Inside, he found Soren standing with arms crossed, waiting as though he''d expected this all along. Kurogasa appeared at As''s side. "My Lord, shall we finish this quickly?" "No," As replied. "Leave him to me." Soren''s mocking voice echoed from behind his helmet. "Oh, As, the little Gacha gamer." Heughed. "I''m trembling in fear. I might even wet myself now that you''vee all this way to try to kill me." As stepped forward, spear in hand, eyes locked onto Soren. This was his moment. A chance to prove himself, and he was resolute in ending it on his own terms. "I gave you a fair chance," Soren said, "but you chose total destruction for yourself." "You''re awfully confident for someone cornered," As replied. "You''re still mouthing off even now, huh?" "Oh, you really think you''ve won, As?" Soren sneered. "Are you truly that na?ve? You have no idea just how far I''m willing to go, As. You''ve underestimated your opponent. I can see how amateurish you are. Is this your first real battle? It''s painfully obvious from the poor decisions you''ve made. Hahaha!" "No, I know we haven''t won yet," As replied smoothly. "But I''m about to make sure of it, by killing you." Sorenughed. "So you really believe you can defeat me? Why don''t you bring your women here while you''re at it? They''re so enticing I''d like to finish this up and have them as my reward." As''s eyes narrowed, his grip tightening on his spear as he took a fighting stance. Soren raised his right hand, and a massive greatsword materialized, its tip scraping the ground with a dull, menacing weight. "So, you think you''re skilled with that puny spear? Let''s see who''s truly the better fighter! I''ll smash your head to pieces with this greatsword of mine!" "I''ll kill you first, and take that armor and greatsword to equip my own troops." "Hah! Too much talk!" As focused, carefully assessing his opponent. Facing someone wielding a greatsword, he knew he couldn''t rely on direct confrontation or parrying Soren''s strikes¡ªthe sheer force would overpower him. Instead, he needed to use the weapon''s weight against Soren. With his spear, he had speed and agility on his side, both of which would be key in this fight. They charged at each other. Soren swung his greatsword in a powerful, sweeping arc, aiming to cleave through As. But As stopped short, leaping back just in time to dodge the attack. Seizing the opening, he sidestepped and aimed a swift strike at Soren''s side. Soren smirked, shifting with surprising speed, intercepting the attack. The impact sent As skidding back, but he recovered instantly, lunging forward from another angle. This time, Soren deflected each of As''s strikes, then unleashed a Skill move of his own¡ªa rapid series of shes with his massive greatsword, each swing blurring with power and speed as it sliced toward As. As backflipped to avoid the onught, his feetnding gracefully as he steadied himself, repositioning with precision and calcting his next move. As allowed a small smile to spread across his face, savoring the thrill of the fight. He knew Soren had both devastating attacks and formidable defenses with his heavy armor¡ªbut this battle had only just begun. [Epic - Bloodrush (Active) Lv. 1] [Channeling vampiric energy into muscles, grants a surge of speed, enabling swift, precise movements through enemies with rapid agility.] A surge of energy flooded through him, like his blood was thrumming with newfound power. His senses sharpened, his stamina surged, and he felt a burst of strength in his limbs. He shot forward, moving with explosive speed. Soren''s eyes widened, clearly startled by the shift in As''s movement speed. [Elite - Duskbound Presence (Conditional Passive) Lv. 1] [Exudes an intimidating aura that weakens the attack power of nearby enemies and boosts critical strike chances when surrounded by multiple foes.] As''s eyes glowed red, his gaze piercing with an intense, predatory focus. Soren, caught off guard, felt a wave of pressure radiate from him. A killing intent that seemed to sap his own strength. [Common - Endurance Boost Lv. 10] As darted around Soren, his attacks relentless. Soren struggled to keep up, forced to block each strike. "You think you''re stronger just because of some cheap buff skill?" Soren snarled, attempting to match As''s speed. He swung his greatsword wildly, but As weaved around him, too fast and precise to be caught by the powerful but slower swings. As circled, thrusting his spear from various angles. He struck from behind, and as Soren whipped around to retaliate, As sidestepped and aimed a swipe at his neck, then another strike to the back of his knee, each blow chipping away at Soren''s defenses. "Curse you, you son of a¡ª!" Soren roared in frustration. As remained focused, continuallynding blows on Soren''s weak spots. The difference in speed was overwhelming, and Soren''s heavy armor couldn''t make up for it. Sensing an opening, As drove his spear toward Soren''s wrist with pinpoint uracy. The impact forced Soren to drop his greatsword. It ttered to the ground, leaving him vulnerable as As prepared for the finishing strike. As lunged again, aiming for Soren''s chest, but Soren managed to catch the spear with his hand. Undeterred, As pressed on, attacking relentlessly now that Soren was defenseless without his weapon. With another precise swipe, he struck, knocking off Soren''s helmet. For the first time, As saw his face. Young, barely in his twenties, and twisted in panic, a stark contrast to the arrogance he''d shown before. As delivered another powerful thrust, throwing Soren backward, sending him sprawling to the ground. This is it, As thought, ready to end it. He shot forward, spear aimed for the final blow. But suddenly, a sharp presence appeared at his side. Kurogasa?! "My Lord, forgive me!" Kurogasa eximed, intercepting As and pushing him back slightly. What just happened?! In that instant, a new figure appeared between As and Soren¡ªa man with a long, blue sword, d in light blue and white armor, with his ck hair tied back and a well-kept mustache. The neer''s sword met Kurogasa''s in a sh of steel, forcing Kurogasa to leap back, readying himself for another strike as he eyed the mysterious swordsman warily.@@novelbin@@ "Pleasure to meet you all," the man said with a calm smile. "I am Takashi, and I''m here to end this fight swiftly. This has been quite the waste of time." Kurogasa''s eyes narrowed. "My Lord, his level is high. Much higher than Morganna''s." Chapter 55 - His Domain was Growing Soren had fully transformed into his monstrous form.@@novelbin@@ Damn! What kind of Lord at this rank wields power like this? What kind of transformation could grant such strength? Even at a nce, the difference was obvious. He had blocked Raze''s attack effortlessly¡ªa clear and massive upgrade. Each step of Soren''s beast form sent shockwaves in every direction, forcing the troops to keep their distance, with only the elite subordinates able to approach. Spectral roots erupted from the ground, spreading out to snare anyone who got too close. As, still observing from his floating ind, watched closely, with Edrik now standing at his side. "As, I''d say we''ve hit the jackpot with this one." "Is this a good one or a bad one?" "Anything can be good if we''re smart enough to handle it." Edrik was clearly talking about the power behind Soren¡ªthe kind of force that would give him this level of strength. "This guy seems to have an ability to summon spirit beasts," Edrik continued. "We saw the Bear. It''s possible he could also summon a wolf and a stag." "And this form?" "It looks like he''s merged with those spirit beasts, creating this bizarre form." "Merged?" "Yes. Most likely, it''s hisst resort to survive. He probably doesn''t even care about himself anymore, choosing this path instead." "And beyond that?" "Whoever his backer is. That could be a potential threat for us." As nodded. "But whether we let this guy go or kill him, the threat will still find its way to us, won''t it?" "Exactly right, As." As nodded again. "Then it''s best to take down this strange beast before anyone on our side falls to him." "Agreed," Edrik replied with a nod. Raze charged forward with brutal force, ignoring the spectral roots shooting up from the ground in a desperate attempt to restrain him. He lunged and grabbed hold of Soren''s leg. Soren let out a fierce roar, swinging a massive arm down toward Raze¡ªjust as a chain de sliced through the air, embedding itself in Soren''s left arm. Kurogasa had arrived, his de locked onto Soren''s arm, dealing relentless damage. Morganna shot through the air, her scythe shing as she struck at Soren''s face, thennded on the beast''s shoulder, hacking away again and again with brutal precision. The beast barely stood a chance against As''s Elite Subordinates. Soren let out a thunderous roar, unleashing a massive wave of energy that radiated in all directions. The sheer force sent As''s floating throne tumbling backward, the shockwave ripping through buildings, fortresses, and anything in its path, leaving devastation in its wake. Despite the chaos, Raze remained relentless, hammering Soren''s leg with brutal strikes. Morganna, thrown to the ground by the wave, quickly recovered,unching herself back into the air. With precise control, she floated momentarily before diving in to attack again. Kurogasa and Karian joined the fray, each delivering their own punishing blows to the beast. From a distance, the troops could only watch in awe as the Elite Subordinates unleashed their full strength. Yet, it was impossible to ignore the overwhelming power of their opponent. This wasn''t a fight that would end easily. As activated the Stormcaller''s Amulet, his hand trembling with electric energy as the skies above darkened once more. Thunder rumbled, and shes of lightning lit up the heavens. Then, a blinding, massive bolt of light descended from above! The lightning struck Soren''s massive form directly, its sheer force causing all the Elite Subordinates to retreat to a safe distance. Momentster, an earth-shaking roar of thunder echoed across the ind, the impact reverberating as if the entirendmass had been struck with unrelenting force. Soren was immediately bombarded with attacks from all sides once again. It was clear he could no longer mount any meaningful defense. [Elite - Duskbound Presence (Conditional Passive) Lv. 1] [Common - Endurance Boost Lv. 10] [Epic - Bloodrush (Active) Lv. 1] As steadied himself, exuding calm resolve, before leaping from his floating throne directly toward the roaring beast. The troops watching below froze, holding their breath in disbelief. "The Lord? He''s jumping into the fight against the beast?!" "Damn it! I feel useless just standing here!" "We should be ashamed of ourselves." "I get that the Elite Subordinates are monsters, but that doesn''t mean we can just stand around!" "I won''t let myself stay idle any longer." "Let''s go! Join the fight!" As shot toward Soren''s head as the beast roared in agony. But Soren''s massive left hand lunged up, aiming to crush him mid-air. As focused every fiber of his being, feeling as though he couldmand every part of his body with absolute precision. He spun his spear, and just as Soren''s massive hand came crashing down, As skillfully maneuvered, using the spear to deflect himself out of harm''s way. With a graceful twist, As somersaulted above Soren''s head, the beast still writhing in pain. Gritting his teeth, he tightened his grip on the spear. [Elite - Flurry of Spears Lv. 2] As plunged down, driving the spear''s tip directly into Soren''s eye. He held his ground, pressing into the target. With a fierce pull, he wrenched the beast''s eye from its socket. Soren staggered, losing bnce, and fell backward with a thunderous crash. As began to fall, floating in mid-air with nothing to catch his descent¡ªuntil Morganna darted forward, grabbing him with her right hand. Together, they surged forward, chasing after Soren''s massive, copsing form. In one fluid motion, Morganna flung As back toward Soren''s head. As twisted in mid-air, barely believing this was real. He was soaring, almost flying¡ªand he readied himself for another strike. [Common - Piercing Thrust Lv. 7] The skill activated, and his spear propelled him forward, driving him straight toward the beast''s neck with deadly precision. The spear struck true, piercing deep into the beast''s neck. Spectral white blood sprayed out as Soren''s massive form dissolved into smoke. Momentster, his original body appeared on the ground, lifeless and crumpled not far from where they stood. [You have sessfully in Soren, the Lord of Ashroot Grove.] [You have won the battle.] [You have gained 20 Rank Points.] [Your ind size will receive an upgrade.] [You have received 650 Arcane Shards.] [You received 12,240 Exp] [...] A cascade of notifications filled As''s vision, but his attention shifted to the sound of cheers. The troops, overjoyed by their hard-earned victory, ran toward him in celebration, their voices ringing out in triumph over the battle. Edrik and the others approached him. "Anyone who knew you two weeks ago wouldn''t believe you''d be capable of this, As," he said with a proud smile. Kurogasa bowed deeply. "My Lord, I''m confident your potential will grow even greater than this, and it is an honor to stand by your side as you achieve it." Light enveloped them one by one, gently lifting them away and returning them to Gacha Haven. From a distance, they watched Soren''s floating ind crumble, breaking apart piece by piece and sinking into the clouds below. But another marvel unfolded before them. Gacha Haven, As''s ind, began to expand. From its outer edges, newnd rose like pieces of a puzzle locking into ce, steadily increasing the ind''s size. Atst, his domain was growing! Chapter 57 - Dungeon Break Another journey across the desert ins began. This time, As opted to ride his Dune Phantom, while Morganna piloted the floating throne, with Edrik and Kurogasa seated alongside her on its tform. The floating throne was undeniably morefortable¡ªit allowed him to rxpletely, even nap, as it carried him to his destination. Though the hover bike could also operate on autopilot, its seating wasn''t exactly suited for catching any sleep. As the bike glided effortlessly over the sands, As took the opportunity to review his progress so far. Two victories under his belt, and he needed just one more sessful defense to advance to Division 2. If he seeded, his challenge invitation slots would reset, and three new challengers from Division 2 would rece the current lineup. It was a step up¡ªa new level of difficulty¡ªbut also an exciting opportunity. Staying in Division 1 for a while might seem easier, considering the level of opponents. But no¡ªnot really. Even his first challenger, Soren, had been incredibly strong. He sighed deeply. Should he consider joining an alliance? It was tempting, given the early support a Lord could gain from such a move. However, joining an alliance would also mean granting others a degree of control over him¡ªsomething As was unwilling to ept. Being a solo Lord, as he had chosen, came with significant risks. While he did have Summoned Lords from other worlds at his side, they were far from their peak forms. With their powers downgraded in this realm, their abilities were a shadow of what they once had been. It left him with much to consider. He still had one Attack Token left, which he nned to use wisely, considering he would face four more defenses after this. He needed to make the most of the opportunity, aiming for thergest rewards possible while ensuring he didn''t be overly greedy¡ªsomething that could put him at risk. He finally secured the World Shards upon arriving at the Awakener Association Center! Atst, he would be able to build the Gateway Altar and wouldn''t need to return here again¡ªthough he did enjoy visiting this bustling city. As also secured additional materials and supplies for his ind, spending 760 gold coins in the process. Having plenty of money was a relief, allowing him to shop more freely. However, he made sure to save a significant amount, knowing he''d need it to recruit more troops soon. For a Seeker Division 1 Lord, would 40 troops be enough? Or should he aim for more? In the end, As decided to recruit 10 more troops from the applicants he''d evaluated weeks ago. Once everything was settled, he and his subordinates left the Awakener Association Center, ready for the next phase of preparation. He nced at Morganna, who was walking beside him. "Want to head straight home?" Morganna looked at him briefly but didn''t reply. "What about trying some more sweet treats from the city?" Still, no answer. He sighed, running a hand through his hair, when suddenly¡ª "Hey! Watch where you''re swinging that tail!"@@novelbin@@ As turned at the sound of someone shouting angrily in their direction. Kurogasa quickly bowed to the irritated man. "I apologize for the trouble." "Dammit!" the man growled, ring in disgust at his sleeve. "Now I have to change clothes again!" As stepped forward, pulled out a few banknotes, and pressed them into the man''s hand. "Buy yourself some new clothes with this." He turned and resumed walking without waiting for a response. "Hey! Are you mocking me? Do you think I can''t afford my own clothes?!" the man shouted after him. As didn''t even look back. After walking for a while, a sudden re of sirens erupted from every direction. What''s going on?! As stopped in his tracks, watching as people began running in panic. His gaze swept across the streets until his eyesnded on the massive digital boards mounted on nearby buildings. Every single one disyed the same urgent broadcast. "Emergency alert! Emergency alert! The dungeon expedition conducted two months ago has failed. The awakeners sent to clear the Level 250 dungeon have been defeated." "Dungeon break," As muttered. A Dungeon Break urs when a dungeon fails to be cleared before its expiration period ends. When this happens, the dungeon copses, and the monsters inside are unleashed, attacking the surrounding environment with brutal ferocity. What makes this worse is that monsters emerging from a dungeon are far more aggressive than the ones typically found roaming in the outside. Unlike external monsters that tend to stay within specific areas, these dungeon monsters actively seek out targets, making them a far greater threat to any nearby poption. "They couldn''t handle a Level 250 dungeon?" Edrik asked, frowning as he turned to As. As shrugged slightly. Edrik continued. "You mentioned the highest-ranked Lord here is a Rank 6 Marshall, right? Their power should be somewhere between Level 300 and 400. A Level 250 dungeon shouldn''t have been an issue." "Do the Lords where you''re from even care about what happens in the Lower Lands, Edrik?" Edrik sighed, the corners of his mouth twitching. "Well, now it makes sense." As let out a tired sigh. "Awakeners in the Lower Lands don''t usually reach high levels. For them, a Level 250 dungeon is nothing short of a disaster." "Even worse¡­" As continued, "if they failed to clear the dungeon, it means they''ve died there. Losing arge number of high-level awakeners at once would be a massive blow to this city." "Dungeons have valuable resources to harvest. Those Lords should have seen it as a win-win solution to help clear dungeons in the Lower Lands," Edrik said. "Even better than what we can harvest from unupied floating inds, Edrik?" Edrik smiled and gave a small bow to As. "In specific cases, some materials can only be found in certain types of dungeons." "Ah, got it," As replied with a nod. People were running everywhere. Cars honked furiously as traffic began piling up, and some drivers abandoned their vehicles entirely, choosing to flee on foot. "Where''s the dungeon located?" Edrik asked, scanning the chaos. "It can''t be inside the city, right?" As nced at the digital boards again, which now showed live footage from outside the city. The view revealed massive preparations underway to repel an iing monster wave. Soldiers were lining up, and automated defenses wereing online. "No, it''s from outside." After a moment of thought, As added, "Let''s head to the nearest caf¨¦ and watch how Dune Bastion¡ªthe city''s heavy turret defense system¡ªhandles the monster waves. We can also see how the Saharian Army fares against them." They made their way to the nearest caf¨¦, which was still open despite the chaos outside. Only a few patrons remained, but the staff appeared surprisingly calm. As ordered drinks and a meal, noting the rxed demeanor of the caf¨¦ workers even as the city outside descended into panic. The caf¨¦ had arge screen, perfect for keeping track of the unfolding events. "How bad is a Level 250 dungeon, Edrik?" Edrik leaned back slightly. "It depends, but if they mentioned the expedition was two months ago, this isn''t a typical dungeon. It''s likely a raid dungeon¡ªsomething that requires far more people and time to clear." "Which means we''re looking at waves of Level 250 monsters," Kurogasa added. As started a conversation with the waiter, a man in his 30s who brought their food to the table. "Does this sort of thing happen often around here?" As asked. The waiter smiled. "No, this is the first time we''ve had a dungeon break of this level. But I think the Dune Bastion should handle the monsters just fine, right?" "You seem pretty calm, especially with how panicked everyone else is outside," As noted, raising an eyebrow. The waiter chuckled. "Well, I''m an awakener too. But in the end, I chose to open this caf¨¦ instead." "Ah, good to know," As replied with a small nod. The waiter gave a polite bow before returning to the counter. Their attention turned back to the screen, where the monsters began emerging in the distance, a seemingly endless wave rushing across the desert ins. Their numbers were staggering, stretching from one edge of the horizon to the other. "Oh, are you kidding me?! That''s way too many!" As eximed, leaning forward in disbelief. "Now," Edrik muttered, "this doesn''t just look like a Raid Dungeon anymore." Chapter 60 - Sandscourge Devourer There! In the middle of the battlefield, something began to move beneath the ground. The sand bulged upward, forming a massive, elongated mound as though something enormous was burrowing just beneath the surface. Panic erupted as everyone''s fears came to life. And then¡ªit appeared. Another monster! A Massive Desert Worm! A colossal dune worm emerged from the sands. Its segmented body was covered in thick, armored tes that resembled sandstone. Its gaping maw was lined with countless rows of razor-sharp teeth, ready to devour anything in its path. Along its sides, jagged ridges and spikes made the creature look even more menacing. As swallowed hard as the image came into focus on the live broadcast. Seriously, this was another nightmare. [Epic-grade Sandscourge Devourer Lv. 265] "So, this is exactly what you mentioned earlier, Edrik. Two Dungeon Bosses?" As muttered, his tone heavy. "Let''s hope this is thest one," Edrik replied. "But the Lord already looks exhausted¡­" As murmured, his mind racing as he imagined the worst-case scenario. The Dune Worm moved with terrifying speed,unching its massive body into the air before mming down onto the Dune Bastion. Another violent tremor shook the entire city, but this time, the unthinkable happened¡ªpart of the city wall began to crack! The weary warriors hesitated, pulling back momentarily, as if regrouping to strategize against this new, monstrous threat. Meanwhile, hundreds of other monsters continued their relentless assault from all directions, shing with the turrets that kept firing, as well as the Saharan Soldiers scattered across the battlefield. And Lord Kareem? He hovered in the air, clearly avoiding the Dune Worm as it rampaged dangerously close to the city wall, its massive body thrashing with destructive force. The camera focused on Lord Kareem, who remained motionless in mid-air. Was he exhausted? Or had he given up? As could clearly see the desperate expressions of those watching the live broadcast. For them, this might as well be the apocalypse. A city as grand and powerful as this, reduced to ruins if the Dune Bastion fell and the rampaging monster reached the heart of the city. The broadcast ryed more grim news: reinforcements would arrive in 20 minutes. 20 minutes?! As''s chest tightened. By then, the city would already be in ruins! But then, something unexpected happened. Kareem''s body was suddenly enveloped in a brilliant white energy, giving the floating warrior an almost ethereal appearance. Wait¡­ why did As feel something familiar about this? The energy surrounding Kareem grew brighter and more intense. The sheer force of it seemed almost overwhelming, prompting the camera to pull back as the light engulfed his entire figure. Kareem was no longer visible¡ªjust a radiant, blinding form. And then¡ª A deafening roar ripped through the battlefield! What was that?! Where Kareem had been moments ago, a massive figure now emerged from within the radiant light. It resembled a beast with four legs, but it was farrger than any ordinary creature, with two pairs of expansive wings stretching out majestically. Then, the light began to fade, revealing the creature fully. A lion?! But with two majestic wings¡­ and three flowing, fox-like tails? It was a spectral beast, its form both powerful and otherworldly. The creature had a muscr, regal lion''s body, glowing, ethereal eagle wings, and three fox tails radiating ghostly energy. Its form shimmered with spectral energy. "Kareem¡­ transformed into this beast?" As murmured. "It''s simr¡­" Edrik muttered softly, ncing at As. Both of them understood immediately. This transformation was eerily simr to what had happened to Soren, the Lord As had faced in his first battle. "Eryndralis," the waiter said. "What''s that?" As asked, curious. "This is the spirit form of Lord Kareem. He merged with the spirit beasts'' power, bing one with it and taking its form. This form is called Eryndralis." "What a unique name," As remarked. "But it looks pretty cool too." The faces of those watching the live broadcast shifted once more, their eyes lighting up with renewed hope. For the second time, a glimmer of victory seemed possible. The spectral beast, majestic and awe-inspiring, pped its powerful wings. The lion with wings and three fox tails unleashed a massive cannon-like wave of energy from its mouth. Each beat of its wings sent spectral fox-like creatures hurtling toward the Dune Worm, striking it relentlessly. The Dune Worm writhed violently, its massive body convulsing as patches of its skin began to glow an ominous red. "Wait¡­" As muttered. "It''s not going to blow itself up, is it?" Suddenly, the live broadcast blurred, the screen struggling to focus, and the air itself seemed to shimmer with heat. "What''s going on?" As asked, but the answer was obvious. The temperature in the caf¨¦ spiked as if the very air was on fire. The worm''s heat was radiating across the battlefield, even reaching into the city itself. "Oh damn," As muttered. Even he, ustomed to the heat, could feel the sweltering wave of difort. ncing around, he noticed others in the caf¨¦ fanning themselves, some rushing to grab cold drinks tobat the oppressive heat. And Morganna? She sat quietly, staring at her ice cream. It had melted almost instantly, leaving her with a soupy mess in her ss. Her eyes narrowed, her expression shifting to a t, unreadable stare. The Spectral Beast continued its relentless assault, its mighty wings beating fiercely as it fired glowing cannon-like sts at the Dune Worm, each shot hitting with devastating force as if attempting to burn the creature alive. Dozens of spectral foxesunched from the beast''s wings, mming into the worm repeatedly. Despite this, the Dune Worm writhed violently, thrashing its massive body and asionally mming against the Dune Bastion, sending tremors across the battlefield. Would this strategy work? Everyone watching held their breath, enduring the sweltering heat that had grown unbearable. The caf¨¦''s air conditioning was no match for the oppressive temperature, and the heat only intensified as the battle dragged on. The battlefield itself was a chaotic mess of sandstorms, explosions, and scorching waves of heat. Then¡ªgradually¡ªthe Dune Worm began to slow. The moment stretched on, feeling unbearably long and intense. Perhaps it wasn''t truly that long, but in situations like this, every second felt like an eternity as everyone anxiously awaited a victorious oue. Finally, the Dune Worm''s massive, once-indomitable body stilled, its wild thrashinging to an end. It stoppedpletely, with smoke rising from its thick, armored hide. The once-imposing creaturey motionless, its scorched and battered form a silent testament to the brutal battle. Was it over? Had the worm finally been burned from the inside out? Everyone breathed a sigh of relief, though a lingering sense of unease remained. They silently prayed this would truly be the final Dungeon Boss they had to face. As moments passed, the battle against the remaining hundreds of monsters continued, with turrets, cannons, and Saharan Soldiers working tirelessly to eliminate the stragglers. Finally, the announcement came: The broadcast screen flickered, and the voice of an announcer, steady but charged with emotion, filled the airwaves.@@novelbin@@ "Attention, citizens of the Vemar City, Saharan Empire!" The camera panned across the smoldering battlefield, showing the defeated forms of the Dune Godzi and the Dune Worm. "Both Dungeon Bosses have been defeated! The threat to our great city has been neutralized!" The camera zoomed in on Lord Kareem, still floating in mid-air, already transformed back to his original form. "This victory belongs to the brave defenders of the Dune Bastion and to the Saharan Soldiers who stood firm in the face of overwhelming odds. But above all¡ªtoday, we owe our survival to Lord Kareem, a Rank-4 Sentinel, who led us to triumph!" The screen disyed an image of Kareem raising his greatsword. "The nightmare has ended. Our city stands tall! Let this day remind us of our strength, our resilience, and the heroes who walk among us!" A wave of celebration swept through the city. It wasn''t the jubnt kind of joy but rather a collective feeling of exhaustion and overwhelming relief. The nightmare had finally ended. *** (Author''s Note:) I need your support to keep the story alive. ess character art, chapter illustrations, and advanced chapters for free and exclusive content on p4tr30n[dot/gnteo Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 63 - He would go even further! As copsed to the ground, the searing pain radiating through his body. He screamed, the agony so overwhelming it felt as though it might knock him unconscious. Kurogasa had carefully chosen a training area where theva streams were shallow and sparse, with wide stretches of solid ground between them. Even so, the streams, no wider than a human foot, were still dangerous enough that one wrong step could cause serious harm. And now, As''s foot hadnded directly in one of them, the molten heat melting his sole as though it were wax. "My Lord¡­ let me heal you," Lyrassa said, rushing to his side alongside Kurogasa. As felt their presence and the beginning of healing energy flowing into his foot. His hand shot out, gripping Lyrassa''s wrist to stop her. The lessons he had learned from Kurogasa rang loudly in his mind. Pain must be endured. Only by pushing to the brink can you surpass your limits. As clenched his teeth, breathing heavily. He couldn''t let this pain defeat him. It wasn''t his body that needed to endure¡ªit was his mind! "Only heal me if there''s a risk of permanent damage," he said through gritted teeth. Lyrassa shook her head, clearly against his decision, but reluctantly followed his orders. Her gaze remained fixed on his face, falling silently as she watched him endure the pain. "My Lord¡­" Kurogasa said. "No," As interrupted. "This is just the beginning. I''m not giving up!" He stayed on the ground for a moment longer, letting the pain ripple through him. It didn''t fade¡ªnot really¡ªbut he willed himself to move. Slowly, with a roar of frustration, As began to rise. His legs shook as he forced himself upright. Damn it! The pain was excruciating, but he refused to stop. This was the path to strength, and he would walk it, no matter how much it hurt. He started running again, shouting at the top of his lungs. "DAMN IT! DAMN IT! DAMN IT! ARGHH!" This time, his steps carried more confidence. Having endured the pain once, he knew he could survive it again. Strangely, everything around him began to feel sharper, clearer. The crackling of theva, the shifting heat in the air, the distinct scorched smell that changed as he moved¡ªhe was beginning to sense it all. He could feel the environment guiding him, each step bing more precise. He could do this! Lyrassa stood with a worried expression, her gaze fixed on As. Beside her were Kurogasa and Edrik. "The Lord¡­" she whispered, her voice trembling. "He''s only human¡­" Her words caught in her throat as tears fell freely down her cheeks. "He''s just a normal human¡­ This suffering must be hell for him." She shook her head, unable to hide her distress. Edrik sighed heavily. "Even I, an assassin ustomed to hellish training, feel like my past struggles were child''s ypared to what he''s putting himself through." Kurogasa nodded slowly. "It pains me to see him suffer like this. But he knows better than anyone what he wants. All we can do is support him and cover his blind spots." The three of them watched in silence as As ran again, faster this time. His steps grew surer, and he managed to guide himself away from the streams ofva with greater precision. He was adjusting, adapting¡­ learning. As stumbled again, this time falling into the same stream ofva. The pain was excruciating, and he rolled on the ground, clutching his leg as if the agony were breaking his very bones. Lyrassa and Kurogasa rushed toward him, worry etched on their faces. But after ensuring he could endure, they stepped back as As forced himself to stand once more. He started running again, his resolve unshaken despite the pain. This wasn''t even the firstp¡ªit was far from over. Then, finally¡ª "My Lord, firstp," Kurogasa called out as As passed him. As managed a faint, determined smile before pushing forward, his pace unwavering. Finally! As he continued, the rhythm of his running became steadier. He was growing ustomed to navigating without sight, interpreting his surroundings through smell, heat, and sound. His senses sharpened, working together in ways they never had before. It was sheer, unrelenting hell. There were moments when he felt despair, questioning the sanity of his decision to endure such punishment. But every time doubt wed at his mind, he roared¡ªdeep, primal, and unyielding¡ªforcing himself to push harder. He pushed harder! With every step, his confidence grew. Sure, he fell again. His legs were scraped raw, his body battered, caked in dirt and blistered from the heat. But he refused to stop. He rose every time, his determination burning brighter than the molten streams beneath his feet! And finally¡­ finally!!! "My Lord, you''ve done it," Kurogasa''s voice broke through the haze of exhaustion. As smiled, then burst intoughter as he copsed onto the ground, his body trembling with relief. Hahaha! Heughed, reaching up to remove his blindfold. As his vision adjusted, he saw Kurogasa, Edrik, Lyrassa, and all the troops surrounding him. They stood silently for a moment before bowing to him in unison. Edrik stepped forward, offering his hand to help As up, steadying him as he struggled to find his footing. This had been another round of hellish training. But he had made it through. As clenched his fists. This wasn''t his limit¡ªnot yet. He would keep pushing himself, breaking through every barrier, no matter how impossible it seemed. He would go even further! Afterward, the group took a well-deserved break for lunch before diving into another grueling round of training. The intensity matched the earlier session, pushing everyone to their limits. By the time evening rolled around, they returned, exhausted, to Gacha Haven. Moments like these made As think how much more enjoyable post-training recovery would be if he could construct the Healing Spring. The blueprint he''d acquired from the Gacha, but he stillcked the materials to build it. He resolved to explore other inds soon to gather what he needed. In his room, As received treatment and healing from Lyrassa. Her abilities worked wonders, and he was back to his normal state much faster than he could have expected. It was nothing short of a miracle having someone like her on his team. That night, as usual, the ind came alive. Everyone gathered to eat,ugh, and sing around the fire. Some took turns grilling food, others joined in karaoke, and a few brave souls tried their hand at stand-upedy, filling the night withughter and joy. As sat back, watching it all, a satisfied smile on his face. This vibe¡ªthis energy¡ªwas something he intended to preserve. He reviewed his remaining gacha pulls. He still had 80 Standard Tickets! This meant he was guaranteed at least one Rank-S item, though he couldn''t help but feel a little greedy, hoping for even more. The excitement among his troops was palpable as As stepped onto the stage. This was the moment everyone had been waiting for. He grabbed 10 tickets and threw them into the air. The glowing tickets spun wildly before each began to change color. Brown. Everyone fell silent. Brown. Brown. Brown. Then¡ªPurple! "FIRE!" the crowd roared in unison. Another ticket turned Purple. "FIRE!" they shouted again, louder this time.@@novelbin@@ The remaining ticket began to settle. Brown. Brown. Brown. Purple! "FIRE!" Cheers erupted as the results were revealed. Three Rank-A items from the first pull. "What a way to start the night!" Chapter 66 - Soulbinding Armor Set Blueprint [Soulbinding Armor Set Blueprint] [Grade: Elite ~ Legendary] [Armor that adapts to the user''s abilities, enhancing defense without restricting movement.] [Adaptive Alloy (150 units) Soulthread Weave (20 meters) Runestone Core (5 fragments) Mana-Infused Leather (30 units) Obsidian Dust (20 units) Optional Enhancements: Dragon Scale Shards (5 shards) Frost Core (1 crystal) Shadowsteel (10 units) Stormcore Fragments (10 units)] [Requirements: Master cksmith] As skimmed through the blueprint he had just obtained, and a lump formed in his throat as he took in the sheerplexity of the materials and processes required. But what stood out most was the blueprint''s potential¡ªit could produce items ranging from Elite to Legendary grade, far surpassing the Epic grade armor As was currently using. He quickly shared the details with Baldric and Edrik.@@novelbin@@ "Ha ha ha!" Baldricughed heartily, studying the blueprint. "This is going to be a real challenge, no doubt about it!" Edrik nodded. "As expected for an item with such immense potential. It''s no surprise the requirements are this demanding." As crossed his arms, his brow furrowed. "Do you think we can get our hands on the materials listed here?" Baldric chuckled. "Let me break this down for you. I''ll sort out what''s most feasible to obtain first. Then, we''ll figure out the trickierponents." They started with the first material: Runestone Core. These fragments would serve as the armor''s core, channeling the user''s energy to amplify its defensive properties. "These can be found in dungeons¡­ but not just any dungeon. Only ancient ones, or perhaps volcanic ruins," Baldric exined, stroking his braided beard. "Runestones react to high heat and mana density, so they often form naturally or get altered in volcanic terrains infused with magic." "But!" His eyes twinkled as he raised a finger. "Lucky for you, I''m also a Rune Master. I can craft these myself, ha ha ha!" "That''s a huge relief." Next on the list was Obsidian Dust, a material that added durability and resistance to extreme conditions, making the armor nearly impervious under pressure. "We''ll need crushed obsidian rocks, typically found near volcanic terrains," Baldric said. Edrik chimed in. "re Peak should be a reliable source for that. I''m certain we''ll find plenty there." As nodded. "Good. That''s one step closer." The next material on the list was Adaptive Alloy, a rare and versatile metal capable of adjusting its density andposition to suit the user''s movements and needs. "We can get this by smelting Chameleonite Ore," Baldric exined. "But let me tell you, this ore is ridiculously rare. It only forms in adaptive biomes or regions with fluctuating elemental activity." "Adaptive biomes?" As murmured, unfamiliar with the term. Edrik stepped in to rify. "They''re dynamic environments that alter their elemental or physical properties in response to external conditions. Rare, highly unstable, and notoriously difficult to locate." "Do you think we can find an ind like that?" "Yes," Edrik replied confidently. "If luck is on our side, we can. I''ll keep observing the nearby regions. If I spot a floating ind or anything that shows potential, I''ll report it immediately." "Good. Thanks." There were still two critical materials left to address. Next on the list was Soulthread Weave, an extraordinary magical fiber that binds directly to the user''s soul, allowing the armor to adapt its abilities and form seamlessly. "We can get it by harvesting it from Ethereal Spiders." Edrik chimed in. "Another massive homework assignment." "Yeah, but it makes sense," Baldric said. "If we manage to find an adaptive region, there''s a good chance we''ll encounter these creatures there. Let''s hope we''re lucky enough toplete the collection." "Ethereal Spiders," As repeated. "That''s a type of spirit beast," Edrik exined. As nodded slowly, piecing it together. "Lyrassa is a Nature Spirit, so these spiders must be rted to simr entities. Like the spirit beasts summoned by Soren that day?" "Exactly," Edrik confirmed. "Those were also spirit beasts." "Understood," As replied. The final required material was Mana-Infused Leather, essential for providing a flexible yet durableyer that offered bothfort and resilience inbat. "Thesee from magically enhanced beasts," Baldric exined. "Magically enhanced beasts?" As repeated. Edrik borated. "They''re creatures that have absorbed elemental or magical energy over time, usually from prolonged exposure to mana-rich environments or natural anomalies. Their hides develop unique properties as a result." Baldric chuckled, his voice booming. "If we''re lucky, we might find some on that volcanic ind we talked about earlier, ha ha ha!" Edrik added thoughtfully. "The next four materials on the blueprint are optional enhancements. But if incorporated, they could add exceptional effects to the armor." Dragon Scale Shards: Boosts fire resistance and physical strength. Frost Core: Enhances cold resistance and endurance in icy conditions. Shadowsteel: Adds stealth capabilities, making the wearer harder to detect. Stormcore Fragments: Adds chain-lightning effects to attacks and improves resistance to paralyzing effects. This wasn''t just any armor set¡ªit was an extraordinary item, with the potential to be Legendary-grade armor. If As could focus on harvesting all the required materials, the possibilities were endless. With Baldric''s unmatched expertise, the dream of outfitting his entire team with the Soulbinding Armor Set felt closer to reality. At the very least, he could aim to equip his Elite Subordinates first, ensuring his strongest allies were ready for anything. After that, the most critical troops could follow. With the discussion concluded and a solid strategy in ce, Edrik and Baldric began working together to secure sources for the necessary materials. Their primary focus was locating the adaptive region floating ind. The next four days were a flurry of activity. As and his troops remained dedicated to their training, pushing themselves to unlock their full potential. Their sessions were intense but interspersed with leveling efforts to ensure their strength kept pace with uing challenges. Meanwhile, the queued construction structures werepleted, transforming the ind''syout into a more fortified and well-organized stronghold. With eight me Beacons now fully operational, they had a robust defense system ready to incinerate any enemies that dared to invade. The Elite Subordinates worked alongside As to devise advanced strategies for the future, nning meticulously for the next four rounds of defense. Baldric, while taking the time to explore re Peak, also diligently worked on adjusting and upgrading the armor of the troops. He infused each piece with runes, enhancing their capabilities where possible. However, there was one significant issue: Most of the troops, no, but¡­ almost everyone, in fact¡ªhadn''t yet developed an elemental affinity. This meant the runes couldn''t be optimized to their full potential. Every Awakener who had reached Level 50, undergone ss Advancement, or even those nearing these milestones could begin cultivating an elemental affinity. This process was pivotal, as it allowed individuals to significantly enhance their potential. By aligning with an innate element, they could unlock tailored skills, choose artifacts, and utilize other resources designed toplement their elemental strengths. This synergy between affinity and abilities could lead to exponential growth in power, adaptability, and efficiency. Damn! The sheer amount of work ahead felt overwhelming. With so little time, he needed to prioritize carefully. His immediate target became clear: unlocking his own elemental affinity while guiding his team toward achieving theirs. And so, the Reinforcement Phase came to an end. As once again found himself facing the pivotal decision: choosing one of the four challengers whose attack he would ept on his ind. But this time, as As scanned the faces of his team, he could see it in their eyes¡ªresolve, focus, and readiness. They were more prepared than ever! Chapter 69 - Midnight Hunger As quickly continued developing his ind. He queued up new constructions, adding everything he could possibly need¡ªupgrading the residential huts, building a new quarry, a Lumber Mill, and Training Grounds. He maximized the use of avable space while ensuring some open areas remained untouched. His ind now looked noticeably better. Thetest upgrades even added a higher elevation on one side, which might serve as a perfect spot for rxing while keeping an eye on the rest of the ind. With the merging of territories from his conquests, the ind no longer resembled the barren desert it once was. It had transformed into a lively haven, with patches of grass, trees, and flowers scattered throughout, adding color and vibrancy to every corner. As approached the Gateway Altar with Edrik by his side, ready to shift his focus to this critical structure. The Gateway Altar worked simrly to a job board, allowing bids to be posted and summoning those who were interested to the ind. However, there were key details to keep in mind. The first was the type of summons, which could be either permanent or temporary. The second was the type of entities that could be summoned, divided into three main categories: normal intelligent creatures such as humans, elves, and dwarves; golems, which were artificial constructs; and spirit creatures.@@novelbin@@ Each type had specific requirements. Normal intelligent creatures were motivated mainly by wealth or power, meaning they required gold or particr items as offerings. Golems, on the other hand, mostly needed gold to be hired, as they were often crafted by others and essentially rented out¡ªfunctioning more like a lease agreement. Spirit creatures, however, were different. They were drawn to the Lord themselves rather than material offerings. It was they who chose their Lord, not the other way around. As As already knew, spirits came in many forms. Some, like Lyrassa, resemble humans, while others took on beast-like shapes¡ªor even more abstract and untamed forms. Spirits were the embodiment of countless things: emotions, environments, creatures, and a variety of phenomena, granting them extraordinary diversity in both appearance and essence. So far, As had a total of 46batants and 8 workers. Among the workers, 2 assisted in the cksmith, 2 handled ind maintenance and gardening, 2 served as the cook, and the remaining 2 took on general tasks, covering various responsibilities as needed. His main focus was building a troop of highly skilled and dependable fighters for the long term. To achieve this, he wanted to maintain their numbers efficiently while prioritizing their quality and development. For now, 46 was a solid number, especially since they were supported by his Elite Subordinates, who were strong enough to cover multiple roles when necessary. What he needed next was more workers. With the ind expanding in size and its poption steadily increasing, the demand for workers to keep everything running smoothly was only going to grow. "Once you activate the Gateway Altar, it will automatically share your profile locally or even to another world if the portal is open and summon creatures from there." Edrik exined. "Sounds risky," As muttered. "Not your actual identity," Edrik rified. "It''s more like a simplified profile without revealing your location. And this only affects Spirits." As frowned, still unsure. "Think of it like casting bait," Edrik exined. "When a Spirit passes by and takes the bait, they''lle here." "Does that mean an unpredictable number could show up?" As asked. "No. That''s why you can set limits¡ªlike their role, level, grade, and other criteria. You can also reject them if they don''t meet your standards." "Do I have to pay anything to invite Spirits here?" "They consume the area''s mana, so don''t summon too many at once." "Got it," As said with a nod. As immediately discussed with Edrik the type of Spirits they might need, focusing on fighter types or even Spirit Beasts with elements that couldplement the individuals already on the ind. Unfortunately, As had not yet unlocked his elemental affinity, so he couldn''t take advantage of this option just yet. Next, he ced a bid to summon around 10 golem workers to help manage various tasks across the ind. For summoning Normal Intelligent Creatures, Edrik suggested waiting until As achieved a higher rank. This would allow him to attract more skilled and valuable recruits by capitalizing on the stronger reputation he would build through his victories. With everything set, As now just had to wait for the construction queue toplete and the Summon Bid to be processed and answered. The next day, as usual, they refocused on training, with their favorite destination being re Peak. So far, there had been asional encounters with troops from other Lords visiting the ind, but both sides stayed within their own territories, avoiding further interaction. It was an unspoken rule among Lords: to prevent conflict on unupied inds, one must refrain from interfering in another Lord''s business. After all, no one truly knew the strength of their opponent or how much backup they could summon. Moreover, battles fought outside the floating inds would only harm both sides. Their forces would be weakened, yet they wouldn''t gain any rewards. Such a loss could prove dangerous in their next real battle. After more than a week of training, As had grown used to relying on senses other than sight. He could now confidently traverse the volcanic terrain without using his vision. It was only through such intense practice that he discovered this capability, something he never would have thought possible otherwise. Even so, one thing was clear¡ªhe was still far from the goals he had set for himself. There was so much more to achieve, and he wasn''t nning to slow down anytime soon. The next morning, Mira''s voice called from outside his room. As quickly stepped out and followed the bunny girl, who was pointing toward the Gateway Altar. A glowing magic circle had appeared, with a circr portal beginning to form above it. So, the Gateway Altar was finally reacting, and he was about to receive his first worker summons. They waited for a moment until a figure began to materialize on the stone altar. It was a being with a body crafted from smooth stone, its eyes sparkling like glimmering crystals. [Glowstone Golem] Though its height only reached about half of As''s, it was clear the golem was capable of movement, with well-formed hands and fingers that appeared fully functional. "The golem is quite cute," he thought. As smiled as he watched the figure step down from the altar and approach him. Curious about the golem''s capabilities, he stood back as more began to emerge. Each one shared a simr design, their forms crafted in a consistent style. Soon, there were ten of them. Just as Edrik had exined, when summoning worker-ss golems like these, they were typically provided by a single individual or organization, which was why they all shared the same appearance. Edrik quickly assisted As in analyzing the golems, exining that they could be controlled either through a panel or by voicemands. Without hesitation, As shared ess control with Edrik alone. Soon after, the ten golems were assigned different tasks and dispersed across the ind. "Yeah! I have more friends to help with my carrot garden now!" Mira shouted excitedly. "Mira¡­" As said, drawing the bunny girl''s bright, cheerful gaze toward him. "Please make sure you nt other types of vegetables too, and anything else people can eat, okay?" "All right, my lord!" Mira replied with a wide smile. Late at night, right at midnight, As was preparing to rest, his body exhausted from the grueling training. Just as he was about to settle in, a knock came at his door. Who could it be? he wondered, forcing himself up and heading to answer. When he opened the door, he was surprised to find¡­ Morganna standing there. Morganna? She looked at him briefly, then nced away. What does she need? "I need¡­" she whispered softly. "I need your blood," she finally admitted. When had shest fed on his blood? More than a week ago, if he was remembering right. But this time¡­ she didn''t look weak or on the brink of copse like before. She seemed fine¡ªtoo fine. Was it just hunger driving her now? As held her gaze, then nodded slowly. Without a word, he reached for her hand, guiding her inside and closing the door behind them. Because¡­ yes¡­ he was hungry too. *** (Author''s Note:) I need your support to keep the story alive. Creating these worlds and characters takes time, effort, and resources, and every bit of help makes a difference. ess character art, chapter illustrations, and advanced chapters for free and exclusive content on Patreon p4tr30n[dot/gnteo Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 71 - Ironclad Will Another defense victory¡ªanother total win, as Morganna managed to y the enemy Lord. Even so, this was just the beginning. They were still in the early phases, so it was no surprise that many of the opponents they faced were inexperienced and unprepared. There was still a long road ahead. The next morning, As wasted no time and dove back into his training. Since he had grown ustomed to running without his vision, Kurogasa decided it was time to push him further. That day, Baldric introduced a special set of armor for As to wear during his training. The armor wasn''t just heavy¡ªit weighed about 100 kilograms (220 pounds). It also insted him from the surrounding air, blocking any sensation of temperature on his skin. This meant he couldn''t use his sense of touch to detect heat. But at least it would protect him fromva, right? Wrong. If the armor came into direct contact with solid or liquid heat sources, the intense temperature would transfer into the armor, making it unbearably hot. No vision. No sense of touch. And now, the weight of a 100-kilogram suit? As knew from the start this training would only get harder. But giving up? That wasn''t even an option. Let''s go! As pushed himself to run, relying on his sense of smell and hearing to navigate the training. It was anything but easy¡ªhe fell repeatedly, his body burned, and the pain was excruciating. Yet he kept going. He forced himself forward, even as his mental strength was stretched to the brink of copse. As long as his resolve held, he believed he could ovee this. As becamepletely immersed in the training. By nightfall, he was too drained to join the others for their usual bonding sessions. Instead, he copsed into a deep sleep, utterly spent from exhaustion. But was he bing so consumed by this brutal regimen that he was neglecting other important aspects of his life?@@novelbin@@ Had he been treating everyone as they deserved? So far, Edrik had been managing everything on the ind¡ªhandling the troops'' needs, organizing them, and overseeing the ind''s operations. Edrik worked tirelessly, almost like a secretary running the entire domain, while As remainedser-focused on his training. But wasn''t this necessary? His goal was to be stronger, wasn''t it? He couldn''t afford to ck off. He had to get stronger. Stronger! On the third day, As started to show real progress. He could now run while relying on his sense of smell and hearing with greater precision, making fewer mistakes as he navigated the treacherous terrain. But on the fourth day, damn Kurogasa¡ªhe deliberately chose a route with even more flowingva than before. Another day, another round of pure torture. It was a week filled with relentless pain and exhaustion. By the sixth day, though, As had adapted. He managed toplete his 20ps without falling into theva once. Copsing onto the ground,pletely spent, he tore off the armor that had been suffocating his overheated body. As panted heavily as Edrik, Kurogasa, and Lyrassa approached him. Surprisingly, Lyrassa didn''t immediately panic and rush to heal him like she usually did. "You made it just in time before our next battle begins," Edrik said with a grin. "Yeah¡­ another level of training," As replied, chuckling weakly. "I wonder if after this, my other senses will be shut off too?" he added with a wryugh. Just as he spoke, his vision filled with notifications. [Congrattions on the achievement.] [Two of your talents have advanced rapidly and synchronized.] [Unyielding Resolve and Immutable Discipline have sessfully merged.] [You have acquired a new merged talent: Irond Will (Rank S)] [The fusion of mental and physical fortitude creates an unshakable focus, enabling peak performance under even the most extreme conditions.] [Effect: Dramatically reduces the effects of fear, exhaustion, and mental attacks. Grants enhanced stamina and minor regeneration when operating under intense pressure.] As smiled to himself, feeling a rush of satisfaction. His grueling training was finally starting to bear fruit. [Irond Will (S) - Tactical Awareness (A) - Instinctual Command (A) - Perfected Rhythm (A) - Commanding Presence (S) - Bloodbound Vigor (S)] As reviewed the six talents he now possessed: three at Rank-S and three at Rank-A. This left him with one remaining talent slot, which he might unlock at some point in the future. Normally, individuals could develop a focus for up to seven talent slots. As talents evolved, merged, or progressed, a new talent could arise and register in their system. That didn''t mean people were limited to just seven talents. They could possess many more, but only seven were dominant and registered in the system, making them easier to develop based on training and focus. Of course, not all talents were useful. Karian''s talent for snoring or Edrik''s "perfect hair" talent weren''t exactly game-changers. But then again, not every talent needed to be practical, right? At least with his current progress, As saw the potential to build morebat-oriented talents. He needed every edge he could gain¡ªafter all, his priority was to improve as much as possible before hitting level 50. Reaching level 50 was indeed a significant bottleneck for most people. The experience required for each level grew exponentially, while the experience gained from killing monsters remained frustratingly small. It took hundreds of monster kills just to gain a single level. For this reason, many Awakeners at this stage turned to dungeons. Dungeons offered much higher experience rewards, making the time spent hunting far more efficient. However, dungeons were far from safe. Once inside, if a group became overwhelmed by monsters or challenges, there was a real risk of losing their lives. Thinking about dungeons, As found himself wondering. Should he push himself to tackle a dungeon to speed up his progress to level 50? Another battle came, but this time As and Edrik intentionally allowed the troops to handle the fight on their own, testing the results of their training. It was an all-out battle for each of them. While some suffered severe injuries, they ultimately secured victory in their fourth defense. However, this time the enemy Lord managed to escape. As chose not to pursue, deciding instead to save his remaining Attack Token for selecting his next opponent more strategically. [You have advanced to Seeker Division 3.] [The current list of challengers has been cleared due to division mismatch.] [You now have 1 challenger slot avable.] [Gacha Haven has entered the Reinforcement Phase. The fallback cooldown willst for 7 days.] Gacha Haven had advanced to Division 3, bringing him closer to the top of the Seeker rank. With a total of five divisions, if he could maintain his momentum, he might reach Rank-2 Scout in the next season of Lord Battles. However, rapid progression came with its risks. The higher the division and rank, the more formidable and experienced the opponents became. It was evident that future enemies couldn''t be approached the same way as the earlier ones. Every adversary in these divisions had fought through numerous battles and earned their ce through hard-won victories. Still, one thing remained certain for As: he had to keep training. At this point, his dedication to improvement was so relentless that his next talent might as well be called Training Maniac. But this time, his training had truly reached a new level of insanity. As now had to wear a helmet thatpletely blocked out all his senses¡ªno vision, no hearing, no smell, and no touch. Did people actually train this hard? Was this crossing the line into madness? If he couldn''t use any of his senses, how the hell was he supposed to run or detect his surroundings?! Chapter 73 - Instinctive Elemental Sense As remained motionless, staring at the faint particles that had begun to appear around him, visible even without his vision. Curiosity overtook him as he sat up, observing the floating particles intently. His hand reached out, and as he touched them, the particles shifted, their flow disturbed by his movements. Every time he waved his hand, they swirled and altered their paths, some drifting aimlessly in the air while others rose steadily upward. Elemental particles! Recognition dawned on him. These were the same particles that every Awakener would eventually sense during the early stages of gaining affinity with Mana. However, those particles were usually pale white, representing pure Mana. What As was seeing now were different¡ªthese were elemental particles, each one tied to a specific element in nature, their colors distinct and vibrant. He stood slowly, taking in the glowing lights around him. The reddish particles clustered near theva he had stepped in earlier, while faint brownish particles hovered over the solid ground he stood upon. I can use these! Excitement surged through him. He could use these elemental particles to guide him through this sensory void. Yes! I''ve found the way! As pushed himself to run again, despite his body feeling numb and deadened from the relentless pain. He could no longer feel anything¡ªonly the faint embers of determination driving him forward. Yes, I can do it. I can do it! There! Ahead was a stream ofva. He slowed his pace, carefully feeling out the edge with his feet. The faint reddish particles floating above the molten river guided him as he gauged the distance. He braced himself, bending his knees, and then leaped with all his strength. His body soared through the air. And¡ª Hended on solid ground. Rolling across the dirt, he stopped andy there for a moment, stunned. But he had done it. He had leaped over the stream ofva! He did it! He fucking did it! With renewed determination, As got up and kept running. He could finish this training. He could ovee it all. The elite subordinates and troops watched from afar, their eyes fixed on their Lord. Many of the troops sat slumped on the ground, too exhausted to move. Not a single one had touched any food all day, even though the night had long since fallen. Zara, sitting at the front, nced at Milo, who was nervously shuffling his cards. "Mr. Milo¡­ tell me¡­" Zara said softly. Since Zara, the team leader of the Aether team, had been assigned Milo as their Supervisor, she''d grown surprisinglyfortable talking with him. Despite Milo''s usual reluctance to give satisfying answers, she seemed unfazed. They all found it odd how Zara could approach Milo so casually, especially considering the man was infamous for hulking out if anyone touched him. "Y-yess¡­ Za-Zara¡­" Milo stammered. "Isn''t it true that someone can learn to detect elemental particles through meditation?" Zara asked. "And that this method also helps them build elemental affinity?" "U-uhm¡­ uhm¡­" Milo fumbled, his face twitching as he tried to form a coherent response. "With training this hard¡­ someone could¡­ uhm¡­" "Let me exin." Before he could finish, a sharp, clear voice cut in. Turning, they saw a figure in a sleek ck suit with perfectly styled hair standing nearby. It was Edrik. Edrik always had a way of exining things clearly, which was why the troops immediately perked up, listening intently to his words. "Someone can indeed sense elemental particles through meditation," Edrik began. "And through this method, they can build or unlock their elemental affinity. There''s nothing wrong with that statement. It''s also something all of you will be able to do soon to unlock your own elemental affinities."@@novelbin@@ He paused, ncing at the group, who were wide-eyed and hanging on to his every word. "However," he continued, "what Master Kurogasa is having the Lord undergo isn''t about meditation. Master Kurogasa wants the Lord to experience elemental particles through struggle, suffering, and extreme pressure. Under these conditions, the Lord will develop an unconscious¡ªor instinctive¡ªability to sense elemental particles, especially in moments of danger." He let the weight of his words sink in before continuing. "When done correctly¡ªthough the method is undeniably harsh, extremely harsh¡ªit can result in stronger elemental affinity, deeper connections with multiple elements, and the potential to develop unique skills or talents. These will serve as the foundation for the Lord''s future growth." He finished his exnation with a piercing gaze. "The point is simple: the harder you suffer in training, the better the results." Edrik''s cold, unyielding eyes swept over the group, making everyone swallow hard. Were they going to have to endure the same training?! Hell no! No way! How long did it take As to finish just onep? It felt like forever. By the time the clock struck midnight, everyone was still there, still awake. Many were on the verge of copsing from exhaustion, their heads bobbing as they fought against sleep, but they refused to leave. They swallowed hard and shook their heads in disbelief as they watched their Lord train. What was this man made of? His mental fortitude was unreal. He had endured this hellish training from morning until now, well past midnight. There''s no way he''s human. He''s a robot! Some troops couldn''t take it anymore and fell asleep where they sat, while others kept pushing themselves to stay awake¡ªespecially the team leaders, who remained seated and waiting. Zara, as usual, was trying to strike up conversation with Milo, her efforts gradually calming the nervous man. The pace of his card shuffling slowed down. Morning finally arrived. And there he was¡ªthe Lord, still running. Still failing. From yesterday to now, a full 24 hours of relentless hell, unable to see, feel, or sense anything, with no idea when this torment would finally end. But that morning, just as doubts began to creep into the minds of the troops¡ªwondering if their Lord could everplete this training¡ªsomething changed. As started running faster. His movements grew sharper, his strides more confident. He ran, jumped, andnded. He finished the firstp. Without stopping, he turned and began sprinting toward the next section. The troops, who had been watching in tense silence, erupted into cheers. They stood, pping and shouting. Their Lord had done it! He had seeded... the firstp! Neen more to go. The other troops continued refusing to eat until their Lord ate as well. Instead of resting, they demanded to begin their own training immediately. They should have been exhausted¡ªstarving from not eating and drained fromck of sleep. Yet, for some reason, a determination coursed through their bodies, fueling them with a resolve. Without hesitation, they threw themselves into their training once more. By the time evening rolled around, everyone gathered again, waiting with bated breath as As neared the end of his grueling challenge. Finally, Aspleted his 20thp. His steps faltered, and his body copsed forward¡ªstraight into Edrik, who caught him before he could hit the ground. "You made it, As," Edrik said. "You made it, My Lord." The troops couldn''t hold back any longer. Tears streamed down their faces as they watched their Lord, utterly spent but victorious. Some fell to their knees, bowing in deep respect to the man who had endured this hellish training. He was only level 46, born with an F-rank trashbat talent, and yet he had pushed himself beyond all limits. Even though he was just an ordinary human, no different from the rest of them! He had done it. Against all odds, he had done it! [You''ve developed new Skill: Epic-grade Instinctive Elemental Sense] [Type: Passive Skill] [Provides intuitive knowledge of elemental particle movement, enabling seamless navigation and reaction to elemental energy without conscious effort.] Chapter 75 - Dominion Over the Elements That seemed¡­ unbelievable! As stared at the notifications, which continued to flood his vision, revealing more of the changes within him. [You have unlocked a new Talent: Rank-S Elemental Dominion] [Mastery over elemental forces allows control of fire, water, earth, and air inbat. These elements respond instinctively, amplifying attacks or creating defensive shields.] [Effect: Offensive strikes gain elemental enhancements. Automatically creates a defensive shield of the dominant element in the area, reducing iing damage.] He rose from his bed, his senses sharper than ever. For the first time, he could distinctly feel the elemental particles swirling throughout the room¡ªeach type vibrant and alive in his awareness.@@novelbin@@ Clenching both his fists, As mentallymanded the elemental particles around him. Instantly, his hands became enveloped in a glowing aura. Four elemental affinities at once?! He couldn''t believe it. He could feel the fire''s heat, the coolness of water, the steady weight of earth, and the lightness of air all at hismand. This was immense, far beyond anything he''d expected. Unbelievable! If the sharing vitality process was this powerful, then he needed to make the most of it. This wasn''t just a boost¡ªit was a transformation. He had to harness every ounce of this newfound power! [You have unlocked a new skill: Epic-grade Elemental Convergence (Active, Versatile)] [Temporarily fuses two elements for powerfulbined effects.] [You have unlocked a new skill: Epic-grade Lifebound Shield (Passive, Defensive)] [Creates a natural barrier that absorbs a portion of iing damage and converts it into health regeneration over time.] Two Epic-grade skills?! Reading the descriptions alone made As''s heart race. Combining two elements to create devastating effects? Damn! The possibilities were endless, and the potential strength of this skill was beyond exciting. But he knew better than to assume it was something he could master instantly. Even in a world of skills, the only way to wield them effectively was through dedicated practice. He would need to train hard to bring out the full power of Elemental Convergence. And then there was Lifebound Shield. A barrier that not only absorbed damage but also converted it into health regeneration? That was a game-changer. As paused, frowning slightly. The nature of this skill¡ªit felt eerily simr to the ability he''d inherited from Morganna. Could this be because of the influence of his bond with her? The influence of his connections with Morganna could be shaping his growth, creating synergies between the abilities he acquired. [Irond Will (S) - Tactical Awareness (A) - Instinctual Command (A) - Perfected Rhythm (A) - Elemental Dominion (S) - Commanding Presence (S) - Bloodbound Vigor (S)] As inspected his overall talents again, a sense of excitement building each time he reviewed them. He now possessed four Rank-S talents! The thought of what other talents might evolve or merge in the future filled him with anticipation. With this current set of talents, he was clearly shaping into a Lord who didn''t just excel in his leadership role, but who also embodied a relentless drive for progress. The extraordinary talents he now possessed were pushing hisbat potential to levels he hadn''t imagined before. On top of that, he now had two powerful skills that allowed him to fully exploit his elemental affinity¡ªand with control over all four basic elements no less. This foundation alone could serve as an incredible stepping stone for his future development. But something felt¡­ off. The swirling energy within him hadn''t settled. His heart still beat faster than normal, and his blood felt like it was rushing through his veins with an unnatural intensity, carrying energy that refused to dissipate. It was strange, not that he was about toin either. Then, another set of notifications appeared in his vision. [Additional changes have been detected.] [Your physical and mental capacities have adapted to amodate further growth.] [Body Modifications and Synchronization with Morganna and Lyrassa''s Bond Have Altered Your Body] [You have unlocked Elemental Markings (Verdant Shadow)] [Description: Glowing, vine-like markings appear on your back, shifting with a dualyered design. A subtle shadowy underglowplements the vibrant patterns.] [Effects:] [- Elemental Amplification: Markings glow brighter in high-elemental environments, boosting elemental attack potency.] [- Shadow-Infused Underglow: Activates in darkness, granting stealth bonuses and increased critical damage in dim conditions.] Wait, what is this? Elemental Markings? As reached for his back, where he felt the strongest flow of energy, but his hand found nothing unusual to touch. Curious, he approached the standing mirror in the corner of the room and turned to check his reflection. And there it was¡ªhis back. Glowing vine-like markings spread across his skin, pulsating with a green hue. Interwoven among the vines were subtle shadowy tendrils, exuding a faint, smoky aura. Thin streaks of crimson energy pulsed through the design, like veins of blood running beneath the surface. As froze for a moment, staring at the pattern. Was this permanent? But as he stood there, the markings began to fade, their light dimming until they disappeared entirely. It seemed they only activated under certain conditions. Relieved but intrigued, As allowed a small smile to form. He couldn''t deny¡ªthe design was impressive, even beautiful in its own way. So, Morganna and Lyrassa had truly left their mark on him. Thebination of their influences had granted him an extraordinary upgrade, transforming him almost instantly. Their contrasting powers¡ªMorganna''s shadowy, vampiric resilience and Lyrassa''s life-giving vitality¡ªhad merged within him, creating a bnce that amplified his abilities. As paused, rolling his shoulders and flexing his limbs, marveling at howpletely his body had recovered. He jumped a few times, feeling a newfound lightness, as if he could leap twice as high as before. On his next jump, his head almost touched the ceiling, and he burst intoughter. Haha! He couldn''t help but enjoy this newfound power. It felt so natural, like his body instinctively knew how to amplify his movements with elemental energy. The potential of this ability seemed boundless, and he couldn''t wait to explore just how far it could take him. But then a thought struck him¡ªa realization. If he had unlocked this much power, would his training escte to even greater levels of brutality? Probably. The idea made himugh again. Even the thought of harsher training didn''t feel daunting anymore¡ªit felt like a challenge he could embrace. Still, there was one thing nagging at his curiosity: his elemental affinity status. Just how much had it changed? There were 4mon elements¡ªwater, earth, air, and fire¡ªand 2 special elements¡ªdark and light. Each element had its own advanced versions. For example, earth could evolve into advanced elements like Metal or Gravity, while fire could advance to Inferno. And there were countless others. On top of that, elements could bebined, creating entirely new ones. Earth and fire could merge to form Magma, and that was just the beginning of the endless possibilities. Theplexity of advanced andbination elements was overwhelming, far beyond what As fully understood. Additionally, each element had affinity tiers: Low, Medium, and High. From what he knew, thanks to Lyrassa, he had unlocked all 4 basicmon elements. But what he needed now was to confirm their affinity status. "Jackpot, show me my elemental affinity status." The system responded immediately, disying the information he sought. Chapter 76 - Water, Dark, and Beyond [Elemental Affinities Status:] [Basic Common:] [ - Water: High] [ - Earth: Low] [ - Fire: Low] [ - Air: Low] [Basic Special:] [ - Dark: High] [Advanced:] [ - Shadow: High] [ - Blood: Low] As stood still for a moment, staring at the list of Elemental Affinities he now possessed. How the hell¡­? He had already known about his affinities with the four basicmon elements. But Dark? And its advanced forms? Among the four basic elements, he discovered he had High Affinity with Water, which came as a surprise. After all, most of his recent training had been in volcanic terrain, seemingly tied to fire. However, elemental affinity wasn''t strictly based on one''s environment¡ªit was often rooted in innate traits. Perhaps his natural inclination toward Water had always been there. Then there was the High Affinity with Dark, a special element. There was no doubt in his mind that this had been influenced by Morganna. But even more shocking was the inclusion of Shadow, the advanced form of Dark. Not only did he have ess to it, but he also had High Affinity with it. Finally, there was Blood, another advanced element clearly stemming from Morganna''s influence. While his affinity here was only Low, it still marked a significant milestone¡ªhe had already secured two advanced elements. ording to what he knew, even a single advanced element, like Blood, could be formed through the fusion of multiple elements. For instance, it could be abination of Water + Dark or Water + Earth, depending on how the user focused on utilizing and manipting the elements. There was so much he still needed to learn. But at the very least, he had opened more doors to mastering a broader range of abilities. Take everything step by step. Slowly but surely. Now, he was curious. He wanted to test how his affinity for these elements would enhance his fighting style. As stepped outside, squinting slightly as the sunlight hit his eyes. He took a moment to survey his ind, now fully green with grass and blooming flowers spreading in every direction. Mira and the workers were busy tending to various tasks, while the golems moved about, hauling rocks and wood to designated areas. It struck him how unfortunate it would be if an attack damaged the beauty of this thriving ce. "Hi, My Lord!" Mira called out from afar. She ran up to him with a bright smile, stopping in front of him with a mix of excitement and innocence. "My Lord, are you feeling better?" "Yes," As replied, holding up his arms. "See? I''m full of vitality!" It was only then that he realized he was still only wearing a pair of shorts. Mira giggled. "Those are some impressive muscles, My Lord."@@novelbin@@ Embarrassed, As quickly applied an outfit from the system, his new clothes materializing instantly. "Are the others out training?" "Yes," Mira said with a nod before tilting her head slightly. "Do you need my assistance with anything, My Lord?" "No, I''m fine, Mira," he said, smiling warmly. "I just want to train for a bit myself." "Alright~" she replied with a yful tone. As made his way to a small hill, a peaceful area with an iron bench beneath the shade of a tree. Nearby, there were tables and chairs for rxing, but the space was alsorge enough for training. He took out his spear, Fang of Infernos, holding it firmly. Faintly, his eyes caught sight of the subtle elemental particles emanating from the weapon. The spear, inherently imbued with fire, leaned toward aggressive, fiery attacks. But what if he applied water to it? With his High Affinity for Water, As focused his energy. Gradually, the water elemental particles in the surrounding air became visible, clearer and more distinct as they responded to his will. He steadied his breathing, and soon the particles began to envelop him, cascading around his body like a flowing current. They wrapped around him¡ªand then, the spear. Holding his spear with renewed energy, he began to spin it, thrust it forward, strike, sweep, leap, and sh. His movements were fluid, continuous, and precise, the influence of the water element enhancing his agility and spearwork. The strikes felt smoother, faster, and more dynamic, as though the weapon itself danced with him. With a stronger strike, As focused more power into the spear. This time, a visible trail of water followed the weapon''s movements, and when it struck the ground, the impact created a ssh of water that scattered in all directions. [Epic - Elemental Convergence (Active, Versatile)] [Elite - Flurry of Spears Lv. 2] Eager to push further, As attacked again, this time putting even more force into his strikes. The spear thrusted with incredible speed, and as it moved, faint steam began to rise from the weapon''s tip, spreading outward in waves. The Steam Element had formed¡ªabination of Water and Fire. As grinned, spinning the spear andunching a series of attacks. The steam swirled with each motion, creating an effect that was mesmerizing. The new talent he had unlocked allowed him to infuse elements into his attacks and cloak himself with an elemental shield. Focusing for a moment, As activated the shield. A faint aura of elemental energy enveloped his body, shimmering softly with his chosen affinity. He smiled faintly, knowing this was just the surface of the potential this ability held. He was well aware of how far high-level Awakeners could go in utilizing elements inbat. Now, with his diverse elemental affinities, he had the potential to explore a wide array of skills tailored to various elements. He could aim to master techniques like Shadow Mirage, creating duplicates of himself just as Kurogasa did, or hone stealth abilities and other advanced covert techniques. Hell, he might even learn how to fly someday¡ªwhy not? Just thinking about the possibilities was thrilling. As had less than 48 hours before facing his final challenger. After that, he could either take some time to fallback and train further or use hisst remaining Attack Token to push ahead. But his priority was clear¡ªhe needed to reach level 50 first and secure his Advanced ss before advancing to Rank-2 Scout. As night fell, the troops returned from their training with energized expressions. This was a stark contrast to how they used to drag themselves back, utterly exhausted. Their rigorous sessions at re Peak were paying off, and many of them were slowly leveling up. The next step involved helping more of them unlock their Elemental Affinities. Some had already achieved this during training, their bodies instinctively adapting to the intense elemental environment. Baldric, the massive dwarf cksmith, had been hard at work crafting armor for nearly everyone. From heavy te to lighter, more agile designs, all the troops were now equipped with better protection. For weapons, the troops had armed themselves with gear earned through their hunts at re Peak. Gacha Haven and its troops were improving steadily. That night, as usual, they gathered for dinner,ughter, and entertainment, their spirits high. Meanwhile, As found himself mulling over his 50 Standard Tickets, which came with a guaranteed Rank-S pull if he used them all. What if I do another 30-pull before the battle in two days? It might just give him another crucial edge before the fight. Chapter 79 - Echoes in an Empty Hallway Mira sat quietly at her desk, sneaking out a handkerchief to wipe her face as discreetly as possible. As, seated on the desk in front of her, was still clenching his fists tightly. Damn it! This is her past, isn''t it? The realization only added to his frustration. He couldn''t intervene, couldn''t change anything¡ªhe could only watch. A few momentster, another student entered the ssroom. This one was also a beastkin, sporting wavy blonde hair and a pair of perked-up ears. What kind of ears are those? A wolf? It was a wolf girl, and an undeniably cute one at that. "Hey, Fenra''s here!" someone called out. "Good morning, Fenra..." The beastkin girl, Fenra, entered with a bright, cheerful expression and a smile that was¡­ cute? "Hi, everyone! Good morning!" Fenra greeted. "Whew, I''m d I didn''t end upte! My driver had a hard time earlier¡ªthe traffic was awful." "Yeah, Fenra, the roads were a mess today." "And Fenra¡ªcongrattions on your S score!" another student chimed in. "Oh, yeah, xi xi xi," Fenra replied, giggling. "Yes, I got another S score, but, you know, it''s not a big deal or anything. No need to fuss over it!" Fenra''s eyes widened when she noticed Mira. "Oh? What happened to her?" "Ignore her, Fenra. She''s useless." Ignoring the remark, Fenra approached Mira and leaned down slightly, bringing her face closer. "Mira... what happened to you?" she asked softly. Mira shook her head, avoiding eye contact. "Are you sure? Do you need anything? Tell me. Can I help you with something?" "No, thanks. I''m fine," Mira replied, finally lifting her head with a faint, forced smile. Could this wolf girl actually be kind to her? Throughout the lesson, Mira sat silently in her seat. To As''s growing frustration, the teacher didn''t seem to notice¡ªor care. Not once did they acknowledge Mira''s condition. Are they blind or just in stupid? It''s painfully obvious that one of their students is far from okay. Damn it. This school deserves to be razed to the ground! When the lunch break arrived, Mira quietly picked up her lunchbox and, with her head bowed, quickly left the ssroom. Should I follow her? As hesitated for a moment as Mira disappeared through the door. Yet, he realized he could still remain in the room. Wait... isn''t this Mira''s memory? He frowned. Then why can I stay here, even though she''s not? The inexplicable situation left him unsettled, but he decided to observe a little longer, trying to make sense of the strange rules of this memory. The wolf girl, still seated at her desk, was soon approached by a group of her peers, both boys and girls. "Fenra, want to eat lunch with me?" "Fenra, you were amazing earlier during ss!" But this time, Fenra''s usual cheerful demeanor had shifted. Her face pouted slightly. "What''s wrong? Did something upset you?" asked a boy standing nearby. "Yes, something did¡­" Fenra replied. "Let me handle it for you." "I know you wouldn''t dare." "How far do you want me to take it?"@@novelbin@@ "The worse, the better. The worst!" Fenra said. Then, without another word, she stood up and walked out of the room. The boy, now joined by a couple of others, remained behind. What are these pieces of trash nning?! As''s frustration boiled over as he mmed his fist on the desk, but it didn''t make a sound or anything else. Damn it! This is driving me insane! After leaving the ssroom, As continued to follow Mira as she found a quiet spot to eat lunch alone. Once she finished her meal, she pulled out a book and began reading. She even took notes, her handwriting neat and precise as she carefully recorded her thoughts in a notebook. The scene was such a striking contrast that As couldn''t help but take notice. This girl¡­ she''s smart. She was nothing like the Mira he knew. As sat nearby, watching her with growing intrigue. Her serious expression seemed to glow with brilliance as she studied, entirely engrossed in her work. It was clear she enjoyed learning,pletely absorbed in what she was doing. Right now, As felt like he was watching a movie in 4D. He was there, in the moment, but utterly powerless to intervene. What made it worse was that the main character of this painful story was someone he knew¡ªa realization that only deepened his frustration. When the school day ended, a group of students approached Mira''s desk. Without a hint of courtesy, they piled books on top of her table. "Hey, take these to the teacher''s office," one of them ordered. "He was on the 8th floor." "And if any of them go missing or get torn, we''ll make sure you regret it," another added. Mira stepped out of the ssroom, carrying a stack of books as she walked down the now-empty hallways. Most of the students had already gone home. She continued up the stairs, heading to the upper floors. Is the teacher''s office really up there? As wondered, his steps matching hers as he followed. When she reached the top, a group of male students stood leaning casually against the wall. As recognized them instantly¡ªthey were the same boys from her ss earlier. Oh, damn it! Rage bubbled in his chest. Can I please break out of this observation mode and kill them?! Seriously! As Mira walked past with her head down, trying to avoid their gaze, the boys suddenly moved. One of them grabbed her from behind, while another mped a hand over her mouth to stifle her scream. Mira struggled, her muffled cries for help echoing faintly in the empty corridor, but she was powerless against them. The three boys dragged her into an empty ssroom. Damn it! Are you kidding me?! The books Mira had been carryingy scattered on the floor as the boys dragged her deeper into the ssroom. As stormed in after them, his jaw clenched and fury radiating from his very being. He watched helplessly as they threw Mira to the floor. Before she could even gather herself, two of the boys grabbed her arms, pinning her in ce, while the third shoved her roughly against the floor. As''s fists clenched so tightly that he could almost feel his nails digging into his palms, even in this immaterial form. This has gone too far! "Please! Don''t do it!" Mira pleaded, her voice trembling with desperation. "Shut up, or we''ll make it even worse for you." "Close the door properly," another ordered. "We can''t let anyone hear us." "It''s fine," the third assured with a smirk. "Everything''s taken care of." Mira struggled, twisting and jerking to break free, but she was no match for them. They stuffed a cloth into her mouth, muffling her cries, her terrified eyes welling with tears as her body shook uncontrobly. Damn it! Damn it! These bastards! "System! Jackpot!" As roared, his voice trembling with rage. You''re going to let me watch this happen right in front of me without letting me do anything?! Damn it! This is madness! Let me out of this memory! Let me into her world so I can destroy these worthless pieces of trash! As stood there, powerless and seething with fury, as one of the boys yanked at Mira''s zer. The buttons popped off, ttering to the floor and rolling away. She fought back, twisting and struggling with all her strength, but it wasn''t enough. Her body was shoved down harder, her arms pinned firmly by the boys on either side of her. Mira''s muffled cries of resistance echoed in As''s mind, her tear-streaked face and frantic attempts to escape only fueling his rage. Yet all he could do was watch, trapped in his intangible state, as the nightmare unfolded before him. DAMN IT!!!! As roared, his voice booming with pure, unfiltered rage. But just as his furious cry echoed in the room, it was suddenly drowned out by the agonized scream of one of the boys. "ARGH! ARGH! ARGH!" Chapter 81 - Bloodshed and Blossoms DAD!!! MOM!!! Mira''s scream tore through the room. Her hands clenched into fists, her muscles tensing as veins bulged along her arms. Wait¡­ did they actually kill her parents?! Damn it¡­ What the hell?! Are they serious? Did they really kill them?! This little piece of trashmanded them to murder her parents?! As'' fury burned hot, but all he could do was watch as Mira''s grief turned to something darker. Her eyes glowed a deep, crimson red, and razor-sharp ws emerged from her fingers. Is she¡­ a rabbit or a wolf? "What?! What''s happening to her?!" the bandaged boy shouted, his voice cracking with panic. "Hold her down! Don''t let her escape!" The men hesitated for a split second, unnerved by the sudden transformation, but they began moving toward her. Mira broke free in an instant, her movements sharp. She hissed, baring her sharp teeth as the six men quickly closed in, surrounding her. As remained still, watching intently, his mind racing. What will the oue of this be? It was clear that none of the six men were Awakened¡ªordinary humans. But Mira, in this state, was anything but ordinary. She had be feral, her instincts taking overpletely. One of the men lunged at her, but she darted to the side with speed as she evaded his grasp. Before they could regroup, she leapt behind another of her attackers. "Help! Someone help me!" the man shouted in terror, but it was toote. Mira''s ws drove deep into his neck, her hand gripping his throat. Blood sprayed violently, sttering across the room as the man copsed, gurgling, to the floor. The bandaged boy panicked, turning to flee toward the door. But Mira moved faster. She darted toward him. One of the men mmed her to the ground, but she sprang back to her feet almost instantly, grabbing the boy''s leg and yanking it hard enough to send him sprawling. Three of the other men rushed her at once, attempting to pin her down. But Mira was too fast. She twisted and leapt, flipping through the air to avoid their grasp. As shended, she propelled herself onto one of the remaining men, her ws plunging brutally into his neck. Blood spurted from the wound as the man copsed, choking. She continued her assault, her body moving with terrifying agility, darting from one target to the next. Each time she struck, her ws tore through flesh with precision. One by one, the men fell to the floor, their bodies lifeless and blood pooling beneath them. The room fell silent, save for the terrified gasps of the bandaged boy. He pressed himself against the door, his eyes wide with fear, trembling as Mira turned to him. In a sh, she closed the distance. Her sharp fingers plunged deep into his throat. The boy gurgled, his mouth opening as if to scream or beg, but no sound escaped. Blood gushed from the wound in his neck. Mira withdrew her hand, and his body stiffened before crumpling lifelessly to the floor. The room was now a graveyard, drenched in blood, with Mira standing alone amidst the carnage. The room fell intoplete silence, leaving only the bunny girl standing in its center, her breathing in short, ragged gasps. Her once snow-white hair, as beautiful as freshly fallen snow, was now stained crimson with blood¡ªher clothes, her face, everything marked by the carnage. As stood before her, his gaze heavy as he watched her. Mira''s eyes had returned to their normal color, yet she stood motionless, her chest rising and falling rapidly as she struggled to catch her breath. For a moment, she didn''t move, just stood there in the stillness. Slowly, the girl turned to look around at the gruesome scene surrounding her. Her expression was t¡ªneither shock nor panic crossed her face. Even though she had returned to her normal state, there was no indication of remorse or fear in her gaze. Does that mean she was conscious of what she did? As wondered, his thoughts churning. Did she unleash her fury deliberately while in that form? Is that why she''s been hiding her awakened status? Mira began to move again, her steps slow as she approached her parents'' lifeless bodies lying on the blood-soaked floor. She sank to the ground beside them, dropping into a seated W-position with her legs folded under her. She remained utterly still, silent, staring at their faces. Then, slowly, tears began to stream down her cheeks, but there was no sobbing. No cries or wails of grief¡ªjust silent, unending tears sliding down her bloodied face. As sat down beside her, his gaze softening as he silently kept herpany in this devastating moment. What will happen to her after this? he wondered. Surely, there would be consequences. The boy Mira had killed must have been someone important¡ªa child of influence in the city. It was evident from the number of bodyguards he had at his disposal and the audacity tomand others to take lives without fear of repercussions. As sighed deeply. She''s already lost everything¡­ and now this? But before his thoughts could spiral further, his attention snapped to Mira as a strange energy began to radiate from her body. A glowing magic circle formed beneath her. Wait¡­ is this it?@@novelbin@@ Is this the moment she''s chosen to be a Lord? The magic circle red brighter, its light enveloping Mira entirely. In an instant, the glowing runes consumed her, and she vanished from the room. Before As could react, the magic dragged him along with it, pulling him into its swirling vortex. As found himself in an entirely different ce. Oh¡­ what is this? Wait¡ª He turned in every direction, taking in his surroundings. Mira was there, still dressed in the same bloodied clothes, standing a short distance away. But this was unmistakably a floating ind. However, it wasn''t just any ind. Lush green grass spread across the ground, vibrant trees grew tall and healthy, and colorful flowers dotted thendscape. As turned again, marveling at the sheer vastness of the ce. The ind stretched far beyond what he expected, its edges obscured by dense forests. Even hills and gentle slopes added to the idyllic terrain. How the hell...? How is this possible? Why is her starter ind so massive? And not just massive¡ªthis fertile, this flourishing? "Woah¡­" What? As turned at the sudden sound and froze when he saw Mira standing there. But this wasn''t the solemn, blood-stained Mira from moments ago. No, this was the Mira he knew¡ªthe Mira with the bright, familiar expression he had grown ustomed to. "Beautiful¡­" she murmured, her voice filled with wonder as she ran forward, her movements light and yful. Mira crouched near a patch of flowers, gently brushing her bloodied fingers over the delicate petals. "These flowers are so beautiful¡­" Then, with a giggle, she added, "I can grow so many carrots here. I''ll turn this whole ind into a carrot paradise! Xi xi xi!" The cheerful girl began darting around, exploring the ind. She grabbed a bucket and started watering the nts. Stopping asionally, she leaned in to sniff the vibrant blooms, herughter echoing through the air. At that moment, As''s vision went dark, signaling the end of his journey into Mira''s past memories. When he opened his eyes again, he found himself lying on his bed, now wide awake. He nced toward the window and noticed the soft glow of morning light streaming in. Was I really asleep all night? As sat up slowly, his head still spinning from everything he had witnessed. Delving into Mira''s past had been an emotional weight he wasn''t prepared for¡ªit had left him feeling utterly drained and unsettled. If her tale hadn''t ended with her bing a Lord, I don''t think I could have rested without knowing what happened next. He sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. That girl¡­ It was almost impossible to reconcile the Mira he knew¡ªcheerful, innocent, and full of energy¡ªwith the girl from that harrowing past. Behind her bright smile and yful demeanor, she carried scars that ran far deeper than he''d ever imagined. Shaking off the heaviness in his chest, As stood up, walked to the door, and opened it. As he stepped out of his room, he was greeted by a familiar figure. There she stood¡ªa girl with snow-white hair and a pair of rabbit ears perched atop her head. "My Lord, good morning! I''ve already picked the freshest carrots for you this morning," Mira said cheerfully, holding up a small basket filled with vibrant carrots. For a moment, As simply stood there, staring at her, his chest tightening with emotion. Then, without a word, he stepped forward and wrapped her in a firm embrace. This was the hug he had yearned to give the young Mira from her memories¡ªa gesture he could only offer now to the Mira standing before him in the present. "My Lord?" Mira murmured softly. As clenched his fists as he held her. He wasn''t sure if he was trying to calm himself or if he was trying to give strength to the girl in his arms. Either way, he knew one thing with certainty: this girl had survived a hellish and tragic past. She had endured, and now she stood here before him. "Are you happy on this ind?" "Yes, My Lord¡­" Mira replied softly. [Mira Springfoot has been upgraded¡­] [Her talents have been merged¡­] [She has unlocked a new talent¡­] [Congrattions on upgrading your subordinate¡­] [You have received 320 Arcane Shards.] "From now on, nt as many carrots as you want," he whispered softly. Chapter 83 - The Path to Level 50 [Serathra has dered a retreat with 23% damage taken.] As was about to swing his spear toward the neck of his opponent when, suddenly, his weapon stopped mid-motion. The challenger had chosen to surrender. [You have earned 15 rank points.] [You are entitled to im 37% of the opponent''s resources.] [Congrattions on your victory!] [You have unlocked ess to issue a direct challenge to your opponent using your Attack Token. They will be unable to escape or decline.]@@novelbin@@ Cheers erupted from his troops as the battlefield shifted. One by one, the enemy forces were enveloped in glowing light, their forms vanishing from the area. As exhaled slowly, spinning his spear in a fluid motion before storing it back into his inventory. Turning to nce over his shoulder, he saw the victorious expressions on the faces of hisrades. In the distance, the enemy''s ind began to retreat. At the edge of the opposing tform, Serathra stood, her bloodied figure visible even from afar. Her left arm hung limp, drenched in crimson, and her once confident stance was now marked by exhaustion. "I''lle back stronger!" she called out. "Thanks for the battle." With those words, the woman stepped back, disappearing as the ind itself began to drift away. Their opponent this time was particrly challenging, wielding the Corruption Element and applying its effects to her entire troop. This made the battlefield dangerous and unpredictable. Fortunately for As, his side had no shortage of fighters with Dark Element affinities. In fact, the number of Dark Element users under hismand was unusually high for what was considered a Special Element. [You have obtained 200 Units of Wood.] [...] [You have obtained 12 Prisoners.] [You have obtained 223 Gold Coins.] [You have received 490 Arcane Shards.] [You received 19,568 Exp] [You have level up] [Level 47] [Exp: 2,990/179,665] As and the others retreated back to their ind from the warzone, bringing with them the spoils of victory¡ªincluding 12 prisoners of war as a reward for their sessful defense. He immediately checked on his troops, ensuring everyone''s condition after the intense battle. The Corruption element wielded by their opponents had made healing magic less effective, prolonging recovery efforts, but thankfully, no lives were lost. Among the 12 prisoners, only three werebatants who met As''s standards. Additionally, there were three workers, of which he chose two to bring into his workforce. The remaining prisoners were sent down to the Lower Lands, as they didn''t fit his needs. This marked yet another victory, their sixth consecutive win¡ªincluding the two battles against Soren. It was an incredible achievement. Even so, As knew the importance of maintaining their momentum. With their current position as Rank-1 Seeker Division 3, every victory brought them closer to advancement. If they could continue this streak into the next season, promotion to Rank-2 was well within reach. As held a discussion with Edrik and his elite subordinates for a strategic review. As usual, Edrik took the lead, guiding the conversation. Kurogasa, reserved, only spoke when directly addressed, but his carefully chosen words always carried significant weight. Karian, on the other hand, was repeatedly told to stay quiet by Edrik, as his suggestions were always overly brutal and almost immediately dismissed. Milo, shuffled his deck of cards relentlessly, especially whenever someone nced in his direction. Morganna lounged in the farthest corner, legs crossed, offering nomentary. Meanwhile, Lyrassa listened intently, but she, too, opted to stay silent throughout the discussion. Mira? She was much better off staying outside. Her overwhelming charm had an uncanny ability to derail serious discussions, and no one wanted to risk losing focus during such an important meeting. And Baldric? He was outside, thoroughly enjoying himself at a celebration with the troops. Despite their exhaustion, they couldn''t resist his energy and booming voice as they reveled in their victory. With approximately two months left in the current season, they still had one Attack Token remaining to challenge another Lord. However, Edrik raised some important considerations. "If we want to maximize the rewards from this token, we need to pick an opponent who might respond to our attack with their own counterattack," Edrik exined. "That would result in an all-out confrontation." He paused for a moment to ensure his point was clear before continuing. "The first question is: how do we identify an opponent likely to respond with an all-out confrontation?" Edrik leaned back slightly. "We can use the next few weeks for scouting. By observing the progress of battles on nearby inds and tracking their current status, we can narrow down our targets." He nced around the room. "It''s critical we also ensure that we''re fully prepared for victory in such a confrontation. Winning an all-out battle will not only grant us the maximum possible upgrades but also help us establish a stronger foundation heading into the next season." The group nodded, considering Edrik''s wellid-out strategy. Next topic, everyone eventually agreed with As''s decision to prioritize reaching level 50 during the remaining two months of the season. He knew it would take relentless effort, but the benefits would be worth the grind. At the same time, he still had tomit to the rigorous training sessions that Kurogasa had prepared for him. Bncing the two goals¡ªleveling up and sharpening hisbat skills¡ªwould push him to his limits. It was now a matter of seeing which woulde first: his long-awaited level 50, the next battle, or the possibility of having to forgo their remaining Attack Token due tock of preparation. There was no time for rest. The very next day, those who had recovered from the recent battle jumped straight back into training without hesitation. As, having gained numerous upgrades since hisst session¡ªincluding after forming his bond with Lyrassa¡ªwas back to grueling exercises. This time, he faced a familiar challenge: training while wearing armor specifically designed topletely dull his senses. However, a newyer of difficulty had been introduced. He was handed a specialized spear crafted by Baldric. Unlike his usual weapon, the Fang of Infernos, this spear weighed an astonishing 100 kilograms (approximately 220 pounds)¡ªten times heavier than his regr spear. As had to run while performing a sequence of spear techniques. He spun the massive spear with precision, thrust it forward with controlled force, swept it in wide arcs, and followed up with overhead strikes that demanded both power and bnce. As steadied himself, focusing as elemental particles began to gather around him. Unlike before, when they floated aimlessly, the particles were now visibly drawn toward him, wrapping around his body and the spear in his hands. He spun the spear with precision, grounding himself in preparation. After leveling up in thest battle, his stats had improved slightly, and he could feel the difference in his strength and control. With confidence, As began running through the course. He recalled theyout of the track in detail, using that knowledge to navigate efficiently. The elemental particles surrounding him seemed to enhance his movements, and his steps were steady and assured. Having spent weeks training without the use of his senses, he had grown adept at maintaining his bnce. Even the heavy armor and spear no longer felt as overwhelming. Lava stream ahead¡ªjump! Heunched himself into the air, spinning the spear mid-flight. As he descended, he executed an overhead strike into the ground. The impact unleashed an explosivebination of fire and earth, sending a fiery shockwave rippling outward. The sheer force of the strike captured the attention of nearby troops, their morale was visibly lifted by his performance. The training continued for another week. Now, the second advanced session was set to begin. As stood in a barren field surrounded by cracks ofva. Low hills enclosed the area, creating a natural arena for the challenge ahead. This time, the task was far more daunting. He would face waves of monsters attacking from multiple directions. With the same condition, all of his senses, sight, hearing, smell, and touch werepletely shut off. While his previous training involved detecting and interacting with elemental particles from inanimate objects, this time he would have to track andbat living, moving enemies. The monsters were already on their way. He could tell by the erratic behavior of the elemental particles in the area, swirling and shifting wildly in certain directions. But identifying the monsters'' exact locations¡ªor their numbers¡ªproved much harder than he had anticipated. The chaotic movement of the particles made it difficult to pinpoint each target. As tightened his grip on his spear, taking a steadying breath. His first move would be to parry¡ªtesting the iing attacks to gauge the strength, speed, and number of his opponents. His body tensed, ready for the first strike, as he waited for the chaos to collide with him. Chapter 86 - Elemental Spear Mastery As had won! "Ha... ha ha ha!" Laughter bubbled up from deep within him. He pulled off his helmet, letting the cool air hit his sweat-drenched face. Before himy the massive body of the Orc, its enormous form riddled with cracks that glowed faintly with fire. The stone club it had wielded shimmered with the same fiery aura. A notification shed in his vision:@@novelbin@@ [You have killed Elite Moltencrusher Lv. 53] [You obtained Emberguard Band] [...] [You received 26,445 Exp] [Exp: 180,231/217,396] [Level: 49] [You have sessfullypleted the challenge. You have earned your rewards.] [Common - Piercing Thrust leveled up to 8] [Common - Sweeping Strike leveled up to 6] [Common - Defensive Stance leveled up to 9] [Common - Ground m leveled up to 6] [Common - Power Strike leveled up to 10] [Elite - Flurry of Spears leveled up to 3] [Epic - Inferno Fortitude (Passive) leveled up to 2] As began reviewing the notifications that appeared in his vision one by one. The battle had earned him several skill level-ups, each one a major boost to his abilities. But what caught his attention the most was a special item he had received: the Emberguard Band. It was a bracelet, heavy and etched with glowing runes. He slipped it onto his left wrist, feeling the heat pulse faintly against his skin. Before continuing, he checked the item''s detailed effects: [Emberguard Band] [A heavy, rune-inscribed bracelet that radiates heat, reinforcing the wearer''s durability.] [Molten Endurance: Reduces stamina consumption by 15% when under attack.] [zing Resilience: Grants a 20% resistance to fire-based attacks and reduces damage from burning effects.] [Lava Shield Pulse: Releases a small AoE pulse of fire every 10 seconds when surrounded by three or more enemies, dealing minor fire damage and pushing attackers back slightly.] "Wow," As muttered, admiring the bracelet. Thebination of stamina conservation, fire resistance, and area-of-effect damage made it an incredible asset. As also unlocked several new talents and skills. [You have sessfully evolved Perfect Rhythm (A) into a New Talent: Elemental Spear Mastery (S)] [Elemental Spear Mastery (S)] [The spear bes a conduit for elemental power, amplifying the user''sbat prowess and instincts. Every strike, motion, and defense flows seamlessly with the surrounding elemental forces, creating an unstoppable rhythm in battle.] Another Rank-S talent! He couldn''t help but smile, satisfied with the extraordinary talent he had just unlocked. While it was still centered around his spear, he didn''t mind. If he ever wanted to learn other weapon types in the future, he could still train this talent and potentially evolve it into something more versatile. Over the past few weeks, his spear had been his lifeline. From endurance runs to practicing attack patterns, and even in real battles against monsters, the spear had been an extension of himself. Bybining all of that with his elemental power, it was no surprise that this talent had finally taken form. [You have unlock new skill Epic-grade Resonant Spear Field (Passive Skill) [The spear creates a resonant energy field duringbat, amplifying elemental effects and providing subtle enhancements to the user.] [Increases elemental damage by 15% for spear attacks.] [Allies within a 10-meter radius gain a +5% evasion and defense boost while the spear field is active.] [The field adapts to the active element:] [Fire: Boosts allied attack speed by 10%.] [Water: Gradually restores stamina.] [Air: Increases allied movement speed.] [Earth: Reduces iing damage by 10%.] He even unlocked a new skill. And, this one turned out to be a passive skill! The beauty of passive skills was their sheer efficiency. They consumed no mana and less staminapared to active skills and didn''t require deliberate activation¡ªthey triggered automatically, adapting to the user''s situation. What made this particr skill even more incredible was that it didn''t just affect him; it also extended its benefits to any allies nearby. As couldn''t help but notice how much his bond with Morganna and Lyrassa had influenced the kinds of skills and talents he''d been unlockingtely. [You have unlocked a new skill. Epic-grade Elemental Spear Resonance (Passive Skill)] [Synchronizes the user''s elemental mastery with the spear, creating a deep bond that empowers both weapon and wielder.] [The spear passively radiates an aura of elemental energy, enhancing elemental crit damage by 15%.] [Sessful dodges, and parries release a minor elemental pulse, damaging and staggering enemies within 5 meters.] [While holding the spear, stamina regeneration increases by 10%.] Another incredible skill! And once again, it was a passive skill! This was an upgrade to several abilities he had gained,bined into something extraordinary. This passive skill significantly increased his damage output potential while also providing a massive boost to his stamina regeneration. It was clear that the stamina-focused training As had dedicated himself to was paying off in a big way. The relentless runs, the grueling drills, and the continuous sparring had not only improved his endurance but also directly influenced the type of skills he was unlocking. [you have unlocked a new skill. Epic-grade Crystalline Spear Flow (Passive Skill)] [Enhances the spear with water and ice elements, focusing on precision and control.] [Spear strikes slow enemies by 10%, stacking up to 30%.] [Sessful hits create a small shield of ice around the user, absorbing 5% of iing damage for 5 seconds.] [The shield regenerates after 10 seconds of inactivity.] And yet another Epic-grade skill! This time, the skill was infused with water and ice elements. It seemed this development was a direct result of As frequently using water-based abilities during his training. Over time, his water skills had naturally advanced, branching into the Ice Element. Water had always been his basicmon element, with the highest affinity. Because of this, unlocking this skill felt like a natural evolution, one that came with the most potential for growth. As scanned through the notifications onest time, ensuring he hadn''t missed anything. After taking a moment topose himself, As decided to review his overall status. He knew for certain that his total stat points had increased drastically. Chapter 90 - Lightning Breaker Awakens "Getting two basic elements in one weapon is already rare enough, let alone three. Hah!" Baldric said with a grin, watching as As prepared to apply the Lightning Infusion Crystal to the Legendary-grade spear. "This is going to be something extraordinary!" he added with a heartyugh. "Hahaha!" Edrik chimed in next. "I''d like to add my perspective here," he said, drawing As''s attention. "Lightning," Edrik began, "is an element born from thebination of Fire and Air. It''s not exactly an easy mix to work with for most people." He paused for a moment before continuing. "Now imagine this¡ªWater, Fire, and Air all fused into a single weapon. If the user doesn''t have an affinity for all three elements, the potential of the weapon would be difficult to fully utilize." As nodded. He had initially worried that adding too many elements might reduce the weapon''s overall effectiveness. "With your situation," Edrik exined, "since Water is your highest elemental affinity, it will influence and enhance both Fire and Air over time. Think of it as a synergy that boosts their growth alongside your progress. And because the spear will be your main weapon, all three elements will naturally integrate into yourbat style. As Fire and Air affinities increase, your Lightning elemental damage will also receive a proportional boost." As''s lips curled into a small smile as he nodded again. "Sounds interesting." Edrik added with a knowing grin, "By doing this, you''ll also essentially lock the weapon''s full potential to yourself, As. I mean, no one else will be able to wield it as effectively as you can." As wasted no time and applied the infusion crystal. [Applying the Lightning Infusion Crystal to the Legendary-grade Wavebreaker Spear...] The crystal vibrated intensely, releasing surges of electric energy that coursed through his hand and arm. It was as if the spear''s water energy reached out, absorbing the crystal into itself. Lightning crackled and spread across the spear, intertwining with its essence. Momentster, As could feel both lightning and water merging seamlessly within him, resonating with the Oceanic Blessing passive skill embedded in the spear. [Infusion sessful! The Wavebreaker Spear will now channel lightning when attacking, adding Lightning damage to all skills used.] A satisfied smile spread across As''s face as he admired the transformation. "As you continue to wield this spear, there''s a good chance its skills will evolve further, As," Edrik said. As felt a surge of motivation as he admired his newly upgraded spear. It was absolutely incredible. He spun the spear in his hands, watching as trails of water and crackling lightning danced in its wake. The sight was mesmerizing, and he couldn''t help but wonder how the skills would look when cast. Gripping the spear firmly, he decided to test its abilities. But just as he began to channel energy, a sharp pang shot through his chest. His hand instinctively went to his heart.@@novelbin@@ Kurogasa stepped forward with measured concern. "My Lord, your mana efficiency is still far from optimal. For now, I would suggest limiting your use of each skill to just once within a short period." As nodded. He realized he still had much to work on, not just in wielding the spear but also in refining other aspects of his abilities. This experience reinforced the importance of careful nning for stat point allocation in the future. "Should we move on to mana training soon, Kurogasa?" he asked after a moment. Kurogasa shook his head gently. "My Lord, while training your mana would certainly improve your ability to use skills more effectively, it''s not the most efficient focus right now. At this stage, it would be better to concentrate on building your physical strength, enhancing your elemental efficiency, and perfecting your spear techniques. These areas will deliver greater benefits, especially as you near the milestone of obtaining your advanced ss." As nodded again, digesting the advice. He tested the spear with a series of strikes¡ªthrusts, sweeps, and ms against the ground. He could feel its impressive flexibility and the sheer power it unleashed with every movement. He nced back at the group of three. "So, should I rush for level 50?" They fell silent for a moment before Edrik was the first to speak. "I''d say¡­ no." "Why?" As asked with a questioning look. "I only need a few monster hunts to reach level 50." Kurogasa stepped in with a reply. "My Lord, I believe we need to adjust our initial n. Now that you possess a spirit beast egg, it changes things." As raised an eyebrow. "Does this affect my ss advancement too?" "Yes," Kurogasa confirmed with a nod. "If you can form the contract with the spirit beast before reaching level 50, it will y a crucial role in determining your progression." "Interesting," As replied, intrigued. The group quickly agreed on the n for theing week leading up to the final battle. The target was clear: As would stick to the rigorous training program designed by Kurogasa. However, this time, he would avoid fighting monsters entirely to ensure he didn''t gain any additional experience points. The focus was on forming the contract with the spirit beast first before pushing forward to level 50. The n was set. The night of celebration hade to an end, and everyone returned to Gacha Haven to rest and recharge. With about two weeks left until the end of the current battle season, As nned to dedicate the first week to pushing his progress before shifting his focus entirely to preparing for the final battle. The next morning, the group resumed their training routines. The troops had made significant progress, with many reaching levels above 45. Their training had been carefully tailored to their roles: Tankers concentrated on building endurance and stamina, melee fighters honed theirbat techniques, long-range attackers worked on strategies and positioning in battle, while Mages focused on improving their magic efficiency. However, there was still a gap in the magic training. While Lyrassa was a magic user herself, she struggled to exin magical concepts in a way that others could easily grasp. As a result, Kurogasa took the lead in providing role-specific training to ensure everyone progressed effectively. As for As, his focus was entirely onbat training against Sentinel Training Mannequin. This advanced robot could adjust its weapon types and levels to match its opponent, providing a perfect challenge. As trained relentlessly, spending nearly the entire day battling the Mannequin. He used his Wavebreaker Spear in every session, aiming to boost his elemental affinity while sharpening his spear techniques. When break time or nightfall came, As shifted his attention to the mysterious egg in his possession. Sitting quietly, he channeled his mana into it, watching as faint light pulsed from within the egg, glowing softly and vibrating rhythmically, almost as if it were breathing in response. What could this egg be? And then¡­ on the seventh day, just as Lyrassa had predicted, something happened. That morning, as As woke up and nced toward the egg resting on the table, he noticed its light flickering faster than usual. The faint glow pulsed rhythmically, and the egg trembled asionally, as though something inside was trying to break free. As immediately jumped out of bed. He rushed to the door, flung it open, and called out to the others. "Lyrassa! Everyone! Come quick!" It was happening. The egg was about to hatch! Chapter 92 - Spiritforge Haven Zefyros, the Arclume Drakeling Spirit Beast seemed to thoroughly enjoy himself in the pond, sshing around while some of the troops bravely dipped their feet into the water, yfully sshing at the spirit beast. Zefyros responded in kind¡ªnot just with water, but with waves that surged yfully over them, drenching everyone in the process. As theughter grew, more troops joined in, turning the pond into a lively scene of fun with the newborn spirit beast. Despite his crackling electric charge, Zefyros seemed to have gained enough control to make it more tolerable for those around him. While the tingling shocks in the water were still noticeable, they were no longer enough to deter anyone from joining in. As, observing from the edge of the pond, decided to join the fun. He sat at the water''s edge, dipping his feet into the cool, electrified pool, and beckoned to Zefyros with a wave of his hand. The drakeling leapt onto As''sp, its wide, curious eyes locking onto him. With a steady breath, As nicked his fingertip with his thumbnail, allowing a single drop of blood to fall onto Zefyros''s head. As the bloodnded, a faint glow of elemental particles gathered, swirling and cascading over the drakeling before sinking into its form. [Establishing a contract with the Spirit Beast, Arclume Drakeling...] [Synchronizing both parties...] [Congrattions! The contract has been sessfully created. You have bonded the Arclume Drakeling as your spirit beast contractor.] As''s vision filled with system notifications: [Due to the contract, new skills have been unlocked as a result of synchronization.]@@novelbin@@ [You have unlocked a new skill: Spiritforge Haven] [The contracted beast can now merge with one chosen item to act as its vessel, creating a pocket dimension for regeneration and recovery while enhancing the item''s performance.] [Elementalpatibility will affect the final oue.] A vessel for Zefyros would not only allow the beast to recuperate but also amplify the power of a weapon or piece of equipment in ways he could only begin to imagine. As quickly decided on the best option for where to house Zefyros. He drew the Wavebreaker Spear, its surface already beginning to shimmer with water energy and crackling electricity. [Applying Spiritforge Haven to Legendary-grade Wavebreaker Spear] The spear''s appearance shifted, the lightning crackling more fiercely, and a powerful surge of water flowing along its length. "Now, Zefyros, retreat to your Haven." Creaakkk... The beast dissolved into pure energy and flowed into the spear. As stood still for a moment, spinning the spear experimentally in his hand. He immediately noticed how much lighter it felt, its movements imbued with a newfound push of vibrant energy. The enhancement from Zefyros'' essence wasn''t just cosmetic¡ªit significantly amplified the weapon''s potential. With this fusion, he could now channel the spear''s abilities alongside Zefyros'' own skills, creating a formidable synergy. What an upgrade! Curious to test the bnce, As summoned Zefyros again. This technique would make it far easier to carry the creature wherever he went, seamlessly blending strength and mobility. With the contracted beast fully settled, As and his elite subordinates turned their attention to reviewing their strategy for the uing week. The current season''s battles were nearing their end, and As still had one attack token left to use. Edrik had already identified a target for their challenge. For months, he had been monitoring the movements of various floating inds nearby. This vignce paid off, as the system periodically updated the status and development of these inds, offering valuable insights into potential opponents. The chosen target still had an avable challenge slot, which was surprising. Even other lords within the same division hadn''t dared to challenge this particr opponent. The hesitation likely stemmed from the sheer size of the target''s army¡ªnearly double the average force of lords at their rank. Moreover, the progress of this lord''s floating ind throughout the season was impressive. The consistent wins in battles and also potentially did an all-out confrontation once. With the target set, As wasted no time submitting the battle challenge. This final confrontation held the potential to be a season-defining event for their team. Now, all they could do was wait for the opposing lord to respond to the challenge. A defensive stance would work in their favor, but if the response came as an all-out confrontation, it would be an exhrating phase for Gacha Haven and its residents¡ªit would mark their very first full-scale war at this level. With only seven days left before the battle season concluded, As decided to postpone on leveling himself up to 50, and would do it after wrapping up hisst battle. This would allow him to fully concentrate on the task at hand without unnecessary distractions. In the meantime, the team adjusted their training schedule for theing days, reducing the intensity and duration of their sessions. This change was a strategic move to ensure everyone remained in peak condition should their challenge be epted. It also served to prevent the dulling of theirbat instincts, which could happen if they ceased training entirely. This bnced approach aimed to keep the team sharp and ready for the real battle while avoiding unnecessary fatigue. Every preparation was being fine-tuned to ensure they could perform at their best when the decisive moment arrived. Over the past two months of relentless training, nearly everybatant on the team had undergone remarkable upgrades. They unlocked new talents, gained new skills, and achieved significant level boosts. Their hunts at re Peak also proved fruitful, yielding valuable items like skill scrolls and materials that strengthened the entire team. These resources were instrumental in enhancing theirbat readiness. In terms of fortifications, As had established four me Beacons on each side of Gacha Haven, significantly bolstering its defenses. While these improvements wouldn''t y a role in the uing all-out confrontation¡ªsince the battle would take ce in a neutral Warzone¡ªthey underscored the team''s growing strength and preparedness. Finally, the fourth day arrived, and with it came the long-awaited decision from their opponent. [Ragnor of The Infernal Reach epts the challenge for the all-out confrontation.] Edrik''s prediction was spot on. Their carefully crafted strategy had worked. By keeping their troop count minimal but focusing on elite quality, they created the illusion of being a weaker force. This made their opponent underestimate them, believing that fewer numbers meant less of a threat. In war, troop count was the easiest metric to judge strength, and their opponent boasted nearly four times as many soldiers as As''s forces. The challenge ahead was immense. Each member of As''s team would need to take responsibility for defeating at least three enemies during the battle. This wasn''t just a test of strategy¡ªit was a trial of skill, resolve, and unity. Even so, one crucial factor couldn''t be ignored¡ªseveral elite subordinates in As''s arsenal were capable of handling multiple opponents at once during the battle. Additionally, even nonbat roles like the Resource Manager, cksmith, and even a Gardener were set to contribute meaningfully to the war effort. [The battle willmence in 13 hours.] [The countdown begins now.] Thirteen hours provided enough time to rest and finalize preparations. This was shaping up to be a monumental battle, and As could see the resolve and confidence in the eyes of his subordinates. Yet, those thirteen hours stretched endlessly. Some of them even thought it might have been better if the countdown were only thirteen minutes¡ªit would have spared them the weight of anticipation. Until¡­ It was time. Everyone readied themselves. The moment they had prepared for was finally here. *** (Author''s Note:) Did you know you can ess free advanced chapters on my p4tr30n[dot/gnteo It''spletely free to get started¡ªdon''t miss out on staying ahead in the story! Join fellow adventurers on Discord: /gnteodiscord Chapter 94 - Victory or Nothing As unleashed waves of water and a storm of liquid spears, smothering the searing magma across the battlefield. The molten flow lost its fiery edge, cooling visibly. Ragnor''s face twisted in surprise for a moment, and his soldiers mirrored his reaction, though their determination remained firm. The battle was on, and they pushed forward, relying on their greater numbers. As shot ahead, his body crackling with water and lightning energy that boosted his every move. The Mountain Leaper Bands on his wrist powered him forward in explosive bursts. Beside him, Morganna ran with her scythe ready. She cast a fleeting nce his way, her usual faint smile shing¡ªcool and confident, with a hint of the bloodlust that gleamed in her eyes. The Vampire Queen surged ahead, ignoring the enemy''smander entirely as she hunted for her targets. But before she could strike, something zipped past her and smashed into an enemy soldier''s chest with brutal force. It was Mira. The rabbit-eared gardener darted into the chaos, her crimson eyes burning with intensity. Wielding her hoe like a weapon of precision, she moved with uncanny speed, slipping through attacks as if untouchable. Each swing of her de-like tool ended another life, leaving a growing trail of bodies in her wake. Farther off, another figure hurled into the air with an unhinged scream. Mid-flight, his body warped grotesquely, morphing into a massive form cloaked in writhing shadows. Raze had joined the fray. He mmed into the enemy ranks like a wrecking ball, scattering soldiers on impact. His roar thundered across the battlefield, veins bulging as shadowy tendrilsshed out. The ground quaked beneath him, and the sheer force of his presence sent waves of fear rippling through the opposing troops. Several faltered, their resolve wavering under his ferocious disy. Raze didn''t hesitate, unleashing a torrent of devastating punches in every direction. He seized one unlucky soldier, lifting them effortlessly before mming them into the ground with bone-crushing force. The earth trembled under the impact, and Raze''s fists kept pounding relentlessly until the soldier''s body was driven deep into the dirt. Enemy troops swarmed him, attacking from all sides in a frantic bid to take him down. But Raze seemed impervious to their strikes, shrugging off the blows without flinching. Each attack he absorbed only fueled his fury. He retaliated with raw, unrestrained power, his fists smashing through the chaos like wrecking hammers. Every swing shattered bones and courage alike, leaving anyone who dared approach him crushed in body and spirit. As surged forward, closing the distance between himself and Ragnor, the opposing Lord. The decision of his elite subordinates to hold back, leaving him to face Ragnor alone, was a testament to the gravity of the challenge before them. This battle was anything but simple¡ªit demanded everything As had and more. With his spear in hand, As moved at an incredible speed, the water and lightning elements swirling around him like an untamed storm. He could feel the abundant elemental particles saturating the battlefield, but as he moved closer to Ragnor, it was as though they were momentarily disrupted, their flow distorted. As closed his eyes, centering himself. This wasn''t new to him¡ªhe had fought many battles blind before. With his upgraded abilities sharpening his senses, he felt ready for whatever Ragnor would unleash. The sh ahead would define the course of the battle. Ragnor greeted As with a fierce grin, charging forward with startling speed. Despite the massive size of his greathammer, his swings were quick and punishing, each one sending tremors through the ground. As dodged nimbly, leaping back and weaving under the crushing blows with fluid precision. Spotting an opening, he spun his spear and shed at Ragnor''s side, aiming to exploit a gap in his defense.@@novelbin@@ Ragnor reacted immediately, dropping his arm to block the strike with the t edge of his greathammer. The sh of metal rang out, but As didn''t pause. He pressed forward,unching a rapid series of strikes. Each thrust, swing, and sh was met with skillful deflections, Ragnor using different parts of his colossal weapon to parry the relentless assault. Their battle was a breathtaking disy of power and precision, every exchange lighting the battlefield with sparks. The intensity mounted until Ragnor unleashed a heavy counter strike. As sprang backward just in time, avoiding the devastating blow. Without hesitation, he called forth his spirit beast, summoning it into the fray in a brilliant sh. "Zefyros!" The water beast materialized. CREAAKKKK! A massive surge of water, crackling with electricity, erupted toward Ragnor. The attack struck with overwhelming force, thebined elements mming into the enemy Lord. He roared in pain, his massive frame staggering under the assault. But Ragnor was far from defeated. With a furious yell, he spun his greathammer in a wide arc. The sheer force of the swing broke through the torrent. Taking advantage of the disruption, he dashed clear of the attack zone, narrowly escaping Zefyros''s wrath. As Ragnor repositioned, Zefyros dissolved back into the Wavebreaker Spear, its energy flowing into the weapon and supercharging it once more. As gripped the spear tightly, ready to strike again. Ragnor''s face was no longer asposed as before. His expression twisted into a snarl as he let out a deafening roar, his body enveloped in a zing red aura that made his skin appear even more fiery and intense. Suddenly, he moved with blistering speed, swinging his massive greathammer toward As in a series of brutal, rapid strikes. As, however, responded with a faint smile. With practiced grace, he shifted his spear behind him, leaped into the air, ducked low, and somersaulted, effortlessly dodging each of Ragnor''s frenzied attacks. Seizing the moment, As spun to Ragnor''s side and delivered a precise overhead strike with his spear. The attacknded cleanly, carving a deep gash into Ragnor''s left arm. "I''ll kill you, you bastard!" Ragnor roared, his movements bing even more savage and erratic. His speed increased, his strikes growing fiercer with each swing. Is he a berserker? Unfazed, As kept moving, circling around him, asionally summoning Zefyros to unleash powerful attacks. Yet this time, Ragnor braced himself, gritting his teeth and managing to endure the spirit beast''s strikes as he continued his relentless assault on As. "How are you able to fight in this volcanic terrain?" Ragnor bellowed. "This kind of environment," As replied, parrying an iing blow before being forced to flip backward from the sheer force, "is a yground for use." "Are you the ones who train at re Peak?" "We didn''t know we were so famous." Gradually, Ragnor''s movements began to slow. The injuries he had sustained were taking their toll, and his once-blistering speed waned. As noticed an opening on Ragnor''s left side¡ªa critical vulnerability. He dashed forward, aiming a sweeping sh from the left, his spear angling directly toward Ragnor''s neck. "Anyst words?!" But just as his strike was about to connect, Ragnor suddenly dropped his weapon and raised both hands into the air. "I surrender!" Ragnor shouted, his voice booming across the battlefield, drawing everyone''s attention. As''s eyes darted to the timer on his HUD¡ªit had just reached 2 minutes exactly. Warning! A notification shed in his mind. His eyes narrowed as Ragnor''s lips curled into a sinister grin. In Ragnor''s outstretched hand, a massive fireball ignited, growing rapidly in size and intensity. Before As could react, Ragnor lunged forward, hurling the fiery sphere straight at him. "You''re dead now, As!" But As moved with blinding speed, stepping back just enough to evade the zing attack. As the fireball flew past him, he redirected his spear in a swift, lethal arc. The de struck true, severing Ragnor''s hand cleanly at the wrist. Ragnor froze, his eyes wide with shock and terror as he staggered back. But As didn''t give him time to recover. In a single fluid motion, As swung his spear again, aiming for Ragnor''s neck. The de struck with precision, slicing through the outeryers of flesh and leaving a deep, gaping wound. "ARGHHH!" Ragnor''s scream ripped through the air as blood gushed from his neck. He copsed to the ground, writhing and clutching desperately at the wound. Seeing their Lord brought to his knees, Ragnor''s troops were consumed by fear. Without leadership or direction, they became easy targets for As''s forces. One by one, soldiers were struck down as they tried to flee, many falling to swift attacks from behind. des found their marks, and the battlefield was soon littered with the remnants of a shattered army. As didn''t spare Ragnor another nce. He turned his back on the fallen Lord, walking away slowly as the defeated warrior bled out on the scorched ground. Behind him, his troops moved with cold precision, dismantling what remained of the enemy force. Stopping for a moment, As closed his eyes and drew a deep breath, steadying himself. His fists tightened as he let the weight of the moment settle. In the Lord''s Battle World, only onew mattered: kill or be killed. Victory or Nothing! Chapter 95 - Names Written in Stone This marked the final battle of the season, and As had swept through every encounter with unbroken victories. Even now, he secured yet another decisive win. [Arcane Shards: 5,025] [Gold: 5,458] [Rank Points: 140 (Rank-1 Seeker, Division 3)] [Combatants: 65] [Workers: 16] With the battle concluded, all troops retreated back to Gacha Haven, their home ind. Behind them, the warzone began to dissolve, the floating earth crumbling and falling away, once again separating the two floating inds. But this time, As had won an All-Out Confrontation, granting him full im over the enemy''s floating ind and everything on it. Slowly, the defeated ind began to drift toward Gacha Haven, preparing to merge with its new master''s territory. As received a UI prompt, allowing him to choose where to attach the new ind. He carefully selected a position that would maximize both utility and defense before finalizing the process. The conquered ind shifted and aligned, seamlessly joining with Gacha Haven. The acquired territory already had several structures that could be put to use, though some would need to be relocated for strategic purposes. As also noted that he would need to construct additional defensive points around the expanded perimeter of his nowrger domain. The new ind itself bore the scars of its previous owner''s control over terrain. While there were patches of grass and clusters of trees, much of its surface was scorched, dry, and rugged¡ªa stark contrast to the well-tended beauty of Gacha Haven, which Mira and her team had maintained with meticulous care. Despite its current state, As knew it was only a matter of time before the newnd would be transformed. Under Mira''s capable hand, the barrenndscape would soon flourish and blend seamlessly with the rest of Gacha Haven. As reviewed the results of the war onest time, taking stock of his gains. His experience points had climbed significantly: [Exp: 212,231/217,396] He needed only about 5,000 more experience points to reach Level 50, a milestone he intended to achieve as soon as he finished dealing with the aftermath of the battle. His system reflected an additional 20batants and 5 workers, all ounted for in the updated tally. However, as he observed the numbers more closely, he realized something unsettling¡ªthe total count of his troops was still lower than it should have been, even after factoring in the new recruits from his victory. Frowning, As approached Edrik, who was debriefing the team leaders following the battle. Noticing his Lord''s approach, Edrik turned to face him. "We lost fivebatants," Edrik reported. As''s hands trembled momentarily as the weight of the statement hit him. His jaw tightened, and he clenched his fists, forcing himself to remain steady. He had always known this reality couldn''t be avoided¡ªanyone who joined this game did so with the full understanding of the risks. It was a world of absolutes: kill or be killed. Drawing a deep breath, As stepped forward toward the four team leaders who stood in a line. His gaze swept over each of them, taking in their faces: Zara, leader of Team Aether; Kaida, leader of Team ze; Garen, leader of Team Cinder; and Ronan, leader of Team Dusk. His gaze moved across their faces. The expressions were heavier than usual, with a gravity that even silence couldn''t conceal. Only Ronan, whose t demeanor mirrored Edrik''s, remained unreadable, as if untouched by the weight of the moment. "We will create a monument," As finally said. "It will bear the names of those who fell today, as a symbol of honor and remembrance." He paused, letting the words settle before continuing. "We will also provide financial support to the families they''ve left behind." He scanned their faces. "Is there anything you''d like to say?" For a moment, no one spoke. Then Kaida, the fiery and outspoken leader of Team ze, stepped forward. "My Lord¡­" she began, her voice unusually subdued. As turned to her, noticing the way she bit her lip, as if holding back something deeply personal. "Kaida?" Kaida, who was normally the loudest, most spirited among them, seemed like a shadow of herself. Her head dipped slightly, her usualposure visibly fraying. "I¡­ failed my two members," Kaida said, her voice trembling as it trailed into silence.@@novelbin@@ As understood then¡ªbeneath the cheerfulness and boldness she always exuded, Kaida carried a deep sense of responsibility. When tragedy struck, the weight of her guilt was nearly unbearable. As stepped closer and gently pulled her into aforting embrace. Kaida leaned against him, resting her forehead on his shoulder as the walls of her quiet resolve crumbled. "You carry this guilt because you care deeply for your people, Kaida. That makes you a great leader. But you don''t have to carry it alone¡ªwe''re here with you." For a moment, they remained like that, enveloped in a shared stillness. When As finally stepped back, he saw the strain in her red, glistening eyes. Despite the tears, Kaida managed to pull herself together. "My Lord," Garen said next as he stepped forward. Thergest of the team leaders, he stood with a quiet strength, though his expression betrayed the pain he carried. "I lost one of my team members too." As gave him a solemn nod. "I know how much your team means to you, Garen. Losing someone you fought beside is a heavy burden. If there''s anything your team or their family needs, let me know, and I''ll make it happen." That ounted for three of the five fallen. He turned to Ronan expecting him to speak. But Ronan said nothing. He stood still, his usually meticulous and calcted demeanor oddly out of ce in the current context. Ronan wasn''t the type to withhold information or avoid responsibility¡ªhis precision was one of his defining traits. As''s brow furrowed slightly. If Ronan wasn''t speaking, something felt¡­ off. "Ronan?" Ronan lifted his head and bowed slightly. "My Lord, six of my team members suffered severe injuries, but all of them survived." As nodded slowly. That ounted for Ronan''s team. Now, only one team leader remained silent. As turned his attention to Zara, who stood with her head lowered. Taking a step toward her, As called softly, "Zara?" She raised her head, meeting his gaze. But what As saw was strikingly different from the emotional reactions of Kaida or Garen. Zara''s face was as expressionless as ever¡ªnot devoid of emotion, but unnervingly calm, as though death had be a familiarpanion for her. "I lost two of my team members," she said inly. There was no trembling, no anger, no visible grief. It was as if Zara had long since made peace with the brutality of loss. "You''ve found a way to stay steady, Zara, even in the face of loss." As couldn''t help but wonder, What has she been through to view death this way? "My Lord¡­" Zara continued, breaking his thoughts. "Yes?" "If you permit it, I would like to go to the lowernds and meet the families of my fallen teammates." As nodded. "I''ll apany you, Kaida, and Garen to meet them. It''s the least we can do." Edrik approached from behind, his tone measured as he spoke, "As¡­" As raised his right hand to stop him, signaling that he didn''t need to say more. "They chose to dedicate their lives to Gacha Haven," As said firmly. "This is the least I can do to honor their sacrifice." Zara gave a small nod. "Thank you, My Lord," she said simply. The following day, As descended to the Lower Lands apanied by a small group, including Zara. Their destination was a quaint town near the coast, where small settlements were surrounded by modest city walls¡ªnothing as grand as those of therger cities. They stopped in front of a small house nestled amidst trees and a flourishing garden. It was evident that the upants were gardeners, tending to their livelihood with care. The door creaked open, revealing a woman in her fifties. Her expression shifted from surprise to shock upon seeing As and Zara standing there. But then, as if something clicked in her mind, she rushed forward and gripped Zara''s shoulders tightly. "Young Lady Zara¡­" she said, her voice trembling. Tears streamed down her face as she choked back a sob. "Young Lady¡­" she repeated, her words breaking into a wail as she pulled Zara into a tight embrace. As watched the scene, his brow furrowing slightly. Young Lady? The title seemed out of ce for Zara, who rarely disyed any sign of nobility or privilege. Yet the way the woman spoke to her¡ªwith a mix of familiarity, respect, and grief¡ªsuggested a history As hadn''t yet uncovered. Zara, for her part, stood still, allowing the woman to cling to her. Her expression remained calm, though her eyes softened slightly. "Edward... failed..." Zara finally said. At her words, the woman''s sobs grew louder, her grief pouring out unrestrained. "Did Edward protect you... until the very end?" the woman asked through her tears. "Edward always protected me," Zara replied, her usualposure faltering as her voice cracked. She paused, her lips trembling before continuing, "Even in his final moments... he gave his life to save mine." This time, it was unmistakable¡ªtears streamed down Zara''s face. Her pain and gratitude intertwined in those tears, a silent tribute to the one who had sacrificed everything for her. Chapter 98 - Kill or Be Killed As sat quietly with Zara on a long bench overlooking a serene artificialke near the city''s central park. The sky dimmed as shades of orange and purple stretched across the horizon. Nearby, the rest of their team lingered around the parked caravans, giving the two of them space. For a while, neither of them said a word. Zara gazed nkly at the calm water. As mirrored her silence, his eyes fixed on the gentle ripples of theke. Until, it was As who finally broke the stillness. "What does it feel like¡­" he began, his voice low. "To take someone''s life?" Zara''s eyes widened at the unexpected question, and she turned to look at him. "My Lord¡­" she started, but her voice faltered. She sped her hands together nervously before finding her words. "At first¡­ it felt painful," she admitted. "But, over time, I began to understand¡­" She paused, her voice dropping as if weighed down by the truth she was about to share. "In this world, we can only survive by defending ourselves¡­ or by killing our enemies." As took a deep breath, nodding slowly at her words. "You didn''t say anything when I told the team we were heading to this city," he said after a moment. Zara remained silent, her gaze falling to the ground. "What do you feel?" Her shoulders tensed, and she lowered her head further. "Anger," she finally admitted, her voice trembling. As sighed deeply, standing and continuing to look out over theke. "I''m giving you the opportunity you need," he said. "Take it, or we''ll leave this city." The silence stretched between them once more. After a few moments, Zara rose to her feet, lifting her head. Her voice was clear as she spoke. "I will take this opportunity, My Lord." As turned to face her, cing a hand on her left shoulder. "We are all on the same ind, Zara. The same fate. We''re not just teammates; we''re family. Your pain is my pain. Our pain." She hesitated for a moment, then nodded firmly. "I will work hard and remain loyal to you forever." As gave her a small smile. "I know you''ll be someone extraordinary. You have the potential." They decided to camp by theke that night, amon open area often used by awakeners passing through the city to hunt in nearby zones or dungeons. The space was wide, with each group settling into separate areas, giving everyone enough room for privacy. Although some groups were close to each other, it still felt spacious and peaceful. As had already sent Kurogasa on a reconnaissance mission to gather intel on their target¡ªthe city mayor''s residence. While As could have easily taken direct action to settle this grudge, Edrik had devised a more strategic n, one that would deliver a far more devastating blow to their adversary. As the hours passed and night fell, the group remained on high alert, waiting for Kurogasa''s signal to proceed with their next move. Edrik, meanwhile, was focused on his own preparations to ensure the n went off without a hitch. A message arrived from Edrik. "This city mayor seems to be quite the gangster. He''s got plenty of awakeners with levels above 50 stationed at his residence." As read the message silently. The note continued. "Well, no need to worry though. Morganna and Kurogasa alone are more than enough to deal with them." As smirked faintly. Kaida and Garen prepared dinner for the group, setting up a small barbecue as the evening deepened. The scent of grilled meat filled the air, mingling with the cool breeze from theke. It was a strangely serene night, the kind of tranquility rarely found in a desert city. The lush grass, theke, and the surrounding trees made it feel like a different world entirely. Morganna sat alone on a bench near the water, her gaze distant as she stared at theke. As approached her, carrying two tes of food and two bottles of drink. Without a word, he set them down between them, then sat beside her, taking a bite of his grilled meat.@@novelbin@@ For a while, neither of them spoke. Morganna eventually picked up her te and began eating in silence. Moments like these were rare for As¡ªmoments where he could sit and talk without the pressure of training, nning, or fighting weighing on his shoulders. Earlier, he had spent time discussing strategies with Edrik and Kurogasa during their journey, shared personal reflections with Zara by theke, and checked in with the other team leaders near the fire. Now, he wanted to talk with Morganna. But what could he say that would interest her? Blood? No, talking about blood would only lead the conversation into territory that could ruin the atmosphere. It wasn''t the right time for that. Perhaps¡­ ask about her world? As weighed his options, considering what might genuinely capture the Vampire Queen''s interest. But maybe, just maybe, a glimpse into her past would pique her interest. "Do you know the grandest ughter I''ve ever done?" Morganna''s voice broke the silence, catching As off guard. He turned to her, surprised by the unexpectedment. She still stared out at theke. "Mind sharing?" he asked cautiously. Morganna turned to him, her crimson eyes¡ªwhich usually red to life under certain conditions¡ªnow appeared dimmer, almost muted. Those fiery eyes often served as a reflection of her emotional state, glowing faintly in moments of tension but zing at their brightest when she was on the cusp of battle. Now, however, they seemed subdued, not sure what was the reason. "I killed a world," she said. "The whole?" "Yes." He took a moment to process her words, the weight of them sinking in. Destroying a world wasn''t just an act of war¡ªit was annihtion on an unfathomable scale. The kind of conquest he had thought was nothing more than exaggerated tales. "Only by killing can we grow stronger. That''s the rule," she continued. "So if you''re hesitating about this, just let me show you how it''s done the right way." "Do I look like I''m hesitating?" "That''s a foolish way of thinking," she said. "If you''re questioning the morality of it all, you''re wasting your energy. The only ones who matter are those who have pledged their loyalty to you." As stayed silent, digesting her perspective. Was she reading his thoughts? Or had she merely seen through him? "If you think I''m insane, you''re wrong," Morganna said, her voice rising slightly. "You hold me back with your inexperienced mindset." As remained calm, choosing not to interrupt, sensing that she needed to let her thoughts flow freely. "The only way to survive is to be stronger. And the only way to do that is by killing!" She turned fully to him. "Kill or be killed," she said firmly. She continued, "I''m being generous by articting my words so carefully." As felt the anger burning inside him ever since he found out what had happened to Zara. He knew he couldn''t just ignore it without doing something. That same feeling he felt when he learned about Mira''s past¡ªhow her ssmates at the academy didn''t just bully her but even killed her parents right in front of her. "If you think you can seek peace by other means, you''re wrong," Morganna pressed on. "I''ve lived long enough to prove that''s not possible!" "Your path will not be easy," she added. At that moment, As''s Awakener Device chimed. A message from Edrik shed across the screen, confirming that the n was unfolding as predicted and that the follow-up wouldmence immediately. As stood, and the Vampire Queen rose with him. They faced each other in silence, their eyes locked. The moment was brief, yet it seemed to stretch on forever. "You''re doing¡­ not worse," she finally said. A faint smile tugged at his lips. Maybe that was the highest praise he could hope for from the Vampire Queen. Perhaps it was the first time he''d heard her speak so much in one sitting, or maybe she had far more to say than he''d ever given her credit for. After all, she had once been a Rank-9 Immortal¡ªa Lord with thousands of years of experience, victories, and defeats etched into her eternal life. As took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a brief moment before opening them again. His calm expression hardened. As long as he could still walk freely in this world, no¡ªhe would never doubt his decisions! "Let''s go," he said firmly. Morganna''s lips curved into a faint smile, and her crimson eyes red to life in response. Chapter 100 - Blood on the Mayors Hands "What are you saying, Callista? Are you insane? How? The fuck?! What''s wrong with your head?" the city mayor shouted. "She!" Callista screamed back, pointing toward Zara. "She''s here for revenge. For what you did to her family!" "Shut up! Callista!" The city mayor barked. "Say another word, and I''ll make you regret ever speaking!" Callista ignored him. Instead, she fell to her knees in front of Zara. "I know you''re here for justice¡­ for Rowen. He''s the one who destroyed your family. I had nothing to do with it! I swear, I was too scared to stop him. I couldn''t do anything, not even speak out." "Callista, shut up!" Rowen growled, grabbing her shoulder roughly and shoving her backward. Callista recoiled sharply, wrenching herself out of his grasp. "Don''t touch me, Rowen! Your sins are yours to bear alone. Don''t you dare drag me and our daughter into this mess!" Their young daughter, a blonde girl with short hair, broke down. She stepped forward shakily, falling to her knees before Zara. "Please, spare us! I don''t know anything about what my parents did. I''m still young¡ªI couldn''t stop them, I swear!" Rowen spun to face Callista again, grabbing her wrist and yanking her toward him. "Callista, you''ve crossed the line! Selling out your own husband. Do you think throwing me under the bus will save you? Do you?! Weren''t you the one who wanted more wealth? The one who pushed me to act, to give you the luxury you desired? You were the one who set all of it in motion!" Callista yanked her arm free with a furious re. "Don''t you dare twist this, Rowen! I never wanted this!" she screamed, stepping back. "You are the sinner here! You are the monster! Face this alone! I don''t want any part of your madness¡ªI know nothing, and I refuse to suffer with you!" Rowen staggered. "Callista! You¡ª!" Rowen, consumed by rage, lunged toward Callista, his hand aiming to grab her wrist. But Callista reacted swiftly, deflecting his attempt and forcing his grip aside. He managed to catch both of her hands, struggling to hold her back as their strength shed. "You wretch! You dare betray me?!" Rowen snarled. In response, Callista mmed her forehead toward him, trying to headbutt him, but Rowen anticipated it, jerking his head back to avoid the blow. In that same instant, he reached into his coat and pulled out... A knife. Everyone watched, yet no one stepped in to stop him. Rowen lunged and aimed the knife toward Callista''s stomach. But Callista twisted to the side at thest moment, shoving his arm away with all her strength. And then¡ªeverything stopped. Both of them froze, their eyes widening in disbelief. The knife hadn''t hit Callista. It had struck Thessara, their daughter, who had been standing just behind them. The young girl''s eyes flew wide with shock, her mouth opening in a silent scream as her hands instinctively flew to her throat. Blood gushed from the deep wound, spilling between her trembling fingers. Her small frame shook violently, her knees buckling as she copsed to the floor. Her body convulsed briefly before going still. "No! No! NO! Thess!" Callista shrieked. She lunged forward, scooping her daughter''s limp form into her shaking arms. "My baby! Please, no!" Her sobs echoed through the room. Rowen staggered backward, the knife slipping from his trembling fingers and ttering to the floor. His face turned pale, his mouth opening and closing, but no words came, just the horrific realization of what he had done.@@novelbin@@ "Thess... no¡­ Thess¡­" Callista whispered, rocking the girl in her arms. She pressed her tear-soaked cheek against her daughter''s motionless face. From the corridor, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed, growing louder as a crowd of people rushed toward the scene. When they arrived, they froze, their eyes widening in shock at the sight before them. Callista sat on the blood-soaked floor, cradling the lifeless body of her daughter, Thessara, her face streaked with tears. Not far from her, Rowen sat against the wall, his hands trembling, the bloodied knife he had dropped lying conspicuously on the ground. As and his group were already gone, vanishing without a trace. "Thess¡­ my baby!" Callista wailed as she turned her face to the onlookers. "He took her life! Rowen took my baby''s life!" Callista carefullyid her daughter''s body back on the floor. Her hands shook as she reached for the knife still lying where Rowen had dropped it. Gripping it tightly, she lunged at Rowen. "You killed my daughter! YOU KILLED MY CHILD! I''LL KILL YOU TOO, ROWEN!" Rowen barely reacted in time, stumbling backward as Callista thrust the knife toward him. He caught her wrist, struggling to wrestle the knife away. "You''re insane, Callista! Stop!" he shouted. "You murdered her! You''ll pay for it! I''ll make you pay!" Rowen, desperate, shoved her back, causing her to stumble. But Callista scrambled back to her feet. The crowd, growingrger with every passing second, could only stare in stunned silence. The horrific scene unfolded before their eyes like a nightmare brought to life, yet no one dared move at first. Finally, as Callista and Rowen grappled once more, several men in the crowd found their courage. They rushed forward, pulling the two apart. "Stop this! Enough!" "Hold her back! She''s going to kill him!" "Let me go! He killed my daughter! He deserves to die! Let me go!" *** Two advanced caravans rolled through the vast desert road under a dark sky, the first hints of dawn beginning to creep on the horizon. In the lead vehicle, As sat beside Edrik, who guided the caravan through the shifting sands. The dim glow of the dashboard screen illuminated the cabin, ying a live news broadcast summarizing the incident involving the city mayor. The report detailed the mayor''s crimes, his corruption, and the horrifying truth of how he had killed his own daughter. Yet, the mysterious deaths of the guards within the house remained unsolved, shrouded in silence. "We''re clean," Edrik said. "I made sure all the surveince cameras were taken offline. There''s no evidence pointing back to us. Nothing at all." As exhaled slowly, his eyes fixed on the barren road ahead. "That''s good. Even if they suspect us, Rowen doesn''t have the means toe after us. The world of Lords is far beyond their reach." "Agreed," Edrik replied. After a brief pause, As asked, "How''s Zara?" "Kaida said she''s fast asleep," Edrik replied. "And¡­ maybe this is the first time she''s ever slept this deeply." As frowned, turning to him. "What do you mean?" "Zara usually only sleeps for one or two hours a day, at most." "Seriously? I didn''t even know that was possible." Edrik shrugged slightly. "I think she developed that talent as a survival skill, her own way of coping with trauma." "I think I''d like a talent like that too," As said with a faint smile. "Imagine only needing to sleep one or two hours a day." After some time on the road, Edrik broke the silence again. "Any other agenda besides the ones tied to the Lord Battles?" "Yes," As replied. "Avenging Mira." Edrik nodded slowly. He already knew the story¡ªhow As had dived into Mira''s past and the pain she carried from her old world. After a brief pause, As continued. "Is there a way to visit other worlds? Mira''s world¡­ or any other world, without waiting thousands of years for the system to allow ess?" Chapter 102 - Lyrassas Whisper "Lyrassa?" As murmured softly as he looked up to find the girl kneeling gracefully before him. "Am I interrupting your rest, My Lord?" "No, I''ve had enough time to rest," he replied with a faint smile. "I just needed a moment to calm my mind." He patted the spot beside him. "Come." Lyrassa moved fluidly, settling next to his left with her legs tucked neatly to the side. As knew this was one of her favorite spots, so it wasn''t surprising to find her here. As a Nature Spirit, her connection to the natural world was undeniable. Her talent, Forest Heartbeat, tied her to the forests and their energies, making this serene haven the perfect ce for her. He realized he hadn''t spent much time talking with hertely, something he had been meaning to change. His intense training sessions were usually overseen by Kurogasa, and during his recent visit to the Lower Lands, he hadn''t brought her along. Even so, because of his bond with her¡ªone that went beyond mere loyalty. It felt deeper, a connection both emotional and personal, something he couldn''t fully articte but felt profoundly. For a while, they sat in silence, shoulders lightly touching. The serene atmosphere of the area wrapped around them, as if the grove itself was cradling them in its peace. The soft rustling of leaves, the vibrant colors of flowers, and the cool air made it feel like they were in a world apart. Even the distant sounds of the ind seemed unable to reach this secluded haven. "Do you have something to¡­" Lyrassa''s voice broke the silence. "Something you''d like to share with me, My Lord?" "Share?" As echoed, turning his head slightly toward her. Lyrassa met his gaze. She nodded gently, waiting for his response. It was just like her. Lyrassa always seemed to know things others couldn''t sense. Whether it was someone''s hidden emotions or unspoken thoughts, she had a way of reaching beneath the surface. On more than one asion, she''d even imed she could hear what people were thinking. As had experienced this firsthand enough times to believe her. While this uncanny skill didn''t appear explicitly in her list of talents, there was no doubt it existed¡ªand it always caught him off guard. "You''ve done your best for everyone, My Lord," Lyrassa said softly. As nodded slowly, acknowledging her words without speaking. Then, without warning, Lyrassa lifted her hands and gently touched his cheek. The moment her fingers made contact, As instinctively closed his eyes. A surge of calmness swept through him, silencing the chaos in his mind as though her touch had shut off the relentless whirlpool of thoughts. It was as if he were floating, his body rxing entirely under the influence of her soothing presence. He allowed the sensation to envelop him, her soft hand caressing his face, bringing a tranquility he hadn''t realized he needed. When he opened his eyes again, his gaze met hers. Lyrassa''s face was serene, her expression imbued with warmth and reassurance. "You treat everyone so well," she continued gently. "Everyone loves you." As remained silent. "You''ve carried this great responsibility with such strength," she went on. "And you''ve exceeded everyone''s expectations." Her eyes seemed to pull him in. As felt himself drawn, as though hypnotized by the quiet intensity in her gaze. "But," she said, her voice dropping into an even softer tone, "we can''t navigate this kind of battle, this kind of world, with pure hearts alone." Her right hand moved to rest on his chest. "For some people," she continued, "killing is not natural. It''s not something they can ept. It''s not something they can see as right." As shook his head slowly. Her words cut too close, echoing the turmoil that had taken root in his thoughts¡ªthe weight of the wars he''d fought, the lives taken, and the people who had died in service to him. Could she feel the chaos in my mind? The lingering doubts, the guilt of every life lost in these battles, of those who gave their lives for me? Lyrassa''s gaze softened as she drew her hand back slightly, resting it gently on herp. Her voice was calm yet profound as she spoke. "My Lord," she began, "do you know what it truly means to exist as part of nature?" As tilted his head slightly, listening intently. "It means to grow, to nurture, to protect," she continued. "But it also means to destroy, to take life when it is necessary. Nature thrives on bnce¡ªbetween creation and destruction, between peace and war." Her expression grew pensive, her eyes meeting him. "For centuries, I have fought battles of my own. I have stood by and defended every Lord who called upon me, giving my all¡ªeven when it meant taking lives." She paused, her words hanging in the air between them. "It was not easy," she admitted softly. "Every branch broken, every de of grass trampled, every life taken weighed on me." Her voice faltered for a moment, then steadied as she went on. "But I learned something valuable. To protect what is precious, we must sometimes be the storm that shatters the branches. We must be the fire that burns away the overgrowth. It is not an act of cruelty, but one of necessity. Nature itself abides by this truth. When a tree falls, its death enriches the soil, making way for new growth. When a predator hunts, it ensures bnce in the ecosystem, keeping life sustainable for all." Leaning in slightly, her tone grew even gentler.@@novelbin@@ "I have survived battles not by hardening my heart, but by epting this bnce. I do not fight for vengeance or glory. I fight for those who cannot defend themselves alone, for the future that deserves to be nurtured. Yes, I have taken lives, but I have also saved them, healed them, and guided those lost back to the light." Her gaze softened even more. "The burdens you carry now, no matter how heavy, are part of this bnce. We do not take life without purpose, and we do not fight for ourselves alone. Every battle, every sacrifice, is for those under your care. And though it pains you, that pain is a gift¡ªit keeps you human. It keeps your heart aligned with what truly matters." She ced her hand lightly on his chest once more, the warmth of her touch grounding him in the moment. "Even in the darkest of battles, you can still grow. Just as nature endures through storms and droughts, so will you. You are stronger than you realize, My Lord." As smiled softly at Lyrassa''s exnation. It was, without a doubt, a unique perspective¡ªone shaped by her own experiences and connection to nature. Yet, as he listened, he found himself tranting her words into something that resonated with his own understanding. "That''s certainly a unique perspective, Lyrassa. Thanks," he said with a quiet chuckle. Lyrassa smiled back, shaking her head gently. "I only said what needed to be said. But remember, My Lord, it''s you who has fought to reach this point. I know you have the strength to aplish far greater things." As nodded slowly. "I sure do." For a moment, their eyes met, and the tranquility in her presence drew As closer. Almost instinctively, he leaned in, resting against her and allowing himself to fall into her embrace. In her arms, he found a warmth and peace he hadn''t realized he needed. It wasn''t justfort¡ªit was grounding, a quiet reassurance that seemed to piece together the fragments of his weary mind. They remained like that for some time, the minutes slipping by unnoticed. Gradually, the tension in his body eased, and rity began to settle over his thoughts. At some point, without realizing it, As had rested his head in herp. Lyrassa cradled him patiently, her touch gentle and deliberate as if she understood the depth of his exhaustion. The grove around them remained still, its serenity wrapping them in an ethereal calm. Time passed, and As eventually stirred, the haze of sleep lifting as he remembered his uing meeting with Edrik and Kurogasa to discuss his new ss. Chapter 106 - Thunderpierce Thrust As made his way to the training ground, his excitement barely contained. Before him stood the Sentinel Training Mannequin, ready to spare with him to test the new skills he had just acquired. He spun his spear in a smooth arc, feeling the swift and fluid movement as though it were an extension of his own body. With each motion, a surge of energy coursed through him, leaving him invigorated. Taking a defensive stance, a faint aura of water and lightning enveloped his body, harmonizing with the natural energy from his spear. Thebined effect was breathtaking¡ªa fusion of Oceanic Blessing and his newly unlocked skill: Tempest Guard. [Elite - Tempest Guard (Conditional Passive Skill) Lv. 8] [A defensive stance enhanced by water and lightning energy. The passive effect grants a consistent defensive buff, while the activeponent triggers a counter-shockwave when parrying. Passive Effect: Increases defense by 15% for 7 seconds after entering the stance. Triggered on Sessful Parry: Releases a shockwave that deals 100% AoE damage to enemies within 3 meters. Restores a small amount of stamina per sessful parry.] This skill was nothing short of extraordinary. Every time As adopted a defensive stance, his defense was automatically boosted by 15%. On top of that, whenever he sessfully parried an attack, a burst of AoE damage radiated outwards, and he gained stamina regeneration! "Seriously?! This skill is ridiculously overpowered!" He could already imagine the potential Tempest Guard would bring to his battles, offering not only exceptional defense but also the ability to turn every block into an opportunity for a counterattack. As dashed forward, spear in hand, ready to test his new skills. The Training Mannequin responded in kind, wielding a spear of its own. They exchanged quick strikes, sidestepping and dodging, until their weapons shed with a resounding impact. A shockwave of energy erupted from the collision, sending the Training Mannequin skidding backward. As felt a surge of energy pulse through his chest, as though his heart had been electrified. Seizing the moment, he lunged forward with blinding speed, delivering an overhead strike! The Training Mannequin, however, managed to parry the attack, forcing As to recover quickly. The sh continued, each move fluid and precise, until As executed another parry. This time, however, the expected shockwave didn''t follow. He stepped back, allowing some distance between him and the Training Mannequin, which also moved into a neutral, standby position. "It seems the skill has a cooldown," As murmured. He realized that mastering his new abilities would require understanding their limitations and timing. Still, Tempest Guard was a passive-triggered skill. As long as he adapted his battle style to take full advantage of it, the potential for bigger impacts inbat was immense. As turned his focus to analyzing his second skill. [Elite - Thunderpierce Thrust (Active Skill) Lv. 7] [A precise, lightning-infused thrust aimed at a single target, designed to pierce armor and disrupt enemies. Deals 230% damage in a single powerful strike. Ignores 25% of the target''s defense. 15% chance to paralyze the target for 1.5 seconds.] When As reviewed the details of the Tempest Warden ss, he found information about four primary skills he would eventually unlock. However, none of them were explicitly designed for single-targetbat. This was why Kurogasa had pointed out that the ss''s single-target potential was weaker whenpared to its formidable AoE capabilities. However, with the addition of his newly unlocked skill, Thunderpierce Thrust, alongside Flurry of Spears, Oceanic Blessing from the Wavebreaker Spear, and his Elemental Spear Mastery talent, the equation changed significantly. Elemental Spear Mastery, his S-rated talent, significantly enhanced his ability to channel elemental powers into his spear techniques. It boosted both his offensive and defensive capabilities, making his strikes more precise and devastating while allowing his defenses to adapt fluidly to different situations. Oceanic Blessing, a passive ability of the Wavebreaker Spear, reduced iing damage, pierced through enemy defenses, and asionally summoned an oceanic spear to deal extra damage. Each strike from this blessing also slowed the target''s attack speed, adding a crippling effect that turned single-target engagements in his favor. Bybining these four abilities, As realized he had drastically elevated his single-target damage potential. With precise execution and proper timing, his single-targetbat was no longer a weakness¡ªin fact, it had reached a level he could confidently rate as 5 stars! However, Kurogasa''s concern remained valid. While As''s single-target damage potential had been significantly boosted, it could reach even greater heights with a weapon whose skill set was entirely focused on single-targetbat. The ability to switch between two specialized weapons during battle would allow him to deliver a more devastating impact, adapting to different scenarios with precision. He considered asking Baldric to craft such a spear for him. Yet, a doubt lingered in his mind¡ªcould Baldric, in his current state, forge a weapon capable of rivaling the Legendary-grade Wavebreaker Spear? As sighed thoughtfully. It''s not about doubting Baldric''s skills¡ªit''s the resources and time it would take to create something of that caliber. Still, the idea of a spear crafted specifically for single-targetbat was enticing, and it might be worth exploring once Baldric had the means to work at his peak potential. From the defensive perspective, thebination of Lifebound Shield, Tempest Guard, and the damage reduction provided by Oceanic Blessing ensures As also has a 5 stars defense rating. Here''s why: Lifebound Shield and Tempest Guard: These provide robust defensive capabilities. Lifebound Shield adds a durableyer of protection, while Tempest Guard enhances defense by 15% in a defensive stance, retaliates with AoE damage upon a sessful parry, and regenerates stamina. Oceanic Blessing: The passive effect from the Wavebreaker Spear reduces iing damage while debuffing enemies, slowing their attack speed, and providing overallbat. Alright! The final skill: [Elite - Tempest Arc (Active Skill) Lv. 4] [A wide, sweeping spear attack that creates a wave of water and lightning to strike multiple enemies in front. Deals 160% damage to all enemies within a 6-meter cone. Reduces affected enemies'' movement speed by 32% for 3 seconds. Reduces affected enemies'' stamina regeneration by 14% for 5 seconds.] Tempest Arc is undoubtedly a powerful new AoE skill that further enhances his already overpowered arsenal from the Wavebreaker Spear. Not only does it deliver devastating AoE damage, but it also provides crowd control by disrupting enemy formations and movements. Additionally, it applies debuffs to targets, making them more vulnerable or limiting their capabilities duringbat. A perfect addition to his skillset, solidifying his dominance in AoE damage and battlefield control. As resumed his practice against the Training Mannequin, this time focusing entirely on the three new skills he had unlocked. He aimed to familiarize himself with their mechanics and integrate them seamlessly into hisbat style. [Elite - Tempest Guard (Conditional Passive Skill) Lv. 8] Stay connected via empire The first skill focused on defense, triggered by performing a parry. It not only boosted his defensive capabilities but also regenerated stamina, making it a critical tool for maintaining his endurance during prolonged battles. [Elite - Thunderpierce Thrust (Active Skill) Lv. 7] The second skill was a powerful single-target strike, designed to deliver precise and devastating damage to key enemies. Its speed and piercing force made it an excellent choice for eliminating high-priority targets. [Elite - Tempest Arc (Active Skill) Lv. 4] The third skill excelled in AoE damage. It unleashed wide-range attacks capable of hitting multiple enemies while also offering crowd control, disrupting enemy formations and giving him a significant advantage in group battles. Through repeated practice, As began to see the synergy between the skills, eachplementing the other to create a well-rounded and formidablebat style. As spent the rest of the day honing his new set of skills, practicing tirelessly against the Training Mannequin. He also began integrating the Shadow element into hisbat style, knowing that mastery over this synergy would take time. His goal was clear: to make every movement andbination seamless, enhancing his versatility in battle.@@novelbin@@ As night fell, As gathered with Edrik and the others to discuss strategies forpleting the quests tied to the Tempest Warden ss. Unlocking more skills would be essential to realizing the full potential of his new role. The first quest on the list was titled: "The Crushing Tide." Chapter 110 - Surfs Up, My Lord! "Mira!" As''s heart raced as he scanned the area, slipping slightly on the slick rocks. Finally, he spotted her¡ªclinging upside-down to the cliff wall, her legs syed awkwardly as if she were some kind of overenthusiastic lizard. Her face, however, was lit with excitement. "Hahaha! My Lord, this is fun!" she said,ughing gleefully before promptly losing her grip and tumbling forward. As sprinted over to make sure the girl was truly unharmed¡ªincluding her head, which had hit the cliff wall. Well, as for what was inside her head¡­ that wasn''t something to worry about. It didn''t seem like it had been in a normal state to begin with. Before he could say more, another massive wave loomed, surging toward them. As pulled Mira behind arge boulder, knowing it would provide some cover. The wave crashed, water roaring around them. He spotted Lyrassa rushing toward them. But the wave struck faster than she could reach them. As felt himself thrown by the force of the water, mming into Mira and pinning her against the cliff wall. "Is she okay?!" He thought. To his shock, even amidst the chaos and the overwhelming surge of water, her face broke into a wide grin. Sheughed hysterically as if she were on the ride of her life. "Is she seriously okay?!" The wave''s retreat dragged them both back toward the boulder, where they collided heavily. "My Lord, this is fun! Hahaha! I love it!" she giggled, gripping him tightly. As barely had time to catch his breath as another wave began to form. If they couldn''t hold onto the boulder, the ocean''s pull might drag them out into the depths, leaving them at the mercy of the current¡ªor worse, lost entirely. Kurogasa appeared nearby, attempting to exin something, but his voice was drowned out by the deafening roar of the wave. The next moment, the water smashed into them again, and As was hurled backward, his body mming against the cliff. Eugh! His back felt like it had been shattered into a hundred pieces. Then, something soft collided with him from the front. Dazed, As realized it was Mira, who had been thrown directly into him. As the wave receded, they were flung once more toward the boulder,nding heavily. Eugh! As groaned, his lungs burning as he struggled for air. He had to figure out a way to secure them before the next wave hit¡ªor they might not be able to stay onnd for much longer. Between each retreat of the massive waves, Kurogasa continued exining. As did his best to focus on Kurogasa''s words while enduring the relentless assault. Lyrassa, thankfully, had secured both him and Mira to the ground with vines, preventing them from being swept out to sea. "My Lord, let me exin exactly how you managed to survive that monster of a wave." Another wave smashed into them, hurling As face-first into the cliff. Blood trickled from his nose as he groaned in pain. Mira? Stillughing and having the time of her life. "First off," Kurogasa began, "your Water Affinity is what will guide you to master the wave. When it hits, don''t try to fight it. Instead, let the force of the water flow around you. The protective barrier you''ve conjured will soften the impact, giving you just enough space to take action." "Then, there was your Earth Affinity. Right before the wave mmed into you, I noticed how you instinctively anchored yourself in the sand. Smart thinking. That connection to the ground gave you the stability you needed to hold your position." As tightened his grip on his spear, using it to brace himself as another wave began to build. Holding onto the weapon was bing increasingly difficult as the relentless water battered him. His entire body felt like it had been beaten down, bruised and cut from head to toe. "Andstly," Kurogasa added, "your Irond Will. It kept your head clear when panic might''ve made you freeze. Most people would''ve lost their wits staring down a wave of that size, but not you. That resolve is why you''re still here, My Lord." Another massive wave roared toward them, and As braced himself, gripping his spear tightly as he prepared to endure yet another assault. "Great¡­ now I just need to survive one more lecture and not drown in the process," he muttered to himself.@@novelbin@@ As steeled himself, spinning his spear as he focused intently on drawing elemental particles around him for protection. "Strengthen your footing¡ªwater! Let it flow around you!" he thought, grounding himself firmly as the massive wave surged forward. He let the energy of the water course through his body, attempting to move with the force rather than against it. "Split the wave!" With a determined shout, As swung his spear in an overhead strike, aiming to cut through the iing wall of water. And then¡ª WHAM! The wave mmed into him with relentless force, sending him hurtling backward. His body collided violently with the cliff wall, and sharp rocks dug into his back. "Eugh!" he groaned. I''m dead. This is how I die. Nearby, Mira clung effortlessly to arge rock. "My Lord, I know you can do it! Let''s go, My Lord!" Lyrassa, standing behind her protective vines, called out. "My Lord, you''re doing wonderfully." Kurogasa gave a respectful bow toward As. "Thanks. I always knew you enjoyed watching me suffer like this." Lyrassa chuckled softly. "I''ll always celebrate your sesses, My Lord." Another massive wave approached, roaring louder than the one before. As braced himself again, fortifying his body with the elemental particles he had gathered. The wave hit. No! As was flung backward once more, tumbling through the chaotic water. This time, his mouth filled with seawater as he choked down a hefty gulp. Eugh! Great. If the waves don''t kill me, I''ll probably drown from drinking half the ocean. As released Zefyros, his spirit beast, who immediately leapt into the sand, crackling with electricity. However, Zefyros''s enthusiasm sent stray bolts of lightning shooting out, one of which struck Mira. "Zefyros! Stop with the big sparks!" Mira shouted. Zefyros zipped toward the iing wave, diving headfirst into the ocean and vanishing beneath the surface. As steadied himself once more, gripping his spear tightly as the next massive wave crashed down. It sent him hurtling back into the cliff wall yet again, his muscles screaming in protest. He clung to his spear with all his strength, refusing to let go. This cycle repeated for hours. Wave after wave, As endured the brutal impact, struggling to channel the elemental particles and hoping for even the slightest breakthrough. But with each punishing hit, he began to notice something. The flow of the waves, their rhythm, and the way they surged and receded¡ªhe could feel it now. He started to anticipate when the wave would throw him back and how its force would pull him forward. As adjusted his footing, bracing himself with newfound awareness. I can do this, he thought, determination ring within him. I can finish this training. "Let''s go, My Lord!" Mira cheered from a distance, her forehead bleeding. "You can do it, My Lord," Lyrassa called. Focusing deeply, As let the elemental water surround him, feeling its energy resonate within him. He spun his spear, preparing for the next massive wave as it approached. The wave loomed higher, roaring as it crashed toward him. At the perfect moment, As swung his spear in an overhead strike. Split the wave! The wave cleaved in two, parting momentarily before closing again and crashing into him. As was flung backward, but this time hended on his feet, nting his spear firmly into the sand. Digging in with all his strength, he held his ground against the powerful pull of the water, his body leaning forward as if in defiance of the wave''s might. He focused on staying calm, letting his body align with the flow of the water rather than resisting it. As the wave retreated back into the ocean, As remained standing, only inches away from the cliff wall. For the first time, he had managed to endure the wave without being thrownpletely off bnce. It wasn''t perfect, but it was progress. As he looked around, he noticed the sky had begun to darken. The day was nearing its end, but he knew he had made a breakthrough! Chapter 112 - Evaluate your Strength [The Current Season of Dominion Skirmish is about to begin. Prepare yourself, Lords of Dominion!] [Lords of Dominion, the time hase to prove your strength and strategic brilliance! The gates to the Skirmish Arena are now open, granting each of you a rare opportunity to im glory and resources for your domain.] [Here are the key details:] [- Each Lord with ess to the current Dominion Skirmish may choose to participate; unused tokens will expire.] [- Select three inds from avable options to battle for control and dominance.] [- You have two weeks to prepare your forces, refine your strategies, and secure your alliances before the battle begins.] [Remember, participation is not only a chance to test your mettle but also to forge your legacy in the Dominion''s history. The rewards for sess are unmatched¡ªdon''t let this chance slip away!] [Prepare your troops, sharpen your des, and strengthen your forces. The battlefield awaits yourmand!"]@@novelbin@@ Finally! The announcement for the Dominion Skirmish had arrived. The timing couldn''t have been more perfect, as As had justpleted his first quest for his new ss. Although, after rereading the details, he noted they still had two weeks to prepare. However, even two weeks felt like an incredibly short amount of time. The Dominion Skirmish wasn''t just a battle¡ªit was a high-stakes war, far more challenging than a normal Lord Battle, which was merely a one-on-one encounter. In the Skirmish, truly advanced strategies would be essential to secure the most optimal rewards. Every move had to be calcted, every choice deliberate, to maximize their chances of sess. There was much to discuss, and time was already ticking. That evening, As decided to conclude their current training session and return to Gacha Haven to prepare for the next phase. The Skirmish wasing, and they needed every advantage they could muster. As usual, a strategy meeting was promptly arranged. Almost all of As''s elite subordinates were in attendance¡ªexcept for Mira, of course! Edrik took the lead, standing at the front to exin the critical details and considerations for this pivotal battle. With experienced Lords in his arsenal, As was determined to leverage every ounce of their knowledge to secure the best possible resources from this Skirmish. "In this Dominion Skirmish, we can choose three inds topete for," Edrik began, his voice steady. "This is quite unique because, in my world, we were only allowed to select one floating ind for Rank 1." "Really?" As replied, his brow furrowing. "What about the rest of you?" He nced around the room. "Same here, My Lord. Only one," Kurogasa answered. The others chimed in with simr experiences, nodding in agreement. Edrik continued. "I''ll break down the strategy for selecting inds step by step so that you, My Lord, can make the most informed decision when the timees." "Sure, Edrik," As said, leaning forward. "Please, throw everything you know about this battle my way." "With pleasure," Edrik replied. "I''ll try to keep this as concise as possible," Edrik continued. "First, Evaluate our Strength. Before selecting inds, we need a clear analysis of our resources, subordinates, and overall readiness. "Troop Composition: Do we have enough diversity? Melee, ranged, support, and other roles need to be bnced to handle multiple scenarios. Are our Elite Subordinates equipped with specialized skills for key roles¡ªsiege, defense, or ambush? "Resource Stockpile: Ensure we have enough supplies for prolonged battles, such as mana crystals, healing items, and food. If not, consider inds rich in resources we''recking to bolster our troops or improve our ind. "Ind Affinity: Align the environment of the chosen inds with the strengths of our team. For example, if our forces have high fire resistance, volcanic or desert inds might be advantageous." As listened intently, letting the importance of the first point sink in. Edrik''s breakdown was thorough, highlighting the critical factors that must be considered when choosing inds for battle. And that was just the first point. As nodded, signaling Edrik to continue. Edrik nodded and pressed on. "Second, Assess the Inds Avable. Each ind offers unique attributes. Consider these factors carefully: "Resource Value: Does the ind have rare resources? High-value inds often attract fiercepetition, but the rewards usually justify the added risk. "Ind Size: Larger inds are harder to control, requiring more troops and better coordination. Smaller inds are easier to defend but may yield fewer points or rewards. "Environment: Simr to what I exined earlier, align the ind''s terrain with our forces'' strengths. "Strategic Layout: I''ll go into more detail on this when we discuss the rules of the Dominion Skirmish." As absorbed the information, nodding thoughtfully. The exnation was concise, yet it underscored just how many factors needed consideration. Even with just these two points, it was clear that nning for the Skirmish required a meticulous and strategic approach. Still, this was only the beginning. There was much more to prepare before they could confidently face the challenge ahead. Edrik continued without pause. "Third, Research Potential Opponents. Since Lords can choose inds one rank higher than their own, anticipate encountering strongerpetitors and alliances." As nodded again, his mind turning over this new piece of information. He hadn''t fully analyzed the battle rules yet, and it dawned on him now just how significant this option was. Participating in a Dominion Skirmish at a higher rank certainly offered greater rewards¡ªbut the risks would scale ordingly. Edrik borated further. "Some inds may attract allied Lords working together. It''s important to evaluate whether such alliances are likely and decide on a strategy¡ªdo we disrupt their ns or negotiate terms? "Rank Consideration: Battling one rank higher promises better rewards butes with significantly increased dangers. "Any questions so far, My Lord?" Edrik asked. "No, please continue, Edrik," As replied. Edrik nodded slightly and moved to his next point. Explore more at empire "Fourth, Strategic Ind Selection. When choosing 1¨C3 inds, we need to prioritize several factors. "Risk vs. Reward: High-value inds typically attract more participants but offer greater rewards. If we''re underprepared, it''s wiser to target mid-tier inds with moderatepetition. "Number of Participants: Avoid inds likely to be overcrowded. Focus on those where we can reliably secure a fort or key control points." Edrik paused briefly and nced at As. "Am I exining this in a way that''s too difficult to follow?" As smiled faintly. "No, Edrik. I can tell these insightse from your long experience. The points you''ve outlined are clear and precise. I''ve understood everything you''ve exined so far, though I''ll definitely need more suggestions when ites to finalizing our ind targets." Edrik gave a measured nod. "That''s correct, My Lord. Since we can choose up to three inds to contest, our strategy needs to ount for a bnced approach. I believe most Lords will alsobine their ind choices using simr criteria. We cannot afford to select only high-reward inds. For at least one or two, we should aim for inds that allow a viable retreat if securing a win bes impossible." "That''s definitely something I''ll need time to grasp fully," As admitted, his tone thoughtful. "What about moving on to specific ind rmendations, Edrik? Would that be a good next step?" "I think we can transition to that," Edrik replied. Chapter 114 - The Shattered Ember Gamble As and his elite subordinates focused intently as they revisited the critical choices before them. The opportunity they faced¡ªa Floating Ind with a dynamic environment¡ªwas an extraordinarily rare discovery. Its existence would inevitably attract fiercepetition from all who knew about it, each determined to im it for themselves. This ind was ranked as a Tier-2 territory, meaning their opponents would range from level 50 to 100. That put As and his team at a clear disadvantage in terms of sheer power. Yet, could they truly afford to pass up such a golden opportunity? Baldric, the cksmith, broke the silence. "As, even if we can''t im the ind itself, we could stillpete within it. My suggestion is to use the battle phase to hunt for materials we need to craft the Soul Binding Armor. I believe it''s a chance worth taking." As nodded, weighing Baldric''s proposal. Dominion Skirmishes were prolonged battles, stretching up to two months. Even if they concentrated solely on gathering materials, the effort would still prove highly worthwhile. Edrik chimed in. "We could adopt a specialized strategy. Deploy scouts and spies to locate our targets, then send more people to hunt or harvest the resources we need." "So, are you saying we shouldn''t engage in directbat with the Rank-2 lords?"@@novelbin@@ As wasn''t underestimating the strength of their potential opponents, but he wanted to assess whether the risk was truly so great that itpletely ruled out their chances ofpeting for control of the ind. Edrik bowed his head slightly in deference. "I can offer strategies if you decide to force a confrontation at this rank." "What are our chances if we go for it?" Edrik bowed again and replied, "We have ways to increase our odds, with careful nning and tactical execution. Ultimately, though, it''s your call, As. In my experience, fighting opponents one rank above is manageable if the troops are well-prepared, especially with an advantage to set us apart from others in our own rank." As nodded firmly, his expression resolute as he began to speak. "Alright, based on the reasons you''ve all presented, including this ind in our options seems like a promising decision. The worst-case scenario is that we retreat immediately if the opponents are beyond our reach," he said, ncing at each member of the group. He continued, "We still have the other two inds as backup targets to fight for. However, if there''s even a decent chance for us to contend for the Rank-2 ind, I believe it''s worth exploring further." Edrik nodded in agreement and replied, "I''ll summarize everything again and refine the n to make it more robust." "I trust all of you," As said. Edrik thenid out the final three rmendations for their approach to the Dominion Skirmish. "The first option," he began, "is the Rank-2 Floating Ind, the Shattered Ember Isles. This is a high-risk, high-reward choice. Not only does it provide us the opportunity to gather materials necessary for crafting the Soul Binding Armor, but if we manage to take control of the ind, its value will be immense." He paused briefly before moving to the next option. Find adventures on My Virtual Library Empire "The second option is the Emerald de. This choice carries moderate risk and offers moderate rewards. However, we have a distinct advantage here due to Mira and Lyrassa''s expertise in forested environments. Their strengths could tip the scales in our favor." Finally, Edrik addressed the third option. "For thest choice, we need to consider a moderate-to-high-risk option with high potential rewards. We have two options here: the Crimson Pyre and the Azure Dunes. Both offer significant benefits, but they alsoe with their own challenges. We''ll need to decide which aligns better with our strengths and resources." As responded. "What are the key considerations, Edrik?" Edrik replied, "Both options are nearly identical in terms of difficulty. However, the Crimson Pyre offers better resources overall. On the other hand, if you aim to give Zefyros more opportunities to excel in aquatic terrains, then the Azure Dunes would be the better choice." As nodded slowly, weighing the options carefully. "I think giving Zefyros the chance to grow further would be a significant benefit for us in the long run." "I agree with that," Edrik affirmed. Atst, the decisions were made. The three floating inds were finalized, and As quickly registered their choices with the system. Now, all that remained was to wait for the appointed time tomence the Dominion Skirmish! However, the preparations for the Dominion Skirmish were far fromplete. Choosing the inds was only the first step. The team still needed to thoroughly discuss the rules of engagement within the skirmish. With that, they moved to the next topic, and Edrik began exining the details. "The crucial point in a Dominion Skirmish," Edrik started, "is that the faction which umtes the most Dominion Points by the end of the season earns the right to control the targeted ind." As noted this down, nodding. "Dominion Points, got it." Edrik continued, "You can earn Dominion Points by killing monsters and collecting materials. However, the most efficient method is to take control of the Key Zones." He paused for a moment before borating further. "Typically, there are three types of Key Zones: the Central Fortress, the Outer Forts, and Supply Depots." [Central Fortress: The primary objective on each ind, offering the highest Dominion Points (DP) but demanding significantmitment and resources to maintain control.] [Outer Forts: Secondary objectives that yield consistent DP while granting strategic benefits such as buffs or improved ess to vital resources.] [Supply Depots: Optional zones that do not generate DP but provide essential resources, such as stamina recovery and defensive enhancements, crucial for sustaining troops during prolonged battles.] As nodded again, processing the information. "So, if we decide not topete directly for control of the ind, our strategy would focus solely on monster hunting and resource gathering, ignoring the Key Zones entirely?" "Correct," Edrik confirmed. He went on, "DP are awarded hourly for maintaining control of these zones. The Central Fortress yields the highest Dominion Points per hour, which is why the lords vying for the inds often concentrate their battles around these strategic areas." "I understand," As replied. They delved deeper into the strategy, covering every critical detail of the battle. Discussions began with resource management during the skirmish, transitioning to the ideas of forming alliances, and the most effective ways to navigate each phase of the Dominion Skirmish. As meticulously took notes, absorbing the extensive knowledge shared by Edrik and the others. He fully grasped the depth of their insights and the sheer amount of time and effort they had invested to gain such wisdom. It was easy to imagine how a new lord entering a battle of this scale, armed with little more than basic information and no alliances, would struggle to make sense of everything. For As, however, the situation was entirely different. He had the advantage of an exceptional team of elite subordinates. Despite their collective experiences, none of his subordinates confidently imed that the battle would be easier due to their experience. As viewed this as a reflection of their humility and respect for him as their leader. Even Kurogasa, Lyrassa, Milo, and Morganna¡ªamong the most seasoned of the group¡ªoffered only minimal input during the discussion. The exception was Kurogasa, who asionally provided insights when Edrik specifically sought his perspective. Perhaps the challenges presented by Rank-1 or even Rank-2 Dominion Skirmishes weren''t yet demanding enough to warrant detailed contributions from everyone. Still, he recognized one undeniable truth: no amount of knowledge would matter without thorough preparation and raw power to back it up. Without those, all their carefully crafted strategies and hard-earned wisdom would ultimately be wasted. Their goal was clear: push everyone to grow stronger as quickly as possible and maximize their use of resources through the knowledge they had painstakingly acquired. This was not just a battle¡ªit was a calcted leap toward their ultimate objectives. Chapter 116 - Veylor for Eclipse The level 55 fish monster erupted from theke, its massive maw gaping wide, ready to swallow As whole. Reacting instantly, As summoned his Wavebreaker Spear, his body enveloped in a surge of water and crackling lightning. Without hesitation, he activated his Mana Glider Cloak once more, halting his descent just above the monster''s snapping maw. Spinning the spear deftly in mid-air, As prepared for a decisive strike. Channeling his energy, he unleashed the skill. [Elite - Thunderpierce Thrust (Active Skill) Lv. 7 activated] Continue reading on My Virtual Library Empire He surged downward like a lightning bolt, driving the spear into the top of the monster''s maw. The weapon pierced deep, sending an electrified surge across the fish''s body. Before it could retaliate, Zefyros burst from the water, hovering beside As. Seizing the moment, As unleashed another skill. Simultaneously, Zefyros manipted the water surrounding the fish, creating a swirling barrier that prevented the creature from retreating back into the depths. [Elite - Flurry of Spears Lv. 3 activated] The spear became a blur, striking the fish with relentless precision. Each hit rippled through the monster''s massive frame, scattering blood into theke. Overwhelmed, the beast thrashed briefly before copsing back into the water with a colossal ssh. [You have killed Rare - Riftscale Titan Lv. 55] [You received 4.595 Exp] [Exp: 98.429/228.266] As As began to fall toward theke, Zefyros surged beneath him, creating a wave that propelled him upward and allowed him to stand atop the water. The fish floated lifelessly to the surface. As grinned, leaping onto the fish''s back and bncing confidently. Turning toward thekeshore, he saw his subordinates cheering and waving, their triumphant shouts echoing across the water. Raising his spear high, As acknowledged their cheers. CREAKKK! Zefyros let out a sharp cry before diving behind the massive fish and pushing it toward the shore with powerful waves. As couldn''t help but smile as he saw the others'' enthusiastic reactions. "We''re having fish tonight!" he shouted, grinning. Once the fish reached the shore, Karian leapt to the water. With a grunt of effort, he dragged the massive fish further onto solid ground. As hadn''t anticipated that theke''s inhabitants would grow to such enormous sizes¡ªor that there might still be evenrger monsters lurking beneath the surface. Oddly, the thought didn''t intimidate him; instead, it sparked a strange curiosity. This was a ce teeming with monsters, after all, so they wouldn''t be able to rx without setting proper guard shifts. Still, their time at re Peak had prepared them well. They had faced creatures d in moltenva there, andpared to that, the challenges of this ind seemed more manageable. Karian quickly got to work, using his greatsword to cut the massive fish into sections. Even with the sheer size of the creature raised the question of whether it would be enough to feed all 100 of them. Realizing they might need more fish to ensure a satisfying meal for everyone, As reached into his Inventory and pulled out a Rank-A Item: Endless Fishing Rod. At first nce, it appeared to be an ordinary fishing rod, but the craftsmanship was exceptional, and he imagined the rod was sturdy enough to be used as a weapon if needed. "Garen, take it," As said, holding the rod out. The towering, broad-shouldered Garen approached with a respectful bow before epting the rod from his lord''s hands. "Catch more fish for dinner." "Yes, My Lord," Garen replied, gripping the rod firmly. As smiled as he watched his troops eagerly working together to carve up the enormous fish. The atmosphere was lively, filled withughter and banter as they prepared the unexpected feast. He couldn''t help but let his mind wander. How beautiful these floating inds truly were¡ªces of serenendscapes and untamed wilderness. He wondered, with a touch of irony, what it would be like if thesends weren''t contested through endless battles.@@novelbin@@ Imagine if ces like this could be visited by people from the lowernds, free from war and bloodshed. But that wasn''t the purpose of these floating inds. They were designed for conquest, for conflict, where only the strongest imed ownership. Lost in thought, As leaned back in his camping chair, soaking in the warm sun. The gentle breeze carried the scent of theke, calming his mind, until a familiar figure approached. Kurogasa. The Ninja Rat appeared silently, bowing deeply before As. His sudden presence snapped As out of his musings. Sitting upright, As gave a nod of acknowledgment. "My Lord, I have the report," Kurogasa said in his usual quiet, serious tone. "Please," As replied. Kurogasa bowed slightly before delivering his report. "There are five Lords scattered across this ind¡ªthree from Rank-1 and two from Rank-2. Their troop numbers exceed 100 each. Most of them are out hunting, while some are fishing in theke for food." As absorbed the information quietly, his mind already calcting the risks. After a brief pause, he spoke decisively. "Tighten the patrols. Stay on high alert. If we cross paths with any of them, I want to know immediately." "Yes, My Lord." Kurogasa bowed once more before vanishing into the shadows. With all the preparationsplete and the team ready to begin their hunt, As stood tall at the front, nked by his elite subordinates. Before him, thebatants and workers stood in neat rows. "Today," he began, "I will appoint a new leader to take charge of the fifth team." A ripple of excitement spread through the ranks. Faces lit up with anticipation. As had already discussed this decision with his elite subordinates and felt confident in his choice. The individual he had in mind wasn''t merely capable¡ªhe was extraordinary, someone who stood out from the rest. And, as fate would have it, this remarkable recruit had arrived through the Gateway Altar. "Veylor," As called. All heads turned to a figure standing near the middle of the formation. And, it wasn''t¡­ a human. It was a wolf. No¡ªa massive, upright wolf, towering above most of the others. His thick ck fur gleamed under the sunlight, and his muscr frame was d in reinforced armor that fit snugly over his powerful body. The beastkin warrior stepped forward with dignity. "My Lord," Veylor responded. Veylor was a close-range fighter whobined speed with impressive durability. Hisbat style was both agile and resilient, making him a formidable presence on the battlefield. He possessed the unique ability to hold his own in a fight, even when outnumbered, without needing immediate support. With his sharp instincts and fierce independence, Veylor was perfectly suited for leading from the front, where the chaos of battle was at its fiercest. His ability to withstand heavy assaults while delivering swift, decisive strikes made him a crucial asset to any offensive push. "You will lead the fifth team¡ªEclipse," As dered. A wave of apuse erupted as Veylor strode confidently toward the front, joining the other team leaders. One by one, the leaders of the other teams followed suit, gathering at the front alongside him. As addressed them all once more. "Zara for Aether, Kaida for ze, Garen for Cinder, Ronan for Dusk, and Veylor for Eclipse. Each team will consist of sixteen members, with roles carefully assigned for bnce and efficiency." As As finished speaking, the five team leaders stepped forward and bowed in unison toward him. "And¡­" As continued, drawing everyone''s attention back to him. "Each team will have its own supervision. However, to adjust our strategies, I''ll re-assign supervisors to work directly with each team leader. Aether will remain under Milo''s guidance. ze will continue with Lyrassa. Cinder will be supervised by Baldric. Dusk will work with Mira. And Eclipse will be under Karian''s supervision." Huh? A collective murmur rippled through the crowd when Mira''s name was mentioned. Severalbatants exchanged nces, clearly surprised by the unexpected pairing. Even Mira herself blinked in shock, her mouth slightly open in disbelief. Then, as the moment sank in, she let out a soft giggle, quicklyposing herself. With a cheerful bounce in her step, she made her way toward Ronan, falling into line alongside the other supervisors. As continued, his tone calm and steady. "Edrik will have more responsibilities, acting as my bridge to coordinate with all of you. Meanwhile, Master Kurogasa will be focusing on scouting tasks to keep us informed of any potential threats." He paused for a moment, ncing toward the group. No one dared to ask what Morganna''s role would be. She wasn''t even standing among them. Instead, she sat leisurely near the camp''s cooking area, already enjoying a freshly roasted piece of fish. Even when things got serious, she found a way to operate on her own terms. But more than that, it had been the right choice. As felt a deep sense of satisfaction watching his team grow stronger and more coordinated with each passing day. Their progress was tangible, and now all that remained was to recruit more troops toplete his ranks. Once all the preparations were finalized, the teams dispersed, each group setting out toplete their assigned hunting missions. With everyone busy, As made his way toward Morganna, who was still leisurely munching on her fish. She nced up at himzily as he approached. "I''m heading out toplete my quest. You''ll stay here with the workers?" Morganna gave a small shrug, biting into her food. Before he could say more, a loud ng rang out from the cooking area. One of the female cooks had dropped a pot onto the ground. As turned his head toward the sound. "Are you alright?" The female cook quickly bowed, flustered as she scrambled to pick up the fallen pot. "I-I''m fine, My Lord. Forgive me, I didn''t mean to drop it." As chuckled softly. "It''s alright. Just be careful." The girl nodded quickly, her face flushed with embarrassment. As turned back to Morganna. "Bye." "I''ll catch up..." she said. As nced back at her. "Sure," he replied with before turning away. Chapter 118 - The Razor Winds Ride As was still struggling to steady himself on the rugged terrain, battered by the wild, relentless wind. Each powerful gust threatened to throw him off bnce, and one wrong step could send him tumbling into the abyss below. But now, he faced a new challenge¡ªone with talons, razor-sharp feathers, and wings that carved through the air like des. A monster bird! The dewing Ravager. And it wasn''t just any ordinary beast¡ªthis monster was level 75. The creature circled him, its massive wings cutting through the air, adding to the chaotic winds around him. As remained rooted to one spot, his eyes locked on the bird''s movements, waiting for its next move. Suddenly, a powerful gust mmed into him from the side, making him stagger. And then¡ªhis instincts screamed. Behind! The bird was diving toward him from behind. [Elite - Tempest Guard (Conditional Passive Skill) Lv. 8 activated.] As snapped into a defensive stance, gripping his spear tightly as the bird closed in. [Elite - Thunderpierce Thrust (Active Skill) Lv. 7 activated.] With precision, he thrust his spear forward, aiming directly for the creature''s neck as it barreled toward him. The spear shot out, its tip crackling with lightning. But the bird was faster than expected. It beat its massive wings with a brutal force, sending a shockwave that knocked As backward before his spear couldnd the hit. DAMN IT! As''s body was flung through the air, tumbling backward, weightless in the wind''s grip. If he didn''t hit solid ground soon, he''d be thrown off the mountain entirely. He had the Mountain Leaper Bands to reduce fall damage, sure¡ªbut that wasn''t the issue. Because the bird was already diving again. With terrifying speed, it closed the gap, its sharp talons stretched out, aiming straight for him. As swung his spear to block the iing attack. The bird''s wstched onto the spear, locking it in a death grip. And then it took off, dragging As into the sky. The sheer force of the bird''s ascent hit As like a battering ram. His grip on the spear tightened as his body jerked violently, flung around in the air like a rag doll. The wind tore at him from all directions, but he refused to let go. No way I''m losing this spear! As clenched his jaw, his arms straining as the bird carried him higher and higher, the mountain shrinking below. His body twisted and iled with each beat of the bird''s wings, but his hands remained locked on the spear. At the peak of their ascent, the bird suddenly stopped pping its massive wings, hovering eerily for a moment before letting out a piercing screech. COAAAKKK!!! Without warning, the monster dove straight down. WOOOO AAA WOOO AAH! As clenched his teeth as the sudden drop yanked him downward, the brutal wind mming into his face. His mouth opened wide as if to scream, but the wind practically shoved the air back down his throat. His vision blurred from the speed, and for a moment, he felt like his stomach was going to rip itself out of his body. Then, just as suddenly as it started, the bird stopped mid-air, jerking to a halt like a roller coaster reaching its peak. As''s body lurched forward¡ªand that''s when it happened. The bird released its grip on the spear. He gritted his teeth harder, realizing the damn bird wasn''t just trying to kill him¡ªit was toying with him. It''sughing at me! [Elite - Thunderpierce Thrust (Active Skill) Lv. 7 activated.]@@novelbin@@ As''s body shot forward, propelled by the force of his spear. He twisted mid-air, aiming straight for the bird. COAAAKKK!!! The dewing Ravager screeched again, this time in surprise, as the spear struck it directly. As didn''t stop there. He maneuvered himself, flipping through the air until hended squarely on the bird''s back. Gripping the spear tightly, he drove it into the base of the monster''s neck, yanking the bird''s head backward with all his strength. "Let''s see if you like this ride!" he shouted, holding on as the bird thrashed in the air, its wings iling wildly. Another freefall! As felt the rush of wind again as the bird plummeted toward the ground. His stomach twisted, but he held firm, refusing to let go of the spear as the creature struggled beneath him. This time, I''m not the one being thrown around. As adjusted his grip on the bird''s neck, tightening the hold of his spear. The massive creature screeched in frustration and began to maneuver wildly through the air, pping its razor-sharp wings in desperate attempts to throw him off. It darted up, then plunged down, twisting and turning in rapid dives and climbs. But As held on. His hands clenched the bird''s neck with unrelenting strength, and his legs wrapped tightly around its body. The wind howled in his ears, but he refused to be shaken loose. The bird thrashed even harder, trying to shake him off, but every sudden movement only caused the spear lodged in its neck to press deeper. You''re only hurting yourself, idiot. Finally, the creature altered its movement. With a powerful beat of its wings, it steadied itself mid-air, the chaotic thrashinging to an abrupt halt. As loosened his grip slightly, pulling the spear free and storing it back in his inventory. Now, he held on only with his hands, leaning into the bird''s back to reduce the wind resistance. The monster flew on without further resistance, its massive wings cutting through the air with smooth, powerful strokes. As smirked to himself. Did I¡­ just tame this thing? The thought made him chuckle. A bird tamer? Seriously? Still, he couldn''t help but marvel at the sight in front of him. The wind rushed past his face as the vastndscape stretched endlessly below. Flying on the back of a monster bird, soaring freely through the skies¡­ Not bad. Not bad at all. The bird soared through the skies, picking up speed with each powerful beat of its wings. Several times, they flew past other monster birds circling nearby. Those creatures turned their glowing eyes toward As, as if silently saying, "Is that food?" As kept his focus, guiding the creature with subtle tugs on its neck. Each time he adjusted his grip or leaned slightly, the bird responded, veering left or right in smooth arcs. It was only then that the realization hit him. I''m¡­ riding a bird. A monster bird. He nced around at the breathtaking view of the floating inds beneath him, the endless sky stretching in all directions. For a brief moment, a smirk formed on his lips. But then a thought crossed his mind. Wait¡­ where the fuck is Kurogasa? Before he could dwell on it, another bird appeared from his left, flying smoothly alongside him. Damn. DAMN IT! Sitting calmly atop the bird was none other than Kurogasa. The ninja rat bnced effortlessly, perched on the bird''s back with his legs crossed. His left hand held a chain wrapped around the bird''s neck, while his right hand casually waved toward As before he bowed slightly in respect. As couldn''t help but grin at the absurd difference between their positions. While Kurogasa sat gracefully, As clung to his bird with both arms and legs wrapped tightly around it, holding on for dear life as if he might be flung off at any second. Kurogasa pointed toward the spot where they had begun their training. As nodded, shifting his weight to turn the bird''s head. To his surprise, the creature obeyed without resistance, banking gently toward the direction Kurogasa indicated. "Heh¡­ maybe I really am a bird tamer now," As muttered to himself. Continue your story on My Virtual Library Empire Can I bring this bird home? The thought lingered in his mind as the bird swooped lower toward the mountain''s peak. He reached into his inventory and pulled out a monocr¡ªa copsible scouting tool he often used to scanrge areas from a distance. Holding it to his eye, he began surveying the ind below. Off to one side, he spotted small dots moving in formation. As he focused the lens, he realized it was a group of troops, training in martial arts. There were dozens of them. "That must be one of the Lord''s troops Kurogasa mentioned earlier," he muttered. Shifting his view, he noticed several figures on small advanced boats, fishing in the middle of theke. The sight made him pause for a moment. "I really need to buy a boat for our own use." The bird flew gracefully toward the mountain''s peak, where As had begun his training. The fierce wind was still present, but strangely, it didn''t feel as punishing as before. As the bird neared the ground, As prepared to jump off. He slid from the creature''s back¡ªbut the wind caught him mid-air, throwing him sideways. Reacting quickly, As spun his spear into position and stabbed it into the rocky ground, halting his fall and steadying himself. Meanwhile, Kurogasa dismounted with ease. He threw his chain de, which embedded itself in the ground, allowing him to descend smoothly without issue. The two birds let out deafening screeches as they pped their wings, rising back into the sky. As cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted after them, though his voice was quickly swallowed by the wind. "Hey bird! Come backter!" Of course, there was no sign the birds heard him. As smirked as he straightened up, wiping dust off his clothes. Suddenly, Kurogasa took a step forward, turning his back to As as if shielding him. "We havepany, My Lord," Kurogasa said calmly. As followed Kurogasa''s gaze. From the rocky path ahead, three figures emerged, their heavy armor gleaming under the harsh sunlight. Their weapons nking softly against their ted armor. As narrowed his eyes. Even from this distance, he could sense the weight of their presence. These weren''t ordinarybatants. "They''re Rank-2 Lords," Kurogasa said. Chapter 121 - The Eye of the Storm An endless struggle to grow stronger¡ªthat was what this journey had be. As pushed forward, each step feeling heavier as he fought against the raging storm. The wind howled like a beast, savage and unforgiving, tearing at his body with fury. But it wasn''t just the wind anymore. The storm had fullye alive¡ªa torrent of rain mixed with blinding shes of lightning, each strike crashing into the ground with devastating power. "Hell, please." He gritted his teeth, trying to push through the chaos. "I have a high affinity with Water. And I''m used to Lightning. This should be easy for me!" But fate didn''t seem to care. A blinding bolt of lightning struck the ground beside him. The sheer force of it sent him flying through the air, mming his body into a cluster of jagged rocks. His back hit the stone hard, but he grit his teeth through the pain, forcing himself back to his feet. As steadied himself, his hands gripping the earth beneath him as he found his footing again. His gaze locked on the storm raging around him¡ªthis was his chance. The perfect opportunity to push himself beyond his limits, to elerate his progress andplete the quest. No backing down. No second-guessing! He''d faced worse. He''d endured relentless waves, storms of energy, brutalbat training. This wasn''t new to him! As spun his spear. The crackling energy in the air began to respond, elemental particles weaving into his body, wrapping him in a thin current of golden lightning. "Run," he told himself, gripping his spear tighter. "Just run!" He pushed forward, his pace quickening despite the storm''s brutal force and the asional need to steady himself when a lightning strike crashed dangerously close. But then¡ªa familiar presence emerged at his side. It was Kurogasa. "I will apany you, My Lord," he said with a respectful bow. As grinned. "Let''s go!" The two of them ran side by side, charging through the heart of the storm. Even so, As couldn''t help but notice that Kurogasa was holding back, carefully matching his pace. This was no ordinary run, yet it wasn''t as brutal as his volcanic terrain training. Back then, he''d stumbled blindly through molten rocks, stripped of all his senses, relying on pure instinct to survive. Here, it was different. Here, he could use his awareness¡ªhis focus¡ªto navigate the chaos. The challenge wasn''t blindness. It was the storm itself. The relentless rain that battered his body, the violent wind that howled from every direction, and the crashing lightning that struck without warning. It wasn''t just physical endurance¡ªit demanded bnce, sharp instincts, and adaptability. And As? He was thriving.@@novelbin@@ With each step, he could feel it¡ªthe growth. His senses sharpened, his instincts heightened. The storm wasn''t a barrier to ovee. It was a gift. It forced him to stay grounded while chaos raged all around him. It pushed him to adapt, to read the wind''s movement, to predict its sudden shifts, and to adjust his path ordingly. Every strike of lightning, every gust of wind¡ªeach was another test, another push toward mastery. As wasn''t just surviving the storm. He was mastering it. Who knows what kind of terrain he would face in the future? What kind of enemies would stand in his way? This was the perfect chance to prepare. To test himself in the harshest conditions. To be the kind of warrior who could survive anything. As wasn''t just running to finish the training. He was chasing perfection. He intended to seize every challenge ahead¡ªand master it! As the days passed, As grew more confident with each step. His strides became steadier, his movements more fluid. He wasn''t just running through the storm anymore¡ªhe was bing one with it. He had learned to move with the wind, to anticipate the sudden gusts, to dodge the relentless strikes of lightning that crashed into the ground around him. And then there was the bird. The same monster bird that had attacked him before. It swooped down from the swirling skies, its enormous wings slicing through the storm as it circled above him. As nced up and grinned. Here we go again. The bird dived sharply toward him, talons stretched, but he dodged with ease, skidding to the side as lightning illuminated the sky. The interaction, strangely enough, felt¡­ fun. Was the bird toying with him? Testing him? Or perhaps, just maybe, it was ying with him. The bird twisted mid-air andunched another attack, this time from an unexpected angle. As spun his spear and deflected the strike with a precise parry, sending the creature spiraling off course. It stumbled for a moment, battered by the raging winds, but quickly righted itself and soared back into the stormy skies. Tough bird. He smirked, wiping the rain from his face. This one doesn''t give up easily. Every day, the bird returned. And every day, it seemed to bring friends. Other monster birds joined in, swooping and diving as they took turns attacking him. Yet, the more they came, the more he grew to enjoy the challenge. It was like a game. And he loved it. Continue reading at My Virtual Library Empire Heughed out loud as he dodged another attack, his voice carried away by the wind. The storm, the birds, the lightning¡ªit all felt like a chaotic dance. A dance he was getting better at with each passing day. The monster bird screeched in frustration after missing another attack. As twirled his spear, still grinning. "You''ll have to do better than that!" he shouted through the storm. Eventually, after one final sh, Asnded a solid blow on the bird''s side. The creature screeched, pping its massive wings to gain altitude, retreating into the sky. "Come back tomorrow, yeah?" Until finally, on the tenth day, the notification he had been longing for appeared atst! [Congrattions, As!] [You have sessfullypleted the second quest: "The Eye of the Storm."] [You navigated the fierce winds and lightning hazards of the storm-filled path, demonstrating your ability to adapt and endure through elemental challenges.] [You have further developed your synergy with lightning, enhancing your mobility and flow in battle. Your mastery over stormy conditions has improved stamina recovery and movement speed during prolonged engagements.] [You have received 50,000 EXP awarded.] [New Skill Unlocked: Epic - Lightning Step (Active Skill)] [Description: Dashes forward using lightning energy, leaving a crackling trail that damages and slows enemies.] [Effect: Deals 80% damage to enemies in the path. Slows enemies by 20% for 3 seconds] [New Skill Unlocked: Epic - Tidecaller''s Flow (Passive Skill)] [Description: Water and lightning abilities flow naturally, improving stamina recovery and movement speed when fighting in stormy or wet conditions. [Effect: Stamina Recovery: Increases stamina regeneration by 15% in stormy or water-filled environments. Movement Speed: Increases movement speed by 10% when using water or lightning abilities.] [You have received the next quest.] [Third Quest: "Stormbinding Challenge"] As stood withbored breaths, his chest rising and falling heavily. The storm raged around him, but all he could focus on was the glowing notification before his eyes. Finally, he had earned the rewards for his grueling training. Two Epic-grade skills. At once. His lips curled into a grin as he lifted his gaze toward Kurogasa, who stood patiently nearby. Without wasting another second, As spun his spear, the familiar weightforting in his hands. Time to activate one of them. "Lightning Step," hemanded. Immediately, a surge of energy flooded his body. His heart pounded faster, his blood felt electrified, and his muscles practically hummed with power. In an instant, his entire body felt lighter¡ªfaster¡ªstronger. As stomped his foot against the rocky ground, and his body became a blur of motion, wrapped in crackling lightning. He shot forward like a streak of golden light, covering several meters in the blink of an eye. The wind howled in his ears, unable to keep up with his speed. When he finally came to a stop, he nced behind him, noticing the faint trail of crackling lightning left in his wake. It shimmered and sparked, fading slowly into the air. He chuckled softly, his excitement barely contained. The second skill was passive¡ªone that would activate on its own under the right conditions. He didn''t need to trigger it manually. "Congrattions, my Lord," Kurogasa said, stepping closer with a respectful bow. As nodded, spinning his spear again, a spark of lightning crackling along its shaft. "Let''s head back to camp. Let''s see how far the others havee." Kurogasa bowed again. As, unable to contain his excitement, activated Lightning Step once more. The sheer burst of speed filled him with exhration. He felt unstoppable. This wasn''t just a mobility skill. It was a weapon. With it, he could maneuver faster than most could react¡ªthe perfect tool for a close-range fighter like him. Positioning, closing gaps, dodging strikes¡ªhe could already imagine how it would change hisbat style. His arsenal was moreplete now. But he wasn''t done, yet. There was still one more quest waiting for him. One more challenge that would push him even further. And if hepleted it? He was certain he''d unlock something even more extraordinary. But even beyond that¡­ The Dominion Skirmish loomed ahead. Chapter 123 - Shattered Ember Awaits "We''ve been observing how you train," the man in heavy armor said as they sat on the camp chairs in an open area near theke''s edge. "And I must say, you have an extraordinary fighting spirit!" the man, who introduced himself as Kaelzar, continued with a firm voice. "I''m certain that someone like you would earn a special ce in our alliance¡ªif you keep showing this level of determination." As responded with a faint smile and a respectful bow of his head. "I truly appreciate thepliment. I''m honored." The discussion carried on, taking a more serious turn as Kaelzar started to outline his offer in greater detail. "I don''t know if you''ve decided on your target inds yet. But there''s one ind that will be highly contested in the next Dominion Skirmish. It''s a unique ind¡ªits environment can shift dramatically, and it''s filled with rare resources and monsters that drop valuable materials." As remained silent, his expression carefully neutral. Kaelzar continued. "If you agree to join us, even securing an ind like that would be a much easier task for you." As kept his gaze steady, showing no reaction, though his mind raced through the implications. This offer wasn''t as simple as it seemed. Kaelzar and his people had clearly studied As¡ªperhaps more thoroughly than he had anticipated. It was likely they had also predicted that he would target this particr ind in his ns. After all, given his recent string of victories, it would be easy to assume that a rookie lord, riding on confidence, would aim for a high-risk ind to prove his worth. If As epted their offer, it would appear as though they were graciously handing over the Dynamic Environment ind. But if he refused? The message beneath their words was painfully clear: they would cross paths on the battlefield. Even though As had never seriously considered joining them from the beginning, the man''s parting words carried an unmistakable weight. It wasn''t just a negotiation. It was both a challenge and a threat, delivered directly to him. As remained calm, hisposure unshaken. His gaze locked on the man before him. Would they meet on the battlefield? Would this threat make him back down and abandon his ns to fight for a rank-2 ind? If a threat like this was enough to make him hesitate, how could he ever hope to push himself to grow stronger in the future? After a brief pause, As bowed his head slightly before responding. "That is an extraordinary offer. I''m truly honored by it all, but with the utmost respect, I must say that I''m not ready tomit to any alliance at this time. Therefore, I''ll have to pass on this remarkable opportunity¡ªfor now." Kaelzar''s lips curved into a faint smile before he rose from his seat. As followed suit, standing to meet him. The man extended his hand for a handshake, and As epted it without hesitation. "Good luck," Kaelzar said before turning away, his twopanions following as they walked away. As stood still, watching them go.@@novelbin@@ Momentster, he turned and walked back toward the camp. Without wasting time, everyone began dismantling the camp, gathering their gear and supplies after ten grueling days of training on the ind. Once everything was packed, the teleportation pad was activated, and arge magic circle formed in the clearing. One by one, they stepped into the glowing runes and vanished from Celesthollow. From a distance, Kaelzar and hispanions watched silently as As and his team disappeared. "Why didn''t we just crush him right here?" one of the men growled. "That asshole rejected such an incredible offer. Do you think he''s already found a better deal?" "No," Kaelzar responded calmly. "I think he''s just drunk on his recent victories. He probably believes he can handle this battle alone." "Typical rookie mistake!" the man scoffed. "They never truly understand what these wars are about. They think luck will always be on their side!" Kaelzar''s lips curled into a faint smile. "Let''s see if we meet him in the next Dominion Skirmish. We''ll see how much he regrets turning down the offer we gave him." Silence fell between them as the sun dipped lower, and night began to settle over Celesthollow. Kaelzar tilted his head, his gaze following a flock of flying monsters passing overhead. His eyes narrowed at one in particr¡ªarge, bird-like creature. "That bird," he said quietly. "Kill it." ** The remaining days leading up to the Dominion Skirmish battle phase were fully dedicated by As and everyone in Gacha Haven to recovering their strength and ensuring their bodies were back in peak condition. They double-checked every piece of gear and meticulously prepared for whaty ahead. Every strategy, formation, and technical aspect of the uing battlefield was drilled into eachbatant. Everyone knew their role, their position, and the stakes. During this final preparation period, As also secured an additional 20batants from the Summoning Altar. With that, his forces now stood at 100batants, split into five squads, along with 20 workers to support their operations. On the very day the Dominion Skirmish was set to begin, As, his elite subordinates, and everybatant and worker gathered, fully dressed in their designated battle outfits. Their uniforms were designed specifically for this moment¡ªa strikingbination of dark tones ented with gold patterns, each outfit proudly disying the Gacha Haven emblem. They stood in perfectly organized ranks, weapons ready at their sides. Everyone was at their absolute best. Every wound had healed, every mind was sharp, and every soul was determined to give their all. The rigorous training over the past few weeks had paid off spectacrly. Many of them had already reached level 50 and achieved their ss advancements, marking a major milestone in their growth. Now, they weren''t just a collection of warriors. They were a force¡ªready to make their mark on the battlefield. Edrik gave a respectful bow toward As before stepping forward to face the gathered troops. "This battle is crucial," he began. "The oue will shape the rapid growth of our ind in the days ahead. We can''t afford to treat this lightly." He straightened his posture and continued. "We have three target inds in this Dominion Skirmish," Edrik continued, his tone steady but firm. "The first, a low to moderate risk ind, is Emerald de¡ªand covered in dense forests rich with resources and hidden dangers. Lyrassa and Mira will take the lead, supported by Team ze and Team Dusk." He paused briefly, letting the troops absorb the information. "The next ind," Edrik went on, "is Azure Dunes, a moderate to high-risk target. It''s a harsh desertndscape, with shifting sands and a massiveke at its center. This mission will be led by Milo and Karian,manding Team Aether and Team Eclipse." The troops nodded in unison, understanding the gravity of the missions assigned to each team. "And finally, the third and most high-risk ind¡ªShattered Ember Isle. A rank-2 ind with vtile terrain and deadly enemies." He took a step forward. "The assault on this ind will be led by an elite team: myself, Morganna, Master Kurogasa, Baldric, and, of course, Lord As. We''ll be supported by Team Cinder." Edrik continued, his voice calm but firm. "For the first week, our priority will be to secure key areas and resources on each ind," Edrik stated. "We will y it safe to assess the terrain, scout threats, and hunt for critical resources and materials we need." "After that, we will reassess and adjust our strategy based on the situation," he continued. "But make no mistake¡­" He paused for a moment. "Once we''ve gathered what we need, we will shift our focus to fortifying and dominating the ind that we choose to im. And that''s when the real battle begins." Experience new stories on My Virtual Library Empire He nced back at As briefly, then turned his attention to the troops once more. "This isn''t just about survival. It''s about domination. We''re not here to test the waters. We''re here to im what''s rightfully ours." Everyone''s gaze grew sharper after Edrik''s briefing. Then, As stepped forward. He summoned his Legendary-grade Wavebreaker Spear. The moment it materialized, his entire body became cloaked in a radiant aura of deep blue energy mixed with crackling gold lightning. A swirling current of water formed in the air, spiraling upward before bursting outward. In the midst of it, Zefyros appeared, his form manifesting with his signature roar. CRAAAKKK! As gripped the spear tightly. "We leave together, and we return together," As dered. "Never abandon yourrades. Never leave behind your brothers, your sisters, your team. We only win by standing united¡ªbybining the strength and will of everyone here." "FIRE!" Chapter 124 - Volcanic Ice Since there were three target inds to scout during the first week of the battle phase, As decided to delegate the Mission Commander role for the other two inds to Lyrassa and Karian. He himself would take the Mission Commander role for the third ind, which was the rank-2 ind¡ªthe most dangerous of the three. The Mission Commander is a critical position, granting the assigned leader ess to special features and skills. These include summoning reinforcements, retreating troops when necessary, and utilizing strategic abilities unique to each Lord. It wasn''t a role to be taken lightly. The Mission Commander''s decisions could mean the difference between victory and disaster. [The Dominion Skirmish Battle Phase Has Begun] [Objective: Secure and Dominate Target Inds] [Duration: 60 Days] In the end, each Lord would only be able to im one ind from the three they conquered by the end of the phase. The remaining inds would be awarded to those in second or third positions. Because of this, the distribution of resources and forces would y a crucial role. How each team divided their strength and executed their strategies would determine whether they could secure the best ind possible by the end of the battle phase. As stood at the head of the gathered forces, watching as eachmander and crew took their positions in perfectly formed lines. For the initial summoning, each rank-1 Lord could summon up to 50 personnel, with a cap of 100 personnel on the ind. Rank-2 Lords, meanwhile, could summon up to 75 personnel, with a cap of 150. This meant they couldn''t deploy their entire forces at once¡ªthey would need to summon more troops gradually as the battle progressed. At the front of her squad, Lyrassa stood with Mira at her side. Lyrassa took a step forward and bowed respectfully toward As. "My Lord," she said. "I will depart now and carry out our mission as nned."@@novelbin@@ As gave her a slow, approving nod. As soon as Lyrassa straightened, the gathered troops shouted in unison: "FIRE!" The sound echoed across the camp. The magic circles beneath Lyrassa''s team ignited. In a sh, Lyrassa, Mira, Team ze and Team Dusk disappeared. Their mission had begun. Next, it was Karian and Milo''s turn to depart. Karian stepped forward with a bright, enthusiastic grin. "My Lord, we''re heading out!" he announced boldly. "We will ughter our enemies, just as we nned." Beside him, Milo gave a firm nod. As watched them for a moment before offering a simple, steady response. "Good luck¡ªand take care of each other." Without missing a beat, the gathered troops shouted once more, "FIRE!" In an instant, magic circles ignited beneath Karian, Milo, Team Aether, and Team Eclipse. The symbols spun faster and faster until, with a blinding sh of light, they vanished into thin air. The second mission was now underway. Now, it was As''s turn to head toward the final ind¡ªthe rank-2 ind, Shattered Ember Isles. Read exclusive content at My Virtual Library Empire But before starting it, he took a moment to double-check his status. [Name: As ckthorn] [Level: 51] [Strength: 239 | Agility: 135 | Intelligence: 92 | Constitution: 136 | Stamina: 152] [Avable Stat Points: 10] [Job: The Lord] [ss: Tempest Warden] [Irond Will (S) - Tactical Awareness (A) - Instinctual Command (A) - Elemental Spear Mastery (S) - Elemental Dominion (S) - Commanding Presence (S) - Bloodbound Vigor (S)] Opening his personal interface, he quickly scanned through his stats. He had 10 unassigned stat points. Without hesitation, he allocated all of them to Intelligence¡ªhis lowest stat. He also took one final moment to review the list of skills he possessed and their current levels. He needed to ensure he was fully prepared for whaty ahead. [Elite - Flurry of Spears (Active) Lv. 4] Flurry of Spears, a skill he had obtained from the Skill Scroll, had now reached level 4. It was an excellent single-target offensive ability. [Epic - Bloodlink Command (Active) Lv. 2] [Elite - Duskbound Presence (Conditional Passive) Lv. 3] [Epic - Bloodrush (Active) Lv. 2] Bloodlink Command was one of the three skills he had gained from his bond with Morganna. It provided a team-wide buff that granted minor regeneration and lifesteal, useful for prolonged battles. Duskbound Presence, weakened the attack power of enemies in range while boosting the critical rate of himself. Bloodrush was a direct buff to speed and agility, giving him a burst of speed when needed. [Epic - Inferno Fortitude (Passive) Lv. 3] Inferno Fortitude, a passive skill he had acquired through his intense training in volcanic environments, boosted both his endurance and speed when fighting in such conditions. [Epic - Instinctive Elemental Sense (Passive)] Instinctive Elemental Sense was a passive skill that sharpened his awareness of elemental shifts in the environment¡ªa result of his training without relying on any of his senses. [Epic - Elemental Convergence (Active, Versatile)] [Epic - Lifebound Shield (Passive, Defensive)] [Epic - Elemental Markings (Verdant Shadow)] From his bond with Lyrassa, he had gained three more skills. Elemental Convergence allowed him to temporarily fuse two elements to create powerful, versatile attacks. Lifebound Shield, a passive defensive skill, formed a protective elemental shield around his body, absorbing damage. Finally, Elemental Markings was a unique mark on his back that boosted his elemental damage output and enhanced hisbat performance in shadowy areas. Next were the three skills he had gained after his intense training with the spear, fighting without senses and learning to rely solely on elemental particles in the environment. [Epic - Resonant Spear Field (Passive Skill) Lv. 2] [Epic - Elemental Spear Resonance (Passive Skill) Lv. 2] [Epic - Crystalline Spear Flow (Passive Skill) Lv. 2] Resonant Spear Field was a passive skill that created a resonant energy field duringbat, amplifying elemental effects in the area. Depending on the dominant element in the environment, it would provide subtle enhancements to his abilities. Elemental Spear Resonance was a passive skill that allowed him to channel elemental energy more efficiently through his spear. It enhanced critical damage and generated area damage whenever he sessfully performed a parry. Additionally, it provided a bonus to stamina regeneration. Crystalline Spear Flow was a powerful enhancement skill that infused his spear with water and ice elements. It boosted his damage output significantly and generated a protective shield around him, capable of absorbing a portion of iing attacks. [Elite - Thunderpierce Thrust (Active Skill) Lv. 7] [Elite - Tempest Guard (Conditional Passive Skill) Lv. 8] [Elite - Tempest Arc (Active Skill) Lv. 4] The next three skills came from merging abilities after As unlocked the Tempest Warden ss. Thunderpiece Thrust focused on single-target damage, Tempest Guard was a defensive skill, and Tempest Arc was an area-of-effect attack. [Epic - Spiral Tide (Active Skill) Lv. 1] [Epic - Lightning Step (Active Skill) Lv. 1] [Epic - Tidecaller''s Flow (Passive Skill) Lv. 1] The next three were his new skills from the Tempest Warden ss. Alright all set. With him stood his elite team: Morganna, Edrik, Kurogasa, Baldric, and the troops of Team Cinder. Their arrival point would be random, scattered across unknown locations on the targeted ind. There was no telling what they might encounter upon arrival¡ªmonsters, enemy forces, or the brutal environment itself. Whatever awaited them, they had to be ready. As addressed the entire group. "Cast all buffs and ready your weapons," hemanded. "This ind is most likely volcanic, so we should be familiar with the harsh conditions. But no matter what we face¡ªwe adapt." "FIRE!" The troops gave a unified shout, steeling themselves for whaty ahead. The magic circles expanded, and one by one, the entire team was consumed by the blinding light. The sensation was instant. The familiar pull of summoning magic tugged at their bodies, distorting time and space. The transition was quick, but the moment they felt the change in the air, something was off. The temperature wasn''t what they had expected. It wasn''t scorching hot. It was freezing cold! As opened his eyes, and his vision blurred for a moment before a blinding light pierced through the fog. His skin prickled from the frigid air, and when he adjusted to the brightness, his surroundings came into focus. Whaty before them wasn''t a sea of moltenva. It was a volcandscapepletely frozen over¡ªckened rock and jagged peaks covered inyers of glittering ice, with cracks of blue frost veins running through the ground. Steam hissed from the frozen earth, rising into the sky like ghostly tendrils. "This¡­ isn''t what we expected." "Stay alert," Edrik warned. Kurogasa stepped forward from the front of the formation, his chain de already in hand. "My Lord, we have guests," he said, his tone calm but with a hint of warning. Chapter 126 - A Step Away from Death "I smell a beast..." The words came from Feral, the Lord leading the group. He paused for a moment, lifting his head and sniffing the icy air, as though trying to pick up a scent on the wind. Then, without warning, he leapt down from the massive bear,nding on the snowy ground. A few of his men followed, struggling to move through the deep snow, before standing by their Lord''s side. "Has anyone passed through here recently?" "They''re likely not far from here," Feral said, sniffing the air once more. "I''m sure it''s some amateur group running scared after hearing we''reing," one of his men responded with a scoff. "But in weather this extreme, they couldn''t have gotten far, right? We can catch up to them and ughter them immediately." "They might have run or found a ce to hide," another said, ncing around the snow-covered terrain. "How?" someone else cut in. "How would they hide in a ce like this?" "Is it possible they have stealth skills?" Feral remained quiet for a moment, considering the possibility before responding. "Even if they do have stealth abilities, they would''ve run far by now. But if they''re hiding close by, it likely means their numbers are significant." A grin spread across his face. "That would make them a very interesting target." [As]: "Beast scent?" [Kurogasa]: "This Lord is a Beast Master, My Lord. He''s ustomed to monsters, including beastkin. His sense of smell is sharper than normal." [Edrik]: "As long as they don''t move closer to us, our position won''t bepromised." [Baldric]: "There are only twenty of them, fewer than us." [Edrik]: "True, but the troops aren''t used to an environment this cold. We need time to adjust. If we fight them now, we might win, but the chances of losing some of our own are high." [As]: "No, it''s fine. We stick to the original n. Scouting and assessing both the battlefield and the enemye first. Once we have a full understanding, then we''ll decide our next steps." [Edrik]: "Defeating an opposing Lord would certainly give us a big boost in Dominion Points, but yeah, I agree. Let''s wait for now and take no action." After several tense moments, the sheer stress of hiding in in sight began to wear on As and his troops. The cold crept into their bodies, numbing fingers and toes, as if they were freezing from the inside out. Despite the growing difort, they knew they had to stay perfectly still until the Lord and his group lost interest and left. "Let''s go..." Feral, the Lord, finally spoke. He leapt back onto his bear, and the others followed, climbing onto their mounts without hesitation. But one man remained. He lingered behind, eyes scanning the area, as if something didn''t sit right with him. His posture was tense, curiosity or suspicion keeping him from leaving with the rest of the group. Slowly, the man began to walk toward As and his team, each step crunching through the thick snow. Closer. Closer. Until he was standing directly in front of As. The tension was unbearable. One more step and he would walk straight into the stealth barrier, colliding with As himself. The man''s eyes narrowed, scanning the empty-looking area as if he sensed something was off. His gaze flickered left, then right, as the wind howled around them. Then, with a slight shake of his head, he turned around and walked back toward his mount. Explore new worlds at My Virtual Library Empire As remained motionless, his grip tightening on his spear, his breath slow and steady. Momentster, the group resumed their journey, the massive beasts trudging heavily through the snow and ice, theirrge, muscr bodies struggling to move across the harsh terrain. Even for creatures of their size and power, the environment seemed to weigh them down. As the sound of their footsteps faded into the distance, the freezing air grew eerily quiet again. As deactivated the stealth mode, and the shimmering veil that had concealed them faded away. As the cover lifted, several of the troops could be seen sitting in the snow, their bodies trembling as they clung to the thin line between giving up and pushing through. "Let''s go, youzy bastards!" Baldric''s booming voice broke through the silence. "Either you die in the snow, or you die while fighting our enemies! Ha ha!" The harshness of his words sparked defiance in the troops. They began to rise to their feet, shaking off the snow that clung to their clothes. Their eyes burned with determination, each of them silently fighting off the temptation to give in to the deadly cold that sought to sap their life away. "My Lord," Kurogasa stepped forward and gave a respectful bow toward As. "I will scout the area to find our direction." As nodded. The Mountain Leaper Band and the Mana Glider Cloak¡ªtwo items he had entrusted to Kurogasa¡ªgave him the ability to leap across difficult terrain and hover briefly in the air. These tools were perfect for navigating an environment where mobility was essential for survival. As''s system map only covered the immediate area surrounding their current location. The rest of the map remained fogged over, and it would only expand once someone physically explored the unknown regions. There was no need for As to do this himself. It was Kurogasa''s job to scout ahead. "Thank you. I''ll leave this task to you," As said firmly. Kurogasa gave a final nod before his body became cloaked in shadow. In the blink of an eye, he vanished¡ªnot disappearing into thin air, but leaping high into the storm, piercing through the howling blizzard. His silhouette was swallowed by the swirling snow, and soon, he was gone from sight. As watched the map in his system as it slowly began to uncover more of the area, revealing the terrain that Kurogasa was scouting ahead. "As," Edrik called out, stepping closer. "Yes?" As responded. "We move in the direction Kurogasa is heading." "Understood." Without hesitation, As raised his spear into the air, the blue and gold aura around it crackling faintly in the frigid air.@@novelbin@@ "We came here to fight. We came here to give everything we''ve got!" As shouted. "This isn''t the first time we''ve faced harsh conditions, and we''ve ovee them before. We''ll do it again!" "FIRE!" the troops roared back, their voices echoing through the blizzard. Despite the biting cold, they shouted from deep within their chests, fighting off the creeping numbness that sought to freeze their bodies. "Keep moving!" Asmanded. "Walking will keep our bodies warm. We move forward, no matter what." The group began marching through the snow, each step a battle against the whipping winds and blinding whitendscape. The snow was deep and heavy, almost threatening to swallow them whole, but they pressed on. The storm tried to push them back, but their will to survive and conquer was stronger. They moved forward. Almost everyone, including As, used their weapons to support themselves as they marched forward¡ªpushing through the numbness spreading through their bodies or clearing away the snow that threatened to swallow them whole. At the front of the group, Baldric, with his fire-wreathed body, led the way. His mes melted through the snow, creating a clear path behind him that made it easier for the rest of the troops to follow. After a while, a notification appeared on As''s system¡ªa message from Kurogasa. [Kurogasa]: "My Lord, I''ve found a suitable ce for us to take shelter." As opened his map and saw Kurogasa''s marker, indicating a high ground position not far from their current location. It was precisely the type of elevated area they had been aiming for. The spot wasn''t just a safe haven from the storm¡ªit was also a strategic vantage point. From there, they could observe the surrounding terrain and defend themselves more effectively against potential threats. As nodded to himself and spoke through the Mind-Link Projection. "We''re heading your way, Kurogasa. Hold your position." *** (Author''s Note:) Did you know you can ess free advanced chapters on my p4treon [dot]/gnteo It''spletely free to get started¡ªdon''t miss out on staying ahead in the story! Chapter 129 - Baldrics Warmth There were two main materials As was targeting on this ind: Chameleonite Ore and Soulthread Weave. Both were essential for crafting the Soulbinding Armor, a powerful piece of equipment Baldric could forge to significantly boost defensive capabilities. As''s vision was to collect enough materials to craft this armor for everyone on his team, ensuring they were better protected for future battles. Chameleonite Ore was a rare mineral that could only be found on Dynamic Environment Inds like this one. This was why the ind held such immense value for As¡ªit was one of the few ces where this mineral could be mined. The second material, Soulthread Weave, was produced by spirit beasts resembling spiders or simr creatures. These beasts were rtivelymon in inds with harsh and unpredictable climates like this one, making it an ideal location to hunt for the weave. Although the goal of gathering these materials was ambitious, As knew it would take great effort and perseverance to achieve. But to him, the reward¡ªa fully armored and resilient team¡ªwas worth every challenge they faced. In addition to the Chameleonite Ore and Soulthread Weave, there was another valuable material that could be found in a frost environment like this: the Frost Core. The Frost Core was a crucial crafting material used to create armor and equipment that enhanced resistance to extreme cold temperatures. It was a highly sought-after resource for survival in brutal climates like the one they were currently enduring. Moreover, the Frost Core could also be used as an additional material in the crafting of the Soulbinding Armor, granting it a simr effect by boosting cold resistance alongside its already formidable defensive properties. Given the unrelenting cold of this ind, obtaining Frost Cores would be incredibly beneficial for As and his team, potentially turning their struggle against the environment into a manageable challenge. Shortly after Kurogasa reported his discovery, he described finding a cave system¡ªits entrance leading deep underground into a sprawling chamber filled with twisting pathways and open spaces. Inside, he encountered a colony of creatures known as Arachnyte Specters. The Arachnyte Specters were known for their versatile adaptability. They lived inrge, cooperative colonies, meaning any attempt to fight them would likely attract dozens, if not hundreds of them at once. Despite the daunting numbers, the rewards for facing these creatures were undeniable. The Soulthread Weave, a rare material essential for crafting Soulbinding Armor, was harvested directly from the webbing they produced. Additionally, defeating them often yielded Frost Cores, making them a high-value target for As and his team. If they wanted to make the most of their one-week timeframe¡ªto gather resources and train themselves to fight in such a brutal environment¡ªthey would have to take on this challenge. There was no other way to prepare for the greater battles thaty ahead. The day was quickly fading, and night was approaching. From Edrik''s experience, as well as the knowledge shared by others, it was clear that the storm would grow even fiercer after sundown. The blizzard, already brutal, would be an almost unbearable force during the night. The cave Kurogasa had scouted was still some distance away, and attempting to travel in such extreme conditions would be too risky. Therefore, As and his team decided to stay in the camp overnight and set out at first light. This night would mark their first real battle¡ªfighting against the extreme cold, testing their endurance in conditions that seemed designed to break their resolve. As couldn''t help but wonder about the other Lords. Even if they were Rank-2, could they endure this harsh environment? Or were they far better prepared, with supplies and equipment specifically designed for conditions like this? He dismissed the thought. What mattered now was his team''s survival and preparation. Meanwhile, Kurogasa remained in the field, continuing his scouting mission. The Ninja Rat''s adaptability and sheer resilience were astonishing, even for As. He was someone who could operate alone in unforgiving environments, moving through the frost-covered terrain like a shadow. Not surprising. Not at all. They knew Kurogasa wasn''t just anyone. His past battles, honed skills, and discipline made him a master of survival, especially in brutal conditions. While the team recovered at the camp, Kurogasa worked tirelessly, mapping the terrain and gathering crucial intel. By this point, he had already: Mapped nearly all the key zones in the area. Estimated the number of Lords and alliances fighting on the ind. And gathered information on potential enemy alliances, providing critical insight into the battlefield. This level of preparation was invaluable. Knowing their enemies'' positions, alliances, and objectives gave As and his team a strategic edge they couldn''t afford to lose. For now, their task was simple: Adjust to the environment, steel their minds, and prepare for the challenges ahead. They would need unshakable resolve to see their ns through to the end. Night fell. Dark. Utterly dark. The temperature plummeted drastically, far worse than during the day. The system disyed the current temperature: -58¡ãC (-72.4¡ãF). It was unforgivingly cold, the kind of temperature that could freeze exposed skin in seconds.@@novelbin@@ The normal tents were no longer sufficient to withstand such extreme conditions. The team had to retreat into the two Ethereal Tents that had been set up earlier. Although the tents werepact, their magic-infused materials provided much-needed instion, allowing the troops to endure the night. However,fort was out of the question. The space was too cramped, forcing them to either squeeze together tightly or sit upright to make room for everyone. Inside, voices murmured in the dark as the troops tried to keep their spirits up. Those who were skilled at lifting morale encouraged others to stay strong. They spoke of hope, offering words of support to fight off the creeping despair brought on by the bitter cold. Meanwhile, As, Morganna, Edrik, and Baldric stayed outside the tents. As sat close to Baldric, who radiated intense heat from his perpetually burning beard and hair. The mes flickered in the darkness, their warmth providing temporary relief from the frost that clung to As''s body. Every so often, Baldric would p As on the back, and the contact would ignite a brief wave of fire, melting the frost and ice forming on his armor and clothes. "Better, As? Ha! Ha! Ha!" Baldric roared, hisughter echoing through the frozen air. "Thanks," As replied, his voice steady, though his body visibly rxed from the warmth. As for Morganna? She sat calmly nearby, eating. She had been eating non-stop since the night began,pletely unaffected by the biting cold or the tension in the air. Suddenly, she broke the silence. "I wonder¡­ would ice cream still taste good in weather like this?" she mused, as if this were a casual camping trip and not a battle for survival. Continue reading on My Virtual Library Empire As turned to her, his tone unusually sharp. "No! Hell no! Terrible idea!" Morganna sighed. "Boring," she muttered, resuming her meal without furtherment. The night dragged on, the storm howling relentlessly, but the small exchanges of warmth¡ªboth literal and figurative¡ªkept them moving forward, one frigid hour at a time. In truth, sitting next to Baldric was far moreforting than As wanted to admit. The heat radiating from the dwarf gradually melted the frost clinging to his armor and clothes. Each time Baldricughed, his booming voice seemed to shake off the cold even further, the warmth spreading with his rumbling amusement. Even so, no one around him responded to his constant chatter. Edrik, seated nearby, only offered the asional t reply, his tone devoid of enthusiasm as the dwarf cksmith continued to make light-hearted remarks. Baldric, unfazed, keptughing. Eventually, As, weary from the day''s journey and the relentless cold, gave in. He leaned over, resting his head against Baldric''s broad, muscr arm, and drifted off to sleep. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!