《Lumia: Other World》


 1 Wake up

    "Where am I?"


    Mael Kael said as he sleeps in his bed. In his previous life, he is a trained killer of the police, trained to assassinate high profiled criminals and big syndicates. After destroying all syndicates, he then retired and will make a family with his girlfriend Jane. They are happily wed and on their honeymoon, they slept but then he realized that he can''t move after several minutes. He was killed in his sleep by his own wife.


    "Wake up darling"


    A sweet kind voice permeated his ear and then Mael opened his eyes. He saw two people that was holding his little hands in a very kind way.


    "Maybe it is mother and father", Mael said as he slept again.


    He was a boy born from the family of Erza Kael and Lord Melvin Kael. They lived in the Manor of Golden Valley. They have land given by the king and a mansion, vast lands, an estate, and a town to rule. The World he lived in was the World of Lumia inhabited by variety of creatures such as vicious monsters, humans, demi-humans, and beast mans.


    "Mama! Papa!", Mael shouted to them when he is one year old.


    "My child can talk!", Melvin said to Erza.


    "He is a genius!", Erza said to him.


    Time passed by, he was now already a four-year-old boy by this world''s time. He was taught by his mother Erza to read and write and well, he was a fast learner when he was still a trainee assassin. Well, of course, he learned to read and write in a terrifyingly fast degree. With all that concluded at the age of five, he was reading books about history, and random stuff like heroic stories of olds, monsters bibliography, kingdoms and races, and as well as the prophecy books. With all he learned, he is still running out of books to read.


    Mael approached his mom that was still sewing his dress, he grabbed the tip of her skirt and then pouted.


    "Mom, I''m running out of books to read. I''m gonna die of boredom with this", he said.


    "What? Did you finished them all?", she said, while shocked.


    "Okay, there were still books that you have to read. Let''s go to the library", she said to him.


    Mael and Erza walked to the library located beneath their house. It was a mini library that had a bookshelf. There''s a secret mechanism to open the underground library. Erza illuminated the room using the lights of lanterns. The books were filed on the bookshelves and there were many books that he haven''t read yet.


    She grabbed the books one by one and she piled them on her son''s hands.


    "The herbalist book¡ªOh here! Survival book. This one''s important! Basic magic, basic enchanting, and this one''s advanced! Alchemist book, crafting!, Job-classes of different races and their specialties", she said then Mael walked like a drunk, trying to balance all the books piled on his arms.


    After reading the kingdoms and races, as well as their job classes and specialties, he discovered everything about them.


    There were three factions of Lumians, first were the Humans which had three kingdoms: Farmas the Barbarian empire of barbarians, Dwight the Royal Kingdom of royals, and Skuld¡ªthe Death kingdom of necromancers and witches. Second were the demi-humans: the kingdom of Elves Riverdell, Dwarf kingdom Dwarven, and Hobbit kingdom Clockwerk. Last were the Beast-man faction: The Lycans called Fang kingdom, the Vampires called Blood kingdom, and Druids called the Grizzly Kingdom.


    Humans had three kingdoms and the Barbarians were the pinnacle of humanity''s warriors. They were known to be taller than most humans and had a body build of bulging muscles. Their class were barbarians and they were specialized on all melee weapons. The Dwights were the ones who have many job classes that was collected from many lineages and families. But they were inferior when it comes to resilience compared to barbarians. The Skulds were the united forces of witches and necromancers. They were once divided. But after the king of necromancers and the queen of witches had an affair, they wed. Thus, united their forces and established a kingdom.


    Next, were the demi humans: first were the Dwarves, they were the masters of crafts when it comes to blacksmithing weapons and armors. They were the most armed when it comes to their army. Second, were the elves. They have three clans specifically the high elves, whom were magicians; the night elves, which were rouges; and the wood elves, whom were rangers. Lastly, the hobbits, whom were called the mechanics due to their inventions of automatons that were powered by mana crystal. They had an army of automatons as well as battle suits that they were equipping when they go to battle.


    The last faction were the Beast-men: the first one is the vampires, called blood warriors; and the other was of the ancient clans of beast-men that can transform to bat-like beast named as draculas. Next, were the Lycans. Transforming to werewolves and possessing the ability to summon wolves that would attack for them. Last were the Druids. They had druid shamans and warriors that can transform to werebears.


    His mother even gave him books about job classes tutored in the academy of the Dwight Kingdom and their army. As you can see; in the job classes, the role of the combatant person that was used specifically for combat. For instance: the swordsman, ranger, knight, paladin, warrior, rogue, mage, priest, and fighter. He found out that he was capable of mastering it all, but the problem is the time to master it all. These kinds of job classes were only taught in the academy and the only things you can learn outside the academy were techniques. Yes. It was not a job class-dependent, but a matter of physical combat using only techniques of fighting: weapon techniques and unarmed techniques. It was not skill-based, because skills consumes mana and it is only a basic attack only using physical strength. Well, it was the time to ask for his father about his newfound info about techniques.


    Gathering info was a success.


    He approached his father and asked him kindly. As a previous assassin of criminals, it was important to know the info first before making the plan to attack. He learned it through his mistakes. He was making his greatest act and that is to make a dramatic scene for his plan to work. Because acting was one of his skills from his previous life.


    "Dad, may I ask you something?", he inquired as he approached him.


    "And what is it?", his father replied.


    "About this book called ''combat techniques'' that you wrote? Would you be pleased if your son was excited to learn your own fighting style?", he asked his father.


    "No, son. It''s still too early for you to learn it. I mean¨C you''re still five years old! You still need to read lots of books as you can. Then when you''re six¨C well, we can start with swords, then spear and so forth. But for the meantime, just read well. Okay?", he explained to him.


    "If my age was the problem, well I can manage myself to dodge a bullet if forced to in my previous life. That''s not it. The problem was my body", he said in his own self.


    "Are you certain that your skills were really strong? Or you''re just ashamed to show off of your skills to me?", he said as he handed the book to him, winked his left eye to him.


    His father was moved and his pride is touched by an ignorant child. So he showed his techniques to him. His father lined up all the equipment that will be used like making a drill.


    First, he demonstrated his swordsmanship. With all his focus, he slashed a combo of left and right diagonal slash then turned and slashed in a wide arch. That is called a sword technique, a technique on handling a sword on engaging combat.


    Mael clapped his hands, but he had a thought in his mind that he will be a good sparring partner.


    "Next", Mael said.


    Next was the spear technique. The father swung his spear, turned and trusts it to the air. Then he pointed his spear making a clockwise motion, rapidly trusts by five times. Mael clapped then said "next".


    Then his father showed him the bow and crossbow technique. He loaded three arrows to the bow and fired it all to the target points. Reloading it with three arrows in his hands, he fired it one after another, hitting all the marks. He then grabbed the crossbow reloaded it instantaneously rolled over and fired it to the mark. Then after, he dashed sideways as he released the bolt from the crossbow. He reloaded it again, then dashed backwards. He did a backflip, while releasing it in mid-air. All marks were hit. With no dull moment, he reloaded and fired it towards the two hundred meters distance target hitting near the middle of the bullseye.


    Mael is impressed then said, "next".


    The next one was dagger technique, his father slashed furiously all over the dummy. He made some distance then eventually throws it to its head. He grabbed it then he twisted the dagger sideways as he draws the dagger that ripped its face. He distanced himself, then he dashed and thrust the dagger on its belly. Then drawing the dagger from the belly in a gut ripping manner.


    Mael said "bravo", while clapping his hands.


    Next is two-handed techniques, his father lifted two-handed hammers and slammed it vertically to the dummy and all the dirt is flown over then slammed it to the other dummy sideways then it is flown through the distance. Only leaving barely recognizable dummy afterward.


    "Next", said Mael.


    Lastly, it was the unarmed techniques. He began striking the hands of the dummy with rotating hands. Suddenly, he was striking faster and defending at the same time. Then for the final act, he made a one-inch punch that made the dummy blown by the force.


    "That''s all. Aren''t you impressed?", his father said as he is covered in sweat.


    "Well, it caught my attention and I''ve stored it well on my memory. Might also learn it as fast as possible", he said while taking the book from his father and left afterwards.


    His father let out a sigh as he watched all the mess on their training grounds. Disappointed for not even thanking him.


    Meanwhile, Mael discovered the so-called techniques. He also discovered the leveling up of character stats by using a window card and your job class is leveling also. Your performance can be enhanced by the stat points that you will receive when leveling up after killing monsters. The character stats were based on strength, dexterity, vitality, and focus. All had the so-called " character sheet" and the "Job class sheet". His mother and father have all of those. Specifically, they have a Job class. But they didn''t tell him which is which.


    These needs further investigation. But he was still a five-year-old kid that has limited knowledge and understanding of this world. Besides, what was the reason he was reincarnated here? He wondered.

 2 Coming of age

    Mael discovered that this world was like a fantasy world with swords and magic. Considering the fact that he was a reincarnated person from the earth, he needs it to be kept secret from others. His own life was not his own and he will use everything to protect his precious loved ones.


    He was trained by his father on using techniques and he constantly reads every book that he found interesting. He also discovered mana from the book of "mana cultivation". He first focused and felt faint energy in his body. Then circulated it within his core and trained his focus for hours. If he estimates it, his focus increased by one in several hours.


    He continued his training in techniques, reading books, and mana cultivation throughout the years until he became twelve years old.


    He trained and trained for years. At last, his hard work paid off. He will turn thirteen and the coming of age ceremony was at hand. He has to beat his father in terms of techniques, while his mother will serve as the jury. His mother will also judge on his practical application of the information from the books he read and as well as his focus on mana cultivation while fighting his father.


    The days went by, he became thirteen. t


    Thus, the day of coming of age has arrived.


    His father stood at the center of weapons and Mael on the other side, while the judge is standing in the middle.


    "Okay, the first one is the weapon category and the second one is the unarmed category. You will fight but not till death. Be careful not to cause a permanent injury on your opponent. The weapons were lined up and you will be judged by your performance on each weapon. For the first category, you will use weapons. Scores will be evaluated and the person with the highest overall score is the winner. The second round is the unarmed category by duel and force evaluation. That''s all for the rules. Now, get into your positions and ready your weapons", His mother said as she tightened her headband.


    Mael and his father got into their own positions, then picked up the sword.


    "In this sword technique, you have to make as much damage as you can to the training dummy with your training sword in ten seconds, the time starts now!", she shouted as she blows the horn.


    Tooooooottttttttt!


    Mael and his father smashed the dummies with all their might. Both parties were on fire.


    Tak! tak! tak!


    Mael hits it harder and faster, but his father had no intentions of loosing to him. The training dummy of Melvin is getting crumpled, while Mael is still not yet as damaged as his father.


    "Three! Two! One! Time''s up", Erza called out then blows the horn.


    Tooootttttttttttt!!!


    Mael was disappointed at the result and moved on to the next weapon.


    He grabbed the spear and his father did also. They will compete by making a hole on the big trunk of wood using their spear. The first one to complete the task is the winner. They lined up and faced the wooden trunk and then on Erza''s signal, they thrusted the pole rapidly.


    In just two seconds, Mael thrusted it twenty times. But his father is also coping up with him. In five seconds, he is halfway through the trunk. On the other hand, his father changed his strategy. His consecutive thrusts changed from fast and light thrusts to mediocre and heavy.


    His father was changing his tactics and it proves to be effective. When he was about to finish, he paused and concentrated his attack for the last hit; then pierce it with all his might.


    "Haaaaaaaaaaaahhh!"


    They both shouted, while Mael was rapidly piercing. Melvin released his thrust to the trunk.


    In the last moments, they both pierced it with all they got and bang! They both pierced it at the same time.


    "Who''s first?", asked Melvin.


    "Well both of you was the first, and there''s no winner and loser. It means it''s a tie", said Erza.


    "Huh? what? no, I''m the first one!", said Mael to her.


    "Hey old man, I will defeat you this time around", Mael said as he grabbed the bow.


    "Tsk! You''re still a green leaf child, who did not know the vastness of Lumia. There are greater persons than me, better remember that", said Melvin as he winked at him.


    He grabbed the bow and moved to the shooting range.


    "For this contest, you have to take turns in firing three arrows. If you''ve hit the bullseye then no score. If not then minus points. All you have to do is to fire three arrows for the separate target on the first set. Then on the second set is you have to fire three consecutive shots to different targets while evading your opponent''s shot at you. You have three seconds to fire and when you are hit by the opponent. Well, game over. Understood?", said Erza.


    Everyone fell silent then both Melvin and Mael exclaimed.


    "Huh? Do we have to dodge while firing? Are you kidding me?", both said by the contestants while their jaws dropped wide.


    "Well, everything''s gonna be fine. We will only use blunt arrows this time. Nyehehehe!", said Erza as she imagined the outcome.


    Mael was the first one to shot at the target and his father was the one who will fire at him.


    "Good luck, Boy!", his father said as he salutes at him.


    Melvin was standing on the top of one of the tree trunks where the target was located and Mael stands on the opposite side where he will be firing.


    "Contestants get ready! In my signal! Fire!", she said as she dropped her miniature flag.


    Mael grabbed three arrows from his quiver and loaded each one between his four fingers. He prepared to aim but his father released three consecutive shots, aiming at him. He dashed sideways, then released the arrows.


    Tok! tok! tok!


    "Two bullseyes and one middle ring, you have minus one points, get ready for set two", she instructed.


    Mael braced his self then Erza said, " On my signal! Set two begin!", she said then dropped the flag second time around.


    Mael reloaded again, but this time his father rained the blunt arrows like a shower barrage. Making him have no openings for the release of his arrows. His father was predicting where he will dodge and released where he will go.


    He was dodging in just hair''s breadth, planning on taking a drive through the barrage of arrows. He jumped forwards and released three consecutive shots, while deflecting the blunt arrows with his bow.


    Released one, then deflecting one. Released, then deflect. On the third shot, he released a little bit earlier, because of nearly being hit after deflecting.


    Tak! tak! tak!


    "One middle ring, one bullseye and, one outer ring. All hitting but two miss, so minus two", she said as she concludes the second set.


    Next was his father''s turn, Mael wants to make sure that he will get his revenge on his father. As he stood at the trunk, he equipped his blunt arrows.


    When he was at the top, he aimed at his father with focus. Formulating the possibility of where his father will dash. He simulated realistic events of the possible outcome.


    First was to release the first one, then depending on the direction on where he will go. He will release in a few steps of distance in advance.


    All of this was just a possibility and had a fifty percent chance. It''s just whether he will just stand there and deflect while firing or he will move and deflect then fires.


    He draws the bow with great force. Then on the signal, he fired it in his direction. In split seconds, his father fires it then blocked the incoming arrow using his bow.


    In his dismay, he fired three arrows in one shot in rapid succession but his father''s arrow reached the target point.


    "Three bull''s eyes! Prepare for the set two", said Erza


    Melvin winked Mael, then it resulted for him to be irritated. He draws again the three arrows then planned on rapidly firing it to his father. But his father was so fast in reloading and firing, in which he will be firing it and at the same time defending your first release of the arrow.


    "In my signal, go!", she said as she dropped the flag


    Mael fired the three arrows, while aiming at three different directions. One aimed at his feet, another on his bow and on his face. He released the two but left the last one. It was blocked by him, but when he defended his face. Mael instantly reloaded it and fired at his feet. He defended the two arrows, but the last arrow got buried on his foot.


    "Strike! You''re out Melvin!", said Erza, while signaling that Mael won over his father.


    "Yeah! First win!", he said as he jumped from the wooden trunk.


    "Ok, ok. You have a tie for your scores and you better be prepared for the next battle. Up next is the crossbow technique", said Erza.


    Mael grabbed the crossbow and loaded it and his father also readied himself. They moved to an assault grounds and they will hunt each other, with the walls, doors and, obstacles like they will play hide and seek. It will be a perfect place for Mael to hunt his enemy and put the skills of his past self into good use. They will play one on one using blunt bolts and have to strike first for you to win.


    Mael was on the opposite side and Melvin on the other side. Mael entered the maze-like obstacles and scanned the surrounding area while listening to the sound. His steps were silent and he takes a peak every time he is seeing every corner. He peaked then moved forward, everything was silent until he heard footsteps nearing on the other side of the corner. They were near with each other. Mael can still hide in the dark side of the container or crouch and aim at him while taking cover in the container. He throws a stone in the other room, then he prepared for his strike.


    He then chooses to aim, while taking cover. When Melvin appeared in the corner, he pulled the trigger. Melvin was taken by surprise and was struck in the chest.


    Mael was entitled as the winner and his father was surprised by the result.


    "You are the winner!", said his mother while hiding in the dark.


    "Next, set is in the sniper range", She said as she disappeared.


    They walked to the sniper range where they will snipe using the crossbow they held. They arrived at the sniper range and then prepared themselves. They will fire from where they stand and then snipe the two hundred meters distance target dummy. They will fire three times and the headshot is three points, the chest is two points and, hitting it wherever is one point.


    Mael and Melvin will fire at the same time when the time starts.


    "On my mark! Fire!", said Erza.


    Chuck!


    "Reload! Reload!", said Erza.


    Mael reloads, but his father was faster. You would need some decent pulling strength for your reload to be faster when reloading the crossbow.


    Mael successfully reloads then they fired again and again.


    Erza took her telescope then said the results.


    Mael got three headshots and his father also. With that Mael got the bow contest than a 1-draw on the crossbow.


    "That means the Winner on bow and crossbow technique is Mael!", she said.


    "Next, the two-handed technique where you will be competing. Let''s go to the weights area and prepare your strength", said Erza.


    As they arrived, Erza instructed them to grab the two-handed hammer and swing it to the large iron pole that measures your damage by the vibration it will produce.


    Mael comes first and lifted the hammer, with the signal of his mother, he swings it horizontally and then bang!


    The pole produced a vibration and Erza laughed.


    "You have a score often, but you will still get stronger as the time pass by", said his mother.


    His Father was next. He lifted the hammer then bang!


    Mael can feel the vibration from his skin and he distanced a bit because it was suffocating.


    "Twenty-nine, well that concludes our two-handed contest", she said as she announced the victory of Melvin.


    They moved on to the dagger contest, and he grabbed his dagger. They will be assassinating the clay dummy while making the greatest damage they can make to the target with three tries.


    Melvin comes first and dashed to the dummy then stabbed its heart while he twisted his body to pull the dagger. Slashing it sideways even when the dagger was still buried from the body of the dummy.


    "Eight points. Next attack!", she said.


    The wound from the dummy healed by itself and reverted to its original state.


    "Ready! Go!", she shouted.


    Melvin then dashed, throwing the dagger at the center of the abdomen then grabbed it while still on darting form then he sliced the belly. The left side of the dummy is ripped open.


    "Nine points! Next attack", she said.


    Melvin then braced, he tossed it to the neck and pulled the dagger. He twisted, then throws it to the back of its head.


    "Ten points! Mael, on my mark! Ready, go!", she shouted.


    Mael darted to the dummy, then he twisted and turned three times; while slashing the neck and the armpits.


    "Ten points! Next attack!", she shouted


    Mael darted again to the front and then he disappeared in front. Appearing at the back of the dummy, then stabbing its head.


    "Splendid! Another ten!", she said as she shouted.


    He darted then stabbed the heart, then slashed through the neck. All way up to its head leaving it its face open. He backflipped after he finished his attack.


    "Wonderful! Ten!!!!" she shouted with all her might.


    "You win!", she added.


    The next was the unarmed techniques, with the first round as a one on one duel and next is the force evaluation.


    "Get ready for the duel, the rules are by hit based, a single hit is one point, the counter is two points, and knocked down is a hundred points", she gave them the instructions and commanded them to get ready in the stage.


    Mael is on the opposite side and he removed his shirt, his father is also topless and their bodies are all well-formed. They will have a short match that will last for one minute and the one who is knocked down first will be the loser if no one is knocked down then the one who has many points is the winner.


    "Get ready! fight with your dignity on the line and fight fair and square. Your force aura will be evaluated by me right after the fight. Position yourselves and in three, two, one. Fight!", she shouted then ringed the bell.


    Mael darted without hesitation and strikes with his punch but countered by his father with a hook punch in his side.


    Huk!


    Mael staggered because his force aura is in another level, even when Melvin''s hook will not land but only an inch distance from his body, his strike''s shock wave will still be landing and if you''re hit, it is enough to blow you away.


    Mael was struck and the pain is hindering him from breath. Even Mael is stepping back a few times, his father is not even making him have time to breathe and even made some combos and he managed to block all his father''s strikes but still has his force applied.


    The shockwave was producing banging sounds and Mael is cornered in the stage. He is just defending, never mind to leave openings. With him cornered, he has no choice but to counter his father''s strikes.


    The unarmed technique has three fundamentals: it is the offensive, defensive, and, the aura. The offensive is to attack and counter, Defensive is to block, disarm and, deflect and, the Aura which is the force gathering, and body enhancement.


    His father was attacking and Mael''s patience was on the limit. He was secretly gathering force to counter his father. With the right timing, his father punched him with force applied and he deflects it with his right hand then punched his abdomen with all his gathered force.


    Bang!


    "Nguk!", his father gasped as he is thrown to the edge of the stage.


    "Knockdown!", shouted his mother


    His father stands up but collapsed after. Mael helped him to stand up then his father said, "Congrats son, you''re a big boy now that is strong enough to beat me. Well, I''m going on a journey and leave Golden Valley to your hands in the meantime. Huk!".


    "Don''t talk yet, dad. you''re not yet recovered and we have plenty of time to discuss that", said Mael.


    Later that night, his mother made a celebration in the Manor estate of the successful coming of age of her son Mael, his father rested that night because he is recuperating. They prepared the gardens located at the back of their mansion and made it the location of the ceremony.


    They arranged the tables, putting on table cloths and then the lamps and candles to it, as well as floating lanterns in the surroundings. The guards positioned on every corner and all is set up. The night came and the visitors are coming one by one.


    Mael has shown himself with a formal dress and appeared himself to the crowd. It as a tuxedo and black slacks at the bottom. The guests are amazed by his handsomeness, he is not the type of person who is handsome or cute but right in the middle. Mael was famous in the Golden Valley due to his kindness and down to earth humility¨Cespecially to the girls. After his appearance, there came young girls that are charging towards him.


    They wore gowns colored red, blue, and yellow. The yellow gowned were cute and she has a yellow hair. The red gowned were beautiful and has red hair. The blue gowned has blue curly hair. The one in the sparkling yellow gown spoke first.


    "Hello, young master! Congrats! I have a gift for you and I hope you will like it", she handed him a gift box.


    "By the way, I''m Nesty", she said as she winked in the left eye.


    The bright red gowned girl broke their conversation and said, "I''m Elizabeth, Beth for short. I had this chocolate made by myself, hope you like it", she smiled dearly and then about-faced, she giggled a bit after and then she faced him again.


    The royal blue gowned girl was holding a letter and gave it to him, he grabbed it and smiled.


    "I will read it at bedtime, I will treasure this letter and hide it", he said then he smiled at her cutely.


    She was stricken by cuteness and blushed thus she retreated.


    "Hey, Elsa! Where are you going? I''m sorry, she is still on the process", said Beth to Mael.


    "Hahaha! Thanks for the letter! Let''s have time to talk later after the party!", he shouted to Elsa.


    "Young master Mael, we will be on our way, let''s talk again later", Nesty said as she grabbed Beth then chased Elsa.


    The program was starting and his mother was the master of ceremony. They made a little program for Mael and they congratulated him one by one. He is seating on the VIP table beside his mother and the guests are making their own speech.


    "Congratulations, young master Mael, for successfully reaching adulthood. I hope you will be as great as your father in the future", messaged the representative of the agriculture and as the last message, was his mother is the one who talked.


    "Son, first of all, I support you on everything as well as your future decisions. Just don''t forget to be humble and kind-hearted to the people. You love them and they will love you back. You''re still young so make many friends, but don''t be a playboy like you father", she paused then all the guests laughed


    "Don''t play the hearts of the girls you''ve met and you''re still forbidden to have girlfriend, not now. And last, be courageous in all of your difficulties along the way", she paused and said, " that is all and enjoy the night."


    All cheered for the young master, they happily sang that night and after the party. He met with the three girls and they talked like normal. In the front of their mansion, they sat on the round table in the lawn while basking in the moonlight. They all dressed in normal clothes and are happily talking.


    "Hey what are your hobbies? Likes and dislikes?", Beth asked Mael.


    Mael thought for a second then replied, "My hobbies are reading books, studying alchemy, enchanting, and as well as training with father. I like athletic games and adventuring or wandering in the Golden Valley. Never been to any place but only Golden Valley. And dislikes is the betrayal from anyone", he explained


    "Ohhhhhh! Betrayal! You''ve been betrayed before? Tell me, who is it? And I will punch her in the face", Nesty said to Mael intrigued


    "Yeah, she''s a special someone. But it''s not important. Well at least I have new friends!", he said to her.


    "Yeah, and we will never betray you! Never!", said Beth.


    "Ummmu!, We will never betray young master Mael! We will protect his feelings!", said Elsa.


    Mael was moved and was about to say something but his new friends are called by their parents.


    "I''m sorry. But we have to go home with our parents. Let''s met again sometime.", said Nesty


    "Goodbye!", said Elsa timidly.


    They left and Mael waved them goodbye.


    He reads the letter in his pocket and then smiled.


    "Thanks", he said to them when they are nowhere to be seen. It''s the word he wants to say to them but they left immediately.

 3 Goodbye

    Mael waked up early and he is greeted by the maids and butler.


    "Good Morning young master!", said their maids.


    "Lord Melvin has regained his consciousness. You may now talk to him because he has totally recovered, young master Mael.", said their butler courteously


    "Oh! That''s good news! Thank you for informing me", said Mael as he pats his shoulders.


    His name is Malidic Greenfield, a jack-of-all-trades butler of the Kael household.


    Mael entered the room and he was smiling to see that his father has fully recovered. Aura''s damage can''t be healed by health potions but only by rest. Quite troublesome if you''re hit by one in the midst of a battle.


    "So how''s it doing?", said Mael as he scratches his head.


    "Quite good now! And I''m sorry for not attending the celebration, You''ve got me in your last hit. Well let''s finish what we''ve talked yesterday", Melvin said then he became serious.


    "I will have a journey and leave the Golden valley in your hands. Don''t worry. Your mother will be here and your butler. I will assemble them immediately for the announcement of your Lordship. Now, I will hand this ring to you as a gift and for the last time. I will teach you the last technique. Master it just in case", Melvin said as he handed the ring


    "What is the ring for?", Mael said as he is dumbfounded.


    Melvin sighed then explained it,


    "Well it''s a secret mission", he said


    "Never tell this to anyone and wait for our return in ten years. Well, based on your growth, you''re stronger than me by that time comes", he said to his son.


    He hugged his father and then he said, "well at least we still have time to practice the last technique. Train me to your heart''s content"


    "Yeah! At least we have that", he said as he hugged him, then pats his head and smiled.


    "You better prepare yourself now, for your pronouncement as the new Lord will be this afternoon. We still have time all day for your practice. Wash first, then let''s train afterward", He said to Mael.


    Mael then left and he closed the door afterward. He grabbed the picture then prepared his clothes for his journey then put it in his backpack.


    "I will wash first", he said as he finished packing.


    In the practice field, they met and Melvin is carrying a shield and chains.


    "So the last technique is the chains and shield?", he said as he pondered scratching his head, while touching his chin.


    "Don''t underestimate this shield and chains for this is the last technique I''m gonna pass on. This is my own original technique, and it is my favorite. As a matter of fact, the shield is the best charge-in to the battle and the chains are best of all but hard to master. Because you can use it to move from tree to tree or building to building, then use it to envelop your arms then attack or strike mid-range with your long reach. I will let you see it in actual battle, so you can choose any weapon. I will use the shield and chains. Is that clear?", Melvin said as he unbuckles his shield.


    Melvin has chains that were wrapped in his left hand and have a shield in his left. He equipped two weapons to demonstrate it briefly.


    "Hurry upon picking your weapon. We don''t have all day", said Melvin irritatedly.


    Mael grabbed his spear and whirled it left and right then put it in his back.


    "Attack!", shouted Melvin.


    Mael swiftly darted to his father. But at that time, his father slammed the chains to the ground where he stood. Luckily, he was fast enough to evade at the right time. The ground was left caved in by the chains, then Melvin retracts the chain to his hand. Mael dashed to him. But at his attempt, he is met with a shield charge by his father then slammed his hands covered with chains.


    Tuk! Bang!


    Huk!


    Mael was astonished by the fact that it was a complete offense-defense. He was thrown to the ground, then stood up immediately. His father then swung his chains then entangled him, putting him on bind. He then pulled him and executed a shield bash. He was thrown, but the chains followed his fall, making him surprised a bit.


    Mael backflipped to gain distance but his father appeared in his sight, ducking and slams his shield upwards. Mael blocked with his spear but he was thrown upwards.


    He flies in the air and then he is smashed to the ground.


    "Okay! okay! I''m sorry! I''m sorry! I underestimated shield and chains!", shouted Mael as his father prepares to slam his chain covered hands to his face


    "Oh? so you see now? the greatness of shield and chains!?", he shouted as he stands like a dignified hero.


    "So wanna try?", he said as he hands over the shield first then the chains


    Mael memorized the technique and he has surprisingly mastered it in just hours. His mother prepared a picnic in the grassy hills and they cherished their time together.


    And at last, the pronouncement has come, the maids all lined up and the butler also bowed at them. Melvin Kael, Erza Kael and, Mael Kael is in formal attire when they marched to the carpet.


    There are visitors all from the representatives of the Golden valley in different sectors and they all attended.


    "Let us welcome the Kael family!", the butler announced their presence to welcome them


    The visitors and guests clap their hands to them then Lord Melvin made his speech.


    "To all residents of Golden Valley, this is the night when we will celebrate the success of my son, Mael Kael. Due to the king''s request, I will be on a journey to fulfill his quest and will be far away for a long time. I will step down as the Lord and my son will act as a temporary Lord for this land. And now I pronounce Mael as the new Lord of Golden Valley!", he paused then he shouted


    "Cheers!"


    They replied with the same shout and they ate and drank happily that night.


    Early in the morning, his father''s carriage is prepared and he said his goodbyes to his son and his wife.


    "Be a good son and don''t overlook the people, love them as your family as you loved me", he said as he pats his son


    "And by the way, be a good brother", he said as he climbed the carriage


    Mael knows what that means and he smiled bitterly as he said goodbye to his father for the last time.

 4 New day

    Mael watched his father as he was getting farther and farther; which was now nowhere to be seen from their sight. His new day of being the lord of the Golden valley starts this morning. He had a lot of work to do. With his knowledge and skills in the past, he will make Golden Valley a better place to live in.


    He assembled the representatives of the different sectors to make plans in the coming future. He needed to secure the Land and the well being of his people.


    First, the agriculture sector. He needs them to practice organic farming and crop rotation, as well as the pest and disease management, food preservation, and many more. Luckily, he studied agriculture in his past life.


    Mael focused on food production. If his knowledge in animal production, fisheries, and plant production is right, then they will last throughout the winter without running out of food.


    Then the laws of the land, the first topic is taxation. The citizens with a job had a twenty percent tax on their monthly income. The farmers are forty percent of their yield, and the industries are forty percent of annual sales. Although his father is a good person, the tax is quite high and the capital city is much worst. This kingdom was corrupted to the bones. Mael wondered where did the money that they collected go? Well fifty percent goes to the treasury of the kingdom and the other fifty percent goes to the treasury of the Golden Valley.


    As he guessed, lowering the tax will also affect the total tax that will go to the kingdom''s treasury. Low tax contributions will also lower the priority of the kingdom''s backing. Even he knows it all, he still made an aggressive move. The kingdom''s tradition in finding money for their coffers is primarily through taxation. They didn''t know a secret that will make the kingdom prosper. It was through business. A high ranking individual has a monthly salary of twenty gold coins but it was just the daily income of the businessman. He planned to make income-generating projects like Breweries, animal productions, vegetable productions, food preservation like; fruit jams, fruit concentrates, canned goods, pickles, and meat preservation like salting and curing.


    He then lowered the tax of the people. The tax of citizens who had a job was lowered to ten percent. The farmers were to twenty percent of their yield, industries were thirty percent of annual sales. This would make the golden valley sweet nectar to their smell and will be a migration hotspot. He thought that many will live here in the long term. The downside is lowering the contribution of the Golden Valley itself to the kingdom treasury, making it the last priority in defending in case of an invasion.


    Next, the pension of the senior citizens, he made a law to make the senior citizens have a pension of at least ten silvers per month. At least, they will not die out of hunger. Then next was the beggars and street children, Mael decided to make a proper place for them to stay so he planned a vacant land from their territory to be their place. Next was the merchants, currently, they were giving rents per day for their occupancy in the market. Mael decided to sell them the goods of the income-generating projects and they will be the ones to deliver it to the entirety of the continent, of course, it is a win-win situation for them.


    Next was the major projects.


    Mining and steelworks, blacksmiths, and craftsmen.


    Mael decided to increase the volume of the production of mining. There was an iron mine in the east, gold mine in the north, and a glass mine in the north-east. He will feed and make a place for them to stay and give jobs to those who were still capable. Of course, they have their salary to receive. Next, the steelworks. With the proper equipment and a larger factory, they can make thousands of stainless steel bars in one day. Then the blacksmiths, with the lower tax they will naturally migrate in Golden valley. Mael planned to make mass production of steel armors and weapons. They really needed it for the coming invasion to arm themselves. Now for the craftsmen, Mael will need them to make tin cans and glass jars en-masse for their local products.


    Constructions and new buildings projects.


    Mael wanted to create new buildings for the residence of the new migrators. As well as the factories of their income-generating projects. The steelworks factory, Larger blacksmithing station, wood cutters, and lumbering stations, charcoal stations, brewery, greenhouse, and research for health potions and mana potions.


    Water systems, drainage, and, water supply.


    Mael was planning on making a water pumping station from the mountain top of Golden mountains, from the small water brooks that have joined together; which consists the big river that encompasses the Golden Valley. If Mael can manipulate the waters from there, then they will have waters for their irrigations and water treatment facility. Mael plans on supplying everyone with drinking water and potable water for many uses. Then the only problem is the drainage. Drainage is useful for controlling floods and thus it is also a major project.


    Primary school for kindergarten and kids.


    Mael is an expert on different subjects and prepared to hand his teaching materials. Thus, the only problem was the teacher who will teach the kids. The kids need to at least to know how to read, write and do basic math. With the kids getting to school earlier, they will develop their self-confidence and socializing skills.


    Watchtowers and walls as well as recruitment of the army for defense.


    Mael confronted with the greatest issue about defending the borders of the Golden Valley. He needs to at least recruit a thousand soldiers to defend his realm. Thus, he recruited the youthful beggars and jobless citizens. Totaled about two hundred recruits, not much, but it was just the first recruitment typically the local residents. The next recruits will be the migrators. With this, Mael plans to expand his territory so he needs to spread the gossip throughout the kingdoms using agents. Then the greatest and most costly budget was for the walls and the watchtowers. Starting from the town''s borders then the Watchtowers of Golden mountains. Golden valley was at the southernmost of the kingdom and was undeveloped. With a river in the side of town''s location and Golden mountains that was encircling the valley, making watchtowers in the mountain tops will be a great strategy. If the budget is enough, then Mael will make walls in the borders like the great wall of china.


    Ports for boats for fishing and trade, as well as making a naval fleet.


    Mael had big dreams and aimed high, basically an idealist and a dreamer. He plans on making the first three ships and he made the designs in a thick paper and then assigned someone on the recruitment.


    Mael finished preparing all plans and the meeting is finished. He prepared dinner beforehand and ate with his visitors. The meeting was adjourned and Mael talked with his mother in the night while in bed.


    "I didn''t know that you are capable to lord the golden valley. I''m surprised that you''re even wiser than your father. I will miss the days of your youth when you are now the Lord of this land", Erza strokes his head as Mael is settled his head on her lap.


    "Yeah, I know. I will take care of you from now on", he replied to her.


    "Oh? So my thirteen-year-old son will take care of me? Just where did that come from? I wonder?", she said as she pinched his cheeks.


    "Mom?", Mael felt annoyed.


    "Let''s just sleep now. We will be early tomorrow", she said as she kissed him in the head.


    "Mom?! I''m not a kid anymore", he said as he said embarrassingly.


    "Good. Then let''s sleep", She said as she cuddles him.


    "Mom it''s suffocating", he said to her.


    "Let me hug you just this time. I know you''re tired", she said.


    "It''s alright mom. I promise to take care of you and my sibling so don''t worry. Let''s wait for dad''s return for the meantime.", he said as he also hugged his mom.


    They stayed like that until Erza fell asleep. Mael walks by the window side and watched the stars. He can hear the crickets and the sound of the frogs that are singing. It was a good feeling of peace and security that lasted until midnight. He watched the meteors fall in the night. Until one of the meteors came crashing in the mountains.

 5 Midnigh

    The shooting stars fell across the pitch black sky and one landed on the Golden mountains. From the window side, Mael who watched and heard the crashing sound of the meteor. He was startled. Then he ignored it and went to bed beside with his mother. He fell asleep in a matter of a minute and falling to the depths of his dreams.


    "Wake up! Wake up, son!", Erza shakes him up and said in a low voice.


    "I think there''s something that is lurking outside the gardens and it disturbs my sleep. I think you need to alarm the guards", she said to him.


    "Okay, mom. But I will check it out myself. You alarm the guards so you will be safe", he said to his mom.


    "Okay I will let you check it out, but promise me to be safe", she said to him.


    "Okay", he said as he kissed her cheeks.


    Mael equipped his sword and leather armor as well as a robe to cover his body. He scanned outside the front yard and there are tracks left. Based on the tracks, whatever that creature was, it is definitely not human. As he observed, it is walking on fours and it was heading to the backyard. He followed the trails and he is walking very slowly, hearing his own footsteps on the grass. When he walked farther and farther from his home, he entered the starting point of their maze-like garden located in their backyard. He saw that the trails are ending and he felt being followed. He heard the rustling sounds from the distance, which made him unsheathed his sword from the scabbard.


    In a night sky filled with stars, the moon illuminated his path through it''s dim light. Thanks to that he can clearly see his surroundings. The rustling was getting nearer and nearer then his heart stopped for a second.


    From the tall bush, a monster jumped on the air and attacked him. It was a human-like creature that had claws and was skinny. With the light of the moon, its face is revealed. It had a rotten face with wide jaws and saw-like teeth. A ghoul to be exact. He saw its drawings and representations in the monster bibliography since he''s a kid.


    Mael stepped back when it attacked. Thus, he evades its strike. He then countered the monster, but only cutting its hide. Not its flesh. It was not cut, but it was thrown to the bushes by the impact of the sword. He chased it, but it disappeared in the dark maze.


    Mael panicked and hastily exited, but the creature was already lying dead. Headless. It was killed by their butler Malidic Greenfield, he swings the sword to remove the blood and sheaths it.


    "Young master! I''m glad you''re okay! Don''t worry about the monsters, they''re all disposed of. As of now, the mansion is secured, but this is new for them to come to this far. What is really happening?", he said to Mael.


    "I don''t know, but this is bad", he replied.


    His mother then came to them running, while she is escorted by their personal guards.


    "I''m glad you''re safe! I''m worried about you! Are you hurt somewhere?", she said as she surveyed his body.


    "Guards escort young master Mael on his quarters", she ordered.


    "Mom, there''s no need. If you''re worried about me then I''m moved. But as the lord of the land, I need to know what is happening right now. Why are these monsters here in our estate? Is the town safe right now?", he inquired.


    "Okay, I understand that you''re responsible for the welfare of the people. But don''t overexert yourself. You''re still young and had a bright future ahead. I will give you half of our personal guards, as well the elites. But promise me to be safe, okay?", she said in a serious manner.


    "Okay, mom. I promise.", he said as he kissed her in the cheeks.


    Mael prepared his potion belt, sword, and armor. He assembled the troops when a man shouts at them while running hastily.


    "Help! There are monsters attacking the town!", he shouts to them in the middle of the night.


    Mael verified the person and he was bloody. He had a big open wound on his stomach and blood was gushing from it. Mael grabbed his health potion on his belt and he applied it to the wound, then the half was consumed by the person.


    Immediately, the wound was slowly closing and the person was starting to feel better. He told them to save the people, because there are monsters that are killing the townspeople.


    The guards were moved and Mael was stricken by anger. He immediately gave instructions to them.


    "Form in four groups and each will be assigned to each respective area. First, we will go to the town center and then spread out to the north, south, east and, west of the town then we will give signals to each of the mission statuses. Now move!", he ordered them.


    Mael and his troops are running fast in the road and they are nearing the town, they saw from the distance the patrols, as well as other normal citizens armed with pitchforks, are fighting the monsters. Mael ordered them to initiate a fight and kill them immediately.


    Some civilians that were wounded was lying on the roads and others were desperately fending off the ghouls. His troops are fighting the ghouls and some beheaded them immediately. Mael confronted one when a kid was cornered by one ghoul and then beheaded it. She then found by her mom that had a bite on her shoulders.


    Mael and his troops move forward, killing the monsters in the way until they arrive at the town center.


    The monsters were coming from all directions and they are encircled and surrounded. The monsters are drawn to the living and they sensed them. Mael is at the center and they are all ready to fight.


    Mael then gave them monster attractants to each squad.


    "After you''ve arrived at the four directions, you have to use the monster attractants to lure them to this town center where we stand now. We will then exterminate them once and for all", Mael gave orders and they moved immediately.


    The monsters attacked his four squads when they go to the four different directions, but they stopped. The monsters are ignoring them and they passed through. The monsters are just passing them and when they looked back, they saw the young master battling them all.


    "Young master!", shouted some of his troops.


    "Finish your mission! That''s an order!", he shouted in the center.


    The troops were disheartened, but they still chose to obey their master. They dashed to the streets illuminated by street lamps and the ghouls were ignoring them. They successfully arrived at the four different directions and released the monster attractant where the monster attractant of Mael can''t reach. The luring was a success and they fired a signal of mission success by a magic device that releases lights in the sky.


    North, South and, East fired a signal of success. But the signal of the west is delayed. Later on, the rescue signal was fired.


    They were now coming to the meeting place and they were chased by ghouls, hoping for their master to hold out until they come. Mael was battling them and his slashes are deep, but their skin could recover fast. He can only fend them off, because of their numbers that exceed a hundred. Mael was pressured and currently fighting alone. He activated his aura and used his body enhancement and force. The enemies was blown with each punch, but it''s quite draining. He did his best to fend them off and it works. His aura damage was working and some who can''t resist the pain collapsed. They all collapsed, but they were quite persistent and attacks again.


    The west squad was outnumbered and their escape route was blocked. The number of ghouls on the west was greater than those on the town square. They keep on getting bigger. It seems that they were coming from the west. They were on the verge of surrendering after they fought for an hour and their health potions have run out.


    They were making a circle to protect the wounded in the middle.


    "We''re surrounded! What do we do?", asked one that holds a halberd.


    "We fired the rescue signal. Better be saved than killed", said the one who treats the wound.


    "We can still hold them back, but not forever", said the one who held a sword and shield.


    "Let''s pray that they will come on time", said the one with a halberd.


    The monsters had now surrounded them and they all wailed in the night then attacks. The ghouls smashed the one with a shield, but were slashed by the halberd. The halberd bearer was slashed by the other ghouls and his armor was pierced through.


    "Help him!", shouted their senior.


    They dragged him at the center and one is added to the wounded. The ghouls slammed through their defense and almost slashed the one who treats the wounded, but a sword flew and pierced through the skull.


    They recognized the hilt of the sword and they knew the owner of the sword. It''s their young master!


    "East squad and North squad, defend!, South squad treat the west squad!", Mael commanded them.


    The west squad almost burst on tears. They had lost hope a second ago and accepted their fates, but here they are alive.


    Mael then released his aura and rampaged with force applied.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The sound resounded for several minutes until they were all killed. They roared with their victory shout and Mael nearly cried.


    "I''m so glad everyone''s safe", he said.

 6 Brawl

    Mael emerged victorious from the battle and helped the injured people. With the ghouls exterminated, they began to treat the injured with first aid. Even though they had saved many, there were still many casualties and people who lost their lives from the attack. They covered their faces with cloth as the loved ones lamented.


    They set up a tent in the town square and moved the injured. They were cooperating to save lives before his mother''s army arrived. With their help, they are more efficient. The local priest named Alibaba arrived and began healing the wounds of those who were in critical condition first along with others who were experiencing excessive bleeding, specifically the ones who were bitten and clawed. She managed to heal the critical ones and those who are in near-death state, unfortunately she ran out of mana.


    She was exhausted and her trickled with sweat. She already drank many bottles of mana potion, but she was still not halfway through. Their health potion had ran out and mana potion were the remaining potions they had.


    "What can I do to help? There''s still so many", Mael felt worried.


    "If only I can extract mana from a donor", she said while looking to Mael.


    "If mana is the problem, then I have plenty. Please save as many as you can", Mael said, offering his own mana to the priest.


    She smiled when she heard it then said, "This would be painful and you might collapse halfway. The reason I refuse to use it, unless it was badly needed"


    "Well, if that''s the only way to save them, then why not?", Mael refuted.


    "Okay. This will hurt, but endure it", she said as she pressed his back.


    Mael was starting to feel the excruciating pain as his mana was being sucked rapidly. He wanted to scream due to the pain. But he held back his voice. He managed to stay awake, but he began getting dizzy. The extraction was completed and he collapsed after it. After he passed out, he was carried to a bed. Alibaba thanked him and resumed her healing.


    "Wow! His mana was enormously huge! How did he had this mana capacity?", she wondered as she exits his room.


    They were on the process of healing them. At the moment, Erza was managing the troops in distributing food and drinks for those who were healed and resting in the tent.


    Erza was watching over her son at his tent where he sleeps, when there was a scout that had brought a news.


    "Please come in", she said as she stands.


    "Lady Erza, I have brought you bad news, the monsters coming from the west and they will arrive here in minutes, we suspect that they are coming from the Golden Mountains and one of the scouts saw that they came out from the dungeon gate. I suggest that you rally the troops", he said while on his knees.


    "Okay, thank you for your service. You may go back to your post", she said.


    The scout exited the tent, then she called Maledict.


    "Assemble the troops, we''ve got company", she said to him.


    "Yes, Lady Erza, as you command", he replied as he bowed down.


    He exits again and then she was alone again with his son.


    "If Melvin was here, this wouldn''t burden you so", she said as she sighed.


    She kissed Mael on the forehead then said, "Rest well son, we will come back safely"


    She prepared the troops on the west side of the town and left a third to guard the town. They heard monsters wailing from the distance as they were approaching.


    Maledic assembled them in the west part of the village and now he was just waiting for orders. Maledic wore a full plated armor and Erza equipped her gold plated armor. The moon shone brightly and was lighting up the upcoming battle. The wind blew colder enough to make anyone shiver.


    "Men! Attention!", Maledic shouted like a battlefield commander.


    "As you''ve commanded, I''ve assembled them already. They are ready to attack anytime", Maledic said to Lady Erza.


    "Good! Then we will engage in combat in the plains. Let''s march towards the plains then holds in the line. Initiate a phalanx formation in the front and the archers will fire from their backs as we march forward", she executed battle formations as she equips her war helmet.


    "Remember! If you fight courageously and perished, then we who are alive will forever sing of your heroism until the last days of our lives! We fight to protect the weak and the weak pray for our victory!", she said then she draws her sword.


    "Everyone march!", she shouted while whipping her horse.


    They marched with great morale and is in high spirits. They are willing to fight for their land and to die for it. They are all in sync in terms of the movement of their feet. The archers are in the range of the enemies.


    "Archers! Ignite your arrows!", Erza shouted.


    The archers then poured oils in their arrows then on Erza''s signal.


    "Fire!", she shouted.


    They released the arrows and it lit up the skies. Diving down and piercing towards the ghouls'' bodies as they ran. It made the ghouls burn on their sight and they were glad it was effective.


    "Reload! Fire!", she shouted.


    They were burned, but their numbers are just increasing. They are coming out of the dungeon gate and is not stopping.


    "Their numbers are increasing! they are coming out non stop!", shouted one of the archers.


    "Hold your ground!", Erza shouted.


    The enemies are whittled down by the archers but there are some that survived the burning arrows and are heading their way.


    "Spearmen! Lift your shields when they will attack! pierce them with spears! bash them then thrust!", Erza shouted when giving commands.


    "Archers! don''t stop firing! footman! cover the sides! spearmen! defend the front! cavalry! form wedge! protect the archers!", she said while changing formations.


    The enemies jumped at the spearmen and were skewered by the spears. Some that survived the spear made a body charge at the shields.


    "Bash them!", Erza shouted.


    They followed her orders thus they bashed the ones who charge at them. Some have passed through the spear men''s defenses and they are confronted by the cavalry. They repeated their routine for fifteen minutes, their strategy seems to work out until they have run out of arrows.


    "They do not stop coming! we are surrounded!", said someone on their ranks.


    The soldiers have depleted their stamina and are cornered at the center of the swarming monsters.


    "Don''t lose hope! As long as we maintain our formation then we will survive!", Said Erza.


    The enemies are very tenacious and they are regenerating their wounds. No wonder they kept on coming and are getting abundant.


    "Haaaaaah!'', shouted the spearman who is grabbed from his defense position and is pulled to the swarming ghouls.


    "Don''t let them pull you! Don''t let them pass! Hold your position!", Erza tirelessly shouted.


    They are holding their positions when the ghouls at the front breached the formations of the spearmen. The sturdy wall of Erza''s army was breached and they came rushing through like a flood. They were in disarray and then many are immediately killed by them.


    "Regroup!", shouted Erza.


    But the rushing flood of monsters passed through the cavalry and attacked the leader of the army.


    When the enemy coming near towards Erza, Maledic immediately moved to guard Erza.


    Bang!


    It''s brains splattered in the ground and everything felt silent. It was punched by an unknown guy with clanking chains wrapped in both of his hands.


    When he turned, he smiled and said, "You promised to come back but you''re late so I checked you out"


    "Son! Watch out!", Erza shouted.


    The ghoul is sliced in the neck and its head rolled over.


    "You''re not careful young master, you might lose one kilogram of meat if you''re bitten!", he said as he removed the blood in his sword by flicking the sword.


    "Thanks! I plan to punch it but I can''t let it interrupt my speech", Mael said.


    "See you later! I''ve got a job to do!", he said as he jumped to the air.


    He picked a monster attractant from his potion belt then he poured monster attractant to his robes.


    "Hey I''m here bastards!", he shouted at them.


    They all looked at him and goes after him.


    Mael jumped and unchained his chains.


    "Whip mode on!", he said like a gamer, and while in mid-air, he slammed his chains to the ghouls. He whipped his chains left and right and the ghouls shrieked to the pain. They will not die and regenerate but they will still feel the pain. They are getting nearer and nearer and his chains are at disadvantaged if it is used was close combat. Due to its use is mid-range attacks and not close quarter combat.


    Some have passed through his chains and he is forced to evade and kick them. He retracted the chains in his hands and whirls it in his arms, wrapping it up.


    "Punching mode on!", another gamer shout is being mentioned.


    He combined the unarmed technique and the chain technique by his father and launched through his enemies.


    Bang!


    "Um. Lady Erza, if it is not rude to you. Well, can I ask a question? Did Melvin raised him like that?", Maledic questioned Erza.


    "Well, who knows?", she said as she laughed.


    Mael went through the enemy lines and is heading to the portal.


    "Wait! Is he planning on luring them to go back to the portal?", asked Erza to Maledic.


    "Seem like it to me, Lady Erza", said Maledic.


    "Bastard! He is just like his father!", she cursed.


    "Let''s follow him to the portal! Charge!", she shouted.


    Mael was near the entrance and he saw that the ghouls were following, as well as the army.


    "Good! Now you hold them back for me!", he said as he jumped to the portal of the dungeon gate.


    The ghouls followed him in the dungeon and the army arrived at the entrance.


    "Surround the entrance! Don''t let anything escape!", she ordered.


    "Hmm, Is this also part of his plan?", Maledic felt surprised.


    "I guess so. Well, who knows?", she replied.

 7 Ghoul dungeon

    Mael jumped to the dungeon gate and immediately saw a desolate dead forest like the horror movies of his past life. The forest was dark and it seems that the sky was telling him that the night is approaching. In this forest, the trees are withered and they look like vicious monsters lurking in the dark and ready to attack anytime.


    He ran fast and purposely left his robes while he was running. With that, they will not follow his scent but the robes instead. He lost them and escaped to the depths of the forest.


    With the disturbing look of the trees, his ego screams in the depths of his mind.


    Raaaahhhhhhhrrrrrrr!


    Followed by the ghouls'' screams, his heart raced as he thought that the monsters lost their lead to where he is.


    The desolate place had a decaying smell, as it was full of ghouls'' decaying leftovers corpses lying around somewhere.


    Mael nearly panicked, because he is running in a dark forest without light.


    Pak!


    Mael stumbled upon a decaying corpse that had a look of screaming while eaten alive. It''s eyes were opened wide and he filled with flies inside its mouth.


    Mael gasped as he backs away, never expected to experience something like this. In his mind. He will be meeting many more corpses on the way.


    In his current situation, his problem is the light source. Luckily, his small backpack has a floating lantern. He placed his backpack in the ground then he grabs the lantern.


    "If I will use this, then they will see me in the night", he said in his mind wondering what to do.


    He then grabbed something small, he pulls it then saw a pair of curved daggers.


    "Luckily I''ve got this!", he said as he equips his back up daggers.


    With the chains still covering his arms, he attaches it to chains. With the chains attached, he has higher combat prowess. His hands covered with chains can defend attacks and he can attack mid range with daggers attached chains.


    "Now let''s roll!", he said as he reverse gripped the daggers.


    It will be not long for them to follow my scent. Better walk in the dark than to be surrounded by enemies with a lantern.


    He is encompassing the dark night while crouching, his eyes adjusted to the surroundings and saw everything, even the bugs that are crawling. He was continuing his travels then he saw corpses once more, while the ghouls are pulling them by their mouths. He retreated then stumbled upon a man. His skin accidentally touched Mael''s and surprisingly, his body was still warm.


    "He''s still warm?", Mael questioned as he touched his neck, looking for a pulse and in his surprise, he can feel faint pulse.


    His shoulders are bloodied and it is surprisingly has a dress of a noble. The person is breathing very slow and he is on the verge of dying.


    Mael hurriedly grabbed his health potion then assisted him to drank it.


    Uhug! uhuk! uhuk!


    The person coughed and was slowly regaining strength. His wounds were closing and he was slowly moving.


    "Hey can you hear me? what happened to you? how did you get here?", Mael asked alarmed.


    The person was quite awake and he immediately replied, not even seeing his face in the darkness so he doesn''t recognize that Mael was still a teen-ager.


    "Save my daughter! she was taken by the monsters! We were attacked in the streets and she was forcefully taken away from me. I tried to fight, but I was clawed on my shoulders. I followed them here, but I''ve lost too much blood so I''ve collapsed right where I am now. Please if you can save her, I will repay you with my life. You can even make me you slave if you want so please help her. Help my child", he said as he began to cry not knowing what to do.


    "Right! Right! I will help but you will repay me handsomely", Mael said while wondering what will be his role in his golden valley.


    "Maybe he will be a good miner in the mines. Nah, a farmer maybe, well anyone can be a farmer", he pondered in his mind.


    "Hey are you listening? Please be quick! Or we will only reach her dead body. Did you see? They are gathering food for their queen! All those dead bodies are her food!", he said to him as he grabbed him in his hands


    Mael was stunned by the information in he obtained.


    "Well that explains everything. Thank you for the info. Hide here. I''m going to their lair. If I didn''t come back in an hour or two, then it is time for you to leave and forget about your daughter", he said as he pats his shoulders.


    Mael immediately resumes his scouting mission and he sneaks while moving from tree to tree. He is peeping first then moves if it is clear. He arrived to where he is before and the corpses are all moved to another location.


    "They''ve finished earlier than expected, better to move faster", he said in his mind while sneaking


    The night was getting darker and he heard their wailings. He moved forward and then saw a great cave in the forest. It has a mouth of fifty feet high and was very dark inside. It was guarded by two ghouls and they are moving to and fro. Mael waited tirelessly for them to go inside but sadly, they never get tired doing all that marching.


    He sighed. "Better assassinate them than wait for them until morning. I never had that kind of patience", he said, while he scratched his cheeks.


    The ghouls are moving to and fro and Mael memorized their patterns. He waited for them to turn around and show their backs to him. With the right timing, he throws the daggers to their heads and then it pierced making a slitting sound. Mael pulled the chains and then wrapped the chains in his hands.


    Mael was entering the lair and worried that his cover will be blown. He pulled his only sense-hindering potion in his potion belt and then trickled it in his leather armor. He chose leather armor because it''s lighter than metal and does not hinder his movements. With it he can evade any attack with ease.


    Mael was encompassing the darkness. As he goes deeper, the light was getting dimmer the before. Without even a faint light, his eyes might not see anything. He has no skill to see in the darkness and he is left with no choice but to use the floating lantern.


    He dropped his bag and then pulled the floating lantern. He activated a switch then it started to light the tunnels. He tinkered it a bit to follow him wherever he goes.


    The tunnels are wide and you can run around if you like. With the time passes by, its walls are covered with moist that is coming from the coldness of the temperature. The floor was covered with dried up blood from the corpses they have dragged with them recently.


    With the help of the lantern, he can see automatically the details of the tunnels. However, it only made his precious sense-hindering potion gone to waste.


    "My one day of painstakingly making was just watered down to the drain", he said to himself.


    "With the light of the lantern, it is not a surprise for them to know my entry", he said.


    He continued following the trail but he wondered where are the ghouls. He didn''t met one even traveling for minutes. He continued to walk, but he saw that the trail is separated to two. He observes the left and saw that it is where the blood trails are going and the right is just footprints of blood stained claws.


    "If the bodies are dragged here, then the queen''s room is here and the other one is not even important, yeah the left one is the answer", he said as he chose to meet the queen. Because there''s a high chance that the missing girl was dragged there in the corpses den.


    Meanwhile outside the dungeon, the guards are holding out but is running out of potions, the dungeon reduced the spawning of monsters after he went inside but there is till many.


    The first line of defense were the spearmen. One line is enough to surround the dungeon gate and the footmen were there at their backs. With the archers ran out of their arrows, they made the third line of defense. The cavalry was protecting Erza on a wedge formation and she was in the center.


    "Spearmen! Don''t let anyone pass! footmen! Cover their backs! Archers switch to swords!" She orders them around and not loosing hope.


    She was patiently waiting for his son and worried about him


    "Lady Erza, young master was still not back and it''s been hours", said Maledic worriedly.


    "Don''t worry about him. Worry about the people if they gets through us", she said with a loud voice.


    "I''m sorry, Lady Erza. I will be careful with my statements next time", he apologized.


    "Hurry up, son. What were you thinking?", she said in her mind.

 8 Battle of wits

    Mael is on his way to the inside of the so-called queen''s lair and calmly walking in his illuminated path.


    The noise of ghouls is very faint and he is hearing his footsteps.


    Tak! tak! tak!


    The noise of ghouls is getting louder as he threads his path. With the light he is carrying, he can see clearly. The ghouls are getting nearer and nearer. His dagger was gripped tightly and preparing for the upcoming battle.


    His own sound of breathing was getting louder as well as the noise of monsters.


    Roaaaaaarrrrrrrrgggggg!


    Mael heard their shouts and they are approaching in the front.


    Raaaaaaaagggghhhh!


    The screams are coming also coming from the back.


    "I''m surrounded!", he exclaimed.


    Tagatak! tagatagatak!


    The sound from the steps of the approaching ghouls echoed all throughout the hollow cave. Mael made his fighting stance, then the monsters darted to him. With only a lamp, he can''t see the enemies from afar but can only see the fifty-meter radius of the extended range of the floating lantern.


    Rak!


    One of the ghouls jumped at him. He made a horizontal slash at the neck while moving sideways. By the time he evaded, another one jumped at him. It was about to bite him. Fortunately, Mael then blocked with his chains wrapped hands and pierced it''s the forehead.


    Shak!


    Resounded the piercing curve dagger bury on its head after he pulled the dagger.


    Mael slashed the ghouls jumping over him, but they were evading rapidly. His cuts were shallow due to the quick attacks of the enemies.


    The ghouls kept on regenerating their wounds in seconds. Mael felt quite dismayed about it. All he can do was to cut them with shallow wounds due to the hardy flesh of ghouls.


    "Hmmm. Cuts?", he wondered a bit for a second.


    "Aha! Eureka!", he said as he kicked a ghoul that made it fly.


    He gathered force, while kicking more of them, then unleashed it.


    "Ha!", Mael shouted as he released the force.


    All incoming ghouls were thrown off and knocked off.


    "I only have three seconds for them to stand up", he said while grabbing a bottle in the potion belt.


    He uncaps the bottle and poured it to his curve daggers.


    "Heh! Poison!", he grinned.


    The monsters were getting up as he prepared for another wave.


    "Come at me, dimwits!", he shouted.


    Roars echoed in the tunnels and their noise was deafening. The monsters, then launched an attack. He was making the offense this time. He aggressively cuts them by his dagger.


    Sometime in the past, his father taught him the manner of cutting an enemy in rapid motions.


    "Mael, the technique to do this rapid cuts is to synchronize your two hands like whirling water. Be careful not to collide your right with your left, and then lastly, attack with speed and power", Melvin said to him while patting his head.


    "Yes, dad. I''ve instilled it in my mind", Mael replied.


    Mael grinned as he remembered his father. He closed his eyes, then focused while the ghoul jumped at him.


    Slash! slash! slash!


    The three ghouls are slashed instantly, then slashed again the upcoming ones.


    "One. Two. And Three!", he counted then the ghouls he slashed were knocked down.


    It''s called Rabid viper poison. Its effects were: first, it paralyzes the victim after three seconds; two, making the victim pass out in ten seconds; and last, killing it slowly in an hour.


    Mael chuckled as he saw that the poison is taking effect and still continuing on slashing them. He evaded and slashed one ghoul after another. The ones that were getting near were kicked away.


    His rapid slashes continues. But his floating lantern is barely coping up with his speed. He made sure that he can only cut one and to never cut twice a single ghoul.


    After half an hour, the ghouls were all lying on the floor. Whining on the pain the poison has caused, he stands solitarily and his lantern in the piling bodies.


    "Let''s proceed to the next place, let''s go floating lantern", he said to his companion but it didn''t reply anything.


    For Mael, it is okay to have someone to talk to for some time.


    Mael traveled again in the tunnel and he saw that the path is getting wider, he then exited the tunnel and arrived at the right place.


    "The queen''s chamber!", he exclaimed as he saw a wide dome that is littered with bones and dead bodies.


    He can''t see the extent of the ceiling because of his lantern''s limit. He scanned the surroundings and luckily, nothing is in there but only a pile of dead bodies and bones.


    "Damn! Am I too late? Please be alive!", he screamed in his mind.


    He starts to find the missing girl and he has no clues to what she is wearing.


    "Damn! That old man didn''t even tell me what she was wearing. I also forgot to ask about it!", he cursed in his mind.


    He began to be desperate while finding when he saw a girl with a red dress. He saw that she has claw marks in her hands but it''s only a shallow wound. She still breathes, but it was just faint. The problem is, half of her body was stuck from piled bodies.


    "Hang in there, girl. You''re going home soon", he said in his mind.


    He pulled the bodies that were piling over her. He successfully pulled her out. He lifted her head and assisted her to drink a health potion.


    She surprisingly drank it hastily due to her thirst.


    Kuhuk! kuhuk!


    "Hello can you hear me?", he asked.


    The girl opened up her eyes and then blinked three times.


    "Are you okay?", he asked.


    The girl is silent and didn''t reply to him.


    Aaaaaaahhhhhh!!!!


    The girl shouted and Mael felt alarmed, he turned around and was shocked by what she was seeing.


    There was something big glaring at them from the dark. At the ceiling with a grim face who has large jaws. Big enough to shake the ground as she lands on the ground.


    Boom!


    Ghoul Mother!!!


    Run!!!


    Mael shouted and the girl immediately runs towards the exit. Mael grabs his daggers to throw it to her, but she smashed his floating lantern. Making him blind. Darkness everywhere.


    Shuk!


    The dagger continued its flight towards the ghoul mother and successfully stabbing her. But the downside, Mael lost his sight in the process. Mael pulled his chains, wrapping it on his hands. He closed his eyes, because it''s useless. He used his ears instead.


    "Feel the breathing, the distance, the footsteps", he said in his mind while focusing.


    "Twenty meters away, three o''clock", he estimated in his mind.


    Mael listened to her breathing and then launched attacks in her direction.


    "Rapid slash! Chained dagger edition!", he attacked furiously to where she was and he can feel that she is taking the blows.


    Wraaaaar!


    She screamed at the pain and her bloodlust to him is heightening. She followed the direction of the chains and came thrashing all over.


    Bang! bang! bang!


    Mael was evading until he stumbled upon a corpse and tripped. His body smashed the floor and landed on a body.


    As he crawled upon the floor, the ghoul mother was still trashing all over. He crawls and crawls and then saw faint light to the exit. He crawls slowly then heard a loud scream.


    Aaaahhhhh!!!


    Mael felt alarmed when he realized who it is.


    "The girl!", he shouted in his mind.


    Without a doubt, it was the girl he was trying to save. He immediately runs to the exit stealthily and saw the floating lantern next to the child. The child was being held by a ghoul on her neck. Mael was struck by a great dread.


    "Release her!!!", he shouted but the ghoul wounds her neck and throws her away instead.


    Mael nearly broke down. He blamed himself for his incompetence to protect the child from the monster.


    Filled with rage, he gripped his dagger then slashed it furiously like never before in his life. He executed a stab in the belly with all his force then ripped it with all his might. He stabbed once more, but right now he buried it on it''s neck. He twisted it and pulled. He stabbed it repeatedly and the ghoul kept wailing until it died from the poison.


    He immediately scanned the wound in her neck and then pulled his last health potion. He removed the cap and trickled it to the wound. Luckily, the wound was shallow. It was closing slowly until it is healed.


    Mael nearly cried, he never felt so relieved in his life before. Droplets of tears are coming from his eyes.


    "We''re coming home, we''re coming home", he said as he caressed her hair.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    Banging sounds echoed in the tunnel and his emotional feelings vanished.


    "You! You will pay for everything that you''ve done in my land, my people, and my hometown", he shouted as he launched to the Ghoul mother.


    With the poison already working, the ghoul mother was weakened, fighting for her last breath. Her life is on the last part of its flight.


    Mael jumped at her, stabbing to her eyes. Sliced his daggers upwards. The ghoul mother screamed, then it showed its throat to him. He got his chance to attack once more, he slashed its throat and its scream has ended.


    Mael finished her off and her body is slowly fading. He then saw that it left a golden stone. Mael took the stone and wondered what it is. He lifted it, narrowing his eyes as he surveyed it. But he couldn''t figure out what it was.


    "I''m gonna let it be identified if I get back to the Golden Valley", he said as stored it to his backpack.


    While he was talking, the girl moved and feels her neck.


    "Ahhhh!!! Am I dead?", she screamed in surprise.


    "No. Silly girl!", Mael said as he pinched her in the cheeks.


    "Hey, who are you? Where''s my dad?", she asked.


    "Your dad is waiting outside. We have to hurry, because he will be leaving soon", Mael said as he remembered that the one-hour agreement is almost up.


    "The dungeon was cleared! All the monsters are exterminated! Initiate closing of the dungeon!"


    The unknown voice resounded in the dungeon and the ground is trembling.


    "Let''s hurry! The dungeon is closing!", Mael shouted as she piggy-backed her.


    Mael dashed and the floating lantern is following them. They encompassed the forest and saw the gate.


    "Are you excited to meet your father? We''re gonna meet him soon", Mael said to her


    "Yeah!", she said as she began to cry.


    Mael jumped to the gate and then saw everyone.


    "The young master is back! He''s alive", shouted Maledic and then they all cheered together.

 9 Coming home

    Mael jumped to the exit of the dungeon portal.


    "Here we go!!!", Mael said as he jumped


    They exited and then saw many soldiers surrounding them. The dungeon gate is now closing and it emitted a bright light. All is silent for a moment then they all shout.


    "The young master is alive! He came back!", shouted Maledic.


    Whaaaaa!!!!


    Woooohhhhh!!!


    All shouts can be heard and Erza was surprised. Due to the stirring emotions she felt inside, she couldn''t help it but unmounts from her horse and hurriedly runs towards her son.


    "Move! Make way to Lady Erza!", shouted Maledic.


    The soldiers moved aside as they make way for the two of them.


    "Soldiers! Line up! Attention!", Maledic shouted an army command.


    Mael and his mother are running between the soldiers that have lined up. Mael puts down the kid and runs towards her.


    "Mael! My son!", she shouted as she throws away her helmet.


    "Mom!", shouted Mael.


    "Son!", she shouted with teary eyes.


    Mael and Erza are getting nearer and nearer. As they meet, in a blink of an eye, Erza punches him at the stomach.


    "Mom! Huk!", he gasped for air as he was thrown off.


    "What were you thinking?! You jumped into the dungeon all by yourself! What if you didn''t come back?! Why can''t you at least let me protect you as your mother?! That''s not bravery, Mael! It''s foolishness! And that foolishness will kill you someday!", she said angrily.


    Mael kneeled on the ground, gasping air as he could.


    "By the way, soldiers! Hand salute!", she said as she saluted Mael.


    Mael was still confused by what it was about. He lifted his head. Erza still continued her speech while standing straight.


    "For saving people selflessly, for the bravery you''ve shown. Now I proclaim you the hero of land! Mael of Golden Valley!", she shouted then raised his hands.


    Mael immediately stands up and he awkwardly raised his hands. He stood in the midst of the crowd as he saw all the soldiers hailed his name. They were raising their weapons way up high while all shouting.


    Mael replied with a shout to lighten up the mood of the crowd.


    "Soldiers! withdraw!", Erza shouted to the soldier to go back to the town.


    Mael immediately looked for the girl he saved and saw her running.


    "Daddy!", the girl shouted.


    "Anna! Oh, my child!, I thought you were dead!", the old man said as he broke down and cried.


    "Daddy! He saved me! I woke up and....", she rapidly talked, but she was shushed by his father.


    "I know. I know", he said as he combs her golden hair.


    "By the way", he immediately turned to Mael.


    "Thanks for saving my daughter. By the way, how rude of me! I''m Vanz Aldougs, assistant to the King Leomurd Ainztain. Yes, the king himself. As our agreement, I will happily serve you and your house, Lord Mael Kael of Golden Valley", he said as he bowed down to Mael.


    "At ease, Sir Vanz! You have a great offense to me, because you didn''t give the details of the appearance of your daughter. Luckily, I saved the right one! I really wondered what will be your reaction if I saved the wrong one! If that happens, I''m not at fault. Since you didn''t even tell me what is her appearance, yeah?", Mael said as sir Vanz is nodding very fast.


    "It is a great disaster! Thus, I punish you to go to my house and eat dinner with us tonight", Mael said with a threat.


    "As for the details of your new job, well, let''s discuss it at my house. Shall we?", he said as he laughed and turns.


    Vanz carried his child on his big arms as they walked home together with the army. While they are walking home, Anna leaned closer to her dad''s ears.


    "Dad! This person is a bad person. I will bet my future birthday gift for that!", Anna whispered to her dad.


    "Hahahaha!!!", Sir Vanz laughed.


    "It''s not needed, Anna. But if your hunch was correct, then I will double your present!", he laughed.


    Mael and the army was nearing the town''s west gate. They marched towards the streets, seeing people that were cheering for them. They opened their windows and then beside the streets. The people are releasing floating lanterns to the streets. Anna and the soldiers are watching in awe as the marched.


    Sir Vanz was walking beside Erza and Maledic, while carrying his daughter in his shoulders.


    "Wow! Look at that dad! They are floating!", Anna said to him, pointing at the lanterns.


    "Yes, Anna. It''s the first time I''ve seen something this pretty", he said in awe.


    "My son is the one who made it when he was six", Erza proudly said.


    "Say what!?", Vanz surprisingly said.


    "Yeah! And he gave one each to every household from his own expense. He used money he had gained from his selling potions. He''s a great alchemist, by the way! He loves enchanting random objects when he was twelve.", she said then sighed.


    "I miss the old days. When he was still crawling at his crib and pees in his bed", she happily said.


    They marched and the people are singing a melodious song for them. A song of victory and safe coming from a bloody battled. Mael was happy to protect his people and didn''t regret it at all.


    After minutes of walking, they arrived at the mansion. The gate was a big and made of steel with the family crest on the center. they are approached by the head maid and maidservants.


    "Welcome Lord Mael, Lady Erza, and guests! We''ve prepared a tea in case you''re all tired.", the head of the maids then bowed down.


    "Good! Prepare a meal for our guests immediately and a room to sleep", Erza said to her.


    "As you wish, my lady!", she bowed again and then left.


    "As you can see, we''re not that wealthy like the king. But I hope you will still enjoy your stay in our humble home." Mael turned to their butler. "Maledic, please guide our guests. Let''s meet in the dining room later. Now if you''ll excuse me", he said as he left and went to his room.


    He grabbed the golden stone from his backpack then puts it in his hidden chest under his bed.


    "Mael, the guests were now waiting downstairs. You might wanna come out this instant", his mom said behind his door.


    "Coming!", he answered back.


    Mael also changed his clothes into sleepwear and then exited his room. He hurriedly walks in the stairs and the guests have changed their clothes into sleeping wear also, and they have taken a bath just recently.


    In the living room, Sir Vanz, Anna, and Erza are sitting on the couch. While Maledic was standing behind Erza''s. The maids were pouring tea to each one of them.


    "Looks like you''ve waited for so long!", Mael said to them.


    "Oh, no! We''re just sitting here for an hour. It''s just a breeze", Erza said to him.


    "I''m sorry! But let me get to the point. I wanna be an adventurer!", he said to his mother.


    "If you wanna be an adventurer, then I can recommend you to", said Vanz but it was cut by Erza.


    "No!!!", she shouted firmly as she smashed her teacup


    The hot tea was drenched on her hands stinging from the burn, but she didn''t mind it.


    "After all that happened, you still wanna be an adventurer?", she exclaimed.


    "Mom, hear me out first. Have you seen what happened when these gates are left open? We know that the only way to close them is by killing the bosses. And I want to eradicate every last one of them to make the kingdom a better place. And I want to investigate what is happening with Lumia. At least to atone for the ones I didn''t save. At least I can save the others", he said to his mom.


    "Son, you don''t have to take the blame for everything that had happened. You are just a teenager! You''re supposedly attending school next year!", she said.


    "Mom at least let me help them, even a little", he said.


    Erza sighed, she can''t predict his son''s mind and thus she surrendered.


    "Okay. But promise me after one year, you will come back and attend school, promise?", she said as she offers her pinky.


    Mael smiled then he responded with his pinky.


    "Mom, this is a child''s promise-making", Mael retorted.


    "Who cares? as long it''s a promise", she chuckled.


    "Okay, I will go to bed earlier. For I''m very tired in our battle. I might sleep instantly. You take care of our guests, okay?", she then pats his shoulders.


    "Good night, mom!", said Mael as he waved.


    Mael and his guests were left alone in the room.


    "As I was saying earlier, I could recommend you to", Vanz said, but he was again cut by Mael.


    "No. I want to be undercover while investigating", he said.


    "Ho! Ho!", Vanz shouted as he knows the perfect plan.


    "How about you change your appearance?", he said instantly.

 10 Farewell

    Mael was surprised when he heard a new revelation.


    "So do you want to change your appearance?", Vanz said to Mael.


    Mael grinned as he heard his amazing offer.


    "Yes of course! With that at hand, I will change my current plans, so how?", he asked to sir Vanz.


    "It''s just easy as using a skill! But first, we need the consent of Lady Erza. She might wanna know your face first before saying goodbye", he said to him.


    Mael touched his chin and was thinking.


    "It would be great if I change my name for that time being when I become an adventurer.", he said then concluded.


    "I will use father''s last name as my first name", he said.


    "Well, it''s concluded then. I better prepare, for tomorrow''s gonna be the day.", he said to Vanz.


    "Say your farewells to your mother by the meantime. You will not see them for a long time if you still have a long journey to travel by yourself", he said to Mael.


    "And by the way, do you know to identify a stone?", he asked to Vanz.


    "What stone?", Vanz asked.


    "This one", he said as he showed it to him.


    "Oh my goodness! This is a revival stone! It can revive and a person that has just passed on death''s door! But it will not heal any wounds so better use a health potion by that time.", he said to Mael.


    "Okay! Thanks! I didn''t know you''re skilled at many things! I might increase your salary", Mael said to Vanz.


    "Oh, no. No! It''s part of my service", he said.


    "By the way, why did you left the king''s side when you have a high salary and status?", he said as he sipped the tea in the table.


    "Well as you can see", he said as he turned serious.


    "I''m an assistant to the king in the past decades and I''m investigating the slave trade in the kingdom. I''m on an undercover mission and will infiltrate their hideout. But when I''m almost near to accomplish the mission. I''ve found the files of their persons involved and their activities. When I''m about to exit the hideout, they are all waiting for me at the outside! I was able to escape. Sadly, I didn''t hand it out to the king and fled to Golden Valley. We''ve been chased for days by the lord''s forces, then found an inn and settled there. I''ve been hiding for days, but this is what happened.", he said everything and then handed out the files.


    Mael received it and then puts it on his lap and reads it.


    "Oh my! These are all part of the illegal slave trade?", he gasped.


    "Yes, I''m sorry for causing you trouble", he said to him.


    "That''s fine. Anyone who touches Golden Valley will not be forgiven", he assured him.


    "What is your plan? Are you returning these to the king?", Mael asked.


    "I suppose you''re the right person to return it to the king. The problem is how?", Mael pondered.


    "Well, let''s discuss it on another time, shall we?", Mael said as he yawns.


    "Let''s sleep for tonight." He turned to the butler. "Maledic, please guide our guests to their rooms", he said to his guests.


    Mael and his guests go to their rooms and then he falls asleep. With the tiring night that has been engraved in his mind, he will never forget what happened in the Golden Valley.


    He waked up in the morning. He was wide awake. But his eyes were blurry, looking at the ceiling of his room.


    "It was morning already? It felt like only a minute! Well considering my fatigue last night then I will surely be tired", he said to himself.


    Mael washed in the bathtub and then he packed his clothes and equipment for his journey.


    "Oh, I can''t wait to become an adventurer! I will travel the whole continent of Lumia and close the gates and become the highest rank! I wonder what would it be like to be the highest rank then.", wondered Mael while he brings his backpack with him.


    Mael closed the door and walks to the living room. There he saw Sir Vanz already waiting for him on the couch.


    "Morning! Already packed? Quite excited are you?", greeted Sir Vanz to him.


    "Yes, of course! Where''s mom?", he said.


    "She''s still in her room", Vanz replied.


    When they are talking, Erza appeared like a ghost wearing a gorgeous gown together with Sir Maledic.


    "Here I am! You''ve waited for so long? Well, I can''t be wearing a normal dress on a special day!", she said then made a flying kiss to Mael.


    Mael pouted but then smiled bitterly.


    "Well let''s begin!", Mael said to Vanz after everyone arrived.


    Mael found a vacant space for the spell to be cast. They surrounded him and Vanz prepared a spell.


    "Good luck, son!", Erza cheered her son.


    "Face change!", shouted Vanz.


    Great light covered the room and Mael''s face is emitting a bright light.


    "Whoa!", Erza was shocked. "Your face! That''s manly! And badass looking!", she shouted


    She hugged him and then said, " Even if no girls will love you anymore, your mother will always be here"


    "Huh? What do you mean?", he said as he grabs the mirror that is handed by Maledic.


    "Your face has the perfect disguise! They will never even know that you''re Lord Mael at this point!", Vanz said as he waited for his praise.


    "Damn!", Mael said as he saw his face in the mirror. He has a black hair and an plain faced guy. His eyes were black and his teeth were jagged.


    "I''m ugly?", Mael said to Vanz.


    "It''s a perfect disguise! Like no girls will bother you and you will have your freedom! Haha haha hah!", he laughed vigorously.


    "Well, it''s not that bad! I can be a bad boy like this!", he said to them.


    "Right mom?", he said to her while looking.


    Erza began to cry while murmuring," My son will be forever single, I will not have a grandson like this! bring back his handsome cute face at once!"


    "Mom, don''t act like I''m gonna be forever like this. I can get back my face right? right, Vanz?", Mael said worriedly.


    Vanz is silent for a second.


    "Hey, Vanz! you hear me?", he said


    "Um, well there''s a problem, I can only do it once a day", he said while he scratches his hair.


    "What!?", Erza shouted.


    "It''s okay, mom. I will go to the capital later anyway. I want to at least enjoy the freedom of a free person. So, it''s okay", he said then he smiled.


    "Aaaaauuuuuwwww! My son is a big boy now! Let me hug you!", she said then she hugged him.


    "Well, Vanz I will leave the operations of our projects and constructions because you''re great at managing the realm being the right hand of the king. Don''t worry, I will bring these documents to the king myself and you will be safe here. And by the way, let''s write ourselves letters in-between months so that we will be communicated with each other", he said to Vanz.


    "And Maledic! Please protect mom in my place. Mom, I will go now! Please be healthy for my sibling", he said then he walks outside their mansion.


    "Write letters every day! Don''t get sick! Please be safe!", shouted Erza as they waved goodbye to mael


    Mael walks to the road without looking back and Erza is crying again.


    "Why does he have to play hero for everyone? He had to enjoying playing and reading books at his age and not to act like a Lord.", she says while crying.


    "As I can see, the young master is a person who cares for this country the most. I didn''t see anyone like him before and was inspired by his acts of selflessness. Even at the stake of his life, he still moves to save the weak. Everything is just a flower that passes away and withers, but he has made the garden bloom with just his essence. He is that flower, the one who changes everything and everyone around him.", Maledic explained.


    Mael travels to the roads and then met travelers that are going to the capital in the local traveling carriage from the capital to the town and back and forth. The terminal was dusty for there''s a person who diligently sweeps the street. When he arrived, the carriage was almost full and needs only one passenger.


    "I''m going to the capital, how much is the fare?", Mael asked.


    "One silver coin sir", the driver said.


    "Okay, here is my fare", he said as he handed a silver coin the driver.


    "Thank you, sir! Please sit at the back together with the others and we will be good to go!", he said cheerfully.


    Mael climbed the carriage and sat beside a well-built guy armed with a sword. He has brown hair that was well combed. Next to him was a cute ponytail haired girl that was colored black. To his front is a teen-ager boy that has leather armor that has a white hair. Beside him is a red haired teenage boy at his age with robes and staff.


    Mael was silently observing and they all looked with disdain at him.


    "Is it because of my looks?", he wondered.

 11 Adventurers!

    "Is it because of my face?" he asked himself. While he is sitting there, the mood is overbearing and he almost wants to get out.


    "Maybe I''m just not used to it, I will find courage as the time goes by", he said, while reassuring himself.


    The road was bumpy and he managed to get used to their gazes and he felt lighter. He unloaded his backpack and he stretched his back.


    "Um, can I ask you where will you go?", he said to the one who has a sword.


    "To the capital! we will head to the adventurers and report our accomplished quest. And you? where will you go?", he asked


    "I''m going to the capital too! and I want to become an adventurer like you guys! Can you guide me to your headquarters?", Mael said


    "Haha! you? become an adventurer? you''re still at the same age as my child!", he bellowed


    "Oh sorry! but I''m left with no choice but to be an adventurer because of poverty, I live to sustain the table we are eating and my mother is sickly", he said as he acts like starting to cry


    The big guy felt irritated then grabbed his clothes, he shouted to Mael saying,


    "Then don''t be an adventurer if you want to live and still see your mother! You didn''t know the feeling of watching your friends die eh!? The feeling of death while you''re scared witless?", he said


    "Yeah, I know it all! the feeling of your precious ones being attacked by a monster and you tried to save them but you''re too late? Seeing everyone being killed? Yeah, I know it all! So keep your hands away from my clothes if you don''t want it to be broken", Mael said to him


    "You bastard!", he shouted and tries to punch him


    "Gandar quit it! leave the child alone!", the girl beside him shouted to intervene


    Gandar removed his hands and then said, "You''re a lucky child! if not for her, I will surely teach you your place! Adventurers are not for kids like you, better keep that advice", he said as he grits his teeth in anger


    The girl approached him and then fixed his clothes while cleaning the dust.


    "Are you okay? are you hurt?", she asked


    "Emilda you''re overreacting again, It''s just normal intimidation like a test for the child if his resolve is strong to be an adventurer", the man who grabbed him said


    "Well, at least tell me beforehand! but what you''ve done is still unforgivable, so say sorry!", she said to him


    "No! an adventurer needs to be tested first and its a must!", he said as he folds his hands


    "Sigh, you''re beyond help! well at least let''s get acquainted first! I''m Emilda! A mage!", she said to Mael


    "Yo! I''m Glan, a priest!", the guy with robes and staff said as he raised his hands


    "I''m Gandar! the warrior of the team", the guy who grabbed him said with a bold voice


    The guy with a leather armor grabbed his dagger then said, "I''m Fuwn, a rouge"


    "I''m Kael! nice to meet you all! When I become an adventurer, you will be my seniors, please guide me thoroughly!", he said then bowed


    "Your name is unique! Welcome to the party Kael! we will be glad to guide you!", Emilda said cheerfully


    "Thank you for all your support!", he said to them


    While he is happily making friends, the carriage went to stop.


    Pak!


    "Ouch! hey driver! what''s your problem!", Gandar shouted


    "I''m sorry sirs, but we have a problem. There are giant wolves that are blocking the way! are you adventurers? I ask you to please defeat them if you can!", he pleaded to them


    The adventurers all came outside the carriage and saw four giant wolves in the way. One is six feet tall and the other three are five feet tall.


    "They are monsters that range to C+ rank monsters. Men battle formations!", Gandar commands them


    They immediately formed themselves; the Warrior is in the front, the rouge is with the priest and the mage is in the back. Based on their actions, their leader is Gandar. No wonder he acts like a big shot in their team. Mael is just in the sidelines and is totally ignored by them.


    "Mage! go ranged spells first! rouge, attack anything who wants to go to our mage and priest. Priest, you know what to do! I will defend the front line", he said


    Immediately, Emilda fired a ranged spell to one of the giant wolves.


    [Fireball!]


    A ball of fire blazed the giant wolf''s furs, the other two attacked in the front. Mael instantly moved to protect the priest, together with the rouge.


    "What are you doing here!? go back in the carriage", Glan said as he was surprised that Kael is just beside him


    "I can manage", Kael said to him briefly


    The two wolves attacked the warrior, he prepared his bastard sword then used a skill.


    [Bastard slash!]


    He swings it from his right towards his left.


    Bang!


    The sword slashed one of the beasts but the other one has passed through their Warrior tank''s defenses. It is nearing the priest then the rouge moved to defend him.


    [Critical slash!]


    He slashed the wolf in the belly when he ducked at the wolf''s attack. The wolf has been wounded but it didn''t stop its momentum when it attacked the priest.


    "Protect the priest!", shouted Gandar


    Bang!


    It was so fast and they didn''t even saw who did it. The wolf has been flown by the force of the impact. The wolf rolled to the ground three times.


    "Huh? what happened?", the priest said as he was shocked


    Gandar was shocked and then he pulled out the sword from the giant wolf''s body.


    "Who did it?", he asked but nobody replied


    "Huh? kid why are you here! you already want to die huh?", he said to Kael but his teammates shouted


    "Look out!", they all shouted


    He turned around and then saw the biggest one of them attacked. He tried to evade but he realized that he was a second late.


    "Oh no! I won''t make it!", he gasped


    As the enemy gets nearer, he saw that there was a silhouette so fast that his eyes can''t keep up. He punched it in the face and the direction of the enemy''s path immediately turned leftwards.


    Bang!


    The giant wolf slammed to the ground then stands up. Its feet are trembling and it is shaking its head due to dizziness.


    Kael immediately released his chains then wrapped it on the neck of the beast. He pulled it but it won''t budge so he launched himself to the air then landed on the back of its head. He pulled the chains tighter and the beast felt the choking of its windpipe. The monster began to thrash around and they saw him having difficulty in pulling the chains.


    "Go! let''s help him!", Gandar screamed and then launched an attack


    [Fireball!]


    [Bastard slash!]


    [Critical slash!]


    They altogether attacked the beast. The fireball landed on its face, the bastard slash slashed its right foot, and the critical slash hits its left foot.


    The wolf falls to the ground and then Kael tightened his grip, making the giant wolf helpless.


    The wolf struggled for its last breath and then it stopped its breathing. Kael released the chains from its neck and retracted it to his arms.


    "Is it finished?", Emilda asked


    "Yeah! We will extract their monster cores and fangs and sell them, then leave their bodies here", Gandar said


    "What? Do they have cores? damn! if I had known earlier!", Kael said as he realized how many monsters he had killed but leaving the monster''s core alone


    "It was confidential information that is only disclosed to the adventurers. By the way thanks! I didn''t know you can fight well! we will immediately recommend you to the guild master!", Gandar said to him


    "Thank you for saving me! I owe you my life thus I will treat you nicely! Ask and I will repay you in any way I can", Glan said to him


    "Let''s finish the extraction of anything that''s valuable and then leave this place immediately, their blood will attract more monsters", Gandar said to them


    Fuwn dissected the monsters and Kael is watching beside him. Being an observant is a hobby of Mael and he learns fast.


    "Let''s go back to the carriage before monsters will appear", Gandar said to them


    "Yes boss, we heard you", said Emilda


    They climbed the carriage and then left the place where they battled. Kael felt calmer as he was appreciated by his new friends and he smiled because they are safe.

 12 The Adventurers Guild

    He met some adventurers on the way then they were attacked. He moved outside to kill the monsters then saved the adventurers. He laughed in his mind. He didn''t expect to save them. He told them that he had plans on being an adventurer so they escorted him.


    The journey was calm and Kael slept on his couch to regain strength. By the time they were near to their destination, he was waked up by Emilda.


    "Kael, wake up! You''re gonna miss this once in a lifetime opportunity of your life", she said.


    "Huh? We''ve arrived?", he said, while still half asleep.


    "We''re entering the city gate! hurry up look!", Emilda shouted while pointing at the city gate.


    Kael squeezed his eyes and looked outside. There were many people walking on the pathways and carriages were lining up. From the distance, the gate was looming and had inscribed golden plated words saying, "The Glorious Kingdom of Dwight". It had a pillar made of jade and a gate that is opened wide.


    "Whoa! It''s so huge! Probably as high as a three-story building!", Kael said in amazement.


    "See told you!", she said to him.


    Kael was looking outside until the carriage stopped. He saw a checkpoint by the distance, then the carriage lined up also. The guards were inspecting each one and lets them pass after the checking.


    Kael moved back inside and said, "Hey, are they gonna let me pass even if I''m a new visitor?"


    "Well, calm yourself! Don''t worry. We''ve got your back!", said Gandar.


    "Adventurers can pass through the gate if you have an adventurer window card! Just let me do the talking. Adventurers-to-be will be allowed to enter the gate but they have to immediately go the adventurers guild so they will have an adventurer window card and they will be free to go anywhere they want!", Gandar said.


    "Oh really? That''s good news! I didn''t know it''s also an ID!", Kael said to him.


    They talked until they are the ones who will be checked.


    "Everyone, please go out from your carriages to be verified and checked. Please fall in line as you enter the gate.", the guard said to them.


    They walked outside and they are questioned if they have window cards. While Kael was the last one to be inspected.


    The guard had chainmail on his head and checked Kael''s belongings. He saw a pair of daggers, chains, a backpack, and a potion belt.


    "Your window card please", said the guard who checks their belongings.


    "Um. I still don''t have a window card, Sir", Kael said to the guard.


    "Huh? Then what are you gonna do in the city? Perhaps, are you a spy from another kingdom?", he said.


    "No, Sir", he immediately said.


    "You have a weapon and a potion belt. But has no window card?", he questioned.


    "I''m sorry, Sir! But he was with us! He wants to be an adventurer of the kingdom", Gandar said, then he smiled.


    "Oh! I''m sorry! Why didn''t you said so earlier!", the guard said as he chuckled.


    "My friend said that he will do the talking. So I didn''t say anything", Kael said as he folds his hands.


    "Ahahaha! Sorry about that! Well, everything''s settled. So can we go now?", Gandar said to him.


    "Of course! Of course! Well good luck on being an adventurer!", he said then he let them passed.


    Kael smiled and then he waved goodbye to the guards. They walked and immediately saw many people that were busy with their own lives: some are running to and fro, some are busy selling their goods, and some are just loitering around, hitting on beautiful ladies to find a girlfriend.


    "Whoa, it''s been a long time since I''ve seen this many people! As expected of a capital city!", Kael said.


    Everyone chuckled, then Glan asked.


    "Kael, mind you if I ask something?", he said.


    "Yeah, sure! What is it?", Kael replied.


    "What exactly are you? Are you a fighter? based on your movements, you''ve punched the wolf with just your hands and it was blown by the force. So tell me, are you a trained fighter?", he said to Kael.


    "Actually, I have our own training and I have no job class yet. It''s just a technique! No skill! No mana involved!", he said proudly.


    "What? It must be a joke, right? How can a mere normal person punch like that! And mind you, it''s not even a skill! how much more if it becomes a skill?", Gandar almost shouted.


    "Shush! your voice! don''t shout it, you idiot!", Kael said to him in a low voice.


    "Okay! Okay! But if you will become an adventurer, you must at least answer the question about your job class", he said but he paused.


    "Aha! I know exactly what is your class! A combatant! Well you see, a combatant is a job class that only relies on their weapon mastery and has no skills. They are the weakest job class and they are mostly a kingdom infantry or soldier. Knowing this, it will be hard to find a party to join and all but don''t worry, we will always welcome you if you''re not accepted by any party", Gandar said as he pats his shoulders.


    "It''s okay, I like to be alone by the way. Oh, I almost forgot, what are the tests that you''re gonna take?", Mael asked.


    "Well, it''s a combat aptitude, focus aptitude, and knowledge aptitude. The combat aptitude is the test where your combat strength is measured, specifically your strength, dexterity, and vitality. The focus aptitude is your focus, while knowledge aptitude is your non-combat skills like alchemy, enchanting, and monsters facts, etc.", Gandar explained.


    "Thanks for your guidance!", Kael said as he bowed down.


    "Your welcome! Oh, by the way! Were here!", Gandar said.


    They saw the guild banner and the building was huge. It was well decorated and it''s design was explicitly planned by the best architects. It''s design was similar to a small castle that was painted with grey and brown.


    "The Adventurers Guild! My dream place!", Kael shouted.


    "We will be guiding you to the registering desk so don''t worry", said Emilda.


    "Now let''s go!", shouted Grandar.


    They entered the hall and there were many adventurers already inside. Some were picking their quests on the mission bulletin board. Some were receiving their rewards. some were registering.


    While they walked to the registering desk, they saw a kid almost the same age as him that conversing with the receptionist.


    "Fill this form, then proceed to the testing room. You will be tested without company, but just you and your examiner only. Fill up your form on that table for I have guests", she said to him.


    The kid moved to the table and Kael looked at him in the face. They looked at each other, then the kid just passed them.


    "Hey, Kael! Did you see him? He''s just the same age as you!", Fuwn said to him.


    "Yeah, I know! That was obvious!", he replied.


    They arrived at the desk and the receptionist clapped three times.


    "What do we have here? Escorting a new recruit? Better not disappoint me if you may", she said as she folded her arms, surveying Kael from head to toe.


    "We won''t disappoint you! He can manage to fight alongside us!", Emilda said as she assured her.


    "Well If you are pretty confident that he is good enough to pass the test, then I will give you the form. If he can pass, then he will be the youngest adventurer in the history of Lumia. As well as that kid over there.", she said, while looking at the other kid at the table.


    "Thank you very much for your consideration!", said Glan as he bowed to her.


    "We will be waiting outside Kael, you''re on your own for now. Join that young boy at the same age and make him your friend first. Okay?", Emilda said to him.


    "Okay. It will be alright", he said to her.


    Gandar''s party walks away and Kael sits beside the young boy. Well, he felt that talking to strangers at the same age is different from talking to adult strangers.


    "Are you already finished?", Kael asked.


    "No, just my name. I''m stuck at my job class. Do you have an idea what job class that uses basic attacks? Not skills or not what?", he asked.


    "It''s what the adventurers said to me earlier! It''s called a combatant! Like the ordinary soldiers that have no job class skills!", Kael said to him.


    "Really! Thanks! By the way, I''m Mael Kelvin! Nice to meet you!", he said as they shake hands.


    "Kael Melvin! a pleasure to meet you!", Kael said.


    "I''m gonna fill it up first", Kael said to him.


    "Okay, no problem!", Kelvin said to him.


    Kael saw the form and fill it up.


    It looked like this.


    .....


    Registering Form For Adventurers


    Profile


    Name:__________________


    Age:_____________


    Address:____________


    Job-class:_____________


    Status of Living:_______________


    Character statistics(to be filled up by the examiner)


    Strength:______


    Dexterity:______


    Vitality:______


    Focus:______


    Character level:(can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Status points: (can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Private data(can be only seen after window card is obtained)


    Talents:________


    Techniques:_______


    knowledge:______


    Job class section(can only be seen after window card is obtained)


    Job class:_________


    Job class skills:_________


    Skill points:_________


    ...

 13 Combat Aptitude

    Registering Form For Adventurers


    Profile


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Job-class: Combatant


    Status of Living: Villager


    Character statistics(to be filled up by the examiner)


    Strength:______


    Dexterity:______


    Vitality:______


    Focus:______


    Character level:(can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Status points: (can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Private data(can be only seen after window card is obtained)


    Talents:________


    Techniques:_______


    Knowledge:_______


    Job class section(can only be seen after window card is obtained)


    Job class:_________


    Job class skills:_________


    Skill points:_________


    ...


    He filled up the profile, then left the character stats.


    "Are you finished?", Kael asked Kelvin.


    "Yeah!", he replied.


    "We will pass this to the receptionist then!", Kael said.


    They walked to the receptionist, then they handed the form to her.


    "Hmm, okay good! Now proceed to the testing grounds. There''s someone who will instruct you about your test. Bring these to them and your good to go!", she said as she handed out the form.


    Kael and Kelvin both took it and then looked at each other.


    "Let''s go!", said Kelvin.


    They went to the exit of the hall and there''s a signage that says, "To the testing grounds, this way!"


    They went outside then saw a separate building just for the testing grounds. It has a building and high walls; the building is for the knowledge aptitude test and focus aptitude test, and the open field that is surrounded by walls is for the combat aptitude.


    "Is that it?", they shouted.


    "Let''s go!", Kelvin said to him.


    They ran towards the entrance and they saw many more aspiring adventurers that were gathering themselves. There was a middle-aged man that is standing in the center of the crowd that is waiting for something.


    "Hey are we late?", Kael asked.


    "No, maybe the proctor is still waiting for the applicants to be numerous so the instruction is said only once", Kelvin said.


    "Oh is that it? might as well hurry up", Kael said.


    They hurriedly ran to the crowds and the proctor starts to give instruction.


    "Time''s up! Okay, aspiring adventurers! listen up! I''m gonna give the instructions once, so better hear me out! The tests are taken separately and you will take the tests in private. There are only three persons allowed to enter the testing grounds; one to the focus aptitude, one to the combat aptitude, and one to the knowledge aptitude. I will collect the forms and choose who will be entering. Okay hand me the forms", he said to them.


    They handed the forms and then Kael and Kelvin go back to their positions.


    The proctor then immediately called out their names.


    "Igelbert Johnson, to the combat aptitude test. Hermans Cain, to the focus aptitude test. Drew Barrys, to the knowledge aptitude test.", he said while giving them back the forms.


    "Give that to the test coordinators before the tests start", he said to them and then continued his work.


    Kelvin and Kael wait for their turn and then.


    "Kael Melvin! to the combat aptitude test. Mael Kelvin! to the focus aptitude test", he announced.


    "See you bud!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "See you later!", Kelvin said as they go separate ways.


    They received the forms and went inside. They walked towards the gate and there were three doors. At the front is to the combat aptitude test, on the left is the knowledge aptitude test, and the right is the focus aptitude test. Kael opened the door at the front and saw an open field that had a weapon rack beside it. There was a man that is standing in the middle of the grounds, then smiled.


    Kael approached the proctor and the wind blew the dust on the ground. Kael walked nearer and nearer and saw that the proctor had an eyeglass and he wears a grey formal suit with a neck-tie in his neck. He had gloves and black shoes. He fixed his spectacles, then introduced himself as Kael got closer.


    "I''m Belmund, the Combat coordinator of the adventurers guild. Please hand me the form then I will tell you our test", he said.


    Kael gave the from and Belmund received it. He then gave the instructions.


    "The test is about dueling. I will observe your strength, vitality, and dexterity by these glasses called ''window eyeglass''. It will measure your stats and that depends on what your performance is!", he said to him.


    "Now choose any weapon you want to use and use your skills if you have one


    I will wait in the dueling place for a minute. Remember, you can only take this test once a year so chose the best weapon you have. The requirement is to make me recognize you, but the purpose is still to measure your stats, so don''t worry if you can''t defeat me. That''s all and one minute starts now.", he paused, then walks to the dueling place.


    Kael walked to the weapon wrack and saw many weapons. From swords, axe, hammer, daggers, mace, to spears, shields, bows, crossbows, and two-handed weapons.


    He had a hard time choosing one, because he knows the pros and cons of every weapon.


    He thought about choosing the shield when he remembered how his father fought with the shield. He glanced at the proctor and he didn''t even have a plan on equipping a weapon.


    "Hmm, maybe a Fighter class. Splendid! Let''s see how far will father''s unarmed techniques can take me", he said to his mind.


    One minute was near to end when he decided to fight unarmed. He walked to the dueling place without weapon, then the proctor smiled.


    "So you''ve discovered my job class! Yes, I am a fighter and I can eventually block any weapons with my hands using these gloves. So you''ve decided to fight me unarmed? A logical choice! Now if you''ll excuse me. Please put down your backpack first. It will be on the way if we fight head-on", he said


    "Oh thank you!", he said as he puts down his backpack to the side of the dueling place.


    "Hmm. Applicant Kael, isn''t it? You''re a combatant! Lives at the golden valley. Age was 13, quite young, and wants to do the dangerous job of adventurers. Well, let'' see if you are worthy to called adventurer. So let''s proceed to the test?", he said as he reads the form.


    "Okay, Sir", Kael said to him.


    Belmund then touched his eyeglasses before initiating his battle stance.


    "Measure strength, vitality, and dexterity activate", Belmund said as the eyeglass glowed for a second.


    "Here we go!", Belmund shouted to Kael.


    They moved towards each other then punches together. The moment their fists clashed, it produces a banging sound. Their momentum stopped and in split second, Belmund unleashed a skill.


    One inch punch!


    He unleashed his skill and Kael''s hands were blown away. Kael steps back a few times and shaking his hands. This skill was multiplying your strength by two folds in the split-second time and it gets stronger if the skill point is applied. It has a cooldown and can''t be used repeatedly.


    Kael felt the pain, but he stretches his hands to relieve it.


    "Ouch! Ouch! There''s really a great difference between techniques and skills. I really need to attend the academy in the future", he said in his mind.


    "Again!", Belmund shouted to him.


    Kael then posed his fighting stance then attacks with a series of punches. Belmund deflects it using the "Gentle Palm" skill. It emits shockwave of mana that permeates your muscles thus making it numb and has a similar feeling of a strained muscle.


    "Ouch! Ouch! What is wrong with that skill?", Kael shouted as he rolls to the ground in pain.


    "Hey! Help me up! Don''t just stand there! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!", Kael bellowed.


    "Oh, I''m sorry. My sadistic personality has been triggered by your blood lust", he said as he applied mana to his sprained muscles.


    "There you go! It''s back to normal", he said after he finished.


    Belmund grabbed his hands and helped him to stand up. Kael removed the dust on his clothes and finished it after a while.


    "Thanks! so what''s the result?", he said to Belmund.


    "Your base strength is decent and also your dexterity and vitality are above other kids of your age. I will write immediately the results", he said as he picked his pen from his pocket and writes to the form.


    "Your next test will be the knowledge aptitude test, good luck!", he said then handed out the form.


    ....


    Registering Form For Adventurers


    Profile


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Job-class: Combatant


    Status of Living: Villager


    Character statistics(to be filled up by the examiner)


    Strength: 20


    Dexterity: 25


    Vitality: 25


    Focus:______


    Character level:(can only be seen after the window card is obtained)


    Status points: (can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Private data(can be only seen after window card is obtained)


    Talents:________


    Techniques:_______


    Knowledge:_______


    Job class section(can only be seen after window card is obtained)


    Job class:_________


    Job class skills:_________


    Skill points:_________


    ...

 14 Final results

    "Thank you, Sir Belmund! I will go now!", Kael said as he waved goodbye to him.


    He grabbed his backpack, then left the combat aptitude testing area. He walks to the exit gate, opening it.


    Creak!


    The gate produced an irking sound, then he saw Kelvin outside.


    "Hey! You''ve been finished as well?", said Kael.


    "Yeah! So how is it?", Kelvin asked.


    "He''s tough! Beware because he''s a fighter!", Kael said.


    "Really! Then wish me luck! I will go now!", Kelvin said to him then walked inside.


    Kael then walked towards the knowledge aptitude test, then opened the gate. He saw an office that had books and a desk on the center, the room was arranged by an interior designer and a bit luxurious on sight.


    The proctor was wearing also a formal suit and has a name engraved on his desk that says, "Ronald Herts, Knowledge aptitude proctor"


    Kael approached him and then the proctor spoke.


    "Please have a seat, Sir. May I have your form?", he said.


    "Here, Sir", Kael said as he handed it to Sir Ronald.


    Sir Ronald recieved it and then reads his name.


    "Kael Melvin, nice name! I will test all knowledge that you know and for that I will just verify it with my "truth detector", at least recite your knowledge and say it out loud in front of me and if the truth detector confirms your honesty then I will include it to your knowledge skills. I will activate first the truth detector then you can recite. You got it?", he asked.


    "Yes sir!", Kael said cheerfully.


    "Okay good! now let''s start! truth detector activate!", he said then the device glowed .


    "Okay I will start! I have knowledge about enchanting, monster almanac, mana cultivation, Lumian races, blacksmithing, crafting, herbalist, survival, and alchemy that is all", he said.


    He clapped his hands then he smiled.


    "Deactivate!", he commanded the device.


    "Okay since the truth device didn''t reacted, then your recited knowledge will be put to your list", he said then writes his skills to the knowledge lists.


    He handed the form and then Kael watched his knowledge list has been filled up.


    .....


    Registering Form For Adventurers


    Profile


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Job-class: Combatant


    Status of Living: Villager


    Character statistics(to be filled up by the examiner)


    Strength: 20


    Dexterity: 25


    Vitality: 25


    Focus:______


    Character level:(can only be seen after the window card is obtained)


    Status points: (can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Private data(can be only seen after window card is obtained)


    Talents:________


    Techniques:_______


    Knowledge: enchanting


    herbalist


    mana cultivation


    crafting


    blacksmithing


    alchemy


    survival


    monster almanac


    lumian races


    Job class section(can only be seen after window card is obtained)


    Job class:_________


    Job class skills:_________


    Skill points:_________


    ...


    "Congrats! you''re a genius! You''re a one in a thousand! No! In a million!", Ronald exclaimed.


    "It''s not that I''m a genius, but I am only reading ever since I''ve learned to read. Anyways thank you sir! I will go now to the focus aptitude test and finish this exam", Kael said.


    He held his form and happily looking at it. He exits the gate then heard loud banging sounds in the combat testing grounds, he then thought that it is Kelvin that''s fighting behind it.


    Bang! bang! bang!


    "I wonder what''s going on behind it?", he said then entered the focus aptitude testing building.


    The inside of the building is empty with just torches on the walls with a large magical device in the center. There''s the proctor that was sitting in her desk beside the magical device. The magical device was like a small pillar, then has a floating round glass on top of it. The proctor was a middle-aged woman, who had a white hair that is combed perfectly. She had a white suite and a white hat on the top of her head.


    "Hand me the form please", she said monotonously.


    "Here ma''am", Kael said as he handed the form.


    "Kael Melvin yes? Hmm, you actually have decent fighting capability. Well there''s a genious recently who has fifty in his focus aptitude. He can be a good mage or skiller in the future. Can you overcome him?", she said while raising her eyebrows.


    "Does she want to challenge me to overcome whoever that person is?", he said in his mind while grinning.


    "Yes ma''am, I will try my best", Kael said as he bows down.


    "Trying your best now is not enough to make your results change even a bit. Now now! Let''s go to the focus measurement device and then see your potential, shall we?", she said then she walks beside the device.


    "Place your hands on the round glass and then focus yourself to apply mana to the orb, it will create a floating number after you focused until your limits and then we are finished! simple isn''t it?", she said.


    "I''m gonna put my hands and then focus? Okay, that''s simple!", he said.


    Kael puts it in the floating glass and then focused.


    "Focus, focus. All you have to do is empty your mind and let out your mana", she instructed him.


    Kael applied his mana and the orb is slowly glowing.


    "Splendid! Now continue to apply mana", she instructed him.


    Kael applied mana and the numbers are going up.


    "Twenty-nine, thirty-five, fifty-two, sixty-seven! seventy-five! you have seventy-five points for the focus aptitude! I will write it immediately!", she said then hurriedly writes it to his form.


    She sits down and then looked to Kael seriuosly while she puts her hands together.


    "Why is she looking at me like that? Is there something wrong with seventy-five?", he said in his mind.


    "Let me tell you why focus is made to be a single test while the strength, dexterity, and vitality is put to only one test. Why? Because focus is influencing your mana points, magic damage, mana regeneration, skill cooldown, slight increase on dexterity, and casting speed. Your strength is influencing your physical damage and critical damage, as well as slight increase on vitality. Your dexterity is influencing your evasion, critical chance, movement speed and attack speed, and accuracy. While vitality is your health points, health regeneration, stamina, and resistances. Strength, vitality, and dexterity can be measured by window eyeglass but focus measurement device can only measure your focus. Now you understand?", she explained


    "Yes ma''am, thank you for that knowledge", Kael said to her.


    "Tsk! Don''t thank me yet kid! It''s just the basics of basics", she said.


    "Here''s your form, then give it to the receptionist who gave you this form beforehand. She''s waiting there. Now hurry up, because there''s still many who wants to take the tests", she said.


    Kael took his form and then his focus has a seventy-five points written in it.


    .....


    Registering Form For Adventurers


    Profile


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Job-class: Combatant


    Status of Living: Villager


    Character statistics(to be filled up by the examiner)


    Strength: 20


    Dexterity: 25


    Vitality: 25


    Focus: 75


    Character level:(can only be seen after the window card is obtained)


    Status points: (can be seen after window card is obtained)


    Private data(can be only seen after window card is obtained)


    Talents:________


    Techniques:_______


    Knowledge: enchanting


    herbalist


    mana cultivation


    crafting


    blacksmithing


    alchemy


    survival


    monster almanac


    lumian races


    Job class section(can only be seen after window card is obtained)


    Job class:_________


    Job class skills:_________


    Skill points:_________


    ...


    He walks outside, then he saw that Kelvin was also finished.


    "Hey are you finished? let''s go!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    They headed back inside, then saw a big difference from before. They saw larger quantity of adventurers in the hall.


    The both of them went through the crowd and then succesfully arrived to the receptionist from before.


    "Here is our forms ma''am!", Kael said to her sa he gave their forms to her


    The receptionist glanced at their forms and said, "As expected to young brats that has weak stats!"


    Kael and Mael looked at each other and smiled. She nearly crumpled their forms but she looked again.


    "Whoa! who''s form is this! I will blacklist you if you forged this numbers yourselves! are you making a fool of me?", she said to them.


    "If you want to verify it first, then may I suggest that you go to the proctors first, ma''am", Kael said to her.


    "Yes! that would be best!", she said agitatedly.


    She walked hurriedly to the testing areas while Kael and Kelvin sits at the chairs.


    "Hey can I ask? what is your character stats'' numbers?", asked Kelvin.


    "Twenty on strength, twenty-five on dexterity, twenty-five on vitality, and seventy-five on focus", he whispered on his ears.


    "Seventy-five! really?", Kelvin almost shouted but managed to hold back.


    "Yeah! and you?", Kael asked.


    "I have fifty in all of my stats!", he said in a low voice.


    "What!? fifty? you mean your strength and others are all fifty?", he said to him.


    "Shush! lower your voice!", he said.


    They were talking then the receptionist arrived sweating. She walks while glancing at them.


    "That was fast!? Did she dashed like a short distance runner?", Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Yep, maybe", he replied.


    "You! Two of you! Please wait for your results as we print you window cards immediately. Please forgive my rudeness. Now excuse me", she said.


    "Did she underestimated us a while ago?", Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Yeah, maybe she verified it herself", Kael replied.


    They waited for an hour and then the other applicants are finished. They are waiting for the results then the receptionist gave them cards. It has their name, adventurer rank, and an empty box.


    "Please put a drop of blood in the box to register it as yours, you are then registered as adventurers! "


    She approached the two and then said, "Actually you two are the youngest adventurers so far! And the top examinees of this day! glad to welcome you aboard!"


    She bows to them and then walks away. Kael and Kelvin pierced their thumb and then blood oozed from their skin.


    They puts their thumb marks to the box and then the card glows. Letters then appeared below their names and it says, "Please say window to display your character window"


    Kael then said the magic word.


    "Window"


    A floating window appeared but only Kael can see it.


    ....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Mael Kael/Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Lord/villager


    Adventurer rank: Rank G


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 12


    Character Statistics


    Strength (20)


    - physical damage


    - critical damage


    - slight influence on vitality


    Dexterity (25)


    -accuracy


    -attack speed


    -movement speed


    -critical chance


    -evasion


    Vitality (25)


    -stamina


    -stamina regen.


    -health


    -health regen.


    -resistance


    Focus (75)


    -magic damage


    -mana


    -mana regen.


    -cast speed


    -cooldown reduction


    -slight influence on dexterity


    Stats points: 36


    Talent: Memories of the past


    Weapon and unarmed master


    Techniques: A. weapons


    sword(master)


    spear(master)


    bow and crossbow(master)


    dagger(master)


    two handed(master)


    shield(master)


    chains(master)


    B. unarmed


    offensive(master)


    defensive(master)


    aura(master)


    Knowledge: enchanting(master)


    herbalist(master)


    mana cultivation(master)


    crafting(master)


    blacksmithing(master)


    alchemy(master)


    survival(master)


    monster almanac(master)


    lumian races(master)


    Job class section


    Job class: combatant


    Job class level: none


    Job class skills: none


    Skill points: 12

 15 The Ugly Duckling Inn

    "Wow! Amazing! So this is it? The so-called window card?", Kael exclaimed.


    Kael smiled and Kelvin, on the other hand, looks on his own and was happy. The other adventurers also checked theirs and were astonished.


    "Attention everyone! we have an announcement for the top examinees for this afternoon. This day had top qualifiers on both exams and another one who overwhelmed the exam on combat. Breaking the record of the past new applicant''s records", The receptionist said to them.


    Shush! shush!


    Kael and Kelvin made a gesture of shushing that means they don''t want to be recognized.


    "But they don''t want to be recognized so let''s give them their privacy. Let''s just clap our hands to them.", she said.


    The crowd gave a round of applause to them but they don''t know who it is.


    Kael and Kelvin then walked away from the crowd and then bumped to a large man that is six feet tall. He has a full silver-plated armor and he carries a helm on his left arm. He has many scars on his face and is a sign of his many life-threatening past battles. The man looked at them as a ferocious beast.


    "Be careful kid, watch your direction, or I will kick you from where you stand."


    Kael and Kelvin said their sorry for their disturbance and then walk to the exit of the guild. While they are apologizing, the person behind them shouted," The third strongest in rank A! rank-A number three, Helgurt Leomurds! Character level 42, Paladin level 23!


    "Don''t block his path!", shouted one of the people in the crowd


    Kael and Kelvin gave him space and they hurriedly went to the exit. While they are near the exit, the crowd then honored the man they had bumped.


    "Helgurt Leomurds, I will remember your name", Kael said to himself


    They went outside and his new friends are waiting outside.


    "What took you so long! well, how''s it?", Emilda said


    "The exam is pretty hard but we passed, by the way, this is my new friend Kelvin, Kelvin my friends", Kael said to them


    Kelvin shook hands to each one of them and then he said goodbye.


    "I will go now! I''m gonna find an inn first while there''s still time. It''s going to be dark later, see you soon!", he said while waving his hands


    Kelvin went on his own and Kael and his friends went the opposite direction.


    "So, let''s find a place first for you to stay at night. How about the ugly duckling in?", Glan said to Emilda


    "That''s great! well let''s make a tour first in the town so you will find the key places to visit on your own", Emilda said to him


    "That''s great thanks!", Kael replied


    They visited the blacksmiths, weapon and armor shops, tavern, consumables shop, and the market. The sun is finally setting and the sky is painted with red; they finished making a tour and Kael said goodbyes to them.


    "Thank you, guys! I will be on my way!", Kael said to them


    "Good luck! see you next time around!", Emilda said to him as she waved her hands


    Kael is on the outside of the ugly duckling in and he saw a wooden plank hanging by the door side, it has a resemblance of a duck that floats on the water.


    He opened the door and saw a few tables for eating and some are eating their orders. He saw a middle-aged girl that has a handkerchief wrapped on her forehead and has a simple dress of a commoner. She is wiping her mug and Kael walked towards her.


    "One room for a single person please!", Kael said to her


    "Oh! what do we have here! a new visitor! Because you''re a kid then you can have our smallest room that is made specifically for you. That will be five coppers per night.", she said to him


    "A whole week please!", Kael said as he handed down a single silver coin


    She grabbed the coins and then gave him a key.


    "Room number six, second floor. As a special offer, the meals are included in your fee. We serve the best meals if you compare it to other inns. Well, ask me if you need anything okay!", she said


    "Thanks!", Kael said to her then grabbed the keys


    He walks to the second floor and saw that everything is made of wood, from the floor to the stairs and doors.


    "Ten, nine, eight and then there it is, number six.", he said in his mind


    He inserted the key to the door and then he saw a room that is simple with just a bed and a mini table with a lamp. It has also a window beside the bed that the rays of the sun are kissing the bed.


    He unloads his backpack and then checked his belongings. He has three pairs of clothes, various potions (health, poison, paralyzing, mana, and resist abnormal status, strength, speed, diving potion), floating lantern, two daggers, chains, and a pocket that has a ten gold coins and twenty silver coins.


    He unloads his backpack and then arranged his belongings to the bed. He wants to enchant his backpack with "[Increase maximum load]" and "[Weightlessness]".


    He focused his mana and then visualizes the enchantment. He charged his mana and then released it to the backpack.


    Swoosh!


    The backpack is imbued with the enchantment. He then puts everything to his backpack and then felt it''s weightlessness. There''s still space within the backpack to spare.


    He unloads his backpack and then removes his leather armor. He prepared to wash; the comfort room is made of wood and there is a bathtub. He washed and washed his clothes.


    After thirty minutes, he feels the freshness of the air that touches his skin. He wears his clothes that is like a normal citizen. He walks downstairs and sees that there are new faces with their weapons.


    He walks to the counter and orders his food.


    "What is your menu this night?", Kael asked


    "Grilled chicken with mead!", she said


    "Okay, I will be there in that table", he said as he points it to the table located at the corner of the building


    Kael walks passing the tables and the crowd is looking at him. They are looking to a kid that they didn''t know and they assumed that he is just a lost kid.


    Kael waited for minutes and he observes that the persons are who are looking at him are holding back their emotions until one man came to him and sits in his front. He has earrings and a scar on his face and carries a two-handed bastard sword with full plated iron armor. A warrior to be exact.


    "Hey everyone, this is the one that I''m telling you! he wants to be an adventurer like us! and if you can see, he still has milk in his mouth. A green leaf to be an adventurer? who do you think you are a kid? you won''t survive in battle in just a minute", he said to him


    "How about a duel? If you win I will be your lap dog and if I win, you will become my lap dog. How''s that?", he said to him


    "Huh? are you crazy? heh! I''m gonna beat that crap out of you!", he said to Kael


    "Let''s go outside first!", Kael said to him


    They went outside and Kael only has his fist. But the enemy has a bastard sword. Kael made his fighting stance and the enemy also.

 16 Duel

    They walked outside of the streets while the street lamps illuminated the area. Mael is on his fighting stance and the crowd is cheering for his opponent.


    Francis! Francis! Francis!


    The crowd cheered, then Francis smiled like a greedy person.


    He raised his hands and then he said, "Silence!"


    They became silent then he said, "If you want to step down from our duel and concede, then you can go away not being harmed, child! I will give you your last chance!", he blurted out


    "Stop talking nonsense! Come at me if you want!", he said to Francis


    "Bastard child! You dare!", he said


    Ha!!!!


    Francis launched his attack.


    "[Bastard slash!]"


    Francis launched his skill. Kael launched too but he ducks at the right time.


    "[Gentle fist!]"


    Kael copied Belmund''s moves and strikes at his shoulders.


    Francis stepped back a little but he''s not hurt at all. Kael retreats a few steps and Francis smashed his sword to his direction.


    "[Ground slam!]", Francis smashed.


    The dirt blew all over the place and Francis can''t see clearly. In the dust, he saw a mirage of a child so he strikes it. But in his dismay, all he slashed was thin air.


    He then saw an upcoming punches from the dust from his left.


    "[Hard fist]"


    Three punches launched to his face and he was stunned. Kael then sweeps his feet and then Francis stumbled. He crawls to the ground and then he grabs his sword.


    "How dare you!", Francis bellowed.


    "[Might of perseverance!]", Francis initiated a skill.


    This warrior buff skill will give him plus 10 on speed and strength for a ten second period.


    "[Sword slam!]", he dashed towards Kael then Slammed his sword.


    If you are hit, you will receive three times the damage of the sword and then stunned for a second.


    Kael evades but he was struck by the dirt and stones.


    Huk!


    He was struck in the shoulders and his left foot. He rolled over and Francis didn''t even gave him time to breath. Francis again slammed his sword to him.


    Kael made some distance and then gathered his force. With what the situation has transpired, he needs to be wise.


    Francis again launched his attacks and swings again horizontally. Kael retreats to evade his strike and he dashed forwards.


    He punched him on the face with a "hard fist", and then "gentle fist" on the stomach.


    Guhk!


    Francis let out a shriek as he felt his face.


    "How dare you! don''t underestimate me kid!", he shouted.


    Kael gestures for him to attack while he hops three times.


    Francis attacks but he felt that his buff was finished. He was moving slower this time and Kael has the upper hand.


    He moved angrily and he swung his sword rapidly. Kael was dodging then he tackled his sword aiming for his sword to be disarmed.


    Without a hint of hesitation, he jumped forward and then grabbed his sword and flicked it upwards.


    Francis was shocked that his sword has flung towards the sky. Kael then launched his flurry of attacks.


    Kael punched his face and then turns to execute a round house kick. His kick was blocked by Francis then he moved back.


    "You really wanna die, huh? So be it!", he said as he began to fight back.


    Francis launched his attacks and Kael deflects it with "[Gentle fists]". His mana release was slow, but it will take effect later on.


    Kael dodged his punch then he punched him with "[Hard fist]" on his belly. Francis bellowed but Kael released "gentle fists" on the other side of his belly.


    "What are you doing silly boy? do you think that will take me down? huh?", he said to Kael.


    Kael estimated that he has great vitality and the effects of "[Gentle fist]" is minimal in his case.


    "Well I''m gonna switch to aura instead", Kael said confidently.


    Ha!!!


    He punched him but, his hands is blocked by Francis. The fists was locked by Francis so Kael had no choice but to copy Belmund''s [One-inch punch].


    [One-inch punch!]


    He initiates a skill and then released the "force". With all the force that he had gathered, he had tripled the damage of his punch.


    Francis was blown to the ground and he rolled on the dust three times. Kael punched and kicked him several times in great force. Kael approached him but he was blown near his sword.


    "Ha! Ha! You''re finished now!", he said as he dashed forwards.


    "[Rage slash!]", he shouted.


    He swings his sword faster than before and Kael was evading it in just hairs breath. This skill can only be used when the warrior is suffering great pain and this skill will be activated.


    Haaaaahhhh!!!


    He shouted like never before. Kael deflects his swings with "[Gentle fists]" and sometimes lands a few punches.


    "What''s wrong kid? You won''t last long if you react like that!", Francis bellowed.


    "You can''t defeat me with just halfbaked attacks, Uncle.", Kael said to him.


    "Making me lose my focus, eh? Let''s see if you can last long!", Francis said to him.


    "Wether you win or lose, it doesn''t matter. Because you''re gonna lose for sure! Hahahaha!", Francis chuckled.


    Kael felt irritated, he didn''t met such a boastful person as boastful like him. His dignity and pride is on the line. Kael began to understand his opponent, he had no idea what his current opponent can do.


    "Chains release!"


    He released his chains, then wrapped it on his arms. He gathered aura in the process.


    "Get ready, Francis! I will beat you up for sure!", Kael shouted at him.


    He dashed, then Francis swings his sword.


    [Bastard slash!]


    Kael blocked with his arms and then slides it. He slams his right arm to his enemy with all his force.


    Bang!


    He released his chains from his arms, then whips Francis with his chains.


    Ting!


    The sword sounded as their weapons met. Kael retracted his chains, then wrapped it in his arms. Francis then approached him and he slashed his sword.


    Kael blocks it with his chains as he steps back from his enemy.


    "What''s the problem? You said you''re gonna beat the crap out of me, eh?", Francis intimidated.


    "You wanna taste my chains so badly then so be it!", Kael said to him.


    He released his chains, then whipped him rapidly.


    Rapid slash! Chains edition!


    Ting! Ting! Ting! Ting! Ting! Ting!


    Francis barely defended from his flurry of blows and his plated armor had been caving-in from his attacks.


    "Stop! I said stop!", the mysterious man said to Kael.


    Kael stopped and then Francis collapsed to the ground.


    "Health potion! Quick!", he said to Kael


    Kael then passed the health potion to him and then he helped Francis to drink it.


    Kuhuk! Kuhuk!


    Francis coughed up, then he opened his eyes.


    "Did I lose!?", he asked.


    "Yep, badly!", replied the man to him.


    "No! I can still fight!", Francis said to him.


    "Where is he?", he asked.


    "He left just a while ago. Maybe he''s asleep now", he said to Francis.


    Kael went upstairs and then slept in his room. He had a tiring day but he felt accomplished.


    "Tomorrow is another day", he said.

 17 Blacksmith shop

    It was early in the morning and the sun was rising. The people woke up early and they were busy with their own lives. Kael is watching from the window side of his room and looking at the people pass by from the ugly duckling inn.


    "Let''s be early this time and purchase what I needed ahead of time", he said to himself.


    He changed his clothes to a commoner''s wear with a jacket at the top. The cold wind blew as he exited the inn and he felt the refreshing air from his nose.


    He will visit the blacksmiths of the capital and wants to make a custom made weapon, as well as weights for his arms and legs.


    He traveled the path towards the blacksmith''s district and stared at the skies clouded with smokes from their burning charcoals due to smithing. He saw lesser people compared to yesterday and he thought that it will be fun to jog towards it.


    He jogged and jogged to the district until his sweat trickled on his spine and face. Minutes later, he saw a humble blacksmith store that was quite old if Kael observes it. There''s mold on the roof, the signboard was rusty saying, "Kjelg blacksmith store"


    He entered the shop and saw that the surroundings were dusty, it is a combination of weapons and armors that were displayed and arranged well. Kael saw that these weapons and armors have no enchantments at all. He saw a man that is selling his goods is a sturdy, well-built person. Maybe it was because of his blacksmithing day and night. He has a mustache and he wears an apron he used when blacksmithing.


    "What can I do for you sir?", his voice was not coming from an old man but a man of his prime.


    "I want some custom made weapon and some other accessories like weights sir!", Kael replied


    "If you want a custom made then it depends on the materials and the labor costs", the blacksmith replied


    "Do you have a blueprint?", Kael asked


    "Oh, I have! wait a minute sir!", he said then he hurriedly went to his crafting room.


    He immediately went outside and he brought three blank blueprints.


    "Here sir!", he said as he handed down the papers.


    Kael draws from scratch his new weapon called "sword shield". It has a size of a shield but it has a bladed edge like a sword. Like any other swords, it has a handle used to slash but its handguard has a handle when used to shield or block the enemy''s attacks.


    "This will be the handle if you switch to defend and this one here if you switch to offense got it?", Kael explained the uses of his weapon.


    "That is new to my sensation, I haven''t seen one in my life!", the blacksmith said.


    "By the way!", Kael then grabs another parchment of blueprint.


    "This is the image of my weights, The heavy metal was located inside the leather and was secured not to fall-off by a strap. It has two sets, the arms, and the legs", he finished explaining and then handed down the blueprint to the blacksmith


    "Okay that''s easy! For the sword shield is twenty silvers and the weights are eight silvers", he said to him.


    "The sword shield will be made of steel and the weights are made of steel also", Kael said to him.


    "I will pay in advance, here''s the twenty-eight silvers.", he said as he handed the silver coins to the blacksmith.


    "And by the way, why do your weapons were not enchanted?", Kael asked curiously.


    "Oh, that! You see¨Cuh the Vulcanus family has great enchanters and we don''t have one to enchant them. And besides, the fee for enchanting weapons and armors are quite huge! Imagining their effects can actually turn the tides of battle. You will need a great enchanter to do the task!", he blurted out.


    Kael was in thought, if he could enchant all these weapons for fun.


    "Hey. Can I ask?", he said to him.


    "What is it?", replied the blacksmith.


    "If I enchant this with basic to master tier enchantments, will I have a share?", Kael asked.


    "Are you one of the enchanters! You must be a gift from heavens!", he exclaimed.


    "How about eighty-twenty? Considering the fact that I own the materials and the items!", the blacksmith said to him


    "That''s a pretty reasonable price! considering also that it is easy for me to enchant! Well, that''s a deal!", Kael said to him.


    "Well, shall we start with weapons?", Kael said as he looked to the weapon racks.


    He focused and enchanted the weapons one by one with "[Increased durability]", "[Increased strength]", "[Increased mobility]", and "[Increased attack speed]"


    The armors are enchanted with "[Decrease weight]", "[Elemental resistance]", "[Increased defense]", and "[Increased dodge rate]"


    The necklaces are enchanted with "[Increase health]", "[Increase stamina]", "[Increased mana]", "[Slow health regen.]", "[Slow stamina regen.]", and "[Slow mana regen.]"


    The rings are enchanted with elemental damages: like [Fire damage], [Cold damage], [Wind damage], [Earth damage], [Lightning damage], [Poison damage]. It also has elemental resistances like [Resist all elements]


    Kael was sweating on how many he enchants and he takes mana potion in-between when he runs out of mana. His seventy-five points of mana points are not a joke but still runs out due to the mana requirement of every enchantment.


    He sat on the chair and was sweating after his enchantments. He gestures the blacksmith to bring him a glass of water.


    "Water! Oh, sorry! Sorry! Wait a minute and I will bring you a glass of water.", he said as he hurriedly walks to the kitchen.


    Kael saw the pile of weapons he has enchanted and was happy. With it being enchanted, he imagined that its price will rise and so his share.


    "Here! Here! Your cold water!", the blacksmith said, while he carried the pitcher of water with a mug on his other hand.


    Glub! Glub! Glub!


    Kael drank hastily and he felt the cold water that quenches his thirst. He placed the mug on the table, then he stretched his arms.


    "With the enchantments given to the items, the price will be tripled from their original price! If they want it to be identified then they will be shocked by the enchantments given!", he said as he raised his brows and strokes his mustache


    "A piece of advice partner", Kael said then puts his arms on his shoulders


    "We will sell them not too far from their original price but only a little increase on the final price. With that, we can have more costumers. Overall, we helped the kingdom''s adventurers by making strong enchanted weapons at a low price! quite a noble deed if you analyze it my friend", Kael said to him


    "By the way, I''m so sorry for the late introductions. I''m Spen Kjelg! Nice to meet ya! Partner!"


    "I''m Kael Melvin! An adventurer! Nice to meet you!", he said as he embraced his shoulders.


    "I will work with you from now on and in the future, I guess? Don''t worry, I will visit anytime I''m vacant and be of service", he said.


    "By the way, I''m gonna take these steel sword. Consider it as an early payment. Goodbye! See you later!", he said as he exits the door.


    "Hmm, what a peculiar fellow! How many kids still exist like him these days? I wonder.", he said while wiping his mug.

 18 Consumables shop

    Kael went outside the shop and he is carrying his new steel sword. His new destination is a shop of consumable goods. He walked by the distance and saw a shop that was visited by his adventurer friends yesterday.


    He arrived and saw a well-built house made of wood. It says on the signboard, "Welcome to Emily''s consumable shop.". The door is wooden and it has an "open" sign inscribed in it.


    He pushed the door and then the sweet smell permeated his nose. While looking at the walls, it has many potions that were displayed. Many of it was familiar to Kael but he doesn''t know some of it.


    "Hello sir, I''m Emily! what potions do you like to purchase?", she said to him


    She has a commoner''s clothes but it has a good smelling perfume that is poured in it. She smiled at Kael and then waited for his reply.


    "I want to purchase five health potions and poison potion, as well as a monster attractant potion.", Kael said politely


    "One silver coin to each health potion, one silver coin to poison and two silver coins to monster attractant. All in all, seven silver coins.", she said to him


    Kael handed down his silver coins and then Emily took his potions.


    "Thank you for your purchase, anything else?", she said to him


    Kael is watching all the products in the store and saw that only potions are sold here.


    "Do you sell ingredients", Kael asked her curiously


    "Yeah we sell them but only a few are interested in making potions, so we put them at the back.", she said worriedly


    "How about I will make it into potions and then you will buy it from me. How''s that?", he said to her cheerfully


    "You''re an alchemist? How?", she asked curiosity


    "Well, I''ve been studying alchemy at a young age! well how about a contract?", he said seriously


    "Of course! I will be glad", Emily said while smiling


    They went inside and Kael saw the alchemy table. Kael then began his alchemy, he used mortar and pestle for grinding his ingredients and used a presser to remove the juice and throws the excess solid parts.


    First, he will make strength potions, its ingredients were called strength herbs. He pounds them on the mortar and pestle and then put it on a strainer and poured water. In a minute, he created five potions with one kilo of strength herbs. Its ratio is one is the top ten, which means every one tablespoon of its juice, there are nine teaspoons of water.


    Next was the swift potion, its ingredient was called rapid herbs. He has two kilos of it and then began his alchemy. He washed his mortar and pestle and the strainer. He pounds the rapid herbs and strained it. The excess solid fibers are thrown away. He managed to make ten kilos of the swift potion.


    Next was the stamina potion, its ratio is two is to ten. He has one and a half kilo of stamina herbs. He pounded it till it has juice, he extracted its juice and then made seven stamina potions.


    Next was the health potion, it has blood herbs as an ingredient. Kael pounded the blood herbs and it has a reddish black color and releases the sweet smell. With five kilos, he created fifteen potions. Then mana potions, he has three kilos of mana herbs and it produced eleven potions.


    Next is the poison potion, they have blight herb that has a strong poison effect. With three kilos, he has made seven potions. It is lesser than other potions because it has greater concentration with a five is to five ratios.


    Next was the monster attractant potion, it releases a sweet smell that makes the monsters go crazy on finding the potion''s smell. With two kilos, he made ten potions.


    Last is called cure disease, he processed the ingredients called miracle herbs, it cured almost all illness and diseases. With four kilos, he has made thirteen potions. He finished everything in thirty minutes.


    "Whoa, that was fast! What level are you? Are you a master?", she asked curiously


    "That''s a secret, don''t tell it to anyone, okay?", he said to her


    "Okay! and your fee is", she said but she was interrupted


    "It''s okay! I''m gonna collect it after a month just put it in a chest.", he said to her while smiling


    "I''m gonna go now! I still have to earn money while adventuring", he said hastily


    "You''re an adventurer? wow! at a young age?", she said while surprised


    "Yeah! see you next time", he said as he exits the door.


    Kael went back to the ugly duckling in and saw that the people there are eating.


    "Hey sir eat first!", the receptionist said while waiving at him


    Kael grabbed the plate and sat at the table. Their breakfast was grilled pork and a pork soup on a bowl, with a mug of orange juice.


    Kael ate his breakfast and this time, no one bothered him. It will be better if no one minded his presence.


    He went to his room and then washed. He changed his clothes with common wear and then wears his leather armor. He wears his robes and then put on his backpack. His backpack weights lighter than before, thanks to his skill "weightlessness". After that, he wrapped his chains in his arms and strapped his steel sword on his back.


    He went outside and goes to the adventurers guild. While walking, he saw other people whom he never saw before and he felt astonished. On his way, he watched the sceneries and all the key places that he recognized as landmarks. He saw trees by the road, small shops, a little marketplace, and then the statues of the heroes of Dwight. In his visit to the statues, he saw different statues of different job classes. He was walking beside the river that is located inside the city.


    He walks and hops with a cheerful mood on his journey. His backpack weights like a feather and he has the strength to spare to jog.


    He arrived at his destination without troubles and saw the mesmerizing look of the guild headquarters. He entered the guild and saw a bustling people the inside. Many were at the rewards desk, some are on the quest bulletin board, and some are on the application desk.


    Kael walked to the quest bulletin board and picked a quest that is based on his rank called rank-G quest.

 19 First mission

    In the bulletin board of missions and quests, he scanned the papers posted that have the mission details as well as their objectives.


    "Rank A mission, Rank C, Oh here! Rank G", he said then he grabs the paper.


    "Rank G mission¨Cherb gathering, Details¨Cpick 20 blood herbs, and 10 mana herbs. The required time of accomplishment¨C1 day. Location¨CDwight forest. Reward¨C25 silvers", he says as he reads the mission.


    He had ample time to finish it till afternoon. Kael goes to the mission counter and then he hands the mission paper.


    "Rank G quest, ma''am", Kael said as he smiled.


    "Rank G? So you''re a beginner! Good luck on your first mission.", she said to Kael then grabbed the mission paper.


    "After you''ve finished your mission, go to the rewards counter and you''re good to go!", she said cheerfully.


    "Thanks, ma''am! I''m gonna go now", Kael said to her.


    Kael walked towards the exit and then traveled towards his destination. He rode on the carriage to reach his destination, which only took an hour to arrive. Dwight forest was located at the northern part of the capital. There was dusty and unpaved road which headed towards the Shelkem village.


    As he arrived, the carriage left to continue it''s journey towards Shelkem village.


    "I need to find blood herbs and mana herbs fast! In the afternoon, I will learn info on the tavern," he said on his self.


    He treaded the path towards the forest, examining every herb spotted his curious eyes. He found three strength herbs in a minute.


    "My luck is good today!", he said merrily.


    He looked again for blood herbs. However, instead of herbs he saw there were goblins that were roaming in the forest.


    "What do I do? There were monsters here already? Do I need to kill them or avoid them?", Kael said in his mind, while thinking what to do in his current situation.


    "If I kill them, I will gain experience and my character level will go up. But if I avoid them, It will be troublesome", he said, while scratching his head.


    "I''d rather choose the option one and gain experience!", he said as he concludes his choice.


    The goblins were patrolling around the vicinity, carrying looted armors and weapons from dead adventurers. One had a breastplate and a large helmet with a club. Another one had leather armor and a short sword and the other one was carrying a club.


    Skreik! Kriek!


    They are talking towards themselves and there''s a goblin shaman that commands them. Perhaps it was their patrol leader.


    Kael sneaked towards them and he is hiding behind the tree.


    "I need to kill the shaman first or I will be at the disadvantage," Kael said to his self.


    He had two daggers that can be attached to his chains and a steel sword at his arsenal. He draws his sword and jumped to the top of the tree. While he was at the top of the tree, he saw three goblins warriors and a shaman.


    He jumped from the tree and aimed for the shaman. The shaman was alerted because he has a skill "detect life". While Kael is hiding, he was out of the range of "detect life". Kael flies downwards and the shaman realizes that he is his target. The shaman tried to evade but he was a second late.


    Swoosh!


    The shaman was decapitated and his underling panicked. One goblin that has an armor attacked with his club. Kael dodged and slashed his head. The other two tried to run but he throws his two daggers at them.


    Chuck! chuck!


    The daggers pierced their skulls and they are down within seconds. Kael removed the dagger and then removed their monster core. He puts the monster core in his backpack.


    He continued his search for blood herbs and mana herbs. He left the goblin''s corpses and then continued. He saw a small brook and then washed his hands. He can feel the cold water in his hands and he felt refreshed. He then filled his water canteen with fresh water. The brook is shaded with the canopy of big trees and he rested there for minutes.


    When he was resting, he saw blood herbs and mana herbs just beside the brook.


    "My luck was with me today!", he said happily.


    He gathered the herbs and collected thirty each in every herb. He puts it to his backpack. He managed to collect it in a matter of an hour. Kael drank water from his canteen and then walks towards the exit of the forest.


    He then realized that his time here will be wasted if he didn''t level up.


    "I will level up my character level first and grind till afternoon.", he said while he opens his launch


    He ate his launch and then resumed his monster killing to level up. He walks to the forest with the help of a compass and a map. He saw a dire wolf in the distance after he traveled for minutes.


    He draws his sword and then called the wolf.


    "Hey, wolf! come here!", he provoked the dire wolf.


    Awoooo!!!


    The wolf howled and his brethren appeared, the seven wolves surrounded him.


    "Hey, you''re cheating right! Well, It doesn''t matter! come here boys!", he said while smiling


    Grrrr!!!


    The wolves attacked and Kael slashed the one who attacked first. The other three jumped towards him. With what has happened, he dodged one, he slashed the other one and then strikes the other with his hilt.


    "Five left", he said while he focused


    He attacked one in his front to break through from their encirclement.


    Whoosh!


    He immediately dashed forward. The wolves chased him and then Kael was attacked from the back.


    Kael initiated a back-kick towards the enemy that wants to attack him.


    Pak!


    The other two jumped towards him and then Kael slashed while twisting and goes in between them.


    "Three left!", he said as he counted that the only ones left are the three dire wolves.


    They attacked simultaneously but Kael charges towards them and thrust his sword on the dire wolf that is in the middle.


    Phsiek!


    The sword sounded as it pierced his heart.


    Kael removed his sword and the other two didn''t back down, didn''t even want to retreat.


    They attacked and then Kael front kicked the other and them back kicked the other. They were thrown and then Kael dashed to thrust his sword.


    Shick!


    He killed the wolf without mercy. The other one realized that he is the only one left and intends to run for his life, but Kael jumped towards him and hastily slashed him vertically.


    "That''s the last one.", he said in his happily


    He then grabbed his window card and saw that he has leveled up.


    ...


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Mael Kael/Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Lord/villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank G


    Character level: 13


    Character points: 39


    Job-class: combatant


    Job-class level:?


    Job-class points: 13


    ...


    He saw his adventurer window card is glowing and then he puts it back in his backpack.


    He removed the monster cores and then goes back to the road towards Dwight.


    "I''m coming back earlier than expected!", he said as he walked.

 20 Information gathering

    Kael arrived at the adventurers guild headquarters. It was afternoon when he came and the guild is busier than in the morning. With the adventurers that have finished their quests, it is only normal that it will be busier.


    Kael goes to the rewards desk and gave his herbs while saying that he has accomplished his mission.


    "Wait a minute, Sir. Your reward will be handed to you. Please wait for a while.", she said to Kael.


    Kael waited for a minute and the rewards are given to him.


    "Twenty-five silvers, Sir! If you have monster cores, well, we will purchase it on an agreeable price. It will be depending on the quality of the monster cores.", she said seriously.


    "Well, I have seven monster cores. Would you buy it?", Kael said to her


    "Yes! We''re happy to buy it.", she said to him cheerfully.


    Kael handed down the monster cores and it has a good quality.


    "Fourteen silver coins. Two silver coins per monster core", she said to Kael while giving the coins.


    "Thank you!", Kael said to her politely.


    Kael received a total of thirty-nine silver coins. The currency in this world was one gold is equivalent to one hundred silvers and one silver was equivalent hundred coppers.


    Kael then went home and then saw the sunset is coming. The clouds were painted red and the people are slowly diminishing in the streets. He arrived at the ugly duckling inn and then he checked-in.


    Kael went to his room and then he brandished his daggers and sword. After he brandished it all, he washed and washed his clothes. Within an hour, he finished.


    The sun has set and it was dark, he went downstairs and he offered to eat a meal, he ate and then went to the tavern to learn from gossips.


    On his way, there were only a few people and the street lamps were brightly lit. He walked to a street of tiles and bricks. He walked without problems until he arrived at his destination.


    From the outside, you can smell the delicious cookings and their noise can be heard. It was a mixture of random talks and laughter that can be described as a merry mood within.


    The signboard tells that it is called "Melody Inn". There were cheers at the doorway and Kael entered inside. From the outside, the noise can be heard and the noise from the inside was louder. There was a bard that was singing and dancing while playing his instrument called a violin.


    Kael approached the counter and then ordered a light drink.


    "I would like to know information", Kael said to the receptionist.


    "Please go inside sir.", said the male receptionist.


    Kael walked inside the door beside the receptionist''s desk. He saw a dim light and there was like a confession room. He entered the room and there was a chair. Kael sat at the chair and waited for someone to come to the other side of the confession room.


    Minutes later, there were footsteps from the outside and then it entered the other room.


    "Ahem, sorry for the time you''ve waited. I heard that you need information and I will answer you based on what I know. Every info will be a gold coin, that''s it.", he said in an old voice.


    Kael wondered why it has to be so secretive but Kael understands that hiding his face will protect him from unknown spies that are after him. Giving information will be critical and revealing your identity is not allowed.


    "I would like to know about the dungeons that appeared from the Golden Valley.", Kael asked curiously.


    "Oh, that question can be answered with my knowledge, as you can see it is linked to the stars that fell from the sky. The stars that fell are not a meteorite but the Angel rebels my dear child, this information came from the Shelkhem and other villages that have witnessed their rise from the burning crash site. They have the power to create gates and it can be only closed by killing the boss from the inside. Many dungeons are still open and the kingdom is in grave danger. Dungeons are one problem and the Fallen Rebels are All S-class and up when they are measured in terms of power. The Angels are hunting them but they are untamable and plans on ruling the world of Lumia. Even with the help of Angels, the Humans and other races are still in danger. That''s all I know child, any other questions?", the mysterious old man said to him with a sad tone.


    "Were there dungeons that were closed?", Kael asked.


    "There are! First was the Dungeon on The Elemoore village, the Shelkem village, the Golden Valley, near the city walls of Dwight, and other 3 places on the wilderness of Dwight forest.", the mysterious man said to him.


    "Actually the persons who closed the gates are all youth, for example, the young master of Golden Valley which was only thirteen!", he said to surprise Kael.


    "Whoa really?", Kael said.


    "Not just that, there is a kid prodigy that enrolled in the army and is like a rising star! The commander of the infantry will enroll him on Dwight Academy in one year from now! and not only that! there are also newbie adventurers that enrolled in the adventurers guild and broke the record of the youngest adventurers alive!", the mysterious man added.


    "The king also gives rewards on closing a dungeon, it is a chest full of gold.", he said.


    "Also, the king is recruiting in the army. Many job-less individuals applied for it. There''s a rumor of preparation for war.", he added.


    "Okay, that''s enough for now, any info about the academy?",


    "Oh, that''s easy! The academy students are juniors in the first two years than seniors in another two years. After you''ve graduated, next is the college of elites. You can enroll in any other job-class as long as you''ve completed their first stage. You can enroll in all job classes if you want but it will only result in learning all the basics that have weak skills. So it is advisable to learn one but stronger job-class.", he said to Kael clearly.


    "Do you want to learn about the Great war? I will tell you about it next", he said to Kael.


    "The humans were all united in the past but they are becoming greedy as they have gathered many kinds of job classes, especially the Dwights. As they made a kingdom, they planned on invading the Demi-humans race."


    "The past king made a pact with the Barbarians and the Skulds to defeat the demi-humans. The messengers brought bad news to the demi-humans and war has been proclaimed. The Skulds gathered their necromancers and witches to rally their troops to the war. The Barbarians also brandished their axes and assembled their troops to the front lines. The Dwights have been assembling their elites to the borders and made a camp near the borders of the demi-humans."


    "While the king of elves heard the proclamation, he assembled the dark elves and wood elves¨Ctogether with his high elves. to the borders. The Elves are attacked by the mass army of humans and when they are disadvantaged. The Dwarves came to the rescue."


    "The Dwarves fought the humans together with their rivals¨Cthe Elves. The fight was brutal and the humans still hold the upper hand. It was the time when the mechanical army of the Hobbits came and attacked them."


    "They were fighting with the metallic golems and the humans were slaughtered one by one."


    "It was when the heroes of the humans came and they massacred the mechanical automatons of Hobbits."


    "The fight was brutal and the beast-men came to neutralize the war between the races. The beast men were peace-loving people and they managed to neutralize the war."


    "They were all have been lost a loved one but the beast-men made a pact of peace and then they all agreed to sign the pact. The beast men then made a seal to the documents then the contract was hidden by the Druids."


    "The peace came and the other races didn''t fight for a hundred years. But suddenly when the peace was reigning, the king of monsters¨CThe evil Black Dragon appeared and rallied the monsters to fight the humans and other races."


    "The Beast men then assembled the Alliance of Races to defeat the Evil Black Dragon. They were all allied with each other but their forces are only small compared to the vast army of mutated monsters. They mutated and evolved due to the Evil Black Dragon''s Black Magic."


    "They fought for ten years and the kingdoms were nearly destroyed and the famine in the land was very spreading."


    "They were in the brink of destruction but the new heroes appeared from different races. The Hobbit Mechanic Gudtarg, The Vampire King Vlad, The Barbarian Champion Hulgard, The Dwight Hero Edmund, The Druid Shaman Rouse, The Lycan King Arthur, The Necromancer King Skuld, The Elven King Dale, and Dwarf King Belgurt."


    "Together these heroes battled the Black Dragon from the Ma-aken Gorge and successfully defeated him. With the Evil Black Dragon defeated, they all happily feasted for ten days in their own cities."


    "Peace reigned until the stars fell and the dungeons appeared.", the mysterious man said to him his story.

 21 Message

    Kael gave five gold coins to the Mysterious man and then left the confession room. He walks to the darkroom then exited and ordered a hot beef soup to warm his stomach on the counter. While sipping the soup, he was listening to the singing bard of melody tavern. He enjoyed the song and it is about a hero that closed the dungeons. Kael didn''t know who''s the one that he meant but Kael knew that he''s one of them. Mysteriously, there were many others like him and they are rumored to be young ones.


    Kael drank a cup of water after he finished his soup. He thought of going home because it''s late so he paid for his fees.


    "That''s ten coppers sir", the girl with an apron said to him.


    "Here", Kael said as he hands down his fee.


    He exited the tavern and then walked with a full stomach. He is calm in his travels as he breathes the fresh air of the street. Unlike the past world he lives in, this world has fresh air that is close to the air conditioner. His hands are in his pocket and he saw little numbers of people in the night. When he arrived at the streets near where he sleeps in, he walks faster and the street is wet due to the rain that has recently poured when he was still at the tavern.


    He arrived at the tavern then checked in on the ugly duckling inn.


    "Room number six, ma''am", he said to the counter.


    Kael walked upstairs and opened his door. He unstraps his shoes and then went to his bed.


    While lying down on the bed, he was thinking of what the mysterious person on the tavern. He was waiting for his sleepiness to strike until something crashed on his window.


    Bang!


    Kael was surprised because of the loud noise. He opened the window and saw a pigeon. It had a letter on its back. Kael opened the letter that was sealed by a container. The container was strapped on the pigeons'' body which the bird carried for a long way.


    The letter was rolled to fit on the small container. Kael opened it and it says, "Dear Mael, We are okay here on the mansion. Sir Vanz was currently busy with the construction and projects. I am currently relaxing in my room while writing this message. Don''t worry, because we''re safe. The workers and people are living more comfortably, because of lower taxes. They wanted to pass their message that they are praying for your safety. Be healthy always and don''t stay up late. Your loving mother, Erza."


    Kael finished reading and he thought of replying. He grabbed a paper and then replied to his mother.


    "Dear Mom, I am well and healthy. Don''t worry, because I''m taking care of myself. There are trouble makers that mocked me, because I''m a kid so I''ve taught them a lesson. I''ve met new adventurers as I went to the capital and they guided me towards the adventurer guild. I''ve also met a boy of my age and passed together with him. I''ve visited a blacksmith shop and helped to enchant his products. I will be having my shares. Also the consumable shops, I''ve also helped concoct the ingredients. While I''m at the tavern, I''ve also gathered some intel about the appearance of the dungeon. To my surprise, the dungeons are created by beings called Fallens. An Angel that rebelled against the creator. As I walked home I''ve slept then the pigeon arrived so I''ve replied. I''m sorry if I''m not there to take care of my sibling but I will go home after a year. That''s all and take care. Your loving son, Mael", he finished writing and then put it back to the container.


    He brought food and water to the carrier pigeon then he grabbed it to make it fly. It flew until Kael can''t see it anymore. With what happened, he felt relaxed to know that Golden Valley was safe.

 22 Side-lines

    He waked up early when the sun still hasn''t yet risen. He sat on his bed and then rubbed his eyes. He lights his candle and then went to the bathroom. He opened the bathroom door then he puts the candle beside the mirror. He twisted the faucet and filled the bathtub with water. He removes his clothes then dips his body on the water. He stayed there for a minute and scrubbed his back with a towel. After several minutes, he finished washing.


    He washed his clothes, then hangs it. He dressed shorts and a t-shirt, normal clothes fit for a nobody like him. He opened the door to exit his room, then he went downstairs.


    He checked out from the inn and saw several persons currently eating their breakfast.


    "Breakfast, Sir?", the girl attendant offered.


    "Yes, please!", Kael replied to her.


    Kael grabs his breakfast with bread and butter and steak. He sits in the corner of the eating place. Kael ate his bread and butter first, then the steak. He drank water and then headed outside.


    He walks on the silent street and only a few people can be counted by his fingers were seen. He saw that the sun just began to shine. The cold and dark streets were slowly lit by its rays. Kael saw the lampposts on the streets slowly lose their brightness and the sun''s rays swap it''s light.


    Kael arrived in the blacksmith shop and he heard the clanking sounds of the hammering of metal of blacksmith. He entered the shop and saw fewer items from before. No one was there to cater to the customers so Kael waited for a minute. Time passed by and Kael is getting impatient. He still heard some clanking sound and then he called the blacksmith.


    "Hello. Somebody there? Your customer is waiting.", he said loudly.


    Kael called then the clanking sound stopped. The blacksmith arrived and then it is obvious that he wiped his sweat hurriedly.


    "Pardon my tardiness. I''m currently working because my quota was doubled. The demand for my works was quite high due to its enchantments and its low price.", he said as he wipe his sweat.


    "It''s okay, so how''s it?", Kael asked.


    "I''m pretty slow on making armors. If only I have an assistant.", he said to Kael.


    "Well, I''m a blacksmith too!", Kael said to him.


    "What? How many knowledge do you have?!", Kjelg blurted out.


    "I''m a master blacksmith so we will be making great progress", Kael said to him.


    "Well, let''s start! We have work to do.", Kjelg said.


    They went to the blacksmith shop located behind his store. They passed by many unfinished works and Kael was amazed. He never saw a room full of armors and weapons. He touched one helmet and then put it back.


    "That''s still going to be repaired. Let''s go outside.", Kjelg said to Kael.


    "Okay.", Kael said to him.


    They arrived at the shop and the heat is intense. Kael felt the heat of the shop.


    The armors were piled in the wall with a dummy to hold it. The weapons are neatly arranged. They were piled in their kind. Kjelg grabbed the leather apron and then grabbed the other one to Kael.


    They started their weapon and armor making. Kael knows what to do and he obeys Kjelg''s instructions.


    Tang! Tang! Tang!


    Kael smashed the hot metal to remove its impurities. He folds it then smashed again. He repeated the process and they made great progress. They created seven weapons and three sets of full plated armor.


    "Whoooo! That was fast! We''ve created twice!", Kjelg said to him.


    "Wait a minute, I will enchant them.", Kael said to him.


    He enchants them with what he knows and then they displayed it to the shop.


    "Thanks for the help! I will double your pay to make you happy. It just because we''re friends.", he said to Kael.


    "Thanks!", Kael said to him.


    "You have fifty-three silvers for your share in the products plus twelve silvers for your help.", he said to Kael.


    "Thanks, I am earning bigger in blacksmithing than adventuring! That was a surprise for me!", Kael said to him.


    "I will be going, thanks for everything", Kael exits the shop.


    He has sixty-five silvers in his pocket. He walks towards the street and the sun has finally risen. Its rays are colored yellow and it painted the buildings with its colors.


    He arrived at his destination and he entered the shop of Emily. He opened the door and the bells on the door clangs when he opened it.


    "Come in!", Emily said to him.


    "Good morning!", Kael to her.


    "Good morning", Emily replied.


    "How''s your day?", Kael asked.


    "It was busier, many adventurers purchased your self-made potions and you have a share of ten silvers.", she said.


    "Thank you!", Kael said to her.


    "This can supply my need in one week. Thank you", Kael said to her.


    "How proficient are you on alchemy? The kingdom has only ten master alchemist! Fewer alchemists are grandmasters. Are you one of them?", she said.


    "I''m currently a master and No, I''m only doing this for fun and I''m not one of them", He said to Emily.


    "You should go to the academy! with that talent you have in alchemy, you can supply your tuition!", she said to him.


    "Yep, that''s my plan! And I''m currently planning of joining the academy in one year.", Kael said to her.


    "Well good luck then!", she said to him.


    "Thanks! I''m gonna get going then!", he said to her then exited the door.


    Kale went back to the inn and checked-in. He went upstairs and then changed his sweaty clothes. He wears his clothes, battle gear, and weapons. He went downstairs then he checked-out the inn.

 23 Escorts

    Kael walked towards their headquarters prepared, the sun is shining bright on its peak and it is noon. He arrived a little bit late compared yesterday. The people were bustling in the headquarters. Kael went to the bulletin board of missions and looked for a new quest. His eyes was fixed on the posted information written in this manner:


    "Rank F:Escort mission


    Details: Escort a carriage of carrying goods towards the Barbarian Kingdom.


    Duration: One week


    Reward:Fifty silvers."


    He picked the mission. Then went to the mission receptionist, while carrying the mission paper.


    "Here''s what I''ve picked", Kael said to her.


    "Thank you, Sir. For picking a mission. You will be accompanied by five veterans so don''t worry.", she said to him.


    While Kael finished picking mission and was going out but a male shouted to call their attention. Kael turned around and listened.


    "Attention all adventurers! I''m the guild master and we have a big quest! The adventurers are needed by the kingdom! As you can see, there were dungeons that were recently appearing from the different places of the kingdom and the adventurers are the ones who were assigned to clear them. You can only close the dungeon by killing the boss monster inside. If they are left open, they will kill anything outside their dungeon. We have a new quest that will be given to you. It was called dungeon exploration, dungeon conquering, and dungeon excavation.


    Dungeon exploration will only be espionage and dungeon excavation is taking the loot from the monsters without killing the Boss. And last was the conquering that involves killing the boss and closing the gate, every dungeon that was closed will be rewarded by a chest of gold by the king himself! That''s all and thank you for listening", he announced.


    Kael met with the other adventurers on the designated point of their meeting place.


    He saw a male in his mid-twenties and carries a bow; a ranger to be exact. He has four other companions that have a job-class. A female priest in her priestly uniform that was in her twenties, a Knight that has a full plated armor and he covers his face with a helm. There was also a male mage in his thirties and has a staff that he carries. And last was the Paladin that has a hammer and a shield.


    Kael introduced himself towards them.


    "Hi! I''m a combatant! I''m Kael Melvin. Nice to meet you!", he said as he bowed down.


    He introduced but they were silent.


    "What? A combatant? And you''re underaged? How old are you?", the male ranger mocked him.


    "I''m thirteen! I''m sorry if you can only have me. The mission says it has a rank F difficulty so you have me. Don''t complain about what you get because it says its difficulty is rank F okay?", Kael replied.


    "What can you do? Swing your sword and all?", said the Knight.


    "Hey don''t bully him guys, he was like you in the past! at least stronger than you in his age! What are you doing when you''re thirteen? Swinging your wooden sword?", the male mage interrupted.


    "He has a point so don''t underestimate him", The female priest said.


    "We''re sorry, I''m Andre¨Ca mage", said Andre as he reached Kael''s hands.


    "I''m Fred¨Ca knight!", he said then shakes hands with Kael.


    "Johansen¨Ca ranger", he said as he raised his hands.


    "Kelly and I''m a priest, nice to meet you!", she said to him.


    "Estes, a paladin!", he said.


    "Nice to meet you all!", said Kael and bowed again.


    They waited for minutes and then the carriage arrived. The driver together with the merchant went down from the carriage and they are greeted.


    "How''s your day?", the merchant greeted them.


    "We have problems with one of our wheels so we arrived late, so everyone''s ready? We will go now. Go to the back of the carriage and we''re good to go!", he said to them.


    They went to the back of the carriage and they will travel to the borders of the kingdom.


    Kael slept and woke up in-between the journey. They passed through the valleys and mountains in their travels when he woke up. He saw the road that was beside the mountain, there was a cliff beside it. From his seat, he saw the mountain beside they''re traveling has snow on its top. The cold breeze of air went through his clothes and he felt the chill. After they encompassed the mountain of Flegen, they arrived at the village of Terizla. They are the ones that lived at the boundaries of Dwight.


    "Hey wake up!", said the girly voice.


    Kael was surprised and almost slammed to the floor of the village. He waked up and then exited the carriage.


    He saw many vineyards in the village. They also have winepress that supplies wine to the kingdom of Dwight and also to the Barbarian kingdom of Farmus. Kael walks to the muddy ground and he saw many children that are chasing with each other. Some adults have seen harvesting grapes and they have harvesting crates that they carried.


    "We will restock our supplies", the Merchant said to them.


    The merchant purchased food and they ate bread that has been given to them by the merchant. Kael ate the bread and drank water.


    "I will buy food and wine from them. The three must escort me, others will guard our carriage.", the merchant said to them.


    The ranger, paladin, and priest accompanied the merchant while Kael was with the knight and mage in the guard duty.


    The merchant walked towards the market of the village. Kael and the others were left behind. They talked while they are away.


    "What happened? Why did you want to be an adventurer that badly? You have to attend first the academy if you want to have skills that come from your job-class.", The knight said to him.


    "It was a long story and besides, enrollment will be next year. That''s why while I wait, I wanted to gain experience while I am an adventurer.", Kael explained.


    "Well that explains it, but you''re still a kid. You should be studying for the entrance exams for the enrollment", the knight said to him.


    "And by the way, How do you fight enemies? You don''t have a skill do you?", the mage asked curiously.


    "I don''t have a skill! Only techniques!", Kael proudly said.


    "What?", The mage blurted out.


    "Yep, and you will see it later if I fight.", Kael said to them.


    While they are talking, the other three and the merchant arrived while carrying their stocks. They brought it inside the carriage.


    They again went inside to the carriage then they traveled again. While they are inside, the kids waved goodbye to them.


    Bye! Goodbye!


    They waved until they can not be seen.

 24 Travels

    Kael slept a little in the road and then waked up in the bumpy road of Argenta that goes to the Barbarian kingdom of Farmus. He fixed his clothes and wiped his face with a cloth.


    "We''ve arrived at the borders of the Barbarian Kingdom.", said the knight


    Kael winked and wiped his eyes. He can''t see clearly because his eyes didn''t adjust yet from the bright light of the sun. It was noon and the sun was at its peak. Kael peaked outside and then saw the desolate wilderness of dried land.


    "We will be meeting monsters on our way so prepare yourself. The wilderness was teeming with crazed hyenas and other monsters. We have to be extra careful if we want to live through this. The monsters are above your level so it will be difficult. Don''t worry you got us! Right team!", shouted the knight.


    "Yeah!", they all chorused.


    They readied their weapons, their senses are more alert for they know that danger will come. Kael peeped outside together with the ranger. The ranger used his skill "far-sight". With his telescopic eyes, he saw the hyenas and they are numerous.


    "Ten, twenty, no way! they are numbered fifty!", the ranger said while alarmed.


    "How did they reproduced like that? they are twice the number this time."


    "They are still far! The team let''s go out and protect the carriage!", said the Knight


    Kael together with them went outside.


    "Position yourselves! Me and the paladin, to the front! Ranger to the top of the carriage. Priest, in our backs; heal the injured. Mage, to the top of the carriage and fire a spell at them while they are still far.", the knight leader commands them.


    "How about me?", Kael asked.


    "Sorry, I almost forgot about you. Just fight together with us and protect the priest.", he said to him.


    Kael positioned himself at the back of the priest to protect her.


    "They are coming! prepare the spell!", the knight shouted


    "[Mega Fireball!]", he shouted while he let out the spell.


    A big fireball was gathering on his staff and then he unleashed it to the enemies.


    Bang!


    The bursting fire exploded and smoke rose from the area of its effect.


    The crazed hyenas are thrown all over and the remaining enemies were scattered. He eliminated ten enemies with just a single spell. The enemies didn''t back down but instead they were angered, they dashed towards their direction. They were showing their canines to show that they were enraged.


    The knight and the paladin raised their shields towards their chest. The enemies were getting nearer and nearer.


    "Prepare for combat!", their leader yelled


    The Hyenas struck his shield and the knight used his skill "[Bash]". The hyena was thrown and it felt dizziness due to the impact.


    The paladin struck the incoming hyena with his hammer.


    Pang!


    The body of hyena sounded as it was struck with his hammer.


    Some hyenas were stopped by the paladin and the knight but a single enemy has passed through the defense. It aimed towards their priest. Kael was ready to attack and then he slashed it with his sword.


    The enemy bit his sword as he slashed it, making his sword stuck from its mouth. Kael felt irritated so he kicked it.


    It flowed towards their companions. The enemies encircled them and the mage is firing his fireballs to the enemies. The same with the ranger.


    The ranger is firing from the top of the carriage. His skill "[Return Arrows]" is making his arrows return to his hands by his spell. In other words, his arrows will return if he will use his spell.


    Kael was defending the priest from the enemies left and right. His sword technique was currently used. He remembered his test on the sword techniques that involves slashing the dummy rapidly. It was then put to use.


    [Slash!]


    [Bash!]


    The knight shouted while repelling the parade of enemies. The hyenas were biting the knight''s armor but they can''t penetrate their teeth from the steel armor of the knight. Kael was still uninjured and can repel the enemies.


    "More are coming!", their leader shouted


    Another wave of enemies was coming and they have depleted their stamina and mana by half. Kael was still in vigor and has no sweat at all. The enemies attacked like a flood running through them. The knight was struck by three simultaneously and was thrown to the ground.


    Errrggg!


    He gasped as the hyenas are reaching his neck. The paladin was also struck but he used his skill "[Towering stance]", his skill will let him stand for three seconds without being blown and his defense will be enhanced by twofold.


    Pak! Pak! Pak!


    The enemies that attacked their leader was thrown. Kael kicked them and then he slashed the upcoming enemies.


    Their leader saw how fast Kael is when he slashes and evades the enemies. Kael poured monster attractant to his sword and then he ran towards them.


    The Knight was perplexed by his trick and then he commanded the ranger and the mage.


    "Mage! Ranger! Attack the enemies as Kael will play the bait.", the knight leader shouted.


    Kael was running around the carriage in circles and the mage and ranger were firing them with spells and arrows. Kael evades and slashed. He has the stamina to execute it all.


    "[Rapid fire!] [Return arrows!]", the ranger used his spell


    "[Fireball!] [Fireball!] [Fireball!]", the mage yelled as he cast his spells.


    For some time then made great progress and killed them all.


    The knight killed seventeen enemies and still counting. Kael also killed ten and the paladin also killed fourteen. The ranger killed fifteen and the mage killed fourteen.


    They gasped and was out of air. Kael drank his stamina potion and relaxed while sitting on the carriage. They managed to take out the enemies with the help of Kael.


    "Thanks! as the leader of the party, I thank you with all my heart.", He said to Kael


    "You''re welcome, we''re sharing the same quest so don''t thank me. It''s normal to help out.", Kael said to him


    "We will be venturing the bandit lands next. I hope we will be safe on the way.", the leader said to him.


    "Really? are they strong?", Kael asked


    "Some have level twenty and up. They also have a leader that has a level of fifty. Let''s be careful not to be clashing with them. But we''ll be safe, don''t you worry. Just take a rest first.", he said reassuringly


    "Okay, but we don''t have to lower our guards. It''s better to be prepared for the time being.", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah you were right, you can sleep now. We will just wake you up when we''re there.", he said to him.


    Kael slept while hugging his backpack. They traveled along the way and then the rain came.

 25 Ambush

    Kael was in the depths of his dream. He dreams of his past self when they were dating with his girlfriend in the past.


    "I love you", Kael said to her while brushing her hair.


    "I love you too!", she said to him while kissing his lips.


    "Kael! wake up! we''re ambushed!", said the knight while shaking him up.


    "What happened! where are we!", Kael said while still confused.


    "I will explain later! we''re attacked!", said the leader.


    Kael went outside while still dizzy. The burning arrows are raining towards them.


    Pak! Pak! Tak!


    Kael repelled the arrows rapidly in succession. He saw the shooters are up in the cliff and they are at the bottom. Making them an easy target. The arrows are burning and the arrows that were stuck on the carriage were starting to make a fire that was spreading throughout the carriage.


    "My goods! Don''t let them burn! Put the fire out!", the merchant said to them.


    The mage caster cast "[Rainfall]" within the range of the carriage. This skill will make a rain cloud that will make showers of rain.


    They are hiding on the cover at the back of the carriage. The fire arrows began to halt their attacks but then, the bandits initiated their "[Battled cries]". It was a skill of the barbarians that will make their attack speed rise by fifty percent. The skill effects depend on how much skill points you''ve invested in it.


    They jumped from the top of the cliff and launched their attacks.


    "Team! make a defense on the carriage! surround the carriage now!", their leader said to them.


    They immediately executed the command. The paladin and knight were at the front. Kael was at their backs, followed by priest and the rear was the mage that was protected by the ranger. The merchant and the driver were hidden inside the carriage.


    "Prepare for combat!", shouted their leader.


    The barbarian bandits jumped towards them. They were armed by axes and some are with arrows. It was raining with barbarians that were falling from the sky. Five barbarians jumped at them that carries axes. The knight and paladin raised their shields and it was struck by the barbarian''s axes.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Ping!


    The shields were rapidly struck by them. The barbarians were hammering their axes to their shields. They are barely defending their attacks.


    Nguk!


    Their leader was flinching to the barrage of blows, also the paladin was a pinch.


    [Shield flash!]


    The paladin''s skill flashed a great light to the onlookers. They are blinded for three seconds. For the three seconds were enough.


    The paladin hammers them then turned to use his shield''s skill.


    "[Shield slam]"


    They were thrown to the impact. While they were still blinded, the knight slashed his sword to the enemies.


    [Slash!] [Slash!] [Slash!]


    They managed to wound them but not to the point where they were killed. Kael was just behind them and he saw that they can manage. He didn''t expect them to handle the situation themselves.


    The enemies have recovered their sights and they were enraged.


    [Roar!]


    The barbarians roared and then they attacked with greater strength. They kicked the paladin and he was thrown, making him slam to the carriage. Kael felt alarmed about the situation. He covers the position of the paladin. The paladin was immediately healed by the priest.


    Kael gripped his sword tightly, the enemies struck with fierceness. Three enemies were heading to Kael and two to the knight. Kael blocked with his sword but felt their force was making his blocks being pushed. Three was striking with dual-wielded axes and they were fast. Luckily, Kael has ample strength to deflect their axes and has trained his reflex to the limit when he was still a kid. For him, it was only a normal exercise together with his father.


    Kael deflects rapidly and is coping up with their attacks. While the knight leader was repeatedly smashed on his shield. The knight used his skill "[Slash]". He struck one on the neck thus killing it. They were reduced by one but it didn''t stop them. It resulted in them to be angrier. One slash was heavy and his arms that were carrying the shield were weary due to their onslaught of attacks.


    Kael on the other side, slashed one of the arms of the barbarian then his neck. His body slammed to the ground and then Kael pierced the chest of the other. Both are down and only one left. Kael then went offensive, he slashed his sword as fast as he could and he made three cuts on his chest; slashing through his ribcage.


    The knight on the other hand, slashed his enemy and then bashed his shield. The enemy staggered backward and then he charged while aiming his sword in piercing stance.


    [Pierce charge!]


    He used the skill then it pierces his enemy. All are down, Kael wiped his sword to the cloth of his enemy''s clothes.


    The enemies from the top of the cliff then rained their arrows towards them.


    "Take cover!", Kael shouted


    The went to the backside of the carriage and while the shield bearers were lifting their shields up high.


    Kael then made a plan to eradicate them.


    "I have a plan. Ranger''s arrows won''t reach them but a spell can", Kael said to the leader.


    "Can you make a large scale spell?", he asked the mage.


    "Yep, with a mana potion, I can cast another ''Mega Fireball''.", he said to him frantically


    "Here a mana potion", Kael handed his mana potion.


    He managed to gulp it in one way and he was replenished.


    "I can make two ''[Mega fireball]'' with this!", he exclaimed.


    "Cover me while I prepare the spell", he said then closed his eyes to focus.


    He made two Mega fireballs at the same time and then prepared to unleash it.


    "I''m ready!", he said


    "Make a diversion on the other side of the carriage and the attack to the other side.", Kael said to them.


    The shield bearers went to the other side and mael and the mage to the other side.


    "On my count! three! two! one! go!", Kael instructed.


    The shield bearers went to the other side and then arrows rained to them. Kael and the mage then unleashed their spell to the cliff.


    Bang! Bang!


    The cliff exploded and then the cliff landslides. They were eroded together with the cliff and were crushed by the soil.


    Woohoo!!!


    Everyone shouted with gladness as they become victorious from the battle. They leaped and hugged each other. Kael on the contrary was calm and relaxed. He isn''t happy nor sad but emotionless due to the fact that killing was normal in his past life.


    They removed the arrows that have struck the carriage and then moved to the kingdom of Farmus¨Cthe kingdom of barbarians.

 26 The kingdom

    Kael and his team survived the enemies'' ambush. They continued the path towards the Kingdom of the barbarian. They arrived at the checkpoint, the guards have bulging muscles and they are armed with spears. They have metal breastplate on their chest and a helm that was made of steel. They have undergarment of leather and a foot-guard on their feet. They wear satchels on both of their foot.


    "What''s your purpose?", the guard that is a tad bigger from the other one asked the merchant.


    The merchant handed his papers for entry and then the guard lets them pass.


    "They were merchants.", said the guard that was holding the paper.


    Kael as well as the others went back to the carriage and resumes their travel.


    "Hiya!!!", Yelled the driver to the horse as he whips them.


    The carriage then resumed its travel towards their kingdom. On their way, there were many laborers that were making the roads into bricks. They pass them by and the roads they are traveling on were now bricks. The road was now not bumpy and there are more barbarians that can be seen. They are naturally well-built and are born warriors. Every single one of them was capable of warfare but they humbly love peace.


    "Say, Fred, do you know what happened exactly why the war broke out?", Kael asked Fred.


    "It was the Dwight King that wanted to rule all the races of Lumia. He was smart and sly. He managed to convince the barbarians and Skulds to attack the Demi-humans, they were stopped by the strongest races called beast-men. Specifically the Druids, Vampires, and Lycans. They have the strength to do so.", Fred said to him.


    "So that means the strongest races are the beast-men?", he asked.


    "The strongest are the Dragons. They can eradicate an entire city with just one of them. They were divided into two groups, the Elemental Dragons and the Black Dragons. The Black Dragons are the evil ones and they are warring with each other since the beginning. The Elemental Dragons were neutral and doesn''t bother other races. They were generally friendly and helpful to humans when the evil dragons pronounced war with the humans.", Fred said to him.


    "So the greatest are the Dragons?", He then asked him.


    "They were the strongest if we don''t include divine beings, specifically the Angels.", he concluded.


    "So Angels were the strongest", Kael said.


    "Yep, they were all S-class and above. The weakest Angel were S-class minus and the strongest were triple S-class plus.", Fred said to him.


    Kael was surprised by his knowledge about the strongest beings. They were happily talking with each other on the rest of their journey.


    They nearing the kingdom''s walls and they are towering from afar. The walls were built with bricks and they are three-story high. The walls have spikes and there were many spikes on its foundation that serves as a good defense.


    They have arrived near the gates and they were inspected of their belongings. The gates were big with the size of a three-story building. It has a red-colored gate that was decorated with axes. The gate was opened wide and they have guards within.


    The merchant brought his papers and was requested to pass through by the guards. The guards were towering and had a height of seven-footers. With their body that has outgrown muscles, they give off a fearsome aura.


    They passed through the checkpoint and the citizens were doing their own job. They arrived at their market and it looked underdeveloped but it was bustling with people. With just cloth and wood, they made their stalls out of it.


    They arrived at the meeting place of retailers and merchants.


    The merchant talked with the retailers that want to buy his goods.


    "I will purchase a crate of apples.", said the man with a mustache.


    "A crate of wine please!", said the man with commoner wear.


    "We would like to purchase three crates of cabbage.", said the merchant girl.


    "Wait a minute, I will get it ready.", he said to them.


    "Please carry them out please!", he instructed them.


    They carried the crates and then all the items were sold out. The sun is about to set and they have to check-in to an inn. They left their carriage to the guards.


    Kael and the adventurers went to find an inn. They found one and it has a wooden plank that was hanging and it has letters engraved to it, "The Turtle Inn".


    "Hey guys this will be our lodge for the night, I''ve left our carriage to the guards for it to be secured.", the merchant said.


    They went inside and the inn that was lighted with candles and lamps. Night came and the rest to their rooms. Kael washed first with hot water and wears his nightwear. He went to the window side and was looking at the window side. It was a habit of his to watch the stars before getting to sleep. The stars brightly lit the skies and the moon was on its peak, he contemplated his journey this day and then went to bed.

 27 Ambush again

    Kael waked up and then he pushed-ups hundred times. He exercised to build his strength while he''s still young. Kael washed then changed clothes for his new day. He went outside and then closed the door of his room. He met his other adventurer friends while he walks downstairs.


    "Hey, good morning!", said the mage.


    "Good morning too! How''s your sleep?", Kael asked.


    "It''s good!", he replied.


    "The others?", Kael asked.


    "They were waiting in the carriage. Let''s catch up with them. Don''t worry, we have launched at the carriage on hand.", the mage said to him.


    They traveled to the carriage and then met with the others.


    "Have you eaten yet? We have freshly baked bread here. Let''s eat while we''re on our way.", said Fred.


    "Okay, so let''s go!", said Kael.


    They went inside the carriage and then they ate their food.


    Kael was silent on the rest of the way. He was pondering why the war broke out and why the human king was greedy of ruling all the races.


    They passed through the bricks road of the barbarians, the laborers were not present this time and they all were relaxed. The road was again bumpy and their relaxed mood ends there. The construction was still unfinished. Kael was sitting at the back while whistling a happy song. They all enjoyed their ride and the party''s morale went up.


    "What did you observed at the barbarians Kael? They are prideful but peace-loving people aren''t they?", Fred asked him.


    "Yep they were rather a peaceful kind of people but be careful not to offend them. They were a bunch of battle maniacs.", their priest said to Kael.


    "Really?", Kael replied.


    "Yep, don''t make them angry", their mage said.


    "Okay!", Kael replied.


    Kael engraved it on his mind and remembered it. It was better to remember their advice because they will be a great help in the future.


    They were traveling and they saw a carriage that was blocking the way. It was full of arrows and holes and was severely damaged.


    "Halt!", said the driver as he stopped the horse.


    "Check for survivors! But be careful of another ambush", Fred said to them.


    Kael went outside together with their paladin and their leader. Their ranger was watching the cliffs and was ready to alarm them anytime. Their mage was also ready to fire a spell anytime.


    The knight and paladin raised their shields and approached step by step. They scanned the surroundings and saw that the horse was not there.


    "They were ambushed for sure.", said their leader.


    "Probably bandits, barbarian bandits. Look at the carriage, it has marks left by axes.", said the paladin.


    The approached the door and then on Fred''s signal, they kicked the door. They looked at the inside and saw nothing. Only bloodstains that littered the floor were left for them.


    "Well that was anti-climatic!", said Kael.


    After Kael said it, their ranger shouted.


    "Arrows!", he screamed.


    Kael and the others take cover and their ranger fires at them.


    Rapid shot!


    He initiated a skill that fires rapidly for three seconds. He killed four after the skill expires. He then takes cover after they rained their arrows at him.


    The barbarian bandits then ambushed them. They were hiding at the bushes, some were at the broken trees. Some jumped at the cliff.


    Rarrrrrr!!!


    They all screamed while holding their axes.


    "Regroup!", shouted Fred


    Kael and the others went back their carriage to regroup.


    "We''re surrounded! Again!", Kael screamed.


    He draws his sword then defended their selves. The enemies were numbered twenty plus and they were only six.


    Fireball!


    Shield flash!


    Slash!


    Rapid shot!


    They used their skills to kill the enemies.


    It killed five of the enemies that were hit by a fireball and rapid shot. Their enemies were blinded by the light so they have time to attack them. They killed another five before the blinding flash wears off. Ten were left that were unscathed.


    The enemies also initiated their skills.


    Berserk!


    Fury!


    They rapidly slammed their axes to them and they were at pinch. Kael rapidly slashes together with them.


    Prrrrrriiiiiiiinnnnngggggg!!!


    Sounded their weapons and shields.


    Kael coped up with their slashes but was slowly tired out due to their heavy strikes and it was fast. He successfully wounded one but he was injured too by three slashes of axes on his hands.


    "Axe slam!", said the barbarian who made his skill; Slashing it vertically.


    Kael defended them and his sword almost broke due to the impact. He managed to defend it but his strength was almost used up.


    "Skills were really troublesome.", he exclaimed in his mind.


    Fred slammed his shield then slashed his enemy. Killing it with a deep wound.


    Johansenn fires his arrow to the enemy but he blocked it with his axe. Andre fires his fireball and it struck the one who Kael was dueling. Kael ducked at the right time and struck the other one.


    The priest healed Kael with the "minor heal" and his wounds on his hands have disappeared. Kael didn''t waste time then immediately attacked.


    Estes, the paladin slams his hammer to his enemy.


    "Hammer smash!"


    "Shield smash!"


    He landed his strike to his enemy and then slammed his shield. The enemy was thrown to the impact.


    "Seven left!", shouted Fred


    "Kill them all!", shouted the barbarian leader.


    They again attacked and were fiercer than before.


    "You wanna die! then die!", shouted Fred


    They attacked and then the knight and paladin who were positioned in the front, held their shields with greater strength. They attacked and Kael was protecting the priest and mage.


    The fight continued. Their knight and paladin blocked their attacks and then Kael was behind them.


    Bang! bang! bang!


    Kael held his sword and then attacked it together with them. He jumped and then slashed one of them vertically. He killed one and then retreated in the opposite direction. They occupied two and Kael occupied another two.


    "Come here scumbags!", he exclaimed.


    The barbarian bandits attacked him. Kael approached them while holding his sword. He turned and slashed one then another. They are wounded and then blood gushed out from their body. Kael then approached one from behind and pierced him from the back.


    "Damn you!", the other barbarian blurted out in anger.


    Kael then went behind him and knocked him out with his hands from his nape.

 28 Hideou

    Kael tied him up and they surrounded him. Kael poured a bucket of water at him to wake him up.


    "Whoa!", he shouted as the cold water splashed into his face.


    "Why did you ambush us!?", shouted Fred at him.


    "I won''t tell!", he shouted.


    "Hump, well if you won''t tell us then one finger will be cut if you won''t reply.", Fred said to him.


    "I won''t tell you!", he said.


    Fred made a hand sign to cut his fingers.


    "Okay!", Kael replied to him as he brandished his daggers.


    He grabs his hands and then he yelled.


    "Where is your hideout!?"


    "To the Munjako mines!!!", the barbarian yelled in panic.


    "The hideout was at the Munjako mines. We were just only ordered to ambush merchants for their merchandise. Please I''m begging you! I have a family to feed!", he shouted


    "Hey boss, what do we do?", Kael asked Fred.


    "Tie him up and report him to the guards. Kael reports this to the guards. Estes, as well as Johansen come with me. We will go to the hideout. Andre and Emily, you guard this prisoner.", said Fred to his party.


    "Okay sir, I will go now", said Kael


    He dashed towards the way and was hastily running. He gulped stamina potion and restored his stamina. He throws the bottle and then dashed again. He passed by a couple of people and they saw him running. He saw that the kingdom was near. He saw patrolling guards on the way thus he talked to them.


    "Hey, guards! we''ve captured one of the bandits at the roads. We are on our way to their hideout.", he said to them.


    "What? where''s their hideout? they were in danger! Reckless fools you want to be heroes? You attacked their hideout without asking for help?", shouted one of the guards.


    "Yes please help us!", Kael said to them.


    "Where are they now?", he asked


    "On the road towards the Dwight.", Kael said to them.


    "Let''s hurry, go to the barracks and I will go with this child", he said to one of his companions.


    Kael together with the barbarian guard went on their way. There was a small road to the left that goes to the Munjako mines. They traveled towards the path. It was a forest that has thick leaves on its canopy. The road can be seen by the naked eye, it meant that there are people using the road.


    "Be on your guard, we''re near to it", the guard said to him.


    "Don''t worry, I''m a captain!", he said to Kael.


    "That would be great but can we really kill them with our numbers? At least we need to wait for the reinforcement."


    "Is a captain that capable to hunt them? I wonder where was his confidence coming from.", Kael was in thought.


    They saw the mines have a door and there are two torches that were put between the door. It was not lit due to the reason that it is daytime. The door has a handle and it has a little window. Kael and the guard approached with caution, they sneaked towards the door and the captain pulled the handle of the door.


    Creak! bang!


    He fiercely opened the door and it created a loud sound. He lifted the door like its nothing.


    "Wanna come in?", he said.


    Kael nearly laughed. He never imagined him to be so strong.


    Kael went inside and then he saw a dark tunnel leading towards a cave. The walls have webs and they crawled the walls. Kael then saw torches that were put on the walls.


    They traveled the path and was sneakily walking the tunnel. Kael sneaks silently but the barbarian captain was making noise. By the end of the tunnel, they saw guards that were drinking that has fallen to the floor. They examined them and in their surprise, they have arrows at the back of their skulls.


    They have gold coins that amounted to seven pieces and an ax and an arrow with its quiver. Kael equipped the bow and quiver.


    "They were near", said the barbarian captain.


    The cave has torches on its walls and the ceiling was unseen due to the light can''t reach its distance. They traveled the path towards the cave and saw a lever and towards it has a bridge that was tilting from the other side.


    We have to push the lever for the bridge to fall and make a way towards the other side.


    Kael pushed the lever and then the bridge attaches its other side.


    Clank!


    They managed to make it attached but the guards on the other side were alerted.


    "Who''s that!", he said from the other side.


    Kael fires his arrow and it pierced one on its skull. They run towards the bridge and the captain assaulted them. They were numbered five individuals and they are armed with shields.


    "They were readily equipped this time.", Kael said in his mind.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    The arrows hit their iron shields but it didn''t hit their body.


    Raaaaarrrr!!!


    The Barbarian captain yelled as he strikes them with his axes. He slashed the one who comes first and the other.


    [Slash!] [Slash!]


    Two went down to the bridge as they were killed. He duels another two and was not pushed back. On the other hand, he was the one who pushes them.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    The guard captain hits them hard with his ax and their shields were worn out. He kicked one of them and He was thrown. The other one used "shield bash" but the captain stepped back a little to evade his strike.


    [Double slash!]


    A skill of barbarians that requires double wield weapons to be executed.


    [Slash!] [Slash!]


    The bandit fell as he was struck to the neck and the chest.


    They went down to the bridge as the captain thrown their dead bodies to the water.


    Kael felt he was unneeded by the captain to slaughter them.


    "Is this how strong a barbarian captain of their army?", he said in his mind.


    Kael went together with the captain and crossed the bridge. They encompassed deeper in the tunnel and later on saw that there were prison cells that were used to hold the prisoners.


    They went to examine one by one and saw that they have prisoners.


    "Help us!", said the frail woman at her cell.


    They also saw dead people due to malnourishment.


    There were seven people in the cells and they were all imprisoned.


    "Hey can I ask? have you seen people that passed by?", Kael asked them.


    "Yeah, they were numbered three. They passed us by without helping us. Please let us go.", said the other frail-looking guy in his mid-thirties.


    "Well, breaking their cell doors was easy", the captain said as he pulled the doors.


    Creak! Bing!


    He successfully breaks their door.


    "Leave while you can, we might catch up with them if hurry up", the captain said to them.


    They went outside one by one. Kael let the drank health potion and cure disease. His potions have run out of health potions and cure disease. Luckily he has enough but he can''t use health potion later on.


    They went to the exit, Kael and The captain continued on their way towards the headquarters of the enemies. Kael still equipped his sword on his back while drawing the arrow from his bow that he looted from the enemy.

 29 Enemy camp

    Kael and the captain were walking to the tunnel and then stumbled upon their warehouse. It has many crates that has many goods inside. Kael looked inside one of the crates and luckily found three health potions and one mana potion. He also found stamina potion and twenty gold coins.


    "We have to hurry, they probably arrived to the headquarters.", the barbarian captain said to Kael.


    "Let''s go", Kael said to him as a reply.


    He finished looting and immediately went to the way towards their headquarters. The atmosphere was cold and the wind blew towards them.


    They exited the cave but in to their surprise, It was a camp of bandits.


    "Kill them!", shouted one of the bandit by the distance.


    "They''re near, we must hurry", said the captain to Kael.


    They went outside and they found their other party members. They were surrounded but still able to fend the enemies off. They were exhausted by the fight that lasted for minutes. The enemies were numbered twelve and they were cornered.


    Johansenn has no arrow left and Estes and Fred was battered with their axes. Due to the situation, the barbarian captain immediately rushed to them.


    The barbarian captain immediately equiped his axes. He was an axe dual-wielder.


    Kael immediately followed him hastily.


    "Hey wait!", Kael exclaimed.


    "Darn it, he sure is a battle maniac", Kael exclaimed in his self.


    [Berserk!]


    [Fury!]


    He initiated his buff and his attack speed rised.


    He charges at them.


    [Axe slam!]


    He slammed his axe to them. Making his first victim killed by his skill. He rapidly slashed his enemies and killed two immediately. Nine enemies left.


    "We will never back down on this challenge. Let''s not lose ourselves on how many kills he get. Let''s kill them too!", Fred said to them.


    Johansenn equiped his dual-wield curved dagger and throws his bow.


    "Yeah! we wont back down!", said Johansenn.


    [Pierce charge!]


    Fred killed one and Estes used his skill "[Hammer slam]". He bash his enemy''s skull and it killed him.


    [Fury!]


    The enemy used their skill and then slammed their axes to their shields. Johansenn used his skill "[Double dagger thrust]". He reverse grip the dagger and jumped at his enemy and thrust his dagger to his neck. The dagger pierced his leather armor that has least protection.


    They killed three and there''s six left. Kael Charges from the enemies and then he regrouped to his teammates.


    "What took you so long?", Fred asked him.


    "Looting!", he replied.


    "What? nevermind let''s kill them first an then let''s talk later.", Fred said to him.


    Kael launched their attacks towards the enemies. Kael armed with sword, swings it to his enemy.


    He dueled one, one to Johansenn, two to Fred and two to the captain.


    He thrusts his sword and then stepped back to evade the axe of his enemy.


    Ting! ting!


    Their weapons clashed with each other.


    He made a double slanted slash and it was defended by his enemy.


    "Dueling was trickier than killing monsters. They were capable of defending their selves.", Kael exclaimed in his mind.


    Kael immediately focused his attacks on vital spots. He thrusts his sword to his joints which has longer reach and it was proven effective. Due to the axe was a weapon used more on offense and it was difficult to use it to defend.


    Kael landed a thrust on the left shoulder. The enemy immediately lost strength on the left arm. The enemy struggled to lift his axe but Kael barraged his swings to the enemy.


    Ting! Slash! Ting!


    The enemy barely blocked his strikes. He wounded the enemy by seven strikes and then he collapsed to the ground.


    The barbarian captain massacred his enemies. He used all his strength with each strike he made. He was panting due to the exhaustion.


    Kael gave him his stamina potion then he gulped it.


    Johansenn was still battling his enemy. Rangers were a versatile class, they can shoot long ranged and can melee his enemies. With a combo of his two daggers, he evades and strikes the unprotected part of the armor of the enemy¨Cwhich were located at the joints.


    The barbarian slashed his axe but Johansenn ducked and slashed his achilles heels. The enemy immediately was on his knees.


    [Double dagger thrust!]


    He jumped and stabbed him on the neck while he landed on the shoulders.


    He killed his enemy and Estes was still battling.


    [Shield flash!]


    His shield flashed then he used his hammer slam. The enemy immediately covered his eyes and then Estes slammed his hammer to his skull. The enemy staggered and then he slammed again his hammer to the barbarian.


    [Berserk!]


    The Barbarian was tenacious and he used his last skill "[Berserk]", Estes used his skill shield bash to the barbarian and he staggered. The barbarian used his skill "[Fury]" to attack Estes. Estes blocked it with his shield.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The barbarian was exhausted and his head was bloody. Estes then hammered him again in the body and he was thrown.


    Fred dueled two at the same time. He was basically shielding their attacks to tire them out but his arm was getting weary due to blocking their attacks. He immediately used his "[Piercing charge]" to the other barbarian then "[Shield charge]" to the other.


    He immediately killed the one who was pierced and then the other one has flinched. He then slashed him after he used "[Shield charge]" at him.


    The enemy did not back down and he retaliated with his axe. Fred blocked it and then he pierced him with his sword.


    "You will be damned! our leader arrive here later. You will all be killed. We sent our distress signal and he will come! He is coming! Urg!", he said as he let out his last breath.


    Kael drank a stamina potion to recover his stamina.


    They finished killing them but they are in danger if they will not move now.


    "Let''s go!", Fred said as he dashed to the tunnel.


    He hasn''t stepped yet when a horn blew in the distance.


    Tooooooorrrrrrrrrrttttttttttttt!!!

 30 Enemy reinforcemen

    Tooooorrrrrttttttttt!!!


    The sound of the horn enveloped the surrounding. They nearly panicked, Kael looted the barbarian bandits and has looted ten gold coins.


    The sound of the bandits is getting nearer and nearer.


    "They have reinforcement this fast?", Fred asked his self.


    "Kill them!", shouted their leader.


    Arrows rained in the air.


    "Shields!", Kael shouted.


    Kael grabbed as well as others grabbed the shields of the ones they killed. He lifted his shield and arrows rained in their shields.


    Tok! Tok! Tok!


    Kael blocked some incoming arrows but he received an arrow in his foot. The arrows stopped and the Bandits charged towards them.


    Nguk!


    He exclaimed as he pulled out the arrow that has stuck on his foot.


    He gulped a health potion to heal himself.


    "Let''s retreat!", shouted Fred.


    "Kael and other shield bearers cover; As for non-shield bearers retreat!", he commanded.


    Johansenn and the Captain retreated and Kael, Fred, and Estes cover them.


    They are lifting their shields as they walk backward to retreat.


    Tok! Tok! Tok! Tok! Tok!


    Johansenn shouted, "we''re cornered!". He saw that there were also bandits at the entrance of the cave.


    "Regroup!", Fred shouted again.


    They regrouped and they were surrounded.


    "Let''s fight our way through!", the Captain shouted.


    Kael was lifting his shield and then the barbarians assaulted. All of them were numbered fifty. More than the double amount of their past enemy.


    Raarrrrr!!!


    Shoulder charge!


    They shoulder charged their defense and the shield bearers were struck by their big body. Kael was thrown off due to his small body.


    The barbarians have a two-handed axe and they have a chest plate made of iron. Some have big shields and a two-handed sword on the other hand.


    "They can one hand the two-handed weapon?", Kael questioned.


    They were thrown to the ground and Kael immediately stands up. Estes was a bit dizzy due to his face was hit by his own shield when he was struck.


    Fred managed to be pushed but not being thrown. The enemy slammed their axe. Fred''s shield was hammered and his arms almost break. He used his "shield charge" to his enemy but it has no effect. The enemy slashed his two-handed axe to Fred and he was slashed in the chest.


    "Fred!!!", Kael shouted


    Estes was infuriated and used his trump card.


    "Divine armor"


    This paladin skill can make the user as hard as iron for ten seconds. His defense shoot up higher and then he charged to the one who injured Fred. He slammed his hammer and shield slammed his enemy.


    The captain used his Berserk and his attack speed shoots up. He double slashed his enemy at the front and repeats it.


    Kael on the contrary used his "strength potion". He used it to rival the strength of the barbarians. It has a thirty seconds effect and Kael clashed with the others.


    Due to his mastery of the swords, he can fight toe to toe with them. Estes was struck with two-handed axes and his shield was battered.


    Pang! Pang! Pang!


    Johansenn on the contrary picked up a bow and arrows. He fired them to the enemies. He killed two immediately.


    Hammer Slam!


    Shield Slam!


    He charges to his enemies. Kael and the captain charges together with him. The barbarian two-handed axe user slashed him but he blocked it with his sword. He kicked him and then he went back to Fred.


    Fred was bloody and his chest plate armor was slashed through by the two-handed axe. Kael gave him a health potion to take.


    He drank it and throws the bottle. His wounds healed and then he gets back up. Estes'' buff was fading and he was battered.


    Two-handed slash!


    The barbarian used his skill and Estes'' shield broke to pieces.


    Two-handed slash!


    Two-handed slash!


    Two "two-handed slash" cleaved through Estes''s armor and he was down. The captain launched his "fury" skill and killed seven.


    Johansenn evades and fires his arrows. He killed three and then used his skill "rapid shot".


    Chuk! chuk! chuk!


    He struck three barbarians that were aiming for his teammates.


    Kael slammed his sword to one of the two hander wielders. He was able to stop the strike and he immediately slashed him in the waist.


    He slashed one after another. He charges towards the fray. He aims to kill the leader but he finds it difficult to do it.


    The captain overwhelms his enemies and he killed his way through. He kicked one and then shoulder charges them. Johansenn has run out of ammo. He then used his skill "arrow recall". His arrows then came back to him. Johansenn fires his arrows by using "rapid shot".


    He killed another five, Kael was still rushing but he retreated due to the barrage of slashes he was fending off.


    "I can''t really imagine how can we survive this.", Kael said in his self.


    Estes was down and then Kael gave him a health potion. Only one health potion was left. The barbarian captain was killing his way through but the leader of the bandits jumped in his direction.


    "So you''ve decided to show yourself!", said the barbarian captain.


    They clashed and the bandit leader slammed his two-handed axe. The captain blocked it but the bandit leader kicked him. He was thrown to the ground. Estes who was recently injured attacked together with Fred.


    Berserk!


    Fury


    The bandit leader used his skill and he rammed their shields.


    Their arms almost broke and they were thrown by the blow. Fred and Estes again stood up and attacked but their shields were shattered by his "two-handed slash".


    Johansenn rapidly fired at him but he blocked them with his axe. Kael charges at him and slashed him. His sword slides in his axe and slashed him at his waist.


    "Huh! you want to slash my armor? You might die trying!", he exclaimed loudly.


    Kael retreated and then drank another strength potion. The strength potion that he drank earlier was fading.


    He charges and then Fred, Estes, and the captain launched their attacks too. Kael clashed his sword with his axe and then Fred launched his skill "piercing charge" and Estes used his skill "hammer slam".


    Estes combined their attacks but it was for naught. He evaded them all and then he used his skill "two-handed cleave". He hits them all including Kael.


    Kael''s leather armor was hit and it was damaged severely. He felt that his chest was bleeding so he drank his last health potion. Fred and Estes were thrown by the cleave but were unharmed; only dizzy for a bit.


    Kael and the others were lying on the ground and were helplessly getting up. Kael thrusts his sword to the ground to get up and he stood as well as the others.


    "Is that all? We''ve come to this camp to see who''s attacking us but in my dismay, it was all amateurs. Don''t worry, your death will be painless.", he said to them.


    He lifts his axe high and aims to Kael.


    Chok!


    An arrow hits his back and thus he looked to where it came from.


    "Sneaky bastard! I''m gonna butcher you to pieces!" he said to Johansenn as he turned around.


    He was aiming to Johansenn and charges to him but he heard a loud horn.


    Trrooooooootttttt!!!


    "The reinforcement!", The captain said.


    The kingdom soldiers arrived with a flag they are waving.

 31 Reinforcemen

    Kael as well as the others felt relieved. He smiled and the soldiers came rushing towards them. They came from the cave and as well as the outer side of the camp. All numbered three hundred. They are armed and ready to kill. Kael as well as the others ducked to the ground.


    "Retreat!", shouted the barbarian leader.


    "Kill anyone who retreats, leave no one alive!", shouted the commander who was wearing a silver-plated armor.


    They clashed with them.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    The barbarian captain then approached the commander.


    "Barmuth, reporting for duty!", he said as he kneeled.


    "Carry on! Report!", he said.


    "The enemies were confirmed the bandits of the Farmus. With the help of the adventurers of Dwight, we located their hideout.", he said while still on his knees.


    "Thank you for your report! Let me handle this mess.", he said to him.


    The bandit leader was cornered by three barbarian elites. They rapidly slashed him with their axes until he became a corpse.


    The fight was still going on and the bandit leader was killed without a fight by barbarian elites. They finished fighting in a majestic way.


    "They fought like Spartans in Ancient Greece.", Kael said in his self.


    Kael coughed when he realized he was a frog in the well not knowing the vastness of the ocean. He pondered in the self of his powerlessness. He cleaned the dust in his dress and approached to the commander. The others also approached him. He greeted the commander.


    "Thank you, commander, for saving us!", he said as he bows at him.


    "We didn''t save you, child! Were only apprehending the criminals that were attacking you that''s all! Men let''s leave and burn this place. Confiscate their items because it belonged to the kingdom.", he executed his order.


    They confiscated their belongings and then burned the camp. The barbarian captain then said goodbye because he joined their ranks.


    "I''m sorry because you''re not rewarded for your efforts. We will meet again sometime if you want. I will say my goodbye because I have to report to my officers. Well thanks for everything", he said to them as he runs to the marching army of the Farmus.


    "Well, thanks for saving us!", shouted Fred


    "Goodbye sir!", said Estes.


    "Goodbye!", said Kael.


    "So, guys. What are we gonna do now?", asked Kael.


    "Let''s leave this stinking place.", said Fred.


    "Of course! Of course!", said Estes.


    They left the cave and then went outside the mines.


    They met with the others in the way.


    "Andre! Emily! We missed you!", exclaimed Estes.


    "How''s it going?", Emily asked.


    "We nearly died back there, ask Estes and the others.", he said to her.


    "Luckily we have Kael that rushes at us and giving potions", Fred said to Emily.


    Fred and Estes grabbed Kael and they put him between their armpits then pats his head.


    "We were lucky that the reinforcement arrived before we were butchered to bits by that barbarian bandit.", Kael said to Emily.


    "We should be heading back now, the merchant and the driver were waiting for us", said Andre.


    "Yeah! We should go now!", added Emily.


    They went to the carriage as well as the others. They traveled untill they fell asleep due to exhaustion. Only Andre and Emily were still alive and kicking. They couldn''t find a way to sleep on their journey.


    They successfully completed the mission, then went back again to the borders. Thankfully, they didn''t meet any monsters on the way back. They successfully came returned to the Dwight Kingdom. They received their rewards, which they deserved in the escort mission after they went to the adventurer guild.

 32 News

    Kael went to the adventurers guild the next morning. He managed to survive his past mission and his teammates were safe. He was walking and he has comfortable clothes, he has leather armor with robes in the outside. He didn''t enchant his items but used them as they are. If it has an enchantment, well he used them but didn''t add anything. He met people on the way and he greeted them with a good morning.


    He arrived at the adventurers guild and walks to the entrance. He saw that it has many people that day. He walks to the counter for a new assignment when he was called by the mission receptionist.


    "Sir Kael Melvin, you have a new update! you''re promoted!", she said cheerfully.


    "Your rank went up to G to F plus due to accomplishing the escort mission and discovering and raiding one of the barbarian bandit''s hideout! Please give me your Adventurer Window card for your rank update!", she said briefly.


    Kael finds his window card in his backpack and gave it to her.


    "Here it is", he said as he handed it to her.


    "Please wait a minute as we handle it.", she said


    Kael waited on the seats that were used for the waiting adventurers for their transactions.


    He waited for three minutes and the card update was finished. Kael went to the desk and the card was handed to him.


    "Your card sir!", she said as she holds his card with two hands.


    "Thank you!", Kael said as he grabs it with two hands.


    "You can now pick monster subjugation and monster extermination. Congratulations!", she said as she handed it to him.


    He watched his adventurer card and it looked like this.


    ...


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 14


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (22) +


    Dexterity (27) +


    Vitality (27) +


    Focus (77) +


    Stats points: 42


    ....


    Kael saved his stat points for the future. It was for emergencies. His base points were leveling up by one by every level up and it was leveling up when he trains his body. Basically, his normal strength was 14 but it grows to 22 when he trained his body. His focus has risen to 77 because of his mana cultivation and focus enhancement.


    He went to pick his mission and he picks Kobold extermination.


    Kobold extermination. Details¨Ckill 20 Kobolds of the Hentana caves. Time requirement¨Cone week. Place¨CHentana cave. Rewards¨C20 silvers


    He went to the mission desk to submit his mission.


    "This mission please!", he said to her.


    "Oh! kobold extermination! You are good at picking!", she said to him.


    "Please come back safely!", she said to him while smiling.


    "Yes, I will. Thank you for your concern", Kael said to her while smiling.


    Kael left the guild and then walked in the streets. He was going for his mission but he saw a pigeon that was carrying a letter on it''s back. The pigeon landed on his arms and Kael opened the container. He went back to the ugly duckling in to read the letter while still carrying the bird.


    He went inside his room and then reads it.


    "Dear Mael, The constructions were all underway. We recruited all the beggars and they all have work now. From the kids to the elderly, they have all work now. The mining operations have doubled the output. As well as the steelworks. The recruits on our army were going nice as well. The port construction has begun as well as our agricultural practices and food preservation. The people were happy and the morale of the army was high. The tax collection was low this time but it will rise due to the employment was high. There are many people that migrate to our town and the constructions were on the way. The town was getting bigger and bigger as time goes by and it is just the start. We were all right here and my tummy is getting bigger. It''s alright and we were fine here. Your loving mother, Erza.", Kael said as he reads them.


    Kael writes the letters and was happy that everything''s all right. He writes a reply letter to her.


    "I''m glad to hear everything''s alright, I doing great here. I''ve recently become an F rank adventurer. My level went up to fourteen and I''m getting stronger. The dungeons investigation was still on my list-to-do and I knew that there were others like me that closed the dungeons. They managed to close the gates like me. I am doing great here and I''ve met other adventurers on the way here and on my mission. All is well and I know you''re worried to me but all is well. Your loving son, Mael.", he replied.


    He puts it to the container and then feeds the pigeon. He waited for minutes then the pigeon flies back to the sender.


    Kael was happy to hear that Golden Valley was alright and he goes back to his mission and leaves the inn. He hops on the way and goes to the Hentana Cave.

 33 Hentana cave

    Kael went to the Hentana caves to hunt kobolds. He has to kill twenty kobolds and retrieve their right ear as evidence that he killed them. Kael was currently on the outside of the Hentana cave. The adventurers are going in and out of the cave and there are others that were selling items. The cave was located in the Hentana forest and Kael was just in the entrance.


    He has steel sword and daggers, as well as chains wrapped in his arms. He purchased potions like health potions and strength potions¨Call were five each.


    He was ready to fight anytime and the first five levels were an area for training the newbie adventurers. Kael went inside and he has the experience in fighting. The boss was located at the tenth level and many veteran adventurers died at the boss'' hands. They call him Dreadpaw, the first five levels were safe and he sometimes went to the six-level but not on the first five.


    Kael went inside and the smell of the air was like a smell of unwashed dogs. The stick was disgusting but tolerable. He walks to the cave and the cave was illuminated by glowing stones. It helped the adventurers to see and they were not carrying torches¨Cwhich was troublesome. Kael walked the first level and then he met kobold that carries pickaxe. It was currently mining the glowing stone on the first level. Kael grabbed his attention by whistling at him.


    Tweeewwwwweeettttt!


    Kael draws his sword and then attacked. The kobold miner panicked and attacks with his pickaxe but Kael slashed him at the belly as he passed through. The miner wants to fight head-on but he felt the pain as his blood gushed out from his body. It crashed on the ground and Kael removes his right ear.


    "One down.", he said.


    As he was removing the ear. He heard howls on a near distance. They were fast approaching and then Kael was surrounded. They recognized their brethren and they were angered by it. They have a strong bond with their brethren and killing one of them was a triggering effect for their bloodlust.


    Kael was surrounded by five kobolds that were using a shovel and pickaxes. Kael tightened his grip on his sword. They launched their attacks and Kael evaded the first attack. It was a shovel that was used to be a weapon. He dodges then slashed him.


    Their attacks barraged and Kael evaded them. The kobolds were annoyed. He blocks some of their attacks and dodges some.


    Kael felt relaxed when he was evading. He has expected their incoming attacks and he reads them.


    Whoosh! Whoosh!


    He focused on evading and wants to regain his past self''s quickness by testing his enemies.


    "Still not close to the past but it was enough to evade these monsters.", he said to himself.


    Kael finished testing them and later on attacks them.


    He slashed them one by one. Kael was dismayed to their clumsiness. He killed the first one to strike by beheading it. The others trembled but didn''t back down. They attacked and Kael kicked one of the attackers. Then he stabs his steel sword to one of the enemies. Three left, he strikes with accuracy in his enemy. Slashing its belly to half. The others attacked too. He slashed and it cleaved to the two enemies. Kael immediately beheads them.


    He collected their ears and their cores then he left. Kael then went to the second level.

 34 Second level

    Kael went downstairs towards the second level. He met other adventurers at the stairs. They were a combination of Warrior, Priest, Rogue, Knight, Mage.


    The Warrior was wearing a silver helmet and he has a read hair. The Priest wears white robes as all priests do. He has silver hair, white skin, and a handsome face. The Rouge was plain-looking but he has hood on his robes that were covering his head. The Knight has a large steel shield and has a large build. His armor was bulky and he was a sight to behold. The mage was wearing a red robe and didn''t carry a staff. He has white gloves and he has eyeglasses. He was cool if the girls will say.


    They just finished their quest of killing kobolds. Kael saw torches on the walls and he walks in the stairs while his steps were making a sound.


    Tik! Tok! Tik! Tok!


    The adventurers successfully arrived on the first floor and the stairs were quite. Kael has his backpack that was weightless because he enchanted it with "weightlessness". It will not hinder his agility in the slightest bit. Kael was happily walking when he arrived at the entrance of the second level. Kael saw the vast space of the cave and there he saw the glowing stones that hang in the walls and the ceiling. He didn''t saw enemies yet but he didn''t lose his focus.


    At this level, the enemies were carrying swords and they were much agile. It was what he heard from the previous adventurers.


    Kael grabs a potion on his potion belt. It was a monster attractant. He pours the monster attractant potion to his sword and then he smiled.


    He waited for a minute and then the enemies appeared.


    "One, two, three, five, ten! they were ten!", he spoke with excitement.


    "Let me see if you can entertain me!", he said again.


    Kael dashed forwards while drawing his sword. The enemies surrounded him and they were armed with swords. He slashed and then his sword was blocked. The kobolds were strong and they were armed with swords.


    Ting!


    Their swords clanged as they met. Kael underestimated his enemies.


    Rawr!


    The kobold growled as it strikes with his sword. Kael kicked the kobold that repelled his strike and then repelled the one who strikes him. He was surrounded, so he needs to break their encirclement.


    He dashed forwards and then slashed his enemy in the front. It was wounded so he retreated.


    Ting! Ting!


    Kael repelled two at once. He slashed the other one and he successfully wounded it. The enemies were aggressive than usual because of the monster attractant. Kael then strikes with his sword to the other two in his back. He initiated vertical slash and he succeeded in wounding them. Blood gushed out from their necks and they went down after a second.


    Kael immediately rushed to the enemies. He slashed much faster than before and it surprised the enemies. He successfully slashed the chest of the kobold.


    He didn''t stop there and then slashed the other two in a flash and then the other two in succession.


    He executed a slash again but he runs out of stamina. He has three enemies left.


    Kael breaths heavily and his legs were weary. He thrusts his sword to the ground and he inhaled.


    The three enemies simultaneously attacked and then Kael slashed horizontally¨Ccleaving them all.


    He whips his sword to drain the blood and then puts it to the scabbard. He draws his dagger and then collected ten ears. With the five on hand, he has fifteen.


    He removes their cores and then puts it to his backpack. Kael then takes a look at his adventurer window card. It glowed and it says "you''ve leveled up!".


    ...


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 15


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (23) +


    Dexterity (28) +


    Vitality (28) +


    Focus (78) +


    Stats points: 45


    .....


    "Wow, it was fast! Leveling up already?", he said in his mind.


    Kael then found out that there are many more kobolds that has sniffed the monster attractant. He was surrounded.


    "Damn I forgot they were dogs", he said in his mind.

 35 Second level part 2

    He was surrounded by enemies. Eyes glared in the darkness and they glowed in dark red color. One by one, they showed their faces and it filled the cave into full of Kobolds. Kael saw their grim faces and they were angered by what they saw. Upon the floor of the second level, they saw their dead comrades that resulted in their anger. They were numbered thirty. It was the number of present enemies of this floor and Kael will solo them.


    "Guys, please be easy on me!", he said to them while he scratched his head.


    They launched their attacks and Kael became serious. He needs to be serious to be able to survive.


    They launched in different directions and Kael was outnumbered. They were armed with swords and he will kill them one by one. Kael attacked and he slashed one. He attacked the least amount of guards to be free from their encirclement. The same technique he used in the past.


    He passed through the least numbered enemies while slashing them.


    Whoosh!


    Slash!


    Whoosh!


    Slash!


    Whoosh!


    Slash!


    He dashed through them while he was cleaving the enemies. The enemies barely defended in his flash of attacks. He then managed to be released in their encirclement.


    Kael whips his sword in the air to drain the blood and then his enemies gushed blood from their wounds. He slashed six enemies and there were fourteen enemies left.


    He saw that the enemies were angered again by the loss of their comrades. They were showing their canines and saliva drops from their mouth. They immediately dashed to his direction and they were running in their fours. They were a lot faster compared to walking in two.


    Kael saw that they were charging to him so he runs in their opposite direction.


    "I need a plan! I need a plan! Ahah!", he said.


    He grabbed his backpack and saw that he has smoke bombs. He purchased it from the consumable shop in the past.


    He throws it to them and then he charges to the smoky fog. They were a total of seven smoke bombs and he used it all. The wolves coughed to the smoke and then he attacked.


    This kind of strategy was used by agents or spies to retreat but Kael used it to attack his enemies when he was still in the past world.


    He slashed the enemies one by one.


    Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash!


    He slashed them using his steel sword. He slashed ten enemies and it was still counting. He slashed again five more enemies until the smoke losses its effects. He slashed fifteen enemies and there''s only one left.


    He saw that he was the only one and his comrades were badly wounded.


    The Kobolds attacked again even they were badly wounded. Kael readied his sword and then he attacked. They met and then he slashed them with his sword.


    Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash!


    He evaded their attacks while slashing them. They were sluggish due to the wound they were feeling. They have wound but it didn''t affect their killing intent. He slashed vertically, horizontally, and diagonally. Leaving wounds at them.


    Kael was a master of swords so the slashes were quick and damaging. He blocks and repelled them but his stamina was low. Blocking while slashing was draining his stamina.


    "I need to take stamina potion but the enemies will not let me.", he said in his mind.


    If he wants to take the stamina potion, he has to fight one-handedly. His other hand will go to his potion belt.


    He mustered his strength to his left hand while holding his sword and then he used his right hand to grab a stamina potion in his belt. He fights one hand while the enemies are that many.


    He slashed his enemy but it was shallow. In return, he successfully grabbed the stamina potion in his belt.


    Now the problem is to drink it. He can''t just stand there and drank it. So he opens the lid of the potion and puts it in his mouth. He drank it while he was evading and he attacks them. Kael drank it all and he felt that he has regained his stamina. He grinned as he realized that his enemies will be in trouble.


    Kael''s strength has been back from before he entered the cave. He used greater force as he slashed his enemies and the enemies barely blocked his blows. He slashed and then kicked his enemy, making them thrown to the force.


    Kael slashed his remaining enemies and they were full of wounds. The enemies were pitiful as they attacked him. Kael kicked them with force applied. The shockwaves are making them growl in pain. Kael then slashed them with force he applied when he trains in the dummy in the past. He slashed his sword until the dummy was crumpled. The same as he slashed the kobolds.


    Ting! Ting! Ting!


    The block of the kobolds was pushed back by Kael and his slash was enough to cut their arms off. Kael cuts them and they were killed immediately when slashed. Kael has successfully killed them and they fought a good fight. He has removed their cores and their right ears as well as their weapons.


    Kael then wondered if he has to go to the third level to level up some more. By his speed on leveling, he can level up by two in the afternoon but he calls it a day. He needs to save stamina potion if he has to do it till the afternoon. Kael then went upstairs and the stairs sounded every time he steps. He saw that the first level was near and then he heard a loud growl.


    Roawwwwrrrrrrrrr!!!


    The saw in the entrance of the second level a bulky, well-built kobold that was three times larger than the normal one. He saw bright red eyes that were glimmering in the dark. He one hands a two-handed bastard sword of warriors and he backs off to return to the second level.


    "The guardian of Hentana Cave, Dreadpaws.", he said as he exit the cave.

 36 Retrea

    Kael exited the Hentana Cave. He has met the Guardian of the Hentana cave and Kael thought that he has angered him. Kael then walked to the busy crowds outside. The adventurers didn''t meet Dreadpaws yet in the first five levels and he walked to the second level recently. It was a weird scenario but it was normal when he felt that there was a slaughter on his brethren. A minute late of retreating will make Kael met with Dreadpaws.


    The crowds were bustling outside and some were buying potions. There were stalls displayed outside the Cave and there were guards. He saw many adventurers on the outside and Kael was pleased. He was stiff and his senses were heightened recently on the battle and were now relaxed. He then sold the weapons of kobold he has brought from the cave.


    He went to a stall of weapon wares and it was being attended by a middle-aged man in his thirties. The has a green bandana on his head and he has orange hair. He has mustache and beard on his face. He wears an apron to look like a proper attire for sellers.


    "How much for these sir?", Kael said as he unpacks his sellable weapons of kobolds one by one. He made a pile of weapons on the ground and his backpack was small.


    "Did you enchant your backpack? Are you perhaps an enchanter?", he asked.


    "Yeah! But I''m still not an expert.", Kael winked as he said it.


    "Ah! Of course! Of course! These weapons were used by Kobolds eh? These were second-hand swords but they were made of iron. It was two silver each. With a total of fifteen then it was a thirty silver coins.", he said then he claps his hands.


    "That''s it! that would be enough to pay my rent for tonight and I still have some spare! Thank you!", He said then he received his thirty silvers.


    He then said goodbye to the merchant. He then traveled to the Capital. On his way was a forest and there are bushes on beside the way. The canopy of the forest covers the clouds and the leaves fall as the wind blew them. The path was covered with leaves and his feet sound every time he steps on the leaves. The fresh wind blew in his cheeks and he inhaled the fresh air. It was noon when he finished on the cave and the sun was at its peak. He met a few adventurers on the way whom he doesn''t know. The path that was covered with trees ends and the walls of the capital city were up ahead.


    He successfully arrived at the capital without meeting danger. He went to the gates and then there were guards that were holding their halberd.


    "ID?", the guard on the left asked.


    Kael showed his ID to him and then they realized that he was an adventurer.


    "You may pass!", he said to him.


    Kael then puts his Adventurer card in his backpack. He marched towards the capital. He walks to the brick pathway and he saw people around. He saw a small river on the capital that has a bridge. He walked to the bridge and then he saw that the Adventurer guild was near.


    He walks and then saw adventurers come in and out of the guild headquarters. He saw the banner of the kingdom on the doorway that was hanged beside it. It was colored blue and there''s an eagle on it. The barbarian kingdom''s banner was red and it has a vulture engraved on it and the skulds were black and a crow. He entered the door and he has met other adventurers. Including the first adventurers, he met on his way to the capital. He saw Gandar, Glan, Fuwn, and Emilda.


    He waves at them and they replied with a wave too. Gandar was on the mission desk and they were busy so Kael went to the rewards desk. He doesn''t want to bother them too. He was on the desk and the woman in his front smiled.


    "What can I do for you?", she said to him while smiling. Her face was white and has an elegant uniform. Her hair was red and it curls on the tip. Red pouty lips and pink cheeks.


    "I would like to update the Hentana cave extermination quest! I completed twenty kills of kobolds on the designated time.", Kael said to her.


    Kael then brought out the ears from his backpack and their cores.


    "Fourty-five ears and fourty-five cores", Kael said to her.


    "Aside from the mission reward of twenty silvers, we will buy one silver each for the ears. The monster cores were one silver each based on their quality.", she said to him


    "Hundred-ten silvers! Great job!", she said to him.


    Kael then received his rewards and then plans to go back to the inn. It was two o''clock in the afternoon when he exited the guild.


    On his way, he went to the food stalls of Daproza street. He ordered a skewered meat and ate it. He savored the sweet and sour with a little bit of spicy flavor. He saw ramen that was served on the other food stall and he was surprised by it. He then ordered ramen and sips the soup. He then sips the noodles and takes a bite to the meat.


    "I will make this routine every accomplished mission", he said in his mind.


    He finished eating and then went back to the inn. It was dawn when he arrived at the inn. The inn''s lights were illuminating the outside. The streets were beginning to light their lamps. Kael checked-in and went upstairs.


    He washed his self with warm water then sleeps.

 37 Third level

    Kael woke up and saw the ceiling of his room. He looked at his hands and saw that it was little.


    "It really is not a dream", he said in his mind.


    He removed the blanket in his body and looked at the window. The sun rose and he immediately went to the comfort room. He washed and then used his clothes for adventuring.


    He Has a jacket and jogging pants on the inside and has a leather armor that was put on the outside. He puts his leather bracers on his hands and a pair of leather boots on his feet.


    He sharpened his sword with a maintaining kit. He sharpened his daggers too. He puts the chains on his arms and then readied for adventuring.


    He then puts his backpack to his back and then leaves his room.


    He checked-out in the receptionist and then leaves the inn. Kael then walks in the streets and then planned to go back to the Hentana cave. He wants to level up more.


    He exits the gate of the capital and then encompassed the forest of Hentana. The leaves were falling and the way was lonely. He met other adventurers he didn''t know. He then saw the crowds gathered in the hub of merchants.


    He saw health potion, stamina potion, mana potion, speed potion, strength potion, defense potion, antidote potion, anti-paralyzing potion, resist elements, resists mental attack.


    He bought three health potions, two strength potions, and three stamina potions.


    "One silver for a health potion, two silvers for strength potion and one silver to the stamina potion.", said the merchant.


    He gave four silvers to the merchant and then walks to the entrance.


    While he was walking, he saw a man running towards him. He was bloody and he was putting his hands on his right shoulder which was bloody.


    "Somebody help! My comrades were on the fifth floor and they were surrounded! Help me please."


    Kael then tossed him one of his health potions. He then grabbed his hand and then said, "I''ll help! Stay here!".


    Kael was in a hurry and ignored the mobs. He passed through the kobolds on the first floor. He hurriedly steps the stairs and it produces sounds. He then jumped to the entrance of the second level.


    Tokok!


    His feet'' sound echoed in the cave. On the second floor, he dashed to the mobs and evaded them. The same on the third floor. On this floor, the enemies were a little bit agile than on the second floor so Kael had a little bit of difficulty in evading.


    He sneaked on the third floor to evade the mobs but he was surrounded instead. Kael then draws his sword from his scabbard.


    "Bring it on!", he shouted.


    He dashed in his front and then furiously slashed them. They were equipped with one-handed swords. They were able to block his attacks and then they clashed for a minute.


    Tang! Tang! Tang!


    He grabbed from his potion belt a strength potion and drank it. The battle continued and he outwits them with tactics. He used feigns and then rapidly increased his speed.


    Slash! feign! evade!


    All were made in succession. He then killed them in a minute. Kael was getting clever and he used his wits this time. Not just to have fun.


    He has no time to gather their monster cores but he has what he needs¨Cit was experience. He needs to hurry if he wants to meet them.


    Kael then went to the entrance to the fourth floor but it was blocked by the enemies. The enemies on the second floor also found him on the third floor. He was trapped and sandwiched by two forces at once.


    Kael then drank another strength potion and stamina potion. He was still unscathed and so he saves the health potion for the meantime.


    He immediately draws his sword. He then attacked them with force.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Kael was furious due to the fact that he needs to save them. He furiously slashed the enemies and didn''t back down.


    The enemies on the second floor have a sword and shield and the third-floor mobs were only swords. It was their movement that was different.


    The second-floor mobs were sluggish but has a decent defense. The third-floor mobs were agile and fast but has no defense.


    Kael was in the race of time. A second late will make a big impact if he can''t save a soul at the proper time. He will regret it.


    He was surrounded by the sword and shield ones. He kicked them with brute strength so the enemies will be scattered. Kael then rapidly slashed the enemies.


    Drinking strength potion greatly helped his attack rise. It gave him five points on his strength making it rise to 28. It was a good move for Kael and it proved to be effective in combat.


    The enemies'' body were furiously slashed and their body parts were cut. Making it thrown off. Blood splattered from their body. Kael didn''t back down and he has the upper hand. He didn''t let the chance go when the enemies'' morale broke down.


    The enemies saw a monster that butchered their kin. He attacked and their shields were shattered. It was only made of wood, not an iron.


    He slashed his way through and then ended their lives in a majestic way. It will inspire the ones who watched it but the only viewers were only enemies. It will only result to be stricken by dread and horror for them.

 38 Fourth Level

    Kael ended their lives with fierceness. He slashed them with strength surpassing his own self. He killed them and then wipes his sword to their furs. He went down to the stairs towards the fourth floor.


    He walks and there were glowing stones that illuminated his path. His path was stairs and it smelled blood from the distance. The smell comes from the fourth floor. He hurriedly walks in the stairs while minding where he stepped in. He was extra careful when he steps because tripping in the stairs will make his ankle sprained.


    Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak!


    He arrived at the entrance of the fourth floor and the cave was still illuminated by the glowing stones. If it was not illuminated by glowing stones, then he will use his floating lantern. He reserved it for dark places like this. He then hurriedly dashed to the cave. In the past, he read about the mana sense. It was written in the book of the "magic basics" of his dad.


    It was written in it that the mana was everywhere and you just gonna feel it. Not all are capable of feeling the mana and the ones who can be mages. All living things have mana and one can feel it if he was destined to be a mage¨CKael was one of it. There were job classes that use mana but they are not as proficient as mages.


    Kael focused and he felt the tiny bits of mana in the cave. He felt the mana of the monsters. He felt that he can see more than his eyes can. He can use mana sense for long periods of time but not while in battle. He needs extreme focus if he wants to do it.


    Kael then felt that they were trapped by the kobolds. They were on the east side of the cave and it was full of kobolds there. There was away on the other side but it was blocked by rocks. Kael then dashed in their direction and then saw that the kobolds were destroying the door towards the adventurers. They were lucky to find a room with a door. It was basically a room for stockpiling the pickaxes.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    They pound the door with their swords. In the room of pickaxes, there was a party of adventurers that were trapped. There was a leader that was a priest, a vanguard of knight and paladin, a rearguard of the priest, and a scout that was a rouge. They luckily found the room where they were saved but as well as trapped.


    "Guys, I''m so sorry. I let you all down. Trent sacrificed himself to let us escape but here we are in this room, trapped", said their leader.


    "Don''t be discouraged! You''re our leader so it''s your job to lead us. His sacrifice was not in vain because we''re saved. Let''s survive this together.", said their rogue.


    "Guys I don''t want to die being single! At least I wanna marry my girlfriend. If I survive this, I''m gonna propose to her." said their knight.


    "And who''s the best man?", asked their rogue.


    "Guys let''s survive this and let''s eat dinner! It''s all on me!", said their paladin.


    "Hey, guys! If we will survive this, well let''s survive first so arm yourselves and fight to the death!", shouted their leader.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    They heard from outside the door.


    Bang!


    A kobold was flown in the room from the door. The door was destroyed in the process. From the door, there emerged a young boy with a plain-looking face¨Cbrown and has black hair.


    "Everything''s alright? Is everyone okay?", he asked.


    "Save Trent!", Their leader said as he kneeled without a second thought.


    "He''s on the fifth floor! Please save him!", they said without a second thought. They saw a powerful person, not a weak child.


    "Stay here I''ll be back with him," Kael said as he hurried to the fifth floor.


    He used all his strength to dash. This was a race of time and every second was important. He encompassed the glowing stone-lit cave and then arrived at the entrance of the fifth floor. He didn''t meet monsters because he finished them off recently in the outside of the door of pickaxes.


    They successfully arrived on the fourth floor but they left one of their comrade to the fifth. They locked themselves up in the room of pickaxes and was safe until they were found by Kael. They found their luck because Kael found them.

 39 The lost one

    He successfully arrived on the fifth floor which where the lost adventurer was. He saw two-handed sword-user kobolds and they were pretty strong. They have a strength of twenties to thirties. Kael met one and he tried to duel it. He slashed his sword to his chest but it was blocked by the kobold.


    "These ones were pretty capable.", he said in his mind.


    Kael then estimated the danger of being surrounded by them.


    "Trent was very capable if he can survive being surrounded by them.", he said in his mind.


    Kael slashed but it was blocked again. He used feigns and then evade them. The attacks of the kobold were heavy due to its two-handed sword. The kobold was sometimes slashing with one hand and Kael had difficulty to repel them. Even a master of the sword was finding it challenging. Kael has no problem evading his slashes due to its sluggish slash. He just saves his strength in case of a dozen will surround him. Due to it, he has found it challenging.


    Kael then made his pace faster. He slashed left and right and the kobold blocks it with his sword. He barely blocks his slashes and thrusts that were thrown at him.


    Slash! Thrust! Thurst! Slash! Slash!


    The kobold has many wounds but he was persistent. Kael finds it inspiringly pitiful. He was lucky that it was only a single one but a crowd was a different case. He would be in trouble. Kael thought it was very difficult to survive but he thinks of it as a challenge, and he likes challenges. It will be worth it if he can save a life of Trent whom he doesn''t know.


    Kael then dashed in zigzag direction and then slashed. The kobold was surprised by his sudden increase in speed and was shocked. He successfully slashed its neck and decapitated him. He then heard a loud wolf cry.


    Awwoooooo!!!


    The cave vibrated as their cry echoed in the tunnels. Kael''s hairs stand up as he heard it. It was an exciting thing for him to experience. He then drank his last strength potion.


    Kael then saw them surrounded him.


    "It''s party time!", he said as he held his sword.


    They were numbered twenty-five if he will count them all. They were all using two-handed swords. He then clashed his sword to one of them and his sword produced a loud clanging sound.


    Clang!


    Kael then evades the upcoming swing of the kobold. He evades two and another three slashes.


    "They were not letting me breathe huh? Let me show you how you do it!", he exclaimed.


    He rapidly slashed his enemies and the ones he slashes were barely blocking. His shadow was barely be seen by his enemies. Kael furiously slashed his enemies and he was just passing them while he slashes them. Kael then whips his sword to the air. Blood painted the ground in a grotesque manner. His enemies were all killed by his sword.


    Kael then saw a shadow that appeared. He was a warrior that has a two-handed sword. He was bloody and his helmet was crumpled. His armor was badly damaged and he walks in zigzag.


    "Thank you!", he said then he collapsed.


    Kael then let him take a lap on his legs. He then helped him drank health potion and he coughed. His wounds healed and then Kael removed his crumpled helmet. He felt asleep after his wounds healed due to exhaustion.


    Several minutes later.....


    "Where am I? Is this heaven?", he asked.


    "No, but your friends were waiting on the fourth floor. Are you fine now?", Kael said to him.


    "I''m okay?", he said as he stands up.


    "Thank you! by the way, are my friends okay?", he asked Kael.


    "Yeah! let''s meet them on the fourth floor.", Kael said to him.


    Kael then walked towards the fourth floor and they met together.


    "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!", said their Priest leader as he bowed down.


    After he said it Kael disappeared. He only left a bag of stamina potion.


    "He disappeared?", the priest said.

 40 Mana cultivation

    Kael quickly left when he can still get the monster cores and their left ear. It was time to harvest them all. He hurriedly went to the fifth floor he has battled recently. He arrived on the fifth floor and they were illuminated by the glowing stones. The bodies of the monsters were disintegrating as time goes by and Kael collected their weapons and cores. Sadly, their ears disintegrated together with their body. All was left were their monster cores.


    Kael then collected them. He grabbed them one by one and he collected twenty-five. Their weapons just all went inside his backpack that was enchanted by [Increase maximum load] and [Weightlessness].


    He encompassed the cave that was lit by bright glowing stone. He arrived at the stairs to the fourth floor. The stairs were leading upwards and it was lit by torches. The stairs were moist if you touch it. The humidity was high in these stairs that lead to the fourth floor. Kael then walks in the stairs.


    Tik! Tak! Tik! Tak!


    His footsteps echoed in the stairway. It has no railings to hold on to so it''s like stairs in the towers of castles. Kael then arrived on the fourth floor. He saw the light of glowing stones at the entrance. He went to the mining tools room but they weren''t there anymore. He then collected the monster cores and their weapons. Their weapons were not looted by the adventurers due to them hurrying to exit the cave. He collected their cores that amounted to fifty-three plus twenty-five, a total of seventy-eight. He killed that much in that span of time. Kael then examined the room and then left. It was just like before when he left the room. A few broken pieces of splintered wood and a few bigger chunks of wooden pieces of the door.


    He left then went to the third floor. This floor has been looted by other adventurers. He was a minute late when he saw other adventurers retrieved their cores. Kael then went to the second floor and there he saw adventurers that were killing weak mobs. He just passed them and went to the first floor.


    "The exit, at last!", he said to his mind cheerfully.


    He then sold his monster cores and the weapons to the stalls and it amounted to three gold coins and twenty silvers.


    "One gold and twenty silvers", the merchant said to him.


    "That was pretty much!", he said to him.


    A hundred silvers amounted one gold coin and one silver amounted a hundred copper coins.


    Kael then went on the same path from before. He threaded the path towards the kingdom capital. The leaves were scattered on the forest floor and the pathway. Kael felt the wind breeze blew his skin.


    He arrived at the gate and was recognized by the guard. He went to the food stalls and ate a bowl of ramen. He gave the seller a sliver and he was changed with seventy coppers. It was heavy in his coin purse and it clangs every time he steps. He went to the inn and checked-in. He went to his room and he unpacks his backpack. He saw a light from his backpack so he opened it. He grabbed his adventurer card and it was glowing.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 16


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (24) +


    Dexterity (29) +


    Vitality (29) +


    Focus (79) +


    Stats points: 48


    ....


    He leveled up again and he was happy with it. He reserved his stat points for the meantime and then started to practice his mana cultivation. This was practiced by him in the past and thanks to it, his focus went up to seventy. He channeled his mana to his core and felt that it was gradually increasing. According to his book called "Magic basics", "[Mana cultivation]" will increase his focus. Another one was "[Mana sense]". It will help you sense others that have mana in their bodies. The advanced mages can use "[Mana absorption]" that can absorb mana in the air while meditating. And in advanced cases where using it while on the battle. He focused and channeled his mana. For an hour his focus went up by one, with a total of eighty.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 16


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (24) +


    Dexterity (29) +


    Vitality (29) +


    Focus (80) +


    Stats points: 48


    ....

 41 Sixth floor

    Kael went to the entrance of the cave to go deeper. It was five to ten floors or level that he wants to go. He traveled to the fifth floor without a problem. He managed to kill his way through and collected their cores. On the sixth floor, his enemies were the armored kobolds.


    The kobolds attacked like there was no tomorrow. Due to their armors, they were fearless. The eyes glowed in bright red and they attacked like mad beasts. Their saliva drooled from their mouths.


    Their armors were made to fit their body. It was like an armor made by them. They have a helmet that was perfectly fit to their head and a chest plate to cover their chest and backs. They also have handguards in their arms and knee guards in their knees.


    Kael attacked them and they were thrown by force.


    "They were a bit troublesome. This will take time to kill them.", he said to himself.


    Kael slashed with all his strength and their armors sparked every time he slashed it. Kael''s sword will be dulled slowly if this continues.


    They have a weak point where the gaps in their armors are located. He has to be cunning enough to outwit his enemy.


    The enemies amounted to ten but they were a bit troublesome compared to his past battles.


    Ting! Ting! Ting! Ting!


    They have a two-handed sword and they were pretty strong to lift it. Kael was lucky that he has enough dexterity to evade them. Dexterity was connected to strength, specifically the leg strength in the movement and the arm strength to attack speed. The difference was that the dexterity was a little bit of control not only strength. The control plus the strength to back it is the dexterity. Strength was also linked to other traits. For example vitality; If you were having a great physique, then it was thanks to body strengthening activities. That will lead to greatly enhancing your vitality, your defense, and stamina.


    Kael strikes with piercing thrusts. Slashes were predictable and thrusts were faster and accurate. He was attacked by a swing and he evaded at the right time. They were perplexed by his actions thus they attacked faster. Kael pierced one enemy on the shoulders.


    Shiek!


    He was surrounded but not on a pinch. His enemies were sluggish due to their heavy two-handed swords. They were strong but their mastery of sword was of a newbie. Their attacks were predictable so Kael evaded leisurely. It was the stamina that was the problem. He attacked with another piercing thrust and then slashed his enemy on the neck. It was the kobold whom he thrust on the shoulders that he killed. Kael then darted every time he initiated a thrust. Kael pierced the gaps in their armors.


    Shiek!


    Sounded the sword after he thrust the neck of the kobold. The eyes that were open were closing slowly after he pierced his neck. Kael then retreated to gain distance. He ran and then struck in-between his fleeing. He was making feigns and counter attacks to them that were chasing him.


    "I have to make them weary first. With their heavy armors, they will be the ones to be weary first than me later on.", he said in his mind.


    He ran and they were getting slow. Kael then slowly attacked them one by one. He was attacking wiser this time. The enemies attacked but they were panting this time around. He pounced to them like a tiger that found its prey.


    He managed to kill five by his sword. They were no match for him who''s mastery of sword was of a master. He only lacks experience on the battlefield but it was little by little, he was learning at a steady pace. He was also learning a bit fast. He was cunning and was greedy of knowledge. That was the reason he wants to read books and learn from his father. He was also an expert in the past.


    Kael then attacked the remaining five. He struck them with his might.


    Ha!


    He shouted as he initiated his slash. They were killed by him. He slashed the gaps of their armors and they were cut to pieces.


    Shing! Shing! Shing!


    The five remaining enemies were disembodied. Their arms flew as he cuts them. The battle didn''t last for long and he removes their cores, as well as their armors.


    He puts it in his backpack and then moves to the seventh floor.

 42 Seventh floor

    Kael splashed the sense-hindering potion to his robes. With it, his travel to the seventh floor will not be troublesome. Kael walked on the stairs towards the seventh floor.


    He saw fewer glowing stones on this floor. He was sneaking and he saw many miners than before. They were mining the glowing stones and Kael was curious about it. He saw them grabbed the stones and puts it to their mining cart. Ten were currently mining and he was hiding in the dark. He breathes calmly while observing.


    Spying them took time and Kael has seen many gaps in the seventh floor. He took the chance to use the gaps to spy more.


    When he was observing, he sneaked to follow the miners. He hides to the dark places when the miners look back.


    Kael felt that the temperature was rising. It was getting hotter and hotter by the time they arrived at the exit. It was spacious part of the cave and Kael saw that they were having their own metal-making. Kael was surprised by that sight. He concludes that they were making their own armors and weapons.


    Kael saw that there was a big bath-tub-like chamber where they poured their mined ores. It was emitting a bright red glow and it was boiling like a food paste. They were busy with their work and has no time to rest.


    Kael was observing and then he saw a bigger kobold instructing the smaller ones.


    "Dreadpaws", Kael said excitedly in his mind.


    His hands itched to have an epic fight with him in the future.


    Kael saw that they were having to melt the ores and the ones they finished making were made into iron bars. They were delivering it to their blacksmiths.


    Kael sneaked past the guards in the blacksmithing room. He throws a stone to distract them and then he entered the room. Kael observed the room and it was in chaos. The parchment of papers was everywhere and he saw ink and pens. Kael saw that they have complete sets of blacksmithing wares and they have blueprints of their works. It was lit by a lamp that was in the working table of their craftsman.


    "They were learning how to make their own weapons and armor!", Kael exclaimed in his mind.


    His face was full of worries and his hand trembled to the thought of monsters getting their intellect like the humans. It has not happened before in their world.


    Kael took some to serve as evidence into his backpack. The adventurers will be shocked if they learn about it. He was in the process of packing when he heard indistinct language. Kael hides in the corner of the room where there has no light that was shining.


    They entered the room and he saw them talked to each other. Kael was perplexed with them talking to each other as his cold sweat trickled in his face.


    He holds his breath as he hides in the darkness. They were talking in their language as one of the kobolds sniffed the air. Kael''s feet trembled in fear as he realized that his cover will be blown if his sense-hindering potion will lose its effect.


    He covered his mouth and holds his breath. Moments later on, the kobolds left the room without noticing him or the lost papers.


    Kael sighed deeply as he calmed himself down. He can kill them easily but it was not worth the hassle. It would alarm the whole tribe of kobolds. He exited the room and saw that the guards returned it to their post. He was shocked when he saw them.


    They were about to alarm others but Kael immediately throws his two daggers in their forehead.


    Shiek!


    The daggers sounded as they pierced their skulls. Kael then removes his daggers and then wipes it to their fur. He sheathed his daggers and went on his way.


    Seconds later, he heard their howls.


    Awooooo!


    "They smelled the blood of their brethren.", Kael said as he concluded it. He will have to fight his way to survive in this kobold cave.

 43 Legendary retrea

    Kael was in a hurry to the sixth floor. The enemies were following him. He dashed to the pathway towards the glowing-stone-lit-pathway.


    "Huf! Huf! Huf! I need to deliver this to the adventurer guild safely. But that will be hard to pull off. When they will see this, they will be surprised.", he said in his self while panting.


    He was running towards the exit when he saw a bigger-than-usual kobold. He has a big body that was covered with white furs. His neck has a black color that was mistaken as a collar. His eyes glowed in red and he looked at Kael''s direction. Kael who was running was struck with fear. His hairs in his body stand up as he looked at him. Just looking at him in the distance was a fear-striking-phenomenon.


    "Damn! Dreadpaws!", he shouted in his mind.


    He was blocking the stairs towards the sixth floor and Kael has to pass through him. Dreadpaws were holding a two-handed sword in his right hand and he lifts it with only his one hand. He looked at him but Kael didn''t hesitate to dash through him.


    Kael made a gamble. A gamble with his life on the line. He dashed without looking back. Their distance was getting nearer and nearer by the time. Kael prepared himself for the great feat to pass through Dreadpaws.


    He charged faster than before and used all his strength. He dashed like a wind. Dreadpaws on the contrary drags his sword from the ground and then slashed In Kael''s direction.


    Kael ducked at the right time and time passed like in slow motion. Kael who was ducking evades the blade of Dreadpaws but his backpack''s shoulder strap was slashed.


    Shing!


    The sword made a sound as his straps were slashed. Kael''s backpack fell from his back.


    Pak!


    His backpack sounded as it fell to the floor.


    "Damn! My backpack!", he shouted.


    Kael left with no choice; it was now or never. He draws his sword from his back and then went to the direction of his backpack. This was what Dreadpaws has foreseen and he was not gonna let it happen.


    Dreadpaws slashed Kael with all his might.


    Bang!


    Kael blocked it but he was thrown due to the impact. He was near to the backpack but he was thrown instead. He was slammed to the cave wall. He was on the wall and he saw the glowing stone that was removed from the wall.


    Kael then devised a plan to reach his backpack. He grabbed the glowing stone and then throws it to Dreadpaws. He then dashed towards his backpack and then grabbed it. Dreadpaws on the contrary slashed the glowing stone. He was blinded to the flash as the glowing stone exploded due to the impact.


    Kael didn''t let his chance pass through and exited to the stairs. He was carrying his backpack to the left arms and his right arms were on the sword.


    He dashed to the stairs hurriedly.


    Roar!!!


    Dreadpaws roared in anger. He chased Kael in his outrage. Kael on the contrary gulped a speed potion.


    Dreadpaws dashed in his fours. He immediately caught up with Kael. Dreadpaws chased Kael in the stairs.


    Pak! Tak! Tak! Pak! Pak! Tak! Tak!


    Their feet pounded the stairs upwards. It was a chasing scene that has occurred. Kael rapidly steps and jumps in the circling stairs upwards. He jumps to the stairs in zigzag while Dreadpaws were catching up with him. The place where Dreadpaws landed was crushed and his paws sunk in the stairs.


    Kael was calm as he assessed his enemy''s strength. It will be in the forties or thirties. His enemy will out-power him in terms of strength. He dashed and dashed. Dreadpaws was catching up and then he draws his sword. He slashed Kael and Kael evaded in hairs breathe. Dreadpaws'' sword sunk in the stairs and it gave Kael a little bit of time to head start.


    Dreadpaws pulled the sword and he again watched Kael escape.


    He didn''t chase after it and then went back to the seventh floor.


    Kael on the contrary arrived at the exit and he was greatly panting.


    "Huf! Huf! Huf! That was close! whoo!", he said in his self and wipes his sweaty face.


    Kael then went to the adventurer later on.

 44 A company

    Kael fixed his backpack before leaving. He used his earnings in the dungeon to buy a new backpack. He bought a leather backpack that was made from crocodile leather. The scaly back of the crocodile was used as a material.


    Kael was in his journey towards the adventurer guild. He left the Hentana cave recently. Kael was walking and he was happy to clashed swords with Dreadpaws. It was a feeling of gladness and excitement. The retreat was a success and all he needs to do was to deliver the evidence to the adventurer guild. Kael was in deep thought, how did the monsters get their wisdom. He thought that it has begun when the dungeon appeared.


    "Was it really connected?", he contemplated for a second.


    He was thinking then he stumbled on a pebble. After this, he regained his composure. It was a probability that it was possible to be connected. He continued his walk towards the pathway.


    The road was silent, all he could do was a whistle on the way as he puts his hands on his back. The pathway was full of dried leaves of maples. Some aples were letting go of their leaves as the wind blew them.


    The sun was setting and it was time for him to eat another bowl of ramen. He was imagining himself to eat grilled skewered pork and soup. He wipes his mouth when he was thinking about it. Having a little bit of enjoyment in this world was enough for Kael to be happy. His past life was full of bloodshed and this kind of life now was very refreshing for him. He hears the wind blew by the distance and it was relaxing to him.


    The rays of the sun were passing through the maple leaves. The rays were bright enough to make you close your eyes for a bit. He met other people. He waves to them on the way. He was nearing the gate towards the capital and he hurried in excitement. He walks past the guards and he arrived at the food stall.


    There, he bought grilled skewered pork and ate a chunk of it. He was tasting spicy yet sweet pork. It was a decent flavor rivaling the taste of modern culinary. Next was to the ramen shop.


    He sits to the stall and it was a little shop that can accommodate several people. There was a cook in the front and a small table they can sit in. The ingredients can be seen and you can actually see what he prepares. He sat beside a man that was taller than him. He has commoner clothes but has a sword buckled in his waist. He was looking a the man and concluded that he retired for the day to have a sip of ramen like him.


    He ordered a bowl like the old man. He grabbed his chopsticks and then waited for his serve.


    Several minutes passed by and the middle-aged man talked to him.


    "Are you an adventurer? I can see your sword from your back.", He asked.


    Kael was surprised but he remained calm.


    "Yeah! Yes, I am!", Kael said cheerfully.


    "How young! I was like you in my days where I''m still young. But at your age, how did you manage? Me at that age. Hum... I''m a swordsman trained by my father. But not yet an adventurer. I was still a crybaby and still on the care of my mother.", he said to Kael in a serious tone.


    "Bah! why are we lingering in the past? Let''s live in the future! Do you know that the present was the future that has passed? So live the future by living the present.", he said to him like a poetic man.


    Their orders arrived and they happily talked with each other. Kael was surprised by the wisdom of this man. He asked his name and he told him that he was Timothy Tailor. A man that was level 37. He was an A ranker like the Helgurt Leomurds of the adventurer guild.


    Kael and Timothy were happily talking.


    "You know kid, I never met other kids like you. You seem too mature at your age! I saw a great will-power behind your eyes. Not belonging to a child but of a seasoned veteran.", Timothy said to him while patting his back.


    "Really? Maybe you''re just drunk with the ramen!", Kael blurted out to him.


    "Do ramen make you drunk? No of course! I''m sober enough to prove it to you", he said to Kael.


    "Well, I know it because of my skill [Analyze]. I can really know your current level and skills. Don''t worry, your secret was safe with me.", he said then he lay his right hand to him.


    [Conceal]


    He said to him while using his skill His hands glowed and Kael was surprised.


    "My conceal skill was level ten so only a [Analyze] skill higher than that can uncover your true identity. What can they see was half of your level.", Timothy said to Kael.


    "Don''t thank me yet. I had a great time with you so the pleasure is mine. Consider it a friendly gift", Timothy said to Kael.


    "Can I thank you now? As a matter of fact, I''m greatly pleased with your company. I''ve never met a man like you! There was one and only Timothy in this world ain''t it?", said Kael to him.


    Timothy laughed together with Kael.


    "Ha! ha! ha! ha! You got me there kid! I will go now, I have things to do.", he said then packs his backpack.


    "Goodbye, Timothy! See you again!", Kael shouted goodbye to him.


    He went the other way from him. Kael went to the adventurer guild and Timothy on his way home.


    the report

 45 Evidence

    Kael was having leisure in walking while whistling. He was having a great time while walking towards the adventurer guild. He saw the towering guild headquarters as he looked at the buildings nearby.


    "The adventurer guild! At last!", he shouted happily. He hops on his way to the headquarters. He jogs and hops in gladness.


    The sun was setting and the sky was painted red. The flocks of birds flew the skies as they migrate to other places. It was their breeding season and they were busy finding their mate. Their honks were as loud as the noise of the crowd.


    Kael was in the street that goes to the guild. Kael saw in the streets the bakers that exited their bread store. The flower stands lighted the flowers that they were displaying. There were also commoners that were looking outside the dress shop. The child was grabbing the hands of his father and was saying to buy their displayed clothes. It was a red gown embroidered with golden clothe on the neck and the waist.


    Kael then entered the guild and saw the same flag of Dwight. The blue flag with an eagle in the center. It was hanged outside the adventurer guild and everyone saw it every time they enter. It was a welcoming view as the adventurers saw it and it was not tiring to see it.


    Kael then went inside and saw that the guild was busy. It was the time where the adventurers finished the quests that they picked. It was also the time where they accept their rewards and go home or go to the taverns to spend their earnings. It was the busiest part of the day, second to the morning where they pick their quest for that day.


    Kael then went inside and he approached the receptionist.


    "Good afternoon ma''am, I have discovered something off about the Hentana cave. I have brought the evidence and wants it to be verified by the guild master.", he said to her.


    "Very well, let me call him to verify it.", she said as she taps her cheeks.


    She communicated in her mind using [Telepathy].


    The receptionist then nodded in response.


    "This way sir.", she said as she points the way to the guild master''s office.


    Kael then proceeded to the door. He grabbed the doorknob and entered. He saw a room painted in red and in the middle, there was a desk. There was a mini bookshelf beside the desk. There was a sofa with a small table at the center of the room.


    Kael closed the door and he saw a man on his prime. He has red hair with sharp eyes. He wears a tuxedo with eyeglasses and white gloves in his hands. On his desk, there was a name inscribed at it. It has Drew Barrys inscribed in it.


    "My assistant said that you have evidence of Hentana cave''s activities. Hand me the evidence.", he said as he gestured his fingers for Kael to come to him.


    Kael then unloads his backpack from his back and grabs the papers and journals of the kobolds. He handed it all to the guild master.


    "So this was their activities huh? They were manufacturing their own weapons and armors. They have developed their instincts that far. Okay, job well done. You can go now. I will report this to the higher-ups so we will solve this problem. You can go now, I''m quite busy.", he said as he let him go.


    "Thank you, sir, for hearing me out. I will update more in case it will worsen.", he said to him.


    Kael then about-faced towards the exit.


    "Do you want a promotion?", He said to him.


    Kael then looked at him perplexed.


    "What sir!?", he said while confused.


    "Promotion?", he added.


    "Yeah, considering your talent to espionage and survived was a great feat. Especially to a combatant like you. Considering my assets and connections, I know a teacher in the Dwight Academy to teach you Rogue skills.", He said to him seriously.


    "The pleasure is mine, sir. There''s still time to think about it. But my dream was to be able to master all Dwight''s job class. I''m quite a greedy person, sir, one job class will not satisfy me.", Kael said then he winked at him.


    "Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! I like that idea! let me see. That was not impossible for me but on one condition. Slaughter every last kobold in Hentana cave and prove to me your worth.", Drew said to him seriously.


    "Then we have a deal, sir.", Kael replied.

 46 Character stat cultivation

    "Then we have a deal, sir," Kael said to him.


    He shook hands with the guild master. His hands have gloves and it was soft. His hands-on the contrary were hard and firm.


    "Excuse me for my rudeness. I''m Drew Barrys, the guild master of the adventurer guild of the Dwight kingdom. Nice to meet you.", he said as he grabbed Kael''s hands with his other hand.


    Kael was glad to meet someone like the guild master. It was a great start to met his boss as early as this.


    "You have a long way to go, I am a man of his word. If you can prove to me your worth then I will certainly recommend you to the academy. And not only that, but you can also be sponsored by me and you will attend the academy with free tuition. If you can fulfill the task then. The past adventurers were having a hard time killing the boss, much more for a kid like you. But you survived, that proves to be a talent that no one has. And if you become stronger, then I got your back. I am happy to nurture the youths like you because I believe that the youths were the future of this kingdom.", Barrys said as he arranged the evidence.


    "Thank you, sir! I won''t let you down. I will gladly prove it to you.", Kael said to him with excitement. A chance that has been given and Kael will not let it gone to waste.


    "Goodbye, sir! Until next time!", he said as he went to the door. He went to the busy Hall and went outside the guild.


    He walks towards the inn he was staying in. On his way, the streets were slowly lit with the lamp post on the pathway. The light of the lamp post illuminated the brick roads. The people were busy going to and fro in the streets. Some were going home, some want to go to their destinations and some want to eat in food stalls. Kael was one of the people that want to go home. The pathway smelled the fresh air and he felt its breeze. He was happy that the peace of this kingdom existed and not the war-torn kingdom he imagined.


    When he was walking home, he saw a pigeon that was carrying a container on its back.


    "A letter from home"


    He spoke. The pigeon saw him and he flew towards him. It was flying towards him as fast as he could. Kael then lends his hand for it to sit on. He caressed its feathers and walks home with it.


    Minutes have passed while he was walking. He arrived at the inn and saw that there were adventurers and some visitors that were eating. The inn was busy as he walked inside. The receptionist was busy with her customers and went to her post. The receptionist immediately saw his pet that Kael was carrying.


    "Is that your pet? How cute!", she said as she smiled. Her smile was legitimate and her eyes glittered as the lights reflected it.


    "Yeah! Are they not allowed here?", Kael asked.


    "Yeah they''re allowed but the cleanliness of their waste was all the responsibility of the owner.", she said while she grabs a cup to wipe with a clean cloth.


    "Thanks! But he will not stay here for long. He just needs to rest a bit then he will fly back to where he came from.", Kael said while patting its head.


    "Oh really? You''ve got a hard-working pet huh? You need to at least feed him.", She said to him with a daring voice.


    "Yeah, I will feed him. I will go now.", Kael said to her.


    He immediately walks upstairs where his room was. He opened it with his key and pushed his door. He lit the lamp and then feeds the pigeon with pellets and water. He opened the container and then puts his letter to the table. He washed first before getting to bed.


    After he washed, he reads the letter that was coming from his mother. Kael reads the letter, "Dear Kael, we''ve been busy with the construction. The people were flocking in the Golden Valley. They were happy to hear that you have lowered the taxes. The expansion of the land was on the way and the construction of their homes was on the way. In the meantime, they stayed at the inns we''ve constructed. The agricultural lands were plowed and they were planted with wheat and other vegetables, as well as fruits. If you see the faces of the people then you will see their happiness. The port was under construction, the soldiers were training every day. My tummy was getting bigger every day, I hope he or she will grow well. And Mael, we''ve caught some spies of the other lords that finds Sir Vanz, you need to act fast and deliver the evidence to the king. Don''t worry, we''re safe here. Your loving mother, Erza"


    Kael smiled as he reads that everyone''s safe. They caught the spy so that means that it will only take days before the evil lords will act.


    "I need to act fast before they will know of Sir Vanz''s location. The spy was caught so they will know when the spy will not come back to them."


    Kael then writes a letter of reply to her.


    "Dear mom, I was glad that everyone''s safe. I will act fast to deliver evidence to the king. In a matter of two days, I will deliver it to the king. If you read this letter, maybe I''m going to the king at that time. I really miss you and the Golden Valley. Your loving son, Mael."


    Kael then folds his written letter then puts it to the container. The pigeon has recuperated its strength and was ready to fly back to the Golden Valley. Kael opened the window and then lets it fly. Kael then closed the window.


    In the past, he reads a book that increases your character stats. It was a book called "Character stat cultivation". Kael then cultivates his strength by doing exercises. He pushed ups and sit-ups. Next was his dexterity. He sides steps rapidly for minutes. He cultivated his focus by gathering his mana to the core as well as absorbing mana in the air. In his vitality, he jogs around his room and sweats heavily. His stats all went up by one.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 16


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (25) +


    Dexterity (30) +


    Vitality (30) +


    Focus (81) +


    Stats points: 48


    ....

 47 To the dark

    Kael was given a chance to prove his worth. It was time to exterminate them all. Kael was joyous to the fact that he was given a chance like this. He was standing to the entrance of the Hentana cave. He was thoroughly equipped with potions and weapons. He has his sword and daggers, as well as his chains. He was carrying health potion, stamina potion, poison potion, sense-hindering potion, speed potion, defense potion, and strength potion.


    He entered the cave stronger than before. With his stats gone up by one, it was like he leveled up by one. He was confident in his techniques to fight the enemies head-on. He entered the cave and the atmosphere has changed to cold and humid. The glowing stones were left in the cave to serve as a light to the darkness. Kael was walking in the cave and saw kobolds. They were the miner kobolds that were not fighters. They were ten in number. They immediately ran towards him and Kael was calm. It was within his anticipation. They have their pickaxe that served as their weapon.


    Kael was relaxed and then he draws his sword. They attacked with a fierceness that was like an untamed beast. Kael slashed the first enemy that approached him. He evaded the pickaxe where they used to attack him. Kael was in a hurry so he slashed them furiously.


    Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash!


    He attacked them with his sword.


    Pisht!


    The blood gushed out from their body. Kaek then removed their cores. He proceeded to the second level. This time, he slashed them even they didn''t know his presence yet. He sneaked and slashed their necks, making them decapitated. He proceeded with caution not to alarm his enemies. He then switched to his dagger to make his sneaking attack more effective. He was used to this kind of set up in the past. He was an expert when in terms of sneak attacks when he was still a spy.


    He sneaked and saw three kobolds that were patrolling. They were equipped with swords. One was their leader and it was commanding and scolding his underlings. Kael throws a stone in the opposite direction.


    Takatak!


    The stone''s sound echoed in the cave. He observed the right timing for his attack. The right timing was very crucial for the sneak attack. He saw that the leader commanded his underlings to check the source of the sound. Kael bit his lips in excitement to sneak attack. The underling who checks the source of the sound was stabbed by Kael to the neck. Not even making a sound.


    Kael then went to the other direction to sneak attack the other underling. He sneaked without making a sound. He dashed where the light was and hides in dark places. The underling looks in his direction and the leader was in the opposite direction. He throws a stone in the opposite direction.


    Tackatak!


    The kobolds were perplexed and they hurried to where the sound coming from. Like the steps, they were making a sound and it was a perfect timing where Kael was waiting for. He dashed without a sound. He draws his other curved dagger.


    Shing!


    He stabbed both of them at their napes. Both of them collapsed at the ground without even whining.


    Kael then proceeded with caution. It was only a short time before they will know that their comrades were killed. Kael then struck while the iron was still hot. He needs to act fast if he wants to infiltrate their cave.


    Kael then dragged their bodies and hides it. He then left it. The smell of blood was smelled by their brethren. It caused an alarm to them and they howled in the cave.


    Awwooo!


    Their shout was heard by Kael. His sweat trickled his face and then drops to the floor. He was struck with excitement. Hearing them panicking to look at him will only make his hunt for them go smoother. He hides in the dark and poured his sense-hindering potion to his head and body. Making them not smell him was also making them blind to his whereabouts.


    "It''s party time!.", he said in his mind.


    He sneaked in the darkness and dashed in the light. He saw five kobolds that were approaching. He hides in the right time as they passed him. He hid in the dark concave places of the cave and was not seen. They patrolled by packs and have a leader.


    Kael attacked a pack of a kobold. There were five of them and he attacked the one on the back. He jumped at him and stabbed the neck. Kael flipped towards the others and stabbed their necks. He successfully killed three of them.


    The two of them looked at their backs and saw that their brethren were killed. Kael swiftly moved at their backs and stabbed their necks.


    Kael continued his slaughter one after another pack. His enemies became his experience. He killed the ones that patrolled the second floor.

 48 To the ligh

    He has no problem assassinating weak kobolds on the first two floors. He was reminiscing every moment he has when he killed his enemies in the past. This cave floor was served as a training ground on assassinating his enemies. He encompassed the second floor and was walking through the piling corpses he made. It was only a little time before he will arrive on the third floor. The corpses were scattered on that floor and Kael was calm and collected. He walks to the stairs of the third floor. He saw the spiraling stairs and walks on it.


    Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak!


    His footsteps sounded on the stairs. Just like before, it was lit by never-ending torches. It burns and burns throughout the years. He didn''t meet other enemies yet until suddenly, there was a parading enemy that gushed out of the third floor. They have shields equipped and a sword.


    Kael prepared himself, it will be a frontal attack that will happen so he sheathed his daggers. His fighting style will not be hindered even with the use of daggers but a sword with ample length will be the weapon that has the advantage.


    He draws his steel sword and prepared for combat. Kael''s mastery of swords was of a master. Rivaling his father despite his age. His father was surprised by his growth and he regarded him to be a genius. So he trained him to the fullest. Kael was very observant since young and very talented when copying others.


    Kael jumped from stairs to stairs and he dived into the fray. He smashed the shield of the kobold with his axe kick. He turned and slashed them, cleaving three kobolds in split seconds. Kael then furiously slashed them with a diagonal rising slash. The kobolds were slashed and were thrown from the stairs; making them fall to the third floor. Even he has the advantage, he was cautious. He didn''t let them hit him. He evaded their attacks that were slow.


    The kobolds paraded the stairs and Kael was on the top of it. They were below and Kael was attacking them without mercy. He blocked the entrance of the second floor and he was a nuisance from the kobolds'' perspective.


    They wondered why this man was so strong. Kael was looking down at them as they were going up. He furiously kicked their shields and the ones he kicked were helplessly falling from the stairs.


    "This was fun! Let''s kick some more!", Kael bellowed in excitement. There were five of the kobolds that fell from the stairs and it was adding each time he kicks another one.


    He kicked another one and it howled as it fell. It then produced a banging sound.


    The enemies realized their disadvantage but it was too late. They panicked to return to the third floor but Kael didn''t let them escape. Kael was slashing each one who was returning to the third floor. Kael made a horizontal slash and vertical slash to them, he included diagonal slash in-between. They all fell victim to his steel sword.


    The enemies were all killed and there were none left. Kael was on the third floor and was remembering their deal. The guild master will recognize him if he can kill all of the kobolds in the Hentana cave.


    "Leave no one alive.", Barrys said to him in the past.


    His heart throbbed in excitement. He will be given a chance to learn all job-class and it further motivated him. Kael''s dream will be reachable with his own hands. With just a little push he will be reaching it.


    The enemies were brutally slashed by his sword. He left no one alive on the third floor. It was a one-sided slaughter.


    It was bloody all over and the parade of enemies again gushed out of the fourth floor.


    Kael saw them and he attacked them. They were the two-handed wielders. He dashed towards them and killed all the way. They were the ones that guarded the fifth floor but they were all killed by Kael.


    Kael proceeded to the fifth floor. It was the same with the fifth floor. It was a one-sided slaughter. Kael attacked them with brilliance, it was like an adult tiger playing with pups. He killed them all while using his fastest speed and efficiency.


    He arrived on the sixth floor and saw miners in there. They all retreated and the fighters arrived. He clashed with them, his enemies were the guards of that mining kobolds. They were equipped with armors and swords. A long sword to be exact. It was longer compared to Kael''s steel sword. They wielded it with mastery and Kael saw that they were the elite.


    According to Kael''s info, the sixth floor was their mining area and the seventh floor was their iron-making factory. Eight and nine were their breeding area and ten were the boss room.


    Kael was aware of the fact that he will not last long if he consumed his stamina potion on the first five floors. So he saved it for the emergencies, he was panting to the tiring process but was alive and kicking. He spent his stamina on the first five floors and the sixth-to-tenth will be harder. Kael was aware of this fact so he saved the stamina potion.


    Kael immediately drank a stamina potion. He confronted the ones who have armors and Kael was fighting them. They were seven in numbers and they were hardy. Kael''s slashes were only making sparks in their armors.


    He saw that they were extra cautious than the ones he encountered in the past. They immediately retreat after they slashed Kael. Kael on the contrary was evading their slashes. Slash after slash, he evades them.


    Kael remembered his father''s teaching of crumpling the armors of the enemies.


    "If the blades were not enough to slash through their armors, how about you deal blunt attacks in them by your sword.", his father said to him in the past.


    Kael then tightened his grip on his sword and attacked with more force. Dealing blunt damage to the enemies with his sword.


    Tang! Tang! Tang! Tang!


    He battered their armors until it crumpled due to the impact. His sword on the contrary was dulled by it.


    The enemies spat blood due to the impact. They were thrown by Kael''s force and they didn''t fight back after it. His enemies stopped moving afterward.

 49 Blind

    It was on the sixth floor that was bloody. The kobold miners escaped him due to the pesky kobold elites. Kael then hunted the kobold miners. It was time to sneak attack them.


    He was on the sixth floor at that time and he wants to go to the seventh floor. The escaped miners were on the seventh floor by that time.


    Kael sneaked to their tunnels and has felt the hot wind of the metal works. He saw the glowing hot melted irons in a large tub where they were boiling it. The miners were in their breeding grounds and the armed kobolds were there, present to attack him immediately.


    Kael''s plan to assassinate them will be a lot harder due to the fact that they have lights in their metal works. He will have to approach them without being seen. He saw that there were guards that were positioned to the door towards the eight floors. He will be attacking in the broad daylight when he was lighted up by the glowing stones. The glowing stones were located to the ceiling and eliminating it will be a lot easier to sneak attack his enemies. Only the glowing tub of metals will be left as their light source.


    Kael initiated a plan and he was aiming for the lights. He throws a smoke bomb to the metal works and throws his daggers to the glowing stone in the ceiling. Throwing them while attached to the chains in his hands. The kobolds coughed to the smoke and they were perplexed with a mix of dread that struck them.


    Ping! Ping! Ping! Ping!


    Kael successfully eliminated their light source and the glowing stones shattered as he attacked them.


    The remaining light source was the glowing hot metal and the smoke from the smoke bomb has dissipated. Kael has the opportunity to kill them one by one.


    The kobolds were confused why they can''t smell him and still, they sniffed the air¨Cwaiting for someone to detect. In their dismay, they smelled nothing.


    Whoosh!


    They immediately turned around to see where the sound was coming from. It was a shadow that just passed by. It was a terrifying experience for them and it only made them on edge. It was not easy for them to feel the feeling of being hunted. Not for the prideful kobolds that hunted the humans in their territory. A territory that they spent their lives since they were born.


    Kael dashed in the darkness while he unsheathed his daggers. He attached it to the chains in his hands to strike mid-ranged and to slash in close range.


    Kael was resisting his excitement to hunt them in the dark¨Chis specialty in the past. He reverse gripped his daggers assaulted one who''s back was shown to him. He slashed the neck and retreated in the dark.


    The kobolds looked to their mate who collapsed in the ground and can''t help but be more alert than before. They didn''t know why the enemy was hiding and it irritated them. If they can say human language, they will call him a "coward". A coward that hides in the dark. They will provoke Kael to show himself. But sadly, they don''t know the human language. It only added to their irritation.


    Whoosh! Shiek!


    Another one was stabbed to the neck and he collapsed.


    Tok!


    They all looked to where the sound was. Kael throws stones to shift their direction. He then stabbed two of them that he saw. The nearest was stabbed.


    They all looked to where he was killing their mates. Only ended up looking to dead corpses. They felt the helplessness as their kindred were slaughtered one by one. It was time for them to call others.


    Awooo!


    They let out they cry for help. It was a signal of reinforcement.


    Kael was overjoyed by it. It meant for another killing spree.


    The cave was full of their cries and it was deafening. It only made his sneak to be more unnoticed. Kael dashed and he killed one in different directions to confuse them. He killed one on the west then he went to the east to kill another one. He was like a reaper of lives when in the dark. His eyes have managed to adapt to the darkness and can clearly see them.


    He killed every last one of them without mercy and reserve. Like how John Wick was in the movie. He was passionate in every way to kill.


    Everyone was killed and Kael hid in the darkness. The reinforcement arrived and they were fully armed with shields and armors. They all have swords, some were axes and maces. They have torchbearers which were served as their eyes. Just like eliminating their eyesight. It was their strength as well as their weakness. Killing the torchbearers was the goal but they were protected by the shield bearers. He saw three squads of kobolds and they have their own torchbearers.


    Kael was currently hiding in the darkness. He will have to be more cunning if he wants to eliminate the enemies.

 50 Blind part 2

    The enemies were in three groups. They have torchbearers each. Kael will be trickier if he needs to kill them. One group went to the west side, the other group went to the east, and the other one was in the north. Kael was hiding in the darkness. Not being seen by their eyes and not being smelled by their nose.


    Kael heard them growling while they bicker where was their enemy hides. Kael saw the ones who were on the north patrol and he plans to eradicate them first. They felt it was a race of time. They were hurriedly finding him. The one who slaughtered their brethren.


    Kael sneaks while peeping on the north patrol. They were seven in number. A torchbearer on the center and six fully armed kobolds with armor and shields. They were mixed weapon users with no identical weapon. One has a mace, the other was a morning star, sword, club, axe, and spear. All were elites of the pack.


    Kael initiated a plan to make them blind. Without their torches, it would be harder for them to find him.


    The kobolds have sensitive noses and ears. Their eyes have a night vision like the wolves. It was all written in his monster almanac. But sadly, Kael was so silent that they have difficulty finding his presence. His misdirection of their senses was on par on the greatest ninjas of the past. He was using their own noise to hide his footsteps and he moves every time the noise was made by his enemies. It was so close to perfection that his masters in the past life were amazed.


    Kael was hiding in the corner of the darkness. Ready to attack anytime, but he attacked at the right time. His enemies were on edge and their breaths were heavy. Their hearts palpitate heavily as they saw the dead bodies of their comrades. Some were still alive but beyond salvage. They lost great amounts of blood by the time they arrived. They can only mercy-kill them to make their souls rest and not to be still lingering in pain.


    Kael pitied them but they have killed many people far surpassed his hands can count. Killing them was justice-served to the ones they have killed. It was to pay for their sins and it was not a bad thought for Kael. He felt like a vigilante that aimed to eradicate the pesky monsters of this cave and to also end their killings. It was the right thing to do.


    He jumped towards the north patrol with silence and on the time when he was in the air. He aimed towards the torch. He launched his chained daggers towards it.


    Whoosh!


    The torch was hit by the dagger. The enemies startled by it as the torch has stopped emitting its light. Kael then jumped towards them.


    He reverse-gripped his daggers and launched his stab to the one who holds the torch. Two of his daggers were used to stab that pierced the neck. The part where the armor was not covering. The enemy then stopped moving.


    The other guards were perplexed. They didn''t expect him to attack the torchbearer first. They immediately swing their weapons to Kael but he jumped again to the air.


    Kael landed to the distance and they followed him. The kobolds have their eyesight and it helped them to see in the dark. Kael also has adjusted his eyesight in the dark. Making them toe to toe with each other.


    Kael immediately vanished as they followed them. They stumbled upon the corpses but immediately stands up afterward.


    Whoosh!


    A dagger that was attached to the chains was launched to them. They were surprised by it as it pierced one of their comrade who was showing his back. He was hit on the nape and it immediately ended his life. Four of them remained. He pulled his chains and then ran again towards the darkness.


    The kobolds howled to alarm their brethren.


    Awooo!


    They all howled and the others were alarmed. They immediately went to their direction.


    While they alarmed their brethren, Kael went to them. They were going to their kindred but Kael was already heading to their direction.


    He attacked with the right timing. He moved to the shadow of their body as light passed them. They have a blind spot and it was their shadow that they produced.


    He attacked the torchbearer with his full speed. He jumped towards it and axe-kicked the torch. Making it lost its light.


    Their formation was in disarray and Kael grabbed the opportunity while they were temporarily blind. Looking at the light for a period of time will make your pupil smaller and when the light was put off, you will lose your eyesight. It will be a matter of time before your pupil can adjust to the darkness. It was what he read in survival books he has read in the past. It was great info that can turn the tide of battle.


    Without giving them time to get their eyesight back, Kael attacked their backs where the armor has a gap. He jumped in their backs, stabbing them from one after another.


    He stabbed them without leaving anyone alive. He eliminated one squad and he was heading to another.

 51 Blind part 3

    Kael was heading to the other group. The remaining enemies have assembled and combined their forces. Kael anticipated it and it was the right thing to do from the start. Their first plan was to search Kael in three groups and when they found him, it was time to assault him together with the others.


    It was their plan but it was spoiled by Kael. He was cunning enough to out-wit them. Kael has eliminated one of the search groups and has a crippled one. They were left with no choice but to combine their forces.


    He moved swiftly in the darkness. Leaving no trace of his presence. His footsteps were like a cat that runs at full speed. Even he was running, he just barely made a noise. It was the culmination of his training in the past.


    He was approaching like a swift wind. He saw them huddled together, leaving no openings for Kael to strike them. He saw that they were protecting their torchbearer. They were nine in number. The original patrol has been added by four other kobolds that belonged to the group whom Kael attacked. They felt a sense of confidence when they were huddled together. With their numbers increased, their morale has risen by one.


    Kael was observing them by the distance. They made a circular formation with shields lifted up to cover their chest. If Kael will attack in the front, it will be as good as surrendering in sneaking. His efforts to hide himself to surprise-attack them will be gone to waste.


    He was hiding on one of the containers of boiling metal. He was waiting for an opportunity to attack when a hot bubble of metal popped and was flown to the ground.


    "Wait! I have a good idea!", he shouted in his mind.


    He was encompassing in the dark and was finding a bucket. He found one in the surroundings. It was a bucket of water that was in their eating washing area.


    He poured out the water and then he approached the tub of boiling hot metal. Kael wrapped his hands with a cloth. He scooped a burning metal and it was in lava form.


    Kael was carrying live lava of burning metal and he was enduring its heat.


    He sneaked and followed them as they went towards his opposite direction. Kael throws a stone towards the opposite direction and it sounded like a clanging metal.


    Tang!


    They all looked to the direction where it sounds. Kael sneaked and was moving fast. He needs to approach them with silence for them not to hear his presence. He was getting nearer and nearer but the distance was still far.


    "I need to get closer!", he said in his mind as his sweat trickled his cheeks.


    He was getting nearer and approached the right and exact direction he needs to be at. He then prepared his strength to sprinkle the hot molten lava. At the right time, he splashed it in the air.


    "May you rest in peace!", he exclaimed in his mind.


    The kobolds were splashed with hot molten lava of melted metal. The gaps in their armors where their skin was not covered were burned by it. They howled in their agony and they were in pain.


    Awoooo!


    Arggggguuuckkkkk!


    Argggkkkk!


    They were rolling on the floor by the unbearable and searing pain that they felt. Their skin was sizzling and Kael can hear its sound.


    He was just standing in awe. Not even planned in ending their fates. They bellowed in agony until their last breath. Their lives ended and they became his experience points. The more he slaughtered, the more he leveled up.


    Kael walked past their dead bodies and proceeded towards the door of the seventh floor. It leads towards the stairs downwards¨Cthe eight floors, the floor where they were resting.


    It was the floor where they were breeding but it was also the floor where they have the largest in number. It will be much a greater risk but the elites were eliminated. Only the pups were left.


    Kael has his confidence but the guardian of the Hentana cave was still living. He approached the stairs and while he was walking, he saw big bright red eyes. It was the largest kobold he has seen.


    "Dreadpaws!", Kael smiled bitterly.

 52 Boss

    "Dreadpaws!", Kael shouted in his mind.


    Kael''s skin hairs went up. His breathing became faster. His heart raced like never been before. His body temperature went up as he became excited. Excited to clash with him. He was waiting for the right time for their duel. Kael''s thirst can only be quenched by a strong enemy or even stronger enemy like Dreadpaws.


    He was the reason why they were still living despite the attacks on their lair. The boss of the cave, the kobold champion who was undefeated. He killed many adventurers in the past, far more than his underlings have totally killed. They have a boss to rely on and the kobolds felt secured because they have a guardian. He has many scars on his body, it only proved that he has survived many battles.


    Tugug! Tugug! Tugug!


    The footsteps of Dreadpaws sounded as he steps. He has a height of six feet. A big scar on the face. Two red bright eyes that were shining in the darkness. A big two-handed sword with a thickness of six inches. It was a two-meter long and Dreadpaws was carrying it only with on hand. He didn''t even felt that it was heavy for him.


    Kael on the contrary has a one-meter steel sword with a thickness of two inches. It was literally dulled in the past battle so it will be a tad harder to make deep wound to his enemy.


    For Kael, the sword was the best choice for the duel. But due to its dullness, it can''t even cut his thick hide covered with fur.


    He was looking at his daggers that have killed the kobolds. It was not too dulled compared to his sword.


    "Maybe this would suffice!", he said while looking at it.


    Kael was plan A was to make a sneak attack first and make an injury that will weaken him. If it will be not effective then he will switch to plan B which was a frontal attack with his chained dagger.


    Kael then retreated to the darkness. He dashed towards the tubs of hot boiling metals where there were hiding spots that can make you sneak attack your enemies.


    Dreadpaws on the contrary chased after him. He was running on his two feet and was carrying his big sword. Kael was running in random directions to confuse his enemy. He dashed in the left then went to the right after he arrived at the intersection.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Dreadpaws was having a hard time chasing him and was slamming his sword to Kael. Kael was evading and dashing left and right. They were chasing each other for a time.


    It was consuming their stamina and they were both panting. Luckily, Kael has a stamina potion.


    Kael grabbed a stamina potion in his potion pouch located at his potion belt. He gulped the potion after he has escaped Dreadpaws'' chase.


    Dreadpaws was panting after he chased Kael. He has lost him after an hour of chasing.


    Kael''s plan to hide was a success. He can begin to sneak attack him. If only Dreadpaws was not able to find him in the midst of his sneak attack. Then he can land a devastating blow to him.


    Kael was hiding and Dreadpaws was panting. He can hear his long breathes as he was in the darkness. Kael sneaked towards his back and he was not yet seen. He was able to sneak without a sound. He prepared his daggers and reverse-gripped it. He has only one chance to execute his plan A and plan B will be more difficult to execute. He can only sneak attack him once and the next one will be a brawl.

 53 Boss part 2

    Kael was sneaking in the darkness. He can do it without being seen. His presence was hidden by the sense-hindering potion and all he needs to do was hide. He has the skills of a ninja in the past. He was trained to be one and has mastered the sneak and other skills of a ninja have. Aside from being a ninja in the past, he was also a great spy and a professional killer. It was one of his skill sets. His skills were mastered to perfection and it has many more. He was trained since he was a kid and he was schooled to the assassin school. Learning from different aspects to be a professional assassin.


    He was sneaking and Dreadpaws were finding him. He was hiding in the dark and was observing. The plan was to distract him with a stone and launch his sneak attack. He saw Dreadpaws in the tubs of burning metals and he began his attack.


    Kael throws a stone to the tub and it produced a clanging sound.


    Tang!


    Dreadpaws looked to where the sound was coming from and thus showing his back to Kael. Kael moved with silence and dashed to where the Dreadpaws was. He dashed without sound and he was hiding his footsteps on the sound of the clanging metal that still echoed in the cave.


    He moved steadily and he was nearing the distance where Dreadpaws was. He jumped towards him and prepared to attack. He reversed-gripped his dagger and then attacked Dreadpaws. Dreadpaws on the contrary was still distracted by the sound and were looking at the opposite direction where Kael was.


    Kael was on the air and he held his breath. Not making any sound as his heart raced due to the excitement. He was approaching so fast then he stabbed him to the shoulders between his neck.


    Shiek!


    Shiek!


    Kael dug through his shoulders and Dreadpaws shrieked to the pain. Kael retreated to the darkness and Dreadpaws was bleeding. Kael then prepared for a frontal attack. With the enemy was bleeding, it was greatly weakened. Kael grabbed the chance furiously attack.


    He attacked in the front. Dreadpaws was in pain but it didn''t hinder his movements.


    Roarrrrr!!!


    Dreadpaws roared and it was deafening. Kael covered his ears because his eardrums will explode if he will not cover it. Dreadpaws grabbed the opportunity while Kael was still stunned in the process.


    Kael felt that his eardrums were bleeding but it was not shattered. Dreadpaws attacked him with his bastard sword. He slashed Kael and Kael was surprised in the process. Blocking with his curved daggers against the heavy bastard sword that weights to a couple of hundred kilograms.


    Bang!


    Kael was thrown in the process. Thanks to his ample strength, he barely defended himself and was not slashed in half.


    Dreadpaws was resilient and has great vitality. Kael needs to deal more damage if he wants to kill Dreadpaws. Dreadpaws'' experiences were not a joke. He has survived more battles than Kael can count in his hands. He was hunted by many more adventurers in the past and he has survived them all. That includes the high ranking individuals in the guild.


    Dreadpaws approached him with great speed. He made a vertical slash and Kael evaded in hair''s breadth. He was shocked at Dreadpaw''s speed.


    He was barely evading his strike. He was still feeling the pain when he was thrown to the impact when he defended his attack.


    Kael rolled to the ground and Dreadpaws would not let him breathe. Kael back-flipped and landed on the ground standing.


    Bang!


    Another blow was evaded by Kael. Dreadpaws swings his sword and Kael stepped back to evade his strike. Dreadpaws'' strength didn''t even lower a bit. He has greater vitality than Kael has imagined. His vitality was not a joke. Kael was barely evading his strikes. He was still flinching from the pain he has suffered when he was thrown.


    Swoosh!


    Dreadpaws made a horizontal swing that arches. Kael ducked at the right time and Kael evaded again his strike. He gripped his dagger tighter than before and cuts his Achilles heel. With the cut he inflicted, Dreadpaws was on his knees. Kael grabbed the opportunity to attack Dreadpaws.


    Rapid slash!


    He furiously slashed Dreadpaws and he was full of cuts. Dreadpaws swings his sword while on his knees but Kael leisurely evades it while attacking.


    Shing! Shing! Shing! Shing!


    He inflicted him with great damage but Dreadpaws was still not down. Kael felt pity for his enemy. He double-slashed his neck and ended his pitiful life.


    Bang!


    Dreadpaws were down and he slammed his lifeless body to the ground. Kael wiped his daggers to his fur and proceeded to the eight level.

 54 Harves

    Kael walked past Dreadpaw''s dead body. They became his experience points. He was entering the eight level. This level was the place where they breed and the reason why it was not explored in the past was because of their guardian. Dreadpaws was the reason why they were untouched in the past up to the present. They became plentiful as the time goes by and has established great numbers. Kael was smelling a dog''s smell that was intolerable. They have a place to hide and it was lighted with glowing stone. Dog hairs were everywhere as well as poop. They urinate everywhere thus making the cave have a stench.


    "As expected to their lair", he exclaimed.


    Kael was not wasting time and he poured his monster attractant to his sword. Minutes later, he saw them attack him. Kael moves swiftly and used his daggers to attack them.


    He furiously slashed each one of them and they were all pups. Some were females and some were pups.


    Kael was not being merciful because of the fact that they were monsters. Their instinct was to kill everyone who intrudes on their home. It was like a blessing-in-disguise. Kael was like bathing in experience points right now. They were like walking experience points that Kael was excitedly picked for harvest. Kael slashed them and was not planning to leave anyone alive. With the monster attractant on hand, they were crazily running towards his direction.


    Kael slashed the ones who approached him. They were all slashed with his sword and he was leisurely evading them. Due to their inexperience, they were killed immediately. They don''t have any experience when it comes to fighting because their adult males were the ones who were fighting the intruders. The bodies piled on the eight floor. Kael went to the ninth floor and repeated the process. They were slain by his sword. Kael finished killing them all due to the fact that no one was approaching him anymore.


    He soloed the mission and then he killed them all and extracted the monster cores.


    He finished within the day because he used monster attractant. The battle was bloody but it was a normal day for Kael.


    Kael picked their monster core and it was all amounted to a hundred thirty. He exited the cave and saw that the other adventurers were still going in.


    He sold his weapons and monster cores to the merchant.


    "How much for these?", Kael said as he piled the monster cores that he collected and as well as their weapons.


    The merchant was perplexed and thus he was stunned a bit. Other adventurers were also shocked by his loot.


    "I said how much for these?", Kael repeated himself.


    The merchant shakes his head and looked again.


    "Oh! I''m sorry! that monster cores were two silvers each! and the weapons were two silver each also! The monster cores amounted to twenty-six gold coins and the weapons were two gold coins.", he said briefly.


    "Thank you!", Kael said as he received his money.


    Kael then went towards the capital and was thinking to rest early.

 55 The deal

    Kael was walking towards the capital. He was encompassing the pathway that has yellow leaf maples. It was a sight to behold when you''ve seen it for the first time. Kael was looking at the bright light of the sun''s rays and saw many stray birds that were resting on the trees. They chirped and was making a sound that has a melody. Kael listened to them as he walks to the pathway. Listening to them made his journey towards the capital not boring.


    He arrived at the gates of the capital. He was checked by the guards and was verified that he was an adventurer. He walked past them and went to the food stalls.


    Kael was happy to eat his prize for his endeavors. He ate ramen that afternoon. Sipping its soup was refreshing. The saltiness of the soup was just right that was complemented by the spice of garlic. Eating the chunks of grilled meat, he tasted it to be flavorful. He burped to the soup and made a loud sound.


    He paid the fee and exited the stall. It was dawn when he was walking towards the guild. He was on the streets and saw that the people were going home. He saw different persons with different jobs. The sun was setting and the people were going home.


    He arrived at the adventurer guild. Its decoration was the same as before, nothing changed. As he entered the door, the adventurers were going home. It was the time of day where they were going home.


    Kael went to the reception desk and approached the rewards desk.


    "I want to talk to the guild master.", Kael said to her.


    "Okay wait for a minute, I will call him.", she said to him.


    She touched her cheeks and paused for a bit.


    "Okay, yes. Please went inside sir.", she instructed Kael.


    Kael then went inside the door. He saw the same room as before and there was a man sitting at his desk.


    "Come in. Have a seat.", Barrys said to him.


    Kael went to the chair and he sat on it.


    "So what''s the update? Did you finished the mission?", he asked while reading a book.


    "Yes! I''ve finished the mission.", Kael said to him.


    "That''s great! Let''s celebrate then! Don''t worry, I am a man of his word. You will be sponsored by me when you will enroll in the academy. Having to master all Dwight''s job-class was your dream right! Then you will reach your dream!", he said to him cheerfully.


    "You were one of the best to pull that off! I will prepare for your promotion! As you can see, the kobold cave has many resources. From the iron mine to the glowing stones. It has huge deposits there. Eradicating them would be the best. For that, you have my backing.", Barrys added.


    Barrys then called his underlings to prepare Kael''s promotion. Kael was waiting for the chair and he was handed a letter that was written by the guild master. It has written letters in it that says,


    Adventurer Guild of the Dwight.


    Drew Barrys,


    The guild master,


    "This was to certify that Kael Melvin was a sponsored student of adventurer guild. All the job-class he will attend will be sponsored by the guild master. He was an exemplary candidate to master all job-class in the academy. Thus he has a bright future and has a lot of potentials. Signed, Drew Barrys".


    It was what the letters contained. Kael puts it to his backpack to safe keep it.


    "Keep that and hand that letter to the Dean if you want to be recommended. It has the seal of the adventurer guild so it was legitimate.", he said to Kael.


    Kael was very happy and he went to said his goodbye to the guild master. He was one step nearer towards his dream to master all job-class.


    He immediately went home and rest for the day. It was a very tiring day for him thus he washed and rest early.

 56 Messenger

    Kael waked up early in the morning. He washed and prepared to exercise. He remembered the routine to make his stats to level up. It was called "Character stat cultivation".


    Kael pushed ups for one-hundred and sit-ups for one hundred. It resulted in his strength to went up by one.


    Kael then rapidly side-steps to increase his dexterity. He was sweaty due to his rapid speed. His dexterity went up by one.


    Kael then jogs around his room. Making his vitality rose up by one. He wiped his sweaty face with a towel.


    After it all, he focused and gathered mana in his core. He felt the mana and he was sweating in the process. His focus increased by one.


    After it all, he grabbed the adventurer card he has. It was glowing and it says, "You have leveled up."


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 18


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (28) +


    Dexterity (33) +


    Vitality (33) +


    Focus (84) +


    Stats points: 54


    ....


    Kael puts it back to his backpack. Kael prepared his backpack to went to the king. He has the documents to serve as the evidence to the illegal slave trade of the other lords where he needs to imprison. Kael was excited about his new journey and readied all his belongings.


    He brandished his dulled sword and daggers. He washed his sweaty body in the bathtub. He changed his clothes to formal wear. It was covered with robes with hoods. At least, he needs to be presentable to the king. He didn''t carry weapons because it will be confiscated by the guards. Meeting the king was his goal and he will introduce himself as the messenger of the Lord of Golden Valley. Lord Mael Kael to be exact.


    He checked out to the inn and went towards the King''s castle. It was called the Dwight Castle.


    On the way, he saw many people who were busy with their own businesses. He was walking with his hoods up. Looking other people under his hood.


    He encompassed the market and saw bustling crowds. He was quiet in his travel. He was observing as he walks.


    Other people were buying goods. Some were giving flowers to their loved ones. Some were buying bread. Some were also busy with cooking the food that they were selling.


    Kael passed through the market and was on his way towards the castle. All he needs to do was to act as the messenger of Mael Kael. The current lord of Golden Valley. He saw that there were also people that request the audience to the king. Kael was one of them.


    He saw that the guards were inspecting the belongings of the ones who want to enter the castle. He has no weapon so his inspection will be a lot faster than having one. The guards stood on the gate and have halberds. It was like a spear with an axe on its tip. They were four in numbers. One checked his belongings and saw that he has no weapon.


    "What was your purpose?", asked the guard to Kael.


    "To deliver a letter to the king signed with the Lord of Golden Valley. I act as his messenger to be exact.", Kael replied.


    The guard then lets him pass. The palace of the king was extravagant. With a garden on the front that has many flowers. It was maintained by their gardener. They have plants that were formed to a horse. Some were giraffe and many more animals. The garden was not only having animals but has flowers that were shaped to balls, cone, and squares, also triangle.


    They were escorted with guards on their backs. Kael entered the palace and it has golden plated corners of the rooms. With marble pillars and floors, it was very expensive. The windows were big and they have huge curtains at the top of the windows. It was an empty room with only pictures of the past kings in the walls and a window that lets the sunshine pass through.


    While they were walking, they saw a door and there were two full-plated silver armored guards in the door. They were both armed with swords and kite shields. The guards opened the door and then Kael immediately saw the king.


    Kael then went inside and the doors were shut with a bang.

 57 The king

    Kael entered first inside the king''s throne room. Kael has entered the door and the door closed with a bang. He saw by the distance that the king was sitting in his noble throne. The room was painted red. Big windows on the side of the room and golden plated corners in the throne room. The windows were covered with thick golden curtains. The floor has a red carpet that leads towards the throne.


    Kael immediately removed his robes to let him be seen by the king. The king has his noble robes and he wears a crown in his head with a staff.


    The guards were all equipped with silver-plated armors and they covered their head with helm. The mood was heavy as Kael walks towards the king. He can hear his own footsteps as he walks. His heart raced a bit as he approached. He felt that he was gonna have a fever as the time goes by.


    "Kael Melvin at your service.", Kael said as he kneeled his one leg to the floor.


    "At ease!", said the king with a loud voice.


    Kael stands up not so fast nor not too slow. He stands straight then bowed. Without a second thought, the king spoke.


    "State your business.", said the King in a clear and a loud voice.


    "As you wish your highness! I came here to deliver a message from your right hand in the name of Lord Mael of Golden Valley. I act as his messenger.", He said as he grabbed something in his backpack.


    Shing!


    All the guard''s weapons immediately went to his neck. Kael nearly collapsed as he hands the book and documents to him. It was grabbed by his assistant but the swords were still on his neck.


    "That was from your right hand, Sir Vanz Aldougs", Kael said as he gasped air.


    "From him?", the king pondered.


    The king immediately stands up and grabbed the book.


    Hahahhahah!


    "Was he alive? where was he?", The king asked.


    "He was alive your highness! But where he was? that would be a secret.", Kael said to him.


    "Everyone let me have a moment with him for a minute. Everybody out!", shouted the king.


    They immediately went outside the throne room and they were left alone in there.


    "So where were we? Aha! where was he hiding?", the king asked.


    "He was currently hiding on Lord Mael''s mansion. He fled to the Golden Valley when an incident happened. A dungeon gate has appeared and his daughter was kidnapped by ghouls. Which later on was saved by the Lord himself. So as a man who was indebted to him, he worked as a right hand.", Kael briefly said.


    "So that means he will not come back anymore?", the king asked.


    "He will not your majesty. Not until he was hunted by the Lords. He can''t go back.", he said.


    "Yeah, that was the wise thing to do. He was not safe here because they have elite assassins that were skilled enough to kill him. I as the king can''t protect him because they have eyes everywhere. They will only be trapped here like a caged bird. Tell Lord Mael that I will personally visit him someday. And the evidence here will be safe with me. I will act immediately.", The king said to him.


    "Thank you your majesty! I will make sure to notify Lord Mael. Since I''ve completed my mission. I can leave now.", Kael said to the king.


    "By the way, what''s your name?", the King asked.


    "I''m Kael your majesty", He replied.


    "Kael! a messenger of Lord Mael of Golden Valley. I am indebted to your lord for saving Vanz''s life. Ask him if he wants a gift in advance.", the king said to Kael with a serious face and tone.


    "I believe he was not materialistic your highness. I believe that he will wish for friendship rather than material things.", Kael said to him.


    "Oh really? then I will reward him! As a friend that saved the life of my previous Vanz!", he said to him.


    "Your highness was wise! I''m sure that he will be happy!", Kael replied.


    "I will not waste your precious time your majesty! This humble messenger will leave immediately.", Kael said to him as he was bowing down.


    "Thank you for your message! I will immediately dispatch my men to apprehend them.", the king promised.


    Kael went outside and saw that the guards went inside the throne room. He was escorted by guards as he went outside the mansion.

 58 Update

    Kael exited the mansion of the king. He was escorted by the guards until he was on the gate. Kael proceeded to go back to the adventurer guild. It was noon and the sun was at its peak. Luckily, Kael has a robe with a hood that covers his head and body. He will go first to the inn to change his formal wear. He encompassed the streets that noon and saw again the bustling people on the market.


    The merchants were loud as they promote their goods. The crowds were also as loud as them for they were haggling to get a better price. They were busy with their own lives and Kael didn''t mind them. He passed by the market and the crowds were thinner at that time.


    Kael went to the inn and then changed his clothes. He wears a t-shirt and shorts.


    "I better cultivate my stats first before going to the adventurer guild.", he said to himself.


    He pushed-ups again to improve his strength. He was sweaty due to his exercise. He pushed-ups till one-hundred and he can feel that his body was lighter than before. After his pushed-ups, he proceeded to sit-ups. He sits and stands up back and forth till one-hundred.


    Kael hops and immediately felt the difference from before.


    He proceeded to improve his dexterity. He side-steps rapidly from slow, then he began to increase his speed. Slowly his speed increased until it reached his peak. Kael was very sweaty in the process.


    Next was his vitality, he jogs in the room for minutes. Inhaling and exhaling while he jogs until his face was covered by his cold sweat. He felt refreshed and he felt that his vitality was greater than before.


    He proceeded to his focus cultivation. He gathered mana in his core and absorbed mana in the air. He circulated his mana and repeated the process. His focus went up and he finished his cultivation.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank F


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 18


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (29) +


    Dexterity (34) +


    Vitality (34) +


    Focus (85) +


    Stats points: 54


    ....


    Kael then washed his sweaty shirt and then changed clothes. He changed to adventurer attire that has a shirt and was covered with leather armor. He puts his leather bracers and foot guard. He puts his sword to his back and his daggers in his waist. He puts his backpack in his back and prepared to leave. He went to the door and closed his room. He locked the door with his key and went downstairs. After it, he checked out from the lobby.


    He went to the adventurer guild to have an update. He walks in the streets and the crowd was the same as before. He saw the crowds were many in number. He arrived at the adventurer guild and saw that there were many adventurers there. The flag of Dwight was the same as before and nothing changed.


    He approached the lady on the desk and then the lady immediately saw him.


    "Sir Kael, we have an update to you. You''ve been promoted to Rank E plus! Hand me your adventurer card and Let me change your rank. Due to the feat of killing the kobold boss. You''ve been promoted. The rewards of killing him will be handed over together with your card.", she said politely.


    Kael smiled and he hurriedly gave his adventurer card. He grabbed from his backpack and handed it over.


    "Please wait for your card. We will process it immediately.", she said to him.


    Kael went to the bench and waited for the update.


    He waited for minutes and his card was given to him together with his reward. Dreadpaws has a bounty of five gold coins and Kael successfully killed him.


    "Here sir, your card has been updated. Here''s the reward for slaying Dreadpaws", she said to him and gave it to Kael.


    "Thank you! I will surely treasure it.", he said to her while grabbing the card and the five gold coins.


    His card has been updated and Kael was happy.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 18


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (29) +


    Dexterity (34) +


    Vitality (34) +


    Focus (85) +


    Stats points: 54


    ....

 60 Coming home

    Kael prepared his journey towards Golden Valley. He was currently walking towards the traveling carriages that were going to and fro towards Golden Valley. He saw the driver and paid the fee for the travel. He went inside and he traveled towards the Golden Valley. The air blew colder and he was feeling its breeze.


    Kael paid for the fee of other persons due to the fact that he was hurrying to go home. He traveled alone without a company to talk to. Kael encompassed the Golden Mountains and he felt the chilly wind. He can see from the mountain top¨Cthe town he was ruling. He can also see the extension of residences of newcomers from the mountain tops.


    Kael then encompassed the road towards the Town. They arrived at the terminal and Kael walked towards his mansion. He arrived at the mansion and it was afternoon. He saw the sky was painted with red and yellow. The clouds were like foams of soap and were like cotton if you look at the ground. He arrived at the gate and to his surprise, he saw his mother and his butler in the gate. Sir Vanz was not currently with them.


    "Son!", shouted his mother from the gate.


    "Mom!", Kael shouted.


    They opened the door then Erza hugged him.


    "I really missed you! How''s your travel?", Erza asked him while still hugging him.


    "It was okay mom, I recently became Rank E plus as an adventurer.", Kael replied.


    "Really!? Wow that''s great!", Erza blurted out.


    "Yeah!", Kael replied.


    "Maledic prepare a warm bath to Mael and also dinner.", Erza said to Maledic.


    "As you wish mistress", Maledic said as he bowed.


    "Let''s get inside!", she said to Kael.


    Kael unpacks his crocodile leather backpack in his room and removes his leather armor. Kael washed with a warm bath and prepared for dinner.


    They ate that afternoon and Kael was merry with his mother. Kael was happy that he came home and he was refreshed with the mood while they talked in their dinner.


    After the ate, Kael and his mother talked in the living room.


    "We were attacked that night and luckily we have guards. They were apprehended and they talked who was their lord was. They even left a letter that says, "We will attack Golden Valley in one week".


    Kael became serious. It was a treat that they will prepare.


    Kael didn''t know where will they attack but they need to prepare for the worst. He was thinking of a plan but what can he do was prepare the guards and the army. The enemies will attack one week so they still have time to prepare.


    "We will arm our army with armors. We will double the production of full plated iron armors. Also the crafting of arrows. We will purchase health potions just in case. Let''s recruit the newly arrived settlers to the army and Maledic will train them with techniques. I will also help when it comes to fighting. Mom, you will be the commander. Let''s all survive this.", Kael said briefly.


    "They will come from the golden mountains first so let me be the bait. I will lure them to the west side of the town where you will wait for them and rain them with arrows. Then all was on your hand''s mom, you will command the army by that time.", Kael made his plan.


    "Splendid! As expected of my son!", She said.

 61 Preparation

    Kael prepared his troops on the west side of the town which was spacious. He assembled them and they were all lined up. The current army was trained to learn techniques by Maledic and the trainees were trained by Kael. His facial disguise was still not being lifted so he became the drill instructor of the newbies. They will train with him for the day.


    "Assemble! Line up! stand straight!", Maledic shouted.


    "This man here will be your instructor! His name was Kael Melvin! An E plus rank adventurer! He was a combatant and he will train you with different weapons.


    "Huh, him!?", said the one who was a middle-aged man.


    "If you were looking down on him then let''s test him first! I hope he will entertain you all. Now, who wants to challenge him?", said Maledic.


    "Me! Let me test him if he was a real deal.", said the man who underestimates him.


    The newbies were middle-aged men and some were teens. He was being looked down upon by the ones of the same age as him as well as the ones older than him. They really were newbies and Kael will let them taste his techniques.


    Kael waits for his opponent to grab a wooden sword and Kael also grabbed one.


    Kael prepared his battle stance.


    "Ready?", Kael asked him.


    His enemy has a larger body, bigger build, and larger arms. He grinned to the fact that he was facing a thirteen-years-old child.


    Kael was looking at him and was whistling.


    "Hey were you underestimating me? Let me show you to what happens when you underestimate adults!", he shouted.


    Maledic can''t even look straight to the man. He prays that Kael will be merciful with him.


    Kael puts his wooden sword in his shoulders and whistled again.


    Ha!


    His enemy attacked with a horizontal slash. Kael ducked and sweep kicked his feet. His enemy was tripped on the process.


    Guhuk!


    His enemy coughed dust as he tripped. He immediately stands up and launched his attacks to Kael.


    Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak!


    He was repelling his attacks and his blocks were not even moved by the heavy attacks of his enemy.


    Kael then went to the offensive. He attacked with force and his enemy was barely even holding his sword when Kael was attacking.


    Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak!


    Kael then smashed his sword with great force and it was thrown.


    Tok!


    It pierced the ground as it landed.


    "Anyone who wants to duel with me?", Kael asked.


    The wind blew and the dust was flown. It was utterly silent in the field. Their pride was crushed with reality. It was Kael who crushed it and they all felt that the person in front of them was a master.


    "Go back to your post.", said Kael to the one he confronted.


    He went back to his post and then they were on attention.


    "I will train you all to be disciplined and to be stronger. Stronger than before! The enemy will attack in six days and you will defend Golden Valley. I will train you to the bones and I don''t care what you were in the past. You were newbies and I''m your drill instructor! Understood?", Kael said.


    "Yes sir!", they shouted.


    "Understood!?", Kael repeated.


    "Yes sir!", they shouted again.


    "Good, now run around the field!", he said.


    They immediately ran around the field. They pushed ups till one hundred and sit-ups to one hundred also. They side-steps and was trained with different weapons.


    Kael then taught them how to use different weapons. It was until the afternoon that they have improvements.


    Kael dismissed them and he went to the blacksmithing station they have. He enchanted the full plated armors with different enchantments. It will be used as their armor for the upcoming battle. He also enchanted their weapons with different enchantments that Kael knows.

 62 Res

    Kael enchanted their armors with [Increased defense], [Weightlessness], [Resist elements], [Increased Attack speed], [Increased movement speed], [Slow mana regen.], [Slow stamina regen.], and [Slow stamina regen.].


    Kael then proceeded to the weapons. He enchanted it with [Increased strength], [Increased dexterity], and [Increased vitality]. He also added elemental damages like: [Fire damage], [Cold damage], [Electric damage], [Poison damage], and [Wind damage]. [Increase critical rate], [Increase critical damage], and [Increased dodge rate].


    Kael has consumed five hundred mana potions for enchanting a whole five hundred sets of armors. Making its ratio of one is to one. He was full of sweat and he changed his clothes.


    He immediately went to their home. He was immediately recognized by the maid and was opened with the gates. He went inside their mansion and met Maledic in the doorway.


    "The army was getting good at mastering your techniques. We have a total of five hundred soldiers. One hundred were at the advanced level of mastery of techniques. Two hundred were at the level of adept and the rest were all novices. The soldiers-to-be that you were training were all newbie and they were numbered a hundred.", said Maledic.


    "Thanks for your report. Prepare my bath and I want to meet Sir Vanz in the dinner.", Kael said to him briefly.


    "As you wish my lord!", Maledic said to him then immediately left.


    Kael felt tired and was exhausted. His tummy was full due to consuming five hundred potions. Luckily, the mana and health potions were easy to absorb by the body and was immediately consumed when healing wounds or replenishing mana.


    Kael went to his room and his bath was ready. He soaked himself with warm water that the maids prepared. He contemplated his future plans for the war and was in thought. He felt relaxed in the warm water and stayed there for minutes. His muscles relaxed to the warm water. His muscles were stiff due to the tiresome day and it was alleviated with its warmness.


    He clothed himself with nightwear after he washed. He opened the door and from the stairs, he saw sir Vanz in the living room. Sitting on the couch while drinking tea.


    "Sir Vanz! how were you?", Kael asked him while sliding down the stairs.


    "Lord Mael, I''m really sorry for the trouble I''ve made.", said Vanz.


    "No, no. Don''t say that! Apprehending them was the right thing to do! My soul will not rest if they were left alone to do their slavery. You''ve got my back and the king also, so don''t worry!", Kael said to him.


    "Thank you! The Golden Valley will prepare for the worst to come. The blacksmiths and metal works have doubled their manufacturing speed. Also, mining has doubled its quotas. They were taking stamina potions in place of doubling their mining work. That also means we will double their salary.", Vanz said to him briefly.


    "That''s good! They were underestimating us for giving us allowance to prepare. They have a huge army due to the fact that the lords who were members of syndicates were many. There were seven lords that have their names on the book of evidence. We will prepare for the worst.", said Kael to sir Vanz.


    "By the way. The king sends his regards to you! He also said that he will come someday here.", Kael added.


    "What!? We will prepare then!", Vanz blurted out.


    "Yeah! we will!", Kael replied to him.


    "I invite you to eat with us.", Kael said to him


    "Sure!", Vanz said to him.


    Kael went to the dining table together with him. They ate delicacies that were served in this world. From grilled chicken, pork soup to beef steak. He ate together with his mother, Vanz, and Anna. They were merry that night, not thinking about any problems they currently face.

 63 Dinner

    Kael was eating with his mother, sir Vanz and his daughter Anna. Their plates clang as they scooped for the food that they eat. They were nearing to finished eating when Erza questioned.


    "So what will you do in the future?", asked his mom Erza.


    Her question was addressed to her son Kael. Kael wiped his mouth and then replied.


    "My plan was to expand my territory. If we can survive this war, I will be lording this land properly. That''s my plan after I graduate in the Dwight Academy.", he said to her.


    "Currently, I have to establish my state while investigating the dungeons as an adventurer. When I graduate, that will be it. By the way, I''ve been recommended to the academy by the guild master.", Kael said to her.


    "Wow! That''s great! You''ve made great progress! Do you like your new face now?", she asked.


    Kael was surprised by her question.


    "Well, I planned to be the instructor of the newbie recruits in the meantime. This identity will be useful. As you can see, I can go around the capital and here in Golden Valley; not minding cute girls following me. I''m not gay! But I like to be low-key for now.", Kael said to her.


    "Hahaha!!!", Vanz laughed.


    "Quite hard to be famous! No? Being cute and handsome sometimes has pros and cons, yes?", said Vanz to Kael.


    "It was troublesome indeed! I''ve been blamed once by a teenager for stealing his girlfriend. I just talked to the girl then they broke up afterward after that. Many more were breaking up afterward and I''ve been chased by many teenagers just to punch me. It was total chaos afterward because I beat them up after that. All in all, yeah not worth it.", Kael said to Vanz.


    Hahahaha!


    "What? Did you beat them up? They have broken hearts and broken bones! What a good tandem!", Vanz said to him.


    "See? It''s not worth the hassle. But I like my face now. It was normal and I enjoyed the peace of being a normal person.", Kael replied to him.


    "See! I told you!", Sir Vanz said to him.


    "But not forever!", Kael replied to him.


    "Yeah sure! Sure! Hahahaha!", Vanz said to him.

 64 Preparation part 2

    Kael waked up early in the morning to cultivate his stats. It further increased his stats by one.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 18


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (30) +


    Dexterity (35) +


    Vitality (35) +


    Focus (86) +


    Stats points: 54


    ....


    He grabbed his adventurer card and saw the difference. He immediately washed and clothed himself with his adventurer attire. He has normal clothes that were covered with leather armor and has his robes with a hood as a cover. He equipped his sword and daggers with chains. He exits his room and Maledic was waiting for him below. His room was on the second floor and has elegant stairs to walk on. He walks to the stairs until he reached the bottom.


    "Assemble the army. We will train them early. Every day counts. We only have remaining five days to train them.", Kael said to him.


    "Yes my Lord!", said Maledic then left.


    Kael then went to their training ground and the troops were assembled. His self enchanted armors were displayed at the front of their training ground.


    Maledic assembled them in an hour. Kael then announced his speech.


    "We only have five days left! If I estimate, the enemy''s army was marching now towards the Golden Valley! I know that this will be a hard battle to face when you lack battle experience! I will not let you easily die that fast and thus I will give you my gift! Each one of you will equip my self enchanted armors. Remember that when you fight, think that your armor will help you and that I am with you while we face this war. The enemies were unknown in numbers. They may reach thousands or tens of thousands! But let us fight to the death and slaughter them all!", Kael draws his sword and shouted.


    Arrrrgggggg!!!


    The army shouted together with him.


    They didn''t waste their time and they run three laps around the town. They pushed-ups and sit-ups to build their core strength. He lets them sidesteps rapidly. Some were weary and Kael handed them stamina potions.


    He lets them spar with different variety of weapons to their limits. Kael handed them stamina potions and it was all consumed by them.


    They were steadily making progress until it was afternoon.


    "Everybody make a line!", Kael shouted to them.


    "I will give you now your armors and weapons! Line up!", Kael shouted to them.


    The army then made a line and he handed all the armors and weapons to them. They then all made phalanx formation and everyone was armed and ready.


    "Think of your armor as my blessing to all of you! Now dismissed!", Kael shouted to them.


    They left with their armor and Kael was still standing. Looking at the setting sun. Only Kael and Maledic was left on their training ground.


    "Lord Mael, was their armor enough to win the war in the coming five days?", asked Maledic worriedly.


    "It was the only thing that I can make for them. I don''t know if it was enough. For now, let''s hope that it was enough. Let''s all survive this together!", Kael said as he looked to the setting sun.


    "Yes my lord! We will!", said Maledic to comfort him.

 65 Preparation part 3

    Kael waked up in the morning and Maledic was waiting for him outside of his room.


    "Good morning! Assemble the elites and let them scout the borders. We don''t know if they will be coming earlier.", Kael said to him.


    "Yes my Lord! As you wish!", Maledic said to him.


    Kael then went walking towards the training ground. He saw that the army was carrying their armor. They immediately put off their armor beside them.


    "Attention everyone! Form yourselves!", Kael shouted.


    They were snappy to assemble themselves and it delighted Kael.


    They were formed and they were handed with different weapons in rotation. He practiced them with techniques of swords, spear, shield, chains, bow and crossbow, dagger, two-handed, and they were also taught with unarmed techniques.


    The ones with their highest mastery were assigned to the group of their weapon specialty.


    The swords users were sparring with weights in them. The spear users have heavy weights in their spears. They swing and thrusts their spears when training. The shield users were pushing heavy sleigh that has a hundred kilograms of weight that was put on top of it. The chains users were using their chains and they have weights in their arms, feet, and body. The bow users were practicing to hold three arrows between their fingers and firing them simultaneously. The crossbow users were practicing to reload fast and sniping in the distance. The dagger users all had weights and they spar and assassinate dummies. The two-handed users were lifting heavy weapons and spar with each other while having weights. They were all taught with unarmed techniques as an emergency but the most proficient were all made as a group.


    He was commanding them in the battleground to improve their mastery.


    Kael lets them consume stamina potions when they were drained.


    Erza''s tummy was getting larger as time goes by, so Kael lets Erza rest and he substitutes to act as commander.


    It was afternoon when the newbie recruits of Kael were now given with hundred sets of armor and weapons. They were now novices.


    Maledic updated Kael and he said to him, "The 200 original army were now advanced, 200 were now adept and 200 were now novice. They were steadily making progress as time goes by."


    "Good! now we''re making progress.", Kael said to him.


    Maledic then handed him the paper that has inscribed in it. Kael looked at it.


    .....


    A total of six hundred men with different specialties:


    swords¨Cfootmen


    spear¨Canti-cavalry


    shield¨Cchargers


    chains¨Cspecial


    bow¨Carchers


    crossbow¨Csnipers


    dagger¨Cassassins


    two-handed¨Cheavy soldiers


    unarmed¨Cheavy brawlers


    .....


    "The sword users have shields. The spearmen will act as the anti calvary and they also have shields. The shield users will act as chargers. The chains were special due to their short and mid-range distance of attack. The bow users were archers but the crossbow users were snipers. The dagger users will act as assassins. The two-handed users were our heavy soldiers and the un-armed were our heavy brawlers.", Maledic explained.


    "Thanks for the explanation!", Kael replied to him.


    Kael saw that they were getting good in their sparring.


    Kael lets them rest and he dismissed them. They went to their homes and Kael went home to rest.


    They were resting and on their sleep, the enemy army were coming.


    Tog! Tog! Tog!


    They marched in sync while they march. From far away, his scouts saw in the bottom of the Golden mountain¨Cthe thousands army of the enemy lords.


    "We will report this immediately", said the scout.

 66 The night scou

    Night came in the Golden Valley and the people were resting. The busy crowds on the streets were at their homes due to being cautious of enemy invasion. The guards were alert to the enemies as they patrol the town. The taverns were silent and the bards were singing melodic and sad songs as they perform. The market was silent as the night came. The people were alert to the signal of the towers that guard the Town. They were alert to enemy attacks and they were hoping that their army will protect them.


    In a silent room of Kael Mansion, the lord was busy thinking about what to do in the war. Kael was resting in his room after he washed with a hot bath. He was preparing himself for the war and he was on his top condition. He was writing to the king about the imminent war and placed the letter to the pigeon. He lets it fly after he whispered the coordinates of the king''s mansion. He was cultivating his stats and made all his stats rise by one.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 18


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (31) +


    Dexterity (36) +


    Vitality (36) +


    Focus (87) +


    Stats points: 54


    ....


    Kael was sweaty then someone knocks at the door.


    "Come in!", Kael said to the door while wiping his sweat.


    Maledic then entered the room.


    "Lord Mael, my scout has a report. I will let him speak of the details.", he said then bowed down.


    The scout then went in and he immediately reported. He kneeled to the floor.


    "I have bad news, my lord! The enemy army was at the foot of the Golden mountains and they made a camp to the bottom. They were in the north of the road towards the capital. They were numbered seven thousand strong. I hurriedly reported so you will be informed.", He said as he hides his panting due to exhaustion.


    "Thank you for the report! Maledic, assemble the army as we make a defense on the town. We were lacking in numbers but I hope that we will all survive this. Assemble the elites to scout with me.", Kael said to Maledic.


    Kael immediately changed to his adventurer gear. He wears his leather armor and robes. After he exited his room, he saw the elites assembled at the outside of the mansion. They were all grandmasters when it comes to techniques. Kael was a step lower compared to them. He was only a master, a feat only Kael can pull off despite his age.


    They went on their way and the army was patrolling the town. They made a defense at the borders. Kael''s elites have managed to become grandmasters recently, thanks to Maledic for training them. The army was ready at the west side of the town and Kael''s troops went to scouting.


    Kael as well as the elites were encompassing the night that was shined upon by the moonlight. They all run fast and Kael was as fast as them. Only Kael has that stamina to rival them. They encompass the night. Passing the trees and grasses as they dashed. They arrived at the top without making a sweat. They all saw at the bottom, all the lights emitted from their torches and campfires. They were currently resting and they were thousands. Only the lights can be seen from afar but Kael knows that they were thousands. They lighted the dark night with many lights.


    "Don''t let spies pass through, I will check them myself", Kael said to them.


    They all nodded, they were all numbered a hundred. They were the veterans of the Kael family''s army. Their sheer number was still frightening for the enemies. They were the elites of the elites. They can''t immediately become grandmasters as they were forged through fire by the past lord of Golden Valley¨CMelvin Kael.


    Kael descended the mountain alone to check the enemies. He will check them with his own eyes. The night was lit by the moon and he was alone. Kael was better to be alone as he won''t worry about them. Espionage was his forte like in the past.

 67 The night scout part 2

    Kael was descending at the mountain. By the cover of the night, he stealthily dashed in the shadows of the moonlight. He traverses the road while hidden. He runs the path downwards the mountains and felt the wind blew to his skin. The cold breeze was chilling like an air conditioner that blew in front of you. The temperature at the mountain top was cold due to its height and the wind was colliding with the mountain tops. Making its temperature drop on chilling temperature.


    He still continued to descend and the lights of torches were getting brighter. The multitude of the army was seen by his own eyes as he was getting nearer. The report was correct, they have a number of seven thousand. One thousand from each Lord. They managed to assemble their army and attack Golden Valley before the king could apprehend them. Unfortunately, they marched their army before Kael can report to the king. It was because the spy didn''t come back to them as a basis for them to attack. It was a disaster if left unseen and they were coming to the Golden Valley many days earlier.


    They were resting in their camp due to their exhaustion from marching far away from where they came. Kael scanned the camp using his binoculars. Kael saw that many were footmen, some were cavalries and they tied their horses. The footmen have shields and weapons like swords and maces. They have armors but not fully plated. They also have hundreds of archers. The spearmen were also resting. They were cooking and giving rations to the soldiers as they rest. The commanders were partying by the fire and were eating delicious foods.


    Kael then estimated that they will pass out soundly leaving guards to patrol.


    Kael immediately went back to the mountain top to regroup with the elites. He dashed towards the mountain top and has consumed ample stamina to reach the top. The travel towards the top was more stamina-consuming than going down.


    After he reached the top he called the elites. They appeared one after another from the shadows.


    "We will strike while they''re asleep to whittle down their numbers", Kael said seriously.


    "As you wish my lord!", they said.


    Kael waited for the right time to attack. They waited for them to sleep at midnight. Time passed by and they waited for hours.


    The wind blew colder as the midnight came. Kael then signaled for them to attack. They encompassed the night and they equipped their daggers. Ready to kill and whittle their numbers. Killing when they were asleep was a tad quicker than when awake. They will only open their eyes as they will try to scream but covering their mouth will do the trick.


    They fell asleep so soundly and the camp was silent. They all arrived at their tents and the guards were patrolling. They were fewer than the ones asleep. Kael hides in the dark and the other elites went on their way. They attacked first the guards by covering their mouths and slitting their throats.


    Kael then launched his sneak attack. He saw three guards as they patrol. They have a chest plate but has no armor. They were looking back and they showed their back to Kael. Just looking at them, Kael concluded that they were short on armors. He throws his daggers and it pierced two guards in their head. The other guard was shocked and he wants to alarm the others. He was about to scream when an arm emerged from the darkness and covered his mouth. A dagger slits his neck and his eyes can only show that he was surprised. The enemies were still unaware of their presence as they attacked. They all attacked in that silent night.


    Their onslaught continued. Kael went to one in their tents and killed them one by one.

 68 The night scout part 3

    They attacked the enemy''s tents and with their numbers, they made great progress on eliminating many enemies. A hundred of them can kill great numbers of enemies. Kael was with them and they attacked a hundred tents. They attacked a tent by tent and the enemies on each of the tents were ten to fifty in numbers. They managed to assassinate a hundred tents when the alarm was rung.


    Tang! Tang! Tang! Tang!


    "Retreat!", Kael shouted.


    They immediately rushed to exit their tents and Kael as well as the other elites escaped the tents. Kael exited but they were all surrounded.


    "Fight!", Kael shouted.


    They immediately executed the command. Kael draws his sword and attacked the fray to make a way for them to escape.


    Clang! Clang! Clang!


    Their swords sounded as they clashed. Kael attacked in the front and the elites attacked with him. Trying to make a way for them to escape.


    Kael then grabbed his smoke bombs and he throws it to the enemies. The bomb exploded and Kael, as well as the others, charged towards the smoky battlefield. The enemies coughed as they passed through them. Kael then cleaved the enemies, making a swirling attack towards them using his sword.


    The enemies were struck by his sword and they all were slashed. The other elites also regrouped with them. They all successfully escaped the encirclement but the enemies won''t let them escape that fast. They all mounted their horses and rides fast towards Kael''s army.


    "Don''t let them escape!", their commander shouted to his army.


    Kael was running and he instructed them to go to the west side of the town where the army was waiting. Kael then went fend off the ones who will attack them.


    The cavalry was equipped with lance and full armor. They were all riding to their mounts. The cavalries of the enemy were thoroughly equipped and were chasing them. The sound of the horses'' hooves sounded nearer and nearer. Kael as well as the others hastily dashed to the top of the mountain. They thrust their lance towards Kael but Kael parried it with his sword.


    Tang!


    Kael and the others immediately prepared to counter-attack. They equipped the weapons of their specialty.


    "Attack their horses'' feet. That will throw them over!", Kael commanded them.


    Kael slashed the horse''s feet, making the enemies thrown as their horses neighed to stand up. Their mounts were all attacked and their riders were helplessly thrown over. The elites dashed in zigzag and ducked when they were attacked with their lance. They evaded their thrust and aimed at their feet.


    Slash! Slash! Slash! Slash!


    They were all thrown over one by one. The riders were immediately attacked by the elites. One elite shield charged the enemy rider. Some were furiously slashing with his sword. Others used their chains to attack by the distance. Kael then saw that the enemy army was coming, commanded by their commander.


    "Don''t let them get away!", shouted the commander of the army.


    They charged at them and Kael then remembered the plan.


    "Go to the west side! Now!", Kael instructed them.


    They immediately dashed towards the Golden Valley. They were running the downhill of the road towards the town. Kael, as well as the others, dashed to the west side of the town. It was still night time and they saw on the west side of the town has lights. Kael instructed them to go to the west where the army was located. They saw that the lights were getting brighter and numerous. As they run, they were chased by the numerous enemies. Some were firing their arrows at them.


    Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!


    The arrows sounded as they dashed to the darkness. They were evading the arrows just by hearing the sound it was producing.


    On the west side of the town, Maledic waited to Kael. They will attack the enemies after Kael and the others were safe. The army was on edge and the newbies were nervous. They didn''t face great dangers in the past so they were a little bit nervous.


    "They were coming!", Shouted Maledic.


    "Light the arrows!", Maledic shouted at the army.


    "Three consecutive shots! Fire!", he shouted.


    They lighted the three arrows that were held by their three fingers. They immediately executed the command of their leader.


    Chuck! Chuck! Chuck!


    Three consecutive arrows were fired immediately. It all rained the night sky and the arrows passed by Kael''s team up above them.

 69 Night clash

    Arrows rained the sky and it was simultaneous. Three shots were fired one after another. Kael, as well as the others, were in awe as they looked at the sky. They dashed as the arrows passed them. Kael dashed and the others all lifted their shields to cover from the enemy''s arrows.


    Tang! Tang! Tang!


    They heard the sounds of the arrows hitting their shields. Each one of them chuckled due to the fact that the enemies will try harder to hit them.


    They saw the army was nearing and the army marched forwards towards them.


    Tug! Tug! Tug! Tug!


    They marched and Kael heard their synchronized feet. They were getting nearer and nearer to the army.


    "Cover them!", Maledic shouted.


    Immediately, the spearmen lifted their shields to cover the elites and as well as Kael. Kael and the others entered the army and they covered them. Making way while covering their heads with shields.


    "Thank goodness you''re all safe! The battle will commence immediately sooner than planned but the result will be the same! Now we need our leader to lead us!", said Maledic.


    "Okay! Listen up, everyone! You all have the potential to surpass the enemies when it comes to raw strength! Have faith in yourself! We will surpass this test! Spearmen! Remember the practice! You''re all the front force! Swordsmen! Cover the backs of the spearmen. Shielders! In case of a brawl, you all will cover each one! Use shield charge or bash! The archers and crossbowmen will attack in distance! Chains men! you will pacify anyone who dares to enter the formation! Daggers! assassinate the ones who enter our formation! Now, who''s with me!", Kael shouted.


    "Argggg!!!", they chorused.


    "Forward march!", Kael shouted.


    Tug! Tug! Tug! Tug!


    The spearmen were at the front, the swordsmen were at the sides and the shield-bearers at the back. The archers and crossbowmen were in the middle as well as the chains and daggers.


    They were marching towards the flooding enemies. In that night, the moon shone the darkness. They saw the flooding enemies and they were on edge. Everybody was hoping to survive this war as they marched. They all gulped their saliva to ease the feeling they felt.


    They were nearing the enemies and the enemies shouted and roared as they approached.


    "Everyone shout and roar!", Kael shouted.


    Arrrrggggg!!!


    They collided with the enemies. Their armors and shields banged as they clashed with the enemies. With the spearmen in the front, they were all pushed.


    "Remember the drill! Shield bash then rapid thrust!", Kael commands them.


    They initiated the command and they all bashed the enemies.


    Bang!


    They immediately thrust their spears in a rapid manner.


    Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!


    Immediately, they all killed the attackers.


    "Repeat!", Kael instructed.


    They immediately smashed their shields to the front attackers and they rapidly thrust their spears.


    The enemies still come and the archers were firing their arrows, they were being commanded by Maledic.


    "Reload! Triple shot! Fire!", Maledic shouted.


    With the help of their enchanted armors and shields, they pierced the enemy''s formation. It was a good sign for Kael as well as the others.


    They continued their onslaught towards the heart of the enemy''s forces.

 70 Night clash part 2

    They charged towards the enemy lines with great force. Piercing through the front line of the enemies. Kael was at the center of their formation. Arrows rained up above and they deflect it with their shields. With the tiring and exhausting battle, the enemies seemed to rush non stop towards them.


    Even though they have slaughtered greater numbers than their own numbers in total. They were stepping the dead bodies as they slew one after another. The night was full of blood where they step on. The weather became cloudy and the shining light of the moon has vanished. The weather has become worse as thundering clouds roared the night sky.


    While they were fighting, the rain poured and it was pitch black. The only light they have were the light of the lightning. They clashed like blind men in the darkness. Kael devised a contingency plan and Maledic released the floating lights that their Lord Mael personally invented.


    Hundreds of floating lights were floating on the battlefield. It illuminated them as well as the enemies. It will lead to them being in the spotlight not knowing where the enemy was. But it was their only option for now. The army felt calmer in the midst of the storm. The rain poured heavier as they clashed with the enemies.


    They saw arrows in the sky when it thunders. Arrows rained towards them. Kael saw it and he yelled,


    "Shields up!"


    The army then lifted their shields.


    Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang!


    Tugug!


    Roared the thunder as it produced flickering light in the night sky.


    Kael shouted to the army to ease their feeling. Being in that situation was really fear-inducing. The soldiers were on edge and their leader was their source of hope for the battle.


    "Don''t lose hope! We will win this fight! Believe in yourselves!", he shouted to them.


    The floating lights were very helpful. They saw the faces of their enemy by the coverage of the light. The army''s morale has risen greatly. They have a dependable leader and a great instructor. With the help of the floating lanterns, their morale was doubled.


    The spearmen in the front were still bashing and rapidly thrusts the enemies. Their enemies that have fallen from their attacks were the ones they were stepping on. They were surrounded by the enemies to the sides and as well as in the back. The shielders were bashing them, making their enemies thrown a bit.


    Their formation was still not breeched and even with the help of their armors, they still felt exhausted. Continuing it until the morning was really tiresome.


    The shielders were pushing the enemies that were charging at them. Even they were not giving great damage, they can stun the enemy and deal with small blunt damage. The swordsmen in the sides were slashing and thrusting their swords to the enemies. The archers were blinded but they all fired when they saw the enemies when the lightning lighted up the skies.


    "Three consecutive shots! Fire!", shouted Maledic.


    The fight lasted for hours and the slow stamina regeneration can''t keep up with their exhausted body. They were on the verge of giving up.


    The enemies rushed and they were at the center of the fray. All enemies were surrounding them. The spearmen were on the verge of collapsing their formation.


    "Hold the line!", shouted Kael.


    The enemies then breeched the spearmen''s frontal formation. The daggers and the chains immediately rushed to the enemies. Executing the ones who dared to enter their formation. The formation was down and it was a brawl that happened.


    "Shielders! Cover the ones who will be attacked!", Kael shouted.


    Immediately, they heard his command.


    The enemy wants to slash the one who uses daggers but he was shield charged by the shielders. It was utter chaos but they were covering each other''s backs. Leaving no one injured. Kael was also using his daggers and he assassinates enemies who were showing their back to him. He thrusts his dagger in their necks and he was immediately covered by shielders when someone attacks him.


    "Thanks! But it was unneeded!", He said to them.


    They replied with a nod and proceeded to protect others.


    The swordmen were butchering the enemies. Slaying them was just like easier than confronting Maledic. They were forged with the best materials and they were the ones who were the result. The daggers men were digging their thrusts to the enemy''s armors. The enemy attacks barely even made a scratch to their armor. They were cautious not to make a scratch to their considered a family heirloom''s armor set and weapons.


    They clashed with the enemies that night until their last ounce of strength. The enemy''s commanders were atop the hill of Golden mountain. Watching from the top, they saw that their enemies were not even annihilated by a single one.


    "What''s wrong with this army!? You can''t even annihilate a few hundred enemies?", he said to the cavalry unit.


    They saw that the enemies were still alive and standing.

 71 Until dawn

    They clashed with the enemies in the dark night. Only being lighted with the floating lanterns. The night grows deeper and the army was like at the center of the storm. Being attacked in all directions. They still managed not to be slain by a single digit. Kael was busily commanding the troops he has and all were on high morale and their adrenaline rushed while battling the enemies. They managed to go through enemy lines. A feat of his troops that was worth mentioning. There were newbies but they act like veterans in the war. Just like they say in the saying, "Be cautious of a cornered rat. For you don''t know what will it do to survive."


    Tugug!


    Another lightning lighted up the sky. They immediately saw the flooding enemies in all directions. The storm was not even helping. The rainfall became heavier than before. They were beginning to panic. The enemies were greater than their numbers. They were outnumbered even though Kael, as well as the elites, whittled their numbers. The enemies were even not fearing them and encamped to the foot of the Golden Mountains. The place was very near to their enemies. Being confident in their numbers was what they felt.


    "Don''t lose hope! We will surpass the enemies!", Kael shouted.


    The spearmen immediately closed their formation, not making enemies pass through. The two-handers substituted with the rear guard shielders, butchering and smashing the enemies on the rear. The backs of the two-handers were covered with the shielders. Not anyone will pass through them that easily. All of them were covered with full plated armors and they were domineering the enemies when it comes to raw strength. The daggers men were inside and were waiting for anyone to get inside. The chains men were itching their hands to punch the enemies and slash them. But the spearmen regained their formation.


    They have a rectangular formation that has the spearmen in the front, swordsmen were at the sides and the two-handers on the bottom which were covered with shielders. The archers, crossbowmen, and daggers were at the middle as well as the chains, and brawlers were at the backs of the spearmen. All were on edge while there was a storm.


    Kael never ended his cheering upon the troops. He shouted with all his might to cheer them up.


    "Fight till death! Fight like never before!", he shouted.


    The enemies were piling and piling as they slaughtered them. The spearmen were enough to kill their footmen. It was a slaughter that their enemy commander has never seen before.


    "What''s wrong with killing a few hundred enemies!", He said to his aide.


    "Sir, I think their armors were enchanted! Considering your men to fall back for now or you will suffer great losses.", his aide advised him.


    "Fall back!", He shouted.


    They immediately blow the horn to fall back.


    Torrrrrrrtttttttt!!!


    The paused their attack and they fall back.


    The soldiers of Kael shouted with joy. All lifted their arms up in the sky.


    Arrrrrggggg!!!


    Kael shouted too. They saw the sky was pierced with light and the sun rose. They managed to survive unscathed. Leaving the bodies of the enemies, they roared while facing the sun.

 72 Aftermath

    Kael shouted as a result of his troop''s victory. With the help of everyone, they managed to pull it off even with lower numbers. All thanks to Kael''s work, they were unscathed.


    "This armor and weapons will be my family''s heirloom from this day forth! shouted one of his soldiers.


    Everyone chuckled and laughed with his comment. Kael was also one of them.


    "This is a great day to celebrate soldiers! But we have work to do. We will burn the corpses first to prevent a plague to scatter. Finish off the ones who pretend to be dead. Now move!", Kael commanded.


    They moved like there was no war that has happened. Thanks to slow stamina regeneration, they regained their stamina in just minutes. They were now officially the foundation of Kael''s army. Their numbers were no joke if their prowess were measured.


    They managed to pile them up and they lighted it up with fire using woods as the fuel. They saw smoke that rises to the sky. Kael as well as the other elites patrolled the mountain top of Golden Valley. Looking at the enemy camp with the telescope Kael has. They were heavily injured and the ones remained were the ones whom they didn''t clash yet. They were lucky not to clash with them yet and it was the reason they survived.


    Kael counted them from watching from afar using his telescope and the remaining numbers of enemies were three thousand. Killing four thousand in one night with their sheer numbers was a great feat for them.


    "Patrol the borders, for now, I really need to check my home this instant. Report to me if there were movements", Kael said to them.


    The elites nodded to him as a reply. They were equipping full plated armor with cloak at their backs. A sight to behold and a proper armor for his so-called elites.


    Kael dashed towards his home. Running fast and steady. This routine will also give him one point to vitality. Making it rose by one.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 18


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (31) +


    Dexterity (36) +


    Vitality (37) +


    Focus (87) +


    Stats points: 54


    ....


    Kael was sweaty to the process. His vitality was higher than before.


    The mansion was located at the upper hill of Kael estate. It was a vast land that his forefathers have received. He arrived at the gate and Maledic was just outside the mansion. It seemed he waited for his arrival in their estate.


    "I''m sorry for leaving you there. I hurriedly went home to make sure it was safe.", Maledic said to him.


    "It''s okay, at least prepare a meal for the soldiers while they guard the town. It was thanks for their efforts that Golden Valley survived.", Kael said to him.


    "Also prepare my bath, I was drenched in sweat.", he said to Maledic.


    "As you wish my lord!", he said to Kael while bowing down.


    Maledic immediately left and then he executed the command of his precious lord. Kael went to his room and he removes his clothes. The bath was served when he arrived. He dips his tired body to warm water and stretched his weary legs and arms. Kael was not using any enchantments in his armor or robes. He takes pride in his own experience in confronting enemies. Only when it was dire when he will use his enchantments or in emergencies like the war he has faced.


    Kael ate with his mother on their table. Kael was eating chunks of roasted chicken when he was chatted with his mother.


    "I''m so sorry son if I can''t be with you on the battlefield. My tummy was getting bigger by the day and it hinders my movements. Be always careful, don''t go in the frontline and just command in the center okay? By the way, your name was being sung by the bards in the taverns. Of the great victory of Commander Kael of Golden Valley. Aren''t you happy?", she said then smiled.


    "Fame was all a vanity mom, like a flower that withers after it bloomed.", Kael said to him.


    "My son was wise and poetic! Where did you read that?", she said to him while slicing another chunk of meat.


    "Not important! I will immediately check my army. I better go now!", he said to her.


    "Bye mom!", he said to her then left.


    "Wait!", she shouted to him.


    "What was it?", he replied as he turned around looking at her.


    Erza wiped his sweat and his mouth. She then said to him.


    "Take care of yourself. I can''t imagine how you will become in the future without your mother taking care of you.", she said to him while wiping.


    "Thanks mom! I will leave now!", he smiled and left.


    While walking in the west, where the army was located. He saw from afar that the enemies were coming downhill the Golden mountain located in the north. Kael''s heart raced as he didn''t predict that they will attack so soon.

 73 Saved

    Kael panicked as he saw that the enemies arrived and he was not there to lead them. All was a brawl, they didn''t have formations yet. He rushed towards the battlefield and saw his soldiers were attacked. Kael jumped to the fray and immediately leads them.


    "Everyone regroup! Spearmen make a phalanx! Swordsmen! Make a circular formation in beside spearmen! Two handers! Make a way for us to go through! Daggers! Chains and Brawlers! Come with me!", He said to them.


    Immediately, the two-handers swings left and right their heavy weapons. Making the enemies thrown by the impact. Kael charges as the two-handers executed his command.


    At the top of the mountain, there stood the enemy commander. Telescoping the war that unfolds in his eyes.


    "They were coming for me! Great! Let us see what you''ve got. Cavalry! Charge with me towards the enemies! Hiya!", he said to his cavalry troops. He whips his horse to make it dash the downhill off the mountain.


    Tugutog! Tugutog! Tugutog!


    The sound of their hooves sounded by the distance as Kael was charging towards them.


    The two-handers were smashing their heavy weapons and they formed a wedge formation. In their backs were Kael and the Daggers men, as well as the chains and brawlers. They pierced through the enemy lines with the help of the jump start of the two-handers. The enemies were struck with fear and was getting back to evade their strikes. Kael has succeeded in getting out of the enemy lines. They saw that the enemy commander was charging with his cavalry behind him.


    "Two handers! Regroup with the spearmen and swordsmen. Go!", he commanded.


    Kael dashed together with his forces. Eliminating the commander was his purpose and they were attacked with their archers.


    Arrows rained at their heads and Kael was evading them. His troop''s armors were not pierced by their arrows. Instead, it only bounced as it hits their armor.


    "Charge!", Kael shouted to them.


    They charge to the enemies and Kael jumped at his enemy. The Daggers men jumped to attack the cavalrymen of the enemy. The chains men jumped and released their chains. They handed their chains to the others and they grabbed the tip. They jumped and when the cavalry passed them, they were hit with the chains. Making them fall from their horses. The brawlers attacked with their armored fists. Punching them who fell from their horses.


    While they were fighting, A loud sound of the horn that was coming from the mountain top has been heard, ally and enemy alike. They have the flag of yellow Eagle in a blue flag. Resembling of the Dwight army itself.


    "The king''s forces have arrived!", shouted Kael''s army.

 74 Gues

    "The king has arrived!", shouted his soldiers.


    Torroooooootttttttt!


    A loud horn enveloped the Golden Valley. Even the townspeople heard it even they were hiding in their homes. From the birds of the sky to the animals of the land. All heard it.


    Kael was looking up high on the mountain top and the King''s troops arrived. They were also numbered thousands.


    The enemies trembled to the great numbers who emerged at the mountain top.


    "Charge!", the enemy commander shouted as he commands his army to attack the King''s troops. They left alone the soldiers of Kael''s household and attacked the king''s troops.


    They clashed with the Dwight army. For Kael, it was a checkmate. The enemy was cornered and they were fighting for their last breath. The King''s forces descended in the mountains and the rebels were charging upwards towards them.


    "What were you waiting for!? Charge!", Kael shouted them.


    With the King''s troops on the top and Kael''s Army on the bottom. They were squashed in between. They crashed with each other and some were thrown flying towards their enemies.


    The sound of clanging metal echoed in the mountains. Mixed with their agony and some were shrieking from the pain of their wounds.


    It was a one-sided slaughter. The enemies were even desperate to win from Kael''s troops, how much more with the king''s troops. It was pitiful and being merciful on the battlefield was not an option. It was a rule that can''t be broken.


    Every enemy was slaughtered and the soldiers hailed the king for his help. They made a victory shout to them.


    "Men! Burn the corpses!", Kael commanded.


    The king approached Kael while riding his steed. The king unmounts his noble steed and he congratulated Kael.


    "Congratulations for the Victory! I thought you were just a messenger of Kael''s household. To think you were the commander itself!", The king chuckled.


    "Your majesty! I didn''t intend to fool you. I was just a substitute to the lady Erza herself due to being pregnant.", Kael said while kneeling.


    "But still! You''re their commander! I need to see Lady Erza and the new lord! We will go to Kael estate and celebrate this victory! Now, who''s with me!", said the king as he lifted his hands in the sky.


    Arggggggg!!!


    The soldiers all shouted with him.


    Everyone chuckled to his speech.


    Kael then said to Maledic to make a celebration for the king. Maledic immediately left to prepare for a celebration.


    Kael escorted the king as they marched towards his mansion for the celebration.

 75 Guest part 2

    Kael escorted the army of the king and Kael was riding on the horse together with the king himself. Talking to him while they were coming home for the celebration. Maledic was hastily preparing the hall to make the ceremony. In the meantime, Kael was talking to the king while riding the provided horse to him.


    "So you were the commander of the Kael household! How did you survive their onslaught with your numbers?", asked the king in curiosity.


    "That my king was due to the training they faced. The training of Kael household itself! I didn''t know it was that effective to the combatants'' prowess. Making them slaughter enemies while unscathed. Taking pride of Lord Melvin''s own training on me.", Kael said to the king.


    "So that explains it! But I didn''t know that it was that effective! Can I get you to train my army as one of the commanders?", the king politely asked.


    "I''m so sorry my king! My lord''s security was my priority before my promotion! I''m really honored for your offer but my loyalty to Kael household were serving them in a lifetime.", Kael said to the king.


    "That was saddening!", the king said.


    His escorts were the commanders of Dwight''s forces. They escorted the king to ensure his safety. They were armed with the greatest weapons and armors the kingdom has. That included the armor of the king.


    They arrived at the Kael estate and the head butler and the head maid were at the gate. They greeted the king with congratulations.


    "We congratulate the king for the victory of war! As the head butler of the Kael estate, we prepared the halls for the party. This way please!", said Maledic to the king.


    "Commanders follow me! The army will guard the vicinity.", the king said to the commanders.


    "Don''t worry! All the armies will be fed. They can guard while they eat outside!", Kael said to the king.


    "That would be great!", the king said to him.


    Luckily, Kael commanded Maledic to prepare food beforehand. It was just a coincidence that the king arrived.


    They walked inside the mansion and the maids all lined up. The head maid escorted them to the Meeting Hall.


    Totorotot!


    "The King has arrived!", exclaimed to the trumpeter.


    They immediately began the party.


    Kael requested the presence of sir Vanz to talk to the king. Immediately, sir Vanz arrived.


    Kael then talked to the king with a greeting. The king was happy that his mission was executed perfectly.


    "So you want to go back as my right hand?", the king asked Vanz.


    "I''m sorry for my rudeness but my king! I''m indebted to serve Mael''s mansion with my life. It was basically thanks to him that I and my daughter Anna was still breathing.", Vanz said to him.


    "Oh, that''s sad! But where was Lord Mael! I want to see him!", the king talked.


    Kael was surprised and he immediately excused himself and Vanz.


    They walked to his room and hastily said to Vanz to change his face.


    "Vanz! Hurry! Change my face!", Kael said in panic.


    "Yes! Alright! Alright! Just stand straight!", Vanz said while hurrying to cast his spell.


    [Face change]!


    He changed his face and Kael''s face glowed. Getting his face back was very rewarding for him. The cute and handsome Lord Mael.

 76 Guest part 3

    Mael has regained his face and as well his name. Mael excitedly went to the party with sir Vanz. He walks towards the Meeting hall. He opened the door and everyone looked at his direction.


    "The hero of Golden Valley! Lord Mael Kael!", announced Sir Vanz.


    He was wearing the same suite as Kael but more handsome and cute. The king immediately approached him and he grabbed a wine in a glass.


    The king lifted his glass of wine then made his speech.


    "To the brave hero of Golden Valley! Son of Melvin Kael and Erza Kael! To the victory of war! And for the kingdom''s prosperity! Cheers!"


    The guests grabbed their glasses and made a cheers. Kael also was handed a glass of wine by sir Vanz.


    "Cheers!", Kael shouted.


    "Cheers!", they all chorused


    Mael immediately walked towards the king and greeted him.


    "I am pleased to meet you my king!", Mael bowed down and on his knees.


    "At ease!", the king replied.


    "I congratulate you on winning the war against the seven lords. Their families will be degraded as commoners and their noble status will be lifted. You will be a baron now as my gift to you.", the king said to him.


    "Thank you your majesty! Can I ask a favor to know what was the mission of my father was on?", Kael requested to the king.


    For him, it was the greatest question in his mind. Making his father go was really hard when it comes to his mother Erza. If he can know it, then his doubts will be cleared.


    "Let''s talk to somewhere private. It was confidential.", the king said.


    Mael guided the king towards their secret meeting room together with the commanders.


    The room was sound-proof and Mael sits to the couch together with Vanz and other commanders.


    "It was a secret mission. Your father was needed to train the army. For now, he was healthy and was training the army. I can''t tell you everything for now but have faith in me. The army was preparing for a war and we will win. That''s the information for now and I can''t tell it to you above that. This information would bring panic if it will spread. Knowing this won''t help your current situation. ", the king said to him.


    "That''s fine my king! Knowing that my father was alive eased my feelings. I won''t ask further than that.", Mael said to him.


    "Well we''ve won against the other lords and for now I will prepare for a journey. Don''t worry! I will tell your father that you were a great lord and you''ve become a baron now!", the king said.


    "Thank you! Your majesty!", Mael said to the king.


    "The seven lords'' people will migrate to your land due to your low taxes. Better prepare for that. I will make a letter for them to go to the Golden Valley.", the king said to him.


    "I will prepare your majesty!", Kael said to him.


    "That''s all for now! I will still prepare for war now. I''m sorry if our talk was cut short. I will go now. Men! Let''s go!", the king said to the commanders.


    They left the room and the king mounts his noble steed. Mael was watching them as well as Vanz.


    "We will meet again!", the king shouted.


    The army of Dwight immediately marched as they left.


    Mael waved goodbye to the king. It was a nice experience for him that he met the king.


    "He was a nice person!", Vanz said to Mael.


    "Yeah!", Mael replied.

 78 Attack

    The sun rose in the mountain top of Golden Valley. It pierced the land with its rays that brightly lit the town. The roosters sounded their sound at the top of the houses and the people were all waking up. The blacksmiths waked up early to make weapons and armors. The bakers baked and the merchants installed their stalls. In the past month, the migrators have successfully lived in comfort in their newly built houses. It was made of wood and was built just for them. Kael waked up early and he was excited to train the new recruits of the army. With Vanz on his side, he can focus on training the army as their commander. Vanz was the one who manages the realm. With Kael''s new position as a baron, he has larger people that he rules. It was a blessing in disguise for him. Kael exited his room and he was surprised that Maledic was just outside.


    "Good morning Maledic! Assemble the army and we will train them again this morning. Let the elites assist me in training them.", Kael said to him while on his adventurer attire.


    "As you wish Baron Mael!", Maledic immediately left.


    It was a morning routine for Maledic to wait in the doorway his Lord every morning. He was waiting for his master''s instructions before leaving.


    Kael went to their training grounds while walking. Seeing people greeted him by the way was very refreshing to him. He arrived without problems for he was the feared commander itself.


    He arrived at the training grounds and the army assembled themselves. With the migration of the migrators, his army was now numbered two thousand strong. He trained them in the past month until the present. With the help of the elites, his training regime was passed on to them. Kael trained them to his heart''s content. They have improved drastically and they were different from their past''s selves.


    Meanwhile, the walls were successfully built in a month with the help of great numbers of laborers. With the mining of gold has been tripled in its production speed, they can pay the people and still has more to save.


    They successfully made three ships in just a month. With the new recruits, they made a good naval army.


    Iron production was a success. Thus the blacksmiths have iron to make steel. Making weapons and armors was tripled and it was enchanted by Kael himself. Training the army in the day and enchanting in the night.


    The army was fully armed with weapons and armors. It was a great sight to behold when you see the vast army with a full set of armors lined up in their formations.


    The walls were built with many large crossbows in the towers. As a contingency to large opponents. Archers were patrolling by the walls and catapults were under construction.


    They were training under the sun when a loud roar reverberated the Golden Valley. The army halted their training when they heard it.


    "Did you heard that!?", shouted one of his men.


    In the walls located at the Golden Mountains was the guards saw a flying beast that was coming towards them. They used their telescope to see what was it. It was a figure of a snake on its head, a bat wings, and a foot of a lizard. It has scaly skin with leathery wings.


    "A dragon!", shouted the guard.


    "Hurry! The alarm!", their leader said.


    They battered the bell to alarm the people. It sounded and it was heard by everyone.


    By the distance, the dragon was approaching.


    "Hurry! load the large crossbow!", shouted their leader.


    They aimed at the dragon and fired it.


    Chug!


    The Large bolt was fired and it hits the dragon on its chest. Its scales were pierced but the flesh was undamaged.


    "Reload!", their captain shouted.


    They immediately lifted the large bolt but the dragon breathes fire at them.

 79 Dragon attack

    Kael was perplexed as he heard its roar. The tower of Golden Mountain located in the west was attacked. They can see from the training ground the flying beast that breaths fire. It has black scales like a black dragon.


    "An evil black dragon!", shouted one of his men.


    Kael saw it and it was his first time seeing a dragon in real life. It was a majestic creature where he reads in his books. Kael immediately announced to the army to arm themselves.


    "Men! put on your armors and weapons! We will attack that beast!", he shouted.


    Immediately, they equipped their own armors and weapons that Kael himself has enchanted. It has [Resist elements] on it thus Kael was confident that the fire damage will be lessened. Kael assembled the army and made a strategy. Luring the dragon will be a tricky one. It has intelligence that of an ancient beast. Having its own ego and pride as a superior beast compared to humans.


    The dragon went towards the town. Breathing fire as he dived down. It landed on one of the buildings and roared.


    Kael instructed the daggers to attack the dragon while it was on a building. They immediately hopped building to building. Having enchanted with [Increased strength] has made them superior. They jumped one of the buildings and was nearing to clash with the dragon.


    Kael was instructing them while jumping.


    "Lure him and go to the west side. Making his rampage in the town will be costly to repair. Go!", Kael said to them.


    They jumped as they attacked the dragon. They pierced his thick hide and ripping open a wound on its skin. The dragon bellowed and thrashed all over to shake them off. The daggers men were hundreds in number and they inflicted damage to the black dragon. It was still young and its scales were hard but their daggers were enchanted with [Corrosion damage] and [Piercing damage].


    They immediately escaped and went to the west side of the town. The aggro of the dragon was directed towards them. Luring it was a success and it was following them. It breathes fire at them and they were emerging from its fire breath unscathed. The dragon was annoyed due to his attacks were ineffective. They parkour in the buildings as they were attacked with the scorching breath of the dragon.


    They successfully arrived at the west side of the town and the army was waiting there.


    Maledic was commanding them and was ready for an attack.


    "Archers and crossbows! Fire!", Maledic commanded.


    "Spearmen! Throw the javelins to the dragon!", He said to the spearmen.


    They attacked with everything they got. The arrows and bolt were aimed at him and they rained the sky. Even the javelins flew towards him. The arrows pierced his skin and were coated with poison. The javelins dealt great damage to him due to the numerous numbers of it that pierced its skin. The dragon roared and breathed fire at them. They were all bathed in his fire breath and was unscathed. They can only feel that their armors were heating but it cooled immediately. Their barrage of attacks didn''t stop and the dragon retreated to the sky.


    After he retreated, a bright light appeared in the sky. It was a figure of a shining armored individual with wings of an eagle.

 80 The battle

    The silhouette of the person up above was being looked upon by them as light radiated from him. The dragon bellowed as he sees him being higher than him. The dragon breathes his fire towards him and he was unscathed by his breath. The angel immediately gathers his divine mana and made a big lance that was larger than him. A twenty-meters-long lance of light was produced.


    [Light javelin]!


    The angel shouted as he throws the javelin of light towards the dragon. Kael was amazed by the greatness of the divine being he has seen. In the past, he remembered that divine beings like angels and fallen were the peak existence of the world of Lumia. They rival the greatest monsters called dragons. Sadly, the dragon was still young and was far from the prowess of his enemy¨Cthe angel itself.


    The light pierced through the thick hide of the dragon.


    Roar!!!


    The dragon bellowed and it crashed on the battlefield. The army cheered for their victory and they liberated the dragon successfully.


    The angel descended from the sky and they saw his radiating white light. He has a gold plated armor that was shining its radiance. They made way for him as he walks towards Kael himself.


    "Can I talk to you in secret?", the divine being said to Kael.


    "Were you talking to me?", Kael was surprised that he was the intent of his coming.


    "Yes! I have a message for you and I need to have a chat with you in secret.", he said to him.


    "Yes! Yes! Of course, it has to be secret! Let''s go to the basement!", Kael said to him.


    "Okay!", he said then the angel clapped.


    In just a twinkling of an eye, he appeared immediately in their basement.


    "What!? Where were we?", Kael was perplexed. Thinking of this, Kael immediately looking left and right.


    "We''re in your basement! Now let me be on point. I will give you a system called the imitator system. Seven of you will be handed with a system. All of you were tasked to fight the Arch Fallen that was gathering his army. One of them was the evil dragons and monsters. The rift was opened from the ''other world'' and your world was in danger. It was their world that has opened to the world of Lumia. Even with the help of angels your world was still in danger. You can get back to earth if you''ve accomplished the task and as a reward of defeating the enemy. You can have a wish.", the angel said to him.


    "Wow! that''s was shocking! Now I know why I was reincarnated here.", he said to the angel.


    "Let me give you the system this instant!", the angel said to him.


    Immediately, a great white light emerged from his hands and he gave it to Kael. It subsided in his hands and in an instant. He saw letters in his eyes.


    [System activating!]


    [Integrating to the host]


    [Integrating complete!]


    [You can imitate every job class you like. As the holder of this system, you can also imitate their skills.]


    "Wow! I can imitate others?", he exclaimed.


    "That was the gift for you from the creator. He was happy to lend it to you but you have to defeat the arch fallen. Find the others and help one another.", the angel said to him.


    After they talked, Kael and the angel emerged from the basement.


    "We have an incoming enemy.", the angel said to him.


    Immediately they went outside. Kael dashed and the angel was immediately on the outside.


    "A Fallen.", the angel said to Kael.


    "Were you the ones who killed my precious pet!? I will kill you all!", the fallen blurted out.

 81 Fallen

    A Fallen appeared and their talk was halted. Kael was given a system and a clue to get back to earth. He also knew that there were seven of them. In the sky, the Fallen was deeply agitated due to the death of his beloved pet dragon. He commanded him to attack a nearby town and sadly, he didn''t come back anymore. It was due to the fact that he was killed by their mortal enemy called angels.


    "What have you done to my precious pet!? I will kill who killed him.", the fallen said while being infuriated. His blood boils and his emotions were about to burst.


    "It was me who killed him! Don''t put your anger to the humans for they were innocent. I am angel Michael, a messenger of the creator himself.", the angel said to him.


    "Curse you!", he blurted out and gathers his energy.


    "I will eradicate you as well as this town until no one will be left.", the fallen said.


    The angel then flew and his wings flapped with strength behind it. Air gushed out and Kael was blown by its wind. They immediately battled together in the sky.


    [Light javelin]!


    The angel gathered his powerful lance and the fallen also gathered his energy.


    [Black energy orb]


    They cast their skills and throws them with each other.


    Bang!


    Loud sounds emitted from each other. Kael was looking at them from the ground and was in awe. They battled with great prowess in the sky. Kael was looking at them and has an idea that has burst out of his mind.


    "System! Imitate the angel''s job class", he said to the system.


    Immediately, the system responded.


    [Divinity class copied]


    [Due to lack of character level, the Divinity class was temporarily locked]


    [Character needs to be level 1000 above to unlock Divinity class]


    "Thanks system! What was the other Systems called?", Kael asked.


    [This was the list of systems ranked from top to bottom]


    [1. Inheritance (passed down) - given all divine power for the inheritor when in deathbed/not in deathbed of a divine individual]


    [2. Growth (double xp) - xp increase only on character level.]


    [3. Power (boost) - transformations or boost beyond the limit.]


    [4. Depriver (skill taker) - steals or seals skills below his level]


    [5. Observer (imitator) - imitating skills on the recent person that is touched or observed.]


    [6. Talent (passive mastery) - can gain inborn abilities at the moment of receiving the system. His system is only focused on passive]


    [7. versatile (all-around) - slow but balanced growth of job class level but can only equip one at a time. Assists on learning any job class level and skills]


    [That''s all of the systems, as you can see. You were handed with imitator system due to your talent to copy others]


    "Woah that was awesome!", Kael exclaimed.


    The battle was still raging and the angel made thousands of [Light javelin]. He created them and commanded the javelins to attack the fallen. The fallen, on the contrary, was making a big black energy ball on the sky.


    They attacked each other and Kael saw that the fight was getting fiercer. They clashed their skills and the sky blasted and burned as their skills clashed with each other.


    The angel didn''t stop making another thousand [Light javelin] and blasted the fallen.


    Roar!!!


    The fallen roared in the sky and he fell from the sky.


    "Damn you!", he shouted to the angel.


    "I will come back with my army! Remember that!", he said to him and Kael.


    The fallen retreated and said that he will come back with his army. Kael will prepare for the worst. The angel also went down and he landed on the ground.


    "I will go back to the Heavenly realm and report to the creator of a mission accomplish. Sadly, you were on your own from this day onwards. It was not recommended to mingle with humans and save them always. You must stand on yourselves but only in dire situations only when we will help. We will meet again young one and the system holder. Gather the system holders and fight the darkness. You will find then the end of the tunnel.", the angel said then he went to the skies. The skies opened up and bright light emitted from the inside.


    "Thanks!", Kael said to him.


    The rift vanished and Kael has to prepare for the worst. The enemy will come and he was on his own.

 82 Preparation part 4

    The fallen said that he will attack golden Valley with his monsters. With ample preparation, Kael can surpass the siege of the enemy. He will have to prepare for the worst when the enemies will arrive. His army were enchanted with great enchantments and they have a great training regimen that was formulated by Maledic and Kael combined. It helped them to survive the catastrophic event caused by the dragon.


    The golden Valley was on the process of repairing the damages caused by the winged creature. Due to them luring it to the west side of town, the damage caused was minimal. Kael built new large crossbows at the towers and catapults. Assigning more troops to the walls was a great idea he felt. The crops were beginning to bear fruits and the season was on spring. The people were content of his ruling and they were happy. His preserved products was being delivered all throughout the continent. Making name on the world of Lumia while selling his products. The people were healthier due to the well-being they were possessing.


    The army were now two thousand strong. They have five hundred adept, five hundred on elite, five hundred on veteran, and five hundred on novice. All comprising of new and old soldiers. Kael was happy to enchant their armors and new recruit apply for the army. It was a busy week for Kael.


    He was training them when the alarm of distress signal was rung from the towers.


    "Arm yourselves! Put on your shield and armors!", Kael shouted.


    Meanwhile, on the tower located at the south. There were monsters moving in their direction. All were numbered a few thousands. Kael immediately equipped his sword and the army marched towards the south border. They marched and the archers at the walls were igniting their arrows then fires them to the monsters. Kael went upstairs of the tower and looked at his telescope. Three thousand enemies were seen. The monsters were mix of wolves, ghouls, flying manticores and orcs. They were marching towards them and some were flying. Kael redied the troops at the top of the walls and he commanded the archers to fire their arrows.


    "Fire!", he signalled them to attack.


    The army then opened the gate towards the south and they made their formation. It was a grassy plains that they will battle on.

 83 Clash

    The battleground was the grassy plains of the south border of the Golden Valley. Kael stationed his army outside the walls. He thought that it will be good to switch to offense first in the meantime. The spearmen were just outside the walls together with the swordsmen. The archers and crossbowmen were on the walls. The wind blew and the breeze of the air was cool. It made the grasses sound as the air touched their leaves. The army was positioned and all was set.


    The enemies marched towards them. The manticores flew in the sky and dived towards them and the archers fired their arrows together with the bolts of the crossbowmen.


    Their arrows and bolts hit the flying enemies but they still continued diving. They also evaded as the dying enemies dive towards them.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Few manticores were dead as they fell from the sky but some crashed to the other soldiers. Making them being crushed by their bodies. The enemies were approaching and the spearmen at the bottom were preparing for the clash they await. While the soldiers were at the bottom, the archers were brawling with the manticores at the top of the wall. They switch to their swords and slashed the manticores while on the walls.


    The ghouls were fast approaching together with the wolves. As they saw them, it was not ordinary wolves and ghouls but were mutated ones. Kael observed from afar and saw their enemies were magically enhanced with the power of the fallen. In the sky, the fallen were grinning his mouth.


    "Hahahahaha! Taste your death with my army! Buwahahaha!", he said while laughing.


    The wolves were larger than ordinary, far from their original size. It was six feet tall when they were standing. The ghouls were also bigger than ordinary ones compared to the ones in the dungeon whom Kael has explored and met. They dashed towards them and they crashed their bodies at the spearmen. The spearmen thrust their spears towards them but some were agile enough to evade their strikes. Their formation was crushed as several other six feet wolves pierced their way through in their formation.


    "Encircle them and make another front line defense!", Kael instructed.


    Immediately, they heard his command. They encircled the ones who pierced their formation and thrusts their spears. Making wolves shrieked from the pain. They didn''t felt pity to kill them nor they like to kill. It was only normal to kill monsters. It''s kill or be killed in this world and it was an absolute to obey their commander''s command.


    They thrust the wolves and they immediately killed them. The ghouls arrived in their formation and the spearmen also lifted their shields. They held their shields with greater force and they were preparing for worse. The ghouls jumped towards them.


    "Thrust them!", Kael shouted.


    Immediately, they thrust their spears towards the ghouls.


    Pshiek!


    The spears pierced through their thick hides and they rapidly thrust the enemy. Making them skewered by their spears. They were slaughtered and their regeneration can''t keep up the damaged they get.


    They were obliterated and the orcs were coming towards them.


    The archers were brawling with the manticores. They were slashing the enemy. The enemy has a body of a lion, a tail of a scorpion, and the wings of an eagle. It was called the manticore. The enemy was resilient and they have large bodies. Some were smashed by its paws and they were thrown from the wall. They encircled them and they thrust them with their swords. Making attacks while retreating from their enemy. They altogether attacked but they flew towards the sky. They want to fly but it was already too late because the chains men shackled them with their chains and pulled them towards the ground. They thrashed all over to let them go but the daggers men also jumped to their backs; slicing their wings off. They were butchered by the two-handers on the process.


    After they eliminated the manticores, the melee soldiers on the walls attacked together with the spearmen and swordsmen. It was the orcs that they will attack.


    The orcs launched their attack and they brandished their weapons. The orcs rammed their weapons to the shields of the spearmen. The orcs were naturally stronger than humans, the barbarians were their rivals when it comes to strength. But due to their armors that was enchanted, they can rival them and be toe to toe with them.


    It was a brawl that happened. The spearmen bashed them with their shields and they were stunned a bit. Immediately, they thrusts their spears. The swordsmen also clashed with them and was using techniques to fend them off. They were thousand in numbers but Kael''s troops were also thousands.


    The fallen felt irritated but he calmed himself. Due to the fact that he was strong that he will obliterate them with his own power.


    Kael was watching and saw that the enemy was strong enough to beat them. It was by the mercy of the enemy that they were still living.

 84 Clash part 2

    The wind blew harder and they didn''t mind it for they were clashing with the enemy. The orcs were parading and their numbers were no joke. They have a thousand warriors strong that were against Kael''s army who were two thousand. Despite their numbers, it was not a sure win victory due to the fact that they were against were the high orcs. A stronger tribe of orcs and they have champions. Kael was at the top of the tower and was looking in his telescope. The Fallen was there in the sky where the orcs were located.


    The army of Kael was stationed and all the melee soldiers were at the bottom. Ready to die for their land where they were living. They were thinking of their loved ones as they battled. Always remembering that their family was waiting for them in their homes. Kael was one of them. The fact was he didn''t have much power to rival the Fallen on his current status were making him on edge. His system will help him to overcome his trials. But He was not yet level 1000 to unlock the divinity class. He didn''t copy yet any job class in the meantime due to the preparation for the attack of the fallen in the Golden Valley.


    Kael inhaled deeply. He calmed himself to ease the heavy burden in his back. It was not easy to carry everyone''s burden and to ensure their safety.


    The enemies were approaching. Kael gritted his teeth and prepared for the worst. The enemies were coming and it will be a great feat to overcome it.


    Kael saw that the enemies dashed towards his soldiers. He saw that they were nearing them. Kael commanded the archers to fire their arrows. Together with the crossbowmen, they fired towards the enemy. The enemies were rained with incoming arrows and bolts. Some were pierced with bolt and arrows but they were only pulling the arrows and dashed again. They were a resilient race of monsters that were considered A class monsters. Kael knew this fact that''s why he was tense. It would be a gamble to attack them. How much more with their great numbers.


    The enemies clashed with them and their formation was broken. The enemies were stronger than they imagined. They easily broke through the defense of the spearmen. The two-handers confronted them and were sparring toe to toe with them. The swordsmen clashed with them and it was a brawl that happened. The swordsmen were trained to fight on sparring while the spearmen were trained on frontal defense. A pure offense-defense strategy. The chains men were on binding enemies and the daggers were the daylight assassins. They were the assassins in broad daylight. The shielders were shield-charging the orcs. They were attacked with the enemies'' weapons but sadly, they were unscathed and was retaliating to shield bash them. Making them stunned a bit to the process. They attacked and the chains men whipping them with their chains. Switching to whip mode and punching mode when they like it. The orcs were attacking them and the archers and crossbowmen were firing non stop. They were brawling with each other and it was utter chaos when seen from the top. Kael immediately jumped to from the top of the tower. He draws his sword to help them killing the enemies.


    "The commander has arrived!", shouted his soldiers.


    They felt greater morale due to their commander''s bravery. It summoned their bravery from the deepest parts of their hearts and was on fire to fight the enemy.

 85 Clash part 3

    The army was invigorated by his presence. They steeled themselves to overcome their enemies. As their commander, it was important to give the army high morale to fight. It was due to the fact that they were looking at him with great honor despite his young age. It was also because he''s young that they admired him highly. They were belittling him at their first impression but Kael earned respect from them due to his strength. Courage without strength were useless in wars and knowledge without wisdom were equivalent to it. It was a matter of fact that no one will deny. They were lighted up and the fire within themselves were scattering so fast that they were surpassing themselves.


    [Due to the respect to your presence and your charisma, a talent was born.]


    [Ruler of the battlefield activated.]


    [Pros¨CAll stats of your army will be doubled as long as you won''t die. Cons¨Cif you were hurt badly, the morale will reverse to negative.]


    "Wow! I didn''t thought I am that important to them. Let me see what you''ve got.", Kael said inwardly.


    He joined the battlefield and has gained a talent. He was looking forward to its effect. Immediately, the army was burning with passion to eradicate the enemy. With the attachment he has to his soldiers and the soldiers to him, they made a bond that was stronger than steel. It caused them to be stronger than before.


    Raaarrrrr!!!


    The soldiers shouted as they attacked the enemies. They attacked fiercer and stronger than before. It was due to the effects of the [Ruler of the battlefield]. It was a double edged sword that has its own consequences. With it, they stand with stronger stats. He became the strength of the army himself. If he was there with them, his passive skill was activated. But if he will be wounded, it will make their morale shoot down to negative.


    "The system gave me a troublesome skill. Let''s test it then!". Kael said in his self.


    Kael led the army and they followed him. As the leader, he has the burden to lead them. Kael was gripping his sword harder than before. He jumped to the enemy and made a vertical slash. The orc has an axe and he defended his attack. Kael slides his sword from the enemy and the enemy immediately knew what he plans. He slides his sword and then thrusts it to him. The enemy was a second late when he realized it. The enemy was not wearing armor and was topless. It only resulted to his sword to pierce through his body.


    Kael then went to another enemy to attack and he was making a wedge formation with him on the front. They butchered their way through in the enemy lines. With him in front, they find greater strength. He slashed and butchered the enemies. With the enemies became his experience points. He leveled up without knowing. The orcs has great amount of experience points that were giving when they were slain.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 19


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (33) +


    Dexterity (37) +


    Vitality (38) +


    Focus (88) +


    Stats points: 57


    ....


    "Charge!", Kael shouted to them.


    They were slaying the enemies left and right. Kael was leveling up without him knowing. Kael was slashing enemies and can''t even take a break to take stamina potion. He was in the front line and it was normal there to be slain first. Due to the never ending enemies. He was constantly leveling up until he was level 25.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 25


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (39) +


    Dexterity (43) +


    Vitality (44) +


    Focus (94) +


    Stats points: 75


    ....


    They slayed the thousand enemies and the orcs became their experience points.


    Kael faced the fallen and the fallen was deeply infuriated. He was from the sky and was looking at Kael with great look. Making him froze at where he was standing.


    "Okay that was a terrific victory! I will concede. As mercy from me, I challenge you to win against the orc champion. If you win, I will let you off. But if I win, you will all be my slaves. Was that a deal?", he said to him.


    "I will try!", Kael shouted.


    "Okay then! Let''s start!", he said.

 86 Clash part 4

    Kael was faced with a great trial. He has to overcome the Fallen''s test to defeat the orc champion. He whips his sword to drain the blood from his sword and drank a stamina potion. With the army at his back, he was burdened with their fates to be slaves or not. But of course, Kael will try his best to overcome his enemy. He wiped his sweat and focused to confront his enemy. The enemy was larger than the ordinary orcs. It was dyed with red and he has a large ax that he holds. With the enemy being larger than him. He needs to rely on his speed to evade his enemy. The enemy was topless and has his lower tusk going outside his mouth. Canine was yellowish and has many scars on his body. He was looking at Kael with his red eyes and he has tattoos on his body. Every time he defeats an enemy, he added his one tattoo to his body. He has a towering body that has six-pack abs and a muscular chest. Kael on the contrary was small but has his stats. Relying on it was stupid and Kael needs to be cunning.


    Kael walks in the grassy plains and his enemy also walks towards him. Kael grabbed his sword with greater strength. The grasses sound as he steps at them. The enemy on the other side was walking towards him. The wind blew on his cheeks and he felt the cold air. It didn''t hinder his focus but alleviates his tense feelings. The upcoming battle was all on his hands. Whether he will lose or win, his army will be on his side whatever it takes. He walks towards his enemy and his enemy was breathing heavily. Making sound as he inhales and exhales.


    They faced together with his enemy. The Fallen was looking at them from above. He was focused and he heightened his senses. The enemy was stronger and has battle experience but Kael was a ninja in the past and a professional killer. With his training with different weapons, he was one of the greatest assassins alive in Lumia. With what he was facing, he didn''t need to pity his enemy. He will have to be merciless to win against his enemy. The burden on his back was heavy thus he needs to be the winner. The enemy didn''t know his past and was looking at a kid. He didn''t know that he was a professional killer in the past.


    Kael looked at his enemy and he made his stance. The enemy was looking at him. Looking down at him due to his height. Kael thought that his enemy was underestimating him and that was what he needed. He will surprise him with his attack later on.


    The fallen flew in-between them and he didn''t show his face. He was flapping his wings and folding his hands.


    "The rule was simple, kill the opponent and you will be victorious. It''s kill or be killed! Now start!", He said to them.


    Kael and his enemy dashed towards each other. Kael slashed but his slash only made a small cut. He needs to use greater strength to make a proper wound on the enemy. The enemy slashed his large axe in a horizontal direction. Making a large arc that was evaded by Kael when he ducked. The enemy was fast but Kael was faster.


    The soldiers of Kael was looking at their fight. They were on edge due to the fact that their commander was staking his life to win. They felt moved by the great courage that he exhibits to them. They looked and has felt that their hairs go up when Kael was evading in hair''s breadth. It made them on edge every time Kael was evading.


    The battle was still raging. Kael initiated his attacks to be faster and stronger. His sword was not still dulled but his attacks were shallow. It was not deep enough to cause bleeding on the enemy''s wounds. Kael slashed and thrusts in random order to confuse the enemy. He saw that the enemy will make a vertical slash as he lifted his axe. Kael dashed sideways to evade the enemy and he slashed him on the chest. He also succeeded in wounding the enemy on the chest thus it bleeds.


    But in a blink of an eye, the enemy made a horizontal slash with his axe. Kael blocked it with his sword and was pushed with the force of his slash. It made his way through and he was slashed on the chest. Kael was thrown to the grasses. He rolled three times and then when he looked where was the enemy, he saw that the enemy was preparing to attack him. Immediately, Kael rolled to the other side then backflipped. The enemy''s axe landed on the grass. Kael landed and he was assaulted again with the axe thus he was thrown again by the force.


    He was losing the winning advantage. He was defending the enemy''s attacks with his sword. Kael immediately dashed backward to gain distance but the enemy was so fast and strong. He was not even letting him breathe. Kael was losing stamina due to the great force to block his enemy. The enemy also was losing stamina in a terrifying degree. Using all his force to attack was giving him the advantage. Kael felt that he needs to be faster to inflict damage on the enemy. He dashed in zigzag to close the distance and assaulted his left and right. He was using all his strength to pull it off. He dashed and appeared to the left, making a slash in him at his shoulders. The enemy then slashed him but he evades and appeared on his back again. Kael then slashed him on his back.


    It was taught to him by his father on their dagger lessons. To disappear and appear to their blind spots. It needs speed and strength to pull it off. Kael was making small wounds to him until he was caught with his axe. He was on his back and his enemy turned and slashed him. Making him barely blocking the axe. Luckily, Kael parried it and diverted the force sideways. He blocked and then he was blown to the force. Kael then rotated and landed on the ground. He then dashed again in zigzag and prepared to assault again. The orc was panting and Kael has gained the upper hand. He attacked again but his attacks were lighter than before. Kael then grabbed the chance to inflict more damage on him.


    He dashed in zigzag again so fast that his enemy''s eyes can''t keep up to see. He tightened the grip of his sword and his silhouette can''t be seen. He slashed with all his might and immediately, the enemy was decapitated. His enemy''s eyes were in shock and his enemy''s expression was surprised in the process. His head rolled to the ground and Kael whips his sword to drain the blood.


    The Fallen was surprised that he killed the orc champion. He didn''t expect the orc champion that was the peak existence of orcs were slain by a kid. The enemy marveled at his strength and he was in thought. With Kael''s victory, the fallen can''t prevent his feelings.


    "You won? How did that happen? My minion can be toe to toe with an A-class adventurers! Nevermind, as a man of my words. I will let you off for now. But the army of the Fallens will sweep these lands and attack every kingdom! You will be on your own! Hahahahahah! See you later!", the fallen then disappeared after he said it.


    The army let out their cheers and they hailed his name. Kael on the contrary felt that his chest was bleeding. He touched his armor and it was bloody all over. He didn''t take a health potion when he was battling thus it resulted in him losing blood. His eyes dimmed and the world felt it was rotating. He collapsed afterward.

 87 Res

    Kael collapsed on the battlefield. Due to the loss of blood, he collapsed to the grass, and the army nearly panicked and he was immediately healed by the health potion. Sadly, the health potion didn''t make him wake up. It was because he collapsed instantly. Kael was in his room and he was resting for the meantime. The room was lit by the sunlight and he was resting in his bed.


    Kael twitched his eyelids and his hands moved a bit. He saw the sunlight and the ceiling that was painted with blue and its corners were painted with yellow. He opened and closed his eyes again and saw that his mother was sleeping beside him. He was looking at her and his mother felt that he was awake. He caressed her hair and his mother woke up.


    "Son! You''re awake! Were you hurt somewhere!? Tell me!", she worriedly asked him.


    Kael summoned his strength to sit and to properly talk to her.


    "I''m okay now mom!", Kael said and his memories were blurry. He waked up immediately and his head hurts.


    "Slow down son, you don''t have to force yourself.", his mom said worriedly.


    "I''m okay now mom. So far I''ve remembered, dad was currently training the troops of Dwight. And the fallen said that their army will sweep all the kingdoms. Maybe they will rule the world!", Kael said to his mom.


    "Slow down son, you need to rest first. Don''t worry about your father. You need to take care of yourself first.", Erza said to him.


    "Okay okay! But I''m okay now mom. I''ve regained my strength. I just need to take a nap a bit.", he said to her.


    "We need to be prepared for the worst mom. I have to be prepared as the lord of the Golden Valley.", Kael replied to her.


    "Okay son, I will prepare your meal. For now, just rest a bit. We will discuss grave matters later okay!", she said then kissed him on his forehead.


    Kael smiled and rest a bit. He stretched his stiff body and cooled his mind. The world of Lumia was in grave danger and it was on the hands of the seven chosen ones. The angels were helping but their help was limited. The Lumians were on their own. Kael immediately realized that he has to find the chosen ones and defeat the unknown enemy boss. He was an Arch Fallen that was as strong as Arch Angels. A single angel can obliterate an entire city if they were commanded. It was a matter of fact that was not being seen in the past. Kael just read it on a certain book in the past of what the divine beings can do. One of their powers as Fallens were opening dungeons from the other world.


    Kael was exercising all the routines he was doing when improving his stats using "stat cultivation". His strength, dexterity, vitality, and focus improved by one digit.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 25


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (40) +


    Dexterity (44) +


    Vitality (45) +


    Focus (95) +


    Stats points: 75


    ....


    He was doing his routine and his mother arrived with his meal. She knocks on the door and she entered his room.


    Kael stopped his training and let her in.


    "This was your breakfast! I have brought you rice and beef soup with tamarind! It would help replenish your lost energy!", she said as she puts it on his table.


    Kael wiped his sweat and ate his breakfast. He felt the flavor of the tamarind on his mouth and it was sour with a mixture of flavorful beef soup. He ate rice and he was enjoying the tastiness of his food. It was one of his favorite foods. He ate and ate until he was full. Sipping the soup and eating rice in succession. He was delighted by it. The maid then grabbed his plates and he was back to work. Kael said to his mom that the fallen will attack in the world of Lumia. He felt alarmed when the fallen told him that they will attack with their army. He told that he needs to be prepared for the worst.


    "You still have a bright future son. As a man of vast knowledge, it would be a waste not to learn a job class. You need to be stronger to be able to defend your people. But that was for the future. We will prepare for their attack and this fight was not on you all alone. We all Lumians were in this together.", she said while holding his hands.


    "You''re right mom! All of us were in this together!", Kael said to her.


    Immediately, Kael was back to his work. Making an army and a fortress to be a safe haven for the future attack was Kael''s plan. He needs to be able to create an army rivaling the other kingdoms to protect his people. With many more flocking to Golden Valley, he was able to recruit thousands of people in different sectors. It was a great day for Kael. Remembering the current Golden Valley was very different from its past. All his effort was not in vain and the town was happy that they were safe. All of the people were safe as they saw the training of their army. Kael was also busy enchanting armors and weapons. His efficiency to enchant armors and weapons was greatly enhanced due to his focus of 95 points. His casting time and the mana consumption were greatly reduced. The army was fully armed with full plated armors. He has successfully enchanted five hundred sets of full plated new armors. With the enchantments he has put, their performance was greatly enhanced. He rests for the night and he arrived at the mansion at midnight. He saw that the mansion was lonely as he walks towards his room. He washed with warm water and relieved his stress. It was a good day for Kael. He ate together with his mom and they were merry that night. Solving one problem at a time.

 88 The meeting preparation

    King Leomurd Ainztain was in his room and he woke up in the morning. His room was painted with red and its corners were gold. He faced the golden curtains that was blocking the sun''s rays to enter his room. He went to sit in hwerereading table that has a lamp installed in it. His room has a large carpet and his bed has king''s curtains in it. He was in his nightwear pajamas when he heard a knock in his door.


    "Come in!", the king said while he was sitting. Facing the table as he grabbed a paper to write a letter.


    The butler then entered his room. He was in his formal attire, wearing a tuxedo and slacks pants. He bowed as a way of revering the king himself. He was his butler named Astrid Ghale¨Ca man of virtue and honor.


    "My king! I have a terrible news! The rift from other world was getting bigger each day!Luckily, we have defended the rift to prevent the monsters to come out. The Fallens can go in and out of the World of Lumia because of the rift! We need to call again the other races'' Kings to plan an alliance. This needs another alliance my king!", his butler said to King Leomurd.


    "Thank you for the news. I will immediately make my preparations. Prepare my elites to escort me on the way.", King Leomurd said to him.


    "As you wish your majesty! I will take my leave.", he said to him.


    The king then resumed his writing a letter. It was addressed to the eight kings of the other kingdoms.


    "Dear Kings of other kingdoms, we faced a great crises that was coming. The world of the Fallens has been opened and they successfully entered the world of Lumia. I suggest we plan to make preparations for them to be checked. They rebelled to the Creator and plans to rule the world of Lumia. I ask you to meet me at the Maakengorge where the defense of my army was located. Let''s make a meeting there. I suggest we make a pact of alliance to suppress their forces. Signed, King Leomurd Ainztain.", he writes to the letter.


    He successfully wrote the eight letters that was addressed to them. He sealed it with wax and pressed his ring that has the seal of Dwight kingdom. Making it sealed by the wax as it hardens. He gave it to his butler and he commanded them to deliver it through his messengers towards the other kings.


    The king then prepared his full plated armor that has a golden eagle sign on his chest. He went to his carriage and his elites were his escorts. He prepared for their meeting in the Maakengorge. It was the place where he was solely defending the rift with his army without the current help of other races. He was going to travel to the Maakengorge, the place where they waged war to the evil black dragon king.


    He was escorted with the best soldiers of the kingdom with job-class each. They were a hundred of them, the best of the best, the elites among the elites. The king felt secured together with them. He was in his carriage that has golden plated and silver plated sides and was luxurious when seen. He traveled together with them. Their destination was at the center of the continent of lumia. The place of battle and wars.

 89 The kings travels

    The king was inside his carriage. They encompassed the road towards the Maakengorge. A land of battle and war. The king was sitting in his carriage that was luxurious and has a comfortable couch that has foam inside. When you look from the inside, it has a beautiful red color and was designed with blue paint. The color was deep blue and has eagle design that was made from gold. Its corners were golden and the windows were painted with gold. The curtains were golden and it blocks the sunlight. The carriage has springs so the experience of the passenger on the way will not bumpy. The king was solitary inside without his wife and kids. With the escorts of the king, they travelled without enemies on the way. They encompassed the Dwight forest and the forest was cool. They were encompassing the forest with foggy ambiance. They have carriages that was carrying food and supplies for the army at the Maakengorge. They were guarded by the elites.


    Wolves were howling in the forest and they can''t even put a fight. They were slain immediately. With the forest so dark. The commander decided to encamp for the night. They halted in the way and the king went out from the forest. They set up a camp in the forest. Tents was installed and they were preparing their meal.


    The king approached the commanders. He talked to them.


    "Make a tent for our briefing place. I want to talk to the commanders.", he said to them.


    Immediately, they made a tent for a briefing place. They have a pole that was thrusted to the ground and they put on the tent. Its edges were knotted with ropes that was knotted to the trees nearby. The king then entered the briefing place and called the commanders. Their general was at commanding the troops on the Maakengorge. The king then began the meeting, sitting on the front of his round table and the commanders were sitting beside him round about the table. The king then made his speech.


    "We have been solitary for now on defending the rift, I am hopeful that the other kings will respond to my request. We have soldiers stationed at the Maakengorge but they won''t last forever. I really need their help. I know that all of you were worried due to the fact of the Fallens were as many as a legion of Angels. They were as strong as them. These Divine beings were all S class above. They were powerfull enough to eradicate the other kingdoms. Asking help for the other races were not a sign of weakness but of wisdom. I hope you understand. They will arrive after us tomorrow and we were in dire situations. Commanders! We will fight and eliminate the enemies who will attempt to rule our world. It was in our hands from now on. Dismiss!", the king said to them.


    After their meeting, they ate their self made dinner to themselves. The king lifted his cup and then shouted.


    "For Victory! For Lumia! For the Creator!", he shouted and the soldiers all shouted together with him.


    The night was merry and the king slept in his tent. They all slept with guards that was stationed to the night. The king''s tent was guarded and they woke up in the morning. They continued their journey until they arrived the border of the Dwight. They were approaching the borders of the Maakengorge. This land was barren with sandy soil. The rift was seen from afar and the army made walls to defend from enemy attacks. It was a battle grounds of the Legends, a land where many legends were slain in the past.

 90 The meeting preparation

    The king arrived at the borders. It was afternoon when they arrived. It was a two-day journey from the Capital to Ma-Aken Gorge. Encompassing the Dwight forest and they were on the borders. The horses were panting due to their travel. The king takes a peep on his carriage'' window. Looking from the inside, he saw that they were approaching to the barracks. The walls were towering from the window. The army arrived at the Ma-Aken Gorge, the place of graves to the legends. It was once a grassy place when the first Lumian war has happened. But after the evil dragon cast his magic. The land became dry and the plants died. Making it sandy all over the land.


    The carriage then halted. The king exited his carriage and trumpets where heard.


    Tot! Torotot!


    "The king has arrived!", shouted one of the trumpeters.


    "Prepare the meeting place for the guests. The kings will arrive later on. If they will participate in the meeting, then they will come.", the king said to his butler.


    "As you wish your majesty!", the butler said to the king.


    The general appeared to report to the king. He was in his general armor when he approached its majesty. Wearing full plated armor and he carries his helm in his waist.


    "General Melvin Kael! Status report!", the king said to him.


    "General Melvin Kael! Reporting for duty!", he said as he kneeled.


    "Report!", the king said.


    "Your majesty, the army''s training was successful. We have several masters already at our trainees. They were able to comprehend our Kael family''s techniques. As for the others, they were advanced and below. The rift was getting bigger this time. We have to create another wall and they have to be bigger. The monsters that were coming out were still below G class. They were still manageable your highness!", Melvin Kael said while kneeling.


    "That''s good! Unload the supplies and prepare the meeting place of the kings. I will take my rest for now.", the king said then he taps his shoulders.


    Melvin was still kneeling when the king passed him. He immediately stands up and executes the command of the king. The king went to his quarters to rest and he was resting from the tiring day.


    Melvin Kael went to prepare the meeting place. He prepared a red tent to be the meeting place. Putting the floor mat to the sandy soil and tables to the center of the tent. The tent was large enough to accommodate the nine kings with their generals beside them. Pouring perfume to make it refreshing and it was done.


    The kings will arrive after days and it was better to prepare for it. Melvin Kael then went to the kitchen. There he saw the chefs were busy with their cooking, some were slicing the ingredients, some were pounding the meat with a meat mallet and the others were tasting their cooked food.


    Melvin Kael looked at them and then asked.


    "What''s our dinner?", he asked.


    "It was pork soup, my General! Luckily, the king has replenished our supplies and thus we have meat to spare. It will be a feast general!", the cook said to him.


    Melvin Kael then assembled the troops to eat dinner. The king was happy that night and they ate with his army. They were at the table and the army was sitting in the sand. The stars were up in the sky and the moon was up there. They made a bonfire that night. Watching and guarding the rift to make sure there were no monsters that will come out.


    Melvin Kael sat together with the king. They were talking together. They were at the table and they were nearly finished eating as they talked.


    "Your son was good at lording! Better than you actually! He became a Baron before I left!", he said to him.


    "Wow! that''s great!", Melvin said to him.


    "There was a time when the Golden Valley was attacked by ghouls that came out from dungeon. And guess who saved the army and closed the dungeon? It was your son!", the king said.


    "Really!? Wow! I didn''t think that he was that brave!", Melvin said to him.


    "And there was also a time when the Golden Valley was attacked with the syndicate lords and guess who was the famous commander of Golden Valley!? It was Kael! The new commander of the Golden Valley. I thought he was just a messenger but he was a commander after all!", the king said to him.


    "Really? I want to meet him someday! If fate will permit it.", Melvin said.


    "Let''s all survive this. I hope the other kings will arrive. We''re lucky that we''ve only faced weak monsters.", The king said.


    "Yeah! We need the help of other Kings to rival the Fallens. They were S class above. The elemental dragons were peace-loving creatures and maybe they will help us. The other Kings were also candidates to rival the Fallens but I don''t know to what extent. We all were in dire situations but we will survive this my king.", Melvin said to the king.


    "Yeah! Let me cheer up the soldiers. They really need me to cheer them up.", the king said.


    He walked to the center of the gathering and silenced everyone. He began his speech.


    "All soldiers of Dwight! We will be holding our positions here in Ma-Aken Gorge. The other Kings were coming to help us defend the rift. Let us be strong and of good courage to surpass this test! For Lumia! For Victory! For the Creator!", the king shouted with all his might.


    Argggg!!!


    The soldiers shouted together with him.


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 91 The dream

    The King rested in the night and Melvin Kael went to his quarters. He was in his tent and he looked around. The tent was colored red and it has a window with its own curtain. He watched the moon glowed in the night with its rays pierced his bed. He looked at his table that was made of wood with a chair beside it. It has a lamp with a cloth covered on its top to prevent a direct light to his eyes.


    Melvin sat on his table and looked at the picture frame of his son and wife. He was also in the picture together with them. His son was five years old at that time when they took a picture with him and his wife. Mael posed while smiling and Erza was holding Mael on his back. Melvin was putting his shoulders on her back and his other hand on Mael. It was a picture he only has to relieve his sadness and the feeling of missing them was relieved. He then puts it back to the table and napped in his bed. He removed his armor and then slept in his bed. His mind became fuzzy and he drifted on his dreams.


    He was in the middle of battlegrounds and the army was in disarray. Everyone was in slow motion as Melvin walked passing everyone.


    "Charge!", shouted one of the soldiers.


    The walls were crumbling down as a giant gargantuan orc charged the walls. It was carrying a big tree trunk to bash the walls. The army was all looking as the walls were crumbling down. The wall debris fell to the ground and it produced a banging sound. The Fallen was up in the sky and rained his spell to them.


    [Void Bomb]


    The Fallen cast his spell and it all crashed the army. They were sucked by the void and were crumpled by its intense gravity that was going inwards. Making only lumps of meat as the spell vanished.


    They were in disarray and the Fallen laughed vigorously.


    "Hahahahaha! Die! All of you! Hahaha", the fallen laughed.


    Melvin was on the battlefield but all he could do was watch. He can''t feel his feet moving and when he touched the sword in the ground. His hands will pass through it.


    "Am I in a dream!?", he questioned himself.


    "All I can do was watch.", he said in his mind.


    He walks as the soldiers fight for their lives. It was the Dwight soldiers itself. The flags were a symbol of blue and a golden eagle engraved in it. Watching only in battle inside his dream was not normal in his experience. He was not even used to it. It caused his blood to boil.


    He was looking and their formation was attacked by the orcs. The walls were busted and they emerged from it. Melvin watched from the sidelines and the army of orcs was as many as the sand of the sea. The Fallens emerged from the rift and they were as many as a legion. Making the sky darkened by their sheer numbers. They dived towards the army of Dwight and they attacked.


    Whoooooh!!!


    Melvin was gasping as he woke up. It was a dream but didn''t felt a dream. He saw the sun was just beginning to rise and it was time to wake up the army. He washed his face and went to the barracks.


    He grabbed the bell and clangs it to wake them up. They were asleep so soundly and was not yet awake.


    Kiling! Kiling! Kiling!


    "Rise and shine little ones!".


    They were snappy and they immediately woke up.


    "Good morning General!", they said in chorus.


    "Today was a big day! We prepare for the arrival of other kings! Wash yourselves and assemble at the training ground! Move!", Melvin announced.


    "Sir yes sir!", they shouted in chorus.


    Immediately, they went to wash and Melvin went to the kitchen.


    He opened the door and the chefs were already awake to prepare the ingredients of their breakfast. Some were slicing meat and other vegetables. Some were slicing spices like onions and garlic.


    "Good morning General! We will make pork soup with cabbages.", said their master chef.


    "Wow! That''s great! We will gladly eat it!", Melvin said. He walks to the tent of the King''s meeting place and saw that it was prepared. The perfume was refreshing to the smell and Melvin was glad that it was ready. He went to the training ground and assembled the army.


    Melvin assembled them and he trained them with techniques. The king was watching and saw that they were having a good grasp of the Kael family''s techniques. Melvin then gathered them as they prepared their breakfast. They grabbed their own wooden plates and lined up to receive their own ration.


    The army ate and they were merry at that time. After that, they equipped their armors and gets ready for the coming of other races. They assembled themselves in the sandy training ground. The king made an announcement when they were assembled.


    "Soldiers of Dwight! We will wait for the arrival of the other races. They will come to help us fight our enemies. And the world on the other side was the world of the angel rebels who will rule the world of Lumia. All the races will keep them on the bay and will do the best to prevent them from attacking our kingdoms. We will wait for them for the meantime and hopefully, they will arrive.", the kingdom ended his speech.


    Melvin then switches to the king.


    "For Lumia!", Melvin shouted as he draws his sword, holding it up high.


    The soldiers shouted with him.


    The soldiers then rested while on their armors. They waited for the other kings to arrive. Melvin went to his quarters to rest and the king waited for the other kings to come.


    As the king was in his tent, he saw birds flew to his window. It has containers that has letters inside. He opened it and saw it was letters indeed from each kings.


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 92 The letters

    The king opened the letters, each from the kings. He removed the lid from each container. He twisted it and it produced a popping sound as he pulled its lid. The letter was rolled and it was addressed to him and it came from the Elf king.


    ....


    Dear Dwight King,


    Your letter was received by me. It was alarming to hear your terrible news and don''t worry. We elves have sworn to protect the world of Lumia with our lives. I am actively participating in your quest to protect Lumia. I am glad that this letter was not for war killing each other to rule others but of protecting the peace and the other lives of Lumians.


    The elves will be and always be on the side of peace. We the High elves, together with the Wood elves and the Night elves will fight side by side the humans against the forces of evil. I as the king will be happy to fight for our brethren who will die for our cause. The forces were on the way as you read this letter.


    We will march towards the Ma-Aken Gorge to fight and defend the rift at all costs. I was a king, am deeply moved by your act and will fight alongside you.


    Sincerely yours,


    Elven King Dale Riverdale


    .....


    King Ainztain was happy with what he has read. His hands were cold as he returned the letter to the bird messenger to its container. He lets it fly again and the bird flew hastily. He grabbed another bird messenger and opened the lid. It was from the barbarian king. He grabbed the letter and he opened it. He reads the letter as he holds it.


    .....


    Dear King of Dwight,


    It was terrible news. Their world hosts many evil creatures and the Lumians were in danger. We barbarians will be happy to slay that enemy and we were itching to fight despite the fact that we were peace-loving creatures. It was good news for me to vent my boredom for many years. We will prepare immediately to take upon arms to fight those monsters and we will be fighting with you. Thank you for giving us a new enjoyment to have as we slaughter the enemies for the meantime.


    We will fight to death together with our allies. I hope the other kings will participate with us. It was many years since we last fought in the second war. I am excited about what will be and what will become on this war but we will be surely fighting alongside you.


    Your ally,


    Barbarian King Darius Hulgard


    .....


    King Ainztain was moved by his decisive move. He was happy that two kings will surely help him together with the war with the Fallens. He brings the letter back and lets it flew to the window. He grabbed another bird that was sitting by his window. He removed the lid then opened it. He grabbed the letter and reads it.


    ...


    Dear King Ainztain,


    Your letter was received. It was surprising news to me. Good job on revealing the enemy''s plan by telling us kings. You''ve done great as a king. I will arrive to be the representative of the necromancers. I can''t let my army participate due to the current attacks of the Fallens in my kingdom. They were tasked to defend my kingdom. So I will only bring my elite guards. I have fought some Fallens on the way and was making this letter after I''ve rested a bit. You need to warn other kings of the attacks on your kingdoms. Many Fallens were in the Lumia now and they were left unchecked and was attacking some villages. I was sadly making this letter as a warning. I left the task to defend my kingdom to my Witch queen. I will help you defend the rift for I know because I know that some enemies were still on the Other World. I am sure that their Arch Fallen was still on the other side of the rift. Only the weaker ones were still on the Lumia. And we must prepare for the worst to come.


    I am coming and please be safe.


    Your allied friend,


    King Necromancer Dread Skuld


    ...


    King Ainztain was perplexed by his news. He now knows that king Skuld was making also a hard decision to make. Leaving his wife to defend the kingdom. He also knows that the other villages were attacked with the Fallens and it was the reason he defended the rift. The king was also having a tough decision as he was defending the rift. It was also leaving the kingdom at stake. He assigned his generals to defend the kingdom but also he was defending the rift. As a king, he was protecting the lives of his people.


    He grabbed another letter and reads it.


    ....


    Dear King Leomurd Ainztain,


    We Dwarves were ready for war anytime. As I''ve read the letter, I am deeply saddened by the fact that the enemies were so many. We Dwarves will prepare for the worst. You can count on us to back you up. Stronger enemies were still on the other side of the rift but some of their scouts were now on the Lumia. I am saddened by the fact that some were already killed by them. We must prevent them to pass through the rift and hunt their scouts.


    We will fight to the ends of time. I am sure the elves were already there. Preparing for war. We will not lose on them and prove that Dwarves were stronger. We will come and mark my words as a king that we will fight to the ends.


    Your Dwarven friend,


    Dwarven King Dravid Belgurt


    .....


    King Ainztain was astonished by his message. He can feel his emotions was swelling from the letter and he felt that the Dwarven king was on fire as he writes it. He returned his letter and lets the bird fly again. He grabbed another letter and reads it.


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 93 The letters part 2

    Dear Dwight King,


    We were surprised by your news. We will prepare for war. It was an absolute to defend to the realm and we hope that you understand that. I will reply to your quest to defend the Lumia a yes. I will be actively participating in your mission. But I will still station my army to my kingdom. We were wary of what the enemy will do to my people. I will leave my best guards to defend my kingdom and defend the rift solely. Don''t worry, I am enough to cover my men''s prowess. Thus I will be solitary. All you need was quality than quantity. We will survive this predicament together. The scouts of the enemies were strong enough to rival my guards. How much more their leaders. Let us be prepared for the worst. This didn''t happen in the past and we were facing the greater evil this time. If I estimate it, the enemies were as many as a legion. Each one of them was rivaling dragons and we kings were only Legends. The mythical heroes were nowhere to be seen by now and maybe they were focusing on reaching divinity. Making their character level reach one thousand to have longevity and divinity class. As for me, I don''t have time to reach that level. I am busy to rule the realm for now.


    Let us hope that we kings were enough for now to defend this realm. The past wars were not even worth mentioning to what we will face. Remember that I am coming. Let''s all survive this.


    Your friend,


    Hobbit Mechanic King Midas Gudtarg


    .....


    King Ainztain returned the letter and lets the bird fly. He reads another letter to read. It was from the Lycan Kingdom.


    ....


    Dear King of Dwight,


    We have to prepare for war. It has not yet come but I am sure that the enemies were coming to us. I can feel the presence of the arch fallen from the other side of the rift and he was just waiting for the right time. I will lead my army to fight too in this war. We were born warriors and it was in our blood to fight. We will see if who''s stronger than us, the werebears or the draculas. We will arrive later on and do not worry.


    For now, wait for us. We will surely help.


    Your friend,


    Lycan King Fang Arthur


    ....


    King Ainztain immediately returned the letter and lets the bird fly in the air. He opened another letter that came from the Vampire kingdom.


    ....


    Dear Dwight King,


    The war was imminent. It will come later or sooner. We will participate but we vampires were the fewest in terms of numbers. I will only select a few to participate in the war. The other Fallens were recruiting some of my kindred to fight for them. They were considered rebels and we were making a contingency plan to eradicate them. They were getting numerous as the time goes by and they left my kingdom. I will take upon arms to fight with you as always. Since in the past, we Beast-men were the peacekeepers of Lumia and we ended the first war.


    I was deeply moved by your plan to defend Lumia. We will be coming with great haste towards Ma-Aken Gorge to where you are now.


    Your Vampire Friend,


    Vampire King Bladimir Vlad


    .....


    King Ainztain was moved by his message. He added him to the kings who were participating in the war. He grabbed the last letter who was from the druids.


    ....


    Dear King Ainztain,


    We were deeply saddened by your news. I hope when we arrive were not too late. Recently, there were attacks on our realm that was why we were on high alert. I can not leave my people easily but we will come. Three of us will come to the rift to defend the Lumia. Others will defend our realm. We were hoping that we all survive this.


    Your friend and ally,


    Druid King Edmund Rouse


    ...


    King Ainztain finished reading the letters and he lets their messenger bird flew.


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 94 Their arrival

    The king prepared his tent for the meeting place. He was waiting in his room for the arrival of the other kings. His butler was just outside when the king lets him in.


    "John Elesis, the kings will arrive. Prepare the meeting place and their quarters to be their resting place. Also, the meal will be good enough to be passable for them. It was important that we will let them be comfortable in their stay here.", Ainztain said to him.


    "My king, all was prepared and the meeting place was already set. We were on the waiting phase for them to arrive.", John said to him.


    "That was good to hear. We really need helping hands as many as we can. I received their letters recently and they responded with yes. They will participate in the war to fight our common enemies. They will be enough to defeat other S class Fallens but the leaders will be another level. They were double S class. The Arch fallen was triple S class. That would be really burdensome to face with the strength of our kings who were only legends. Their job classes were legend class but it was not enough to defeat the Arch Fallen. Our only hope was the Mythical class heroes that were hoping to ascend to divinity. With them ascending to divinity, they will acquire longevity. We don''t know where they were right now and I will assign a team to find them. I will leave it in your hands.", the king said to John.


    "As you wish your majesty! We need extra hands to defeat them. I will then prepare the team and I will take my leave. You rest well my king and prepare to meet the other kings. I will excuse myself then.", He bowed then he left. Making the king solitary on his quarters.


    The king then left his room and visited the barracks. He saw the army was training in using techniques. He went to the walls and saw the rift from the distance. The rift was large enough to fit a castle on its gate. The other side was seen as a desolate place with a purple mist in it.


    "The purple mist was also the reason why the monsters were mutated and were stronger than Lumia''s monsters. It also mutated the Angel rebels into Fallens. Making their angelic wings to be like leathery bat wings and changed them to the core. It was the untouchable enemy that was mutating different life forms and was the symbol of the greatest evil¨Cthe greatest enemy of the creator itself. He didn''t created his greatest enemy and it was there since the beginning of time.", the prophet said to him in the past.


    King Ainztain remembered what his prophet told him, "The Angels were perfect beings. Having the highest intellect and wisdom. They have their own will to choose to serve the creator or to oppose him. They served the Creator since they were created and they were dignified to their King and Lord. It was then one Arch Angel who was governing the world of Lumia and other physical world and beings, has dreamt of being the highest of all. He said that he will ascend the heavens and thus, iniquity was found in him. They revolted and challenged the Creator. It was then the Arch Angel Michael came and defeated him. He was thrown together with his allegiances and all angels under him to the other world."


    It was what the prophecy of their prophet has revealed to King Ainztain. He knew what will come thus he already prepared for the worst. Making the decision to be the first one to defend Lumia. He was said that the rift was opened from the other world and the scouts of the enemy legion were already on Lumia.


    He was looking from the walls and saw armies marching towards them. It was the forces of the other kings itself. They were clad in armors and was thoroughly equipped with their best weapons.


    "They have come!", king Ainztain shouted then he laughed vigorously as he pats his soldier''s armor beside him.


    "They have come!", he shouted.


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 95 Their arrival part 2

    "They have arrived!", king Ainztain shouted as he descend the stairs of the walls. He runs to the sandy soil to met with the other kings. He saw Elves that were clad with armors marching towards them. The Dwarves arrived together with their king. The Hobbit king was with his two escorts. He has his battle suit equipped while traveling towards Ma-Aken Gorge. The necromancer king arrived with his two loyal guards. He was only on his robes and a back pack. The Lycans arrived and they were on their werewolf form. The Druids were the same. They were on their werebear forms. The Vampires were in their human form as they travelled. The barbarians arrived late and they were also thoroughly equipped with their armors.


    The king of Barbarians approached king Ainztain.


    "King Ainztain! It''s been years since we met. You daughter were getting bigger as the time goes by. How is she doing?", the king Darius Hulgard of barbarians said to him.


    "She recently became thirteen and was growing up fast. I plan to make her attend the academy next year.", King Ainztain said.


    "King Ainztain! It was good to see you!", the Dwarf king said as he hugged him.


    He was smaller and thus hugged him like a child.


    "I have drinks from our Dwarf kingdom! The best Ale that we have!", King Dravid Belgurt of Dwarves said to him.


    "Sure! Let''s have a toast later on!", King Ainztain said to him.


    "Good job on making that walls! You surely prepared beforehand.", King Dravid said to him.


    "My prophet foresaw it since last year. And he said that a rift will emerged in Ma-Aken Gorge.", King Ainztain said to them.


    King of necromancers approached and removed his hood. He then smiled and talked to King Ainztain.


    "I am busy with establishing my land these past decades. My wife was with my son in my kingdom. He was also thirteen and I plan to make him attend your academy to socialize with his peers. He was a talented necromancer that was a gift to us." King of necromancer Dread Skuld said him.


    "That''s good to hear! I will let him stay in the academy then.", King Ainztain said to him.


    The king of Vampires and Druid, as well as the King of Lycan joined the conversation. They reverted to their human form and walked towards them.


    "My friend! It was nice to see you! I have been slumbering for decades in my coffin and was itching for battle. My Lycan friend will be a good sparring partner for the meantime.", King Bladimir Vlad said to him.


    "Don''t forget our Druid friends. They will satisfy your thirst for battle.", King Edmund Rouse of Druids said to King Bladimir.


    "We Lycans can take you on anytime. But let''s rest for now. And eat together!", said King Fang Arthur.


    "And Drink!", shouted the dwarf king.


    They all laughed together with the Dwarf king. They patted each shoulders as they laughed.


    "Hahaha! That would be great!", said King Ainztain.


    "I am glad we were enjoying seeing each other.", said king Ainztain.


    "Welcome to Ma-Aken Gorge my fellow kings! Let me escort you to your quarters as we talk.", he said and the kings followed him.


    King Ainztain escorted to their rooms while being followed. He let them stay in their room and prepared a meal for them.


    He then said to them beforehand, "Wait for my subordinate to call you. For now, enjoy your stay here. We will prepare for your meal and lets eat together in the meeting place. After it, we will discuss serious matters. I will then make my leave."


    He left them and went to the meeting room. He checked their chairs and table. The room was clean and was thoroughly prepared. The scent of perfume was still lingering. It was time to check their meal and to have a fresh bath.


    He immediately went to their kitchen and saw that the chefs were working on their meal.


    "My king! We will prepare the best meal for the kings! We will finish in two hours.", the master chef said to him.


    "That''s good! Make sure that it will be worth remembering night as we eat.", king Ainztain said to them.


    They were just preparing the ingredients and the king immediately left.


    He went to the barracks and saw that the army was still training. The other army of other kings made a tent outside the walls. They lighted the torches as the night came.


    The king then went to his room and washed himself. Removing his lingering scent as he washed in a perfumed tub. It was warm and was soothing to the muscles. The kings rested in their rooms and Ainztain called his maids. The maid was his head maid and she was in her maid uniform. She prepared the King''s clothes and royal robes. Ainztain then talked to her.


    "Call the kings and let them wash before the meeting. Prepare their baths and escort them in the meeting room. Prepare extra clothes if they have none.", he said to her.


    "As you wish my king!", she said then bowed.


    It was a tiring day and the army rested. The kings were called after they washed and they were escorted to the meeting place.


    They sat at the chair and the table was covered with red thick table cloth and their plates were already placed. The spoons were already arranged with golden cups in place. The kings felt comfortable as they sat. They waited for king Ainztain for he was not yet seen. The dinner were served one by one by the waiters and waitresses. The kings saw different delicacies was served to them. King Ainztain went inside and he waved at them.


    "At last he has arrived!", the Dwarf king said.


    He sat in his chair which was located in the front and then he coughed.


    "Ahem!", he coughed as he covered his mouth with his hand.


    "First of all, I would like to thank each kings for coming. It was a great trial for us to face this test. I will say it again, thank you for coming. We kings will stand strong to defend this land. The greater evil will come and we''re here to fight for our freedom.", King Ainztain said then lifted his cup of wine.


    "For Victory! For Lumia! For the Creator!", he shouted.


    "Cheers!", they all shouted.


    "Let''s eat and be merry tonight!", King Ainztain shouted.


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 96 The royal dinner

    "King Dread! How was your wife now? We met in the past and she was so strong!", King of Dwarves asked.


    "She was doing fine. She can overwhelm me when she uses her spells. But it was strange that she chose me to be his husband.", King Dread said.


    "I thought that I will be single for the rest of my life but she defeated me and I was surprised that she decided that her reward of the battle will be a marriage.", He said.


    "She stormed my hideout to just find me.", King Dread said to him.


    "Bahahaha! That was epic love story you''ve got. Well as for me, my wife was my own general in the past. She was a monster when being angered. She was guarding the kingdom right now. I have faith in her.", King Dravid of Dwarves said then gulped his drink.


    Meanwhile, King Fang was in the middle King Vlad and King Edmund Rouse. King Fang grabbed a ham and ripped the meat with a bite.


    "So how was your kingdom doing?", king Vlad asked Fang.


    "My kingdom was okay. We were busy in training the pups and doing our own lives until I received the letter. My elites were immediately gathered and we left. The kingdom''s security were left to my dad who were still alive and kicking. How about you?", Fang asked him.


    "We? We were doing fine and I woke up recently from my slumber when I received a letter from Dwight. I was surprised by it and plans to let my kingdom be guarded by my men. I then met my princess and was surprised by her growth. Well my princess was thirteen recently. I planned on letting her join Dwight''s academy too. She mastered what she needs to master by the way. I will let her experience like other children. She grows fast like all vampires do.", King Vlad said to him.


    "That''s good to hear!", King Rouse said.


    "We Druids were living in our forest when a messenger arrived. I was hesitant to leave my forest but it was needed for us to be pillars of this world. We don''t have our past heroes to protect us. I can feel that they were approaching the ascension to Divinity. We were celebrating our coming of age feast when we felt that strong entities arrived the Lumia. The world''s balance were disrupted once again.", Rouse said seriously.


    "It was okay mate! We were here to fight anything! Cheers!", Fang lifted his cup and cheers with him.


    "Thanks!", Rouse said relieved.


    Vlad drank his cup and then looked at the other side of table. King of Elves were talking with the Hobbit King and the Dwarven King. They were laughing and the talkative Dwarf king was energetic as always. The King of elves were calm and composed. The Hobbit King was seen and enjoying the food.


    "King Midas Gudtarg of Hobbits! Enjoy the food. Eat well and your height will increase!", the Dwarf king said to him.


    "It was my weight which will increase not my height! It was the same to you ain''t it?", He replied to the Dwarf king.


    "Bah! Who cares. We were fated this way. Wait a minute. Who was taller between us two? I am quite intrigued by it.", He said to the Hobbit king.


    "Literally, I am taller to you! How much more when I equip my battle suit!", He said to him.


    "You will become giant? Well good luck with that. I am still stronger when it comes to raw power despite my height. As you can see, the more we eat, the stronger we become!", the Dwarf king said to him.


    "Hahaha! That was mind-blowing!", the Hobbit King said to him.


    "Hey Elf king! Who will be stronger between us if we fight?", asked The Hobbit king.


    "Not knowing how strong you''ve become will not be possible to guess who will win. But in the past. Well that would be a tie.", he said to them.


    "What!", they both shouted.


    "The Dwarves'' superior armors and weapons, combined with stronger physique will be a tad hard to deal with. The Hobbits despite being physically weak were summoners of automatons and battle suites that were on par with the Dwarves. But it was still hard to guess the outcome.", he briefly explained.


    "Well the outcome was not important. We were on the same side ain''t we? How about we make a toast? Let''s cheer up everyone!", Dwarf king Dravid said to Elf King Dale.


    "Another toast! Cheers!", Dale said as he lifted his cup.


    "How was the food? Did you like it?", King Ainztain asked.


    "It was splendid! How did you find these cooks? Let me hire some of them!", King Dravid said to him.


    "You flatter me King Dravid! Your wines was the best! Glad that you''ve brought some for us to taste it.", Ainztain said to Dravid.


    "It was the best in our kingdom! Smithing was not only our talent. You see, we like wines too!", he said to him.


    "We will be having a hard fight so let us enjoy by now!", King Dravid said to Ainztain.


    King Midas grabbed a roasted chicken leg and took a bite.


    "This is delicious!", he commented.


    "See! That was the reason why I want his chefs!", Dravid said to King Midas.


    "It was because we were using spices. The Dwight''s culinary was the most advanced in terms in cooking. We have collected different knowledge from different families and lineages and it resulted that our cooking evolved in general.", Ainztain said to them.


    "Wow that''s a long history you''ve got. Combining different lineages from different families resulted to Dwight''s prosperity. The different job-class from different families were also astonishing. Do you know who gathered the different families of different job-classes?", the king of Dwarves asked.


    "He was the founder of Dwight kingdom himself. His name was not written in books but I know that he still lives and was in the shadows. Maybe he removed his name in the books and left to journey to have divinity. It was all I know for now.", Ainztain said.


    "I am sorry to hear that.", Dravid said.


    "I think I know some informations about that.", the Elf king said.


    "My ancestors met him once when he founded the Dwight kingdom. He was the party leader of Different Job-classes holders of Dwight that time. But he was once the leader who uses only techniques."


    "Techniques you say?!", King Ainztain said to him while bewildered.


    "He was the leader of the ancestors of the Dwight council of different job-classes. He didn''t have a job-class at all! I don''t know where he was now but I know he was watching in the side-lines. Waiting for the right timing for his return.", the elf king said to him.


    "He was related to the Kael family?", Ainztain said it out loud.


    "Kael family?! Just where did I heard that name. Humm I wonder. But that''s not all, My father said that he visited the elf kingdom in the past. My father also said that he was visiting Dwight sometimes but he was hiding in different identity. I am sure he will surely visit you someday. For sure! Maybe he will show up when the right time will come.", Dale said to Ainztain.


    "Maybe the right time will come. But I think that right time was now or later. I don''t know when but we need him.", Ainztain said.


    "We have arrived to the era where the angels has rebelled to their creator. It didn''t happened before!", The Dwarf king said it out loud.


    "Well the worst will still come! We need to be strong. Let us be vigilant of the enemies and be courageous to face them. Where will our people hide if they passed through the rift! We have to prevent them to pass.", Fang said to them.


    "Yeah and let us finished eating, the food will get cold if we left it.", Dravid said.


    "Eat all you want! We have plenty!", King Ainztain said to him.


    They all ate the food and the waiters and waitresses cleaned the table. The meeting will be starting to commence and the kings were relaxed before it will begin.


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 97 Back again

    Kael has recovered his strength in his rest. With the ample time he has rested and prepared Golden Valley. He needs to get back to adventuring. He needs to level up while getting stronger and lording the Golden Valley will not make him strong enough to defeat his enemies. He needs to be stronger as fast as he could to defend his people.


    Kael was outside their mansion gate and Erza was crying. Vanz and Maledic was also there, standing in front of Kael. His mother wiped her tears with her handkerchief. Kael was worried to his mother''s welfare while she was crying. It was a great test that they successfully passed.


    "I will come back mom. I still have some things to do.", Kael said to his mom.


    "You will leave already? I missed you so much.", she said then hugged him.


    "I will rank up my adventurer status first and be ready to the entrance exam of the academy. If I have achieved a rank A adventurer rank then I can be sure that the academy will not treat me a thrash. With a letter from the guild master of adventurer''s guild, then I will be a step higher from my goal.", Kael said to his mom.


    "Maledic, please ensure the safety of Golden Valley.", Kael said then he turned to Vanz.


    "And Vanz, take care of Golden Valley as I train to become stronger. I will be leveling up first to become stronger. Strong enough to defend my people.", Kael said.


    "Don''t worry Baron Mael, I will ensure the safety of your realm.", Maledic said to him.


    "You will be rest assured master. I will ensure the prosperity of Golden Valley. As well as the condition of your people.", Vanz said to him.


    "That would be good. I am rest assured now that I got you two.", Kael then about face and went on his way.


    After stepping three steps, he turned around to them.


    "And by the way, write me letters okay?", Kael said.


    "Of course! We will!", shouted his mother.


    Kael travelled to the carriages that will travel to the capital. He walks to the streets solitary and the sun was emitting yellowish to reddish color and it was a sight to behold. With the road painted with its rays. Kael felt solitary and as well as happy to his life while reminiscing the past battles. He was hesitant to leave his mother''s side but absolute strength was what he needed right now. Even with the strength of his army was getting stronger, he still needs absolute strength to face the enemy head on. And not to cower in his army''s backs. As an adventurer, he thought that he needs to be stronger as fast as he could. The Fallen warned him that they will wipe off all races that they will face and rule the world of Lumia. It was what will happen to the kingdoms as well as the Golden Valley without absolute strength to protect. It was what Kael was on his mind and it was the truth that he faced.


    For now, he needs to travel to the capital and be as strong as he could. Thanks to the Creator''s gift, he has his system on him. He copied the divinity of Angel Michael on hand and he needs to be level 1000 on his character level. It has the capacity to copy other job-classes. He will be a tad stronger if he has the ability to copy other''s skills. Kael didn''t even know to what extent his system can copy. Nor the secrets it has. All he knows was he can copy the divinity of angels effortlessly and if the conditions was met, he can use them.


    Kael arrived to the terminal while on his robes. He payed the fare and was on his way. He waited for other persons to make the carriage full but no one was there to make it full. The driver then decided to be on his way. They travelled to the Golden Mountain and Kael once again saw the view of his realm. He smiled as he saw the expansion of his town and the people flocking to his town. The walls was seen as the guards were guarding the gates. The giant crossbows of the towers were seen from the carriage. He saw that the town was prepared for enemy siege. The way was foggy and the cold wind stings Kael''s skin as they descended the mountain. The clouds collided with the mountain tops so it was foggy. They successfully travelled the foggy road without ambush nor monsters on the way.


    Kael slept on the way and he arrived the capital. He was woken up by the driver when they arrived the gates to be checked up. It was night time when they arrived to the gates. Kael then gave his adventurer card to the guards and he was checked. He was immediately passed when they saw the adventurer card. Kael then went to the ugly ducking inn and checked in. He approached the receptionist and he talked to her.


    "One month of stay here. Here''s the fee. I want the same room. It was room number seven.", Kael said to her.


    "Sure! How have you been? It''s been so long since you left.", she politely asked.


    "It was sure a long time. I visited my mom for a while to solve some matters.", Kael briefly said.


    "Okay! Here''s the change! And here''s the key to room seven.", she said then handed him three silvers and the key.


    Kael went on his way and planned to retrieve his customized sword and his weights from Kjelg. He cultivated his stats to pass time. This time, he doubled his routine. The push ups were now two hundred. His speed in rapid side steps were twice as fast. He jogs in longer length and twice the length of his mana cultivation.


    He watched his window card and saw it has inprovements.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 25


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (41) +


    Dexterity (45) +


    Vitality (46) +


    Focus (96) +


    Stats points: 75


    ....


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 98 The meeting

    The kings seated in their chairs while they were talking to their fellow kings. In that tent that was colored red. King Ainztain was in the front and he grabbed the kings'' attention. They became serious when Ainztain began to talk.


    "My fellow kings who ruled different kingdoms. We were here today to plan grave matters. The first agenda was to defend Lumia. Right where we stand now. The Ma-Aken Gorge itself. We kings were the hope of our people. Being legends were a feat that will rival the enemies. I suggest that we will suggest a plan to defend this territory.", King Ainztain said to them.


    The kings was calm and composed. He was watched with sincere eyes from each one of them.


    "We will be with you till the end but our numbers were not enough. We need to find the past heroes of second war. I suggest that as our second agenda.", king of elves said to him.


    "I agree with Dale''s suggestion. We were still not enough to suppress the enemies. The scouts were formidable enough and they will be hard to kill. How will we survive against the stronger ones with our ranks as legends?", the king of hobbits said to Ainztain.


    "Another problem was the closing of the rift. It will be hard to close it as for now. But I believe mythical class will be able to close it. It was the strongest class for now that we can hope for.", said Ainztain.


    "I suggest that we find the heroes and hunt the enemy''s scouts. Let''s make a team to hunt them and a team to defend the rift, some will search the heroes. It would be easier that way to solve three problems at a time. Killing three birds with one stone.", King Ainztain said.


    "Then let''s make a team to defend and hunt. Who will be the leader to hunt then?", asked Fang.


    "How about the Beast men kings to hunt the fallen scouts. They were experts on hunting right? The humans kings will find the heroes as they were the most versatile and the Demi human kings to defend the rift due to the fact that they were resilient and experts on many ways." said the Dwarven king.


    "Wow I didn''t know that mouth of yours will be useful.", Fang said to him.


    "Bah! It was my wisdom not my mouth.", he replied.


    "Then your mouth has wisdom then.", Fang said to him.


    "Don''t rub salt on my wound. I''m hurt here.", he said as he taps his chest.


    "Just joking! I am surprised with your temper. You are a king that didn''t move based on your temper!", Fang said to him.


    "You are lucky that I haven''t drink that much.", Dravid said to him.


    The kings chuckled with while looking to Dravid''s expression. He was utterly destroyed by his speech.


    "Ahem! So who agrees with his suggestion.", Ainztain said.


    They all raised their hands and was looking with each other.


    "So who wants to have a relaxing hot bath?", King Ainztain said.


    "You have one in this desert?", Dravid asked.


    "Well water magicians produces water and fire magicians produces heat. They have successfully prepared the bath.", Ainztain said.


    "Well we don''t have a choice don''t we? Let''s relax before we hunt those bastards!", said Fang of Lycans.


    "You have a point! Since the most dangerous job was hunting them.", said Rouse of Druids.


    "Defending was a different case. Stronger enemies will arrive. Hold out till then.", said Ainztain to the Demi-humans kings.


    "Don''t worry that much. We were experts don''t we? In terms of defense that is.", King of Hobbits said to Ainztain.


    "Let''s go! I''m itching to take a bath.", said the Dwarven king.


    The other kings laughed as they exited the tent. They proceeded to the artificial hot bath and they enjoyed that much that night.

 99 Retrieval

    Kael went strolling to the streets and he was wondering what to do. He saw the citizens were walking in the streets and they were not so numerous due to the fact that many were still asleep. He was walking to the brick road while being on pace. The breathing of Kael was cold and he was letting out steam from his mouth.


    "Hmmm, today was unusually cold. The fog was covering the distance and the way was not clear.", Kael said.


    He rubbed his hands and blows air on it. Hot air was alleviating his cold hands and was doing it while walking. Walking to the industrial district where the blacksmiths were located. The smokes of their chimneys were already gushing out and Kael knows that they have already worked. Looking by the distance, he saw the store of Kjelg. The hanging metal poster was very familiar to Kael. He saw that the store was renovated and the molds in the roof were removed. Seeing it was refreshing to the eyes. He will be entering the door and grabbed the handle of the door. He pushed the door and the bells just up in his head were touched and it clangs upon his enter.


    "Anybody home?", Marlin said as he saw that the room has nobody.


    It was utterly silent so he scanned the armors in the room. Enchanting them one by one. He was on his work when Kjelg saw him. Kjelg was shocked as he saw there was already a customer.


    "Oh, it''s you! You arrived just in time. I will get it right away.", Kjelg said then he went back inside.


    Kael waited for him to arrive and was sitting on one of the chairs. He finished enchanting and looked at the weaponry.


    "Kjelg made brand new weapons and armors! He produces pretty fast. Looking at it, I badly needed my weapon and weights. Let''s hope that I will get it now.", Kael said while contemplating.


    Kjelg arrived and he was lifting his customized weapon. His weights were also brought to him.


    "My ordered weapon and weights! Oh, I''m glad that you finished them.", Kael said.


    "The scabbard was here and let me attach it to your back.", Kjelg said.


    He attached it to him and he slides down the big sword to his back. Feeling the weight of the sword as it was put to his back.


    "Wow! It was pretty heavy. I will put my weights on my body now.", Kael said.


    He puts the weights and hops a bit.


    "It was heavy but bearable. My plans and attacks will be different this time. Huhaha! Heavier attacks will be the thing now.", Marlin said.


    "Oh! I am glad that you liked it! Thank you for enchanting my items! I am deeply indebted to you.", Kjelg said to him while bowing.


    "No no, Don''t say that. I will be taking these items and I''ve enchanted the armors and weapons.", Kael said.


    As they were talking, the door opened and the bells chimed. A kid entered and it was at the same age.


    "Kael! You are here too?", Kelvin shouted.


    Kelvin and Kael sighed. Kelvin then approached Kjelg.


    "Did you finished my weights?", Kelvin asked.


    "Yeah! Let me take it first. Wait here.", Kjelg said.


    "So you ordered weights too?", Kelvin asked.


    "Yeah! It was a great physical enhancement method for building up strength. And my attacks will be heavier too!", Kael said.


    "Yeah, same here.", Kelvin said.


    It was then, Kjelg arrived and he brought the weights to Kelvin.


    "Sorry for my delays. I have a bigger quota due to the demand of the customers were high. And Kael here''s your share.", Kjelg said to him and gave the coins in a pouch.


    "Wow, it''s heavy! Thanks!", Kael puts in his bag and then bowed to Kjelg.


    Kelvin then puts the weights to his arms and legs.


    "Wow, it fits perfectly! Nice job sir!", Kelvin said.


    "Thank you for my shares. I will leave now", Kael said.


    "Oh, sure! Please come back someday if you have time.", Kjelg said.


    "Hey, Kelvin let''s eat! It''s on me!", Kael said.


    "If you have spare then I will gladly accompany you!", Kelvin said.


    "Let''s eat ramen. It''s cold outside and it''s the best time to eat it.", Kael said.


    "Yeah, I agree with that! Eating ramen was the best!", Kelvin said.


    "Let''s go!", Kael said.


    Both of them exited the store and went on the way to the food district. On the way, the fog was heavy and thick. They were walking and saw some citizens pass by. It was close to bumping them because of the heavy fog.


    "Are you sure this is the way Kael? We might get lost you know?", Kelvin said worriedly.


    "Yeah! I can smell the foods from here.", Kael said.


    "So that means we are getting near now! I will gladly eat. I didn''t have breakfast yet. I sometimes go to quests without eating. That was pretty affecting my energy and strength.", Kelvin said.


    "Don''t do that again. If you do that, you will be endangering yourself. How about let us eat together every day and take on missions together.", Kael said.


    "Thinking about it. That was a pretty interesting idea. Okay, let''s do that. I don''t have a place to get back to in the first place.", Kelvin said.


    "Let''s be companions from now on. And don''t go to monster killing hunt without a proper meal. Okay!", Kael said.


    "Yeah! Yeah! You sound like a mother. It was eerie to my ears.", Kelvin said.


    "Oh look! A ramen stand! Let''s hurry up.", said Kelvin.


    They saw a small stand that has a curtain in the front of the stall and when they entered the curtain, they saw several chairs that were round. A table was on the front and the chef was in just at the front of your table.


    "You want ramen sir?", said the chef.


    "Two premium ramen sir.", Kael said.


    Kelvin sat at the chair and he was waiting patiently for the food. The chef put noodles on the bowl and put slices of pork meat in the bowl. He sprinkled spices and poured the broth to each of them. He also added a halved boiled egg to the bowl.


    "Here sir! Enjoy!", he said loud and clear.


    Kael grabbed the bowl and passed it to Kelvin. He also grabbed his.


    "Thank you for the food!", they both said.


    Both of them grabbed the chopsticks and sipped the noodles. Eating the pork and the halved boiled egg.


    "It was really nice to eat without worries. I think.", Kelvin said.


    "You must do this every morning with me. If you wanted. I won''t force you to but it was pretty nice to be eating with someone.", Kael said.


    "That makes sense. Yeah, don''t worry about it. It was a nice proposition for me that was all in my favor.", Kelvin said.


    "By the way, you''ve said that you have no place to go back. What do you mean by that?", Kael asked.


    "Oh about that. I am one of the villagers in Shelkhem. We were at a festival and a meteor fell nearby. It was a fallen that emerged on the crash site. My father warned the citizens but it was too late. Monsters appeared after the fallen made a gate to the other world. My father and my mother escaped the village but my mother died protecting me from the fallen.", Kelvin said.


    "I am sorry for forcing you to tell it to me. But you are not the only one who was attacked by fallen. The golden valley was also attacked by monsters and if the meteor was a fallen, then it also caused by the fallen itself.", Kael said.


    He paused and resumed his talking.


    "So that makes us both victims. But I didn''t lose my mother. So I am giving my sympathy. I am sorry.", Kael said.


    "You don''t have to say sorry. There was nothing to be sorry about. You know that there were beings stronger in us, humans, in general, and that''s angels or fallens. Right?", Kelvin asked him.


    "Well yeah! But I don''t think that all hope was lost because of it. Let''s get stronger and avenge our loved ones. We will be avenging them.", Kael said.


    "Yeah! let''s get stronger than fallens shall we?", said Kelvin.


    "Let''s end these sufferings in the world.", Kael said.


    "Not a bad idea. Let''s do that.", Kelvin said.


    They finished a bowl and they ordered another.


    "Another bowl please!", Kael said to the chef.


    They were again given a bowl of ramen and they ate again.


    Kael felt relieved to share his ideas with another person. It was very good news for him to find an ally. Sharing the same hate to the enemy called fallens. A fire was lit in their hearts and Kelvin was also inspired to hear that he was not alone. Well not anymore.

 100 Together with Kelvin

    Kael was with Kelvin eating at the ramen shop. They finished eating and both of them burped.


    "Burpppp!!!"


    They went laughing afterward. Holding their own tummies.


    "Kael, let me get my belongings and meet you here.", Kelvin said.


    "Oh! let me join you get your belongings. Might carry some of your backpacks as well.", Kael said.


    "Really? Well, do what you want. Let''s walk towards the inn I am resting.", Kelvin said.


    "Okay! Let''s go! Was it there?", Kael asked him while pointing out the way on the north.


    "No it was there in the west.", Kelvin said.


    "Okay lead the way!", Kael said.


    Walking the brick road, the sun''s rays were piercing the fog and the way was clearer. It was majestic to see the fog being clearer and it was being blown by the wind. It was still cold and the wind was blowing towards them. Kael and Kelvin was not minding it. But despite the fact that they were not minding it means they didn''t felt it.


    "Gosh! Does the winter was coming? It already fell now.", Kael said.


    "Let''s hurry. My hairs in my skin were all standing up.", Kelvin said.


    They went to the west district where there were many residential houses and inns. They arrived at the Inn and it was a run down one. The wood was black and has green molds on the wooden roof. Some stray cat passed them by and was running from their left to the right.


    "So this is it?", Kael asked him.


    "What''s with that tone? This is the thing!", Kelvin said loud and clear.


    They both entered the inn and there were many candles and lamps on the tables and walls. They were all stared by the men who were already there. Their looks were not very comforting for Kelvin and Kael. The counter has a lamp on it and the teller was a plump girl and has a dirty white apron that was put on her dirty marine blue dress. She smiled and has black dots on her teeth.


    "How may I help you misters?", She asked.


    "I would like to relocate and will take my belongings in my room.", Kelvin said then putting a pouch of coins to the table.


    "That''s my fee for my stay here.", He added.


    Kelvin was just looking at the other customers and they stared back at them. Kael moved closer to Kelvin and let out a whisper to his ears.


    "Hey Kelvin, these people were staring at us.", Kael said.


    "Don''t mind them and don''t talk about them while they were looking at us.", Kelvin said.


    "Oh okay. How about we hurry and leave this place right now. I think they like us.", Kelvin said while still whispering.


    "Don''t say that! It was disgusting!", Kelvin said like he was like shouting in a muffled voice.


    "Okay okay. Let''s go to your room. I felt being undressed by their glances.", Kael said in his ears.


    They went to the room of Kelvin and it was the room on the farthest. Room ten was the number inscribed on it. Kelvin unlocked the door and they went inside.


    Kael saw a bed beside the window with white curtains that were hanging on it. A small table on the left side with a small chair. His rucksack was on his bed and some clothes were hanged on the metal rod. It was for the washed clothes that Kelvin used for drying his clothes.


    "Oh! Your room was cozy despite the cold outside. It was warm here.", said Kael while being struck with warm air.


    "Yeah you can say it that much.", Kelvin said and began to put his dried clothes to his rucksack.


    He put it on his back and then hops a bit.


    "Let''s go!", Kelvin said to Kael.


    They exited the room and walks to the counter. The lady was still there and she smiled again to them. Kelvin handed the key to her and then she grabbed the key hurriedly.


    "Thank you for your service! We will go now.", Kelvin said then bowed at her.


    They left the inn hurriedly and Kael was walking faster than Kelvin to get out. They both walk to the brick road towards Kael''s dwelling place.


    "I don''t like that place. How did you get used to it anyway?", Kael asked.


    "Nah. I was finding a cheap inn because I was short on budget. You can say it that way. When I have arrived here in this city, I was penniless and she took me in despite I don''t have any money. She was kind enough to give me meals even though I don''t have anything to return the favor.", Kelvin said.


    "Oh, I feel bad now. Why are you alone here? Where is your father?", Kael asked.


    "He was on a secret mission from the king himself. He left me a letter and his savings for the academy.", Kelvin said.


    "Oh, that explains it. My father also was on a secret mission from the king. And don''t tell anyone okay. We might get unwanted attention.", Kael said to him.


    "Okay okay, sir Kael. What will we do later on?", Kelvin said.


    "You want to go to adventurer guild and do missions? Both of us? I don''t have a team currently.", Kael said.


    "Okay let''s do that! It was perfect because I don''t have a companion right now.", Kelvin said to him.


    "What is your weapon? You didn''t have one?", Kelvin asked him.


    "I have a dagger inside my rucksack. I sold my sword due to lack of money.", Kelvin said.


    "Don''t do it, dude. Well, let''s choose one for you. You want one?", Kael asked him.


    "Okay let''s find one for you. I have money to spare here. I will buy you an armor if you like.", Kael said.


    "Thanks but let''s set the armor for next time. Let''s do the sword first. Or I can be a shooter that carries a bow and arrow? Are you a ranged type? A melee? A mage? Assassin?", Kelvin asked curiously.


    "I am a melee type and an assassin. I can do ranged but not magic. You see, I am a combatant that has no skills. Gaining skills were only at the academy. You can join me if you like!", Kael said.


    "Yeah let''s join the academy this opening! In one year and we will be enrolling there.", Kelvin said.


    "If you are melee type and assassin then let me do the ranged. I can do well even with a bow.", Kelvin said to him.


    They were very happy talking to each other. They walk and walk until they arrive at the blacksmith store of Kjelg. They entered and the door chimed as the bells were touched. To their surprise, Kjelg was already there standing waiting for visitors.


    "Oh, you came back! What would you like to have?", Kjelg said by surprise.


    "I want the best armor for Kelvin, the best bow, and a quiver of arrows. Give him a set of dual daggers and a sword.", Kael said to Kjelg.


    "As you wish my liege!", Kjelg said.


    "Whoa whoa that was too many to carry!", Kelvin said.


    "At least let me give that much protection and weaponry. I don''t want to be guilty of something that will happen to you.", Marlin said.


    "Okay fine. I will be paying it back in the future. So let me have it.", Kelvin said.


    Kjelg gave his heavy-looking armor and put it to Kelvin. He hops a bit but can not see the difference of having an armor than without. It was full plated cover all armor of knights. It was silver and was shining.


    "This is surprisingly light! I can go all out with this.", Kelvin said.


    "I have enchanted that one with all master level enchantments so you will be protected. Now for your weapons. Kjelg.", Kael said.


    "As you wish!", he said then left.


    He puts the ancient-looking bow to the table and the dual daggers. He turned then puts the sword on the table. The bow was colored white and the daggers were ashen grey. His sword was silver and it was two-handed. befitting of a knight. He equips it all and was a knight that was ready for war.


    "Yeah! I can feel the enchantments that were buffing me. I am feeling too overpowered right now. I feel like this is excessive of the fact that we were low ranked adventurers.", Kelvin said.


    "Hmmm don''t worry about that. I''ve got you covered. Well, it was only normal to spend on equipment if you have the money. Right Kjelg?", Kael said.


    "Yes! The greater the equipment. The easier is the mission. The easier the mission, the faster to level up.", Kjelg explained.


    "You are right. I am level sixty-five and was poorly equipped. I need to be minding my safety and filling the gap of my equipment was one thing.", Kelvin said.


    "Well, let us leave for now. Kjelg, here is the pay. Let''s test your power in our mission later on. Shall we?", Kael said to him.

 101 Mission together

    Kael was with Kelvin. They went traveling to the adventurer guild on foot. Kelvin was gathering unwanted attention as they were traveling. The people were looking at him with awe. Assuming that he was a knight bodyguard of Kael himself.


    "Is getting attention one of the enchantments of your armor?", Kelvin asked.


    Kael laughed at his reaction.


    "Please get used to it. Or you can remove your helmet. It was covering your face.", Kael said.


    "Okay.", Kelvin said and removed his helm.


    He puts it on his waist and resumed walking.


    "You are really cool with your armor. Let''s get fast and go to adventurer guild.", Kael said.


    They went faster and Kelvin saw girls flirting at him. Kelvin didn''t mind it and resumed traveling. Kael felt like the master of a knight. Smiling while on the way to the adventurer guild. With him finding a partner, he felt greater self-confidence. They arrived at the adventurer guild and some adventurers were looking at Kelvin. Someone with a ranger outfit approached Kelvin and grabbed his hand.


    "Wow, do you have a team? Please join us!", he said to him.


    "Ummm, He has a team currently.", Kael said to him.


    He grinned at Kael and stared him with an annoyed look.


    "Do I talk to you brat? Don''t talk to me if I don''t talk to you. Now, where were we? Oh! joins us! We don''t currently have a warrior with us.", he said to Kelvin.


    "Ummm, sorry! I have a team with Kael. He is my master.", Kelvin said to him.


    "Huh? Him? Tsk! Leave him and I will double your pay! Huh?", he said in an annoying tone like being sarcastic.


    "Uh Hahahaha!", Kelvin can''t help but laughed while scratching his head.


    "Hey! You don''t want to bribe him while I am here, can you? You see.....I can pretty buy a mansion with just the armor and weapons I have given to him.", Kael said while pouting.


    "Urgh! Mansion? You are lying! I will just get another teammate then! You will regret this!", he said then left.


    "Ugh! A mansion? Really?", Kelvin asked.


    "Nah it was cheap. Kjelg''s items were cheap but that weapons and armor were in the caliber of an artifact. Costing an entire mansion. Despite the fact that it has only master-level enchantments. It has been stacked with enchantments.", Kael said.


    "Okay, just how precious these are?", Kelvin asked.


    "Don''t mind it. We can find another one if you destroyed it.", Kael said.


    "Um okay!", Kelvin replied.


    Kael went to the quest board and picked one.


    ....


    Mission type¨CDungeon exploration.


    Details¨Cfind out what monsters are within the dungeon cave.


    Location¨CHeltcliff Falls


    Rewards¨CInvestigate the identity of monsters. Extra reward for killing all monsters.


    Duration¨COne week


    ...¡­.


    They went to the quest desk and they submitted the quest. It was received by the lady at the desk and was shocked by its contents. She smiled at them and looked at Kael and Kelvin.


    "Oh! Dungeon exploration! A scouting mission with an extra reward for extermination. Be careful out there okay!", She said and then stamped it with "Taken".


    "Let''s go!", Kael said then they left.


    They exited the adventurer guild and prepared for the journey. They purchased rations for days. They were currently walking towards the Heltcliff Falls. It was located in the north of the capital. It was near the Kobold cave that Kael has cleared. Equipped with his sword shield and weights, they were a force to be reckoned with. While on the way, they were walking on the forest floor that has leaves. The way was red as leaves littered the road. Maple trees were beside the road and were giving shade from the sun. The wind was gushing from the east and produces a whooshing sound as the wind collided with the trunks of the trees. The cold wind strikes their skin and leaves fall off from their twigs.


    "Hey Kael, this weather was a sign of the upcoming winter. It was already fall.", Kelvin said.


    "Yeah! The animals were hibernating now. Monsters were also affected by weather and seasons. Let''s hurry up and go to the kobold cave nearby.", Kael said while enduring the chilling breeze of fall.


    They hurried running to have a shelter in the cold weather. Dashing on the leaves they run to and breathing steam out of their mouths. Kael enchanted his weights with [weightlessness] and [haste] to the boots.


    The snow was seen dropping and the cold breeze were getting more and more intense. Running was the only way they were doing and they met elks running. Crossing the road they were paving and were chased by wolves.


    "Stop! Let''s wait for them to pass by. Let''s hide to the trees.", Kael said while breathing steam from his mouth.


    They run to the nearest tree and went hiding. Howls were echoing the forest and saw the wild wolves pass by and chased the elks.


    "I don''t want to waste energy on these creatures. Let''s watch out for the enemies for now and hurry to the Hentana cave.", Kael said.


    Looking at the wild wolves who passed by, Kael gestured that it was clear. Immediately, they burst running on the road that was covered with leaves. The wind was getting fiercer as the time goes by and they were running hastily.


    "Kael, are we getting nearer to the pit stop? How close are we?", Kelvin asked while keeping the pace while running beside him.


    "We were near! Look at up ahead. See that smoke there? That was the camp of miners. I have cleared the mines so it was a safe place and a hub was established by now.", Kael said while breathing heavily.


    "Oh, so we''re near. Let''s hurry up. I am getting goosebumps as I hear monster shouts while in this forest.", Kael said in a worried voice.


    "I can assure you that we are near and lets rest there.", Kael said.


    Running towards the destination, they went to pass a road that was like a snake. A hard left and a hard right, they went swerving left and right until Kael saw a post that says, "Mining Hub Ahead". A pole that has torches were seen on both sides of the road.


    They saw a camp of people in the area. The miners were currently taking a rest and were eating their lunch. Passing bowls to them and they lined up to get their portion of food. Small tents were made of the skin of animals were installed and there were carriages that were carrying the mined ore of glowing stones. Mercenaries were hired as bodyguards and they were currently eating. Kael didn''t expect it to be changed so dramatically that the past imagery of the market hub was nowhere to be seen. Kael saw a place to eat and he ushered Kelvin to eat with him. Kelvin then went to eat with him and rested for a while because of the tiring journey. They were sitting on one of the chairs for the visitors and began talking after they ate their lunch.


    "Kael. How did you clear the cave? It was infested with kobolds right?", Kelvin asked him.


    "I am like any other adventurer there who were farming experience points and hunting kobolds for their cores. Until I have found that they were making their own weapons and having detailed plans like intelligent beings. At first, it was just exploring the deep floor but I ended up a spy. I brought it to the guild master as evidence. Impressed with my skills, I was proposed with a mission to clear the cave as a reward of studying all job classes in the academy. And here I am, doing missions with you.", Kael said to him.


    "So that means you will learn all job class? Gosh, I hope I can do that too. I am low on budget and plans the same with you. I am quite jealous of your connections.", Kelvin said.


    "So you wanted to be like me who learns all job class? Let''s do it together then!", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah! Fist bump!", Kelvin said.


    "From now on we are brothers! Hahaha!", Kael said.


    "Let''s go now! Or we might end up finishing at night.", Kelvin said.


    Kael and Kelvin have now sworn brothers and they proceeded to their destination which was the Heltcliff falls. There was a way towards the Falls and it was only a foot wide. It was grassy beside the way and there was a river beside them where they were traveling. They walked on the way and was hearing the sound of the river as it traveled downstream. They were following the river upstream where the falls were located and they were surrounded with trees. Chirps of birds were heard and they were traveling towards their migration place.


    "We will be the ones who will first investigate Heltcliff Falls. If it was a monster den or a tourist spot. We will see it later on. Kelvin. Can you tell me what happened to you in detail as we walk?", Kael asked.

 102 Mael Kelvins pas

    Tak!


    Mael''s chopping sound echoed throughout their neighborhood. Mael managed to chop all the woods his mother wants him to chop, he managed to chop one thousand chunks of woods in an hour.


    He is a thirteen-year-old boy that is hardworking and diligent in practice. He is taught by his father, the basic sword fighting and to use a bow in case of an unprecedented situation.


    He jogs before sunrise and practiced daily with physical exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, curl-ups, weighted punches, and close combat techniques like punches and kicks. He also likes to practice rapid side-steps as his main practice.


    He is assigned to gather and chop woods as well as helping his mother to make some food. In the meantime, they are preparing for the upcoming festival in three days. He is gathering dry woods from the forest so they will have something to use when cooking.


    They helped to make banners and placed them on the streets. The people are busy making their stalls of foods, drinks, and goods that are placed in the streets and making lanterns to the street posts. The joy of the village is seen in the faces of everyone, they prepared a once-a-year celebration of the Kingdom''s foundation. Every first day of May, they held a festival to the capital and the surrounding towns and villages to celebrate the time the Creator of the two worlds created the heavenly realm and the mortal realm.


    After Mael gathered the woods and helped his mom, he helped the other villagers to hang lanterns to their houses. They finished their assigned chores in the afternoon and Mael went home to his parents.


    He walked to the streets and saw the village that is very busy and arrived at their home. Their village is called Shelkem village. He opened the small gate made of wood that is shaded by a tree. Their house is simple yet above the ordinary. It has twenty-By-twenty square meter dimensions with a second floor at the top and an attic to sleep with. He entered the main door and saw his mom cooking for tonight''s supper. His dad Zak is brandishing his sword to perfection in the cabin.


    "So son, have you finished your assigned work?", his mom said to him while stirring the soup she is cooking.


    "Yeah, mom! and I''ve also helped others", Mael said as he curls his hands to his armpits.


    "Very good son, now wash up first to have a fresh feeling and we will have fun to the festival later on", his mother Elma said to him.


    Mael gained an idea to give presents to his presents later on. He changed clothes after he washed and hangs his towel to his shoulders and hangs it outside of their home.


    When he is hanging his towel, he saw his father Zak that is swinging his sword near the cabin.


    "Father, let''s spar again", Mael said to his father while grinning.


    "Heh, so you still want to win huh?"


    "Okay fine and hurry up to grab your training sword", Zak said as he trusts his sword to the ground.


    "okay", Mael replied to him


    He hurriedly grabs his training sword and holds it firmly. He made a stance that holds the handle of the sword at the front while still sheathed at his waist. Despite his young age, Mael is aggressive when it comes to sword fights. He has sharpened battle instincts that are forged through fire and refined by his father. This is a sign for him to be a prodigy in terms of fighting.


    He readied his stance and when his father shouted: "Fight like the last day of your life", he advanced with the speed that hurls the pebbles he has stepped in.


    He darts steadily and then unexpectedly, he stepped to the ground like it''s the first and the last step he''ll ever make. The stomped the ground while he moved forward and it caved-in like it has been stomped by an elephant. Instantly, he draws his sword to his opponent, but his father swings it to meet his attack.


    He delivers his blow and at the moment they clashed, Mael changed the direction of his slash and landed a hit to his father while evading.


    "Nice! but too shallow, your strength is not enough for that tactics. I will show you how to do it", his father said as he advanced to Mael


    Mael became more focused, for his father is coming to attack him. He tightened his grip and swings his sword to the back, and when his father approaches, he stepped back to gain more distance and at the last moments and at the right time, he released his swing and clashes with his father''s.


    His father did the same thing he did recently. Zak clashed his sword to Mael and slides it and hits him to his abdomen. He was thrown to the impact of his father''s swing.


    "Hehe! as expected of my father", Mael said as he wiped the corner of his mouth with a little blood.


    "Well, I''m gonna be serious this time", he said as he stands up on his feet.


    He darted again to attack with the sword that he held. This time, he held it with more force. He charged towards his father, faster than before. And again, he swings it to him. He used more force and then...


    Pak!


    The sword flew from his hands and is thrown to the ground, several feet from where they stand.


    "It''s still not over", Mael said as he jumped back and made a fighting stance.


    He readied himself and Zak is astounded.


    "Okay well let''s continue!", Zak said as he readied his sword.


    They again make their stances, Mael is deeply happy and thrilled. To fight when the odds are against him is what makes him excited. When he is facing challenges, his adrenaline rush is constantly brewing inside.


    He approached his father with speed unlike before. His father slashes him and he evades them thoroughly. His father was amazed as well as annoyed with his actions. When focused, he is a prodigy of evading and of dodging but an idiot to attacking. When he is attacking, he has full of holes that will give a chance for the enemy to counter in several cases.


    After a minute of evading and dodging, his battle instinct has been triggered. Once triggered in life and death situations, he will be like a beast that will attack his prey. He will become a different person when that happens but still, he is too aggressive in attacking leaving him open for counters.


    He attacks using his feet with a normal roundhouse kick but his father blocked it and grabbed his feet. His father lifted his feet upwards and he is currently upside down.


    "You surrender?", his father asked


    "Yes yes, so put me down", Mael said grudgingly


    "You''re evading only on purpose! are you?", scolded his father.


    "I will try harder next time so please...", he said while still hanging from his father.


    "Ok fine but I will teach you next time how to attack without being countered", Zak said as he puts down his child.


    "Now prepare yourself, for we will have to watch the opening of the festival", Zak said while handing him the swords.


    "Ok", Mael replied to him then placed the swords to the cabin.


    While he is placing the practice swords, he saw the family''s heirlooms of weapons. From swords to armors and tools, they have gathered the things from his grandfather to his great grandfathers. But the cabin of weapon wares and armor wares still has mysteries behind every single weapon and armor. He closed the cabin without touching any single one of them.


    He entered the backdoor and saw her mom Elma, she is preparing the food they will eat. He was instructed to call his dad because it is time to eat. Within a second, his dad appears to them and said to his wife:


    "Your son is only evading on purpose"


    "What? you''re doing it again? didn''t I told you to attack more cautiously next time!", she said to him while pinching his cheeks.


    "I''m sorry mom, but it is easier for me to evade than to attack. Father is an expert so he can counter me easily, but on weaker opponents.....well they will not be my match", Mael said confidently


    "Hey! enough with the same excuse, I know you''re slacking off and you''re not going to be a great swordsman with that attitude", Zak scolded him


    "Hey guys, would you mind if we will eat already? I''m excited to go now", Mael said to them


    "Yeah, the food will go cold. Let''s eat!", Elma said to them


    They ate with joyful mood and they talked about their son''s daily improvement. They talked to their son about his future and Mael is still not sure what to be, but he wants to be a great hero someday.


    "A hero! that''s great! well, let us know where you will go to school. There is a school for knights, magicians, priests, rogues, rangers, warriors, swordsman, and fighters. Choose well on what you think what''s best", said her mother.


    "Yes mom!", said Mael while finishing his plate


    "Humm, you''re going to name yourself if you want to be a hero. Like the Dodge Hero, imagine the enemies shout like: the dodge hero is coming! Dodge for your lives! Ahhhhh!", Zak said as he burst out laughing.


    "Hey, mom! Dad is making fun of me!", Mael said as he pushed the plate.


    "Zak that''s enough", she said as she collected their plates.


    They finished their supper and washed the dishes. They changed their outfit to semi-formal and walked outside.


    The lanterns are brightly lit beside the road and the people have gathered to watch the event, it will have an opening ceremony. They walked while holding the hands of his parents to prevent him to be lost. While they are walking, Mael dragged his parents to a stall of necklaces and bracelets. He purchased three necklaces for them and placed them in their necks; one for him, one for his mother, and one for his father. His parents were surprised and Elma kissed their child to the cheeks. Zak patted his child''s head and said: "We''re always proud of you son, we always love you"


    While they walked to the stage where the opening ceremony, Zak placed Mael in his shoulders to watch from the top. The people are getting excited about the event of the year. They are watching and the MC greeted everyone. While he is making the mood lively, he declares the festival to be officially open.


    On the first day of the may, an era of the reign of peace, presently in the midst of the festival celebration, the stars fall from the night sky and everybody gazed at it. Nobody knows what will happen or what crisis will arise until suddenly.....

 103 Mael Kelvins past part 2

    On the first day of May, the era of the reign of peace, the stars fall on the night sky while in the midst of the celebration. The people watched the stars that are burning in the atmosphere and some disappeared while burning half-way through. They watched attentively when suddenly, an upcoming meteor flew just above their heads.


    Bang!


    The meteor''s sound echoed to the forest, some screamed after they heard the impact of the meteor.


    Some of them run to watch the crash site in the distance. Zak had a sudden premonition that something bad will happen. He sensed evil entities from the meteor''s direction. With his warrior''s intuition, he warned his wife and son.


    "Son, go with your mom and go home now! Leave this place immediately and we will meet there", Zak said to them hurriedly.


    "Zak be careful!", said Elma to her beloved.


    She kissed him then she grabbed Mael''s hands. Without any further, she went to their house''s direction.


    "Dad!", shouted Mael as he looked back to his father.


    Zak went hurriedly to the crash site with his sword still sheathed in his waist. He sensed evil entities from the meteors'' direction. The people are sprinting to the direction of the crash and Zak is also going in their direction. He managed to move through the crowd like a fish in the water. With all he could, he warned the people of the impending danger, but sadly no one gave an ear to his warnings.


    The crowd is still gathering to the crash site and some are carrying torches and lanterns to illuminate the crowd. They are chit-chatting when they are interrupted with a loud roar, it was the voice of a man that is combined with horror and terror.


    From there, emerges a robed man from the embers of the crash. He has tattered robes that are burning from the embers of the meteor but he is unharmed. Without a trace of goodness, it let out an evil aura that dominates the surrounding and chanted an unknown spell that gathers his mana.


    "Without a doubt, this is a gate!", Zak shouted for everyone to hear.


    Zak warned them but it was too late! There appeared a large gate from the robed man''s back and the minions from underworld crawled out from the portal. From ogres, trolls, goblins, to imps and demons. All came out from the portal. They are watching here to witness the crash site but in their dismay, they only saw monsters crawling out of the portal.


    They are creatures from another world that has come to Lumia recently. With their claws, they can tear apart the skin without effort. Well, the bad news is they are eating live people to satisfy their hunger. You will choose to die instantly than to be eaten alive while screaming or what the books say about them.


    Elma and Mael hid in the corner of the street where there are walls. They managed to hide in time when there is a gargoyle that flies overhead from where they hid.


    "Mom we have to get to our house and pick some weapons so at least we can defend ourselves", said Mael as he formulates a plan


    "Son, how about we take safer routes towards home, we just have to go around the


    streets away from enemies sight", his mom suggested


    "Okay, we''ll go with that plan", said Mael


    They went roundabout to the streets to have a cover from the flying monsters while traveling towards their home. Mael estimated that they will arrive for a few minutes. They sneaked cautiously while taking cover to cover. The gargoyles are busy diving for the crowds to have their victims. So that means that they are temporarily safe for now.


    They arrived at home without trouble but has full of worries. This place will not be safe anymore. For it will be overrun by monsters anytime soon. Zak promised to meet them at their home and will make a plan after that happens.


    His mother went to the cabin together with him. That place is where they stockpiled their heirlooms and weapons, as well as armors. She lits the lamp that is placed in the table that his father owns. His mother has a key in her necklace but Mael didn''t know yet where it will be used. He observed his mother which is currently kneeling at the wooden floor and is finding something.


    "Mael, I will tell you now the secret we''ve kept until now in the cabin. This cabin has a basement that has secrets. We will open it now for the time is ripe. Your father entrusted me this key and it will be yours when the time comes", his mother said while opening the wooden floor.


    She opened it and the trap door opened with a sound. She lighted the underlying door with the lamp she holds and grabbed Mael''s hands. There are a few steps underground that leads to a wooden door which has a keyhole located at the corner just below the door''s handle. She grabbed the key and inserted it to the keyhole then twist it to produce a sound.


    Clunk!


    The door opened up the moment it was opened by the key. The room is dark from the inside and the only light is the lamp which Elma holds.


    "We will now enter it, don''t even tell this to anyone whatever happens, okay?", his mom said to him as she pushed the door that is containing the secrets of their family.


    Mael gulps his saliva and held his mother''s hands while his heart raced like an excited child that will receive its plaything. He followed his mom that is holding the lamp to light up the room.


    When they entered, his mom lights the lamps which are located in the walls and the room is now like a brightly lit room which has the ambiance of a well-designed room for a library. That''s right, it''s a library of books and a weapon and armor shack that has been passed down to Kelvin family and later on, to Mael obviously. The room has teleportation array at the middle, an alchemy table, an enchanting table, a library of books and a room full of chests of golds.


    "We don''t have much time Mael, this library has to be passed down to you and your family. As long as you live, this heirloom lives also together with you. Now, I give you this ring to access this heirloom as a gift from me and your dad. You can always teleport to this room as long as you apply mana to the ring, whenever and wherever you are. This ring can store anything from this room and as well as anything that you own. Now let''s equip ourselves, for the danger is at hand", Elma said to his son while inserting the ring to his finger.


    The ring glowed as a sign of recognizing its new owner. And without delays, they equipped themselves with armors and weapons. Mael chooses a short sword that has lighter and faster swings, he equipped light armor that is just in his right size and came out of the cabin prepared. His mother equipped a long sword and a heavy armor with a sheild that is commonly used by knights. They locked the doorway of their cabin and hurriedly went outside.


    They arrived outside and just in time, his father appeared and is bloody all over his body.


    "The fallen is so strong! we have to evacuate immediately to the capital", he said as he gasped air.


    "We have to take safer routes if we want to avoid enemy encounters", Elma said to her husband


    "Dad, what happened? where did they come from?", Mael asked worriedly


    "I will explain while we escape from this place", his father replied to him


    He and his father, as well as his mother, escaped to the backdoor to the forest and to go through the road to the capital. He managed to be calm because he is with his father and mother. They will have hope when they will arrive at the capital. He never imagined that this tragedy will fall to their village. They are happily gathering to the festival when all this happened to them.


    They are running to the forest and their stamina is slowly depleting. His father is still in great vigor after all the slaughtering he made to the monsters, while his mother is coping up.


    They didn''t meet enemies so far but the gargoyles are still in the air, scouting for enemies to devour. They are going around the village to the road to the capital which is located to the north and they are still on the west side of the village.


    They are still running when they sighted gargoyles at the sky. It is not a problem to his father but what he worries is the reinforcement on the enemy side which will lead them to be surrounded. His father can not protect them when he is occupied by the enemy. Well, their priority now is to escape and to take refuge to the capital so they evaded the enemy sights and hid to the bushes while recuperating their stamina.


    Zak grabbed Elma''s map and pinpointed their location and they are close to the road. He is still gasping for air and he drank a handful of water. He estimates that they will arrive in the daytime and by the cover of the night, they will be hidden from the enemy sight. When they arrive at the roads, they will be guided by the street lamps of the road towards the kingdom.


    They encompassed the dark night and is running like there is no tomorrow. By the distance, they are hearing shrieking sounds produced by the unknown. Mael started to shiver while his sweat is constantly dropping from his head. While they are running, they start to have a glimmer of hope when they are starting to saw the faint lights of the street lights. They are not far from their destination when they heard louder shrieking noise from the distance. They are running and arrived on time when they saw the robed man that is on the road standing silently like an embodiment of horror.


    "Elma! take Mael and run!",Zak shouted to Elma.


    Without delays, she grabbed him and run in the opposite direction.


    Zak confronted the enemy using his sword but it was only banging sounds that they can hear because they run without looking back.

 104 Mael Kelvins past part 3

    Zak has a contest of stamina against his enemy which is a Fallen while Mael and Elma escaped the enemy. They are currently chased by gargoyles and ghouls until Elma is on her limit. The gargoyles are fast approaching and their stamina is drained.


    "Son you must survive, I will hold them back and you go to the capital, warn the soldiers of the Dwight kingdom of the impending threat", said her mom


    "Mom if we part here, the chance of our survival will decrease, and you will be surrounded and I also will be surrounded too. We have to survive this together", Mael said to his mom


    With what Mael has suggested, his mom held his hands and said; "If that''s what you want, then follow me and stay behind my back"


    Because of survival, Mael left no choice but to disobey her mother and stay alive together. In his thought, when they stick together, they can report this to the capital with a higher chance of survival.


    They ran to the direction of the capital with haste without looking back to Zak. Even when they loved him, they still need to report this to the soldiers of the kingdom. They know that he is capable enough to hold him back for long hours.


    In the midst of their fleeing, they felt that the enemies are fast approaching. They realized that sooner or later, the enemies will catch up because they are flying and some are fast enough to catch up with them.


    Knowing this inevitable confrontation, they still dashed and dashed to keep the enemies away from them and to keep the distance from the capital a little bit nearer by a few meters.


    While panting, his mother is assaulted by a diving gargoyle towards them. They are alarmed by the enemy cries that is drawing near from the distance.


    Her mother draws her sword and prepared her battle instinct while Mael is on her back, holding also his own short sword in his waist while still sheathed. They still run while deflecting the upcoming gargoyles. The gargoyle attacks from above and Elma slashed its waist and then it screeched in pain when it stumbled in the pathway.


    They left the enemy to flee from the assaulting enemies and gain distance from them when the undying ghouls at their backs are closing the distance. These monsters are fast and agile and usually hardy and don''t feel pain, which results in them to become tenacious and aggressive in their behavior. When they are commanded to attack an enemy, they will never stop until the command is executed perfectly.


    The enemies are approaching fast and their stamina is draining continuously. With every step they take, they are on high alert because from their both sides are the undying ghouls that are quickly catching up with them.


    Mael is slowly draining his stamina after hours of running, he estimated that he can''t last long in battle if he is completely drained.


    With what is currently happening, the gargoyles are one by one diving to attack them and they are slashed in their attempt. The undying ghouls also dripping their saliva while running towards them.


    One attacked from their back and Elma desperately fended off the enemy with her sword. Mael, on the contrary, is attacked also by a dashing ghoul.


    Slash!!!


    "The undying ghouls are just getting back from the dead even wounded, you must decapitate them to render them from living.", Elma said to her son.


    "So they keep attacking after all our attacks? I see, so you fend them off and I will do the finishing blow, like decapitating them.", Mael said


    "Nicely thought son, let''s do that", replied her mother.


    They made a plan in split seconds and executed it with bravery. The ghouls attacked and Elma bashed them with her shield.


    Bang!


    The ghoul shrieked when she bashed it to its head. Mael at the same time darted to the thrown enemy and slashed its head with precision. When he managed to kill it, the enemies surrounded him then jumped to him. Mael then retreated to Elma and they escaped them.


    Mael is fast enough to evade them and is like a fish, swimming in the enemy assaults while running around his mother. While Elma is bashing her enemies and Mael is finishing them when he has a chance.


    Elma is bashing and Mael is finishing them. They survived for an hour of slaughter and they are extremely exhausted. Especially Mael, because he performed the role of a rearguard and her mother is a vanguard that repels enemies.


    When they saw all the bodies, littered on the pathway and they are the only ones standing, they collapsed because of extreme exhaustion. Elma dropped her shield and it made a clanking sound.


    Mael''s view on her is blurry and he is feeling dizzy in the tiring battle. His body is weakening and his mind fades away when he heard thundering laughter of an unknown origin. His body smashed to the ground and have a last look at the surroundings. He immediately looked up and saw that this figure is floating mid-air and has wings of a dragon, then he saw a figure of a warrior with wings of an eagle (large enough to cover its body), collided with the figure and that''s what he saw until he closed his eyes.


    Time passed by in Lumia and the world is still in danger to the Fallens and their minions. The battle is still ongoing and he is still in the trance in the depths of his mind, swallowed by the void of his own.


    "Mael!"


    "Mael!"


    "Mael!"


    Time seems to slow down as he is sleeping but in his dreams, he is constantly being called by someone he knew. The voice of her mother is calling louder and louder but is not clear and seems to be stuttering until he is woken up by a loud boom in the near vicinity.


    "Hah!? hah hah hah"


    Mael breathes heavily when he was woken up in his dreams and is being held by his mother. They are hiding in a tree large enough to be hidden from the battle.


    "It''s okay son, were safe for now. I hide you here while the angel and the fallen are fighting but it''s just a matter of time when they will find us. The angel is holding off but he is still disadvantaged to the enemy. We will escape while we can if you''re okay now", said Elma to his son.


    While they were talking, the night sky is being lighted up by fire and magic that is coming from the two battling rivals. The sound and flashes are coming in closer and closer then suddenly, an upcoming figure came crashing to the tree where they''re hiding.


    "Run!", Elma shouted


    Boom!


    A loud banging sound was made when it crashed to the tree, the tree is cut into half and they saw the figure blown to many trees that it made a straight line of cleared space in the forest.


    It was the figure of a warrior with broken wings, it was the angel itself!


    They were shocked to the outcome of the battle and they are frightened that the enemy is stronger than they imagined. Without the angel who protects them, they will be the only ones left to protect themselves. Mael, on the contrary, has a feeling of anxiety, whether they can survive or not, it depends on the decisions they will make to survive.


    While they are contemplating for a second, the enemy didn''t give them time to escape. It landed on the ground with its wings held high and slammed its feet on the ground, it produced a great sound that is loud enough to make you cover your ear.


    Mael was struck by fear, and cold sweat fell from his head to his cheeks. In the moment of sickening truth, Elma was left of only one option and that is to repel the enemy and make Mael escape.


    In the cold night which is dark, the Fallen lighted up ablaze the forest and the light of fire illuminates his gruesome face. Without second thoughts, Elma takes on her sword and shield and shouted to his dear son.


    "Mael run!!!"


    Mael on the other hand, is hesitating to whether flee for his life or help his mom to escape from the enemy. He unsheathed his sword from his waist and prepared for the attack but at the moment his mother looked back at him.


    "I said run! don''t you dare disobey me this time! we''re all gonna die if you disobey me", Elma said to him while her tears are flowing.


    It only means that Elma is desperate enough to save her son at this moment of time. She neglected her safety, even though she thought that they will be able to both escapes but the enemy is strong enough to take them down. So she was only left with a single option to choose, which is to make her legacy to survive and be strong enough for the future.


    She held her shield and sword and confronted the enemy while saying, "We will meet again in the future son". She strikes the enemy with all her courage. She dashed and dashed until a big explosion burst from the enemy and a great white light that is blinding enough to make you close your eyes, accompanied by a great booming sound that is emitted from the magic of the enemy.


    It erased the surrounding domain of forest, only leaving ashes and brimstones to be walked on. Mael himself is blown away by the shock-wave of the ancient magic of angels that originated from the Creator himself.


    He crouched from the ground and was in pain when he is trying to stand up, but it was all in waste. He is gripping the dust when he realized shortly that his mother is nowhere to be seen and all he could do is cry and cry and cry. His tears fall to the ground and are sizzling because of the scorching heat that is still present to the ground. He manages to subdue his loneliness and anger when he heard the laughter of the enemy that killed his mother.


    He summoned all his strength to stand up using all his rage and wrath while breathing heavily. His tears dried up and he no longer feels pain or anything. Just rage and anger. He stands up and looked upon the despicable creature that he hates the most, with blood flowing from his head and burns from his darkened skin, he charged to the angel and he is showered by a barrage of missiles from the Fallen. He is hearing laughter from the enemy and he is evading the missiles. Luckily, the missiles are not a homing one and Mael is dodging them with pleasure. He has a great instinct in dodging and his only problem is his stamina that is drained in place of his successive evasion.


    He is making progress in making it halfway to the angel and wake him up and give him a health potion. But the problem is how can he give it to him when he is currently fighting. Does he even have a chance to do it with the current enemy attacking him nonstop? Well, he will solve that if he can arrive first to his destination.


    He saw many more magic missiles incoming and he is halfway through and his speed is deteriorating. Well, it will be more strenuous to dodge when more of his stamina is depleting. He unbuckles his belt holding his short sword in his waist and strapped it in his chest across his shoulders making the sword positioned in his back. It will be easier to dodge with his sheath not jingling around.


    He is nearer and nearer but the enemy just doubled its missiles. The ground is hit and the rocks and soil from the ground are all thrown all over his surroundings while he evades, making him all covered in dirt and dust. If you''re lucky enough to be blinded by incoming dirt to your eyes then it will be a disaster. The enemy didn''t move from its original place and is just firing low leveled missiles to Mael. Maybe the villain is underestimating his enemy and it is an opportunity to him.


    Wosh! Wosh! Wosh!


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    His efficiency in dodging is slowly upgrading and it has still more room to grow. Mael feels that he became more cunning when it comes to evading. His leather armor is a little worn out because of his nonstop movement and action. He also feels that his foot is aching. But the fire of his soul is again being lit.


    He can see that he is nearing the end of the tunnel as he sees his destination or his dead end. It depends whether he will succeed in reviving the collapsed angel laying down on the small crater caused by its crash. He hastily opened the lid of the health potion and trusted it to his mouth and took his shield to defend from the missiles.


    The Fallen then gave a sour smile when Mael succeded in his plans to reach the rival enemy.


    "Hahahaha! do you think that pity of an excuse weakling can defeat me? Well if you can endure enough to my minions, I will tell you my name! and as a bonus I will also let you live!", the Fallen said an offer that will give them a chance to live, well both of them actually.


    Without a second, the Angel woke up and is coughing hard but still can''t get up. He slapped him gently to his face covered with helm and said, "Hey wake up! you hear me! at least stand-up and fight him so we will have a chance to live here if we can get through this"


    The Angel lifted his weary hands and puts it in his shoulders then said, "I can''t stand up for now child but you can. Please do me a favor, give me time to recuperate my divine powers and I will fight alongside you. You''re in my debt child, I know what you can do and you''re the only one who can do it. Now go and defeat his minions. Rise from your own past self and reclaim your future"

 105 Mael Kelvins past part 4

    Mael is facing a great challenge in the current events and he will face a great horde of monsters that are summoned by his enemy. This guy will tell his name if he will actually defeat his minions and the price of winning is his life and the Angel that is laying down on the ground.


    Meanwhile in the forest which is still burning, located at the uncharted wilderness of Dwight Kingdom''s forest near the road of Dwight.


    He is facing the great horde of monsters that are coming out of the portal; from ghouls to gargoyles, imps and other demonic creatures, from big to small, great or meager, all mixed together, all came out for the awaited orders from their master, standing still and all looked to Mael with fierceness. Some are sad looking, some are angry, and some are smiling. All of them are monsters and devils.


    Mael is wondering where did they come from and where is the other world from the portal. All he knows that this is bad news, from the start and to his last breathing, he knows that this creature is the enemy that ended the lives of the villagers and his mother is killed by one of them. He will gladly lay down his life in order to get revenge and finish all of them in order to save his life and his broken companion. Quite ironic but it''s the truth, well there''s a risk of losing your life in order to keep it and save others.


    He gave his one and only healing potion to the wounded Angel and is left with no healing at all. He is staggering to walk slowly because he is feeling again the pain of his recent wounds and injuries. He held his sword and prepared to attack but he was stopped by a shout.


    "Wait!"


    The Angel spoke with a loud voice.


    "I admire your courage child and your kindness, you''ve proven yourself worthy of my gift. With that, I gave you momentary power enough to defeat the minions so that you may prove to me what you can do. You have ten minutes to defeat them and remain victorious to the end. Now go!"


    Mael stood there and the angel pointed his hands to him and a shining light is released from his hands. It left him and went to Mael''s body.


    After a second, Mael felt power coursing from his body. This mysterious powers is healing his wounds and gives him strength. If Mael imagines it, it has continues [Regeneration] and [Divine Strength] that is only temporary for ten minutes. With this power, it is enough to take on hundreds of enemies in minutes.


    [Regeneration]- is an active buff skill that restores lost limbs and replenishes stamina. It has a duration of ten minutes and can be extended depends on the mana applied. It is one of the highest healing skills there is.


    He is looking at the towering trolls, parading goblins, and imps, orcs, ghouls and gargoyles, draculas and Cerberus. All of them are coming out of the portal and there''s a thousand of them. If the time is enough, he can take them down but if only fate permits it, then he will still be alive to report it to the kingdom.


    With all odds against him, he is left with only one choice, and that is to butcher all of them. He held his sword from behind and prepared to unleash his fury to his enemies. His current strength is his unreachable stage but he engraved it in his mind that this stage of strength is where he will be in the future.


    He focused his strength on his feet and dashed. In a matter of seconds, he reached the enemies and pierced through their formation. Blood follows him every time he went through the enemies.


    Boom! Boom! Splash!


    The Fallen is amazed by what is Mael''s doing and his blood is boiling in excitement. He watched from the air but he is not stopping to be amazed. First, Mael is charging at the goblins and all of them are blown away. He kicked some, slashed them into two and stabbed them, making his sword a barbecue stick. His speed is not comparable from before and his stats have increased except his vitality and intelligence. With his strength increased, his capability to dodge and to slash are greatly increased. He can kill ten goblins per second if he is counting the onslaught on the enemies.


    His killing spree is continuing until the goblins are in disarray and broken. They never encountered such ferocity in ages but being surprised by a single enemy is the first time experience in their lives. They never thought of being killed in the first place and this is the least they are expecting.


    They are fleeing and some are giving up their weapon when they are seeing him but the orcs appeared in the battle. These orcs are ready to die and are not afraid of death. They are courageous and brave warriors that are disciplined in combat, making them C class monsters. They are armed in combat and have weapons for killing.


    They are classified by letters starting from F to S and the Fallens are classified starting from S to triple S and divided with lesser(-) and greater(+) on their class. There are many more monsters stronger than orcs and they are only on C+ class making them on the middle class.


    Mael is still on the rampage and he does not plan on stopping from goblins. He wants to let them feel his rage when he is letting out his steam. He is seeing that the goblins are withdrawing from the slaughterer and the orcs are starting to flock from the distance, the other monsters are still on standby and still awaiting orders from their master.


    He never thought that this "[Divine Strenght]" is that powerful, he will test it on the orcs in the meantime. They will be the lab rat that will prove how powerful is the strength of Angels, well all below "S class" will be slaughtered if that is the real strength of Angels if you imagine.


    The orcs are getting nearer and encircling him, their red skin resembles that they are high orcs and that will be challenging for a child to kill seasoned fighters. But of course, that will be challenging also in their part if they are encountering a "prodigy child of dodge" combined with "strengthening skill of Angels". Well, he is not all-powerful but still a child, not even knowing a single skill from any class but only evasion and simple exercises.


    For his father, normal movements (whether parry, counter, slash, block, trust, evade, etc.) without using skill and mana are the foundation that prepares him for learning skills. All his time is poured into exercises that make him ready up until now.


    He is ready for any assault coming from the enemy and he is covered by blood, furthermore, his blade is not holding up in the intense battle. He can see some chipped parts from the blade because it is not built for Angelic might, but impressively it holds up and still usable for ten minutes.


    His enemies are looking with a grimace and their lower canine is bulging from their mouth. Their faces are a symbol of boldness and dignity. Then it will only be crumpled later because his wrath will be showered upon them. Dignity or not, it''s all the same for his sword.


    When the orcs will give the initiative to attack, then it is time to counter. The orc leader is standing in the middle of the encirclement, Initiated the attack with a fierce roaring battle cry.


    They flooded the battlefield and charged to their single enemy. With their spirits lifted up by their battle cries, their strength and courage are summoned from the depths of their heart. Will they succeed in the assault? will they be victorious? well, they are united in their hearts as one by their leader and they are getting nearer and nearer. Mael at the same time is crouching on the ground while putting his left hand on the ground and his right hand is on his short sword on his back. Waiting to pierce again the horde like a crouching tiger, ready to devour the prey on his hunting grounds.


    He inhaled a handful of air then stomped the ground forwards like a pouncing cheetah. In an instant, he reached the leader and draws the blade, making a vertical slash in split second. He then turned and kicked the bodyguard to the abdomen and slashed the other in the chest where it can even barely defend himself.


    Three are down in an instant, the other bodyguard''s sword is flown in the other orcs and they are surprised by the souvenir sword from his friend. They are pretty lively up until recently then they are stunned by an outburst of screams of their brethren. Their battle cry turned to painful screams while some are in chorus with the other.


    Mael charged to the heart of enemy lines while slashing an enemy even they are defending with their Shields and weapons, well all their tools of war is all smashed by the blade of the young child that has resentments to them.


    The enemy lines are broken easily with his tremendous strength. Some are kicked over, some are blown up in the air and some are split into two. Mael never stopped in his slaughter even they are soft enough to be squashed upon by his kick. For him, it is the most satisfying work-of-art of revenge.


    In his life, he never takes pleasure in killing but these monsters will be killing innocents whether he like it or not. So killing them will be saving lives at the same time. He succeeded in cutting half of their numbers in seconds without using mana or attack skills at all.


    He slashes them without mercy but the enemies are still not retreating. Their dignity is on the line as the best warriors of their clan and dying from the enemy''s sword is an honorable way to die for them. "No retreat, no surrender," they say. But with their thinning numbers, their cries are thinning also. Their bodies are broken but not their spirits. They rushed to the enemy until their last moments came, wondering if they have successfully completed their assignment or is it their last one. Well, the sad truth is bitter and they died without knowing.


    One minute is given to them and there are only nine minutes left, but still, there are much more waiting for him beside the master of the monsters.


    The unknown Fallen then said moments later saying, "If you''ve enjoyed yourself then have some more, it''s all just a warm-up to relieve your boredom. I''m sorry if we''re short-handed of staff to greet you but here they are!"


    It pointed his fingers to Mael then this time, they all charged to him. A couple of hundred, not exceeding a thousand, came rushing to him on the battlefield. With seconds of notice, Mael felt alarmed whether the remaining time is sufficient or not.

 106 Mael Kelvins past part 5

    The time is running out and their fate depends on his hands, it is whether he can pass the trial or not, and if he can pass it with flying colors, he will be given the freedom to live and continue his journey to the kingdom. With the time is on the essence, he needs to eliminate them on the remaining time and to stand alone in the masses of corpses. He is only a child but burdened with a great responsibility to survive. When he was a child, he is taught to survive in the wilderness and on the battlefield, but he never thought it would be this useful in actual situations and circumstances.


    With the nine minutes remaining time, he thought that it will be challenging to finish the job so he will have to double his rate of killing. If his sword will give up halfway then he will have to switch in scavenging the fallen enemies. He is currently standing on the fallen enemies and he wishes to live through this predicament. He is so sad at the time and he is still miserably lonely at the moment, feeling the emptiness of his heart at the recent passing of the mother he once held.


    At the passing time on the corpse-filled battlefield, the enemies are currently charging at him like a rushing flood that sounds like claps of rumbling thunder. The rocks are leaping as they are moving towards him and the ground is trembling caused by their footsteps. Mael made a horizontal slash in the air to wash out the blood from his short sword. The blood splashed in the ground and he stretched his body to relieve the stress.


    He has nine minutes and the time is still ticking. He has to make it alive and finish the time and that is what is on his mind. If the Fallen will keep his promise then they will see again the daylight at the end of the night, if fate wills it to be attainable. But his heart is bitterly agonizing because he still can''t avenge his mother, watching the one who killed her mother take pity on him and play with their lives.


    "Tick tack tick tack, can you last till the end of the time? Humph, I wonder?", the mysterious Fallen said while he is sitting on a summoned chair while drinking a cup of grape wine. With the night getting deeper, he needs to warm himself with a drink. The wind blew colder in the air where he is sitting and watching his playthings to entertain him.


    He takes another sip and smiled widely, wondering how far his toy will go with a petty blessing of the lowest-ranked Angel. He has gained some divine powers because he has sucked some powers from his enemy, making the Angel empty and can not even stand.


    The trolls are stomping the ground and it shakes like an earthquake, while the gargoyles and draculas are flocking the night sky. Other monsters are running and are ahead of others. Basically, the Cerberus is running fast making only the ghouls second to them and other monsters are catching up.


    While looking in the air, he expected them to be the second to attack. The Cerberus has a couple of dozens in numbers and they are the ones leading the charge. With their numbers, they will consume a couple of seconds to be finished. Well, it is easier said than done so he never expects it to be accurate in the actual battle.


    Several seconds have passed and they charged at him, atrocious enough to scare witlessly a normal child in their 13 years old of age. It will be easy for these creatures to scare a child like his age but Mael is a peculiar child, a fearless child that doesn''t cower on his parents'' back. He prefers to be independent when the time comes for him to be solitary in the pathway of adulthood.


    He managed to kill a hundred enemies and there is no turning back. With his hands that are stained with blood at a young age, he is concerned about whether his remorse will attack his conscience or will make him have nightmares. It is not good for a child to kill, whether it is a monster or an abomination, moreover a human. Will he be a ruthless killer in the future? That''s the question in his mind when he killed ruthlessly.


    To kill or to be killed, it is a rule in this world that honors the strong and in power. He has no choice but to survive. He has to do it in accordance with the will of the Angel. As time goes by in seconds, he is approached by his enemies. Not wasting any more precious time, he leaped to the air and dived to the Cerberus, making the ground become a crater and all the rocks and dirt flown the approaching ghouls. Sounding a boom that came crashing to the ghouls, making them tidbits and rendering them useless. The ghouls are regenerating but are not moving, they became lumps of meat and they will take time to fully recover.


    With the excessive force applied, some of his bones are broken and repaired in seconds with the help of blessing [Regeneration], his recovery rate is increased to the optimum and as well as his fatigue recovery. This blessing is not all-powerful because it can''t prevent you from getting hurt or damaged and you can always feel the pain in that duration of ten minutes.


    He observed the battlefield in the open and they are blown away by the shock wave of the meteor-like creature. His enemies are in disarray and some shrieked in fear. With the tides is in his favor, he pushed through to the fray and finished off the surviving Cerberus and Ghouls that blocks his way.


    The Draculas and Gargoyles came diving to him successively. One gargoyle dived to him and he slashed its wings then it crashed to the ground. The others arrived at the clash site and are encircling him in the air, just waiting to catch him off guard or waiting at the right time to attack. With the enemies flocking in the air, he has to be more vigilant at the same time.


    The Draculas are like gargoyles but they are the prime of the vampires. With their bigger bodies compared to the gargoyles and ferocity at the level of A- class monster. They will be a force to be reckoned with if they flock together, combined with gargoyles that are B- class monsters. All in all, it will be very difficult enemies to repel, much more to exterminate.


    He has to be faster if he needs to survive their onslaught. With his strength increased, his leg strength will be on par with Angels. He can also increase his speed but will have difficulty in controlling it.


    He is in the middle of the encirclement of the flocking enemies, making a tornado-like formation, they are on the advantage of being on the air and when they all attack together, Mael will be ripped apart, nevermind his [Regeneration] on the Bloodsucking, flesh-eating, gut-grinding abominations of the darkness.


    With Mael''s vulnerability, his light armor will not hold out if ripped by the jaws of the prime vampires. It is said that leather light armors are for blunts and slashes but not for piercing. His enemies'' canines have the piercing capability and are the weakness of the leather armor of Mael. In short, he has to be wary of the current enemies.


    He watched the sky and it''s getting darker with them obstructing the moonlight in the night sky. With the current situation, Mael closed his eyes and concentrated on the enemies'' sound waves. With seconds of notice, he detected the enemies are getting closer and closer. Then on the signal of the prime Dracula, They all attacked synchronously, making Mael have no openings for a retreat.


    In their current plan, the disadvantaged is the one in the center. With all odds against him, he needs to be courageous in this kind of predicament. His healing capability will not catch up with the damage he will take, while he is at the heart of the encirclement, he is cornered like a rat trapped in the hole and the predator is just waiting outside to attack its prey.


    He tightened the grip in his sword and he stands still in the midst of the storm. All enemies that are flying around him are approaching fast in the center. Prime Dracula leads the assault of the monsters and that place will be bloody. Mael''s hands are tingling at the sight of all enemies coming together to be slaughtered and piece by piece, he will rip them apart.


    One meter before impact, He unleashed his sword from the scabbard with speed and force. In the blank space distance, the Prime Dracula and his sword clashed. With the force applied and the moment the iron claws of the Dracula touched, the sword broke into pieces.


    He managed to be safe in the explosion of the sword''s pieces and unscathed in the clash. With his sword broken, he is resorted to fist fighting and kicking like a fighter. With the sturdy body of The Draculas and Gargoyles, it is a great matchup for his tremendous strength. If the enemies can cope up with the damage, then it will be troublesome.


    Mael was struck by disappointment, his cherished sword is broken by the iron claws of the enemy. His sword is a low-class iron short sword but it will not prevail against the superiority of the Draculas'' claws. Their claws will fetch a high price in the market, used as the claws of clawed weapons of the rouges.


    The barrage of clawing and scratching came after his sword broke and he is barely evading the attacks, his clothes are tattered in pieces and his leather armor is full of straight lines that are the result of him barely evading the claws.


    They are slowly planning on covering and piling over Mael and he is cornered. Luckily, he still has a space to kick them off out of the "tornado of flying beasts". He made a double reverse roundhouse kick that arched to the front and back. Making the monsters pitifully cried when their bones snapped to the over applied force by a single person who is still a youngster.


    They are blown away by the force and Mael switched to hand-to-hand combat, he squats and folds his arm by his side making a fighter''s posture of combat readiness. He focused on concentrating and mustering his battle instincts to fight the enemies. If the situation is worsening, then he needs to adjust depends on the circumstance of his life. He is gonna punch his way through the enemies.


    Thirty seconds have passed and his enemies are still encircling. The Draculas waited in the air and commanded the gargoyles to attack in unison. Mael on the contrary, still waiting for them to attack.


    The Gargoyles launched an attack and Mael gripped his hands, hard enough to crush hard rock. He inhaled air through his mouth and held his breath while still in his fighting stance. He grinned and jumped in the air upwards.


    Wosh!


    With the enemies saw him, they assaulted him mid-air, they are approaching him so fast and Mael collided with them in the air. Everyone who approached is struck by his body and they are thrown away by his force. He is still going up and the encircling gargoyles are still incoming. He smashed them and all that are incoming, he punched one by one and they are thrown away while their flesh and blood splattered in the air rapidly.

 107 Mael Kelvins past part 6

    Mael punches and kicks the gargoyles but they keep on coming. All of the gargoyles are attacking and his momentum of flight is coming to its end. Now when he is slowing down, he is grabbed in the hands and the others are on his feet. Some clawed him and his wounds healed immediately.


    It will be torturous if it will continue like this so he devised a plan. With his angelic strength, he crushed the hands that are entangling him and used them as smashing weapons to the enemies. He smashed to the front and to the back and he is freed from the entanglement. With him freed, he falls down to the ground while smashing everything on his way.


    All his enemies are smashed and the Draculas are pondering what to do. The gargoyles that are made to a makeshift weapons have collapsed and Mael is dragging them slowly. Slowly approaching the enemies, he throws them to one of the Draculas and it is knocked away from them. All the Draculas turned to where their companion is and when they turned to Mael, he rained them with the flying corpses and they ate the catapult-like force of Mael.


    "Eat them!!!!!!", Mael bellowed in anger


    The Prime Dracula evaded like no tomorrow and his companions are struck down one by one. He shouted "Attack" but it''s too late when he was struck by a corpse of a gargoyle and blown away. With the help of the throwable corpses of gargoyles, the enemies are reduced to half and the others can''t stand up due to the fact that their bones are fractured.


    It was a time killer but the climax is still coming, with the Prime Dracula is struck by the corpse, he crushed the body that struck him and he is angered by it. He flew to the air and there he observed the battle, he then saw a flying object that is coming to him but this time, he smashed it by his hands. Mael observed that the Dracula is emitting an aura that can be felt by Mael even the distance thye have. It uses its skill called [Berserk].


    [Berserk]- a skill that makes the individual double their strength, dexterity, vitality, and battle instinct but lowers their defensive instincts.


    With its life is on its thirty percent, the skill activated. It is the last resort of the enemy to save his life and kill his enemy in front of him. Mael will have trouble regenerating if he is slashed continously and that is when his evade is not effective anymore. It will only become not effective if his stamina is exhausted, because every movement consumes stamina and strength is reduced if you are exhausted.


    His skill [Regeneration] is replenishing his stamina and he feels like he can do this all day. But sadly he has only few minutes left, with the time is reduced again, he has to hurry. With his enemy on a [Berserk] state, he has to kill it a few times. It would cost another minute to accomplish the task.


    With the enraged enemy, it attacked without a plan and strikes without reserve. It descended to him with its blood shot eyes colored with redness. Mael on the other aspect prepared to leap to intercept him.


    Without delays, he jumped with all his force towards the enemy. In the blank space distance between them, Mael made a piercing attack to the Dracula''s chest through its heart. With what his father told him, their only vulnerability is their heart. Well it will be confirmed if it''s true when Mael will see it with his own eyes on first hand.


    His hands penetrated through its chest and pierced his body throughout its back. With just his remaining strength he just spitted blood and scratched Mael''s back with its claws which eventually healed in seconds.


    While still in the air, they eventually crashed to the ground and Mael draws his blood stained hands from the lifeless corpse. With the death of their leader they all attacked furiously.


    The remaining Draculas can only be counted on the fingers on his hands and they are all enraged, with all of them enraged he will have to be extra careful.


    They all pounced to him driven by anger. With this in mind, Mael again relied in his evasion. One clawed him near his face but he twisted to evade then he kicked it with a reverse roundhouse kick, making it killed in action. Seven remains, while the other one is killed they attacked one after another. The one who approached is punched on the left side of the waist when it attempted to claw his face. Another one attacked in his blind spot but he received a back kick in the face, snapping its neck that nearly separating its head from its body.


    Three down, four remains on the battlefield. Mael this around initiate the offense, he pierced the air and instantaneously attacked the Dracula with an elbow strike in the face, it slammed to the ground then he grabbed it to throw to the other dracula. He jumped forward and then kicked the corpse towards the other one, slamming their body with each other.


    Only one remained, he walked calmly to the corpse filled grounds towards the direction of the remaining one. The monster screamed at him with all its might and it roared it the air with its loud voice.


    "Oh poor one! no one will save you but yourself, you have to be courageous until your last breath", Mael said as he streches his neck


    "Yeah all you have to do is scream", he said as he attacked it


    He decapitated it using his barehands and its scream is ended with its head rolling in the ground.


    "Hahahahah! Splendid! such cruelty from a human! hmmm let''s see if you can last till the end!", said the Fallen sitting at the floating chair while drinking another cup.


    Five minutes left and the remaining monsters are the towering trolls as large as a small hill. Whether he survives or not is depending on his abilities to slay them.


    All he needs to do is maul them and bruise them till they spit blood and all their bones are broken. The problem is their high vitality and thick skin and there are couple of hundreds of them.


    You have to possess a great Burst skill or Area of effect skill to whittle their numbers. But on the current event, Mael only has [Divine Strength] and [Regeneration] on his arsenal. Well he has no choice but to punch all of them.


    ''Barrrrbrbrbrbrbrnrbngbrbr!''


    The noise of dashing towering trolls are heard by the Angel and he has regained ample strength to sit and watch.


    ''All is in your hands young one''


    Mael is walking in the distance and he walks faster and faster then he dashed towards them.

 108 Mael Kelvins past part 7

    With the five minute time left, he is pressured to slay them with just bare hands. He needs to at least kill them by beating them hard with his [Divine Strength].


    He is currently dashing and then he jumped so high in the sky. With height he reached, he saw all the trolls and they are parading with great numbers. Some are carrying giant trees as a weapon and they can be seen even they are so far away.


    He estimated that their numbers are on three hundred to four. He still has ample time to think of an estimation of whether he can finish on time.


    While in the air, he is gliding in the wind and he is approaching them with ease. He is intercepting them in a matter of seconds but he saw that they are anticipating his coming in the air and readied their gigantic tree trunk that will serve as a bat.


    Mael worried if his premonition is true or not but he will find the answer later on. His speed is increasing as he descends faster in the air towards the enemies. As he is getting nearer and nearer, he saw that they are readying their weapons and as he is only in meters, the troll in the front prepared to swing it like a bat then he is struck by a gigantic tree that is larger than his body.


    He is smashed by it and he is thrown by thousands of meters away. He collapsed and he regained consciousness with a matter of two minutes left.


    ''What happened? where am I?''


    He stands up and realized that he is struck by a makeshift weapon of the Trolls but luckily he is still nowhere to be seen and the Trolls is still finding him in the forest where he is still hiding. Well, that means that the time is not still up.


    He saw that the Trolls are getting nearer as the ground is shaking by their footsteps. He is anxious because of the time wasted and he knew that his powers are still active. Without wasting time, he dashed and smashed the nearest Troll in the vicinity.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    He released three punches to the Troll in the face while some are alarmed where is the sound that is coming from. He puts more force in his punches to immediately kill them to save more time for the remaining two minutes.


    Luckily, the Troll is down with its face crushed by three punches but the downside is that his cover is blown. Well, it will be better for them to know. It is the plan exactly for him to defeat them in a faster way.


    The Trolls are alerted and started to throw large trees in his surroundings, he evaded the trees and punched some with his hands.


    Mael is enraged by the attacks then he dashed to the forest, leaving booming sound in the forest while destroying the trees when he passes through it with just the shock wave of his dash. He then saw trees incoming, flying in the sky that is coming in his direction.


    He reached the exit of the forest, faster than he expected. After it, he saw the trolls are gathering trees to make a makeshift weapon. With it being accomplished, the battle will be more bloody.


    "Two minutes, I will finish them in two minutes", he said as he counted the time that remains


    He managed to last in the past battle then why not now?


    He approached them in a fast but calm way then he jumped at the center of the fray.


    He learned from his mistake last time and then smashed the trees that strike him mid-air. The Trolls are surprised when he landed to the ground like a meteor. The shock wave and the dirt threw all over the place and the trolls are thrown over by the catastrophe.


    The terrain changed then a barrage of loud banging sounds echoed throughout the forest. He darted from one troll to another, only leaving caved-in faces and splattering innards upon its way. All of them are not retreating but instead, they dashed to where he is.


    He is smashed by one troll but he blocked it, making him thrown to the others. His stretched his body in a second then slammed his right foot on the ground. Making them lose their balance when the ground cracks.


    Mael then darted to five trolls, smashing them with only one hit and then jumped to the other part of the battle ground. These trolls are fast moving despite their big sizes but they are not regenerating, mountain trolls are sturdy and aggressive but they are not the ones living in the snow which have regeneration and fire susceptibility. Thus Mael concluded that these are mountain trolls.


    One minute and thirty seconds, he has consumed thirty minutes and he is still not halfway through.


    He has no choice but to make the same technique he used recently. Smashing the ground with his feet then the trolls lose their balance then its time to strike and move to other location for him to be not cornered. He continued his onslaught for the remaining time untill the last one remained.


    He is bloody and then he dashed but in his dismay, he has no strength left. He felt that his overwhelming powers are extinguished by the time when he has still one enemy left.


    "It can''t be! no! not now!", Mael cried out as he punched the ground.


    "Oh its already time? Hohohoho! I wonder how you will defeat that one without your petty powers! child!", the Fallen under estimated him this time


    The one he has feared the most has come and he has still more work to do. The troll mercilessly smashed Mael and the dirt flew all over.


    "Hahahahaha!, that''s all? as expected from a puny little child! hahahahah! wait what?", the Fallen the nearly choked after he saw a child that stopped the blow of the troll.


    The troll growled at him with a loud roar, Mael smiled and then walked calmly while stretching his body. Little did they know that he accumulated many experience points and leveled up to level fifty, every level up has a passive plus one point to all stats and all his stats; strength, dexterity, vitality and, focus is all fifty. That is the result of defeating one thousand monsters in a single night. Never mind the three stat points every level up he gets, so that means he has one hundred fifty points he can allocate when he will have his window card at the adventurers guild.


    Without second thoughts, he darted to the troll and pulled out its eyes and then flipped. The troll is thrashing around and is smashing everything all over the place. He grabbed the splintered tree and trusted it to the throat of the troll and it fell down.


    "It can''t be! for a mere child to play with a troll!", he chuckled but annoyed at the scene that unfolds


    "Okay you win! and in return, I will let you of the hook and as a reward, I will return the power of your Angel there as an insurance. Then let me tell you my name, I''m Ashtaroth! the servant of The Prideful one, the one who will conquer Lumia. Bye!", he said as he disappeared


    With just a flash, he disappeared and the Angel just burst forth with power and once again brimming with radiance.


    "Thank you young child, with what happened I''m saved because of you. As a result you are qualified to wield the system that the creator himself created to fight the calamity. This world is at stake and even with our help, the world is still in danger. You are one of the seven and find the others to defeat the Doom bringer; The Prideful One. He giveth power to the weak and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Farewell child and may you find the creator''s will in your path", he said as he disappeared without a trace


    The forest became silent and the wind blows a little bit colder as he wanders in the road. He managed to arrive on the city gates but his senses are fading then it all went dark.

 109 Mael Kelvins past part 8

    System rebooting...


    System reboot complete...


    Versatile System establishing a connection to the host...


    Connection complete...


    He was hearing a voice in his sleep and thus waked up.


    He waked up in the room full of beds but has no person around, not even one. He tried to stand up but his body is not cooperating.


    "Hello master, I''m Your System! please say the window to see your character", there is a floating window that he can see in his face and is telling him to say it.


    He is going to say it but there is someone coming. So he just pretended to sleep a little more, then the door opens. It was someone that has a full armor. A female to be exact.


    "Pretending to be asleep?", she said


    "You got me, how did you know?", he said


    "Not important, your name?", she asked


    "I''m Mael Kelvin, I''m from Shelkem village, please we really need help now, the monsters are flooding the village and there are dungeon gates that are unclosed", he said while holding the shoulder of her plated armor


    "Unfortunately, we are short of soldiers right now and we were also attacked by monsters. But we will send some patrol just in case. Better heal yourself first for the meantime.", she said lifelessly


    "Thank you but I will not wait for it, please at least give me a health potion.", he said


    She gave without second thoughts and Mael drank it.


    "Is that all? then I can leave", she said as she stands up


    She left the room and then he said, " window"


    The window floats then it appeared like this.


    ....


    CHARACTER


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age:13


    Character level: 50


    Title: Versatile system holder


    Job class: non-classed combatant


    Strength (50)


    - physical damage


    - critical damage


    Dexterity (50)


    - precision


    -attack speed


    -critical chance


    -evasion


    Vitality (50)


    -stamina


    -health


    -heath regen.


    -resistance


    Focus (50)


    -magic damage


    -mana


    -mana regen.


    -cast speed


    -cooldown reduction


    Free Stat points: 150


    Talents: Memories of the past


    A. genius evader


    B. Battle instincts


    Techniques:


    A. weapons


    swords (advance)


    spear (novice)


    bow (advance)


    dagger (newbie)


    two-handed (novice)


    B. unarmed


    offensive(advance)


    defensive(adept)


    ....


    Job class name: non-classed combatant


    Skill points: 50


    Job class level: 1


    Job class skills: 6


    -Masteries:?


    -Blink:?


    -Passive:?


    -Burst:?


    -Buff/debuff:?


    -AOE:?


    (Versatile System Holder)


    Effects: The user will have greater experience gain in any job class he will train on.


    ....


    He saw the window and was amazed, with the help of the system, he will achieve his dream of mastering all job classes.


    He packed his belongings and left by the window. With no help from the kingdom, he will have to do it alone. He jumped but activated the ring thus he disappeared. Leaving no traces of his presence.


    He then appeared at the teleportation circle of their house''s basement, he unpacks and saw at the enchanting table a letter. It is addressed to him and is the handwriting of his father.


    It says "Dear Mael, I''m sorry for what happened and don''t blame yourself. It''s all my fault for not protecting you all. There is a friend of mine and he is the lord of the Golden Valley, he said that we have a secret mission. As a father, I am very sorry for leaving you all alone thus I give you all authority to the basement. I left some money for you to enroll at Dwight academy and please read some books there, it will help you. Keep safe and always eat plenty for your growth, I know you''re still young but has a bright future ahead of you. Your loving father, Zak"


    Mael was stunned and he still has many problems currently: first is he needs to kill the monsters and close the dungeon gate, second is to enroll to the adventurers guild, third is save up money for school.


    He prepared his monster-killing quest, he equipped with just robes and sword, that''s all and a few potions. He is pretty confident in his abilities this time around.


    He scanned the house and there''s still a cooked food that is still hot at the kitchen. Seems like his father cooked for him while he''s gone. Mael ate the porridge and cleaned the dishes. The monsters called goblins are pretty loud outside and it irritates him while he is eating.


    Outside the house, he roams and saw that the monsters are gathering in the town square. He prepared the monster attractant he concocted in the alchemy table and spreads it to his sword.


    Seconds later, the goblins are all screeching and it is very alluring in their scent. They approached like a mad man without knowing the outcome of their actions.


    He is surrounded by the goblins, without even a hint of fear he grinned. The goblins are great at attacking when in packs and their strength is in their numbers.


    Mael stands in the center and is not moving. The goblins initiated the attack and together they pounced at him. Little did they know the result of their actions, Mael slashed them without moving from his footing. Anyone that attacked is slashed and he is just using one hand. Within minutes, he managed to kill them all.


    All their bodies are piled and are burned by him. He watched the smoke goes towards the sky then left for his next destination. In the desolate village, the dungeon gate is towering and is a sight to behold. Without second thoughts, he entered the dungeon gate.


    He is closing his eyes due to the bright light but his sight adjusted a bit. He saw that he is in the center of a forest and the forest floor has full of bones. He scanned the surroundings as it was full of blood at the entrance of their cave. The goblins dragged the bodies of their victims to be feasted upon in their tunnels. He is thirteen years old and he can fit in the tunnels but it is quite troublesome if he is ambushed and trapped in there. So the only solution is for them to come out by themselves outside where space is plenty.


    He broke two bottles of monster attractant outside of their caves and then waited. After a minute, he saw them running outside and then saw him.


    "Hi! wanna play?", he waved at them while sitting in the ground


    They all come to him running then Mael didn''t wait for them to come to him first. He dashed towards them and they are a hundred goblin strong.


    They attacked but Mael danced with his sword and went through them. Some attempted to corner him at the center but he strikes four different enemies without moving his feet. He wants to be at the center of the fray and initiates chaos.


    "Battle instinct triggered", the system announced in his head


    "He! no need to tell me", refuted Mael to the system


    He finished within a minute then he heard a loud roar. The ground trembles at its step and there''s a gut feeling that it''s the boss. He massaged his cheeks then said, "So you''ve showed, at last, Goblin Lord!"


    With the Boss angered, he will need to be extra careful.


    "I guess it''s time to get serious", he said as he licked his lips


    The goblin lord is the one who governs them and is ten times larger than normal goblins, with its weight exceeds a hundred kilograms, he will be a great toy to be played with.


    Mael became serious then dashed with all his might. The enemy will not even hold back a bit. All is poured out from their strike. The goblin lord strike with its giant club and Mael ducked then strikes with all his might to its legs.


    Shwooosh!


    The leg of the goblin lord was thrown when he cuts it from its body. Mael was surprised and disappointed as well as an extreme dissatisfaction. A mixed feeling of a person who wants a formidable battle but ends up being anti-climatic.


    "Did I became too strong?", he said in a panic


    He killed the boss and then it disappeared only lefts a stone. He scanned it and the system identified it at a glance. It is called "Magic stone of reversal", it will reverse your level back to level 1 while still retaining your stats.


    He used it and the stone glowed then disappeared. The system then announced that "You have successfully consumed the Stone, character level reverts to one and character stats retained"


    "Warning! the dungeon is closing", said the system


    He walks outside the dungeon because his system warned him that the dungeon is closing.


    After he closed the dungeon gate, he walked to the streets and the people are one by one coming out from their doors and walked the streets.


    Many of their loved ones died from the monster attack and they burned them, some are buried.


    Although he closed the dungeon, there is no time to rejoice but the people gave their time to weep for their loved ones. It lasted for a week to make the village normal again and he is not even known for what he did. All they thought that there is someone that killed the monsters but one of the heroes itself.

 110 Heltcliff falls

    Telling his tale to Kael was very relieving to his heart. Kelvin didn''t even spare to tell about the system. It shows that he fully trusts Kael to share even his deepest secrets. Kael looked at him and smiled.


    "Why didn''t you say earlier! I am also a system holder who was tasked to find the other system holders!", Kael said to him.


    Kelvin looked at him not knowing what to say.


    "Huh! you too? I didn''t expect it!", Kelvin said to him quite shocked.


    "Ah! At last! I have found one! Hahaha!", Kael said to him.


    "Let''s talk while walking. So you''ve seen the Angel and gave you the system?", Kael asked.


    "Yeah! That''s right! That''s why I am now this strong!", Kelvin said.


    "I am not really sure if it made me really strong but maybe in the future. I will be learning all the job class in the academy.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah, and it was exclusive in the academy. We will see what will happen later on.", Kelvin said.


    Marching in the road that was grassy. They paved the path towards the Heltcliff falls. Surrounded by trees in the river, Kael thought that the place was nice. The river was clean and there were leaves that fall in the river. Following the stream downwards. They were walking for an hour in that lively place. While there were chirping birds on the place and caws of the crows echoed in the distance. Flying as they detected Kael and Kelvin. Kael dipped his hands and it was freezing. Kelvin was just in his back, looking out in case of danger.


    "The water was freezing. The leaves fell off. It was signs of season changing. The birds were migrating as they looked for a place to breed. We are near the Falls. If you observe, the waterfalls'' sound was heard from here.", Kael said then pulled his hands on the water.


    "So we were near? Let''s hurry then.", Kelvin said then gets back to the way.


    Kelvin followed him to resume their travel. They marched on the way and saw a flock of bats in the sky. It was swarming the sky as they tried to catch flying insects in the sky. Kael was enjoying the sight of bats hovering and diving in the sky.


    "Look up there! There are bats!", Kelvin said.


    "Yeah I can see them!", Kael said.


    It was a wonderful sight to look at. From where they were standing, the sound of the falls was getting louder and louder.


    "See! We were near!", Kael said while pointing at the direction of the sound.


    "Let''s hurry up. I can''t wait to see what monsters are in there.", Kelvin said excitedly.


    "Okay okay I am walking faster here.", Kael said as he made his pace faster.


    They arrived at the place Kael felt disturbed. He looked at Kelvin who was in his armor.


    "Put on your helmet and let''s investigate the place.", Kael said to him.


    "Oh okay! So what do we do?", Kelvin asked him.


    Kelvin put on his helm and wondered why Kael was alerted. Kael pointed the tracks on the ground.


    "Look at the tracks. It was a crawling creature.", Kael said.


    "Snakes?", Kelvin said wondering.


    "Maybe, maybe not.", Kael said.


    Kelvin was now really wondering and was dumbstruck with his statement.


    "It was headed inside the falls.", Kael said when pointing the falls itself.


    "Let''s go. Be on your guard and draw your weapon.", Kael said to him.


    They went inside and Kelvin equipped his bow. Putting an arrow on the bow and was ready to shoot anytime. Kael draws his sword and was holding the hilt that has a handle. Making it a temporary shield and a sword in case of an offense. Marching at a steady pace and Kael was on guard. They entered the falls and water was poured on their backs. The water was heavy that it made them pushed down. Kael puts his weapon to his head and entered the dark hollow cave inside. He can hear every move inside the cave.


    Kael grabbed his floating lantern and lets it float up. Lighting the dark hollow cave. Kelvin saw it and was astonished by the object that was floating in the cave.


    "What is that thing? Does it really float? And it lights up?", Kael asked in his curiosity.


    Looking up while it gives it yellow radiance, Kelvin might want to touch it.


    "The light was talking to me.", Kelvin said.


    As he reached it, his hands were grabbed by Kael.


    "You don''t touch it. Focus now on focus. We don''t want to get ambushed here.", Kael said.


    Kelvin shakes his face and then was back to reality.


    "Sorry, I am distracted by the light. Where were we?", Kelvin asked.


    "We storm the enemy base and then kill them all. I don''t have a night vision skill for now thus I have difficulty in seeing in the dark.", Kael said.


    "Don''t worry about it. You are not the only one.", Kelvin replied to him.


    "Let''s go and investigate the cave. I have a bad feeling that this place was infested with monsters. I can smell the decay from here.", Kael said.


    Kael and Kelvin marched towards the darkness. The cave was made of rocky substance. The walls were hard as a rock and were moist. Stalactites and stalagmites were present on it. Some water was falling from above and they went further down. As they went down, there were skeletons in their broken armors and there were still hairs present.


    Kael crouched to examine the corpse in a closer look.


    "There were dead bodies here. His armor was smashed like it was glass. Must be inflicted by monsters. His ribcage was broken, making his lungs and heart pierced by his own bones.", Kael said to Kelvin in detail.


    "Wow, you were like an expert. Where did you learn that?", Kelvin asked.


    "Nah, not important. We might go deeper if we want to know who caused the death of this poor soul. This looks interesting. We might die like him if we were ambushed.", Kael said while crouching.


    "Well if you said that this armor is an artifact, then I might survive. Well, the problem is you don''t have armor.", Kelvin said to him worried.


    "I can handle myself. If we survive this, let''s go to the food stall and eat until full. But for now, let us at least know what monster is in this cave. There will be an additional prize for extermination. If we can handle the enemies that are on the scope of our killable targets. We might retreat if we can''t handle the situation. At least we investigated and leave it to the expert exterminators.", Kael said to him.


    "We should investigate more if we want to know the identity of the monster.", Kelvin said.


    "Yeah, let''s move further.", Kael said then stands up.


    They moved to the lower parts of the cave. With the floating lamp on their head, floating on the air as they were being followed. Kelvin was curious how it was invented so he asks Kael about it. His curiosity was on the verge of exploding, so he let it out.


    "Kael.", Kelvin said.


    Kael turned around to Kelvin and his eyebrows moved up.


    "What is it?", Kael asked him.


    "About the floating lamp. Where did you get it?", Kelvin asked him.


    "Oh, this? I invented it when I was young. I forgot what is my age at that time. But you see, I can explain it to you when we get back to the inn. For now, we focus on the mission.", Kael said.


    "Okay, Okay. But I want one. Kael please make me another one. Please...", Kelvin pleaded.


    "Okay but you know that would cost you. I will make another one if we get back.", Kael said to him.


    Kael and Kelvin went further to investigate. Looking at the floor, it has black stains of tracks and was large enough to fit both Kael and Kelvin inside it. It was large. This will be out of our skills to handle. Seeing the surroundings, the saw piles of bones and armors. Weapons were included on the pile.


    "Kael look!", Kelvin said in a low voice as he points at his back.


    He saw a tube of a hollow skin and its eyes were as big as a shield Kael has. It was the skin of an overgrown snake that has changed skin. Seeing its head as big as a carriage.


    "Kael, we have to retreat for now.", Kelvin said.


    "We would do that and in a very fast manner. Let''s hurry to get out the form here. Like right now.", Kael said to Kelvin.

 111 Heltcliff falls part 2

    They went inside the cavern inside the falls and unexpectedly knew that it was a cave of snakes. A monster of a gigantic size that was large enough to swallow a carriage whole. Marlin looked at its skin and it was as big as his shield. Its eyes shine as the floating lamp lit the darkness.


    "Their numbers were still unknown and I hope it was only one. Wait? What if it lay its eggs and have its babies?", Kelvin asked Kael.


    "Don''t know. But we will be its food if we won''t leave now.", Kelvin said.


    "Yeah!", Kael said.


    "The snakes were heat-sensing monsters. Its no use to sneak unless we can change our temperature. Vibrations were also heard by their ears. Not sure we can escape completely without being detected. At least be ready to fight anytime. An ambush will be possible.", Kael added.


    Kael was holding his sword on a shield mode and Kelvin was on his bow and ready to fire anytime. Watching the walls of the cave, they see a path towards the further darkness. Kael didn''t want to bite more than he can chew so he retreated. Keeping their pace fast but wary of the enemy. Running towards the exit was their goal. As they were running, they were panting in the cold caverns they were running to. Passing rocks and the other rock minerals present there. Panting while running, clanging armor, and a tense mind of wanting to live. It all combined into mixed feelings and emotions. Kael was not confident right now to face the enemy with that caliber. Well as for Kelvin, his armor will protect him.


    Dripping water was present and they saw that the passage was blocked by a rock. They were currently in a wide space but the passage was only as big as two carriages combined.


    "Damn! I am lost? We were not lost, are we? I am sure this is the way!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    Kelvin, on the contrary, looked closer. It was shiny and it glitter as the light was basked into it.


    "This sure doesn''t look like a rock to me.", Kelvin said as he approached.


    Kael sat to rest and when Kael heard what he say, Kelvin already touched it.


    "Don''t touch it!", Kael shouted but already late.


    "It was a snakeskin!", Kael said then went to grab his hands.


    Kelvin almost jumped as he realized it. Removing his hands from the skin.


    "Eh? Really?", he said as he looked closer.


    "Yeah! So don''t touch it. We''ve got a big problem and it was in front of us. The bigger problem was to exit here without poking that thing.", Kael said and points his sword to the snakeskin wall.


    "Yeah, we don''t have other known exits for now. You want to turn around and find a better way?", Kelvin suggested.


    "Yeah! Anything just not like this one.", Kael said to Kelvin. Pointing again the wall snake-skin.


    Craaaaaaaaaaaacccccckkkkkkkk!!!


    Kael and Kelvin felt their hairs went up as they slowly turned around. Luckily, it stopped moving and was still blocking the exit.


    "It would pose a problem for us if we will be fighting that one. I think it was out in the jungle. Finding something to eat when it returned home and digests its food. We don''t have to disturb its sleep.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah right! We were not even an opponent compared to it.", Kelvin said.


    "Let''s walk towards the other end of the tunnel. But let''s be careful of small ones because it has a possibility that it has babies here.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Pretty sure that it has babies though but not so sure if we can combat them.", Kelvin said to Kael worriedly.


    "I have encountered trolls and Goblins but I''m not sure if I can pierce its scales. That big snake has thick scales that as hard as steel. My weapon will be effective only if I will make it deal blunt damage. I can increase its weight but we need to be extra careful here. I might go full force with that enemy and still not knowing if I will make it out alive. Well, I have other ways and means to survive. Just don''t know if it was worth it. Thinking of it tires me out.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    Kelvin was astonished by this person he was with. He didn''t know what capacity he has but he knows that he was capable of solo missions. If he compares himself to him, he lacks a tenacious personality. He was fierce but Kael was far more tenacious, like an adept killer. Kelvin can feel it and he can see that he hides his aura. With the fact that he was not revealing all his skills to him. It was still on the level of getting to know him but has deep bond already.


    "Kael, what level are you now?", Kelvin asked in a whim.


    They walked and Kael was in the front. Kael stopped walking after he heard his question.


    "Twenty-five", Kael said not facing him.


    .....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank E+


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 25


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (40) +


    Dexterity (44) +


    Vitality (45) +


    Focus (95) +


    Stats points: 75


    ....


    "As you can see.....I save my points for the future. Now knowing what will happen if I''ve invested in the wrong stat. I am afraid that it will be the end of my life. Knowing that, I am saving for the worst.", Kael said while he was being followed by Kelvin.


    Kael stopped walking and lifted his hands. Ushering him with body language to stop moving. Kelvin observed and saw a tail of a medium-sized snake but it was like the size of an anaconda. In the corner of the tunnel that goes left, its tail was coming out of the intersection. A place that was still dark and their floating lamp can''t light it up. Kael ushered him to step back and avoid confrontation but as Kelvin turned around, he saw another anaconda-like snake on their back. It has brown skin with spots of black in it.


    Kael steps back but he collided with Kelvin. As Kael looked around, he saw the snake was looking at them. Kelvin was also looking at it but he was so tense when he was drawing his bow.


    "We were blocked on both sides.", Kael said to Kelvin followed by gulping his saliva.


    The one Kael was looking at in his front has shown its head and looked at them.


    "If these things will attack us, then we will retaliate. I don''t want to anger the mother by slaughtering its kids.", Kael said.


    One of the anacondas who Kelvin faces, burst at them and launched to bite Kelvin. Kael wanted to help him but the other anaconda pulled him to his feet by its tail.


    "Whoa! Kelvin!", Kael shouted as he was pulled by it.


    Kelvin was left and his lantern followed the owner which was Kael. Making Kelvin left out in the dark together with the anaconda. Kael was being squeezed by the snake on the feet and belly but he has the shield that he has was holding thus it made his breath a bit and the squeeze was only on his back. He held his shield and prepared his enchanting.


    [Enchant: Corrosion]


    The weapon was like an acid making its skin melt.


    [Enchant: Lighting]


    The weapon bursts out with lightning and the snake was on constant damage.


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    The weapon became heavier and the snake was squashed by its weight.


    [Enchant: Life drain]


    The snake was constantly sucked with its life force and health.


    He enchants the weapon he has and the snake was screeching to the pain. All enchantments were stacked and constantly dealing with damage. Kael expected it to loosen up but instead, it tightened its grip with him.


    "You want to contest it out huh? Let''s see if you can endure this!", Kael shouted.


    [Enchant: Increase strength]


    Kael struggled to break free from its death squeeze. If Kael estimates it, the anaconda has more than a hundred points when it comes to strength. If he estimates it, it can easily squeeze the carriage and crumple it down like paper. Kael was squeezed slowly and it was getting tighter by every second. It was getting difficult to breathe and Kael was painfully enduring it. It was the case with Kael but Kael didn''t lose hope but he grabbed his dagger in his sheath. He has ample space to get his dagger because of his shield and using his strength buff from his enchantment. He enchants corrosion and then stabbed it to the skin of the anaconda.

 112 Heltcliff falls part 3

    Marlin was struggling with his enemy. Choking him with a hundred points of strength stats. Stabbing the skin of the anaconda with his dagger.


    "Urrrrrgggggg It''s so tight! Damn! I didn''t expect to be attacked in the back.", Kael said to himself.


    Trusting the dagger, the snake wailed as its steel-like skin was pierced with corrosion enchanted dagger. With the strength buff he has, he was able to bring out one of his hands to stab the enemy. Stabbing and stabbing with all his might. Not wanting his enemy to enjoy its hug to him. He added poison enchantment to his dagger and its skin and flesh were corroded by the potency of the enchantment combination. Being able to stack his enchantments were pretty handy to Kael. Being a master enchanter was pretty handy in impromptu fights and Kael was clever enough what to enchant to his weapon in the specific situation or predicament. Dealing more damage to the snake until its flesh was unrecognizable. Holes were present on its skin and the corrosion was not stopping. Eating away its flesh and it was not stopping.


    The snake can''t hold on any longer and then let go of its death squeeze. Kael gained a chance so he immediately used his sword. Even with its weight increased with enchantment, it was bearable to Kael.


    "I won''t leave you unscathed for doing that to me. Killing you was the least I can do. At least for making me experience your hug. That is.", he said confidently.


    He dashed to the snake and it was lifting its upper part. Standing like a cobra. He looked up and saw its majestic body. Scales were shining with the light he has and shrieked with anger. Kael was looking at its large body unfazed.


    "At least I have to hurry to kill this snake and see if Kelvin was okay. What are you waiting for? Attack me!", he shouted to the snake.


    Kael was getting impatient with the enemy. Worrying about his friend that was also in a tough spot like him. Thinking that Kelvin was in the darkness for the moment makes Kael irritated and was getting impatient. Worrying for others was not a thing for him in the past. It was because certain relationships were formed to Kelvin. To the point of sharing secrets. Kelvin even trusted him with his secret and told him about the system he had. He trusts him deeply even they haven''t known him for long. He was like a brother now with Kael. He didn''t realize it until he was separated from him.


    He was attacked by the reptilian beast with its mouth opened wide. Making a big bite that was coming for him. Kael held his sword with two hands and rotated counterclockwise. Gaining inertia and force to block the enemy. The snake bites him but Kael slammed it to its head. Piercing the thick scales it was proud of.


    He held again his sword and waited for the enemy to strike him. The enemy was now thrashing all over and then launched an attack on Kael. Crawling in a very fast movement and was coming for him. It just passed him by but went to grab his foot. Kael was wary of another death hug so he summersaults in the air. Looking at the snake from above. In split second, the snake looked around and then looked up. It curled itself like a spring and strikes with a bite. Opening its mouth to bite him.


    Kael on the contrary expected its strike. Being in the air was like being a vulnerable target. Kael can not easily evade while mid-air so he rotated while holding the sword with two hands. The snake opened its mouth and Kael aimed for the flesh inside. The insides of the snakes were more vulnerable because it was made of flesh and not scales.


    Gaining a lot of force, Kael twisted for two more rotations. The enemy on the contrary was very fast and Kael used his rotation to meet the enemy. Using the speed of the snake against itself. At the right time, the snake was in his front and he used all the force he gathered. Slashing the mouth to the belly while rotating.


    Swish!


    He flicked the sword and the blood spattered to the floor.


    "That''s what you get for messing up with me.", Kael said confidently.


    Looking at his mess, he immediately remembered Kelvin. He runs towards his direction and was followed by the floating lamp. He was panicking and imagining what would happen if he will die. Kael did not accept the fact that he left him there in the dark and was partly blaming himself. Also blaming the snake in the passage for making their mission a lot more complex than before. He runs fast and saw the intersection they have been separated. His stomach churns from the worry he was feeling.


    Making bad decisions was normal but he didn''t expect it to be so bad that may cost the life of his new friend or partner. Looking at the snake that attacked Kelvin, he saw a bloated snake resting in the side of the walls. Sticking its tongue out to sense the enemy. Unfortunately, it has already eaten Kelvin whole.


    It made his heart sank and was pierced with sadness. It made a hole in his heart and refused to believe that he was eaten. Kael''s face was paralyzed and his body was frozen. His legs went limp and his knee smashed the floor.


    "Noooooo!!!", Kael shouted.


    "It was my fault! Gad damn it! I promised him to eat in the food stalls later if we survive this.", Kael murmured in his self.


    He froze there but in seconds, he looked at the snake and it was gone.


    "Wait! Shit! At least I will carry him home and make him a proper burial. I will find you!", Kael said while cursing to the snake.


    He dashed to follow the tracks and it was a different passage where they didn''t find out up until now. The passage was not easily seen and they didn''t discover yet. In their first enter, it was a place that was hidden in the shadows. Kael felt dismayed in his self for his incompetence. He didn''t think that it was a very dangerous mission in the first place.


    "Well what is done, is done. I can''t go back in time and I don''t have the powers to do it. I only have to do is move forward. And that is to follow that gad damn snake. I''m pretty sure it was weakened because it ate a chunk of metal.", Kael said.


    Kael felt that what he said was off. It was so off that he didn''t notice it before.


    "Wait metal? I hope my hunch was right but it was only a hypothesis. If that armor of his was as good as an artifact then I can assume that he was still intact inside the armor. The only problem was, there''s no ventilation inside the body of the snake. Oh my gad! He will run out of air! Damn, I have to hurry!", Kael said.


    He was reignited with hope but another problem has resurfaced. All he could do was cling on his thread of hope that has a high chance of being severed later on. All hope was lost but he found what has slipped from his grasp. And he will never again let go from that grasp on that thread of hope.


    "Kelvin hang on tight. I am coming.", He said with eyes brimming of determination.


    He went to the caverns in which it has many turns and twists. He felt more desperate as time goes by. Thinking that the clock was ticking every time and he was holding his breath there. He was walking in the way just following the path. He saw the snake was struggling to crawl as it has a very big belly. It looked back to Kael but it burst on the way towards the dark. Kael felt irritated as he was taken aback by its escape.


    "Hey where are you going!?", He shouted.


    Kael dashed to the enemy but he hesitated. He saw two more anacondas who were flicking their tongue. Looking at Kael with their shiny eyes. He looked back and saw more of their kin surrounding him. All were brown and were flicking their tongues out. Some were standing, others were crawling. They were as big as the water pipes in the sewers.


    "I am just getting the body of my friend whom I didn''t know if he was dead or not! I will kill all of you if you will block my path.", Kael said pointing his sword to the snake.

 113 Heltcliff falls part 4

    Kael was faced with reality. As time goes by, Kelvin will be in greater danger. He was surrounded with anaconda-like snakes and was looming in the cave. Looking down at him. Some of them were crawling on the ground. They have found their prey which was just in front of them.


    "One....two....three.....four....five....six....seven. They were seven in total. I have to be careful if I want to live. Dodging them will be tricky and I don''t know if that will be effective. Their skin was hard as steel, but inside? Well, it was soft as a lump of flesh. Bashing damage will also be damaging. Let''s try anything that comes to mind.", Kael said to himself.


    The snakes hissed and were getting ready to attack. Kael held his sword and focused with all he got. The snakes were preparing to launch a full attack on all sides. Some of them coiled and was gathering force like a spring. Kael enchants his sword with all the damage he has in his arsenal and readies to counter. With him being surrounded, he was left with no choice but to counter them.


    [Enchant: Fire damage]


    [Enchant: Lightning damage]


    [Enchant: Poison damage]


    [Enchant: Ice damage]


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    [Enchant: Increase speed]


    [Enchant: Shock wave damage]


    [Enchant: Increase durability]


    He used the enchantments he knows that would be the best in that kind of situation. The snakes hisses again and launched their attacks. Darting with their mouth opened.


    Kael saw it and he twisted and turned. With all the enchantments, he has put to it to his sword to act as a support. He used all his might to rotate. Making wind gushed from his rotation. In split seconds, the snakes attacked with their mouth open wide. Kael anticipated their attacks, slashed the one who reached him first.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    The metallic banging was heard from his sword as it countered their attacks. He smashed them with all he got and all their attacks were diverted to the walls. Making another bang when they hit the walls. It was so loud that the cave shuddered and vibrated from the sound only. Kael was able to fend them off but the recoil from that attack was very heavy.


    He nearly let go of the weapon and puts it to the ground. Shaking his hands to the pain.


    "Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! It was very heavy and they were very big. Looking at it. Some of them were slashed in the mouth. Others were hit in the side but their brains were shaken. I don''t know if they will survive that hits.", Kael said while looking at them.


    "One.....two.....three.....four. So only four were left huh? That was sad, your siblings died without putting a fight.", Kael said to them.


    Some of them were still dizzy but still launched an attack on Kael.


    Scccccccaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh!!!


    They hissed to Kael in great anger. Avenging their brothers and sisters was what was on their mind and it resulted in them going berserk. When berserk, their instinct was only to kill and just to kill.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Kael jumped as they dived down to him. Their precision was off because they were still dizzy. Still suffering from the damage that Kael had inflicted.


    "The shock wave damage was the one who made their senses hindered. Due to their ears senses, vibrations and the vibrations were sent to their brain to be processed. They were dealt with too many vibrations that caused them to be confused.", Kael said so in his self.


    He landed on the solid floor and slammed his sword to the ground. Making it spark to the lightning damage, explode to the fire damage, and as well as freezing the ground. It was also emitting vibrations that were from the shock wave damage.


    Seeing it all, the snakes again launched their attacks to his direction. Kael was preparing for their attacks and didn''t plan to evade this time. He walks towards them and one by one, he slammed his sword to their faces. Making them explode and sparked at the same time, making them propelled to another direction.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    They all smashed to the walls behind him. He looked at them and he was attacked again with their mouths.


    "Going berserk was making them immune to the pain and makes them get going even though the pain was stiffening. Gotta use my trump card.", Kael said.


    He was struck with a problem and was planning it to solve it immediately.


    "Kelvin was waiting for me and I can''t just play around here.", Kael thought.


    He enchants his weapon with his trump card.


    [Enchant: Sharpness]


    He used his enchantment and felt that he lost a great amount of mana. It uses tantamount mana due to its ability to cut even the hardest steel. A bland name of enchantment but in its highest form was called "Diamond cutter".


    Haaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!!!


    Marlin shouted as he darted to them and they went to get him. Hissing loudly as they attacked him. Kael slashed the mouth of the snake and its blade was like slicing butter. He didn''t even felt resistance from the cut. The snake''s body was just sliding in his sword and was cut to half. Finishing the enemy with just one slice. He was attacked with the others. Not even sparing him time to breathe.


    "Come and get me!", Kael bellowed in anger.


    He was attacked from both sides. One from the left and one from the right. He swings his sword to his left, making the mouth of the snake to be cut. And then, to his right. Rotating as he both cuts them. The blood of the snakes splattered to the ground and it was painting the floor with red. Kael saw only one left and it saw that he was the only one left.


    Kael was not in the mood to let it go so he darted towards it. The snake hissed towards him with a loud hiss but Kael didn''t let it made its death to be painful.


    Whoosh!


    Its head was decapitated and its body slammed to the floor. Making its head fall first.


    "Ha, ha, ha, ha. That was close. I thought it would escape me and report to its mother. I better move now and find that snake who swallowed Kelvin. Maybe he was struggling to breathe now. Damn! That snakes made me lose precious time. Gotta hurry up fast!", Kael said while running towards the direction of the snake who swallowed Kelvin.


    Kelvin was running and he was deeply worried about the wasted time he has spent eliminating the snakes. He nearly cursed himself for his incompetence. Dashing while he was being lighted with his floating lamp, he was panting and running not knowing where to go.


    "Damn it, Kelvin! Why did you make yourself become food? I hope my armor will protect you. I hope you are still alive. I hope you are fighting to live right now. Don''t worry, I am coming. I will let you out there and carry you home. Let''s eat ramen like we used to.", Kael said while he was running.


    He was running and panting in the dark. He saw a cliff that separated the way. He went back a bit and dashed with all he could. He jumped from the cliff and reached the other side of the passage. He went further and can already see skulls an bones from undistinguishable animals. Some were of horses, some were of dogs, some were of humans and some were of crocodiles. Other bones were of an ape but it has canines.


    "Perhaps an orc or a young troll. These bones were littered here, some were hairs and armors of adventurers. Just how many died here and went missing until this day? Gotta hurry or I will be late. Not wanna regret this time. And I will save him for sure.", Kael said while hurrying to walk.


    After a minute of walking running to the tunnel. He passed by many bones and skins of snakes. It was making him feel uneasy but vigilant of what might attack him in that tunnels. Just several meters from where he was standing, he saw a curling reptile that has brown scales in it. It was hibernating and was digesting its newly eaten food. Kael thinking of it, he hastily approached the snake while sneaking and decapitated it.


    Whoosh!


    It died without knowing who took off its head.

 114 Heltcliff falls part 5

    Kael immediately killed the snake without letting it suffer. Because it was digesting its prey and was weakened temporarily. Kael then sliced the snake using his sword. With the effects of sharpness enchantment and increased durability, he managed to slice the belly of the brown snake. Being shined brightly by the floating lantern, he dissected the beast with his tool.


    Swish!


    The armored Kelvin went out from the belly and it thumped the ground. Sounding the metal armor on the floor.


    Kelvin! Kelvin! Do you hear me?", Kael asked but he was not responding.


    He panicked and removed the helmet. He saw Kelvin lifelessly laying down on the floor and was not breathing. Kael checked his pulse but it was not palpitating. Kael felt that he was still warm but not breathing.


    "Kelvin! Kelvin! Stay with me! I am sorry for leaving you there. I''m sorry for my incompetence! I left you out in that darkness without light. Gosh! I wish I didn''t choose this mission. I deeply regretted it! So please! Wake up!", Kael said in a lonely voice.


    He felt that his heart once again being crushed. Not knowing what to do. He tried to do what he can by reviving him. Tears fell from his cheeks and he was whimpering by looking at his new friend. It was not so long that they knew each other but he was the truest friend to him. Treating him like a brother was what made Kael feel more pain as he cherished him. He was thinking of reviving him but he didn''t know what to do. He was panicking and was thinking about what to do.


    "Got damn it! Kelvin! I will revive you for sure! Wait? Reviving! The revival stone!", Kael said.


    "Haha! Wait for me, Kelvin! I will revive you shortly!", he said sadly and then he grabbed the stone of revival on his bag.


    He saw the glowing stone glow and he puts it to Kelvin''s heart. Just a second later, his heart started to pump. Kelvin then inhaled deeply and opened his eyes.


    "Wait! Where am I?", Kelvin said shockingly.


    He was baffled by the floating light that he was looking at.


    "The snake! Where is the snake!", he shouted.


    Kael burst out in joy and he was really happy to see him talking.


    "Got damn it, Kelvin! He was dead! It was dead Kelvin! Why did you let yourself be beaten easily by a snake? It took me to kill them all just to get you outside from the belly!", Kael said to him.


    "Hahahahaha! Sorry! I just can''t move that is. And it swallowed me. I fought back but I was only punching the air as my weapon was dropped.", Kelvin explained.


    "Damn! Did they get you that badly? Well at least bring a dagger inside it next time and stab it nonstop. Did you get that? Wait? Where are the two daggers that I gave you?", Kael asked him wondering what happened.


    "Eh? It''s that cunning that all my weapons were all discarded?", Kael asked.


    "Yeah! And it bites off my head but because I have my armor, it only swallowed me. I am inside but punching its flesh made it weakened. Making it uncomfortable was the only thing I can do. But well, thanks!", Kelvin said to him.


    Kelvin offered his fist and Kael looked at it. Kael bumped his fist to Kelvin.


    "Friends forever?", Kael asked him.


    "Yeah! Friends forever!", Kelvin replied.


    "Thinking of it, we were tasked to assemble the system holders. Don''t you die halfway when we were yet to see them.", Kael as to him seriously.


    "Yeah, I''m sorry! I''m sorry!", Kelvin said.


    "We need to act fast and move now. The mother will be coming if we were to be staying here. I don''t want you to be eaten again. For sure, if you will be eaten by that mother. You will surely die. I don''t have another revival stone right now. You''ve made me use it and it was precious. Well it was for this situation and its sole purpose was to revive persons on a deathbed.", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah, you are right. I will keep it in mind.", Kelvin said to him agreeing.


    I think you need to be wary of the mother. It was ten times stronger compared to the babies right now. It was ten times larger than the ones that we have encountered. Make sure you don''t drop the weapons in the future. Okay!", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah yeah! It won''t happen again. I''ve learned my lesson.", Kelvin said to him.


    "You don''t dare do it again. I won''t save you anymore if that happened again. But still, its good for you to be back.", Kael said to him and pats his shoulders.


    "Let''s leave this place and eat anything you like. You want some grilled pork?", Kael asked him.


    "Yeah! Let''s eat it with pork broth and grape juice.", Kelvin said.


    "Hmmm...hmmm. And eat barbeques in the barbeque stalls. Might as well eat it all. Do you want anything else?", Kael asked him.


    "Let''s eat and then sleep in the inn early. I am itching to go home right now.", Kelvin said to him.


    He was scratching his head and he stands up. Kael and Kelvin stand up minding that they have to go home. They resumed walking towards the exit where the passage was blocked. Traveling to the exit with their floating lantern. They saw stalactites and stalagmites in the cave and different stone formations of minerals. They were walking while talking with each other on the way.


    "I think it was night time right now on the outside. We will be chased by it if we were seen.", Kelvin said to him worriedly.


    "You mean the mother? It might be better to be chased than to be trapped here with her. You might wanna ask what class is it? It was an A¨C. On par with wyrms or baby dragons. Let''s consider ourselves elite adventurers but I am still a newbie combatant. I fear even master-level techniques were not able to hurt it. When I have a job class, then it will be a different situation. Let''s just hope that we were far enough to the mother before it discovers its babies slaughtered.", Kael said to him.


    Kelvin was impressed with Kael''s knowledge. He was able to see the possibilities but it made him worried that they have a little chance of winning with the enemy. He was thinking of a plan for them to be undetected and was thinking of bathing with sense hindering potion. Even Kelvin knows the alchemy. It will only not make them be sensed from afar but the floating lantern was a thing that was emitting light and heat.


    "Kael let''s pour ourselves with sense hindering potion just in case. But the light was emitting heat.", Kelvin said to him worriedly.


    "Okay we will pour sense hindering potion to ourselves but once the floating lantern was detected. It will be an all-out brawl.", Kael suggested.


    "Okay okay! Let''s pour it out to ourselves.", Kelvin said.


    They poured it to themselves and resumed traveling. With the sense hindering potion poured, they will be safe for now. It was only hindering the sense of the snake for the farther location. The effect will only be effective if the mother snake was far from them and if it was near, it will detect the light source of Kael and Kelvin.


    Walking in the tunnels with light, they marched in the cave. They arrived at the cliff with many bones. Kelvin didn''t know how did he come there and Kael was showing the way.


    "Did we passed here? Just how did that snake jump from the other side?", Kelvin asked Kelvin.


    "I don''t know how but maybe it has another way that was hidden. I don''t know where but I have discovered one and came here. That''s how I got here when I followed the snake.", Kael said to him.


    "Oh okay! Let''s cross this cliff first!", Kelvin said to Kael.


    They jumped to the other side of the cliff and made it to the other side without falling. They resumed traveling to the caverns and was feeling air touching their skin.


    "This is the right way. Let''s just follow the tunnel. Maybe the snake mother has removed its body to the passage and was finding its prey.", Kael said.


    Kelvin gulped his saliva and resumed traveling. They found the exit of the tunnel and has found that the passage that was blocked was now open.


    "We can go home now! Yes! The mother has removed its blockage and we can go home now.", Kelvin said to Kael.


    Right after he said it, a loud shriek was heard from the depths of the cave.


    Shhhhhhrrrrrrrriiiiiieeeeeeeeecccccckkkk!!!

 115 Heltcliff falls part 6

    Shhhhhhrrrrrrriiiiiiieeeeeeeekkkkkkk!!!


    Kael and Kelvin''s skin hairs went up as they heard the loud shriek of the snake. They looked back and stared at each other. Without a waste of time, their instinct acted and they blasted running towards the exit.


    "Kelvin run! As fast as you could!", Kael shouted to him.


    "Yes yes! I''m running! I''m running!", Kelvin shouted to him.


    Kelvin was running but he looked back when he heard rumbling sounds coming from their back.


    "Don''t look back Kelvin and just run!", Kael said to him.


    "Kael, maybe it will hunt us down till we were found. We killed its children in the first place! So it will avenge their death.", Kelvin explained.


    "It blocked the exit in the first place! What do you think we would do? Sit here and let her eat us?", Kael shouted.


    "No, not of course! At least let us beat her.", Kelvin said.


    "And how do we do that? You were swallowed by its baby in the first place! And now you want to face the mother?", Kael said irritatingly.


    "Oh yeah! You''re right! But how do we escape its speed? We will get chased for who knows how long!". Kelvin said to him.


    "Hmmm, you''ve got a point! But we will be at disadvantaged here inside its lair. At least outside where we can fight all out.", Kael said.


    They were running as fast as they could. Without a hint of second thoughts about what they were doing. Kelvin''s armor was clanging but he has speed like of Kael. Who were not using armor. He has enchanted his boots with haste and Kelvin''s armor was also not losing against its speed. Following the passage they were running through, they can feel the air was coming from the farther away. Thinking of it, it was a sign that they were nearing the exit.


    Even though their speed was fast, the rumbling sound from their backs was getting louder and louder. As they were running towards the exit, they heard another shrieking sound.


    Shhhhhrrrrrrriiiiiiiieeeeeeeekkkkk!!!


    A shriek that was much louder than before.


    "Kelvin it''s getting closer! Closer than before!", Kael shouted.


    "I will hold it off but you need to run!", Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Don''t you dare do that! I will kill you myself if you wanna play the hero! I wasted a revival stone for Pete''s sake and you will do that?!", Kael shouted.


    "Okay okay! I will survive! Jeez, I can''t joke on you.", Kelvin said.


    "It was the worst joke in this type of situation! I will surely get you beaten later on!", Kael shouted.


    "Hahaha!!! You sure will!!!", Kelvin said to him.


    They ended their talking as the sound of the snake was just behind them.


    Sssssshhhhhhhiiiiiisssssssssshhhhhhh!!!


    Pppppsssssiiiiiisssssshhhhh!!!


    "Poison gas! Don''t inhale it!", Kael shouted.


    "Go! Go! Go! Run!", Kelvin shouted.


    They went running and can hear the sound of falls were just in the distance.


    Ppppssssssiiiiiiiiiiissssshhhhh!!!


    "Hurry up Kelvin! We were near!", Kael shouted.


    They went running and the snake pounced at them.


    Bang!


    Rubbles were all over the place as it slammed its mouth to the tunnel walls. Making Kelvin thrown to the force. Luckily, he evaded in hair''s breadth but he rolled over after he evaded. Kael was shocked by the process.


    "Kelvin! Run!", Kael shouted.


    The snake lifted again its head and looked at them. It was looking at Kelvin and was readying itself to launch again its attack. Kael felt alarmed by it and he wants to divert its attention.


    "Hey! Over here! Snaky!", Kael was grabbing the snake''s attention.


    He slammed the sword to the ground and it sparked, exploded, and vibrated. Making the sense of the snake to be distracted. It looked at Kael and it ignored Kelvin on the process. Kael removed the enchantment of increased weight and enchanted weightlessness on all his weights and weapon.


    "Over here snaky snaky", Kael shouted as he kept pounding his sword to the ground.


    Shhhhhrrrrriiiieeeekkkkk!!!


    It bellowed a deafening sound, making both of their ears hurt. It crawled to the ground and was after Kael.


    "Good! Good! Now follow me!", Kael shouted.


    It crawled and its scales were crackling on the rocky surface. Kael dashed towards the exit and saw the water of the falls descending from the top. Kael runs towards it and he was chased by the terrifyingly fast enemy. Despite its very large body, it was as quick as its babies. Kelvin was shocked by the process and was left by the two. He was feeling dizzy as he accidentally bumped his head on the rock as he evaded the attack of the large reptile.


    "Kael! What are doing!", Kelvin bellowed.


    The two of them exited the cave and he was left alone there in the dark. He crawled and then felt that the effect of the armor''s enchantments was healing him. It had health recovery in it so he was slowly healing. Despite it all, he was feeling great pain in his heart. He can''t accept that he was saved again.


    "Damn Kael! Don''t you die! You said that you will treat me with food!", Kelvin shouted.


    He was standing up and was regaining strength. Without delays, he dashed to the exit and felt the water rushed in his back. Feeling its coldness, he exited the cave and saw that it was silent outside. As the sky was being danced upon by the stars, he looked at their flickering radiance. The moon was on its crescent and the crickets cried with their songs. Kelvin felt lonely as he shouted for Kael''s name.


    "Kael!!!", he bellowed with all his might.


    He grabbed the wood on the campfire and poured wrapped it with a cloth. After it, he poured oil and lighted it with his flint. Sparks were emitted from the flint and it was enough to light it up. He grabbed the wood and he lighted up his way. He didn''t know where Kael was nor the snake. All he could hear was the crickets'' loud sound.


    He ran desperately to the night as he made a torch. Following the way from where they have paved in the past. Running in the night as he was holding his torch. He was beside the river and the trees were rustling their leaves as the wind passes them by. Wolves were howling and howls of deers were reverberating the surroundings. The leaves were seen by the torch''s light as they fell towards the river. On the other side of the river, some wolves can''t cross due to them being afraid of water. They definitely can''t swim towards the other side. They can only growl on Kelvin.


    He was panting in the process after running for an hour. Just up ahead was an encampment of the miners and he requested help. He saw a guard of the miners and has a big bulky build. He approached him for a chance of being helped.


    "Please help my friend who was chased by the mother snake! Please I beg you!", Kelvin asked him.


    Despite Kelvin knows that they were just a bunch of miners guards, he asked them. He was desperate to save his friend.


    "Are you crazy? We were miners! Not a gad damn adventurers! Go away!", said the one who he asked.


    He asked them but he was only being told to go away. He was left with another thought to go to the adventurers guild. All he can hope was he was still alive. Knowing that the adventurers will surely help was on his mind so he went away towards the capital. Running again in the night and was holding his torch. The road was clear and Kelvin''s stamina was greatly replenished by the stamina regeneration that his armor has. He went running without resting and paved the road towards the capital. He can feel the chilly breeze of the air and it was sounding with whooshing sound when it was touching the trees. His armor was also being touched and can feel the air go inside his armor''s gaps.


    He was tirelessly running to the woods and was a live target of wolves. He can fend them off but it will be wasting his time. He hoped that Kael will survive this predicament but it was the mother snake that they were talking about. A great defense and great health. Possessing it both and has a poison breath will make Kael go to his limits. He will run out of potions and he needs back up. It was what Kelvin''s thoughts so he didn''t recklessly follow Kael. It would only make Kael''s efforts to be wasted.


    He dashed and was breathing out steamy air. Without delays and without wasting time.

 116 Kaels decoy

    "Kael!", Kelvin shouted.


    Kael dashed towards the exit of the cave and run through the running water. With his decoy, Kelvin was safe. He dashed and exited the falls while hurrying. He passed the pouring water from above the waterfalls. Feeling the cold water run through his body.


    Shhhhhiiiieeekkkkk!!!


    The mother snake shrieked on his back and it pounced him. Kael evaded it by side-stepping and dashed into the woods. With his floating lamp on hand, he was lighting up the way. Running without looking back as the snake''s scales crackles as it was rubbing its scales to the rocks and hard surfaces. Kael was on his top speed and with his increased speed enchantment, he can maneuver in the trees with great speed. He was jumping from trunk to trunk to confuse the snake mother.


    He was like a fish in the water. Running on the woods and evading the strikes of the snake. The upgrown roots were also making his running difficult but it didn''t hinder his movements.


    Bang!


    Another strike was launched at him and was evaded. Striking the trees in the process. Cracking sounds were heard as the trees went down. The trees went crashing towards him and he desperately evaded it. The snake was having a hard time because of its big body. The trees were crowded and it has to run through them. Making use of the trees was his plan to make the snake have a hard time.


    Shhhrrriiieeeekkkkkk!!!


    It bellowed again in anger. From his back, he can still hear the sound of its hissing. Kael thought that he has to gain a distance so it will not immediately go back to the cave where Kelvin was located. Keeping the snake preoccupied for the time being and he was killing the time in case some help will come. But looking at the situation he was in, he will be getting help from higher leveled adventurers in the day time. It will be hours of combating with the enemy and it proved to be difficult to stay up and running by that time.


    With it being the case, he was not even losing hope. He can survive this predicament and he was the best in surviving. He has survived a baby dragon in the past and he thought that he can also survive an outgrown snake. Even just by himself.


    "The scales of this mother snake was ten times stronger than its children. It would be hard to make damage in the skin of ten-times-stronger-than-steel scales. But the lightning damage was able to pierce through the scales. The other enchantments were also making damage and it was not so effective than the lightning damage. Gotta move fast, the enemy were catching up.", Kael said.


    He was running in the forest and saw a pack of wolves. He was seen by them with light floating on his head and they planned to surround him. Kael was running towards them and they growled at him. They barked at him and was in the formation to attack anytime.


    He went running and running in that cold night. The leaves were rustling behind his back and it was enough to make him worry. Their distance was not getting far from each other. He was worried that he will run out of haste potion and was left with no option but to fight. He assessed the situation and thought that if he put off the lights and poured sense hindering potion, he can hide from it. And speaking of hiding, where will it be? He was thinking of a plan to hide, but the enemy was fast enough to cope up with him in that distance. He will also become temporarily night blind when he will put out his light. In which in favor of the snake who uses its hearing and tongue to sense him.


    He was running faster as he felt that the rustling sound was getting nearer. He can feel the presence of the snake getting nearer. He went running in his eleven-o-clock but it was still not getting tired. He drank haste potion and stamina potion and throws the bottle on his back. Which was broken and crushed by the snake. He then felt the lightness of his body. Having the effects being felt by Kael, he ran faster and faster. Bursting while he has the energy and speed to do the simple task and it was to run away.


    "This monster was frightening. I can''t imagine how to win but it was for the better to avoid contact. I have poison damage but it won''t reach its flesh. Giving it bashing damage will only make it berserk and not enough to make it stunned. Gotta find a place to hide but it was close to the impossible. Just how did this thing live for decades? For centuries? I don''t know the answer. But I will try to kill it if it will be an all-out brawl. But I can''t imagine myself winning. I hope Kelvin was doing fine. I have a great time with him. Let''s hope that I will survive and treat him with food. After I will survive this, I will be having a day off. Gotta enjoy in the future.", Kael said in his self.


    He was running and can hear his footsteps. It fell silent with just his steps and it made him worried.


    "Where is the snake! I can''t hear the sound of its crawling!", Kael screamed on his mind.


    Not expecting that the snake will leave him all behind so suddenly. Kael looked back and the sound was gone. Immediately, he felt great danger struck him as he looked at his front. The snake was just in front of him.


    It slammed its face to the ground. Just below his feet. Kael was surprised and he was struck with dirt all over and he rolled four three times. The floating lantern was still radiating its light. He can see it while he was on the ground. Looking up above, he saw the snake was hissing. It saw Marlin be blacked out so he tried to grab the opportunity. It lifted Marlin on his right foot using its tail. Marlin still felt dizzy and was looking down on its big mouth. It was opening and it was just below Marlin. Marlin saw it and he regained his senses.


    "Here eat this!", Marlin shouted.


    He grabbed his sword and enchanted it.


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    He dropped the sword to the mouth and it exploded and sparked while producing shockwave. Other enchantments were also present as it dropped.


    Shhhiiieeeekkkkkk!!!


    It pierced the mouth and went inside its body. It wailed and screamed in the process. Due to the pain, it has felt, it throws Kael to the ground. It bellowed but it can''t do a thing.


    "The enchantments were steadily doing damage inside as it was detecting a monster. I didn''t think acting weak in front of you would be your demise.", Marlin said.


    The monster was enraged and it puked out the weapon. Stabbing the ground as it was spat by the snake. Marlin dashed and grabbed the sword and flicked it to remove the slimy saliva of the snake.


    "Bring it on! I won''t cower anymore!", Kael shouted.


    He was worried about a nearby person that will be caught with their fight so he goes to the woods beside the river and ran away further to have a solitary fight with the snake. He pointed his weapon to his enemy and looked at it with fierce eyes. The snake on the contrary was enraged by the feeling of getting hurt inside its belly. It made her wanted to also do the same thing and make the enemy feel the pain of what she has endured. It gathered air inside its lungs and breath out the poison she has.


    Kael was running towards the exit of the woods saw an open space. It looked like it was a grassy plain. He saw the snake following him and so he dashed with greater speed. He was ready to fight anytime so he dashed and dashed.


    Both of them exited the forest and Kael was holding his weapon tighter. He ran towards the open plain and the snake was getting impatient. It assaulted Kael without any further ado.


    "Here! Snaky snaky!", Kael shouted.


    He was attached by its charge and he sidesteps a bit. Slashing its hard scales with his sword. It was sparking and exploding in the process. Some parts of its scales were frozen and it was being exploded at.


    "Ice and fire! That''s it!", Kael screamed.


    "If I froze the skin and  then light it up. Maybe its scales will be shattering like a glass!", Kael screamed.

 117 Kaels decoy part 2

    "Ice and Fire that''s it!", Kael shouted.


    He was struck with a bright idea. The snake was bewildered by his presence. It was thinking just a second ago that its prey was a little bug that can be crushed instantly. But now it was seeing an enemy that can be unpredictable. It was wiggling its belly and was observing Kael for a minute. The snake was looking at him and can only see a child in its eyes. Wondering how did that child make a mess to her.


    She immediately attacked and breathed poison on Kael. Kael saw the upcoming poison breathe that was coming towards him. He readied his weapon and enchanted it with his enchantment.


    [Enchant: Shock-wave damage]


    He switched his weapon on the flat part and fanned the smoke she breathed. Fanning it with booming sound and was making the smoke dispersed.


    Kabooommmmm!!!


    He used the shock wave of the enchantment and was fending off the smoke. She breathed poison gas and Kael was dispersing it with another fanning attack. With the attack of the mother snake becoming ineffective. She attacked him with a charge.


    Kael switched his weapon to its bladed part and disenchant all damage enchantments.


    [Disenchant]


    He removed the enchantments and enchanted one enchantment.


    [Enchant: Ice damage]


    He enchanted ice damage to his sword and was getting ready for another attack. The snake was getting agitated and launched her attack. She slammed her closed mouth to the ground and Kael was barely evading her strike. Kael jumped forwards and slashed her skin in her attack. He went flying forwards and his sword was sparking in the process of his slash.


    Kael looked back and saw that the skin was freezing. He saw that the scales were bluish-white on the outer part and was planning to attack again. When he looked back, the snake was not making breath for a second. She launched her attack again and slammed her mouth to Kael. Kael twisted and summersaults backward and landed on the ground. In split seconds, he was attacked again with her charge. He deflects it with his sword and her mouth was frozen. But it made Kael thrown on the impact.


    He slammed his body in the ground and rolled three times. He saw that another attack was coming so he flicks the ground and he went upwards. The ground he was in a second ago was slammed by the mother snake''s mouth. Throwing stones and dirt as he left that place. Moving upwards, he landed a little further from his former place. He was holding his sword and was intrigued by the sound of the scales crackling.


    "Here I go!", he shouted and dashed towards her.


    He was seen and she moved her head upwards like lifting her head. She made instantaneous dive at Kael with a banging sound. Kael evaded by twisting upwards and was rotating. He slashed her skin as he was rotating, leaving icy skin in the process. The snake lifted again her head and she saw Kael was scratching her scales on her back. Kael was running on her scales and was piercing the skin while running.


    He managed to make an icy scales and it crackles as she moves. He was running and the snake pounced at him. He evaded by jumping off the back and slashed her chin. Making it to be frozen in the process. He runs again and was being chased. A booming sound was just behind him as he was chased by her.


    "This is crazy! I got to be faster to be able to escape her. But the scales were now brittle like glass. Gotta make more icy scales.", Kael thought about his plan.


    He ran and evades the strike from the back. He encompassed her to make damage to her tail. Evading while he can. He saw the tail of the humongous snake on her back. He dashed and slammed his sword to the tail and it was frozen.


    Shhhhhrrrrriiieeekkkkk!!!


    She wailed to the pain she got from him. Making her tail upwards into ice. Kael dashed to the front of her and began his real attack. After the initial preparation of icy scales, the fire damage was the real deal. Kael disenchants his ice damage and puts fire damage instead.


    [Enchant: Fire damage]


    He focused himself and readies for the attack of the enemy. With the enemy being hurt, she will thrash all over and will become berserk.


    Sssshhhhrrrriiiiieeeeekkkkk!!!


    She bellowed again. She was wiggling her body and was rolling over. She went enraged and her eyes went red. She attacked faster than before. Launching at full speed towards Kael.


    "She''s so fast!", Kael said frantically.


    Kael saw her attack but felt unfazed by her sudden upgrade. She attacked him with a charge and Kael slashed her with his sword while side-stepping.


    "She''s faster than before! I barely evaded her strike!", Kael said in his mind.


    He gulped saliva and smiled.


    "The conditions were set. Making true damage commencing.", He said then his slashes were followed by explosions.


    Bababababababang!!!


    He evaded her strike and she was exploding nonstop as Kael was slashing her scales.


    Bang!


    Another slash was made followed by explosions.


    The snake was shrieking as she wiggled. The scales were falling off of her back and Kael''s attacks were proving to be effective. Kael can be seen smiling when he saw the enemy''s scales were falling off. He saw that the enemy was being undressed but he still have much to do.


    "I am still far from getting the job done. Gotta deal as much damage as possible.", Kael said to himself.


    As he can see, the enemy has its skin peeled off forcefully. But it was now more enraged than before. Feeling its body being played at was making her annoyed and aggravated. Thinking that her previous scales were peeled off and her majestic body was defiled. It would be years to take back and regain her beauty and heal her wounds. Thinking of it, she was also agitated and her rage was on the roof when she thinks that her babies were not yet avenged. She agonized to the pain of her heart and the pain of her body. Shrieking and bellowed to her grief.


    "At least I can make your sufferings end by killing you. What do you think?", Kael shouted at her.


    The snake looked at him and attacked again. She opened her mouth and wanted to bite Kael for what he has said.


    "Good! She felt agitated. Here is my chance.", Kael murmured.


    She opened her mouth and Kael readies his sword.


    [Enchant: Lightning damage]


    [Enchant: Fire damage]


    [Enchant: Ice damage]


    [Enchant: Poison damage]


    [Enchant: Shockwave damage]


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    He finished enchanting and the snake''s mouth was opened. She attacked and its teeth were sharp as blades. Kael saw it approaching and swings his sword to his back. He rotated and then throws the heavy sword towards her mouth.


    He throws it into her mouth and it exploded with a boom.


    Baboom!!!


    The former was the fire explosion and the later was the shockwave explosion. With it stuck on her mouth, she was agonizing to the pain. Even though his sword was still putting damage, she ignored the pain and focused to attack Kael.


    Sssshhhhrrrriiiiiieeeekkkkk!!!


    She shrieked at Kael. If Kael saw her as a human, she was in her tears and was crying not knowing what to do. It was sad though that she was eating countless people in the past. Making her worthy of being punished.


    Kael felt that he needs to run and evade while the snake was constantly in pain. He saw that the snake was thrashing all over. Running towards him.


    He ran and was chased by her.


    "Run Kael! Got damn it! Or she will eat you whole!", Kael shouted as he runs.


    He was chased and he was attacked from the back.


    Bang!


    She thrashed on the ground and the rocks and pebbles were all thrown off. He was assaulted by rocks who were accidentally thrown at him when she slammed her face. He was thrown away and got slammed on the ground. Despite the pain that struck Kael, he went again running and drank a health potion. He went running and running and the snake thrashing towards him.


    "Waaaaaaa!!!", he shouted as he was jumping from the snake''s attacks.


    "I will use aura but will it be able to affect her? She has huge health and it will only be effective on small targets. I guess let''s put our hope to the sword. I think it was constantly damaging her, up until now."

 118 Kelvins rescue

    Kelvin was running in the cold night. The breeze of the air was making his armor to be as cold as ice. Running with his torch on his off-hand and has nothing on his dominant hand. Running as fast as he could without looking back. As he was running for an hour, he saw the gate of the city. With the guards on the gate, he asked them to help him but he was rejected. He went to the adventurer guild as the last resort. Putting off the light of his torch as he arrived at the town. The town was lit by lamps and he passed by a bridge with a small river. Reflections were seen as the lights were reflecting his eyes. Townfolks were passing him by while he was running. He was seen by the others and they were disturbed by his hurrying up. He was running towards the adventurers guild and saw that it was still open. He relaxed and try to be as calm as possible. The other adventurers were going home as they finished their missions. Kelvin approached the desk and reported his mission.


    "Oh! Hi! How can I help you? Um, where is your comrade? I thought that you are a party?", She asked Kelvin.


    "The mission was a success! We investigated the Heltcliff falls and found out that it was a snake monsters infested cave. We retreated as we saw giant snake but Kael made himself the decoy for me to report. He was fighting that giant mother snake now!", Kelvin said to her.


    "I''m sorry for making him do that quest. It was out of his rank to handle. We will immediately make extermination quest and rescued him.", She said to him.


    "All adventurers! We have an emergency right now! The difficulty of the mission was an A-class! We will have an extermination quest! A mother snake to be exact! A reward of a gold coin to the ones who will join the quest and another gold coin to the ones who will combat the snake!", she shouted.


    "Thank you very much! I hope that we will arrive on time!", Kelvin said.


    "Don''t worry about it! it was our job to secure the welfare of our employees! We will be ready and will leave immediately.", she said to him.


    "The location was in the Heltcliff falls. I hope we have a tracker and pathfinder. A ranger that has that skills.", Kelvin asked her.


    "I can assure you that we have that on our ranks. Don''t worry about it.", she said to him.


    "Thanks a lot! We will be going then!", Kelvin said to her.


    They readied themselves with different job classes on their ranks. They have a total of thirty-two in numbers. All including Helgurt Leomurds of rank A paladin class.


    He approached Kelvin and he was smiling. He tried to talk to Kelvin while being calm. A fully armored guy with a helmet on his waist.


    "Hello, I am Helgurt Leomurds. I am just curious, was it you who reported a big snake was inside the Heltcliff falls?", Helgurt asked him.


    "Yeah! It was me and my friend Kael!", Kelvin said to him.


    Kelvin was baffled by his speech, thinking that the head was as large as two carriages combined.


    "Ahahahaha, um well you see the snake can swallow two carriages in one bite. You gotta need big carriages to put it on.", Kelvin said shyly.


    "Oh, that big! Now I doubt your friend to survive! Let''s just carry him home. At least he will still be buried in a formal grave.", Helgurt said to him.


    Kelvin didn''t know if he will be annoyed at him or pity him. He was just ignorant of the snake and Kael. Kelvin doesn''t blame him for it. He pitied him with his reaction. Still, he will help him to rescue Kael. So he ignored his feelings and carry on.


    With the paladin Helgurt as their leader, Kelvin was assigned to be the guide. He immediately ushered them to go to the Heltcliff falls as he knows that every wasted time was detrimental to Kael''s survival. They assembled themselves outside the adventurer guild. Their leader made a brief message before leaving.


    "We will rescue Kael on the mother snake who attacked him and hope that he was still alive and kicking when we arrive there. I was told by the guild master that he was a talented guy and the guild master was a benefactor of him himself. He told me to save him as much as I can. So we will be moving by carriage and arrive there immediately to rescue him. That''s the briefing and let''s not waste time. Go!", he said to them and they went to the carriages.


    Kelvin was feeling very happy but he was also feeling worried. Not knowing what happens on Kael''s part. But he knows that Kael was a tough guy to kill so he was confident that Kael was surviving with all his might.


    "Hiya!", shouted the driver as he whips the horse.


    Immediately they left the adventurers guild and the town. Passing the people as the horse galloped on the way. Three carriages were hurrying towards the exit of the town and they exit the town gate. The carriages went towards the forest. Hearing the cold wind that was brushing the carriage as they traveled, they were cozy inside the carriage despite the cold wind outside. It has a heater inside the carriage. The way was dark with the leaves falling in the road. Some puddles of water were on the way and were splashed with the wooden wheels as they passed it by. The dark way was only lit by the lamp they have on the edge of the carriage. Two lamps were on both sides as we as on the back.


    "Hiya!", shouted the driver while mercilessly whipping the horse. They were hurrying to arrive in the Hentana mines which were recently established. There were mixed howls of several wolves on the way. Kelvin was sitting inside and they were looking at him. They were observing him as they thought of him being the one who reported the emergency mission. It was an emergency that even it was still night, they ignored their sleep and followed their charismatic leader¨CHelgurt Leomurds. They were wondering if this kid was telling the truth.


    Meanwhile, Kelvin was worried about Kael. He was thinking of his last moments with him as he fled with the enemy. Hoping that his last moments with him were not the last. He kept hoping that he will still see him.


    "Kael please survive and be alive! We were coming to rescue you. They will be helping us to fight that gad damn snake! I hope you are still alive before we arrive.", Kelvin said to his mind. Holding his bow that Kael gave.


    The carriage was still going on a cold night and it was running at full speed. Passing the road that was like an intestine. They went hard left then hard right. They were traveling faster than Kelvin''s running. He was sitting inside and saw in the window, the shadows that were like a log. He felt that they were being followed by a large entity.


    "The snake followed us?", Kelvin was feeling a sense of dread as he saw something crawling in the shadows.


    "Nah maybe I am just imagining it. Maybe I am just tired. That''s it.", Kelvin said in his mind to calm himself.


    He was still looking outside and saw the shadow did disappear. It stopped following them.


    "See!? It was just my imagination. Gotta keep my mind sane or I''m getting phobia of snakes. I mean, I am eaten by one right?", Kelvin said in his self.


    They were traveling and Kelvin''s fear subsided. They saw the camp of the miners from afar. Seeing their camp made Kelvin felt elated. Seeing people were satisfying to him. The carriage stopped and the driver tapped the roof of the carriage. They went outside the carriage and saw the encampment of miners. Some were huge tents that were made of animal skins. Huddled together and there was a large campfire on the west side of the tents that was still burning with large woods that fueled it. Their leader called their attention and announced the adventurers.


    "We will walk by foot from here on. The road towards the Heltcliff falls was inaccessible to the carriage. We will be on guard knowing that the enemy will be alerted by now. Thinking that their den was attacked. We will be alerted too. Not knowing the numbers of the enemy has to be put on your mind. According to our survivor, the enemy was a mother snake that was outgrown and can swallow two carriages at one gulp. Be careful and we don''t know if it was only one or more. We will go now, our person to rescue was waiting.", he ended his message and they went on towards the Heltcliff falls. Marching while carrying torches by their hands.

 119 Kelvins rescue part 2

    Their thirty-two men include their leader Helhurt Leomurds. Carrying torches on their hands. They were marching on the paved road beside the river and can hear the trickling sound of the river. Leaves were carried away by the wind and falls on the ground. They were on one line and were looking out for each other when an enemy attacks. The wind blew the torches and it was making the fire go to their right. Kelvin was on the front to lead their way. Their leader was also on the front. Looking out for enemies and warn them in case of a surprise attack.


    "Hey, kid. Can I ask you when did you arrive at the Heltcliff falls?", Helgurt asked him.


    Kelvin felt surprised by his question.


    "Well, we arrived before it gets dark. Maybe it was when the afternoon was ending and the sun was setting.", Kelvin said to him.


    "Hmmm, that was pretty earlier this day. So you survived the cave with snakes?", he asked.


    "I am saved by Kael. He soloed the snake and let it follow him. Making himself the decoy. I crawled for minutes but they went so far from the cave and maybe battling till now.", Kelvin said.


    "Is he strong?", he asked.


    "Yeah! But I don''t know how strong he is. He was a combatant that was a master of techniques. He was strong enough to make the baby snakes battered like meat being smashed with a meat mallet. The mother snake will be a tough one but he can keep it occupied. He will be on evenly matched with it even he doesn''t have a job class.", Kelvin briefly said.


    "I am sorry for belittling him. I am sure now why the guild master has taken a liking to him. To make us move when he sees he needed help. He invested in him and sees something in him. That was potential.", Helgurt said to him.


    "Yeah! He was that cool!", Kelvin said to him.


    They are walking and have been talking while on guard. They made a right curve and can hear the falls from afar. The rushing sound can be heard in the dark while they were walking.


    "We were near!", shouted their leader.


    They waited in the road and lets the rangers and rouges to scout. Leaving them and goes into the darkness towards the falls. Leomurds was now curious about what happened to them when they entered. He asked Kelvin what happened in detail. Kelvin happily told him all the details.


    Leomurds patted his shoulders and was happy.


    "Thank you for telling me about it. Now I know more about Kael. He is a brave man. Well, let''s go. The scouts have arrived.", he said to Kelvin.


    The scouts arrived and they were hurrying to tell their report.


    "Sir Helgurt! We have seen anaconda class snakes killed and an old snake mother skin was seen. If we can estimate it, it was century-old sir!", the scout said.


    The other adventurers were surprised by it but were excited. They can''t wait for a battle worth to be told at the taverns and become history. Thinking of it, they felt fire burning in their hearts and minds. Bolstered their will and passion to kill.


    "Alright, men! Let''s track the snake! It will leave tracks due to its big body! Now who wants to have a good memorable battle!", Helgurt shouted.


    "Aye!", they shouted.


    "Rangers and rogues! Track the snake tracks! We will be hunting it down!", Leomurds commanded them.


    "Yes sir!", They shouted.


    With the scouts that lead the way. They cross the river and found out the big tracks of the crawling animal. Trees were blown down by the force and ground was hoisted by the holes made by the snake. Caved-in holes were on the ground and were all over the place. Ripped trees from the ground were all over the place and were continuing towards their north.


    "The snake was too big not to make tracks. It would make our tracking easier.", said the rogue scout.


    "Good! Let''s just follow these tracks right?", said Helgurt.


    "Yeah! We have to hurry to locate the enemy.", he replied.


    "Alright let''s move. A snake was waiting for us.", Helgurts said.


    Kelvin saw many trees were blown and they entered the forest with many snapped trees in half. If he imagines it, its force was to enough to kill him instantly. Luckily, he has an armor that was enough to resist the damage. If that was an armor of artifact grade. He was continuing their travel and their hunting team was following the tracks. The scouts were like sniffing dogs that knows the way.


    As they continued, the scouts saw many piles of bones on the way. They felt disturbed by it and continues their path.


    "Sir I am afraid that the enemy was not just alone. I think this place was one of the breeding places of another snake.", the ranger scout said.


    "Another snake? It was not alone?", Helgurts said worriedly.


    "Yeah, and I think that we were just in the middle of their hunting grounds.", the scout said to him.


    "What!? We need to retreat! I don''t like to lose adventurers'' lives for a single person! We might end our lives here!", Helgurt said to the scout.


    "But sir! We are near the target location! I can feel it!", said the rogue scout.


    "We don''t have much time to argue about this! Let''s retreat!", Helgurts said in a panic.


    Kelvin felt dismayed by it but he was hearing noises from the distance. Crackling noise was heard by everyone. It was produced by scales that were heavily rubbed on the ground and has made a loud noise as it moves. They felt silent and heard the sound from their north. Kelvin knowing it all, shouted to warn them.


    "It comes from a large snake! The enemy was a big one!", Kelvin shouted.


    The crackling sound was getting louder and louder. It was coming from all directions and they can hear it was encircling them. Helgurt being the leader, ushered them to make a formation. He felt the immediate need for them to make a formation.


    "Mages and rangers, to the center! Warriors and Paladins, make a defense formation! Priest! heal as much as you can! Rogues! Deal damage as you please. Swordsman and fighters! Fight with extra care. Don''t get killed!", he shouted.


    Immediately, they followed his instructions. They went into formation and readies for a fight. After they formed together, the animal in the shadows shrieked loudly.


    Ssssahhhhhrrrrriiiieeeeekkkkk!!!


    They were alerted by its defeaning sound. It showed its head towards them and the light of torch was lighting its shiny brown scales. Its eyes were red and it has dark spots on its skin.


    They saw the snake, so big that it was like a pillar of huge buildings. The snake was watching them and can feel the heat that was emanating from their warm body.


    "Prepare the range attacks!", Helgurt shouted.


    After the snake heard it, it was alarmed. Its instinct says to him to kill the potential threat to their place. It bellowed and launched his attack.


    They fire their arrows and fireballs at the snake and it exploded to its face.


    Bang!


    It shrieked to the pain and breath out poison gas. The adventurers were covered with the gas and the mages fired a wind spell [Gust]. Making the poison fog to be carried and sucked by the wind spell.


    Looking at its efforts to be wasted. It went back to the dark.


    "Be aware! It was preparing to charge!", Kelvin shouted.


    Immediately after he shouted. It charged at them and their formation was destroyed. Fearing to be run through, they dispersed for the charge not to hit them. With the formation broken. It thrashed all over the place. The mages were running as they were being targeted.


    Helgurt saw the situation thus he turned serious. He used his spells to attack the enemy.


    [Blinding light]


    A bright light was made from his hammer and it made the snake blind.


    [Summon giant hammer]


    He summoned a giant hammer from his head and it hammered the head of the snake.


    [Thundering hammer]


    He throws his hammer that carries lightning. It electrified the snake with his attack.


    "And last but not the least!", Helgurt shouted.


    [Omni armor]


    He attacked the snake without fear due to him being his armor risen to thousands.


    [Heavy hitter]


    Helgurt''s swing of his hammer was light for him but carries a ton when hit to the enemy.


    He smashed the hammer to the snake and it made the snake thrown to the force. It bellowed and flees for his life.


    The adventurers shouted with joy and hailed his name.

 120 Kelvins rescue part 3

    They shouted and hailed his name. Everyone was so happy that they praised Helgurt.


    "Helgurt Leomurds! Helgurt Leomurds! Helgurt Leomurds! Helgurt Leomurds!", they praised him like a hero.


    Helgurt stands in the middle and he laughed.


    "Hahahahahahaha!!! Don''t be happy about it! We were just starting! Let''s go!", He shouted.


    Kelvin was curious just where did his panic come from. He was recently saying to retreat but when Kelvin saw his fighting, he was capable of defeating one.


    "He is strong but his cowardness was showing. Maybe he just does not want to lose the precious lives of his men. We will be in trouble if he didn''t battle the snake. Thinking of it, Kael couldn''t defeat the snake just like he did. Not underestimating Kael but he will still grow, like someone greater than the rank-A Helgurt Leomurds. With the skills of job classes, he will be stronger than them. Just an assumption but it could be true. Kael was waiting, we better hurry.", Kelvin said to himself.


    They ventured into the forest and watched the broken trees on the way. Some trees have bite marks and sunken teeth were present. It was a great battle that took place in the forest. Kelvin can also guess that Kael was just running away. Based on the tracks, not a trace of fighting back was seen. He could imagine that Kael went pretty far away.


    While walking in the dark forest. They were carrying torches in their hands. The wind blows towards them and was coming from the outside of the forest. A place where the wind was freely rushing towards them because of the broken trees were not hindering its flow. Making the inside of the forest to be windy. Torches were being blown by the wind and their breathing was heard from their selves. The forest was too silent and it was only their noise was heard.


    Tak! Clak! Tak! Clak!


    Their footsteps were heard and the wind whoosh in their ears.


    "It''s spooky here, the wind was the only thing we can hear. There are only wind and no crickets, no animals, no nothing.", said the ranger to Helgurt.


    "It means that they passed here. Even the animals and crickets were silent because of them being afraid.", said Helgurt.


    "We should be hurrying up. Or we will be surrounded by the enemies here. The snakes were very good hunters but due to their very big body, they were easily heard when coming. Their scales were crackling when being rubbed to rough surfaces. They were heavy and that was causing them to produce sounds.", Kelvin said.


    They go on with their walking and the other adventurers were seeing small snakes. Some of them were on the trees and others were looking at them when they were flashed with the torch''s light.


    "You mean when the stars fell? They were connected?", Kelvin asked.


    "Yeah! It''s a possibility but I think that many monsters became more cunning. Others were thinking like a person. The others were becoming like a tribe. Their instincts were evolving. And it all started when the meteor shower has fallen.", Helgurt said to him.


    "The meteor shower!? I think it was all because of the entities that were inside the meteors. They were called fallen.", Kelvin said.


    "The fallen? Do you mean Angels who rebelled? How do you know this?", Helgurt asked.


    "I have seen them. It was festival time in Shelkhem village. When the meteors fell near our plaza. They emerged from the meteor and made gates from the other world. Monsters came out and attacked everyone. I am a survivor of our village and I don''t know who to talk to with this story. I am afraid to be called insane so I didn''t tell it to anyone I didn''t trust.", Kelvin said to him.


    "Hmmm, I believe you and we need concrete evidence. I will report this to the guild master. I hope we will be warned. Maybe they were the ones who mutated the monsters of Lumia. They must be the cause.", Helgurt said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah, you''re maybe right. We should be prepared for the worst.", Kelvin said to Helgurt.


    They were walking with the scouts on the lead. Walking while hurrying but were still on guard. Kelvin was seeing the end of the forest and the scouts were seeing a great figure from afar.


    "What is that!?", the scout shouted by the distance.


    Kelvin and the others were alerted by his shout and were hurrying to see it also. Their hearts raced as they saw a great figure in the darkness. As the torches went nearer and nearer. They saw a great snake that was bigger than the snake from before. It was twice as big as the one they saw. Its eyes were bulging big and were red as roses. Its skin was frozen and many wounds that were very bloody. Massacred with many cuts on its skin. Its brown scales were dissected and removed. The brown skin was replaced with bloody flesh and its flesh was still moving. Vibrating like it was still alive.


    It moved its head and the adventurers panicked. The mages and other ranged adventurers immediately fired spells.


    [Fireball]


    [Rapid fire]


    [Energy ball]


    [Homing missiles]


    [Fire breath]


    [Exploding arrow]


    [Wind blade]


    [Lightning strike]


    [Ice missiles]


    Babababababababababang!!!


    They fired it all in the face and it was exploding from one after another.


    "Stop! Stop! Stop! It''s already dead!", Helgurt shouted.


    "Did we kill it!?", asked one of the mages.


    "Pretty much!", replied the other mage.


    From the explosions, emerged a man coughing from all the smoke. It approached them and saw that it was a kid.


    "Cough! Cough! Cough! What the hell was that! I nearly died there!", said the kid.


    Kelvin saw him and he can''t believe what he saw. He dropped his torch and tears went down to his cheeks from his eyes.


    "Kael! You''re alive!", Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah! Pretty much!", Kael said to him.


    "Hey! So you killed it?", Helgurt asked him in a loud voice.


    "Um pretty much! But hey! You''ve come to rescue me? Like all of you?", Kael asked them.


    "Everyone! The one who will be rescued was alive! We will be rewarded handsomely with him alive! Hey, Kael is it?", Helgurt asked him curiously.


    "Yeah! Thank you for all your efforts to rescue me! I am deeply happy to know it.", Kael said to them while bowing.


    "Don''t mind it, the guild master was the one who made it emergency quest so thank him instead of us.", Helgurt said to him.


    "So what do we do now? Let''s go home! And party!", Helgurt said to Kael.


    Kael didn''t felt that it was the right time to party but was silent.


    "Uh I''m sorry but we were in great danger right now.", Kael said to Helgurt.


    "What? You said that you killed the mother right?", Helgurt asked.


    "That''s the reason why we were in danger. You see it was their mother.", Kael said to him.


    "What mother? What do you mean by "their"? You mean it was their mother?", Helgurt said bewildered.


    "You mean?", Helgurt said while still thinking.


    "Yeah! She was the mother of all snakes here in this forest. And her children were all the snakes here in this forest. Large or small, it was their mother. And you know what''s frightening?", Kael said.


    "What''s frightening?", Helgurts asked him.


    They were silent for a moment and Kael was thinking.


    "It might have many husbands!", Kael said to them.


    They were shocked about it. Not knowing to say.


    "Huh! Polygamy!?", Kelvin shouted.


    "They''re snakes got damn it!", Kael shouted.


    The adventurers laughed at Kael. They didn''t know if they will believe him as telling the truth or just joking around.


    "Oh okay! Hahaha! So they will avenge their wife? Is it?", Helgurts asked him.


    "I know what I''m talking about! Like they were surrounding us right now!", Kael shouted.


    Helgurt observed the surroundings and He was alarmed.


    "Rangers! Observe if there are life signs in the perimeter!", He shouted.


    The Rangers used their skill [Detect life]. Just after it, the rangers reported.


    "Sire! we were detecting huge life signs all around us. Large enough to call it the husbands! Sir!", he shouted.


    "Huh! Everyone formation! Prepare for combat!", Helgurt shouted as he felt the need to go on defense formation.


    The paladins and warriors were in the front and the rangers were drawing their bow. The priest was just behind the front line defense. The rogues were ready to attack anytime. The mages were in the center, preparing their spells for the upcoming battle.


    After they made their formation, shrieking sounds were heard from the forest. The forest was sounding as the trees were shaken. Their leaves were shaking and the sound was heard throughout the forest.


    Ssssshhhhhhrrreeiiiiikkkkk


    "Men! It was nice meeting you all! Let''s survive this one together!", Helgurt shouted.

 121 Snaky predicamen

    "Men! Prepare for battle!", Helgurt shouted.


    He prepared them for the worst. The trees around them were shaking and rustling due to the coming enemies. The adventurers prepared for the worst and were ready anytime to defend. They will be attacking anything that will attack them. With their leader Helgurt, they believe that they will survive this predicament.


    Kael was also ready to slay anytime. With his enchanted sword in his hands, he was confident to take on any of her husbands. They were so many to count on your fingers. Kelvin was also on edge, he felt relieved because he saw Kael alive and kicking. Never felt so relieved in the past. He was smiling while looking at him. Immediately, he focused himself on the upcoming battle.


    "They were coming! Prepare for battle!", Helgurt shouted.


    The adventurers prepared themselves to the fight and cast buffs unto themselves. Kael made a crackling sound as he twisted his neck to the right and towards the left.


    "Huh, I gotta take down one. I will leave the rest to the others. Kelvin! Watch this!", Kael shouted at him and runs towards the enemy.


    The snakes as big as pillars emerged from the forest and went towards them. Some were bigger than the others. Others were colored blue and another orange, some were brown and some were black. With the parading enemies, the ground was shaking. Mixed shrieking shouts were heard in the plains as they attacked. Kael launched himself towards the enemies and it was seen by Helgurt. They were shocked by his bravery. It was just foolishness towards them.


    Kael launched himself and attacked them.


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    He attacked and slammed his sword to the head of the blue snake.


    Bang!


    His sword exploded like a heavy hammer that collided with another metal. The blue snake''s head was hammered with a heavy sword. Helgurt was amazed by him and didn''t want to lose at him. He also launched himself to the enemy.


    [Divine armor]


    His skin became as hard as iron.


    [Omni armor]


    His defense became a thousand.


    He attacked with his shield and hammer. With cape on his back. He was seen as very heroic and awesome. Aspiring the hearts of the adventurers as they looked at his back.


    "Go Helgurt! You can do it!", they shouted to cheer him.


    Helgurt saw the enemy snake that was coming at him. He used his skill to distract the enemy. He lifted his hammer when the enemy attacked him.


    [Blinding light]


    Kael felt relieved as he saw the others were holding on to their formation. He runs when the snake dived at his foot and slamming the ground. He backward summersaults when he was attacked by another one on his left. He twisted and rotated in the air, slamming his sword to the orange snake''s back. Kael heard something snapped on its back when he slammed his sword. He jumped from the back of the orange snake when he was attacked by the blue snake with a bite. It made the blue snake bite the back of the orange snake.


    He was keeping two snakes being occupied at the same time. The orange one was attacking with his tail. Whipping Kael with its large tail. Kael received it with a parry. Smashing the ground with its heavy attack. Kael felt the heavy attack but managed to deflect it with his sword. It was enough to deflect the heavy blow of its tail but it made a toll on his shoulders.


    Kelvin was in the formation, he was assisting with the tanking and keeping the enemies at bay. The snakes were being attacked by the mages. Spells exploded one after another. The Paladins were using their skill [Blinding light] to keep the snakes think twice before attacking them. The mages were making use of it and attacked with combinations of spells.


    The snakes shrieked as they were being fired at with spells. It was very damaging to their face when it explodes. Kael was attacking the two snakes, he dashed to them and made adjustments to his enchantments.


    [Enchant: Fire damage]


    [Enchant: Shockwave damage]


    [Enchant: Sharpness]


    He dashed towards them and attacked aggressively. The snakes too attacked aggressively like him. They crawled towards him and lifted their heads like cobras. Kael ran towards them and the snakes launched their attacks. Opening their mouth and wanting to bite him with their sharp teeth. Kael slashed the orange one with his sword and its enchantments take effect as he slashed him.


    It exploded and shockwaves at the same time. Slicing off its mouth as it attacked him. Kael then stepped back as he was assaulted with the blue one.


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    He throws the sword at it when it attacked him. It exploded and made a booming sound as he throws it at him.


    Helgurt used his skills and buffs when he fought the enemy. He was currently attacking a rattlesnake type of snake that has overgrown itself. Rattling its tail as it attacked. Helgurt used his skill to make it think twice before attacking him.


    [Blinding light]


    He used his skill and the rattlesnake was blinded. Making use of the situation, he dashed towards the enemy.


    [Heavy hitter]


    He used his skill and he was hammering the snake with his hammer.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!


    He slammed his hammer four times and it made the enemy staggered a bit.


    The snake bites him in a flash but he managed to evade in hair''s breadth. Helgurt rotated and slammed his hammer again.


    Bang!


    The snake was thrown towards the direction of his slam. He then used his skill of confronting large enemies.


    [Summon giant hammer]


    He cast the skill and a giant hammer appeared on his head. Hammering the snake on the head.


    Bang!


    It hammered the snake and its head was buried to the ground due to the impact.


    [Thundering hammer]


    He throws the hammer and it electrified the snake. It made the snake produced smoke when it was attacked with the electrifying hammer.


    The teamwork of everyone was effective and it eliminated many snakes. Kael was also attacking another enemy. He attacked the enemy who was attacking the adventurers. He dashed to them and helped them.


    "Stop their attacks!", shouted the paladin.


    "Fire the spells!", shouted the senior mage.


    "Heal me!", shouted the warrior after he was blown by the attack of the snake.


    Kael slashed the snake that was attacking their formation. Smashing the enemy with his heavy sword that was heavy enough to blow off the snake.


    Bang!


    The snake was blown by the force. It was rolling to the pain and it shrieked.


    "Whoa!", shouted the adventurers.


    They were shocked by the loud shockwave of the sword. He dashed to the enemy and was able to slice off the snake.


    Shing! Shing! Shing! Shing!


    The snake''s head was cut off by his sword. He landed on the ground and the head slammed to the ground. The other adventurers were once again reignited by his bravery. He went on with his slaughter. Helgurt was battling another one. The black snake that was assaulting him. He was panting and used his skills again to kill another one. Kael was slicing off the skin of the enemy snake and it was effective due to his enchantment "Sharpness". Kael dashed and sliced the scales and his sword buried within the scales of the snake. Making it shrieked to the pain. Helgurt was doing the same. He smashed the snake with his summoned giant hammer. Killing off the enemies one by one.


    The adventurers were also making the brown snake preoccupied. Having a combo of stun and dealing damage. The snake was distracted by the light and a barrage of spells was being thrown at him. The tanks were barely defending the attacks due to the force of the large snake were not to be trifled at. Making them blown to the force and the priests were healing them.


    Bang!


    The snake bashed its head to the shield of the knight. Making him use all his force to block his attack. They were firing spells at him but the snake was tenacious. Kael rescued them and attacked it. He slashed its scales but its skin was as hard as the mother snake that he battled before. Kael remembered how he defeated the snake and shared it with them.


    "Mages! Use ice magic! Then attack it with fire!", Kael shouted.


    After he shouted, they heeded to his command.


    [Frozen nova]


    [Ice breath]


    [Ice hail]


    [Ice lance]


    [Ice missiles]


    They all fired the spells and it freezes the snake''s scales.


    "Now fire spells!", Kael shouted.


    [Fire breath]


    [Fireball]


    [Inferno]


    [Explosion]


    The snake has obliterated as well as the snake that Helgurt was battling.

 122 Survived

    They eliminated the enemies with their force. The snakes were all dead lying on the ground. The adventurers hailed Helgurt''s name. With him being in the limelight, he was seen as a hero.


    "Helgurt was so cool! I wish to be strong like him!", the paladin adventurer said while looking at him.


    "Helgurt! I will be as strong as you in the future!", the paladin shouted.


    "Yeah! I will too!", said the ranger.


    Helgurt then went up in the snake and made an announcement.


    "All adventurers! I will be throwing a party! All of you were invited! Let''s party and its on me!", Helgurt shouted.


    Cheers were heard in the forest. They began singing as they all walk home. Kael was with Kelvin. Having used all his strength, he was low on energy. They walk home towards the capital. With torches on their hands, they paraded towards the capital. The wind was calmer now when they have arrived at the river.


    "Hey, Kael! Good for you to be back. You got me worried there!", said Kelvin.


    "Sorry about that. I wish to kill it immediately but that place was not the place to battle. Thus I went to the outside of the cave. I saw the forest and went there but the snake was really angry. I arrived at the open plains so I decided to confront it. Yeah, it was a tough fight. I gotta learn job class skills in the future so my mana was put to use. Let''s join their party or rest for now?", Kael asked him.


    "Nah! I gotta rest. I''m so dead tired now. I know that you are too.", Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah! Let''s rest for now. I will then treat you to the food stalls to eat! As promised!", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah, let''s rest first.", Kelvin said to him.


    They went home while walking. The seemingly tired adventurers were walking at a steady pace. Looking at the sky that was beginning to shine. The river sounded beside them as they were walking. The adventurers were chatting random topics as they walk. Birds began to chirp as they saw the sun rises. The loud crickets began to be silent. Paving the same path from before, they saw the pleasant sceneries to their eyes while traveling. Deers hops towards the deeper forest when they were seen. Squirrels were panicking to hide when seen by the adventurers. Random chatting continued to be heard while they parading.


    "Hey, do you know that winter is coming! It was getting cold now. The leaves were beginning to fall off from the trees.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah I know, maybe we will visit the ramen shop! Thinking of the cold weather while sipping its soup will be an awesome experience. Gotta hurry to walk. I feel sleepy though, the river sound was not helping either.", Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Yeah, I am too tired to walk. I will be having body aches later on. Do you think we will be still awake when we will arrive in the capital? I wanna sleep here right now.", Kael said to him.


    "Oh, the mines! You have a carriage! Wait? You rented a carriage?", Kael blurted out.


    "Don''t worry about it! It was from the guild master. He was worried that you will be swallowed alive. So he sends his carriages for faster travel.", Kelvin explained.


    "Oh, he was? He is such a worrywart. I will thank him later on. If he was still on the guild headquarters.", Kael said to him.


    They went on with their travel and paved the way with curves and straight. Not minding the animals on the way. They were seeing the red leaves of the maple trees that fell off the trees as the wind carries them. They have arrived at the mines where the carriages were waiting. Looking at the carriage, Kael felt sleepier. He was excited to sleep on the way.


    The adventurers went inside the carriages and Helgurt checked their numbers. He counted them and were complete. None of them were missing. The miners began their work and they went inside the carriage. Kael was looking outside the carriage and was observing the miners. The campfire''s woods were on embers and smoke was still going up from the campfire. The chefs were now making breakfast for them and were butchering a pig. The others were preparing the ingredients for the food. They began to leave as the lead carriage was beginning to move.


    Slowly, the carriages were running. Kael was getting more sleepy and he slept on the way. Kelvin was also sleepy. He closed his eyes while the carriage traveled. They paved the road towards the capital. The way was bumpy and mostly calm. It made the adventurers sleepy. Having a tired night that they managed to be alive was a feat for them. The others surrendered and their sleep came. While they were sleeping, the way was slowly lit by the sun. Rays of light pierced the forest and hits the ground. Birds chirped around their surroundings and the drivers whipped the horses to make the pace steady.


    The way was peaceful and was calm. Making them sleep in peace. With them traveling to the capital. They were silent and no one was talking. Some were snoring while sleeping. They traveled towards the capital and has arrived without knowing. The driver tapped the roof of the carriage to wake them up. The others were surprised and the knight nearly draws his sword.


    "Hey wake up! Wake up! We''ve arrived at the guild headquarters!", the driver shouted.


    "What? What happened?", he shouted.


    "We''ve arrived!", Kelvin shouted.


    "Let''s go Kael! We need to sleep!", Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah yeah! Let''s go!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    They exited the carriage and went to the ugly duckling inn. The ugly duckling inn was a second rate inn, compared to the third rate inn where Kelvin resides in. There were lamps on the walls that were hanged. Lighting the room that they were walking in. Few people were drinking and eating at the same time. The room was made of wood and in the front of them, was a counter also made of wood. The receptionist was a girl and it was the first time that Kelvin saw her. Wiping the wooden mug with a clean cloth.


    "Kael! How were you?", She asked him when she saw him being bloody.


    "I am fine! Don''t worry. It needs only a bath and it will be cleaned. By the way, this is Kelvin! My new party member!", Kael introduced him.


    "I will be going now! I need to sleep early. We didn''t sleep for the whole night.", Kael said to him.


    "Oh sorry! Go on, you need to sleep right?", she said to him.


    "Thanks! We will go now!", Kael said to her.


    They went to the second floor and Kael opened the room with his key.


    "Oh! You''re the first time here right! My room is room number six.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    Upon entering, Kelvin saw a bed with a pillow. A comfort room and a shower room on the right side. A room with ample space to have a jog around and exercise. A metal bar to hang the newly washed clothes and a window by the bed. White curtains were being hanged in the window and a lantern on the table with a chair.


    "This will be your new home! Let''s wash before sleeping. I''m gonna go first!", Kael said to him.


    "Okay! I will wait!", Kelvin said to him.


    Kael removed the sword and his backpack. As well as his weights and cape. Kelvin also removed his armor and weapons. Kael washed in the shower room and went inside the bathtub. Feeling the cold water as he removed the blood of the snake from his dress. He was happily singing in his washing. The dress he was wearing was washed and he hanged it on the metal bar. Kelvin then washed in the shower room. He felt more comfortable in there even it was his first time washing there. Singing as he washed.


    Kael on the contrary wiped his hair with a towel and hanged his towel to the metal bar. He went to his bed and waited to dry his hair. Kelvin finished washing and then he went out of the shower room. He saw Kael was already sleeping and he smiled looking at him. He hanged too his towel and went to the bed. He closed his eyes and began thinking of what he will do to the future. Getting enough money for the academy was on his mind but he likes to enjoy it too. Like all kids in the world of Lumia.


    "I will become stronger in the future and avenge my mom. I will avenge her.", Kelvin said in his mind.

 123 Res

    Kael was sleeping soundly on his bed. Kelvin too was asleep. They were in the depths of their sleep and it was hours that passed by. Having rested for many hours was revitalizing their bodies as well as minds. Being in the depths of their dreams and enjoying what their minds were showing them in their minds were calming for them. Kelvin was dreaming of sheep in the fold and Kael who was dreaming about being on the seaside, watching the sunset with Kelvin. Even though it was only a dream, they felt relieved by it. Having a peaceful life away from bloodshed. Having a slow life was also needed for them. To relax their stiff and tense self from battles.


    The sun went up and shines the city. All the citizens were up and working on their jobs. It was what was happening in the city but Kael and Kelvin were entirely sleeping. Having slept for hours, they woke up in the same room. The same ceiling that they were looking at. Kelvin woke up and the sun was setting. He felt alarmed as they slept for an entire morning and the sun was setting from the outside. Kelvin opened the window and can see that it was afternoon. Having the sky became colored red made him alarmed.


    "Hey, Kael! It was an afternoon! Save your sleep later at night!", Kelvin shouted at him.


    He shakes him off to wake him up and he saw that Kael was twitching his eyes.


    "Huh?", Kael said as he saw Kelvin waking him up.


    "It was afternoon! The sun was setting! Let''s eat something! I''m hungry! Come on! Let''s grab something to eat!", Kelvin shouted at him.


    Kael was rolling back and forth and then sits on his bed. He moans and looked at the window.


    "Huh? It was afternoon?", Kael said in shock.


    "Yeah!? So let''s go!", Kelvin said to him.


    They went outside the inn in a hurry and Kelvin was singing off his hunger. While walking, they were talking with each other about what they will eat.


    "Hey, Kael! Let''s eat on the barbeque stalls! How about chicken legs?", Kelvin said to him.


    "Sure! Anything you want! That''s all? I got more money for this day! Let''s celebrate!", Kael said to him.


    "Hmmm, Let''s go to the ramen shop next! And to the juice stalls for the finishing!", Kelvin said to him.


    "Let''s go then!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    They went to the food district carrying money for their expense. The streets went colder and the sunsets while they were walking. The saw smokes from the food district that going up in the air. As they went nearer and nearer to the district, they can smell the food from the distance. Barbeques and other foods were smelled by their nostrils. Being hungry was making their cravings for food intensified it further. They didn''t even have breakfast and lunch¨Conly dinner. It made their hunger stocked for three times. Upon approaching the district, Kael was holding his pouch of money. Not intending for it to let go.


    "So what do you want to eat? Pick what you want and let''s eat it!", Kael said to him.


    "Okay then! I will pick ten sticks of skewered pork and a chicken leg", Kelvin said to him.


    "I will pick the same then!", Kelvin said to him.


    They ordered from the one who''s cooking. A male middle-aged person with a green shirt and has an apron.


    "Twenty skewered pork sir and two chicken legs and thigh.", Kael said to him.


    "Okay, sir! Please wait for your order. Please sit at one of our tables as you wait.", he said to them.


    Their order was being grilled to the embers of the charcoal. While being turned around in a timely sequence, it was being wiped by the sauce to make its flavor to be incorporated into the meat while being on the heat. Thinking about it makes Kael and Kelvin''s mind to run and go wild. They waited and for several minutes, their order was served to them.


    Without any further ado, they grabbed their portion and ordered rice. Eating it while they dipped it in lemon juice and soy sauce. Biting the skewered pork and the chicken legs and thighs. Eating it made their hunger satisfied a bit. Kael looked at Kael.


    "Are you thinking what I''m thinking?", Kael asked him.


    "Yeah! Let''s go to the ramen shop!", Kelvin said to him.


    They paid the fee and went on to their next destination¨Cthe ramen shop. While walking towards the ramen shop, they talked about the food they ate. Kael was telling Kelvin that it was good to eat barbecue after eating ramen. It sets up your appetite before eating a barbecue. Kelvin preferred to eat barbecue before ramen because ramen was special for him. It was like finishing for him. Kael respected it and followed his steps of eating. It was him who''s day was. It was his big day even though it was not his birthday. He was being treated to food because they celebrated the day when they survived the snaky predicament of the past. Kael was just that happy and it was a day worth celebrating.


    They went to the ramen shop and sits to the seat just in front of the small kitchen where they were cooking and at the same time preparing the food. They were assaulted with the smell of ramen as they entered. They ordered two bowls of special ramen with an extra slice of meat and boiled eggs. They waited for a minute to make their order and it was finished. It was then served to them. They smelled it first then grabbed the chopsticks. Sipping the soup first before eating the noodles. Eating chunks of meat and the boiled egg then sipping the soup.


    It was a happy moment where they were grateful for the peaceful time. There was no war currently but they thought that it will be imminent. The enemies will come sooner or later. But still, it doesn''t beat the moment they were enjoying now. It didn''t disturb their hearts for a moment. Because they knew that someone will protect the kingdom. They still need time to be stronger and it was the Academy of Dwight. Somewhere there, they knew that someone was stronger than them. And it was not their job now to think of that problem. They still need time.


    After finishing their bowls, they went to the juice stall that was selling orange juice, apple juice, and, grape juice. They drank all of its flavors and were satisfied with it. The sky went dark and the way grew cold. Making their hairs stand up just from the touch of the air. The lamps lit the way with its radiance as they paved the brick road. They went hurrying to go home as they were struck with sleepiness from the cold wind. They saw many citizens who were going home when they went home. They passed by the bridge with a small river inside the city. The lights reflected their lights to the eyes of the onlooker and a feeling of loneliness was felt as they saw it. Having the lights glitter as the water moves towards their destination.


    Kael and Kelvin went home to the inn without a problem. They saw the lamps glitter on where they were hanged and the cold wind dissipated from the inside. It was utterly warm inside the inn and it made Kael and Kelvin glad about it. Marlin then checked in and went inside his room.


    "Hoooh! It''s so cold outside!", Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Yeah! And winter''s coming! So it will be a lot harder to complete missions. We will need to be wearing thick coats when we go to missions.", Kael said to him.


    They entered the room and Kael went inside the shower room. It was the perfect time to wash with warm water. He immediately went washing and filled the bathtub with warm water. Trickling some water on his head and relaxing while he can. Kelvin went to the shower and showered with warm water. They took their time to the warm bath. Minding the time while they''re at it. Even though it was only a small time, they made their frozen body to be back and alive. They were thinking that when the winter comes, it will be a whole lot different from before. Most of the monsters will be having different instincts to hibernate and others will be hiding. It was the case for the ones who don''t have a home but the others who have den or home, they will be hunted. The only thing to do was know their hiding place. It will be a fun thing to do for a change. Kael and Kelvin finished washing and they went to the bed. They felt excited to sleep early and so they went to the bed to sleep. Not minding that the times flies by. They ended their day with bedtime sleep.

 124 Rank up

    Kael and Kelvin ate until they were full. They were happy that they ate a bunch of fried chicken. The flavors were still lingering on their mouths and were satiating their hunger.


    "Hey Kelvin!", Kael said to him.


    Kelvin felt surprised and asked him what was the problem.


    "What is it?", he asked curiously.


    "Thanks for accompanying me. It was pretty lively now that I got you.", Kael said to him.


    "Nah don''t mention it. It was pretty cheesy to hear it.", Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah! You''re right. I will be having a bad day because of you.", Kael said to him.


    They both laughed at it. They breathed and sighed. They followed the way towards their inn and then checked in. They entered his room and prepared to go to the adventurer guild. They walked towards the adventurer guild while talking.


    "Hey, Kael! What is your level now?", Kelvin asked.


    "Oh! Right! I forgot about it! It was on the 25 when I got back in the capital. I might check my status", Kael said to him.


    He checked the window card and saw that his level improved.


    ....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank D¨C


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 28


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (44) +


    Dexterity (48) +


    Vitality (49) +


    Focus (99) +


    Stats points: 84


    ....


    He was walking and Kelvin also leveled up. He looked at his window card when they were walking


    ...


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age:13


    Adress: Shelkhem Village


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventure rank: Rank D¨C


    Character level: 54


    Job class: Combatant


    Strength (54)+


    Dexterity (54)+


    Vitality (54)+


    Focus (54)+


    Free Stat points: 162


    .....


    "Oh! I have leveled up!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Me too!", Kelvin said to him.


    "What level are you?", Kael asked Kelvin.


    "I am currently level 54 and you?", Kelvin asked him.


    "Ahahaha! I am level 28. See you are stronger than me!", Kael said to him.


    "Nah, it was only a level. I think you are more knowledgeable than me. I am currently only a newbie on enchanting and alchemy. And other combat techniques too! Well, I will improve it in the future! Will you help me?", Kelvin asked him.


    "Yeah, sure! I will teach you! I might have something to do and that''s teaching you! Well, I didn''t even have a proper apprentice right now! So you will be the first! Considering that you have a higher level than me says that you are no pushover. Well, let''s see it in the future! Gotta train you hard to make you at least on the level of mine!", Kael said to him.


    "What level are you?", Kelvin asked in curiosity.


    "Master level! Surprised right?", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah, it was not even surprising for you to be a master! Wow so cool! Please teach me!", Kelvin asked him.


    "Huhum! You will be my official student from now on! Hehehe!", Kael said while smirking.


    They went to the adventurer guild while walking. The way was lively as they were walking towards the adventurer guild. Seeing other citizens was not new to them but it still made them feel new to the place. Still filled with curiosity as they watched the citizens do their own business.


    Seeing the adventurer guild headquarters from afar, they saw a majestic view of its architecture. The design never gets old every time they were looking at it. With the flag of Dwight hanging on the wall of the guild, they never felt more honored to see it. They arrived at the adventurer guild without trouble and it looked to be lively than before. More adventurers registered day by day and it was getting crowded as time goes by.


    Kael went to report their mission and Kael was with him. They approached the receptionist and told their mission.


    "Oh! Kael and Kelvin! Both of you have an update! Please give me your window cards to have ranked up!", she said while smiling.


    They both gave their window cards without thinking twice and she received it.


    "Please wait a moment sirs and you will be ranked up. Sit on our bench while you''re waiting!", she said politely.


    They both sit on the bench and waited for it. Soon after several minutes, they were called and their window cards were given back to them.


    "Oh! You all were given a gold coin each because you participated in the emergency quest. And thirty silver coins for exterminating the cave and as well as for investigating it. Congrats! You can now join the monster extermination quest and dungeon conquering quest. Both of you can now join them! And for Kael! The guild master sends his regards to you!", she said to him.


    Kael was happy with it and he smiled.


    "Um can I thank him personally?", Kael asked her.


    "He was inside! You can thank him personally!", she said to him.


    Kael went to look at the guild master and saw him writing a letter. The place was like the same as before and it was only the suit that the guild master was wearing that has changed. Several papers were on his desk and it was arranged neatly. Upon entering, Kael made the first one to voice out.


    "Um, thank you for your effort in rescuing me! I am glad to hear that you made the adventurers move in the form of an emergency mission. I am glad that I made it alive with your decision to rescue me. I don''t know what will happen to me if I were left there alone to that snakes. Once again, thank you!", Kael said then bowed.


    The guild master smiled while writing. He looked at Kael and replied to him.


    "You don''t have to worry about it. The ones I wanted to nurture must be safe and I wanted to see them become stronger in the future. You see, I don''t want to waste my investment on my favored adventurers. While they were young, they intend to be weak but with the guidance of the academy. They will be stronger in the future. You still have a long way to go young one and the way will be much harder each time you rank up. You need to be careful out there or I might waste my investment to you. You can say it stay alive until you become a student of the academy. Or my recommendation will be for naught. You need to stay safe okay?", the guild master said to him.


    "I will be extra careful there. Thank you for your kind words. I will leave now.", Kael said to him.


    He exited the room and saw Kelvin on the bench. Kelvin stands up as he saw Kael exited the room. He approached Kelvin and tapped his back. With armor on his body, it clanged as he tapped it. Looking at the crowded place they have, Kael invited Kelvin to exit the place.


    "Hey! Wanna celebrate our rank up?", Kael asked Kelvin.


    "Sure! Want anything?", Kelvin asked him.


    "Yeah! Let''s eat food again! The same food?", Kael asked him.


    "Let''s try meat bread and a hot bun!", Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah! Let''s eat that!", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah! Let''s go to the food district!", Kelvin shouted.


    They both laughed and mirth at the same time. Walking towards the food district that was the most rewarding place to them. Having a fun time while walking and was observing the people as they walk towards their destination. They saw a couple that was having their time together. Giving flowers to the female and she was smiling while the male was on his knees.


    "Hey look at that Kael! They were having a fun time! Maybe the male will propose to her!", Kelvin said to him.


    Kael looked at them and he was dumped by the girl. The male feels down and gave it to the other girl. She on the process of being given with the flower blushed and the male went happy. In the end, they became a couple.


    "Haha, nice couple! It escalated so quickly.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah! Pretty much they will end up being together.", Kelvin said.

 125 The hot bath

    King Leomurd Ainztain was standing upon the tub and made his announcement. Their idle chatter subsided and lend their ears to him.


    "Kings of different kingdoms! I am pleased that you are all willing to take part in this wondrous cause. We believe that this sacrifice will be for the better and I am more pleased to hear that we kings were willing to do anything for our people. It was the second time to form a treaty but this treaty will be at its strongest. And I hope it will be strong enough. So to celebrate before we part ways and fulfill our duties, we will make a toast! A toast for our brotherhood!", Ainztain said to them.


    The maids entered and gave them fruits and wine. Filling the glass with the grape wine, they went outside after it. The kings held their glass and they toast with each other.


    "For our brotherhood!", Shouted King Ainztain.


    "For our brotherhood!", they replied with a shout.


    They were merry that night and were talking with each other. The vampire king was drinking his wine and was silent. The Dwarf King was a chatterbox. While the others were also enjoying his company.


    "Hey let''s talk about our greatest feats! Mine is that I made a dragon being thrown by my cheer force.", King Dravid said to him.


    The Lycan King felt that he can match his feat. So he said his feat to him.


    "Oh! That was epic but not as epic as mine! I have shattered a mountain with my roar! I mean it''s just a roar but it was epic!", He said to him.


    "Mine is only a simple feat of drinking contest! I have managed to destroy the tavern with just my burp.", said the Barbarian King Darius.


    "I''m sorry to disrupt the gleeful moment but I would like to ask if the current force we have now is enough to hold and for how long?", asked the elven king.


    They were silent for a while and the Dwight king replied to him.


    "You can say that it is our strongest currently. We will be the representatives of Lumia when we defend this world. And the other world will be our enemy. We were weak when divided but strong when we cooperate. So let us be united!", King Leomurd said to him.


    "Ah yes! Of course. I am excited to see what the enemies will be. We will be facing the stronger ones who will cross the rift. We might be the ones who will have fun the most! Is it?", the elven king said.


    "We will be the hunting dogs of scouts. It will be no problem facing them.", said the Lycan king.


    "We will be teammates! All of the strong ones! But you see, we will be the ones enjoying the food here.", said the Dwarven king.


    "Hmmm, oh! That was not fair! But nevermind. As long as we will not die of hunger and has something to eat. It is fine right?", said the Druid king.


    "The world of Lumia will be approaching a time of distress and turmoil. Feelings of unrest will scatter to the kingdoms and will undoubtedly be unstoppable. It was what was written on the prophecy. We can not change it. If we can then it will not be a prophecy at all but fake news. All we have to do is do what we can. The enemies will be fast approaching, we will be the pillars of the next generation. Until the next generation will be ready, we have to sacrifice and become their foundation.", said king Leomurd.


    His hands were trembling as he said it.


    "We were all in this together! I know you are afraid that we will all perish but let''s fight alongside each other. As we are still breathing, we will be supporting each other! Right kings!?", shouted the Dwarf king.


    "Now let''s be merry! Come here in the hot tub and we will talk! You''re getting cold there in the chair.", said the Dwarf king to him.


    He settled in the warm tub together with him. The Dwarf king gave him a glass of wine and he received it.


    "You know my friend. We are on this problem together. When we feel alone for some time, we felt fear that we will die alone. But it was not the problem here. You have the barbarian king and the necromancer king that will accompany you. Whether it will be a tough fight or an easy one. They will accompany you to death. It was okay to fear what''s the unknown but we need something in our mind to carry on. And that is the reason to fight. I as well am afraid, but I know my butt will be saved by the Elven king and the Hobbit King. You see them as comrades but they will become brothers. As the leader of this treaty, you need to be strong. Stronger than us, wittier than us, wiser than us. And I know that being human was a strength and not a weakness! It was the courage that was inside you that made us agree to this treaty. Your kindness for everyone and the worry for all races. It was your strength! As a human, that is your innate power. As for me, it was my beard I guess? The longer my beard was the better. But I think it gets in the way when I drink wine. It gets wet every time I drink! I am also thinking of cutting it but it will be lowering my manliness.", he said to him.


    Leomurd calmed down and was relieved to hear him. He drank the glass of wine and loosened up a bit.


    "Thank you for encouraging me! Sometimes my fear is haunting me. I would be trembling without you. Thanks!", he said to him.


    "That''s normal for us! We fear also. What I am fearing are cockroaches and worms! I can puke when I am seeing those!", he said to him.


    The Lycan king also joined their chat.


    "What I am afraid of is a cat! I mean I hate cats to the bones!", Fang said to him.


    The Elven king also joined the chat.


    "We elves fear is to die of old age.", he said while holding his cup.


    "Bah! We all die! I mean the ancient heroes may be ascended to immortality but they will still die if they were killed. You see, nothing is permanent. We all know that!", said the Dwarven king.


    "Yeah, I know! But if you become ascender and unbeatable in the future then no one can kill you!", Dale said to him.


    He was astonished by his wisdom. Only he has that thought because he was an elf that has a longer lifespan than others.


    "Wow! You see I have never thought about it that far! Good thinking! Maybe I will start harvesting experience points to become level one thousand and ascend like the ancient heroes! But you see, we were busy people. Maybe if my son will be replacing me then I can focus on ascending!", the Dwarven king said to him.


    "Hey, Leomurd! Do you plan to ascend?", asked the Elven king.


    "Yeah! Maybe in the future! My daughter is still young so I will be acting like a king right now. Maybe when she marries. I can only hope that the kingdom will be in the better hands.", he said to him.


    "Don''t worry about it! We will be living to see her marry! And that of course us watching from the sidelines and see her walking in the carpet towards the groom. Well, that will be too far from now. We hope that we will live long enough in this predicament.", Said the Elven king.


    "Let''s have a toast for the future of the Dwight kingdom! As well as his future son in law!", Shouted the Elven king.


    "Cheers!", seconded by the Dwarven king.


    "Hahahahha! We will be attending to the marriage right!?", shouted the Barbarian king Darius.


    "That''s still too far ahead! We might have to survive this and wait for her to be mature enough!", said King Leomurd awkwardly.


    "But still! We will be the godfathers right?", asked Necromancer King Dread.


    "Yeah Yeah! Of course! Hahaha!", he said to them.


    They were merry that night and they prepared for their journey. The Human kings were tasked with finding the ancient heroes. The Beast men kings were tasked to hunt the enemy scouts and the Demi-human kings were tasked for defending the rift. They said goodbye to each other and left immediately in the morning.

 126 New missions

    Kael and Kelvin went to one of the bakeries and saw a hot bun displayed outside. It was put on glass and the hot steam of water was always heating it to make it as fresh as possible. Kael entered the place and saw other customers inside. A small room of three tables inside with a glass container to display the bread. Kael went inside and saw that they have a heater that was letting out steam. Making the room warm and cozy at the same time. Kael and Kelvin went inside and sits on the wooden table. The lady went to accommodate them and was on her uniform of a marine blue shirt and an apron. Having a handkerchief tied on her hair and good looks. She approached them and asked what will be their order.


    "What will be your order sirs?", she asked politely.


    "Hot bun, three each for the two of us and also meat bread. Also three for each of us. Please!", Kael said to her.


    "Okay, sirs! Would you like drinks?", she asked.


    "Coffee, please! One cup each for us. It''s cold outside so at least let us have a hot cup of coffee.", Kael said to her.


    "Thank you, sirs! Please wait for your orders. It won''t take too long.", she said to them.


    She left and Kael was looking outside. Many passed by the bakery and were talking with each other. Waiting for their dinner, they chatted a bit.


    "Hey, Kael! What do you think of this bakery?", Kelvin asked.


    "It was accomodating and it felt relaxing here. I might add this to our favorite places for eating. Hey Kelvin, what are your favorite places? Can you tell me?", Kael asked him.


    "That would be the barbecue stands, the fried chicken stands, and, the ramen stands!", Kelvin exclaimed on the last part.


    "Yeah, it was mine too. When the enemy invades, this will be eradicated. If you think about it. We will be helpless if we were not strong enough to defend ourselves and our loved ones. I will be strong someday and protect the kingdom but it will be still in the future. I mean I am not strong enough to outmatch a fallen.", Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Wow! You are already knowledgeable! I got my recommendation from the guild master and you Kelvin has to strive for the top ten. Well, I also will strive for it and rise to the top.", Kael said to him.


    The lady waitress arrived and gave them their order. Handing the coffee and the bread with a hot bun.


    "Thank you!", Kael and Kelvin chorused.


    She left and they started eating. The hot bun was grabbed by Kael and the meat bread was grabbed by Kelvin. They both ate it and tasted what the other one was eating.


    "Yum! Yum! That was delicious! I gotta try the coffee.", Kael said.


    He sipped it and felt the warm coffee was warming up his cold tummy. He blows the steamy coffee and its steam was blown away. They finished eating and they talked again.


    "From where we left off. I will need to be in the top ten. I heard that at the opening of the school, there will be an entrance exam. Other nobles were teaching their children to prepare for it. But we were adventurers now! We are a step higher than them! I believe that we have a chance!", Kelvin said to him.


    "You better prepare for it. It will be a tough fight.", Kael said to him.


    "Yeah! And you will also fight yes? But you have your tuition covered! You only have to fight for the sake of being on the top ten scholars. I, on the contrary, have to prepare for it. It will be a tough fight for the time being. Gotta make sure I secure that spot. But first! I need to be trained with alchemy and enchanting. As well as techniques! That will help raise my chances of making my way through to the top ten. Even just a slight possibility of winning will make me happy.", Kelvin said to him.


    "Don''t worry! I will teach you all I know. Your flight to the top was resting assured!", Kael said to him.


    "Well let''s go home now! It will be colder as the night goes deeper.", Kelvin said to him.


    They exited the bakery and traveled to the inn by walking. Having a good time to walk was that moment. Feeling warm inside and the cold breeze was hitting their skin on the outside. It was starting to be in winter. A few snowflakes were falling from the sky. Winter is coming and they will prepare for what to come.


    They arrived at the inn and checked in. They went to their room and washed with warm water. They immediately slept on that cold night.


    On the next day, Kael and Kelvin went to the food district while it was still dark. Where the sun has not yet risen. They ate on the grilling stall and ate grilled pork. Having eaten in the food stall. They purchased barbeque to be their lunch. They went to the adventurer guild to have a mission. Walking in the crowd of people while they were walking on the way. Looking for the citizens as they passed by. They have arrived without problems and saw the same majestic castle-like adventurer headquarters. They entered and approached the lady on the mission desks.


    "Oh! Kael and Kelvin! You can now join the monster subjugation and dungeon conquering quests. But you need to accompany strong veteran adventurers. As you can see you are still D minus which means you can only join others on their mission and learn while on the battlefield. Okay! Now you can pick a mission with other adventurers. We have a mission on a spider-infested cave! You will accompany a rank D plus party there with the others.", she said to them.


    She pointed out the others who were in the party who were waiting on the sidelines.


    They approached them and introduced themselves. They were a party well equipped with armors and weapons. They looked like a veteran party composed of a priest, a knight, rogue, ranger, warrior, fighter, mage, and swordsman. The Paladin looks like their leader and was coaching them.


    "Hello! We were a D minus party and we wanted to join you on your mission to the spider-infested cave. I am Kael the leader and Kelvin my partner. We were both combatant class but we can fight enemies!", Kael said to them.


    "Well, you can be our carrier if you were combatants. We appreciate if you will carry our belongings.", said their paladin leader.


    Kelvin felt irritated and Kael bit his lips. He smiled and Kelvin wants to blow up. Kael hindered him from spat insults and Kael smiled at him.


    "Yes, we will be carriers! But if our lives were on the line, then please make us defend ourselves. Can you agree with my proposal?", Kael said to him nicely.


    Their leader heard that it was fair so he agreed. Considering that they need to defend their lives too so he agreed.


    "Nice to meet you! I hope our mission is a success! By the way, I am Frank! A paladin. Ann our priest, Jack our rogue, Bruce our fighter, Sam our swordsman, Aulin our ranger, Gary our mage, Bren our warrior, and Anton our knight. We will be accompanying you and rest assured that you don''t need to fight and stay as carriers till the end of our mission. If we were strong enough for the enemies. Right guys?", Frank said to him.


    They chuckled and murmured a bit. Kelvin didn''t feel accepted and so he clenched his fist.

 127 Towards the mission

    "Kelvin, let''s let it slide this time. We can just adventure without worries! And we will not even break a sweat like this! We can just slay anything that will come to us right?" Kael said to him with a smiling face.


    "Come now carriers! We will give you our baggage! Let''s do your job right! And we will be protecting you! Right boys! Don''t worry, we will distribute the experience evenly!"  Frank said to the two.


    Kelvin looked at Kael and nodded. Kael then whispered in his ears while they were being looked at.


    "Yeah, we will do that! We agreed with your conditions!" Kelvin said to the party leader.


    "Right! That''s what I am talking about! Now let''s prepare and carry those bags on the back. With the help of you two, we will be unburdened with that load. Now let''s go!", Frank said to them.


    Kael and Kelvin went to the back and carried the backpacks. Having a load was new to them. In the past, they were only carrying an ample amount of weight and was still fast enough to combat the enemy. They were having their time carrying the load and Kael enchanted their loads with [Enchant: Weightlessness]


    He enchanted it with no one was looking and made a thumbs up to Kelvin. Kelvin too was replying with thumbs up to him. They were following their leader and until they arrived at the carriage station.


    "Hey, carriers! Move fast! Or we will leave you!" Shouted their knight.


    Kael and Kelvin then hurriedly went inside. Kelvin looked at him with dead eyes. Having no emotions while staring at him.


    "What do you want? Punk!" Anton bellowed at him.


    "Nothing! Just nothing!" Kelvin replied at him.


    "Tsk!" Anton spouted.


    Kael and Kelvin sit at the seats and then they observed each one of them. The leader Frank was in his white silver armor and has a round shield big enough to cover his chest. He was long-haired with blonde and white skin. Their rogue Jack was covering his mouth with cloth and has spiky hair that was colored black. He has sharp eyes and a long nose that was not covered with his cloth on his mouth. Two daggers were on his back and the hilt was seen on his shoulders. The priest Ann was black-haired and has a mature feminine body. With a curvy slender body and has a big bump on the front. She was carrying a staff and was round-faced. She has ponytail hair with pinkish cheeks. Round eyes with white skin. She was pretty in her way.


    They were talking and Kael together with Kelvin was silent on the way. He was minding his own business. The way was calm and they were traveling at a steady pace. They have arrived at the Geralt forest the further north of the kingdom. It was on the edge of the Dwight territory. The way was foggy and the forest was creepy. Crows were flying off from their sides and birds were silent for the being. The forest was silent and the trees beside them were covered with fog.


    They were on high alert of enemy ambush and thus was silent. The driver outside was on edge as he knows that the forest was creepy. On his travels in the past, he was able to distinguish if there were enemies that were going to attack. He was accustomed to it and has survived up until the present. Inside the carriage was silent and they were alert.


    "Be careful everybody, this place was famous for ambushes. As you also can see, many lives were claimed in these parts. The fog is also whispering and many creepy voices were heard from that forest. Some were a shout of girls, some were of the cries of babies, and others were like howls of animals. It will make you go crazy if you will live there. Many were lost in there. That forest was mysterious enough to be discovered what is happening. The forest of Geralt, I hope we can pass by safely." said Frank to them.


    Kael felt the chill and he felt uncomfortable by his story. Kelvin was left unbothered and he was not afraid in the slightest. He has experienced far more tremendous in the past. They traveled on the muddy road and the horse was pulling the carriage. With the non-stop travel, the horse was left panting. The weather became unrest and the dark clouds were forming in their direction. The breeze felt chilly and they were feeling the temperature to drop. They made the heater function and were getting cozy inside.


    The driver stopped the carriage beside the road and saw that the storm was brewing. Thunderstorms were coming on their way and he felt that they need to take shelter from the upcoming storm. He opened the window on the front and talked to them.


    "We will rest for now until the storm will calm down. Please be comfortable inside the carriage for now." The driver said to them.


    "We will take our lunch for the time being. Let''s eat first shall we?", Frank said to them.


    They all ate their food. Kael and Kelvin also ate the food that they bought. With the eating, the storm worsened. The wind was knocking on the window and the raindrops were thumping on the roof. Kael put down the big carrier bag and grabbed his robes. He put it on and he felt better.


    The place inside the carriage was cramped. Some of them were sleeping. They were sitting there and slept as the storm was pouring out. Kael was looking at them and saw that they were comfortably sleeping. The wind can be heard that it was whirring on the window. The place outside was dark and the trees were bent over. Kael was looking outside and saw that the outside was in utter chaos. With the comfortable feeling that they felt inside the carriage, it was enough to make them sleepy. The heat from their body was building up and it was enough to fight the cold. The wind blew stronger and Kael was happy that they were inside a carriage. It was a great uncomfortable feeling if they traveled by foot and was met with a storm on the way. He took a closer look at the window and touched the cold window. He breathed to the window and saw steam was formed from it. He wiped the steamy glass and he breathed again. This time, he made a smiley face. With him has nothing to do, he checked something out.


    "System imitate Frank''s job class." He talked to the system.


    [Paladin Job class copied]


    "So it was possible! Gotta check others too!" Kael said in his mind.


    "System imitate the other''s, specifically their job classes." He said to the system.


    [Copying...]


    [Priest Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Rogue Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Fighter Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Swordsman Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Ranger Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Mage Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Warrior Job Class copied]


    [Copying...]


    [Knight Job Class copied]


    Kael can''t help but grin at what he has discovered.

 128 Onwards

    "Kael! Don''t walk further or you will be lost!" Kelvin shouted.


    Kael turned around but he can''t see the carriage by the distance. Looking at his surroundings, he can only see white. He can feel that the fog was carrying cold wind as it touches his skin. He can hear that the fog was calling him.


    "Help me! Please help! Help! Help! Come to me!" The fog whispered to his ears.


    It was a kind voice and it was alluring to the ears. He felt tempted by the voice and was walking further. Step by step, he was walking towards the voice. He was captivated and walks towards it. Stepping on the leaves and twigs, he walks further towards it. Leaving the carriage that they were riding on.


    "Kael!" Kelvin shouted as he shakes him up.


    "What happened?" He asked.


    Kelvin held his arms and then pulled him towards the carriage.


    "The fog was bewitching anyone who answers her call. You will be lost if you will keep walking towards the forest. Luckily, I have resistance to mind attacks on my armor. You should think about enchanting yours too!" Kelvin said to him.


    "Whoa! That was close! I think I should enchant on my clothes." Kael said.


    [Enchant: Resist Elements]


    "Okay done! I should just enchant anything to my clothes from now on." Kael said to himself.


    They arrived at the carriage and the others looked at them. He was seen as careless because of what he has done.


    "Hey, carrier! Better not go around and be lost or you will lose your status of a carrier. You should just stay close to us okay! You are quite dumb for an adventurer. Don''t do that again." Frank said to him.


    "Okay! Let''s go now, shall we? This place creeps me out!" Kael said to him.


    "Okay okay! We will resume our travel for now! Please check if you are all complete?" The coachman said to them.


    "We are complete! Let''s go!" Said Frank.


    "Hiya!" The coachman whipped the horse. It continued to pull the carriage towards their destination. They went further towards the foggy road. Having been deceived by the fog was making Kael shaken. He didn''t know what will happen if Kelvin was not there. He contemplated it for some time.


    "Hey, are you still thinking about it?" Kelvin asked him.


    "I know that you will be okay even though you are all alone. But I just helped because we will leave at that time. I know you can survive it even though without me." Kelvin said to him.


    "You are mistaken, Kelvin. I needed a little shake at that time. Maybe I will think about putting my guard up at all times even though it was still not so dangerous at that time. You see, I needed you too sometimes." Kael said to him.


    "Hahaha! Just look at the two of you! You are all weak! You deserve to be cannon fodders if you are that weak! Hahaha! But don''t worry! We will protect you, weaklings!" Said Frank to them.


    Kael looked at him with dead eyes then he looked at Kelvin. Kelvin nodded in response to him. They then whistled to him.


    "Hey! Are you kidding me? You wanna get kicked in the face thrash!" Said Frank to them.


    Kelvin heard it and stopped whistling. He responded to his words.


    "Nah, I advise you to refrain from such actions. We don''t want to beat each other while we don''t finish the mission. You see, we have to be in the best conditions while we were fighting the spiders. Creating a discord now will make our teamwork to be in shackles right?" Kelvin said to him.


    Frank laughed at his words.


    "You will be on your own when you will be attacked by spiders. Right boys!? Hahaha! Don''t expect help from us if you have that attitude! A carrier has to act as a carrier! You should act like one! You know that! You have to swallow your pride and act as carriers!" Frank shouted at them.


    "Okay! We are carriers and there is nothing we can do about it. Right right! Got it! We will shut up now and enjoy the rest of the way shall we?" Said Kelvin.


    Kael then thumbs up at him. Kelvin then smiled.


    "Damn these carriers!", Frank said to them.


    "Frank! Don''t overdo it. They were our comrades and we should each other like one." Said Sam to him.


    "I am sorry if that disturbs you. You should understand that Frank hates weaklings the most. You aren''t weak are you?" Sam asked them.


    "We can manage it! We were adventurers too right? We were not rank D minus for nothing." Kelvin said to them.


    "Hah! You were just leeching off at another party! How could a mere combatant be a rank D minus? No one will believe that lies!" Frank said to them.


    Kael and Kelvin sighed at the fact that they were not believable and they don''t have hard evidence to back their claim.


    "I guess we will just shut up for now. I will rest and enjoy the ride." Kael said to him.


    They quieted down a bit and cooled off a bit the rest of the way. They traveled for miles in that foggy forest. The coachman was an expert on handling situations on the way. Having no problems while on the road was an exemplary feat for them. No ambush happened while they were on the way. They can only hear voices when they were outside. Without the fog inside the carriage, they were having a great time and no one disturbed their journey. Kael can only see the top of the trees outside and that was not covered by the fog. The fog was thinning and they finally exited the Geralt forest.


    ''The Geralt forest, I will find out what secrets it holds.'' Kael said in his mind.


    They exited the forest and have seen that the forest ends there where the fog ends. The rest of the way was the grassy plains of the Elmia or called the Elmia plains. Having small hills on the way and the greenery was a sight to behold.


    "Hey, Kael look! Rabbits were hopping! And sheep too!" Kelvin shouted.


    He saw that the plains were peaceful and Kael looked outside. He saw that they have fences to protect the animals from the bears or wolves. While on the way, farms were seen and barns from the farmers can be seen from the road. The road towards the edge of the Dwight territory was muddy and they were having a great time. Up ahead, they saw a great river that was coming from the mountain tops. Forming into brooks until it was becoming a river. He saw that the carriages were passing by the bridge of Elmia. It was one of the bridges of Dwight. They were on the bridge and Kael looked observantly at the rushing river.


    "First time seeing it?" Asked Ann to Kael.


    "Yeah! Hey Kelvin it was your first too? Right?" Kael asked Kelvin.


    "Yeah!" He replied.


    The two of them looked at it until they passed by the bridge. Now that they passed it,  they were now sitting properly. They chatted along the way but Kael and Kelvin were silent. Chatting on the topics about their past journeys while on the way. Frank boasted about their accomplishments and he was telling them that he has subjugated an orc in the past. He has also slain a Hobgoblin. Kael and Kelvin thought that he was not just prideful of his achievements but also was looking down on them because of it. Kael considered his achievements to be that lame. Even though he has a job class that was on his arsenal.


    Looking at it. Kelvin was silent along the way. Kael was observing them and he thought that it would be best to be silent about the fact that he already copied their job classes. It was all thanks to his system that he already have their job class. Even though he has copied them, he was not that happy though he saw that the job classes that he obtained were all low leveled ones. The highest level was level twelve paladin which he gets from their leader Frank. The others were level three priest, level five rogue, level six fighter, level four ranger, level six swordsman, level five knight, level seven mage, level four warrior. He expected it because they were not attending the academy and the noble''s families of Dwights already have their job class. They were taught since they were young in their family''s job class. Like the Combat class families (nobles)


    1. Families of swordsmen, Guzlavs


    2. Families of rouges, Brandels


    3. Families of paladins, Leomurds


    4. Families of warriors, Dmitrivs


    5. Families of priests, Neons


    6. Families of Knights, Vyancheslavs


    7. Families of rangers, Abavels


    8. Families of mages, Howarts


    9. Families of fighters, Rezhearths


    They were called the families that the founder of Dwight kingdom has assembled and created the kingdom together with them. It was what Kael and Kelvin have read in their libraries located at their underground archives.

 129 Geralt village

    The onlooker''s reactions were mixed. Others were amazed, the kids saw them as heroes, and the other adults saw them as green leaves. Kael was carrying his bag, the other citizens were seeing him as a pitiful slave of the adventurers. It was not a problem for Kael because he carries a weightless bag. He can''t help but smile deeply. Both of them were getting some eyes looking at them. They went to a tavern and entered together. With their leader Frank, they marched inside the tavern.


    He went to the counter and asked the lady receptionist. She was young and was in her twenties. She was elegant with her black long hair that goes to her waist. She has brown commoner''s clothes that were being covered with a white apron. She smiled at them and Frank throws a conversation at her.


    "Hello, miss! We would like to eat and drink! What''s your meal this time?" He asked.


    She was baffled by the presence of the adventurers and thus replied.


    "Are you adventurers perhaps? We gladly welcome you all here. Our meal will be grilled chicken and mead! We will serve you all just a moment." She said to them.


    Frank and the others went to find a seat and secured two tables for them. Kael was just following them and Kelvin was just following Kael. They sat on the table located on the right side of the tavern. There were also drunkards on the left side of the tables and this they picked the right side. Never wanting to have a commotion and fistfight in the tavern so they avoided them.


    They waited for several minutes and their food arrived. With the food still hot and steamy, they ate their portion. Frank tapped Kael''s shoulders and talked. He was semi-drunk at the mead that they drank.


    "Come on Frank! We will find an inn sooner due to him being drunk! Now the two of you! Enjoy your meal and we will scout an inn." Said their knight, Anton.


    They carried him and they went outside. The others finished eating and went on their way for the inn. The two of them also followed the drunk Frank and the others. Kael was lightheaded at that time so he went to find an inn. They saw what they were finding just a few meters from the tavern. A small inn that was only two floors and was made of wood. They entered and checked in. The room smelled roasted meat and they entered their rooms. They all went sleeping. Kael and Kelvin puts the bag on the floor and went to sleep. The room was small with two beds and just three meters wide. A small window on the front of the room between the two beds. The beds were made with wood and has a cushion of hay inside it. Having drunk a bit made them sleepy and it was the moment for sleeping. Time went by and the outside went dark. Stars were just in the sky, glittering and dancing up ahead. Kael woke up in the middle of the night and he also woke up Kelvin.


    "Hey, Kelvin! I''m hungry! Let''s eat in the tavern!" Kael said to him.


    Kelvin woke up but still half asleep. He moaned and get to sleep again.


    "Hey wake up! I need to eat!" Kael said as he shakes him again.


    "Wha? What!?" He shouted after he opened his eyes. Having been surprised by Kael''s call, he immediately stands up and looked at him.


    "Let''s eat first then go back to sleep. My tummy is calling forth food and I have to do something about it." Kael said to him.


    "Okay okay! But let''s get equipped first! I don''t wanna go around here unarmed. It doesn''t feel right." Kelvin said as he grabbed his sword.


    Upon equipping, they smiled while getting dressed in their adventurer attire. Kael grabbed his sword shield and puts it on his back. The potion belt was worn and the weights were put on his arms and legs. Kelvin too put on his armor. He was ready to fight anytime with his equipment. They exited their room and went towards the tavern just a few steps away.


    The village was quiet at the night. With few barks of dogs in the surroundings and accompanied by their howls, it was very creepy for them. The villagers were in their homes at night. They were disciplined people and were not roaming around in the night. Few torches were present beside the road and it lighted the way with their radiance. They walked towards the tavern and entered the door. Upon their entrance, they were looked upon by the three people dressed up as a mercenary. They were bearded and one of them was bald. They have leather armor and swords on their waist.


    "Hey were you adventurers? You have traveled far! What is your business here in our village? Let me guess! Monsters?" The bald one asked.


    "Um yes. We were investigating the spider lair miles from here. Can you tell me something about it?" Kael asked him.


    "Lads you''re still young! I advise you to be careful. Recently, there were missing people that were reported from us and we were hired to guard the village. Up until you adventurers will be able to kill them all. Can I ask your numbers?" Ask the bald one.


    "We were eleven in numbers. A single one of each job class and two combatants. That two were us." Said Kael.


    Kelvin looked at Kael then nodded. The bald one nearly coughed his drink.


    "You mean you will assault their lair with just the eleven of you? Well if you all have a job class then you can manage. And the two of you have no job class? What is your position then? Carriers?" He spouted at them.


    "Yes! And we can manage! But still, it made me curious about the lair. After hearing our numbers, you are still worried. Can you make my doubts clear?" Asked Kael.


    "You were underestimating your enemies. They were roughly hundreds in numbers. Considering that they were weak but in their numbers, they will attack you by flooding you all. We were being attacked by several of them and we managed. It was their hunters. The kidnappers of the citizens. In the past, they were not behaving like that. But in this past month, they began abducting people. Many villagers were already lost. The numbers of the villagers here dwindled. As time goes by, the villagers were one by one dragged to their lair. They were active at night. In some cases, some attacked in broad daylight. We should be alert by now and patrol the village. Having a little talk with you was fun. We should go patrolling now." The bald one said.


    They left and Kael ordered food. The waiter went to them and served them goat milk and cheese. The roasted pork was served and she left.


    "Let''s eat first and join the mercenaries," Kael said to Kelvin.


    "I have slept a bit for the whole day so I have the energy to patrol for now," Kelvin said to Kael.


    They ate the food and drank the milk. They both burped and paid for the food. They exited the tavern and let out the floating lantern. It illuminated the darkness and far brighter than the torches. They went to the town square first and proceeded to their patrol.


    "Let''s go!" Kael said to Kelvin.

 130 Night patrol

    They went to walk in the street of the village. Having a light to brighten the way, they walk steadfastly. The village was silent in the night and the moon appeared as the clouds unblock its radiance. Howls of dogs were heard as they step on the pathway. The houses were small, just enough for their family to dwell. Houses are made of wood and have small fences in their yard to keep monsters at bay. Whether they like it or not, it was what they can only afford. They were not impoverished but still, they were lacking.


    The night breeze was cold and the crickets started to sing their melodious song. They heard it and the night felt calmer. They walked for minutes as they observed the village. It was carefully laid out. A street was leading towards the town square and there were houses beside the road. It was straight up until the hill towards the house of their lord''s manor. Torches were lit along the path and it goes straight towards the hill. Making lights along the path. The clouds were moving in the skies slowly and were seen as the moon was shining upon them. Crows cawed as they flew in the distance. Kael heard it and it was a bad omen.


    "Kael, this village was creepy. We were walking for minutes now but it was eerily quiet. It seems that the villagers were awake but they were waiting for something. I can see others who were closing their windows as they peeked at us. They were watching us!" Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Maybe they were nervous about the spiders that were attacking at night. Let''s check it out if it was true or not." Kael said to him.


    "Yeah! Maybe they were quite relieved a bit because we were roaming around. Shall we shout all is well at them so they will get to sleep?" Kelvin said to him.


    "Nah, it was better to be silent for now. We don''t know if we will attract unwanted attention." Kael said to him calmly.


    "I don''t know how big these spiders were but I have read that they were as big as horses. The babies were as big as wolves and the mothers were big enough to be as tall as a small house! They were weak to fire damage if they were frost spiders. They were also afraid of light and most damages except poison damages." Kelvin said to Kael.


    "Yeah, I have studied them too in the past. But they were agile and fast. They will be tricky to kill because they were a cunning race. They were a hunter species. Most of them can jump on high buildings and can sprint silently. They were fast that''s why they were dangerous." Kael added what he knows.


    "That''s very knowledgeable of you! You have studied them deeper than I thought!" Kelvin added.


    "I have studied them but not that deep. Their poison sac can be used as a poison ingredient or a weapon coating. They have that purpose." Kael added.


    "Hmmm, come to think of it. The mercenary said to us that in the past months they began becoming active and attacking villagers. There is a possibility that they became aggressive because of Fallens. Or just plain reasons like hunger. But still, in the past decades, it didn''t happen. Was it just plain hunger that drives them to attack here?" Kelvin asked him.


    "I don''t know but I have investigated the Kobolds in the past and they became intelligent. They were manufacturing their weapons and it was what happened in the Hentana cave. I don''t know what happens in the other parts of Lumia but I hypothesize that it was caused by Fallens. There were also dungeon gates that were appearing on some parts of the Lumia. It will be challenging to eradicate them all but I know that the kingdoms were moving to make plans for that problem." Kael explained to him.


    "So we will be putting that burden to the kingdom?" Kelvin asked.


    Kael was baffled by his question. He smiled and answered him.


    "What do you think adventuring is my friend? We were working and get paid by helping the menial tasks that the kingdom has to offer. We are adventuring at the same time getting stronger. We were no help to the adults right now but you see, we are getting stronger day by day. We are the system holders, right? We are gifted! But don''t get it on your mind. We are still weak right now! Your system was for job-class growth, right? As long as you train your job-class, you will be boosted and your job-class level will rise further than the rest of the system holders!" Kael explained to him.


    "Wait how did you know all this?" Kelvin asked him curiously.


    "It''s because of my system. I asked about the other system holders." Kael explained.


    "Oh! So that''s how you did it! Then what''s yours?" Kelvin asked.


    Kael smiled and he answered.


    "The Imitator system!" Kael said to him.


    "You have what?" Kelvin almost shouted.


    "Yeah! And I can imitate your job class. I don''t know if it was restricted to only job class but maybe I still don''t know everything right now. We should get stronger when we became academy students. Right?" Kael said to him.


    "Yeah let''s get stronger!" Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah!" Kael said to him.


    Kael offered his fist and Kelvin replied with a fist bump. They continued their walk and then was happily talking.


    They were having a great time while walking and has walked far enough to arrive in the middle of the village. It was when they suddenly heard a scream. Loud enough for them to hear it.


    Aaaaahhhhh!!!


    A girl''s voice was heard by both of them. Located just up ahead.


    "Kael! Let''s investigate the voice! We need to hurry!" Kelvin blurted out as he dashed.


    "I know I know!" Kael replied to him.


    They both dashed to where the voice was coming from and they drew their swords. Both of them went to where the voice was coming from. Dashing with all their strength to save the ones who screamed. Just ahead, they saw a house and the couples were hugging each other. The man was hugging his wife and they were crying. Kael and Kelvin went to approach them while running. The floating lantern has brightened up the darkness and they were immediately seen. Both of them went running and was seen by the couple. The man approached them and was sobbing. He immediately kneeled at the two of them. They were seen but only they were not clearly distinguished as young ones. Their shadows were seen as adult adventurers and their faces were dark due to the floating light was behind them.


    "Help! Please! Please! Save my daughter! She was taken by a spider! She must be saved! The spider left just seconds ago! Please save her! I am crippled and I can only hold her hands as she was dragged! Please!" The man said to the two of them.


    "Rest assured sir! Where did they leave? Can you point to me where?" Kael asked him.


    The man pointed out where they left. Located at the northeast from where they were standing.


    "There! There! Please hurry and save her!" He said to him.


    The light was still lighting up the darkness and from the shadows appeared arachnids who were as big as dogs. They have multiple eyes who reflected the light from the floating lantern. The man shrieked as he saw them. Kael can not help to be annoyed. He considered them as blunders to what his goal was.


    "Kelvin please stay here and protect them. I should hurry up and get to know my enemies. I have a life to save." Kael said then dashed on his way.


    Kelvin held his sword and prepared for combat. He saw seven baby spiders and he was surrounded by them.


    "Hurry Kael and save her! Damn these pesky arachnids!" Kelvin said while he holds his sword.


    Kael went to find the enemy kidnapper. He left his floating lantern to the village where Kelvin was fighting. It was not needed for him due to he discovered something.


    "I might check how my system works. I might try this if it will work." Kael said as he ran.


    "System! Equip Ranger job-class!" Kael said.


    [Ranger job class equipped]


    [Level 4 Ranger available]

 131 Night patrol part 2

    "System! Equip Ranger job-class!" Kael said to the system.


    [Ranger job class equipped]


    [Level 4 Ranger available]


    Kael can''t help but be amazed. All his hunch became true and it was what he needs currently. After he has achieved great success, he immediately tested it out. His excitement for testing out his job-class was unquenchable. Having been able to equip one was only the start and it was also the reason that his heart raced. He was never been so excited before. All he could do was smile as he ran to the forest. Thinking about his new skills, he can not stop his heart to throb. His pulse became intense and he can''t stop his excitement. He was like a child that has found a new toy to play with.


    Having all his excitement, he was eager to know what skills he has gained. He checked his skills to confirm it and his heart skipped a beat.


    "Status! Job-class section!" He asked the system.


    [Job Class Level 4 Ranger]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Trap assembly


    B. Blink: Flash step


    C. Mastery: Dagger mastery, Bow mastery, Light armor mastery, Dexterity mastery, Forest adaptation mastery, Marksmanship mastery.


    D. Buff: Hunter''s instinct, Hunter''s vision, Forest blessing, Hide.


    E. Debuff: Forest adversary


    F. Burst: Dagger strike, Rapid arrow shots, Snipe.


    .....


    He was amazed at the skills. He was looking at it and was amazed despite it was still level four. He used the most immediate and needed for the current situation.


    [Hunter''s vision]


    He immediately saw the spider from afar. All life force within the forest were glowing red. He saw birds from the trees, the deers from afar. The wolves that were hiding in their lair. He even saw the ants and insects from the dark. His vision was clear and he was like looking from night vision goggles. He saw that the girl was dragged by the spider. The girl was fighting off so it made the spider have a little bit of difficulty to drag her.


    [Hunter''s instinct]


    He immediately knows an immediate danger from his instinct. It was more like a refined hunch from his perspective.


    He can not use dagger skills if he did not have one. Luckily, he has his twin daggers on his back. Bow skills too will not be available for his disposal because he hasn''t been holding one in the meantime.


    He felt that he can take on any enemy in the meantime. He equipped his daggers and put his sword shield on his back. It reminded him of his dagger techniques in the past and incorporated his learning to the upcoming battle. Having been released of his potential felt a great difference compared to the past. He held his dagger and still looking at the enemy.


    Kael didn''t make the mistake of choosing the Ranger class. He has the advantage when it comes to the forest and has the greatest upper hand when it comes to the forest. With his skills on hand, he will be the greatest hunter when it comes to the forest.


    Kael didn''t mind his presence and saw the spider be dragging the child. The girl was crying and was shouting as she was dragged. Kael can not help to waste any second and to sneak attack the enemy. He chose a frontal assault on the enemy. Without further ado, he jumped at the enemy. The spider then evaded his attack and has let go of its hold on the child. Kael then saw her crying and sobbing.


    "Hey, kid! Are you okay?" Kael asked her.


    She was only sobbing and hicking. No replies were made for him. Kael felt alarmed, he thought that the girl was traumatized and accepted her fate to die. Kael then gave her a health potion. She gulped it and her wounds on her legs and arms were healed. She was still hicking and her hands were shaking. Kael didn''t know how to console her to relax thus he hugged her.


    "It''s going to be okay. I will protect you." Kael said to her as he saw the spiders be getting numerous.


    He saw that they were surrounded by them. He counted them off and they were more than his fingers can count. They were more than ten. The spider called off its brethren and they surrounded them with great numbers. Shrieking and growling at the two of them. Kael felt alarmed and he didn''t know what to do. He needs to secure the kid''s safety first. He was being handicapped by the fact that he needs to protect her. He needs to attack the enemies and protect her at the same time.


    He was struck with an idea in his mind. He grabbed her and he gave her the cloak that he has. They ran and he activated the skill that boosts his stats as long as he was in the forest.


    [Forest blessing]


    He dashed further from the enemies and used his skill to her. A skill that will make her invisible as long as she won''t move. They successfully outrun the enemies and then hides in one of the large trees. Big enough to hide her with its big roots.


    [Hide]


    "Stay here and I will come back," Kael instructed her.


    He then looked back and then appeared at the enemies.


    "Come here! I will fight you all if you want!" Kael shouted at them.


    The enemies felt unfazed by his shout. They were only laughing inside and was laughing in their language. They saw him with no company and thus they felt that they will be killing him with their numbers. They approached him to step by step and closer as the second pass by.


    Kael reverse gripped his daggers. He was crouching like he was ready to go anytime. He saw that the enemies were getting nearer and nearer. The spiders initiated the attack and in split second, three jumped at him. Kael saw it and he was surprised by their agility. They were fast on their movement speed even in their attack speed. Kael was baffled by it so he made a contingency plan for their attack. While they were in mid-air. Kael used his blink skill [Flash step]. Getting out from their attack range.


    In just a split second, he felt the power from his feet to surge and he evaded their attack.


    "Whoa! So this is it? The feeling of using a skill! I felt that some of my mana was consumed a bit but it was satisfying!" Kael said in his surprise.


    He saw that they were also surprised by his sudden movement. They were perplexed but yet unfazed. They launched their second attack on him and jumped. Kael sidesteps a bit and he evaded their assault. He then used his skill [Dagger strike]. Launching his self to the enemy then trusting his daggers towards his target. He succeeded in his stab and the enemy was killed by it. He felt that the spider went limp as he drives through his dagger.    "Eleven spiders were left," Kael said as he turned at them.


    His skill [Flash step] and [Dagger strike] went to cooldown. He felt that it was unusable for the moment. His [Forest blessing] also fades its effects and went to cool down. He can only rely on his pure combat prowess which was his dagger techniques.


    He launched his attack towards them and then went on a rampage. The spider launched its jumping attack to him but instead of evading, he stiffened his body and collided with it. He stabbed it then twisted his dagger. He then throws it towards his side and the others were stupified by it. They were enraged and then attack him altogether. Kael ducked and rolled over towards the side thus evaded their strike. He then dashed towards them when they collided with each other. Having the opportunity can only come once or twice in a battle so he grabbed the opportunity to attack them while they were still confused.


    He dashed after he rolled over then stabbed one of them. They regained their composure and resumed attacking. He killed yet another one and they were now only ten. They surrounded him again and attacked in succession after one another. Kael stabbed each one of them that attacked him without fail while fending them off. They were left limping on the ground as Kael whips his daggers.


    He went find the girl who he left and when he went back to where she was hidden, she was nowhere to be seen.


    "Damn! I didn''t think she would left!" Kael cursed.


    Kael nearly collapsed as he felt betrayed. His efforts to save her will be for naught if she will be found dead. While accepting the reality, Kael''s heart raced and was full of worry. He used again his skill to locate her.


    [Hunter''s vision]


    He saw her running towards the village to where Kelvin was.


    "Damn! She can''t wait for me?" Kael nearly shouted in annoyance.

 132 Night patrol part 3

    "Hide inside your home now! Lock your doors and windows! Now go!" Kelvin exclaimed with all his might.


    They immediately followed his instructions. They hastily ran inside and lock the door. Kael was left alone and he was surrounded by the spiders. He grinned at the fact that he can slay them all out without worries. He gripped his sword and prepared for a fight.


    "Let''s see what you can do and how strong you are! Come!" Kelvin shouted.


    They hesitated a bit at first but they suddenly attacked. Kael held his sword and swings it in a wide arc horizontally. The three spiders were immediately sliced with his sword.


    Swish!


    "Damn! This sword is not a joke! It was sharper than it looks!" Kelvin shouted in excitement.


    His elusive self vanished and he went all out. Having enchanted armor and swords made his reserved self to be unleashed. He launched his attacks towards them. Five spiders jumped at him and Kael saw them coming. He gripped again his sword and then slashed them. Rotating his body three times as they attacked him.


    Swish!


    They were sliced like butter. Goo and their blood splattered in split second. The others were perplexed by it and they can not help but think twice before attacking him. They have seen a monster that annihilated their kind. They saw him be stronger than they imagined him to be. They underestimated him even though he was only solo. One of them shrieked and they immediately fired up. Their lost courage was once again lit. Having one of them encouraged them made them different a second ago.


    Shriek!!!


    They all shrieked at Kelvin. They all intimidated him and to make him lose his courage. They thought that he will cower at them when intimidated. Their voice chorused in the night and it was all heard by the citizens. Kelvin, on the contrary, was waiting for them to finish. They were still shrieking for several seconds and was not planning on stopping. Kelvin got bored and attacked when it was when they were least prepared.


    He dashed and then went towards the others. He slashed them with a burst of movements. The spider jumped on his back and bite off his helm.


    Ting!


    It made a sound as he was bitten. Despite the effort of the spider, it didn''t even make his armor to be pierced through. Neither a scratch was made on his helm. Kelvin felt annoyed by the spider that was on his back. The spider also felt that he was in great danger. It jumped backward but Kelvin was fast enough to slice it in half. Only a dead body was thrown to the ground as it jumped away from him. Kelvin then dashed to the others. Making slashes to the ones he has passed through. He saw that the enemy numbers were getting numerous. They were beyond his fingers can count.


    They were all over the place. Some were on the houses, some were on the top of the roofs. Some were also on the road and others were on the walls. Kelvin slashed anything that pounces at him. The spiders were all over the place. Kelvin then observed and saw from afar the other adventurers who were fighting them off. He thought that they will be alright as they were adventurers. He was worried about them but it will be his self first to worry. He was also worrying about Kael but he was confident that he will be okay.


    He was running and he was chased by the spiders. Others were jumping at him and he was evading them while he can. Some were sliced off by his sword. He dashed towards the open and plans to fight them there. With the floating lantern on his head, he can see the enemies.


    "With my light, they will have a hard time approaching me. I will be having a great time leveling up with this." Kelvin said to himself.


    "Come at me if you can!" Kael shouted.


    He held his sword with all his might and prepared for another round of the fight. He breathed long and deep to calm himself.


    Without taking a long time, he was assaulted with numerous enemies. He was bashed left and right by their bodies. Kelvin can''t help but coughed a bit.


    "They were too many! I need to get serious right now." Kelvin said to himself.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    He was bashed by them. Some were biting his armor but it was not making any effect. He was being piled up by the enemies. He swatted the ones who were flying at him by his sword and the others were bashed by his arms. Flicking them sideways while they were piling at him. He slashed them while rotating his body and it made them blown by his sheer force.


    He was the target of many enemies and it was thanks to his armor that he was not getting any damage so far. But even though he has armor, he was constantly battered by bashing damage. Heavy armors were weak to bashing damage and light armor was weak to slashing and piercing damage. He was enduring the constant damage that was put to him. Thanks to the armor''s enchantments, he was constantly regenerating without problems. He was getting annoyed by them so he gritted his teeth and used all his force to fend them off. He was attacked on the back and he slashed it. Others were heavy enough to be colliding their body with him.


    He breakthrough to their encirclement and he was drenched on goo. The spiders who piled at him jumped again towards his direction. He stopped running and saw that numerous enemies were in mid-air and was jumping towards him. He gripped his sword and then battered anyone who was going to pounce at him.


    "Come! Come! Come! Bloody bastards!" Kelvin shouted.


    "Haaaaaaa!!!" He was screaming while he was waiting for them to arrive.


    Swish! Swish! Swish!


    He slashed anything that comes towards him. Putting all his strength to his slashes while doing it rapidly. He slashed one enemy and its halved body was thrown to his back. The same to the next spider he slashed. He stands his ground and the enemy perished on his blade. He never failed to slash anything that comes towards him but his stamina regeneration can not keep up with his output. One slammed its body and he stopped its momentum. His feet were moved a bit but he stopped it. The spider was wriggling on his arms thus he stabbed it with his sword. Making it lifeless on his arms.


    The other spiders were also coming at him. He was slicing it off with his sword and was almost running dry on stamina. Other spiders jumped at him and it collided with his armor.


    Bang!


    He was thrown a bit due to the heavyweight it has. Kelvin was thrown to the ground and he was assaulted by its face while he was underneath it. Kelvin was panting but he was pushing its face away from him. He pulled his dagger and stabbed it right into its eyes. Stabbing it three times and it shrieked to the pain until its life has left it. He throws it away and grabbed his sword that was thrown a bit when he was attacked. He stands up and then saw that the enemies were not diminishing but was getting numerous.


    "I have to survive this if I want to be worthy of being Kael''s partner. Even though I am weak now, I should get stronger faster. I have to be strong to be able to avenge my mother''s death and to punish the fallen who killed her. These enemies will be my experience points and my level will rise as this onslaught will go further. I gotta last that long to be able to level up fast." Kael said as he gasped air.

 133 Night patrol part 4

    [Hunter''s vision]


    He saw the heat of the girl far from him. The vision he has was like night vision. He detected her to be running away from him. He dashed towards her as he saw that she was surrounded by the spiders. They were gathering to chase her and Kael felt alarmed when he saw enemies were coming for her.


    [Forest blessings]


    He was blessed by the forest and his stats were boosted partially by the forest as long as he was in the forest. His speed was now doubled as his other passive skill has activated.


    [Forest adaptation mastery]


    His maneuvers in the forest became more fluid. His skill was helping him to be in tune with the forest.


    [Hunter''s instict]


    He used his skill and he felt that his sixth sense was telling him to hurry up. He felt imminent danger was coming. Having felt it, he hurried with his movements. Running with all he can and dashing with all his might. He can hear his deep long breath and his footsteps while running. He saw that she was getting nearer as time goes by. He passed by the large trees and he was seeing her heat from afar. He was stepping on the leaves of the trees and it was sounding as he steps.


    The girl was hiding on the root of the tree. Her heart was racing as she was breathing in and out to calm herself. She can hear the battle of her savior to be commencing. She hides with her cloak and she felt safe to be hiding on the roots. She can feel that a spell was cast on her and she felt that it was protecting her to be invisible. She saw spiders to be roaming around her and was holding her breath. Being in the process of hiding was helping herself to be calming and her heartbeat was slowing down. She can feel that the spell was hindering the monsters to be able to detect her. As time goes on, she was observing the spiders to be roaming in the forest. Some were going to the village and some were going to his savior''s direction.


    She was watching them and felt that the spell was fading. She thought that the spell was not lasting forever. Having discovered it, she felt it to be alarming. She saw that the spiders were getting nearer and nearer. Her heart raced once again and her breathing was becoming frantic.


    In split seconds, it ran towards her and then jumped to her face. Her heart skipped a beat but she managed to evade its attack. She dashed towards her savior but it was blocked by many more spiders. She saw him be fighting the other spiders and she froze on the spot.


    "Help me." She said but it was muffled.


    She used her strength to shout but she has no strength to speak after she saw that he was battling the enemies. She thought that she will only be a blunder on him when she will approach him. Making him protect her will make him disadvantaged in the battle.


    Not knowing what to do, she ran towards the direction of her home. She disposed of her thoughts of going towards the adventurer that saved her. Running towards where her parents were.


    The girl was running with a cloak on her body. She was desperately running away from the spiders that were chasing her. She pants as she was running out of the air as she ran. Having been chased was very horrible for her and she was getting desperate as she was running out of air. Even though she was desperately clinging on to her poor life, she was not letting go even though it was only a needle that she was holding on to.


    She was running as she heard the shrieking of the spiders from her back. Both of her sides were also making noise that was creeping her out.


    Shriek!!! Shriek!!!


    They were getting louder and louder as time goes by. She was horrified enough when she was dragged away from her parents. But still more horrified by more spiders. She thought that if she was eaten alive then it was better to be dragged and be eaten later. It was pretty much the same ending but she thought that it will be better than to be eaten alive later than sooner.


    She ran without looking back. Clenching on her savior''s cloak as she ran. Tears were flowing from her cheeks. Sobbing and crying while running.


    "Mom! Dad!" She shouted with her little voice.


    This time she has summoned the strength and shouted. She felt that it was her last time calling out her parents so she called out them. She let out her last cry and then she stumbled on one of the roots of the tree.


    Bang!


    Her body slammed to the leaves on the ground. She sobbed as she was getting up. She then saw that she was surrounded by the spiders. She felt dread as she lifted her head and accepted her fate. Her will to live was extinguished and she accepted her fate.


    The spider jumped at her and her legs were still aching due to her tripping. She tried to move but she failed to do so. Her body felt cold after she realized that her body was not moving. She saw the spider be jumping at her and can only close her teary eyes. Accepting her fate to what will happen next.


    [Dagger strike]


    Swish!


    She opened her eyes and saw that she was watching the spider to be stabbed. She lifted her eyes and saw her savior once again. Watching him while he was lifting the spider and she was watching his back. He has clothes and was wearing leather armor. Having a big sword on his back.


    She wiped her tears and she felt relieved.


    "It''s okay now. I am here." Kael said to her.


    Kael throws the body of the spider and then cast a skill at her.


    [Hide]


    She disappeared in their presence after he used the skill. The spiders were perplexed and they immediately attacked Kael.


    Kael saw them but he was left unfazed. He breathed long and deep while closing his eyes. He opened it and then cast another spell.


    [Forest adversary]


    It was a skill that was acting as a debuff to the enemies. With his skill being used, the enemies felt alarmed. They felt great worry and depressed when they were cast with the skill. The forest went quiet and it became loud as the animals made a stampede. All animals within the perimeter came and attacked them. A bear came and mauled at the spiders. The crows attacked them as they peck their eyes. Wolves were on their pack and attacked the spiders. They bite off the legs of the spiders. The birds were also helping to distract the spiders.


    The girl saw it and she was amazed while looking at them. She saw him as a hero, she imagined him to be wearing a cape on his back while looking at him. They were in chaos and there was a battlefield all over the place. The bear was swiping its paws at the spiders. The spiders were stepping back a bit to its attacks. The wolves then assisted the bear and bite off the spider who stepped back.


    Kael was amazed by his skill. It was his first time too to look at how majestic it was. He smiled at the fact that it was only a level four ranger and he was not expecting it to be that strong. He joined the fray and attacked others who were escaping. He eliminated the other ones who were trying to escape. Running and stabbing them with his dagger.


    [Dagger strike]


    He stabbed the enemy and the other animals were helping him. All the enemies were eliminated and the animals left. His skill expires and then they left without making any other interactions to Kael. It was utter chaos that was on the battlefield with dead bodies of arachnids.


    "It was okay now! We will go to your family." Kael said to her.


    She was shy and then he grabbed her hands. He carried her in his arms and went to the village.


    "Do you want to see your parents?" Kael asked her.


    "Yes!" She replied then she went in tears.

 134 Night patrol part 5

    Kelvin observed them as they approached. Waiting for them to attack first. He was holding his sword with his two hands and exhaled deeply. He was standing still as he held his sword. His face was trickled by his sweat. His exhaling made his face to be hot as steamy air was let out from his breath. Making his helm to be sweaty as he breathed into it. He calmed himself to regain enough stamina before the fight begins. Having enough amount of stamina before the enemies will attack him was an important factor for him to win the fight. This will be a battle of endurance if he wants to win.


    Several seconds have passed and his stamina was slowly increasing. He can feel that his fatigue was slowly fading. Even though the enemies were not attacking him, they were only getting numerous. He was killing the time and was gaining enough time to recuperate. Time was his only problem but it was also his enemy. As time goes by, the enemies will be getting numerous. It will be harder to kill them.


    He was alarmed by it but can not help but to wait. Wait for his stamina to recuperate. He stands there firmly while holding his sword. He was observing the enemies and then one spider initiated the attack. It jumped at him from the back. Knowing where the enemy was, he slashed it with a horizontal swing. Cutting it into the half with a swing that was wide in an arc. The others were alarmed and thus they made their move. They attacked in unison while jumping at him. Kelvin focused himself on the fight. In a matter of a second, the enemies that jumped at him were ten in numbers. Three were in his front, two on both sides, and three were on the rooftop of the nearby building. He first prepared on the enemies on the front. He gripped his sword and made a diagonal slash in the three in the front.


    Swish!


    "Haaaaaa!!!" Kelvin shouted as he slammed the skewered spider.


    The enemies were still not reduced to half. It was still the start. The other spiders were aiming for him and it will be a bloody fight. They were coming at him with great numbers. He prepared himself to be paraded with rushing enemies. He was attacked in all directions. Despite it all, he stayed calm and slashed anything that he can see. He stabbed some and throws them sideways. It crashed into the other spiders as he threw them. The others were landing hits with their legs on his armor. With a stabbing action of their legs as they attacked. Kelvin''s armor was not pierced but it was battered by their attacks. Making him flinched a bit from their rapid attacks.


    He was annoyed by it so he slashed their incoming legs.


    Swish! Swish! Swish!


    They shrieked as their legs were cut. Goo went out from their wounds and he attacked them. Slashing them to half who''s legs were cut. Making them end their agony as the mercy killed them. It was utter chaos as he butchered them. His sword was enchanted with an enchantment called [Enchant: Sharpness]. It was the same enchantment from Kael''s sword where he fought the snakes.


    He slashed them with speed. In split second, he slashed two enemies who were jumping at him. He managed to defeat them in split seconds. Even though he was fast enough, he was surrounded by spiders in all directions. Attacking enemies on the front made him open for attacks at the back. He was attacking with speed to counter them. Managing to fend off two, he was assaulted again in the back. Making him be in a difficult situation.


    Slash!!!


    He swings his sword with power behind it. In the process of being in the range of his strike, they were slashed without difficulty. He attacks aggressively to change the tides of battle. He partially evaded some of their attacks but he was still hit by some of them. He moves forward as he strikes them. He slew orcs in the past and it was when he was blessed by the Angel. It was not the same but he felt a very nostalgic feeling. He attacks faster as they can''t defend his attacks. It was the only offense that they know so Kelvin attacked them mercilessly.


    The tides of battle shifted to Kelvin. He was slashing them with a rapidly rising slash on his left and right. Fending off their attacks and killing them at the same time. He continued his onslaught and slashed them with fierceness. Some who jumped at him were fended off. The enemies all jumped at him and he was piled up with them. Kelvin felt their heavy bodies but he rotated himself. Having the strength to do so was surprised by the spiders that he was able to move his body despite their heaviness.


    He rotated while slashing them. It was not able to hinder his movements in the slightest bit.


    "Haaaaaa!!!" Kelvin shouted as he sliced them off.


    The enemies were either thrown from his force or slashed by his sword.


    Bang! Bang! Bang!


    Others crashed to the ground and others flew to the houses. They were all perplexed by his strength. He was able to destroy their piled bodies as their last resort and final trump card. He saw them coming again towards him and Kelvin was amazed by their tenacious selves. They attacked again and they surrounded him again. Their will to fight didn''t end there and they were back again to fight.   He was getting annoyed by them. He once again attacked them aggressively. He saw the other spiders were attacking his feet. Grabbing his feet and then pulled it to make his balance off. He slammed his body to the ground and he has piled again with them.


    "There they go again. Piling up their bodies to me." Kelvin said to himself.


    They went to their last resort and they piled up on top of him. Kelvin was struggling as he can only lift them but he can''t move them aside. He can only see darkness and hear their shrieking sounds. His breathing became hoarse as the air was getting thinner. With his struggling, he heard a banging sound.


    [Fireball]


    [Inferno]


    The spiders were roasted by the fire. Kelvin felt the heat but his armor has fire resistance on it. The spiders fled from the attacker and Kelvin has been set free. He emerged from the fire unscathed and walks towards them.


    "Kelvin! You survived!" Anna shouted at him.


    Kelvin walked closer towards them and they were cheering. It was the other adventurers who were fighting alongside him. Frank hugged him and tapped his shoulders.


    "You did great kid! Now you leave this to us! Watch how we fight these pesky pests!" Frank said to him.


    "Now form yourselves! Kelvin! Protect the mage and the priest. Warrior, Knight! In front of me! Ranger, Fighter, and Rogue! Do what you do best! Swordsman! Protect the back!" Frank instructed them.


    They formed themselves and went to their positions. Kelvin will see how they act as a group. He will observe them in the meantime on how effective they were. A team with complete combat job-classes. His hairs went standing up and he felt excited. He was in front of the mage and priest. Protecting them was his mission. A task bestowed to him by their leader. A charismatic leader but he was the underestimating type who look down on the weak. He will prove his worth by showing what he can do. Surprising all of them will be one key but he refreshed his thoughts. He focused his thoughts on the upcoming battle as he heard the enemies coming.

 135 Night patrol part 6

    "Yes!" She said to him then went crying.


    Kael carried her in his arms as he walked towards the village. It was quiet in the forest but the village was in unrest. Both of them can hear from the forest that the village was overrun by the monsters. Banging sounds from spells were heard from afar and Kael felt worried. He didn''t imagine that the enemies were more from what they expected.


    "Why did the spiders left their den and attacked the village? Did they go insane this time?" Kael murmured.


    The girl was perplexed by what he said. She held his shoulders and Kael looked at her. Kael noticed that she felt calmer from before. As the moon''s rays pierced the leaves, he saw that the girl was only in her seven years old. She was wearing nightwear of pajamas and her shirt that was colored white with colored polka dots. Kael didn''t notice it recently but she carries a brown teddy bear on her shoulders and she was hugging it. She was cute and short on her height and she felt lighter than she looks. No wonder Kael can carry her with his arms. She stopped crying and then was staring at him. Kael felt worried and at the same time uncomfortable when he was stared at.


    ''This girl was staring at me like it was nothing to her. Well, I will just ignore it in the meantime. Gotta focus on the objectives and bring her to her family.'' Kael thought on his mind.


    "Um, mister? Can I know your name?" She hesitantly asked him.


    "It''s Kael! Kael Melvin! Nice to meet you!" Kael said to her.


    "I am Evangeline! Are you an adventurer?" She said in her cute voice.


    Kael was annoyed by it but at the same time, he has no choice but to answer her. He coughed a bit and then answered her.


    "Yeah! I am an adventurer and I am a carrier!" Kael said to her.


    She was perplexed by it and she doesn''t know what a carrier is. In her curiosity, she asked what was it.


    "What''s a carrier mister?" She asked.


    Kael felt stupid. He said unnecessary things and it complicated things.


    "Um, it''s the one who was carrying things and belongings of the party. A strong one that was carrying a heavy backpack." Kael said to her.


    "So my hunch was true then! You were strong! You defeated the spiders with just you alone!" She said to him.


    Kael felt awkward. He forgot that he just used the job class of a Ranger. He thought that he was just a combatant recently as he spoke to her.


    "We were close to our house mister! I can see our house from here!" She said to him.


    Kael focused on his goal. He was wary of an enemy ambush as they were nearing the village. The wind passed by and the leaves of the trees sounded as it was touched by its breeze.


    "Here we are! The village was just a few steps away!" Kael said to her.


    [Hunter''s vision]


    He steps on the leaves of the trees that fell and he can feel that no enemy was nearby. Even though the perimeter was clear, he was observed for several seconds before he exited the forest. He saw dead carcasses of spiders and it was littered on the ground. The place was silent except for a crying sound that was heard inside the house.


    "It was safe now. Go to your parents and lock the doors okay!" Kael said to her gently.


    She went running towards their door and called out her parents.


    "Dad! Mom! I''m here!" She shouted outside the door.


    The door was opened and the parents were deeply happy when they saw their child. The kid then said that she was saved by the adventurer.


    "Dad I am saved by the carrier adventurer! He was strong and can defeat enemies using his skills and he was helped by animals!" Evangeline said to them.


    They looked outside to see whether the adventurer was still outside to thank him. But they were dismayed by the fact that he has already left. They closed the door as they saw the dead bodies of the spiders. The door was shut and it was locked. It was then the couple went to their bed. Still watching out for the enemies that attacked them. They still were on-edge on what has recently happened. But still, they were deeply happy that their child has returned alive and it was what they only wished at that time. Contented on her return and they felt indebted to the one who saved her. They went to bed and were hugging their daughter as they waited for the chaos to calm down.


    Kael was running and has left them. He was hurrying to find Kelvin. He was happy that time that he has unlocked his Ranger job-class. He was wondering if he will use it openly or hide it in the meantime. He didn''t want to use it openly but he was also bothered by the fact that if others were in danger, he will have to use it whether he like or not. Just to save them, he has to do it openly. But he thought that he was strong enough with just his enchanter''s skills. It was a noncombat class but due to Kael''s casting speed and mana control, he can use it while in combat. He has mastered it that he can cast it instantly. Other enchanters were enchanting a certain weapon in minutes but in Kael''s case, he can enchant the weapon in just a second. Nevermind the time, he also reduced his mana consumption to the lowest. Just like enchanting it on a whim. With it on his mind, he thought that he will only use his job-class in the academy where he will train each of them and also when it was in the solitary place. In the worst-case scenario, he will use it but only in life-threatening situations.


    With it concluded, he will only use his enchantments in the meantime. But still, he was open to the thought that he will train his other job-classes. It will level up when used frequently so he will use it on a secret. It will be a problem of how but it was not a major problem. He has all the time to do so if he wanted.


    He was running towards the town square. On his way, he saw that the spiders were combatted by his colleagues. The adventurers were killing their enemies. It was what Kael saw and he thought of helping them. Approaching fast speed, he was seen by other spiders who were also going towards the adventurers. Seeing him running towards their target. They were running on the rooftops and saw their target. It was Kael who was also heading towards the other adventurers.


    Kael was running towards them but he heard a loud shriek from his back. His hairs went up as he heard them. He looked back and then saw spiders were jumping from roof to roofs. He was perplexed but not panicking, he draws his sword on his back and prepared for their assault. He held his sword in its flat form on its side and as the enemy jumped at him, he swatted it like a fly. Battered it like a baseball bat and the spider went flying back to where it jumped. He saw them be jumping at him simultaneously so he planted his feet on the ground. He prepared to swat them while holding the hilt of the sword firmly. He saw them heading at him and slapped them with his sword.


    They went flying again and they were landing on the ground splattering upon their impact. He swatted left and right with his sword and they were all blown by the sheer force. He then saw them be thinking twice before going back to him.


    He then went on towards his colleagues. He went running at them and the other spiders were alarmed by his presence. The spiders turned around towards him and they all attacked him.


    The adventurers felt alarmed and thus Frank shouted at them.


    "Hey! Where are you all going?! Kael will be in danger! Help him!" Frank shouted at them.


    Kael on the contrary was calm. He grinned like a grim reaper. Smiling at the enemies. He rotated and slashed anything that was coming at him like there''s no tomorrow. The enemies were either slashed into half of being crippled by his sword. Frank who was dashing towards him saw it and he who was running slowed down and then watched Kael. He was astonished by his prowess.


    "What kind of combatant is that?" Frank said in a stupor.


    "That was Kael! The one and only Kael!" Kelvin shouted at them.

 136 Night patrol part 7

    Bang!


    Another spider went flying from him. It went crashing into one of the houses nearby. Kael was holding his sword like it was weightless. As he lifted his sword, he enchanted his sword with his enchantment.


    [Enchant: Weightlessness]


    He strokes his sword at fast speed and then prepared to smash it to the enemy.


    [Enchant: Increase weight]


    He smashed it to the spider that was attacking him.


    Bang!


    The enemy''s body crackled as his sword made its way through its body. Breaking its hard body. The blade was cutting through its exoskeleton and then the sword pierced through its body. Managing to hold the sword while it has its weight increased, he enchanted again the sword.


    [Enchant: Weightlessness]


    He was fending them off and was getting surrounded. Kael was more terrifying in terms of damage than Kelvin but he was weak on his defense as he was only using leather armor and clothes. The complete opposite of Kelvin who has armor covering his whole body. The enemies surrounded him and attacked altogether in different directions. Stabbing their legs towards him. Kael managed to cut some of their legs that were attacking him but it didn''t hinder him to be stabbed. His leather armor was stabbed and it pierced through his armor.


    Kuhuk!


    Kael was stabbed on his back by several thrusts of their legs. He slashed some of the attacking legs but some still pierced his armor. He was getting stabbed left and right by their hard legs and Kael coughed blood. In split seconds, a knight and a swordsman slashed the legs and then grabbed him. He was dragged towards the adventurer''s formation.


    "Remove the pierced legs on his body and heal him!" Frank shouted.


    The priest removed the attached appendages on him and began to heal him. Kael felt that blood was oozing from his wound. Kelvin was struck with great worry as he saw Kael be bleeding.


    "Kael! Hold on a little longer!" Kelvin shouted.


    "Damn! It hurts!" Kael said in a low voice.


    "Kelvin I got this! Go back to defending!" Anna said to him.


    [Heal]


    [Regeneration]


    [Bastard slash]


    The spider was slashed in half. The swordsman on the back was fending off the enemies. He holds the hilt of the sword and its scabbard. He prepared to attack the enemy as he saw a spider that was coming for him.


    [Draw slash]


    A normal slash but its speed was faster than a knight. It was far more refined than a warrior''s slash or the knight and carries a burst of speed. The leader cast his skill to buff his allies.


    [Last stand]


    He cast the skill and they who were just on their positions were buffed by an increase of strength and defense. It will be far more effective to use it while holding positions while fleeing. Its effects will be nullified when you run away.


    With the buff they had, they were fired up with confidence. They shouted with fierceness as they defended their positions. Kael heard them shout and he can only lay down on the ground while being treated. His eyes were failing to endure to open. His strength was slowly fading when he tried to move his hands. He felt that his blood was running in puddles. He was constantly healed by Ann who was doing her best to heal him.


    [Heal]


    "Hey don''t you close your eyes!" She said to him.


    She slapped him and it made his cheeks to be reddened. Kael regained consciousness and he was being treated by her. Slowly, his wounds stopped bleeding and some parts of his flesh were weaved like it was being repaired.


    ''Damn! The healing can''t cope up! I have many wounds to heal and I am losing blood more than I thought. I will be in danger if this goes on. I gotta make my move.'' Kael said in his mind.


    ''I will use another job-class. But I need it to be secret. I don''t want them to know. System switch job-class Priest!'' Kael said in his mind.


    [Job class Level 3 Priest available]


    [Job-class switched]


    .....


    [Job Class Level 3 Priest]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Holy Fire


    B. Blink: ???


    C. Mastery: Staff mastery, light armor mastery, Holy element mastery, Focus mastery, Buff mastery.


    D. Buff: Bless, Regeneration, Heal, Cure Disease, Resist elements.


    E. Debuff: Judgement


    F. Burst: Holy ray


    ...


    Kael saw his skills and thus he immediately used the skill he badly needed right now without being noticed. He gritted his teeth as he still felt his blood oozing and his wound aching.


    [Regeneration]


    His skill was slowly healed accompanied by Ann''s skill [Heal] and [Regeneration]. It was her skills in the first place and It was used by Kael to supplement the [Regeneration] skill to amplify it.


    Kael was regaining his mind. He can''t bear the pain and the world was spinning around. Even though he was healing himself, he can not deny that he has lost blood. Far more than he thought. He can hear his comrades fighting the spiders. He closed his eyes as he felt dizzy when he looks at them.


    ''Damn! If I didn''t overestimate myself and fought cautiously. I won''t be in this sorry state. I wonder what''s happening right now? The world keeps spinning around. Is this the cause of losing too much blood? I don''t have endurance like a warrior so I ended like this. I will have to reflect on my mistakes later on. I gotta focus on healing first.'' He thought in his mind.


    The battle rages on, they were defending their positions while being buffed by their leader. Spiders pounced at the shields of the shield bearers. The knight slashed anything that pounces at him. Having been buffed made them sturdier as a result. The Paladin used his skill [Shield flash] and the enemies stepped back as they were flashed on their eyes. They were afraid of the flash of light so they retreated.


    The rogue and fighter fought fiercely, the rogue hunted down enemies and retreated to the dark. The fighter was punching and smashing their faces with their fist. Accompanied with kicks that were making them threw to the force. The swordsman was slashing enemies left and right in split seconds. Cutting their legs and their heads. The ranger was firing his arrows at the enemies that were on the buildings in their surroundings. Using his skill [Rapid fire] just in case of the enemy that will break their formation. The warrior was swinging his sword left and right towards his enemy. Using his spam skill [Bastard slash] and [Ground slam] to the enemies. The former skill was slashing the enemy with heavy force. Making the enemy dealt with the Flinch status effect. The latter was to stun the enemy accompanied by the slow effect. The mage was casting spells to support his allies. He was casting support skills like [Speed up] and [Defense up]. Not only support skills, but he was also attacking enemies with his offensive skills. He cast [Inferno] to the enemies, he was like breathing fire from the distance. His teammates moved aside for him to attack enemies. The priest on the contrary was healing Kael unhindered. She was healing him without a mind on the battle that rages on.  Kelvin was also fighting to fend off the enemies who will disrupt the healing of Kael. He was holding his sword to protect him. He thought that once in a while, he has the chance to repay Kael''s generosity to him. It was what made him happy for a while. A spider jumped at him and they felt alarmed. It was heading towards their Priest. At that moment, Kelvin burst from his position and flung towards their Priest. Slicing off its body into two.


    "You will pass over my dead body before you can get to her!" Kelvin shouted.

 137 Night patrol part 8

    "Hey don''t push yourself! You have lost a large amount of blood! You will still feel dizzy if you fight!" Ann shouted at him.


    Kael sits but he felt cold sweat trickled his face. Having lost blood made him pale and anemic. He sits but failed to stand up. He didn''t have the strength to do so.


    "Sigh, I gotta help but I don''t have the strength to stand up," Kael said to her.


    She was worried about Kael''s situation and she stopped him to move.


    "You should relax a bit and recuperate. Don''t waste our efforts to save you and to kill yourself again." She said to Kael.


    "Yes yes, I have a potion on my pocket but it won''t heal it as fast as the skill of the Priest. I collapsed before I can take it out." Kael said to her.


    "Don''t worry about it. At least you are saved now." She said then resumed healing others.


    She was using buffs as a support to her teammates. With her healing finished, she resumed assisting them.


    [Bless]


    She blessed their swordsman while she was on their backs. Applying [Bless] to anyone in their formation.


    "Wow! I can feel strength surging from my body!" Kelvin almost shouted in his surprise.


    The others were also showing the same reaction. They felt it in the past before because she was their comrade. Using it was her specialty as their Priest. She was the main buff skiller of their team and as well as their healer. She was like their foundation as she was their healer. Her skill in healing made them not afraid of getting hurt as she can heal them. After buffing them, she switched to healing them. Holding her staff to protect herself and also Kael. Kael was being protected and Kelvin approached him.


    "Hey, Kael are you alright? How are you feeling?" Kelvin asked him.


    "I feel a little bit anemic, maybe due to losing too much blood. Don''t worry about me and go back to defending." Kael replied.


    "Okay! I will go back now!" Kelvin said to him.


    It was the problem in this world but due to the system of Kelvin and Kael. It will be the answer to their dreams. The other system holders were also strong but the two of them will have the most job class on the rest.


    The fight still goes on and they were repelled by their formation. They were capable of holding their ground as they fought. They roared with might as they slay the enemies using their weapons. With the help of buffs from their allies, they surpassed their current capabilities.


    Kael drank water as he was sitting there inside their defense formation. He was regaining his strength slowly but surely. He was still wary of enemies coming for him but he felt safe as he was protected by his comrades¨Cespecially Kelvin. The leader promised that they won''t even hold a sword to fight with them as they were carriers but the promise can not be fulfilled. They badly needed an extra hand due to the situation. It didn''t matter to Kelvin but Kael, it was different. He needed to fight to show that they were no pushovers. It only backfired with him being protected due to jumping on the fray without proper protection. For him, enchantments were more powerful if used on light armors. On heavy armors were still powerful but it was different from the light armors. It was the reason why Kael was using light armors. But it only made him be harmed instead due to his confidence. He gritted his teeth and focused on recuperating as time goes by.


    ''I need to regain strength and help slay the monsters even it will be only on the last enemy. I need to be acknowledged. But still, if fate didn''t permit it. Then I will just sit here and relax. I can only bath experience points while sitting here. Worrying about dignity didn''t matter if I will only push myself to the extent of being on the brink of death again. Thinking wise will also be useful in times like this. I gotta calm myself and think more.'' Kael said to himself.


    He can''t move like before and thus he used his head a bit. Nothing good will happen if he will be rash and attack the enemies with his current condition. Sitting there while meditating. Focusing his mind while he was meditating inside them.


    Bang!


    Another loud noise that exploded from near him.


    "Got damn it! I can''t even meditate to increase my Focus here. If I only have the strength to lift a sword." Kael said.


    The spider attacked the shield of their leader paladin.


    [Shield bash]


    He bashed the spider that pounced at him.


    "You will need a harder attack to deal with me," Frank said to the enemy.


    The enemy rolled to the ground and then attacked again. The paladin was one of the best when it comes to defense. The knight was semi-offensive compared to the paladin but the paladin boast of its defensive skills. The warrior was currently smashing the enemies with his heavy sword. Boasting of its strength and destructive force as it attacks.


    [Intimidating shout]


    The warrior shouted with a roar when he used the skill. The enemies flinched a bit as they felt a great aura from the warrior. They felt fear effect as they heard his shout. Thinking of retreating and fleeing as they gaze at him. It was one of his debuffs and a useful one when used on a group of enemies.


    [Battle cry]


    He used his buff to increase strength and both attack and movement speed. Applying bleed effects to each strike. He smashed his sword left and right to the spiders. His attacks were smashing the enemies to a pulp. He then used his skill [Bastard slash] to the enemies. Swiping the horde of enemies as he slashed them. The skill [Ground slam] was ready so he used it.


    Bang!


    The ground shook to his Area of effect skill and then the enemies on that designated area were stunned. Making them open for attacks. The ranger felt it to be an opportunity so he used his skill [Rapid shot]. Piercing the enemies with his arrows.


    Tak! Tak! Tak! Tak!


    The spiders were easily annihilated. The Rogue was hidden in the dark and then pounced on the spiders. Jumping at them and stabbing them with his daggers.


    [Shadow travel]


    He became a shadow in the darkness which made him practically invisible. Then he pounced at the enemies.


    [Assassinate]


    His skill that causes a critical strike to the enemy.


    [Blink stab]


    He disappeared like smoke and then appeared at the top of the spider. Stabbing its head with his dagger. He went on with his rampage as he waited for his skill to cool down. Slashing the enemies in their stomach and ripping it open.


    The Fighter was also busy with his enemies. The fighter class boasts of their attributes of being semi-tank and at the same time semi-assassin. They were capable of being alone while jumping on the fray.


    [Iron body]


    He used his skill to enhance his body. Becoming as hard as iron and numb to the pain. He strikes his enemies with his martial arts while unarmed. Despite only using his body. His body was his only weapon and his greatest weapon. Kicking the enemies with his foot guard and punching them with his iron gloves. He has his basic skill [Punch] and [Kick] that can be used without a cooldown. Making them any combo as you like.


    They defended him and Kael was fully healed. He cracked his neck and shoulders as he stretched a bit. He closed his eyes and then when he opened it, all enemies were all slain.


    "What!? Finished already?" Kael exclaimed.


    The sun rises and it made the place vivid with corpses around. Kael can only sigh at what he saw. They all cheered and were happy that they all survived.


    "Wohooooo!!!" Kael and the others cheered.

 138 Sleepy Kael

    They cheered on to the mess they''ve made. Happy to see that they were all alive. The other adventurers were finishing off the still kicking spiders on the ground and at the same time, scavenging the spiders with their cores and any useful parts it has. All of them were finishing off the pretending spiders that were still alive. Specifically, their rogue that were stabbing the bodies of the spiders¨Cdead or alive.


    Swoosh!


    Sounded the sword of the knight as he pulled his sword. Kael was sitting on the ground and was alive and kicking. Kelvin approached him and tapped his shoulders and talked to him.


    "Are you okay?" He asked.


    "Yeah! Just wanna eat in the meantime and replenish my blood. I can''t fight later on and was planning to rest. Let''s eat first in the tavern shall we?" Kael said to him.


    "Yeah, sure! We might wanna replenish our stamina and your blood first! Gotta rest so that I will have strength." Kelvin said to him.


    "Let''s go!" Kelvin said then lent his hands to him.


    He grabbed it and they walked towards the tavern. The other adventurers were looking at them and they looked at them both pitifully.


    "We would like to eat food first! My friend here should rest a bit." Kelvin said to them.


    "Yeah! And be back in the inn! We will have a meeting to infiltrate their lair! We won''t force you to join Kael if you still need rest. Rest first okay!" Frank said to him.


    "Yeah!" Kael said then lifted his hands while walking away.


    "Frank was nice despite his behavior of looking down on us. I gotta drink lots of grape juice and eat lots of meat to regain my strength." Kael said to Kelvin.


    "Yeah! Let''s eat!" Kelvin said to him.


    They walked towards the tavern while being supported by Kelvin. Kael and Kelvin went inside the tavern and they sat on one of the tables.


    Kael went sleeping after he sat on the table. Having a tired night made him utterly limp when he sat at the chair. With Kael sleeping, Kelvin made the initiative to order the food. He walked towards the counter and ordered the food. He approached a man with a curled beard and black hair. He was in his thirties and he has an apron on his waist.


    "What''s your order, sir?" He asked.


    "Sir! I would like to order grilled chicken and pork and grape juice also. If you have rice then also two cups for both of us." Kelvin said to the counter.


    "I am sorry sir but we don''t have rice for now. You see, we lost anyone who delivers the supplies to the spiders who were ambushing them. It made the supplier halt their delivery to us when they were attacked on the way. Never wanting to be attacked again." He said.


    "You did not hire mercenaries to escort them?" Asked Kelvin.


    "We will do our best sir! You see, we fought last night and have slain many. Our next step was to infiltrate their lair." Kelvin said.


    "Oh, that''s reassuring! We will be hoping for your return!" He said.


    "Thank you for that. I will wait for the food then!" Kelvin replied.


    He walks towards the table and then saw the mercenaries of last night entering the tavern by the door. Kelvin saw them and they greeted themselves.


    "You have slain that many in one night! I am glad you all survived!" Said the bearded man.


    "We survived but our friend here nearly died!" Kelvin said then pointed at Kael.


    "Oh! Hahaha! At least he survived intact! We will eat first! Gotta fill our tummies with meat. We will just sit there on your left. We will order first." He said then left together with his escorts.


    They went on their way to order food. While sitting in his seat, Kael murmured.


    ''He is tired to say it like that. Having dreams while sleeping is nice but this place is not a good one at that.'' Kelvin said to himself.


    He waited for the food and while waiting, he smelled the grilled chicken and pork scent mixed. He thought that it was his order that was being cooked. Having thought of it, he felt excited to eat it. He can not wait any longer for the food to arrive. While waiting, he was observing the mercenaries to be laughing around while talking. They were talking about what happened to them while fighting the spiders in the night. They were capable enough to survive the fight. Kelvin approached them and asked them a question. They all looked at him and talked.


    "Are you perhaps mercenaries that were combatants?" Kelvin asked them curiously.


    "Yes! And we were strong! Are we?" The leader said.


    "You see child, we failed in life and have not entered the academy. We were only a bunch of ragtag team of combatants. Despite it, we were trained with swordsmanship techniques. And if you will ask if we defeated swordsman of our level, then I can say yes. We almost defeated them when they were challenging us. Being a job-classed adventurer was good but it was not everything. You see, we trained our cores and foundations and do not rely on skills that have cooldowns. Keep it in mind that it was important to train your core." He said to Kelvin.


    Kelvin was perplexed by his answer and he was admiring them. He won''t look down to combatants anymore. Despite being a combatant also, he will etch it on his mind about their advice. They were the perfect examples of Frank''s principles. Having a combatant that strong was refreshing for him.


    He went back to his seat after he saw his food was coming.


    "Please excuse me for now. The food is waiting for me." Kelvin said to them.


    He sits on the chair as the grilled pork and chicken were served to them. He immediately woke up Kael who was currently sleeping.


    "Wake up Kael! The food was served!" Kelvin said to him.


    Kael, on the contrary, was sniffing the food and thus he woke up.


    He saw the food to be waiting for him and thus he let loose for a while.


    He ate the grilled pork that was seasoned with spices. Grabbing the chicken leg and bite off its roasted meat. Kelvin was also in his focus while eating. Drinking in between with his grape juice and then eat again. It was a feast for them so they didn''t stop eating while they can. While eating, they were talking with each other.


    "Kelvin, I think I can not participate with the lair extermination. I need to rest and while I''m at it, I need to check something. About the system I have." Kael whispered to Kelvin.


    "Oh, sure! You need to rest for now. You have done your part and have killed far more than they have killed. Maybe it was also the reason that Frank lets you rest. Maybe he changed his mind about you." Kelvin said to him.


    "Really!? Well, that''s good news!" Kael said to him in his surprise.


    "Yeah! So rest all you can and be in your best condition. In return, I would join them in their hunt." Kelvin said to him.


    "Yeah be careful then. I will wait for your return." Kael said to him.


    They finished eating and they waved goodbye to the other mercenaries. Kael has regained ample energy and can walk on his own. Walking while on the way Kelvin talked about the mercenaries that they met.


    "Hey Kael! About the mercenaries we''ve met! They were also combatants like us!" Kelvin said to him.


    "Really! And they survived last night with just the three of them?" Kael said in his surprise.


    "Yeah! I wonder how strong they were but they said that they were using sword techniques." Kelvin said to him.


    "Sword techniques? Wow they were that strong using that? Maybe I am underestimating our own techniques! I will reflect later on." Kael said to Kelvin.


    Kelvin told Kael that the mercenaries were also a combatant. Kael was surprised by it and he felt proud that they were using their sword techniques. He starts to reflect and wondered how strong a technique user was. Kael was reflecting and he was a master level. It was a shame for him to boast that he was a master and he was defeated by mere spiders. He began to doubt that he knows the true essence of their family''s techniques. It was like he was thinking that he was a frog in a well that didn''t know the vastness of the ocean. Continuing their walk, they entered the inn and Kael changed his clothes. Sleeping then after it. Kelvin was still awake and so he walk outside to meet the others to begin their plan for the lair assault.

 139 Kaels self time

    "Kelvin!? Are you there?" Kael asked while feeling the bed whether he was present or not.


    He realized that he joined the extermination mission that the other adventurers planned to attack so he realized that he was away. Seeing that the room was dark, he lits the lamp beside him. He was looking at the lamp and wondered what to do. Realizing that he was all alone, he thought of something to pass time. Knowing that he was still weak, he exercised to build up his strength. Doing strengthening exercises to level up his strength while pushing up and curl-ups. Doing also the sit-ups while he has his weights on his body. It gradually rose to one. After his strengthening, he exercises his reflex by doing rapid sidesteps and maneuvers as he was jumping from wall to wall. Landing his feet on the wall while not making any noise. It was for the movement speed. Now for the attack speed, he swings his sword rapidly. Making his speed rise but it will be useless without reaction speed. Knowing it, Kael thought that it would be best to spar with an enemy. But he has not a single one to spar with. After it, he jogs around to increase his vitality. Perspiring while he was jogging, he removed his shirt and hang it. After it all, he moved to improve his focus. He meditated while sitting on his bed. Enhancing his focus while meditating and time go by as he was sitting there for a while. Knowing that he has improved gradually, he opened his status window with his window card.


    ....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank D¨C


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 30


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (47) +


    Dexterity (51) +


    Vitality (52) +


    Focus (102) +


    Stats points: 90


    .....


    ''Let''s check out our other job-classes now. Or I wouldn''t see a chance later on. I gotta see it!'' Kael thought excitedly.


    ''System! Equip Rogue job-class'' Kael said to the system.


    [Job-class level 5 Rogue available]


    [Rogue job-class equipped]


    .....


    [Job Class Level 5 Rogue]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Smoke bomb.


    B. Blink: Shadow travel, Blink stab.


    C. Mastery: Dagger mastery, Throwing mastery, Light armor mastery, Dexterity mastery, Sneak mastery, Annihilating mastery.


    D. Buff: Night''s friend. Night vision


    E. Debuff: Blinding Darkness.


    F. Burst: Assassinate.


    He saw that their Rogue adventurer was decent. Even though he was low leveled, he had skills that he didn''t show to their last fight. Not minding it, he watched the next job-class he got.


    ''System! Equip the Warrior job-class'' Kael said to the System.


    [Job-class level 4 Warrior available]


    [Level 4 Warrior job-class equipped]


    ''Status! Open Job-class window!'' Kael commanded the system.


    ...


    [Job Class Level 4 Warrior]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Ground slam


    B. Blink: Shoulder Charge


    C. Mastery: Two-handed weapon mastery, Endurance mastery, Heavy armor mastery, Strength mastery, Skill mastery,  Rage mastery.


    D. Buff: Battle cry


    E. Debuff: Intimidation shout


    F. Burst: Bastard slash


    .....


    He saw that the Warrior Job-class was also excellent in terms of combat. He thought that it has little skills but it has a small cooldown in which can be spammed. Its skills were lethal and has a melee advantage. He went to see the next job-class he has.


    ''System! Equip Fighter Job-class'' Kael commanded.


    [Level 6 Fighter Job-class available]


    [Level 6 Fighter equipped]


    .....


    [Job Class Level 6 Fighter]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Push force, Pull force


    B. Blink: Fleeting step


    C. Mastery: Punch mastery, Kick mastery, Body conditioning mastery, Dexterity mastery, Force mastery, Martial Art mastery, Energy mastery.


    D. Buff: Sixth sense, Gentle fist, Hard fist, Energy overflow, Speed burst, Iron body.


    E. Debuff: Inflict greater pain


    F. Burst: Shattering punch, Breaking Kick


    .....


    He saw that the fighter was not half bad. It was also a super offensive class. It can be at odds with the warrior. Minding that this class was only using your body. It was a class that made Kael interested. You can fight an army without a weapon just using your feet and arms. Minding about being stripped off of your weapons and only your bare hands were only available to fight off enemies. It was a very practical job-class that uses the least armory and protection. After he saw it, he went to the next job-class.


    ''Next, Priest job-class.'' Kael commands.


    [Level 3 Priest Job-class available]


    .....


    [Job Class Level 3 Priest]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Holy Fire


    B. Blink: ???


    C. Mastery: Staff mastery, light armor mastery, Holy element mastery, Focus mastery, Buff mastery.


    D. Buff: Bless, Regeneration, Heal, Cure Disease, Resist elements.


    E. Debuff: Judgement


    F. Burst: Holy ray


    ...


    He saw that it hasn''t changed. It was the same job-class that he used in the past. It was the best support that can buff and heal the allies. It has to be in a good position to heal the enemies and has to be protected. Well, it will be different when Kael tinkers about it. Getting plans ahead in the future. While looking at it, he remembered his job-class Ranger and checked it out.


    ''Equip Ranger Job class.'' Kael commanded the system.


    [Level 4 Ranger available]


    [Level 4 Ranger equipped]


    ...


    [Job Class Level 4 Ranger]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Trap assembly


    B. Blink: Flash step


    C. Mastery: Dagger mastery, Bow mastery, Light armor mastery, Dexterity mastery, Forest adaptation mastery, Marksmanship mastery.


    D. Buff: Hunter''s instinct, Hunter''s vision, Forest blessing, Hide.


    E. Debuff: Forest adversary


    F. Burst: Dagger strike, Rapid arrow shots, Snipe.


    .....


    It was the first Job-class he tested knowing that it was the forest that he will be fighting on. He browses a bit and then went on to the others.


    ''Equip Swordsman Job class.'' Kael commanded.


    [Level 6 Swordsman available]


    [Level 6 Swordsman equipped]


    ....


    [Job Class Level 6 Swordsman]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Paralyzing Zone, Cleave.


    B. Blink: Dash


    C. Mastery: Sword mastery, Light armor mastery, Dexterity mastery, Focus mastery.


    D. Buff: Intense focus, Skill cooldown reduction.


    E. Debuff: Paralyzing killing intent.


    F. Burst: Split the second slash, Draw slash, Ghost slash.


    .....


    He saw that the swordsman was pretty legit when it comes to duels. Knowing that the swordsman was good and was first-rate when it comes to butchering. He then proceeded to the next job-class.


    ''Equip Paladin Job-class'' Kael said to the system.


    [Level 12 Paladin available]


    [Level 12 Paladin equipped]


    ....


    [Job Class Level 12 Paladin]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Blinding light, Shield flash.


    B. Blink: Shield charge.


    C. Mastery: Blunt mastery, Heavy armor mastery, Focus mastery, Light mastery, Lighting mastery.


    D. Buff: Last stand, Divine armor, Omni Armor, Heavy hitter.


    E. Debuff: Judgement.


    F. Burst: Shield bash, Summon giant hammer, Thundering Hammer.


    .....


    He saw that this job-class was mostly a defense-oriented killer. Its offense skills were also very damaging. No one will take lightly when it comes to Paladins. They were mostly leaders in the party that can lead the charge and support the team. He moved on to the next job-class.


    ''Equip Knight Job-class'' Kael commanded the system.


    [Level 5 Knight Job-class available]


    [Level 5 Knight equipped]


    ...


    [Job Class Level 5 Knight]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Slash cleave.


    B. Blink: Piercing charge, Shield charge.


    C. Mastery: Sword mastery, Blocking mastery, Heavy armor mastery, Riding mastery, Guardian mastery, Spirit mastery.


    D. Buff: Summon mount, Defense up, Attack up, Swift, Summon guardian.


    E. Debuff: Stun bash.


    F. Burst: Mount charge, Ultimate slash.


    ...


    Kael saw that the skills of Knight has offensive but it was also a defensive job-class. It was a defense and offense oriented job-class. Rivalling the Paladins but has mounts to summon. Kael then went on with the other job-class.


    "Next Mage Job-class," Kael said to the system.


    [Level 7 Mage Job-class available]


    [Level 7 Mage Job-class equipped]


    ....


    [Job Class Level 7 Mage ]


    Skills:


    A. Area of effect: Inferno, Blizzard, Gust, Meteor fall


    B. Blink: Teleport


    C. Mastery: Fire mastery, Wind mastery, Light armor mastery, Ice mastery, Lightning mastery, Spell mastery, Earth mastery, Telekinesis mastery, Spatial mastery.


    D. Buff: Force shield, Mana overflow


    E. Debuff: Slow, Bind, Stun,


    F. Burst: Fireball, Lighting strike, Ice spears.


    .....


    Kael saw it was a great damage dealer. He has the time to nourish his job-classes at the academy. Thinking of it, he was very excited to level it up. He went on with the other job-classes he already has.

 140 Kaels self time part 2

    "I hope that they will be safe. Maybe Kelvin can survive on his own. Knowing that he has level far surpassed mine. He has fifty plus on all his stats and I only have below than him. He will be safe with his armor on and it will be easy to slay enemies that were not as strong as the snakes. Despite it all, I don''t know if the enemies were able to pierce his armor. I hope he will be okay." Kael said to himself.


    Having checked the job-classes he got, he was still contemplating. He used to read books about them and it was the tradition of the noble families of job-classes to train their next generations to come about their job-classes. It was exclusively taught to them which made them high leveled when it comes to their job-classes. But they were low on their character level. Even though they have a low level of character stat, they were also taught about character stat cultivation. Knowing about it, they still lacked real-time experience due to them being sheltered on their golden spoons upbringing. Even the fact was slapped on his face, he didn''t want to underestimate them. Due to them being high level when it comes to their job-class. The adventurers were job-classed but they were only taught by the subsidiary families of the nobles. Kael understands that he has to pay a hefty amount to be training on them and it will be a low level. Limited only to level twenty. Breaking the level cap has to be making close ties with them and has to be making huge favor for them. Which is not favorable for Kael, he might become their dogs for life.


    They will be having an upcoming entrance exam in the academy and many nobles and non-nobles will join. He will prepare for their test and it will be a tough one. The nobles always have the upper hand knowing that they were trained by their family. Kael was born on a lord but they were a family of technique users.


    "What was better? The technique or the job-class?" He asked himself.


    He was baffled by the notion of what was better¨Cthe job class or techniques. Knowing that he almost got killed recently but the adventurers were unscathed. Knowing it, he was more amazed by the fact that the three mercenaries were only three but they have survived. They also defeated job-classed swordmen using their Kael family techniques.


    "Just how strong a technique is? I am starting to wonder if my father taught everything to me. Maybe he only taught the basics and I have to find out the rest. Maybe he wanted me to discover it by myself!" Kael said while talking to himself.


    While contemplating, he was struck by a train of thoughts. He immediately realized that his techniques were not strong enough to be compared to the mercenaries.


    He smiled wryly and grinned like a grim reaper. He has gained an idea that will make him stronger by leaps and bounds without using the job-classes of the nobles. He planned to use the techniques of his family on the entrance exam without a job-class. Thinking of it, it was his original plan in the first place. He went on with his practice for the idea he has recently.


    "If I focus myself to gather [Force] while sparring with the air, maybe I will be getting used to it in the past. Incorporating the aura to my attacks while I have the chance to improve myself." Kael said to himself.


    "I have remembered now! The aura was force gathering, force releasing, and lastly was the body enhancing! Damn, I forgot about the basics! In the past, I am just focusing on the force gathering and releasing and ended up forgetting the body enhancement! I will gather force and it will further enhance my body. Making the force trapped inside you and thus making your strength to be explosive!" Kael said in his self.


    Knowing about it, he went on with his experiment. He first gathers [Force] while he was on it. He used different weapons to be getting used to them while on the gathering stage. He slashed his sword shield while gathering [Force]. As he slashed, his gathering stage was disrupted. He was struggling deep inside to gather [Force] and as he swings the sword, his focus in the gathering was disturbed.


    "Damn! This was easy with the light weapons but as I used heavy weapons, my strength was sucked by my gathering of [Force]. It seemed like it was my strength that was used for it. Hmmm, so I need strength for gathering it and thus releasing it to the outer part of the body. Now I know the fundamentals of Aura. I gotta make it my own and use it as much as I like in the battle. This will be useful if I can control it freely." Kael said while alone.


    He noticed that it was his strength that was used by the time he gathers the [Force]. Knowing about it, he resumed cultivating his strength as far as he can. He was looking at his stats while exercising.


    ....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank D¨C


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 30


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (47) +


    Dexterity (51) +


    Vitality (52) +


    Focus (102) +


    Stats points: 90


    ....


    He further used all his stamina to cultivate his strength. While having weights on his arms and legs, his strength rose far more quickly. He was thinking of putting all his stats to his strength right now but refrained from doing so. He deeply needed it only on emergencies and has stat cultivation right now. Knowing it, he further strengthened himself.


    ....


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Kael Melvin


    Age: 13


    Address: Golden Valley


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventurer Rank: Rank D¨C


    Job-class: combatant


    Character level: 30


    Character Statistics:


    Strength (50) +


    Dexterity (51) +


    Vitality (52) +


    Focus (102) +


    Stats points: 90


    ....


    He saw that it has risen by three points. He closed his window and resumed his practice in his research.


    "Will this improve as I use it? I gotta try it as soon as possible." Kael said in his self.


    He gathered [Force] in his body and swings his sword.


    Swoosh!


    He gathered [Force] and when he swings it, He barely made it and has only gathered little.   "It was a success! But not enough! Gotta try a little more!" Kael said.


    He put down his weapon and gasped air. Concluding that it was a success made him be at ease a bit. He has used his stamina while cultivating his strength thus he rested. He went again to the window side and was observing. While he was at it, he can hear the cocks of the roosters. Knowing that it was in the middle of the night and the start of a new day. Meaning, it was starting to be morning.


    "A new day and I haven''t rested for the night. I mean, I have enough time for myself for a while and was quite energetic. Not minding the time he was currently on. Maybe tomorrow morning will be peaceful as they will be successful with their assault. I will be resting for now so I can continue with my experiment. It was halfway there but still not satisfactory. I gotta train more to achieve the desired result." Kael said by the window side.


    He went to wash with warm water in the bathtub. He felt refreshed with the warm water and has revitalized with his worn-out muscles. After it, he went to his bed and slept. Feeling that the cold season was coming, he covered himself with the blanket and warmed himself with his heat. He felt sleepy as the time goes by and thus slept till the morning.

 141 Lair assault plan

    Having a meeting before the assault will prove to be useful. He went towards the room while walking to the hallway made of wood. The walls were wood and it has woody patterns that were unique on its own.  Walking to the room, he was hearing people talking from the outside. He prepared to knock on the door with his bare hands as he lifted it. While it was closed, he thought of what to say to them about Kael''s current condition. Not minding it, he knocked on the door to Frank''s room.


    Tak! Tak! Tak!


    "Hello there! This is Kelvin!" Kelvin said to the door.


    As he said those words, the room became utterly silent. They shushed themselves as he waited from the outside. Knowing that he was waiting, someone came in his direction. The tapping of boots was heard from the door and stopped by the other side. It was then opened and Kelvin was surprised by the one who opened it. It was none other than Frank.


    "Hey come in! Um, where''s your friend?" Frank said to him while holding the door.


    Kelvin was challenged with what to say. He can not say that his friend was sleeping and it would only make Kael felt inferior being. Knowing that their leader was deeply loathing the weak. Kelvin prepared to speak and used all his courage to talk.


    "He was sleeping!" Kael said to him.


    ''Damn, I ended up saying it! I don''t know what to tell him. Plus it''s better, to be honest right? Damn! I''m sorry Kael! I will pay two folds to my mistake.'' Kelvin screamed in his mind.


    "It''s okay! Plus he has killed more than enough spiders so it''s okay! Come in! We will start!" Frank said while caressing his beard.


    "Oh okay! Thanks!" Kelvin replied.


    ''Damn! I thought it will get worst. I ended up entering unscathed! Talking about good luck!'' Kael said in his mind.


    "Welcome to the team Kelvin! It was sad that your friend was sleeping. I have to say this also to him but nevermind that. You can tell him yourself. As you can see, we thought that you displayed great performance when we fought last night. I thought that you were only baggage carriers as we met. But I am greatly mistaken, you were all strong despite you didn''t have job-classes. Knowing that fact was hard to accept but I am slapped in the face with the truth. You were all now welcome to the team! And let''s be comrades from now on. You know, I hate the weak but it has a reason. I am just simply telling you that you become strong! Stronger than you are currently! For that, let bygones be bygones as well as past become the past. Let''s hug my friend!" Frank said to him and then hugs him.


    They all group hugged and Kelvin was perplexed by the sudden development. He felt like a statue as he was digesting the situation.


    "Okay! Now let''s plan the assault! Now, who''s with me!?" Frank asked them.


    "Aye!" They shouted together.


    The mood became merry suddenly which made Kelvin became comfortable. He observed and behaved himself to what will happen. Frank led the meeting and has prepared a map beforehand. The meeting commenced immediately without further introductions. Kelvin sat on the floor as other adventurers do. They were scattered on the floor as they observed. Frank lifted the map and then pinpointed the location of the lair. It was just near the village just located in the cave south of the village. They were looking at the map and then Frank began his talk.


    "This is the location of the cave. Called Arachnid cave. It was a cave full of spiders and also disgusting webs. That''s right! I hate webs as they were sticky and annoying! The first plan was to scout the area. Due to the danger it has, it was tasked to the rogue and ranger. It was tasked to them due to them having greater survival being solo. How much more if they cover their backs! They have a fast cooldown on their blink skills making them retreat faster than us! Now that the first plan was made, the next plan was to infiltrate the cave. Knowing where we go as the scouts will make a map. We will kill them all by the way! But we have to know the way inside the cave. We kill the spiders and the babies and lastly the queen. Avoid the queen first and she will be the last to be killed. The formation will be a balanced defense. The vanguard will be the Warrior and the Paladin. Guarding the Mage and Priest. The rear guard will be the Knight and swordsman. Now that the formation was set, the ranger,  fighter, and rogue will be guardians of the middle. Kelvin will be one of them as he can also fight. Now we have to assist each other and protect each other while moving. Any questions?" Frank asked.


    The ranger lifted his hands to ask a question.


    "None currently, but why do the ranger and rogue have to scout as we will only have to kill each one of the spiders. Does the scouting make sense? We will only endanger ourselves if we do that. Not that we won''t manage but it was hard labor just to know the way. Jumping to the lair full of spiders just to map the area. How about we map while being on the formation. How does that sound?" The ranger asked.


    The rogue also nodded as a sign of his agreement. Looking at Frank, he sighed as he thought that it was very risky. Yet he remained calm despite being questioned.


    "Okay, we will do the mapping while on the formation. Scouting was only effective when it was not a trap in the first place. I know that both of you can manage but it was pretty risky. In turn, you do use your skills of [Hunter''s vision] and [Night vision]. Those skills will be needed. As for our mage, he can create light with his fire magic. Report everything when you can see something was coming or something was off. Is that okay with you?" Frank asked them.


    "Yes yes, that was a nice plan! Better from before! Right?" The Ranger said then looked at the Rogue.


    The Rogue nodded to him in agreement. Kelvin was just minding his own and has only observed from his position.


    ''They were surprisingly using their heads! It was my first time hearing a detailed plan! They were not called veterans if they won''t use it!'' Kelvin said in his mind.


    He felt astonished about them as a team and thus he smiled. Knowing that they have a great leader.


    "Okay! You two were the eyes of our team while in the cave so don''t take a chance for the enemy will slip inside our formation! The Ranger will be looking in front and the Rogue will be looking at the back. Report immediately what you saw then!" Frank added.


    "Yes sir! We will!" Shouted the Ranger.


    "Okay! Now we will be readying ourselves before we will leave. Let''s eat first and be merry shall we?" Frank said to them.


    "Let''s go eat breakfast in the tavern!" Shouted Ann.


    "Hey, Kelvin! Invite your friend Kael and we will be eating together!" Said Frank.


    "Ah, haha. You see, he was resting right now and will be replenishing his energy. He was currently recuperating so let''s not disturb him yet." Kelvin said to Frank.


    "Ah, okay! If that''s for the best! Now let''s go!" Frank said then tapped his shoulder armor.


    They went to the tavern after the meeting. Right in the room of Kael, he was heavily snoring as he slept. Kelvin proceed to the tavern and ate with them and was enjoying the fun company with them.

 142 Lair assaul

    The villagers were all happy to look at their presence. Thinking of them as their saviors and protectors while they were in their village. Other kids approached them and even gave them flowers. They accepted it heartwarmingly and was overjoyed by them. Thanking the kids as they left, Kelvin was happy to see it. Even though it was only a simple gesture of thankfulness, it was enough for them to be happy. They waved goodbye to the kids and then went on to their initial destination. They went to the tavern as planned and saw assaulted with the smell of cooked food.


    "Hmmm, smells good! We will eat something delicious today! Wait here and I will order some food." Frank said to them as he left.


    They all sit on one of the tables and they occupied two with their numbers. Having entered the room, the locals inside the tavern all looked at them with their glares. It was undistinct whether it was malice or admiring. Despite their glares, they went back to their businesses and ate their orders. The adventurers felt uncomfortable despite knowing they were the defenders of their village. They dissipated their thoughts as their leader Frank came back from ordering. He sat on one of the chairs and then rested his arms on the table.


    "I have ordered skewered meat accompanied by melon juice. We will make our stomach full before going to the enemy lair. We will replenish our energy and be in our best condition. Anyone want to go to the comfort room before the food arrives?" Frank asked them.


    Kelvin currently was feeling uncomfortable so he stands up and went to the comfort room. He didn''t mind what will they thought but prioritized his well-being. He was walking towards the comfort room and then he saw several people looking at him. They were three in numbers and were residents of the village. He was looked upon but he didn''t mind them. He can hear them murmur while looking at him.


    "He was an adventurer? He was so young and brave. He better be careful as life is short and don''t know what will happen." The aged man with a bald and white beard said to him.


    He was hungry thus he managed to revert himself from his lost appetite. Managing to bring it back made Kelvin refreshed. Not wanting to remember the stench, he walks towards the drinking station and drinking water. He felt refreshed and thus he went back to the other adventurers. Kelvin went back to his seat and waited for the food to be served. Waiting was just a breeze when he saw the waiter carrying the food.


    "Wohooo!!! The food is coming!" Said Ann.


    The others were also excited to eat the food. Knowing that their tummies were also gurgling from the hunger they felt. Kelvin was also excited to grab his food. Knowing that he will get a taste of it as soon as he received it. He waited for his food as they passed each of their shares. Wanting to taste it soon, Kelvin grabbed his portion and immediately ate it.


    Tasting the skewered meat was very refreshing for him. He was assaulted by flavors of spices. It was very delicious as it was marinated in the night and then cooked in the day. Making it very full of taste. They were wearing satisfying faces as they ate it. They drank the juice as they ate in between. Sipping the juice when they were tasting the food. They finished eating while they were satisfied. Satisfied with the food they ate, they paid their bills with their coins.


    "Woohoo!!! That''s a great experience. This village has good food! I will visit this place in the future!" Their swordsman said to them.


    Kelvin agreed with him as he said those words. They exited the inn as they prepare for their attack. They went back to their inn and then prepared their weapons for the attack. Having been prepared for the battle was for the best. They went on with their preparation and then exited the inn. Carrying their weapons and armors on them. They went on towards their journey towards the spider cave and as they walk towards them, they were cheered on by the villagers as they walk towards the cave. Walking while being cheered on was very inspiring and they were awestruck by them. With their cheers, they all were ignited and as well as challenged to defeat the enemy. It was then they replied by waving their hands on them.


    They exited the village and they changed their minds. Focusing on their goals towards the objectives. The wind blew and the leaves were falling on the pathway. The road to the cave was narrow and was in between the forest of Geralt. Walking while on guard made them on edge. It was not a place to be losing your guard and make a nice stroll as you walk towards the cave. While walking towards the cave, they were talking with each other while being on guard.


    They passed by dead bodies on the way. Three dead bodies were seen and it was all bony. Being sucked dry while they were wrapped with webs. Two of them were likely to be low leveled mercenaries and were eaten just where they died. The others were either dragged into the cave or escaped from the battle. One of them was a priest with its staff and clothing still on its body intact. They scanned the surrounding area and they have not seen any signs of life form. Their ranger used his skill [Hunter''s vision] to see the surrounding perimeter. It was utterly silent as no birds were chirping, no crickets were sounding, and no animals were seen. They thought that they were all killed and hunted by them as their food. Having seen many dead insects, they thought not a single one was spared. They went on with their travel and they have seen many more dead bodies. They felt that it was getting creepy. The bodies were all sucked dry with their enemies and has littered the pathway. If they counted it all, they can see that they numbered twenty and up. Some of them were adventurers and some of them were civilians. Knowing and seeing it all, they also wanted to puke the food they have eaten.


    "These spiders have far more killed in their attacks for the past months. We should exterminate them as soon as possible." Frank said to his teammates.


    Frank touched the helmet of one of the dead bodies and was silent from the time being. He sits and then closed the helmet of one of the adventurers.


    "We move now for the time being. The enemies were waiting for us." Frank said to them.


    They went on towards the inside of the cave. Upon seeing the cave, they saw the entrance to be big enough to be called a mouth. Having a mouth and two punch holes like large eyes to be called a monster cave. They saw its eyes glowed red and was seen from afar.


    "The cave was creepy, we might get ambushed from the inside," Kelvin said to them.


    "Yeah, it will be a fight when we get ambushed. Not gonna let them get us you know! We will fight till we exterminate them all." said Frank.


    They went to the inside of the cave and then their mage was making a fire to serve as a torch. They went towards the dark and web covered cave. Making them feel cold as they went inside.


    "Be careful everyone! We might get ambushed from all sides and the front and back. Move to your formations and stay close to each other!" Frank instructed them.


    They moved to their formation and then prepared for the worst. Knowing that they were inside the enemy grounds.

 143 Lair assault part 2

    The pathway was spacious, enough for them to walk and run around. Having dimensions of twenty meters made them have ample space to fight on. Thinking of it, they were still closely intact and not spreading out. Having a wrong move will make them lose a comrade and the mission will be disturbed by rescuing them. Even though their mission was to exterminate them all, they will prioritize the rescue mission over the extermination. Knowing that their comrades were their priority than the success of their missions.


    They made their formation to be covering each other and were on high alert to defend each other. They thought that prevention is better than cure so it was only proper to cover each other''s backs.  Now that they entered, they were prepared to fight anytime. Drawing their weapons, gripping their shields, and preparing their skills for the right time to use it. They engraved their thoughts on their goal to eradicate the enemies.


    As they walk on, they saw hanged corpses in the walls. Some were smiling at their deaths and were dried up like a malnourished person. Only skin and bones were left as their insides were all sucked. Some were adults who were dressed in their everyday clothes and some were kids who were holding close her teddy bear. Some of them were armored when they were hanged there and died there without eating for weeks. Some of them were kids and some of them were adventurers. All mixed and the spiders were not nit-picky with their victims. Seeing that they have collections of mixed dead bodies right in their walls. Ann wanted to puke as she saw them, knowing that the villagers died without having to see their loved ones in their last breath and to die there in that dark damp place with monsters. They might be screaming till their last breath while being eaten.


    The adventurers were disturbed about the current view they were looking at. Seeing that the light was illuminating the corpses and some spiders were coming out of their bodies and eye sockets. Now that the current events have disturbed their feelings, Ann can not help but voice out her feelings.


    "These people are suffering here while we were on our other missions. We thought that we saved enough but there were still many unsalvaged." She said to them.


    Kelvin was also sympathizing with them and was silent. They were in silence but others were still on guard. Not wanting to be an ambush by them the inside of the cave. Knowing that they were inside the enemy territory, it was not the best place to let your guard down. They were silent but at the same time, they were alert. Knowing that their Ranger was using his skill to look for the incoming enemy, they were at east on the moment.


    Moments later on, they started to prepare for the continued journey inside of the caverns full of webs. They went on and then they formed their formation again. The mage recast his light to illuminate the way. Upon their travels, they haven''t met enemies so far. Just the small spiders who were escaping their ray of light. The way was still full of webs as they were on their travel. The wind was getting thinner as they moved deeper into the cave. Despite their current situation, they continued to move deeper. The light source was still brimming brightly. They were ready anytime to fight but they haven''t met anything on the way.


    "Hey Ranger, you don''t have met anything on your vision?" Frank asked him.


    "No sir, actually I have seen only the small ones. Do you want me to scout first?" He asked.


    "You might wanna scout first so we don''t waste our time going around these caverns. Bring the Rogue with you if you want." He said to the Ranger.


    "Yes if that will be for the best then let''s go." He said.


    "Yes do that and be careful out there. We will rest for a bit here. No problem getting surrounded because we have a strong formation." Frank said to them.


    "Okay, we will go now!" The Ranger said then left towards the darkness.


    Both of them went on their way and thus they rested there in that cave. They all sit on the cave floor and drank water. Resting while they can and has not yet met other spiders.


    "Hey, Kelvin! You wanna drink?" Asked their Knight.


    Kelvin was surprised by his treatment. He was shocked by his offer.


    "Thanks but I have my own," Kelvin said to him.


    "Can I ask you about your friend Kael?" The Knight asked Kelvin.


    Kelvin replied when he heard that Kael was the topic.


    "Oh about him! I only met him on the adventurers guild. But I know that he was a good person. Even shared his money to give me this armor and weapon. He was a friendly person and made the first strike of conversation with me when we were just strangers. We were together since the second time we met in the city and even gave me his enchanted armor and weapons. He was an enchanter and at the same time, an alchemist. It was what I have known so far!" Kelvin said to him.


    "Thank you for telling me about him. He was strong! Wait so you mean he was just an enchanter when he battled the spiders back then? I didn''t know enchanters to be a combat class?" He said while being perplexed.


    "See! He was awesome! As you can see, he has high enchanting speed and can enchant his sword in a matter of split seconds. Making him enhanced by his enchantments. He was enchanting different kinds of enchantments whether it was the most needed enchantment at that moment. His only weakness is that he didn''t want to use heavy armor. Making him very vulnerable when it comes to brawls and group fights. He was only wearing light armors because it has higher effectivity when it comes to enchantments. He weighs the pros and cons and chose the light armor. I didn''t know what is on his mind but I think he prioritizes offense over defense. Well, he can avoid most of the time when he wanted to but it was imbalanced. Maybe he was an offense-oriented guy and low on defense. That was maybe his battle plan." Kelvin said to him.


    The Knight was amazed to know that he was only an enchanter and didn''t even carry any job class. Thus he replied joyfully to Kelvin.


    "That was pretty badass you know! He was that great even though he still was young! Not being born on the noble job-classed family but still! He has prowess rivaling them in his age. Knowing that he was that strong but I didn''t know that an enchanter can be that offensive. You know that enchanters were pretty rare! They were rich! They have consumed a great amount of time to enchant one weapon or armor and have drained tantamounts of mana. Knowing that he can enchant in split seconds will make the wealthy enchanters jealous! All I have to say was, protect your friend! He is a precious one!" The Knight said to him.


    "Yeah! I will! But he was strong! He was more trained compared to me you know!" Kelvin nearly shouted.


    The other adventurers were looking at them then averted their gazes when Kelvin looked at them. Others were whistling and others were minding their own business.


    "Okay! That ends our conversation! We will continue it in the future I guess?" He said to him.


    "Yeah! Let''s get back to our mission. We have all the time to talk when we get back to the village!" Kelvin replied.


    They stood up and they went back to their formation. Knowing that it was not the place to be relaxing with. They were on their guard as they were waiting for their comrade. While waiting for them to arrive. They were seeing only what the torch of their mage has made. Shadows from afar were not seen by the light and were making their hair''s skin to rise when they were hearing sounds and shriekings of the unknown. Their sanity was getting worse as time passes by, knowing that their two comrades were still not coming back.

 144 Lair assault part 3

    The walls of the cave were moist and the webs were also covering it while being moist. Thinking that they were making webs to cover the cold damp walls of the caverns. Jack the Rogue, was breathing steamy breath. Aulin their Ranger was also breathing the same as him. They were only making hand signs as they communicate with each other. The Rogue was using his skill [Sneak] while the Ranger was using his skill [Flash step]. Both of them were using their vision skills as they entered the dark. The Ranger was using his skill [Hunter''s vision] while the Rogue was using [Night vision]. Both of them were elites on spying and scouting. While the Ranger was using his bow to [Snipe], the Rogue was using his skill [Summon daggers].


    Both of them were good in their way and can be the best at different angles. They traveled the same path as they were running silently. Both of them were looking at each other while running. Covering their backs while they were on it. As they paved the path, they saw a big spacious cavern as they exited the one they were currently paving. While looking at the place as they use their visual skills, they saw glowing eggs that were being brought from the different compartment. The eggs glowed neon green and they can see the babies from the inside. It was being carried by spiders to that compartment and the babies inside it were wriggling. They were both astonished by what they discovered. Cold sweat runs down their spines and their senses screamed like there was danger was coming. The [Hunter''s instict] was activated thus the Ranger felt that it was not the place to stand on.


    They looked at each other and has concluded one thing. They both thought that it was coming from the queen who was laying its eggs. Thinking of it, they both retreated before they will be ambushed. While their vision skills were on, both of them observed while sneaking. Just to get away safely from that place. Aulin about-faced and Jack was stepping backward. They both planned to get away immediately but Aulin the Ranger stopped moving and thus Jack bumped his butt on his back.


    They saw it while being in the dark of what the enemies they will be encountering. Luckily, they were not seen by them. Looking at them observantly, they have seen some of them be different from each other. Others were longer on their legs and have bigger butts than the others. Some of them were fast-moving and can only see their after images when passing by. They were smaller than the others who passed by. The others were slow-moving but glowing on their butts with neon green. Others were spitting webs on their brethren as they were bickering with each other.


    For both of them, they thought that it was great info about knowing their enemies. They were struck with great worry when they realized if the enemies were to attack them, they will have a great time fighting for their lives. It will be a not great experience for them, knowing it made them realized that they underestimated the enemies and will have to take measures to kill the enemies.


    Time passes by and they both watched from the dark. They thought that they will be safe while being on the eggs. It was when they thought that it will be a good flight without having trouble. Aulin stepped back and has accidentally stepped on one of the eggs.


    Creak!


    He stepped and the babies cried as they breathed air for the first time.


    ''Damn! They were crying like human babies!'' Aulin screamed on his mind.


    He never thought that it would be that bad when they were crushed. Knowing it, the spiders began screaming loud and spitted venomous goo from its mouth. It was the poison spitting spider that managed to be attracted and at the same time alerted to their cries. He thought that it will be their last time living so why be reserved. They both let loose to the fullest like it was their last struggle for life.


    Aulin evaded the goo by rolling over and then he used his skill [Snipe]. Killing it with one shot. It bellowed as it let go of his life, alerting the other enemies for good. The other spiders rushed like it was a great flood that came out of the queen''s chamber. Aulin and Jack nearly panicked as they both saw the enemies coming for them. It was a breathtaking view when they saw the enemies'' numbers. Both of them boasting their movement speed but it will be hard to outrun those speedy spiders. They were fast enough to create after images when they passed by.


    The first ones to the race were the hunting spiders. They were called hunters for a reason and it was their speed. Aulin and Jack went running towards the exit and were using their blink skills.


    [Shadow travel]


    Jack immediately became a shadow and he became one with the shadow. He traveled faster than Aulin who was only using his [Flash step]. He was also running with speed but Jack was faster than him. Knowing that the [Forest blessing] were only usable when in the forest. He struggled with his fate and it was all relying on his speed. He dashed like never before and used his skill [Trap assembly] on the way when he was chased by them. It was successful in trapping one enemy but it was not enough for him to stop all of them.


    "Damn Jack! I quite envy his skill! I gotta go faster than before if I am in the forest. Thinking about drawing the short straw! Damn! Damn! Damn! They were too many!" Aulin bellowed.


    Aulin turned around then jumped back to face the enemies.


    [Rapid arrow shots]


    It has to hit the spiders and some of them were down when the arrow hit them. While he was firing, he was walking backward. As he was firing he heard a yell from his back.


    "Duck!" Shouted Jack.


    Aulin immediately heeded his request.


    [Summon daggers]


    He used his skill of summoning throwing daggers to throw at the enemies. Throwing at them while moving forwards. His daggers pierced their skins and they went down without a fight. Some of them landed on the heads as Jack has aimed and thus sending them off from this world. He then used his hands to drag Aulin.


    "Let''s go!" He said to him while dragging him.


    [Flash step]


    Aulin then went towards the light as he used the skill. He was not sparing any mana just to get away from the spiders.


    [Blink stab]


    He used the blink without using the stab. Knowing it will be no enemy that he will be using it with.


    They have made ample space from the enemies. They went further and ran as their skills went to cool down. Relying on their high dexterity and move speed, they tackled the obstacles on the way. They used speed potion on their belts on the greatest emergencies and stamina potion. Moving forward towards their comrades. Knowing that they will have ample air to breathe when they will arrive there. Aulin was using all the force of his lungs to breathe heavily. It was also on the part of Jack. They were running at full speed thus they didn''t mind the sound of their steps. Going towards the light source of the cave where their friends were. They were bickering while on the way.


    "Got damn it! Why did you leave me behind?" Asked Aulin fumingly.


    "I''m sorry I forgot about you! My fear made me forget about you and ran for my life! But hey! I came back right?" Jack excused himself.


    "Damn it! Luckily, I am a Ranger! If not then I will be a living snack for them! Let''s talk about it when we finish this mission! You better pay for what you''ve done! Treating me to a meal will suffice!" Aulin bellowed at him.


    "Okay okay! But first, let''s escape!" Jack exclaimed.


    Both of them managed to arrive at their comrades panting. They have seen the light from afar and they both screamed when they saw them.


    "Help!" Both of them shouted.

 145 Lair assault part 4

    As they approached them, their comrades were alerted by their initial call. Knowing that they were approaching towards them made them prepared for the upcoming battle. As they shouted at their comrades, it was accompanied by shrieking sounds. As they waited for them, they can hear the spiders too who were approaching them. The party prepared their weapons and shields when they were alerted. Even though it was dark, their voice was loud and clear.


    "It was Jack and Aulin! They were coming!" Shouted Ann.


    "Hurry up! Cover them!" Frank shouted.


    The Mage immediately covered their backs with his spell.


    [Fireball]


    A big ball of fire was created. It was big enough to cover the two of them. While they were running towards them. The Mage shouted and fired the spell.


    "The two of you! Duck!" Their Mage shouted.


    The two of them went ducking and the spell was fired at their backs. Aulin lay down and Jack ducked while covering his head with his arms.


    Bang!


    The explosion was heard from the back and it made a great shock wave that was coming towards them.


    "Hurry up! Run!" Aulin shouted.


    "I know I know!" Jack replied.


    They went running towards them as the mage prepared another spell. As they were dashing towards them, they both saw another big ball of fire that was coming from their comrades.


    [Fireball]


    He cast the spell and then fired it up towards the enemies. They ducked at the right time when the spell came towards them.


    Bang!


    Shrieking shouts came from the fire. Burning enemies emerged from the fire and then collapsed to the floor.


    The two of them made their way towards the finish line. Making both of them very happy.


    "It''s good to be back! I am happy for a mission complete! Now back to formation!" Frank instructed them.


    They went to their formation as they prepared. The vanguards were the Warrior and the Paladin. Guarding the Mage and Priest. The rear guards were the Knight and swordsman. Now that the formation was set, the ranger,  fighter, and rogue acted as guardians of the middle. Kelvin was one of them as he can also fight. Now they have to assist each other and protect each other while guarding.


    "Hey what did you do that they were agitated that much?" Frank asked the two of them.


    "Um, you see I accidentally stepped an egg of theirs. Better prepare for the worst as they were coming." Aulin said to them.


    "Okay, everyone! Prepare for battle!" Frank yelled.


    As Frank shouted, another scream was coming from their back. Upon realizing it, their hairs went up a bit.


    "We''re surrounded!", Jack shouted.


    Kelvin was holding his bow as he sheathed his sword. Knowing that his bow was enchanted and there was a defense that he can shoot while in the distance. He changed his weapon as he saw that the defense was solid and he has the distance advantage.


    The fire was still burning and the spiders crossed it. Some of them were spitting spiders; spitting web or poison from the distance, and some were hunters; they were jumping spiders and assassin spiders.


    Shriek!!!


    They shouted with a grimace. Launching themselves on their prey.


    The assassin spider dashed towards them and the Ranger fired his arrow.


    [Rapid arrow shots]


    Arrows hurled towards the enemies and it made them killed by his arrows.


    The three jumping spiders jumped towards them and assaulted their formation. One of them was targeting the mage. Others were the Fighter and swordsman. Knowing that the enemies were coming at them, they prepared to fend them off.  The Fighter kicked them upwards and it crashed on the ceiling.


    Bang!


    The swordsman used his skill to kill the enemy that was coming for him.


    [Draw slash]


    Showing!


    His sword flashed as he slashed the spider into two. The dead body was flung on his back and it rolled over three times. The mage used his skill to prevent the enemy from further hurting him.


    [Force shield]


    Bam!


    The spider slammed into the force shield that he created. He used another skill to kill it.


    [Ice spears]


    He created spears of ice on his back and it made his back full of spears. Upon casting the spell, he fired it at the enemy.


    Babababang!!!


    All of the spears skewered the spider. Making overkill to the pitiful enemy. Right where they were standing. A jumping spider was at the ceiling. Currently looking at their Priest, it was a looking at his back while he was on the floor. Slowly, it was accompanied by other spiders who were planning to attack him.


    At a moment''s notice, it jumped at him by surprise. The Priest on their formation didn''t know the upcoming attack. They were busy on the attacks that they forgot about their Priest. Now that they were on the ceiling, they jumped towards them. On the adventurers part, it was like a rain of spiders that were coming from the top. The Mage made another [Force field] and thus protected himself. On the other hand, the Priest shouted as he was pounced on by the spider and it was on his back.


    "Ahhh!!! Get this thing off me!" He bellowed in fright.


    The others were the same too. They were all struggling as they were shaking off the spiders on their backs. The lucky ones were the heavily armored ones who only grabbed the legs of the spiders and smashed it with their weapons. While the others struggled, they were helping each other to regain the tides of battle.


    The Knight smacked the spider on their Priest''s back with his shield while the others were holding them and throws them away. With them killing each one of the jumping spiders, other spiders were attacking them. The web spitting spiders spit them with very sticky webs. It made the Knight and Paladin be struggling with the web. While they were spitting, the Mage fired his spell [Blizzard]. The Ranger too fired his arrow at the spitting spiders. Hitting them to the forehead. The Rogue didn''t want to be left behind and thus he used his skill [Summon daggers]. Throwing it on the enemies while distancing from them.


    A brawl was currently happening inside the cave. Kelvin was assisting the others who were having a bad time with the spiders. He fired at the ones who were disturbing the formation. He immediately killed them by using his enchanted bow. Knowing that it has high damage to the enemies, he fired it and the arrow nearly obliterated the spider.


    "Damn! It was too damaging!" Kelvin exclaimed to his surprise.


    He didn''t think that it has that firepower behind it. Looking at the result of his damage, he went on with his rampage. Firing at the enemies with his bow and arrow.


    The Mage approached the webbed ones and burned the web that was sticking at the paladin and Knight. The warrior also was webbed and thus his web was burned.


    They can only thank him for his generosity and help. Knowing that they have him gave them the confidence to fight on. He went back to his formation and then used his buff support towards them.


    [Speed up]


    They can feel that they were boosted up and thus they fight on. Their attack speed has risen up and thus they feel motivated. The Knight''s slashes were faster and the Paladin too was smashing the enemies faster than before. The Rogue was using his skill [Blink stab] to the enemies. Retreating while he can and then throwing summoned daggers at the enemies while somersaulting. The Priest was supporting them with [Bless] as they were combatting the enemies. Knowing that his skill will make them stronger and tougher. They hit the enemy harder than before.


    [Blinding light]


    Frank used his skill to flash the enemies. The ones on his front and the ones who were near him were blinded. The spiders were flashed by the light. Making them utterly blind for a few seconds. They used this chance to eliminate the enemies that were near them without breaking the formation. Primarily, Kelvin eliminated the ones in the distance with his overpowered bow.


    [Last stand]


    Their defense rose and they were able to hold back the remaining enemies with the buff skill. Their bravery and courage also rose. Further making their morale rose. They smashed, slashed, and fired the enemies with their weapons and skills knowing that they got the upper hand.


    While they were battling the spitting spiders, another variant of spiders appeared. They were so-called poison spiders. Appearing and rained them with poison goo. Their armors were sizzling to the acidity of the poison and it made them panic a bit.


    "Be careful of the goo! It was corrosive!" Kelvin shouted at them.

 146 Wait for future updates

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 146 Lair assault part 5

    "Be careful of their goo! It was corrosive!" Shouted Kelvin.


    Upon hearing him, it was already too late. The Priest bellowed as he was spitted on his back. He rolled to the ground to the pain.


    "Damn! I don''t have a skill [Remove negative status] or [Remove poison] in me!" He shouted.


    He was healing himself with his skills but the poison was too potent.


    [Heal]


    [Regenerate]


    He was healing himself until the poison''s effect vanishes. It was the same to the Knight and Paladin but they have armor so the effects were minimal. The swordsman and the others hide behind Mage. He used his skill to deflect the poison.


    [Force field]


    He was repelling the poison and they were sheltered in his shield.


    "Everyone retreat to the back! My skill won''t last long if it was constantly spewed." Said their Mage.


    "We should eradicate them if we wanted to live!" Kelvin shouted.


    Kelvin saw that the enemies were not able to cross the [Force field] that their Mage created. They were only bouncing off the boundary.


    "Can we attack while inside?" Kelvin asked the Mage about it.


    Upon his question, the Mage realized that they can make another plan.


    "Everyone! Move to the boundary of the shield and attack from the inside! Your attacks can pass through the shield." The Mage said while the enemies were bouncing off the boundary. Seeing that the enemies can not pass through the boundary made them regained their senses. They started walking towards the edge of the shield and then smashed their weapons to the enemies. Their weapons can pass through the shield thus they began to hit them hard.


    [Heavy hitter]


    The Paladin used his skill that made his hammer light as a feather and as heavy as an elephant. Smashing the enemies made them either splattered or the harder ones were blown to the force. They saw what Frank did so thus their morale once more reignited.


    "Hit them hard!" Shouted Frank.


    They immediately heeded to his shout and then shouted with their battle cry.


    [Draw slash]


    The Swordman slashed the enemies with his sword. Further making combo with his another skill.


    [Cleave]


    A slash that made the enemies halved with his wide arc slash. Killing them instantly.


    The Fighter was on the edge of the shield and then used his skill without further ado.


    [Pull force]


    [Shattering punch]


    Kaboom!


    As the name of the skill says, it shattered the spiders to pieces. Making them pulps that were squeezed.


    The Knight was jealous of their performance. He used his skill to slash the enemies. The greatest slash he has currently.


    [Ultimate slash]


    His sword glowed and it slashed the spiders. Using his mana as a catalyst for his skill, he slashed them with his sword. Making them cleaved by the glowing slash that was getting further like a ranged slash. Slashing through the spiders and also killed some poison spitting spiders from afar.


    Knowing that his skill of summoning mount was not the best idea in their current situation, he only used his other ultimate skill. He slashed the enemies with his sword as the enemies were not able to hit them.


    [Attack up]


    His strength rose up and then he slashed the enemies harder.


    [Swift]


    His attack speed rose and then he slashed faster than before. Making flurry while slashing the enemies.


    The Rogue was using his skill to summon daggers on his hands.


    [Summon daggers]


    Summoning it in-between his fingers. Throwing it to the enemies while they can not approach them.


    Kelvin was on a rampage. He tugs the arrow on his bow, making a perfect form to fire it up. He draws his bow with his pulling strength then aimed at the spiders.


    "Goodbye!" Kelvin said to them.


    As he said those words, he released the bowstring of the bow. Firing up the arrow towards the enemy. As the arrow hits the spider, it blasted off the part of its body when the arrow landed. Making a big hole as it pierced its path. A small shock wave was emitted when the arrow was released from the bow that made it being noticed by the others. They all looked at him when he released the arrow. After looking at him, they resumed their battle.


    It was a matter of minutes since they were fighting. The Mage was making a pained expression. He was gritting his teeth while holding on to his [Force field]. The others were also worried about their comrade.


    "Are you okay?" Asked their leader Frank.


    "I can manage. But I have to rest for a while." Said their Mage.


    "That''s okay! Better worry about yourself." Frank said to him.


    After what he said, the Mage canceled the spell he has erected. Now that the [Force field] was canceled, the enemies rushed again to surround them. The Priest managed to survive and was greatly agitated.


    "Damn you pests! I will surely make you suffer twofold from what I''ve experienced!" He shouted.


    "Die!" He shouted as he prepared his spell.


    [Holy fire]


    The fire burned them and they were shrieking. An area of effect that burns the enemies.


    "Haaaaa!!!" The Priest shouted.


    [Holy ray]


    The spell burst towards them like a ray of light. It burned and disintegrated the ones who were on its way, making the enemies turned into crisps.


    "Hahahah! Serves you right!" He chuckled.


    The enemies were obliterated by his spell. Not only did he killed the surrounding enemies by his [Holy fire], he also killed the poison spitting spiders by the distance by his [Holy ray]. Now that the spiders were obliterated. They breathed a bit then slammed their butts on the floor.


    "That was awesome! You killed them all!" Kelvin said to the Priest.


    "Yeah, thanks to that I have run out of mana. I can''t heal anymore. I have mana potion so I guess I have to drink one." He said to him.


    "Wo ho! That was awesome! We nearly died out there! Your skill was a lifesaver!" Said the Knight.


    Tapping him on his shoulders then laughed.


    The mage erected another [Force shield] to make the perimeter secured. Just in case of an assassin spider will make a surprise attack. Or a jumping spider that can attack them from above. They rested for a bit and drank mana potions. The others were drinking water after they drank the stamina potion and as well as a health potion. They have breathed for a while after an exhausting battle. They were perspiring heavily as they sat on the floor. Despite the floor is cold, their sweat was warm as it trickled the floor. Now that they were having a break, they were still alert. They have protection from the surprise attacks but not loosening up.


    After they have secured the perimeter, the Knight approached again Kelvin. He wanted to check him after the fight. He removed his helmet and his face was shown at him. It was perspiring heavily and Kelvin thought that it was hot inside his armor. Without proper ventilation made his armor very hot.


    "Hey, Kelvin! Are you alright?" He asked.


    Kelvin was shocked by his question this he replied.


    "Yeah! I am fine! My armor has stamina regeneration and I can feel that my stamina was slowly regaining." Kelvin said.


    "Wow! You have that enchantment?" He asked being surprised.


    "Yeah! It was weightless also!" Kelvin added.


    "You have a great enchanter of your armor!" He said to him.


    "Yeah! He was great!" Kelvin replied.


    The Knight then looked at his bow which was seen by its performance. He was deeply intrigued by its enchantments.


    "Can I look at the bow? Can I touch it?" He asked.


    "Yeah, sure! Go on! Try!" Kelvin said to him.


    He grabbed the bow then he felt overflowing strength permeated his muscles. He then tugged the arrow then aimed it at the boulder near them. He draws the bow and can hear the stretching noise from the bow. He fired the bow and it produced a small shockwave when he released it.


    Bang!


    The boulder was obliterated and rocks flew from the crashing point.


    "Whoa! So this is the real deal! It was not a joke after all! I might wanna see who enchanted this bow of yours!" He said to him.


    Kelvin was surprised by his request. He can only shake his head in disbelief.


    "I believe you have met him already!" Kelvin said to him.


    "What? Seriously? Who?" He questioned him.


    "He is my friend!" Kelvin said to him.


    "A what? Maybe introduce me someday okay? You''re a friend of a master enchanter buddy!?" He said to him.


    "It was Kael dummy!" Kelvin said to him then laughed.


    The Knight was flabbergasted by his actions. He doesn''t know what to say but he tried his best for his mind to go back on its track.


    "Seriously? He is a Master level?" He asked.


    Kelvin can only reply with a nod at him. He was also not sure what to say. He only knows that it will only give a clue for him to know how cool Kael was.

 147 Lair assault part 6

    "Seriously? He is a Master level?" He asked.


    Kelvin can only reply with a nod at him. He was also not sure what to say. He only knows that it will only give a clue for him to know how cool Kael was.


    "You''re joking, right? I mean he was so young! I''m not buying that you know! Nevermind that, I think we should be heading to the queen now and attack it so this mission will be finished. We gotta attack soon, so be ready." He said to him.


    Kelvin thought that he will believe him. He only rejected the thought of it. Now that he was not believing it. He nodded at him as a reply.


    The Knight walks away and then can only shake his head. Thinking that it was a joke, he walked away from him. Now that he walked away, Kelvin was left alone. He readied himself for another fight. Now that they regained their strength, they prepared for the last fight that they will fight on.


    The others were equipping their helms and shields. Even though they have scratches from the surface, it was all still manageable. Kelvin can on make a sigh, he told the truth but he was not believed that Kael was a master enchanter. Despite his efforts to say it to him, his words were rejected by him.


    Frank stood up then rallied the party. He coughed then made his announcements.


    "Okay! Now that we eliminated the spiders, we proceed to the queen''s chamber. A little sacrifice and we will finish this mission. Now let''s move towards the chamber of the queen." He instructed them.


    They now moved to form their actual formation. Kelvin was inside the formation and was holding his bow. Having the vanguard of Warrior and Paladin, the Mage and Priest on the middle. Their guards were the Ranger, Rogue, and Fighter. The rear guard was the Swordsman and the Knight. Kelvin was also guarding in the middle. He was specifically guarding the Priest and the Mage. Because both of them need great protection from enemies. Knowing that they were great damage dealers but weak in defense or endurance. They needed ample protection from the enemies.


    They marched towards the lair while under the guidance of the Ranger and Rogue. While their leader secures them, he also leads the attack. Knowing that he was a great tank, to begin with. The other shield-bearer was the Knight defends the rear, making a perfectly balanced defense. Kelvin was observing how they act and was astonished by them. They were disciplined when it comes to their formation. Maintaining their distance from each other as they walk. They were not too crowded nor too far from each other which makes them able to swing their weapons as well as cast their skills while not hitting each other.


    "We were hiding behind the eggs when the spiders passed by. It was then I have stepped upon one of the eggs and they were alarmed. It resulted in our retreat and came towards you. As I have seen, the queen''s chamber was inside further in that hole." The Ranger said then pointed at the hole further in.


    The others looked at each other and then they nodded at each other. Their leader then leads them towards the hole.


    "Okay, let''s go now. Watch your heads up above and from surprise attacks. Make a force field just in case." Frank said to them. Especially their Mage to create a [Force field].


    Their Mage immediately followed his request to take extra measures. Not knowing what will happen was what on his mind. Now that he has ample mana to use it, he used his skill to build a barrier.


    [Force field]


    A barrier was made and they all looked at it in awe. They felt more secured when it was in their sight. Kelvin and the others felt relieved as they saw it. As they were standing there, Kelvin saw an unfinished business with the eggs. The eggs were hundreds in numbers making it itchy to the eyes of Kelvin. He suggested making a solution to the problem.


    "Does anyone want to eradicate the eggs? We might wanna clear this chamber first before leaving." Kelvin said to them.


    "What he says was right! We might kill them before leaving here!" The Ranger said to them.


    The others were in thought when they heard them. They only waited for their leader to command them to attack the eggs. Their leader can only shake his head. He immediately made a command to them.


    "Well, let''s kill them right now! Shall we?" He said to them.


    The Ranger and Rogue both stomped the eggs while there were spiders inside it. They saw that the babies were premature and will die off in just a matter of time. The Paladin smashed the eggs with his hammer. Making them broken in just one smash. The swordsman slashed the eggs with finesse. Making several slices in just a flash. A slash that was fast and efficient to kill. The Knight smashed the eggs with his sword and the eggs were immediately shattered. He was laughing as he slashes the shells with his sword and he was mercilessly stomping it when they crawled outside the egg. He was merciless to the monsters despite him being a Knight. The Priest was just standing there watching them kill them. The Fighter was looking at them and only stepped one spider that was near his foot. The others were busily killing them off but the Warrior was only watching them. He was asked by the Priest why he didn''t join and he only said that it was not enjoyable killing enemies that can''t fight back. It was not challenging for him so he didn''t mind watching them. The Mage was only watching them, knowing that he has a force field that he erected and maintaining.


    They immediately smashed the eggs that were in the chamber. The cracking sound of eggs was heard one after another. Kelvin draws his sword and slashed his portion. The others also joined in the fun. Making huge experience points while killing harmless mobs was the best kind of experience for them. It was satisfying as well as effortless. Even though it was so many, it ended up so fast. Goo and blood were splattered on their armors as they finished their rampage. They have gained experience points making them level up just from the eggs.


    It has experience points equivalent to an adult spider. Killing them was hassle-free that made it like an easter egg on games. They wiped their swords and weapons with clothing to clean the goo. Not wanting to make their weapons go rusty due to the uncleaned stains.


    Kelvin sheathed his weapon after wiping it. He switched to the bow he was using and was back to business. They made small chit-chat as they felt that their character level has risen. Feeling that their overall stat rose, they used the window card that they have.


    "Wow! My character level has risen! I''ll add points to my Focus!" Said their Mage.


    He has a happy face that he wears currently when he assigned his points. The others were also doing the same thing. Forgetting that they were still inside the enemy territory and were still not safe. They were surprised by the sudden feeling of getting stronger as they were killing the spider eggs. The same to Kelvin, he saw them looking at their window cards so he also joined into the fun. He opened his window card and can see that his character level also risen. He stared at his window card after he said the triggering words to open it.


    ...


    Window card (Adventurer)


    Name: Mael Kelvin


    Age:13


    Adress: Shelkhem Village


    Status of living: Villager


    Adventure rank: Rank D¨C


    Job class: Combatant


    Character level: 57


    Job class: Combatant


    Strength (57)+


    Dexterity (57)+


    Vitality (57)+


    Focus (57)+


    Free Stat points: 171


    .....


    He saw that his level rose by three. He assumed that his first level has risen when they fought on their patrol. The other one was on their attack on the lair. The last one was when they killed the eggs. It was quite hundreds in numbers so it will be huge amounts of experience points. He also read in the past that the character level was leveling up when they kill monsters. The job-class was only leveling up when you use them frequently. This made him think that having multiple job-classes will only lead to weak skills. It was when they have been blessed by having the Systems and it changed their lives. It was one step ahead compared with others. Making their dream of mastering all job classes a dream that can be reached.

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