Author's Note:
In the previous chapters, I made a couple of mistakes regarding the character system, particularly with the missing stat between physical and magical damage, as well as between physical and magical defense. These have now been corrected. You may revisit earlier chapters to view the updated system format for a clearer understanding.
After returning home, Shen didn't waste a single second. He booted up his rig and logged in.
– Welcome Back –
Ashen's avatar shimmered into existence in the dimly lit barracks, still wrapped in the subtle glow of a recent teleport. He immediately opened his inventory and tapped on the latest addition to his gear.
[ Damascus Blade ] (Uncommon)
Physical Attack: 24
Magical Attack: 0
Attributes: None
The cold glint of the steel blade reflected off his armor. While Ashen wasn't trained in swordsmanship, the weapon's weight felt manageable in his hand. More importantly, its attack power was nearly triple that of the crude starter knife he'd been using. A satisfied smirk crept across his face.
"This'll do."
Just as he sheathed the blade, a voice boomed from behind him.
"Hey, Ashen! Gear up—we're heading out!" shouted Alex.
Ashen grabbed his gear and jogged toward the gathering point where Alex and the rest of their squad were forming up.
"Line up, everyone!" Alex barked. The sharp edge of command in his voice cut through the idle chatter. "Today, we eliminate some monkeys! Watch your flanks and protect your squadmates."
"Yes, sir!" the group responded in unison.
Ashen glanced around. Despite the discipline in their response, he could sense the undercurrent of tension—tightened grips on weapons, darting eyes, shallow breaths. For many of these recruits, this was their first real mission. The stakes weren't simulated anymore.
"I hope we can all come back in one piece…" someone muttered from behind Ashen, barely audible.
As the gates of the inner city opened, Ashen stepped into a larger courtyard and paused. His eyes widened. The space was already filled with soldiers—other battalions, fully armed and armored. The air buzzed with excitement, nervous laughter, and war stories.
Then suddenly, everything fell silent.
A single man strode into the courtyard, and even the wind seemed to respect his presence. The heavy clank of his footsteps echoed across the stone.
He was a mountain of a man—easily 210 centimeters tall, with a physique like carved granite. Blackened steel armor covered him from shoulder to toe, radiating an aura of quiet menace. Strapped across his back was a massive greatsword, nearly as tall as he was and thick enough to crush boulders.
Ashen's breath caught in his throat.
"That guy... He reminds me of Chester."
Pyro
[2nd Rank Dark Knight]
Level: ???
Even with his high perception, Ashen couldn't read Pyro's level.
"As expected... He's far beyond my current tier."
Although Ashen didn't feel fear, a primal instinct warned him: don't pick a fight with this one.
Pyro stood before the gathered forces like a living monument to war. His eyes scanned the crowd with the weight of someone who had seen too many battles—and lost too many brothers.
"The King has issued a direct order. The Troilo infestation must be eliminated before it becomes a greater threat to our people. We march now—not for glory, but for duty. Fight with honor, and return with pride."
He said no more and walked off, his presence lingering like the echo of thunder.
DING!
[Quest Received: Troilo Extermination]
Difficulty: Unknown
Troilo have begun appearing in abnormal numbers. Their aggression and growth patterns are erratic. Eliminate them before they destabilize the nearby regions.
Rewards: Based on Contribution
[Accept]
Ashen stared at the quest prompt. Unknown difficulty? That was rare. Most quests were at least categorized.
But hesitation never suited him.
[Accepted]
"Ashen, over here," Alex called him aside. The young squad leader leaned in and whispered, "That huge guy you saw—that's Pyro. I know you're curious, but don't approach him yet. The only way to get his attention is through contribution points. Stand out, and maybe… just maybe, you'll get a chance."
Ashen nodded. "Understood. I'm not in a hurry."
With everything in place, the kingdom's soldiers began their march. Armor clanked and banners waved in the wind as they moved in disciplined rows, following the path that led to their destination:
– Anguish Forest –
When they arrived, Ashen blinked in surprise. The forest was… beautiful.
Towering fruit trees lined the winding trail, and wildflowers of every hue painted the landscape with gentle colors. Birds chirped from unseen branches, and shafts of sunlight pierced the canopy like golden spears.
"This is... not what I expected from a place called 'Anguish,'" Ashen thought.
But the moment of calm was short-lived.
"Don't let the scenery fool you!" a battalion leader shouted. "This forest earned its name in blood. Stay sharp!"
Some of the new recruits laughed it off, comforted by their numbers and the presence of elite leaders.
Then it came.
A deep, resonating howl rolled through the trees like a distant avalanche. It was followed by others. Dozens. Then hundreds. The birds fell silent. The ground began to tremble.
Growls. Snarls. Branches cracking.
The enemy was coming.
Alex unsheathed his longsword and raised his voice.
"Everyone—brace yourselves! Prepare for battle!"
Ashen's heart pounded. His eyes gleamed—not with fear, but with anticipation.
Combat was about to begin.