---
Chapter 21: Into the New World
---
Village Outskirts — Sunrise
The first light of dawn crept over the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and pink.
Lucian stood at the edge of the village, his family around him.
His pack was strapped tight on his back, Grim sitting faithfully at his side.
Felix clutched his hand, sniffling loudly.
"You... you better write to me, Big Brother!" he wailed, fat tears dripping off his chin.
Lucian knelt and hugged him tight.
"I'll send you the coolest gifts too, squirt. Maybe even a dragon egg."
Felix's eyes widened like saucers.
"R-really?!"
Lucian winked.
"If I find one."
Marcus, his father, clapped a heavy hand on his shoulder.
"Make us proud, son. But remember... no matter how strong you become..."
He leaned in, smirking.
"...your old man can still whoop your ass."
Lucian laughed.
"In your dreams, pops!"
Elaina, his mother, kissed his forehead gently.
"You'll always be our little boy, no matter what heights you reach."
And Selene, Grandmother Selene, simply nodded.
"Survive first. Shine later."
Lucian swallowed hard.
He burned this moment into his memory.
Family.
Home.
A bright golden circle formed beneath his feet.
Seventeen's voice rang in his mind, calm but firm.
[System 17]:
"Teleportation sequence: Initiating. Destination: Solvia Awakeners Academy Gate Plaza."
The circle expanded, runes spinning outward like ripples across a pond.
Lucian took a deep breath.
Grim barked once, excited.
And then—
A pillar of light shot into the sky, engulfing Lucian and Grim in a blinding radiance.
The world fell away.
---
Somewhere Between Worlds
Lucian felt himself pulled through space itself —
Light twisted around him, stars blurring into streaks.
For a heartbeat, he floated in a void so vast it swallowed imagination.
And in that moment —
He felt it.
A power... ancient and limitless, watching.
[Hidden Notification: God's Gaze Detected]
A deep, thunderous laugh echoed faintly through the void.
"Interesting. Another seed has sprouted."
Lucian shivered, but before he could react—
He fell.
---
Solvia — Awakeners Academy Outer Plaza
Lucian hit the ground on one knee, landing hard but upright.
Grim tumbled beside him, landing in a furry heap.
He blinked rapidly, trying to adjust.
And then his jaw dropped.
He stood in the middle of a massive, marble-floored plaza bigger than his entire village —
Glowing teleportation circles hummed underfoot.
Giant archways stretched into the sky, each carved with different elemental runes: Fire, Water, Wind, Earth, Light, Dark.
The city beyond the gates glittered —
Tall towers of silver and crystal pierced the clouds.
Massive floating islands drifted lazily overhead, chained by beams of magic.
Dragons, gryphons, and flying beasts soared in the distance.
Thousands of other kids appeared around him, each looking just as stunned.
Some fell on their asses.
Some screamed.
Some immediately started vomiting.
Lucian laughed breathlessly.
"Holy shit..."
Seventeen beeped in his mind.
[System 17]:
"Master: Welcome to Solvia. Tutorial phase complete. True Awakener Journey Begins."
Lucian stood slowly, heart pounding in awe.
Grim barked once, wagging his tail, totally unfazed.
Lucian ruffled his fur.
"You're way too chill about this, buddy."
From the giant main gate, armored guards — real knights in black and silver armor — marched forward.
Their leader, a tall woman with scarlet hair and a scar running down her cheek, barked orders.
"Line up! New bloods to the left! Nobles and sponsored to the right!"
Lucian quickly shuffled into the left line, nudging Grim to stick close.
He glanced sideways.
Kids around him wore all kinds of clothing — some fancy silk robes, some in simple farmer outfits like him.
A few looked confident, most just terrified.
Lucian grinned.
This was it.
The starting line.
Seventeen chimed again.
[System 17]:
**"Upcoming Tasks:
Initial Academy Entrance Exam
Familiar Selection
Combat Skill Evaluation
Personal Domain Calibration"**
Lucian's smile grew wider.
"Bring it on."
---
Waiting Lines — 1 Hour Later
Lucian leaned against a marble pillar, watching the chaos.
One kid near him was crying about missing breakfast.
Another was arguing with the guards about bringing his pet chicken.
Lucian almost pissed himself laughing.
Even Grim snorted.
So much for the 'elite new generation.'
He heard two nobles arguing nearby.
"My spirit beast will eat your spirit beast alive, peasant."
"Hah! You wouldn't last a second against my family's Blood Tiger!"
Lucian rolled his eyes.
Rich kids were the same everywhere.
Grim wagged his tail innocently, baring tiny white fangs.
Lucian whispered, "Don't worry, buddy. We'll eat 'em alive instead."
---
Entrance Gate — Briefing
Finally, their batch was called forward.
The scarred knight woman stood atop a podium, voice booming magically across the plaza.
"Welcome to Solvia's Awakener Program!
Most of you will die before reaching adulthood.
Those who survive... may one day become heroes."
The crowd shivered.
Lucian's grin only widened.
She continued.
"You have been gifted with the chance to step beyond humanity's limits.
Treasure it. Or waste it and rot."
Lucian could feel it.
This place... this academy... was a furnace.
It would burn away weakness.
Only the strongest would remain.
And he would be one of them.
---
New Notifications:
[Personal Quests Unlocked]
[Solvia Public Missions Board Available]
[World Dungeon Access Pending]
[God Shop: Locked — Requires Domain Expansion]
Seventeen's voice buzzed gleefully.
[System 17]:
"Master! Multiple loot opportunities detected! Potential growth: +500% compared to village level!"
Lucian smirked.
"Oh hell yes."
Grim barked, his fur fluffing up in excitement.
The first step had been taken.
Ahead lay trials, pain, battle... and unimaginable power.
Lucian clenched his fists tightly, eyes burning with hunger and determination.
"No matter what... I will survive.
I will grow.
I will conquer."
Solvia City shimmered before him like a promise — and a battlefield.
He took his first step forward.
---
[Chapter 21 End]
------
Chapter 22: The First Blood
---
Awakeners Academy — Trial Ground 17
The air inside the trial grounds was thick with tension.
Rows of stone arenas floated mid-air, linked by narrow bridges that spun slowly around a central tower.
Each arena glowed faintly with magical runes, swirling in colors that made Lucian's skin tingle.
Grim growled low beside him.
"Easy, boy," Lucian murmured, his heart hammering in his chest.
The scarred knight woman — Commander Aria — strode across the central platform, her scar twisting as she barked commands.
"Listen up, maggots!"
Her voice echoed across the floating platforms.
"This is your first assessment!
You'll be paired randomly against another candidate.
No killing allowed... unless you're too weak to survive, in which case — too bad!"
Several kids paled instantly.
Aria grinned cruelly.
"Only 300 passes available. 1,200 of you idiots here.
Figure out the math."
Murmurs spread through the crowd.
Lucian just cracked his knuckles.
Doesn't matter. I'll smash through whoever I have to.
[System 17]:
"Warning: Hostile candidates detected nearby.
Recommendation: Minimize flashy displays.
Maximize efficient kills. Loot opportunities minimal at this stage."
Lucian smirked.
"Thanks for the advice, Seventeen."
Grim wagged his tail, almost eagerly.
---
Pairings Announced
Magical runes flared above the platform, listing random matchups.
Lucian squinted and found his name.
[Lucian Vale vs. Derek Stone]
A tall, bulky guy stepped forward from another group — heavy muscles, thick arms, and a stupid, smug smile.
He spun a giant hammer effortlessly over one shoulder.
"Hah! I get to crush a shrimp for my first match! Lucky me!"
Lucian tilted his head, smiling politely.
"I'm lucky too. I needed a warm-up."
The kid blinked, confused.
Grim chuckled — yes, somehow a wolf chuckling.
---
Arena 19 — Battle Start
Lucian and Derek stood on opposite sides of the floating stone ring.
The crowd buzzed with excitement.
Overhead, magical projections showed multiple fights at once, like a giant stadium.
Aria's voice thundered across all arenas:
"BEGIN!"
Immediately, Derek roared, charging forward with his hammer raised high.
Lucian didn't move.
He waited, heart steady.
As the hammer whistled down — enough force to crush a bear —
Lucian stepped aside gracefully.
BOOM!
The hammer smashed into the stone floor, sending cracks racing outward.
Lucian moved in like a shadow.
One step. Two steps. Three.
His hand snapped forward, fingers glowing faintly.
[Skill: Disruption Touch (Minor)]
He slapped Derek's exposed ribs lightly.
The effect was immediate.
The big guy stumbled, coughing violently as his mana circuits spasmed.
Lucian didn't waste the opening.
He spun, swept Derek's legs, and —
CRACK!
— dropped the idiot face-first into the cracked stone.
The entire fight lasted... maybe ten seconds.
Silence.
Then — a slow ripple of clapping from a few examiners watching.
Lucian stood over his fallen opponent, dusting his hands.
He glanced at the stunned crowd and smiled sweetly.
"Next."
---
Victory Notification
[Victory: Derek Stone Defeated!]
[+10 Trial Points]
[+ Minor Loot Chance: 1 Random Core Fragment!]
[Core Fragment Acquired: Muscle Enhancement (Lv. 1)]
Seventeen chimed happily.
[System 17]:
"Congratulations, Master! Efficient ass-kicking detected!"
Lucian laughed under his breath.
"Let's keep it rolling."
Grim barked, tail thumping like a drum.
---
Meanwhile — Other Arenas
All around him, chaos reigned.
Kids screamed as spells clashed, beasts roared, swords clashed against shields.
One kid accidentally set his own pants on fire.
Another girl summoned a spirit frog that exploded in glitter.
Lucian couldn't help it — he howled laughing at the frog explosion.
Seventeen buzzed disapprovingly.
[System 17]:
"Master: Please maintain battlefield decorum. Frogs are not to be mocked."
Lucian wiped a tear away.
"Even you can't defend that tragic frog, Seventeen."
---
Second Match — Stronger Opponent
His next opponent was... different.
[Lucian Vale vs. Sylvia Crestwater]
A tall girl with silver hair, sharp gray eyes, and an aura that prickled Lucian's skin.
She carried two thin swords that hummed with mana.
And she didn't talk.
Just nodded once, taking a stance.
Lucian grinned.
Finally. A real fight.
---
Battle Start
This time, Lucian didn't wait.
He lunged first, using Grim as a distraction.
Grim darted left — a blur of gray fur —
Sylvia reacted instantly, pivoting to defend.
Lucian twisted right, appearing at her blind spot.
Their blades clashed —
CLANG!
— sparks flying.
She was fast.
Almost too fast.
Lucian ducked under a sweeping slash, rolled, and kicked at her knee.
Sylvia leapt back, flipping gracefully.
Their gazes locked.
Respect flickered between them.
This would be a dance, not a brawl.
Lucian chuckled.
"Let's dance, princess."
Sylvia said nothing — just attacked harder.
---
Five Minutes Later
Both were breathing hard, circling warily.
Lucian had a shallow cut across his left forearm.
Sylvia had bruises blooming under her ribs.
The crowd around their arena was bigger now — people cheering, gasping.
This was a real fight.
Seventeen chimed again.
[System 17]:
"Master: Analysis complete.
Weak point detected: Slight imbalance on her left ankle during wide swings."
Lucian's eyes gleamed.
"Thanks, partner."
---
The Decisive Move
Sylvia lunged, swords flashing in a deadly arc.
Lucian feinted left — and when she shifted to counter—
He dropped low, sweeping her left foot clean off the ground.
She stumbled.
Lucian surged forward, tapping her chest lightly with two fingers — glowing faintly with mana disruption.
Zap!
Sylvia froze, muscles locking up just enough.
Lucian caught her as she toppled, gently lowering her to the ground.
The referees immediately ended the match.
Victory!
---
Post-Fight
Sylvia sat up, breathing hard, staring at him.
For the first time, she smiled — a tiny, sharp smile.
"You're good," she admitted.
Lucian shrugged.
"I have my moments."
She stood, offered him a hand.
He took it, grinning.
Maybe... he'd made a worthy rival today.
---
Notifications:
[Victory: Sylvia Crestwater Defeated!]
[+20 Trial Points]
[Loot Bonus: Sword Proficiency Enhancement (Minor)]
[Favorable Impression Gained: Sylvia Crestwater]
Seventeen buzzed excitedly.
[System 17]:
"Master! Good job! Also: You have a 14% chance she has a crush on you now."
Lucian nearly tripped.
"Wha-?! Shut up, Seventeen!"
Grim howled laughing.
---
End of Day 1
By sunset, Lucian had won three matches, survived one draw, and had 30 points — putting him in the top 5% rankings.
As the last rays of sunlight bathed the trial grounds in blood-red light,
Lucian looked over the massive city of Solvia sprawled below the academy towers.
This was only the beginning.
He could feel it — deep in his bones.
The world awaited him.
And he wasn't planning to lose.
---
[Chapter 22 End]---
Chapter 23: Hidden Dungeon – Trial of the Brave!
---
Awakeners Academy — Trial Ground, Next Morning
Lucian stretched lazily, watching the golden morning sun rise above the massive spires of Solvia City.
Grim napped beside him, tail twitching.
The first round of the Entrance Exams was over.
Now, it was time for the real test — Dungeon Exploration.
Hundreds of students milled about nervously on the massive teleportation platform, checking their gear.
Commander Aria appeared, arms folded, her scarred face cold as winter steel.
"Listen up, worms!" she barked.
"You survived the first round. Good.
Now it's time to separate the strong from the lucky!"
A magical projection floated over her head — a sprawling underground labyrinth.
[Training Dungeon: Beginner Difficulty]
12 floors
Random traps
Beast nests
Treasure rooms
Boss monsters
Aria's grin widened cruelly.
"Objective: Reach the 6th floor or higher in 2 days.
Optional: Reach the 10th floor for bonus rewards."
She paused dramatically.
"And if you die... well, your corpses will feed the dungeon beasts. Saves us cleanup costs."
The students gulped.
Lucian just chuckled under his breath.
Finally. A real challenge.
[System 17]:
"Master: Scanning Dungeon Layout...
Warning: 87% chance of random anomalies.
Possible Hidden Dungeon nearby.
Suggestion: Investigate anomalies for loot jackpot!"
Lucian's eyes gleamed.
Hidden dungeon? Jackpot? Oh yes. Let's fucking go.
---
Teleportation Activation
Massive runes glowed under Lucian's feet.
With a flash of blinding light, the world twisted —
— and he landed inside the dungeon.
Stone walls.
Flickering blue torches.
Cold, damp air thick with mana.
Grim growled low beside him, hackles raised.
Ahead, dozens of tunnels branched off, twisting into darkness.
Already, sounds of fighting echoed in the distance — screams, clashing steel, monstrous roars.
Lucian cracked his neck.
"Alright, partner.
Let's find that hidden dungeon."
Grim barked, tail wagging excitedly.
Adventure time.
---
First Blood
Lucian didn't have to wait long.
Around the first corner, three goblin warriors lunged at him — filthy green skin, jagged knives dripping poison.
[Beast: Dungeon Goblin (F Rank)]
Lucian didn't hesitate.
Step to the side —
Grab the first goblin's wrist —
Twist — SNAP! —
Drive a knee into its face — CRACK!
The goblin crumpled.
The other two hesitated for a second.
Lucian grinned.
Big mistake.
He pointed two fingers forward.
[Skill: Bone Pierce]
Mana condensed sharply.
SHUNK! SHUNK!
Two thin bone lances shot forward, impaling the goblins through their throats.
They gurgled once, then dropped.
---
Loot Notification
[Dungeon Goblin x3 Defeated!]
[Loot Acquired: Core Fragments x3, Rusty Knife x1, Goblin Teeth x5]
[Skill Absorption Chance: 2%]
[Failed: No New Skills]
Seventeen buzzed softly.
[System 17]:
"Weak trash. Minimal loot value. Moving on recommended."
Lucian kicked one goblin corpse aside, snorting.
"I wasn't expecting treasure from ugly little green rats."
Grim sniffed around, then barked twice — pointing deeper into a dark, narrow side passage.
Lucian's eyes narrowed.
This path... wasn't on the projected map.
Bingo.
Hidden dungeon detected.
---
Side Passage — Deeper Underground
The tunnel narrowed, barely wide enough for Lucian to squeeze through.
The walls pulsed faintly — organic and gross, like living flesh.
Lucian wrinkled his nose.
"Okay, this is seriously messed up."
Grim whimpered slightly, but pushed forward bravely.
Seventeen chimed.
[System 17]:
"Warning: Hostile Dungeon Environment detected.
Entering 'Trial of the Brave' Hidden Instance.
Rewards scaled by performance."
Lucian grinned.
"Trial of the Brave, huh?
Bring it on, assholes."
---
Hidden Dungeon: Trial of the Brave — Floor 1
As he emerged from the narrow tunnel, the world opened up.
A massive underground cavern stretched before him.
Ancient ruins towered into the darkness, broken statues of forgotten gods looming like giants.
Blood-red mist swirled at the floor, hiding traps and beasts.
[Trial Objective: Survive and Conquer]
Across the cavern, dozens of monstrous beasts prowled — bigger, meaner, and much deadlier than regular dungeon mobs.
Armored lizard beasts
Skeletal wolves
Mana-bloated slimes
A giant, three-eyed serpent coiled around a broken obelisk
Lucian's mouth watered.
So many cores... so much loot... so much EXP.
Seventeen buzzed ominously.
[System 17]:
"Master: Probability of death... very high.
Probability of massive gains... also very high."
Lucian cracked his knuckles.
"Sounds fair."
---
First Wave
The skeletal wolves spotted him first.
They howled — a bone-chilling sound — and charged across the blood-mist floor.
Lucian grinned, mana surging around him.
He raised both hands.
[Skill: Rise Undead (Minor)]
The dead goblin bodies behind him twitched violently.
Bones snapping, green flesh blackening, they rose — grotesque, snarling undead goblins.
Lucian pointed at the wolves.
"Attack, my little idiots!"
The goblin zombies screeched and threw themselves at the incoming wolves.
---
Chaos
Bones cracked.
Teeth snapped.
Mana flared.
Lucian darted through the chaos, a living shadow.
He sidestepped a lunging wolf, spun behind it, and drove a conjured bone dagger through its skull.
One down.
Grim tackled another, jaws crunching bone.
Lucian conjured a second dagger, impaling a slime trying to sneak up on him.
---
Loot Explosions
Each kill triggered loot drops.
Small orbs of mana floated above corpses —
— Core Fragments
— Skill Essences
— Mana Stones
Lucian swept them up greedily.
Seventeen beeped excitedly.
[System 17]:
"Master! Loot acquired! New skill unlocked:
'Minor Mana Absorption'!"
Lucian's smile widened.
Perfect. Now he could recover mana while fighting.
---
Mini-Boss Encounter
As he tore through wave after wave of beasts, a deep rumbling shook the cavern.
The giant, three-eyed serpent uncoiled slowly.
It hissed — a sound like stone grinding against stone.
Lucian stared up at it.
At least 30 meters long.
Scales like armored plates.
Three glowing crimson eyes locked onto him.
[Boss: Blood-Eyed Basilisk — F+ Rank]
Seventeen buzzed warningly.
[System 17]:
"Master: Immediate threat detected!
Probability of death: 72%!
Suggestion: Run!"
Lucian grinned.
"Nah.
Let's dance, you ugly bastard."
---
Boss Battle: Blood-Eyed Basilisk
The serpent lunged — a blur of impossible speed.
Lucian threw himself aside, rolling across the blood-mist floor.
Its massive jaws snapped shut where he'd stood a moment before.
Lucian surged up, firing two bone lances at its nearest eye.
SHUNK! SHUNK!
The serpent roared in rage, recoiling.
Only minor scratches.
Lucian cursed under his breath.
"Grim! Go for the eyes!"
The wolf barked once and darted forward, zigzagging through the mist.
The basilisk snapped at him — missing by inches.
Lucian charged after, throwing conjured bone daggers like a madman.
Each one chipped scales, leaving tiny bleeding wounds.
---
Battle Rages On
The cavern shook with every impact.
Lucian ducked and weaved, using every trick Seventeen had taught him.
Mana surged through his body — faster, sharper.
Finally, he saw his chance.
The basilisk reared back, preparing to unleash a beam attack from its central eye.
Lucian sprinted forward.
[Skill: Bone Lance — Overcharge!]
A massive, jagged bone spear formed in his hands —
— swirling with black mana.
With a roar, he hurled it like a javelin.
THUNK!
It slammed into the basilisk's open eye socket — deep, deep inside.
The serpent screamed, thrashing wildly.
Lucian didn't wait.
He vaulted up its body, grimacing at the slime and blood,
and drove another conjured dagger through its brain.
The giant beast convulsed — once, twice —
Then collapsed with an earth-shaking crash.
---
Victory Notification
[Boss Defeated: Blood-Eyed Basilisk!]
[Massive EXP Gained!]
[Loot Acquired: Basilisk Core, Basilisk Scale Fragment x20, Blood-Eye Skill Essence]
[Hidden Bonus Acquired: Bloodline Fragment: Basilisk Eyes]
Seventeen beeped excitedly.
[System 17]:
"Master! You obtained a Bloodline Fragment!
New Skill Tree Unlocked: Basilisk Mutations!"
Lucian stood atop the fallen beast, chest heaving, arms slick with blood and slime.
He grinned savagely.
"This...
This is just the beginning."
---
[Chapter 23 End]
---
Chapter 23 Highlights:
Introduction of Dungeon Exploration
Hidden Dungeon discovered: "Trial of the Brave"
Loot system in full swing: cores, artifacts, bloodlines
First Boss Battle won (Blood-Eyed Basilisk)
Lucian unlocking a Bloodline Mutation Tree---
Chapter 24: Blood Awakening – The Basilisk's Eyes!
---
Awakeners Academy — Dungeon Exit, Late Night
Lucian stumbled out of the cracked tunnel, covered in blood and dust, carrying a heavy sack stuffed with cores, artifacts, and beast materials.
Grim limped slightly at his side — his fur stained with blood, but his eyes burning fiercely.
The main dungeon corridor outside was nearly deserted.
Only a few other students, battered and exhausted, trudged toward the teleportation array.
Most hadn't even reached the 4th floor yet.
Lucian?
He had just cleared a hidden dungeon and solo-killed a mini-boss.
Seventeen buzzed quietly:
[System 17]:
"Master: Current Achievement Score — 500% above average.
Hidden Rewards pending.
Potential Rank: Top 1%."
Lucian smirked.
Not bad for a 'nobody village brat', huh?
But before he could reach the teleport pad —
A soft voice stopped him.
---
Mysterious Examiners
Two figures in black cloaks stepped from the shadows.
Their faces were hidden, but their auras were suffocating — like mountains pressing down.
Even Grim growled nervously, stepping closer to Lucian.
Lucian narrowed his eyes, keeping his body loose and ready.
The taller figure spoke, voice smooth like silk:
"You're... interesting, boy."
The second figure chuckled darkly.
"Hidden dungeon cleared.
Bloodline fragment obtained.
Solo boss kill.
All without formal training."
The taller one nodded approvingly.
"Very interesting."
Lucian clenched his fists subtly.
He didn't know who they were — examiners? spies? — but his instincts screamed danger.
Before he could reply, the taller figure flicked his wrist.
A small coin-sized badge flew toward Lucian, who caught it reflexively.
It shimmered faintly with hidden runes.
"Use it when you're ready," the man said.
"Talent like yours... deserves opportunities."
With that cryptic message, the two disappeared into the shadows — as if they had never existed.
Lucian stared at the badge, heart pounding.
[Item Acquired: Black Badge — Special Invitation]
Seventeen whispered softly:
[System 17]:
"Master: High-tier organization invitation suspected.
Extreme caution recommended."
Lucian stuffed the badge away.
He'd deal with that later.
---
Teleportation — Return to Surface
Lucian and Grim stepped onto the teleportation circle.
Light engulfed them.
A heartbeat later, they reappeared at the Academy's open-air plaza.
Fresh air.
Moonlight.
Distant sounds of city life.
It felt... good to be alive.
Students nearby stared at him in shock — bloody, battered, carrying loot like a mini-armory.
Whispers started immediately.
"Who is that?"
"Did he solo clear the dungeon?"
"That wolf... it's not normal..."
"Is he from a hidden clan?!"
Lucian ignored them.
He wasn't here to make friends.
He was here to get stronger.
---
Private Room — Awakening Ritual
Later that night, inside a private academy room assigned to dungeon survivors, Lucian finally sat cross-legged.
He had washed, bandaged Grim's wounds, and spread out the loot.
Cores.
Mana stones.
Artifact fragments.
And at the very center —
— a blood-red orb, pulsing faintly.
[Item: Bloodline Fragment — Basilisk Eyes]
Seventeen spoke gently:
[System 17]:
"Master:
Warning.
Absorbing a Bloodline Fragment is irreversible.
Risk of death: 8%.
Risk of mutation: 14%.
Benefit: Permanent bloodline abilities unlocked."
Lucian stared at the orb.
His heart raced.
If I want to survive in this cruel world...
If I want to protect my village...
If I want to grow stronger...
Then there was only one choice.
He reached out.
The moment his fingers touched the orb —
Agony.
---
Blood Awakening
It felt like molten iron poured into his veins.
Lucian gasped, body convulsing.
Veins darkened, muscles locked up, bones cracked and realigned.
His vision blurred — then sharpened with terrifying clarity.
He could see the tiniest cracks in the stone walls.
The faint heat signatures of insects crawling outside.
Even the tiny specks of mana drifting in the air.
Grim barked anxiously, pawing at him.
Lucian gritted his teeth.
Hold on.
Hold on, damn it!
The orb dissolved into pure blood energy, flooding into his heart —
— reshaping it.
His eyes burned as if they were being ripped apart and rebuilt.
When he finally collapsed, gasping, it was over.
Slowly, shakily, Lucian stood up.
He stumbled toward a mirror.
What he saw made him freeze.
---
New Form
His once-dark brown eyes were now a deep, molten gold, slit like a reptile's.
Faint, swirling patterns of blood-red scales coiled at the edges of his irises.
Basilisk Eyes.
Seventeen's voice was almost reverent.
[System 17]:
"Master:
Bloodline Awakening successful.
Abilities unlocked:"
Basilisk Gaze (Minor): Chance to paralyze weaker enemies with eye contact.
Thermal Vision: See heat signatures through walls or smoke.
Mana Perception: Detect mana sources and hidden beings.
Lucian touched his face, stunned.
So this is the power of a bloodline.
Seventeen added:
[System 17]:
"Side Effect: Grim has absorbed residual bloodline energy.
Minor Evolution triggered."
Lucian whipped around.
Grim was glowing faintly, fur darkening to an even deeper black, muscles thickening, fangs sharpening.
The little wolf whined once, then stood taller — sleeker, stronger, fiercer.
Lucian knelt down, grinning despite himself.
"Good boy."
Grim wagged his tail proudly.
---
Quiet Before the Storm
For a long moment, Lucian just sat there, breathing deeply.
Outside the window, the city lights of Solvia twinkled in the night.
A new chapter of his life had begun.
He had a bloodline now.
A loyal partner.
A hidden domain.
A growing power that no one yet suspected.
But deep in the academy shadows —
Powerful eyes were already watching.
Jealous eyes.
Hungry eyes.
Dangerous eyes.
Lucian smiled coldly.
Let them come.
I'm ready.
---
[Chapter 24 End]
---
Chapter 24 Highlights:
Bloodline Fragment absorbed: Basilisk Eyes unlocked
Grim's minor evolution
Academy examiners secretly recruiting
Massive power boost: new vision, paralyzing gaze
Subtle setup for future dangers and enemies
------
Chapter 25: Special Assignment – The Young Master's Humiliation
---
Next Morning – Awakeners Academy Grand Hall
Golden sunlight poured through the towering windows, casting a warm glow over the main assembly.
Today was no ordinary day.
Hundreds of students, both new and old, had been summoned here.
Why?
Because today, the Academy was announcing the Special Assignments — elite missions, secret expeditions, and hidden dungeon raids that would decide the true ranks of every participant.
In other words — time to separate lions from sheep.
Lucian stood quietly near the back, wearing his new Academy uniform: a black-and-gold battle jacket with a silver badge pinned to his chest.
Grim was curled at his feet, dozing — but one ear twitched constantly, alert for danger.
Lucian's molten gold eyes flickered lazily across the hall, observing.
Almost instantly, he felt it:
Envy.
Curiosity.
Hatred.
So many stares.
So many whispers.
Especially after his bloodline awakening — rumors had exploded.
"That's him — the Basilisk eyes!"
"I heard he soloed the hidden dungeon..."
"F*ck, he's from a commoner village, right?!"
"How did a dog bastard get a bloodline?!"
Lucian ignored them.
Their opinions mean less than dirt.
Seventeen buzzed softly:
[System 17]:
"Master:
System calculation complete.
Estimated jealousy level: 94%.
Recommendation: Ignore low-IQ insects."
Lucian almost laughed aloud.
Good advice, Seventeen.
---
Announcement Begins
A thunderous boom echoed through the hall as Headmaster Orion appeared.
The man was a legend — an S-rank powerhouse whose mere gaze could make weaklings piss themselves.
Today, he wore formal robes — black with silver phoenix embroidery.
His voice rolled over the crowd like a storm:
"Listen well, students!"
"The Academy is not a shelter."
"It is a battlefield."
"If you wish to rise, you must bleed."
"If you wish to lead, you must crush."
He raised a hand, and hundreds of floating crystal tablets appeared in the air.
Each tablet listed special assignments — missions across Solvia Kingdom and beyond.
Raid missing dungeons.
Subdue monster outbreaks.
Hunt rogue Awakeners.
Escort VIPs through dangerous territories.
And at the very top —
Hidden Class Recruitment Trials.
Lucian's eyes sharpened.
That's the real prize.
---
The Young Master Appears
Before Lucian could move, trouble arrived.
A loud, arrogant voice cut through the hall:
"Oi!
You!"
Lucian turned lazily to see a richly dressed boy, about sixteen, stomping toward him.
Silk clothes, expensive jewelry, a smug face that begged for a punch.
Behind him followed three bootlickers — grinning nastily.
Young Master Derrick Valen.
Third son of a Marquis family.
A spoiled brat who believed his shit smelled like roses.
Lucian had heard about him.
Apparently, Derrick's pride had been wounded when rumors spread that "some orphan trash" had stolen the spotlight.
Now, here he was, ready to bark.
Derrick sneered:
"You think you're hot shit, huh?
Solo dungeon clear, bloodline awakening?"
He stepped closer, poking Lucian's chest.
"Let me tell you something, dog —"
SLAP.
In one motion, Lucian casually slapped Derrick's finger away — so hard the Young Master staggered back, clutching his hand, stunned.
The hall went dead silent.
Gasps echoed.
Someone even dropped their mana tablet with a loud clatter.
---
Comedy Scene — Public Humiliation
Lucian tilted his head, smiling faintly:
"Sorry.
Your finger was ugly.
Had to fix it."
The three bootlickers turned red.
Derrick's face twisted in rage.
"You — you bastard!
Do you know who I am?!"
Lucian yawned dramatically.
"Nope.
Don't care."
Derrick trembled with fury.
He pulled out a glowing golden token — a Duel Challenge token.
"I challenge you, trash!" he screamed.
"A formal Academy duel!
Here and now!"
Students gasped louder.
Formal duels weren't a joke.
If you accepted, you had to fight.
If you refused, your honor was considered broken — even if you had a good reason.
Lucian's grin sharpened.
Perfect.
He lazily stretched.
Seventeen chimed happily:
[System 17]:
"Master:
Opportunity detected.
Public humiliation + loot potential = 87%."
Lucian cracked his knuckles.
"Alright," he said casually.
"I accept."
---
The Duel — "David vs Goliath"
The academy staff quickly cleared space.
A shimmering golden barrier formed a dueling arena.
Lucian stepped inside lazily, Grim sitting calmly outside the ring, tail wagging.
Derrick stormed in, pulling out a lavishly enchanted sword — probably worth more than an entire village.
"I'll cripple you, commoner scum!" he howled.
Lucian just smiled lazily, arms behind his back.
The referee — an old battle instructor — called out:
"BEGIN!"
Derrick roared, lunging forward, swinging his sword with enough mana force to crack stone.
Lucian stepped sideways lightly, dodging effortlessly.
He didn't even summon a weapon.
Just pure footwork and prediction.
Derrick's swings grew more wild.
More desperate.
Lucian dodged.
And dodged.
And dodged again.
Students watching started laughing nervously.
It looked like a child chasing a butterfly.
Seventeen updated coldly:
[System 17]:
"Enemy Stamina: 62%... 41%... 28%..."
Lucian yawned dramatically mid-dodge.
The crowd burst into laughter.
Even some instructors coughed, hiding smiles.
Finally, Derrick stumbled, panting, face beet red.
Lucian decided to end it.
He slid forward like a ghost, grabbed Derrick's wrist, twisted — and flipped him over his shoulder.
The Young Master smashed into the ground with a scream.
Lucian calmly placed his boot on Derrick's chest.
Victory.
The hall exploded in cheers and whistles.
---
Aftermath — Crushing Reputation
The referee raised Lucian's hand.
"Winner — Lucian Blackthorn!"
(He was forced to take a surname for Academy registration.)
Derrick lay groaning, humiliated beyond measure.
Worse?
Under Academy law, losers of public duels must compensate the winner — either in money, artifacts, or service.
Lucian grinned devilishly.
He held out his hand:
"Your sword.
Now."
Derrick's face went pale.
That sword was his family heirloom!
But he had no choice.
Trembling with rage and shame, Derrick handed it over.
Lucian sheathed the glowing blade lazily.
[Item Acquired: Valenblood Saber – Grade: Epic]
Seventeen buzzed gleefully:
[System 17]:
"Loot Successful: Artifact acquired!
Estimated market value: 4000 gold."
Lucian leaned down, whispering:
"Thanks for the donation, Young Master."
He walked away, Grim prancing proudly beside him, leaving Derrick to cry silent tears on the ground.
---
Later — Special Assignment Received
Lucian approached the floating crystal tablets.
He placed his hand on one, and a hidden mission activated:
[Special Assignment Acquired: Explore the Ruins of Eldrun — Reward: Unknown Bloodline Evolution, 1000 Academy Points, Artifact Chest.]
Lucian's eyes gleamed.
Adventure awaited.
He whistled lightly, Grim wagging his tail.
The road ahead would be bloody.
Dangerous.
Glorious.
Exactly how he liked it.
---
[Chapter 25 End]
---
ChapterChapter 26: March to the Ruins of Eldrun
---
Two Days Later – Outskirts of Mistwood Forest
The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers.
A dirt road wound its way into the dark green forest ahead, disappearing into shadow.
Lucian stood at the edge, adjusting the leather straps of his lightweight armor.
His new Valenblood Saber hung at his waist, faintly pulsing with mana.
Grim sat beside him, wearing a custom-forged collar infused with defensive runes.
Behind them, a small squad of Academy students gathered nervously.
Team Members:
Lucian (Squad Leader) – Hidden Necromancer
Mira Elwynn – Archer, Beast Tamer (quiet but deadly)
Dorian Kaine – Heavy Swordsman (muscle brain)
Lyra Vale – Water Mage (sarcastic, but skilled)
Finn Hollow – Healer and Trap Specialist (timid but genius)
Officially, this was a "team-building mission."
Unofficially?
It was a f**king meat grinder.
Everyone knew it.
Even the Academy instructors barely hid their smiles when they explained:
"Only bring what you're willing to lose."
Lucian smirked.
Perfect.
He needed a real battlefield.
Not fake duels and practice rounds.
And more importantly —
The System had detected a special hidden quest deep inside the ruins.
[System 17]:
"Master:
Quest Analysis –
Hidden Dungeon within Ruins confirmed.
Estimated difficulty: Tier B.
Warning: High mortality risk."
Lucian's blood sang.
Finally.
A real challenge.
---
March Begins – Comedy Moments
The team marched into the forest under the golden afternoon sun.
Mira walked silently, sharp green eyes scanning the trees.
Dorian tromped along like an armored bear, sword strapped across his back.
Lyra complained non-stop.
"This humidity is a crime against humanity," she muttered, fanning herself with mana.
"And why the f*ck are there so many mosquitoes?!"
Finn squeaked, slapping his arm.
"I-I think something bit me… again!"
Lucian chuckled lowly.
He had applied a special herb ointment over himself and Grim — making them practically invisible to most bugs.
The others hadn't.
Natural selection at work, Lucian thought lazily.
Suddenly — a loud buzzing noise.
Mira snapped her bow up instantly.
But it was too late.
A swarm of fat, bloodthirsty jungle bees descended from a hollow tree, straight at Dorian.
The big swordsman screamed like a girl.
"AAAAARGH!
THEY'RE IN MY PANTS!"
The whole squad froze.
Lucian blinked.
Then burst out laughing.
Even Mira cracked a tiny smile.
Dorian dropped his sword, running in circles, slapping his thighs desperately.
Lucian casually drew a small bone flute from his belt — an artifact he had looted earlier — and blew a sharp note.
A pulse of mana rippled out, confusing the bees.
They scattered, leaving Dorian whimpering on the ground, pants torn, pride shattered.
Lyra doubled over laughing.
"You — you looked like you were twerking for your life!"
Finn tried to heal Dorian's dozens of stings, cheeks bright red from holding back laughter.
Lucian patted Dorian's shoulder sympathetically.
"Congratulations," he said.
"You've unlocked a new dance style: Bee Twerking Martial Art."
The squad snorted and chuckled all the way until sunset.
---
Camp – Preparation Before the Ruins
That night, they camped near an ancient river.
Lucian ordered tight security rotations.
He personally inspected the camp perimeter, laying hidden traps.
Mira and Finn assisted, setting up alarm charms and mana tripwires.
Meanwhile, Grim prowled silently, marking the nearby area with territorial mana.
The team cooked a rough dinner — salted meat, forest herbs, and dried fruits.
Dorian groaned, sitting down gingerly.
"Those f*cking bees better not exist inside the ruins."
Lyra grinned wickedly.
"You're just scared another insect will fall in love with you."
Dorian grunted.
"I don't judge based on species."
Lucian smirked quietly.
The banter was good.
It built trust.
Tomorrow would be hell.
He knew it.
But a little laughter now?
Priceless.
---
Late Night – Hidden Meeting
Deep into the night, while the others slept, Lucian sat cross-legged by the fire, Grim lying nearby.
Seventeen's voice hummed softly in his mind.
[System 17]:
**"Master:
Latest scan results confirmed.
Ruins contain:
Entrance to hidden B-rank Dungeon (Sealed)
Artifact Fragments (3 confirmed)
Bloodline Essence Pool (Dormant)
Avatar Fragment (Unclaimed)."**
Lucian's heart pounded faster.
Bloodline Pool? Avatar Fragment?
These were ultra-rare treasures!
Bloodline pools could mutate or strengthen a person's bloodline, while Avatar Fragments could grant insane passive abilities once merged.
Seventeen added:
"Master:
Primary Objective:
Unlock Dungeon Core.
Loot Priority: Bloodline Pool > Avatar Fragment > Artifact Fragments."
Lucian exhaled slowly, steadying himself.
Tomorrow would change everything.
If he succeeded?
He would climb a step higher toward true power.
If he failed?
A forgotten corpse in a ruin.
Simple.
---
Next Morning – Arrival at the Ruins
Mist coiled like living snakes as they approached the ruins.
Ancient broken pillars jutted from the ground like bones.
Massive stone doors half-buried under vines stood before them.
Moss covered carvings of beasts, gods, and battles.
Even the air felt heavier — ancient, oppressive.
Lyra shivered.
"Why does this place feel like it's watching us?"
Finn gulped.
"I-I think there's... spirits."
Lucian stepped forward calmly.
He placed a hand on the stone door.
It was cold.
Dead.
But beneath that death...
A heartbeat.
Faint.
Hungry.
Seventeen confirmed:
[System 17]:
"Master:
Dungeon heartbeat detected.
Warning: Dormant traps within 50 meters."
Lucian turned to the squad.
"This place is alive," he said simply.
"Stay alert.
Stay close.
No hero bullshit."
Dorian nodded grimly.
Mira strung her bow tightly.
Lyra summoned small spheres of water, floating around her like shields.
Finn clutched his mana staff so hard his knuckles turned white.
Lucian smiled faintly.
Good.
Fear sharpened survival instincts.
---
Entering the Ruins – First Blood
With a grinding roar, Lucian pushed the massive door open slightly — just enough for them to slip through.
Inside?
Darkness.
Dust.
And death.
The air stank of mold, rotting mana, and ancient hatred.
Glowing fungi clung to the walls, casting eerie green light.
The first chamber was massive — hundreds of meters wide.
Broken statues and shattered pillars littered the floor.
At the far end, a grand staircase spiraled downward into blackness.
But before they could move —
A rumble.
Cracks splintered across the floor.
And from the shadows crawled the first guardians:
Stone Golems.
Eight of them.
Each one the size of a bull.
Eyes burning with red mana.
Mira reacted instantly — firing three arrows in a flash.
Dorian roared, sword drawn.
Lyra weaved water whips.
Lucian smiled darkly.
Finally.
Real combat.
He drew his new Valenblood Saber.
Mana surged.
And together —
They charged into battle.
---
[Chapter 26 End]
------
Chapter 27: Baptism of Blood and Stone
---
Inside the Forgotten Ruins of Eldrun
The first blow came from above.
A hulking Stone Golem — easily 3 meters tall, with arms like granite tree trunks — leapt down from a broken arch, fists raised to crush them.
Lucian's body reacted before thought.
[Skill Activated: Bone Step Lv1]
WHOOSH!
He disappeared in a blink, reappearing behind the falling golem mid-air.
His Valenblood Saber flashed.
A sharp CRACK! echoed as he sliced a deep gouge into the golem's back, exposing inner mana circuits glowing like red veins.
"Focus on the mana cores!" Lucian barked.
Dorian roared, swinging his heavy sword horizontally.
The impact shattered a golem's knee — sending it crashing sideways.
Lyra chanted, her water whips transforming into high-pressure slicing blades, carving through another golem's rocky joints.
Finn — trembling — stabbed his staff into the ground, activating multiple mana mines he'd secretly buried earlier.
BOOM!
BOOM!
BOOM!
Three stone guardians exploded into shards.
Their cores — fist-sized glowing red crystals — fell clinking onto the ground.
---
[System 17]:
> "Master:
Golem Mana Core x3 obtained.
Processing loot…"
Lucian grinned wickedly.
System, you beautiful bastard.
He could already imagine the loot menu popping later.
But first —
More death.
Another golem charged him — faster than its size suggested.
Lucian sidestepped gracefully, saber dancing in his hands.
He aimed for the joints — wrists, ankles, knees.
Each precise strike chipped mana lines, disrupting the golem's balance.
Behind him, Grim lunged like a black comet.
His claws glowed with necrotic energy as he shredded into the stone chest, digging straight toward the core.
The golem shuddered violently — and exploded from the inside.
Rock debris rained down.
---
Mid-Battle — Comedy Moment
Meanwhile, Dorian fought a losing battle with his own golem.
Literally.
The golem grabbed his sword mid-swing — snapped it like a twig — and bitch-slapped Dorian across the hall.
SMACK!
The big swordsman flew 10 meters, hitting a pillar so hard it cracked.
Everyone froze for half a second.
Even the golems seemed to pause.
Lyra gasped dramatically.
"Oh my gods.
Dorian just lost a wrestling match to a pile of rocks."
Finn squeaked.
"I-I think he dislocated his pride."
From his collapsed position, Dorian wheezed:
"F*ck you guys.
At least the rock buys dinner first."
Lucian barked a sharp laugh even as he parried another blow.
"Focus! The stones have feelings too — hurt them!"
Dorian groaned but pushed himself up, fists glowing with raw mana.
No sword?
No problem.
Time for Stone Breaker Fist Art, bitches.
---
Finishing the Fight – Tactical Brutality
Lucian rallied the squad.
"Pin their movements!
Cripple the joints!
Then target the core!"
Together, they executed beautifully.
Mira's arrows pinned golems in place, targeting exposed circuits.
Lyra's slicing water spells severed limbs.
Finn's mana mines and quick healing spells kept injuries minimal.
Grim and Lucian tag-teamed the strongest golems, creating openings and shredding cores.
Within minutes —
Eight stone golems lay shattered across the floor.
Mana cores sparkled among the rubble.
A heavy, victorious silence settled.
---
[System 17]:
> **"Master:
Total Loot:
Golem Mana Core x8
Shard of Forgotten Stone (Artifact Material) x3
Stoneheart Rune (Rare).
Dungeon Threat Level Reduced: 7%."**
Lucian wiped sweat from his brow.
Grim sat proudly, licking one blood-stained paw.
The squad slumped to the ground, exhausted but grinning.
Finn flopped backward, panting.
"I think I used up all my mana… and my soul…"
Dorian coughed, massaging his bruised ribs.
"Was that just the welcoming committee?"
Lucian smiled grimly.
"That was just the door greeters."
Lyra moaned.
"Gods help us."
---
Exploration – Moving Deeper
After patching up injuries, they looted carefully.
Lucian distributed the mana cores — letting Mira, Dorian, Lyra, and Finn each keep one.
Officially.
Unofficially?
Lucian had Seventeen secretly absorb three extra cores into his private storage.
Hidden Storage:
3 Golem Mana Cores
1 Stoneheart Rune
Greed?
Maybe.
Survival instinct?
Absolutely.
Seventeen's Commentary:
> "Master:
No guilt necessary.
Weaklings feed the strong.
And you are destined to devour them all."
Lucian chuckled under his breath.
He loved this System.
---
Deeper inside, the ruins became colder.
The green fungi grew thicker.
Strange murals covered the cracked walls — depictions of battles between humans, beasts, and monstrous god-like creatures.
Mira muttered softly:
"Those... look like ancient Avatars."
Lucian studied them carefully.
He recognized some figures.
The Winged Beast.
The Lord of Chains.
The Silent One.
Entities even the gods feared.
This place wasn't just a dungeon.
It was a graveyard of ancient powers.
His heartbeat quickened.
---
Second Encounter – Mini-Boss
A new doorway appeared ahead — cracked but intact.
Finn's trap senses tingled violently.
"Trap," he whispered.
Lucian nodded.
"Everyone back."
Using a bone-dagger artifact, Lucian carefully probed the entrance.
Click.
The floor collapsed instantly, revealing a pit full of acid slimes.
Hundreds of writhing, semi-transparent blobs sloshed hungrily below.
Finn turned green.
"I-I think I peed a little."
Dorian backed away fast.
"F*ck no. Not dying to a jelly orgy."
Lucian snorted but agreed.
Taking another path around, they moved cautiously.
That's when the real threat struck.
A low rumble echoed.
From the shadows slithered a creature twice the size of a warhorse —
Obsidian Basilisk.
Jet-black scales.
Eyes glowing toxic green.
Deadly venom dripping from its fangs.
Its tail lashed out — smashing stone walls casually.
Mini-Boss: Obsidian Basilisk
Tier B- Beast
Abilities: Petrifying Gaze, Poison Breath, Acidic Blood.
---
Battle Plan
Lucian growled:
"Don't meet its eyes!
Blind fight!
Mira and Lyra, ranged pressure!
Dorian, flank left.
Finn, stay defensive.
Grim — with me!"
They moved instantly.
Lucian tossed dust into the air — clouding vision slightly to reduce direct gaze attacks.
Mira's arrows flew fast and furious, pinging off its thick scales.
Lyra's water whips harassed its legs, trying to trip it.
Dorian charged from the side, punching with mana-reinforced fists.
Lucian danced in front — weaving left and right, baiting its strikes.
Grim circled, slashing and distracting.
Every time the basilisk breathed toxic mist, Lyra countered with water shields to block it.
When the creature lunged —
Lucian used Bone Step to teleport above its head.
[Skill Upgrade Available: Bone Step Lv2!]
In mid-air, Lucian plunged his saber deep into the Basilisk's right eye.
The beast shrieked — thrashing wildly.
Black blood rained everywhere, sizzling on the ground.
Its acidic blood melted stone instantly.
Everyone dodged desperately.
Except Dorian.
Dorian slipped on slime — fell backward —
And the Basilisk's tail smashed him again.
SMACK!
Dorian flew into a wall, left dangling like a sack of potatoes.
"Motherfu—" bonk.
K.O.
Lucian almost laughed mid-fight.
Dorian's record: 0-2 against architecture.
---
Final Strike – Lucian's Victory
Lucian didn't waste the opening.
He summoned Grim with a loud whistle.
Grim leapt onto the basilisk's back, claws digging into the gaps between scales.
Using Grim as a stepping stone, Lucian boosted himself higher.
His saber gleamed with raw mana.
SLASH!
He severed the creature's spine at the neck base.
The Obsidian Basilisk spasmed — then collapsed with a heavy thud.
Dead.
---
[System 17]:
> **"Master:
Mini-Boss Eliminated.
Loot:
Basilisk Core (Tier B-)
Basilisk Fang x2
Obsidian Scale x7
Partial Bloodline Fragment (Basilisk)."**
Lucian landed gracefully.
The others slowly regrouped.
Finn healed Dorian (again).
Lyra patted Dorian's shoulder.
"You're our MVP," she said sweetly.
"M-Most Valuable Punched."
Everyone laughed.
Even Lucian.
Even here, inside death itself —
Their squad felt alive.
---
[Chapter 27 End]Chapter 28: Bloodlines and Hidden Paths
---
After the Basilisk Battle
The heavy corpse of the Obsidian Basilisk steamed in the cold dungeon air.
Lucian stood silently, breathing heavily, eyes locked on the loot window floating before him.
[System 17]:
> **"Master:
Loot Confirmed:
Basilisk Core (Tier B-)
Basilisk Fangs x2
Obsidian Scales x7
Partial Bloodline Fragment (Obsidian Basilisk)."**
His gaze lingered on the last item.
Bloodline Fragment.
Something inside him stirred.
A primal hunger.
Seventeen's voice whispered warmly:
> "Master... if absorbed, this fragment could grant you
minor physical resistance, venom affinity, and perhaps…
a future path toward monstrous evolution."
Lucian licked dry lips.
It wasn't just about power.
It was survival.
---
Decision
Lucian didn't hesitate.
"Seventeen," he ordered. "Initiate bloodline absorption."
[System 17]:
> **"Confirming Bloodline Integration.
Warning: Pain Intensity: Extreme.
Survival Rate: 84%.
Proceed?"**
Lucian smirked darkly.
"If it doesn't kill me, it makes me stronger."
> "Initiating..."
---
The Pain
It hit him like a tidal wave.
Fire raced through his veins.
His muscles locked.
His bones cracked and reshaped slightly.
He bit down on his lip hard enough to draw blood — refusing to scream.
In his mind's eye, visions flashed:
A basilisk slithering across burning lands.
Venom dripping from its fangs.
A roar that shattered stone.
His heart thundered wildly —
then calmed.
When the pain finally ebbed, he collapsed to one knee, gasping.
[System 17]:
> "Partial Bloodline Integrated:
Obsidian Basilisk (3% Purity)."
---
New Traits Gained:
Minor Venom Resistance (Passive)
Toxic Blood Mist (Active, Lv1)
Petrifying Gaze (locked until 15% Bloodline Purity)
---
Lucian flexed his fingers.
His nails gleamed slightly sharper.
He felt... heavier.
More dangerous.
He grinned.
Power tasted sweet.
---
Squad Reaction
The others rushed over.
Finn gawked.
"D-Did he just evolve?!"
Mira whistled low.
"Whatever you did, do it again."
Lyra looked half-awed, half-terrified.
"You're becoming less human by the day, Lucian."
Lucian just smiled lazily.
"Humanity is overrated."
Dorian — barely alive — croaked:
"Next time I wanna evolve, I'll just eat my feelings instead."
Everyone chuckled.
---
Treasure Discovery
After stabilizing, they looted the Basilisk's lair carefully.
Near the nest, hidden under loose stones, they found it:
A chained treasure chest, ancient and glowing faintly.
Finn's eyes lit up like a child seeing candy.
"That... that's a high-grade Dungeon Chest!"
Lucian inspected it.
Runes sealed it tightly.
"Seventeen?"
> [System 17]: "High-Level Containment Chest detected.
Requires Dungeon Key or equivalent artifact."
Lucian thought for a moment —
then remembered the Shard of Forgotten Stone he'd looted earlier.
Maybe—
He placed the shard into the keyhole.
CLICK.
The chest trembled.
Chains snapped away like broken snakes.
The lid creaked open.
Inside...
---
Treasure Acquired:
Whispercloak (Epic Artifact – Cloak of Stealth)
Ancient Beast Contract Scroll (1-use)
5,000 Dungeon Points (Auto-banked)
---
Lucian's hand shook slightly as he touched the cloak.
It shimmered in his fingers — a cloth woven of shadows and mist.
Seventeen buzzed excitedly:
> "Master:
Whispercloak grants
+40% Evasion, +60% Stealth,
and immunity to basic detection spells while active."
Lucian immediately equipped it.
The cloak wrapped around him like a living mist, his form flickering like a ghost.
He was now officially harder to kill.
And the Contract Scroll?
Lucian tucked it safely away.
Not yet.
When he found the right monster, he'd use it.
---
Hidden Passage Discovery
While exploring deeper, Grim growled low.
Lucian noticed small scratch marks on the wall — almost invisible.
A hidden mechanism.
Carefully, he pressed a cracked stone inward.
Rumble.
A hidden door slid open, revealing a narrow staircase spiraling downward into darkness.
Lyra whispered:
"Another floor?"
Finn gulped.
"Or a boss room."
Lucian grinned.
"Only one way to find out."
Dorian groaned.
"Why can't we ever find a tea room?"
Lucian led the way — his new cloak billowing behind him like a shadow king.
---
At the Bottom
The temperature plummeted.
The air felt thick, heavy with ancient mana.
Glowing runes illuminated a gigantic stone gate ahead — carved with battle scenes of titanic monsters.
And in the center?
A massive Blood Red Seal pulsed faintly.
Above the gate, ancient letters read:
> "Grave of the Warden of Chains.
Only those bathed in death may pass."
Lucian's blood sang.
Boss Gate.
Hidden Legacy Dungeon.
Seventeen spoke calmly:
> "Master.
Warning:
Minimum Recommended Party Level: C-Rank.
Estimated Danger: Severe."
Lucian smiled wider.
"Perfect."
---
[Chapter 28 End]
---Chapter 29: The Grave of the Warden
---
The Hidden Staircase
The air grew colder with every step downward.
Each breath Lucian took crystallized before his eyes.
The stone staircase spiraled endlessly, disappearing into the blackness.
Finn shivered behind him.
"I swear, if a ghost jumps out, I'm punching you first, Lucian."
Mira rolled her eyes.
"Grow a spine, Finn. You're embarrassing."
Lucian just smirked under his hooded cloak.
The Whispercloak almost made him one with the darkness.
---
The Gate
After what felt like forever, they arrived at the gigantic Blood-Sealed Gate.
Faint humming sounds vibrated through the stone, as if the door itself breathed.
Lucian stepped closer, studying the runes etched along its surface.
Seventeen's voice whispered inside his mind:
> [System 17]:
"Master,
This is an Ancient Blood Seal.
Requirement: Blood Sacrifice or Combat Initiation."
Lucian looked over his squad.
He clenched his fist — the Basilisk bloodline energy pulsing faintly inside him.
"No backing out now," he muttered.
With a sharp swipe of his dagger, he slashed his palm.
Blood splattered across the center of the gate.
THUMP.
The gate shuddered.
Stone mechanisms groaned awake.
Chains slithered and snapped apart.
Slowly, painfully slowly —
the heavy gate creaked open, revealing darkness beyond.
---
Inside the Dungeon
The moment they stepped in, a notification popped up:
> [Legacy Hidden Dungeon: Grave of the Warden of Chains]
Objectives:
Survive
Defeat the Warden
Unlock the Legacy of Chains
Warning: Death is permanent inside Legacy Dungeons. Resurrection disabled.
Everyone tensed immediately.
Mira clicked her tongue.
"No pressure."
Finn wiped his sweaty palms on his pants.
"Who even makes these dungeons? Sadists?"
Lucian chuckled.
"Focus.
We survive —
we get stronger."
---
The First Trial: Chains of the Fallen
The dungeon's interior was vast — like stepping into the bones of a forgotten world.
Rusty chains hung from massive stone pillars.
Shadows twisted between them.
Suddenly—
Clink. Clink.
Out of the mist, skeletal warriors appeared.
Each wore broken armor, and chains wrapped around their torsos and arms like grotesque jewelry.
Their eyes glowed with hollow red light.
Finn squeaked.
"Oh crap. Undead."
Lucian drew his blade.
"They're chained. They're slow. Stay mobile!"
Seventeen added calmly:
> [System 17]:
"Master,
Some undead possess chain magic.
Avoid getting entangled."
Too late.
One skeleton launched its chain like a snake —
aiming straight at Lucian's throat!
---
Battle Begins
Lucian dodged sideways, feeling the chain whistle past his ear.
Grim snarled and charged a skeleton, tearing it apart brutally.
Mira moved with blinding speed, cutting through two skeletons with swift, precise slashes.
Finn panicked, throwing random spells.
"Fireball! Lightning Spark! Water Jet! Shit—whatever works!"
Dorian, half-conscious but stubborn as always, used Earth Shield to block incoming chains.
Lucian focused, his new Toxic Blood Mist swirling around him like a defensive aura.
When a chain brushed his mist, it sizzled — the skeleton shrieking as the chain melted.
Lucian grinned savagely.
"My blood's toxic now, you bastards."
---
Clear!
After ten minutes of brutal combat, the floor was littered with shattered bones and melted chains.
Everyone panted heavily.
Lucian checked his System notifications:
> [Congratulations: 50 Undead Slain.]
[Loot Obtained:]
Chain Essence x12
Rusted Bone Sword x2
Broken Chain Armor x3
Warden's Lesser Key Fragment x1
---
The Next Room
Past the battlefield, a narrow hallway loomed.
Carved into the stone above the hallway entrance were the words:
> "Trial of Binding Will.
Those unworthy shall be chained for eternity."
Finn gulped.
"I don't like that phrasing."
Mira cracked her knuckles.
"Means we pass… or we stay here forever."
Lucian's eyes burned with determination.
"We're not dying here."
He took the lead —
his squad following closely behind.
---
Inside the Hall
Chains dangled from the ceilings, twitching like living serpents.
An oppressive energy pressed down on them, heavier with every step.
Seventeen buzzed inside Lucian's mind:
> "Master:
Mental Resistance Test Initiating.
Resist the Chains of Despair,
or be enslaved."
[Mental Resistance Check: 40% Success Rate Without Buffs.]
Lucian cursed mentally.
"We're not ready!"
Seventeen's solution flashed instantly:
> "God Shop Available."
Lucian opened it desperately.
Scrolling—
There.
[Minor Mental Resistance Potion: 500 Points.]
Without hesitation, he bought 5 potions, throwing one each to his squad.
"Drink. Now."
Everyone chugged.
The bitterness was unbearable — like swallowing burned tar mixed with old socks.
Dorian gagged dramatically.
"Tastes like demon armpits!"
Lucian ignored him.
The potions worked instantly.
The chains' twitching slowed —
their mental pressure lessened.
They pressed forward.
---
The Statue Room
At the center of the hallway stood a giant black stone statue:
A chained titan kneeling in eternal agony.
In its hand, it held a massive black key.
Finn pointed nervously.
"I'm guessing we need that."
Lucian nodded grimly.
"And I'm guessing it won't give it up easily."
Suddenly—
The statue's eyes flared red.
Chains snapped free.
The floor trembled violently.
Boss Battle: Warden's Fallen Will
(Elite Mini-Boss, Level 29)
---
To be continued...
---
[Chapter 29 End]---
Chapter 30: Battle Against the Warden's Fallen Will
---
The Awakening
The colossal statue's eyes burned like twin furnaces.
Lucian felt it —
an ancient rage, the wrath of something betrayed and broken.
CLANG!
Chains rattled and lashed out, alive with malevolence.
The Warden rose slowly, stone muscles grinding and cracking, towering three times Lucian's height.
Seventeen's voice echoed in Lucian's mind:
> [System 17]:
"Warning:
Warden's Fallen Will possesses:
Chain Manipulation (Advanced)
Petrify Gaze (Intermediate)
Crushing Grasp (Deadly)"
Lucian tightened his grip on his sword.
"This… is gonna hurt."
---
First Strike
Before anyone could react, the Warden struck.
A chain lashed toward Finn at terrifying speed.
CRACK!
Lucian tackled Finn aside — the chain missing by inches.
Finn cursed.
"I owe you one!"
"No," Lucian grinned grimly. "You owe me ten!"
---
The Plan
Mira didn't waste time.
"Split up!
Don't stay grouped — the chains can hit multiple targets at once!"
Lucian barked orders:
"Finn, keep spamming magic — no direct fights!
Mira, slice chains when they grab anyone!
Dorian, shield duty!
Grim — tear his legs apart!"
Grim roared and charged like a black bullet.
---
The Battle
Lucian circled the Warden, searching for openings.
Mira danced among the chains, her blades a blur.
Finn launched barrage after barrage of elemental attacks.
Dorian formed moving shields, blocking the most dangerous strikes.
Still—
The Warden was relentless.
One chain caught Mira's ankle, yanking her into the air.
Lucian reacted instantly — slashing the chain and catching her before she slammed into the stone.
She winked.
"Not bad, hero."
Lucian rolled his eyes.
"Flirt later. Fight now."
---
System Boost
Seventeen buzzed:
> [System 17]:
"Master, activate Domain Boost? +30% Agility, +20% Resistance (Duration: 5 minutes)?"
Lucian grinned.
"Do it."
[Domain Boost Activated!]
Power surged through him.
He blurred —
his speed exploding.
In an instant, Lucian was everywhere:
Cutting chains
Distracting the Warden
Creating precious openings
Finn gawked.
"Bro turned into goddamn lightning!"
---
Counterattack
Lucian aimed for the Warden's legs —
slashes filled with poison mist from his Toxic Bloodline.
The Warden roared — its legs beginning to corrode.
Chains thrashed wildly.
WHAM!
One slammed into Dorian's shield, cracking it like glass.
"Hold steady, Dorian!" Lucian shouted.
"I'm trying, man! This guy hits harder than your mom's chappal!"
Mira snorted mid-fight, nearly getting caught.
Lucian laughed breathlessly.
"If we die, it'll be because you can't keep your mouth shut!"
---
Second Phase
The Warden bellowed, its chains merging into massive, jagged spears.
Seventeen warned:
> [System 17]:
"Phase Two:
Chain Lance Formation.
Each hit can penetrate Tier 2 Armor."
Lucian cursed.
"New plan!
Stay low!
Aim for the chains at the base!"
Grim obeyed first — leaping and latching onto a chain.
CRUNCH!
Grim's jaws crushed the iron link.
The Warden staggered.
Lucian seized the chance.
He vaulted up Grim's back, leaping high into the air —
bringing his sword down in a devastating overhead slash onto the Warden's shoulder.
CLANG!
Cracks spiderwebbed across the stone armor.
The Warden howled.
---
The Killing Blow
Lucian yelled:
"Everyone! Aim for the cracks!"
Mira flashed forward — her twin blades slashing deep.
Finn poured lightning into the cracks.
The Warden writhed in agony.
Finally—
Lucian condensed every ounce of toxic mist around his blade.
With a battle cry that shook the hall,
he plunged the blade deep into the Warden's heart.
The statue froze.
Cracks split across its body.
Chains clattered to the ground like broken bones.
And then—
The Warden shattered.
---
Victory
> [System Notification:]
Boss Defeated: Warden's Fallen Will
EXP +7500
Loot Acquired:
Legacy Chain Fragment x1
Stoneheart Core (Rare) x1
Broken Titan's Key x1
Domain Growth: +3%
Skill Unlocked: Chain Bind (Basic)
---
The room brightened — a hidden passage opening behind the remains.
Lucian dropped to his knees, gasping for breath.
His friends gathered around, battered but alive.
Finn whooped.
"Holy crap, WE LIVED!"
Mira slumped down beside Lucian.
"That...
was way too close."
Dorian coughed.
"I think I peed a little."
Lucian just grinned weakly.
"Good. Means you still have a bladder."
Everyone burst out laughing.
Even Grim wagged his tail.
---
The Hidden Passage
After catching their breath, Lucian stood and faced the hidden tunnel.
Seventeen whispered:
> [System 17]:
"Master,
Ahead lies the true treasure —
the Legacy of the Chains."
Lucian's eyes gleamed.
A dangerous excitement stirred inside him.
"Let's go."
He led the way —
deeper into the forgotten grave of the Warden.
---
[Chapter 30 End]
---